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Preparations for the Royal…
Preparations for the Royal Visit. The Committees. Rhyl onMonday,at least that portion of it which our Royal visitors had to traverse, looked extremely smart in its trappings of coloured drapery, floral emblems, and all manner of decorative devices, which adorned the chosen streets from the Railway Station to the Hospital. They seldom, if ever, presented a more picturesque appearance, and it is only fair to add that those residents who were fortunate enough to have the show brought to their own doors, as it were, as well as those responsible for the public decorations, deserve credit for the results achieved, for it was the ruie, rather than the exception, for houses and business establishments adjacent to the route to be profusely decorated. The manner in which the route was looked after by those to whom the Executive Committee deputed the work also called for praise, no effort being spared by them to make sure that it was as fit for a Royal procession as lay in their power to make it so. Then again, one of the most satisfactory features of the day's proceedings were the police arrangements, much of the success of the day's function resting with! the duties of those entrusted with the regula- tion of traffic and the maintenance of order along the route. In fact, the entire arrangements were carried out in a sys- tematic manner, all concerned working with a determination that commanded success. One matter of anxiety in connection with the reception was the weather, the unsettled state of which-for many days had not been very inspiring. Towards the end of last week, however, old Sol returned again to his natural element, at once dispersing all unfavourable meterological symptoms. The fine weather experienced since Thursday last enabled good progress to be made with the outdoor prepara- tions, and better weather than that which prevailed at Rhyl on Monday could not have been desired, the sun shining with springlike brilliancy. The result was thousands of visitors flocked into Rhyl, andduting the progress of the Royal procession the route was densely lined, while every available window was occupied by sightseers eager to get a glimpse of the Prince and Princess. Credit where Credit is Due. Taking into consideration the eminently satisfactory manner in which everything passed off, it is only right that the names of those who have contributed to the success of Monday's function should be given as part of the record of proceedings connected with the visit of the Prince and Princess. When the gracious consent of their Royal Highnesses had been received to attend the opening ceremony at the Hospital, the Urban District Council promptly took up the question of according the Heir-Apparent and his Consort a fitting welcome. Committees were appointed, and from the date of the receipt of the Royal intimation up till the last moment there were active preparations for celebrating the event in which thousands on Monday took part. Mr H A Tilby (chairman of the Coun- cil) and Mr Arthur Rowlands (clerk) most ungrudgingly devoted time and energy to the numerous details, in their respective capacities as chairman and hon secretary of the Executive Committee, the members of which were equally loyal in their attention to the duties devolving upon them. Mention should also be made of the hearty co-operation of the Hospital authori- ties in the arrangements for the reception, the hon secretary, Mr R M Hugh Jones, especially being an indefatigable worker. The task of carrying out all the arrangements was supervised by the Executive Committee, which was constituted as follows :— EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.— Mr H. A. Tilby, (Chairman), Mr Arthur Rowlands (honorary secretary), All the Council, Dr Prichard, Messrs R. M. Hugh Jones, P. H. Chambres, The Vicar, Mr Elwy Williams, Rev. Hayward Browne,Capt. Hall, Major Webber, Messrs G. A. Taverner, W. J. P Storey, R. Rhydderch, R. LI. Jones, L. J. Roberts, W. Silvester, T. Jones (Cambrian House), H. A. Steer, J. Williams (photographer), A. A. Goodall, W. Hall, R. Hughes (Surveyor), W. A. Lewis, A. W. James J. Aidney, E. D. Evans, Ernest Jones, J. Talbott, D. Griffiths, Lewis Jones ("Journal" Office), J. I). Polkinghorne, P. J. Ashfield, F. Geary, Joshua Davies, R. Bromley, W. C. Bell, S. J. Amos, High Sheriff of Flintshire, H. P. Williams, A. Henkell, A. Rowlands, W. Parry, H. R. Holbeche, Mayor of Denbigh, Mayor of Flint, Mr J. A. V. Crockford, Dr Lloyd, Dr Goodwin, Dr H. Jones, and Dr Summerhill. A Reception Committee was also appointed as follows :— RECEPTION COMMITTEE.—Councillors A. L. Clews, S. Perks, F. J. Gamlin, H. A. Tilby, T. D. Jones, J. Frimston, A. Lewis Jones, D. Griffiths, T. Whitley, J. H Ellis, W. T. Girdlestone, J. W. Jones, Rt. Jones, Jos. A. Williams, J. Hughes, J. S. Greenhalgh, A. Maitby, Messrs A. Rowlands, Robt. Hughes, A. A. Goodall, R. J. Hughes, L. G. Hall, E, H. Wright, W. Parry, 28 Abbey Street; H. R. Hughes, Kinmel; Dr Lloyd, Lord Mostyn, Lord Bishop of St. Asaph. Sir Pyers Mostyn, Col. Mainwaring, Vicar of Rhyl, Rev. Hayward Browne, Messrs L. J. Roberts, Hugh-Jones, W. A. Lewis, R Bromley, W. C. Bell, R. LI. Jones, Major Webber, Dr Prichard, Colonel Howard, Col. J. Sheriff Roberts, John E. Bankes, Edmund Peel, W. J. P. Storey. Financial considerations, of course, entered largely into the question, and as money had to be forthcoming if proceedings were to be carried out in a proper manner, a Finance Committee was formed for the purpose of undertaking the duties of soliciting subscriptions, those who acted in this capacity being :— FIXAXCE COMMITTEE.—Messrs. S. Perks, M. A. Ralli, A. L. Clews, J03. Davies, J. H. Ellis, C. D. Copley, W. Elwy Williams, J. Foulkes, G. A. Taverner, A. Rowlands, and J. W. Jones (hon. sec.). Also, in order that in the multiplicity of details needing the superintendence of the Executive Committee, no items, however minute,should be overlooked,another committee was deemed necessary, and that committee was responsible for the gay appearance of the streets, namely, the Decoration Committee, represented as follows DECOllATIO COMMITTEE.—Messrs. H. A. Steer (Chairman), P. J. Ashfield (honorary secretary), D. Trehearn, J. Talbott, T. Jones (Cambrian House), T. Whitley, D. Griffiths, W. Elwy Williams, F. Geary, A. Sheffield, J. Williams (photographer), A. A. Goodall Surveyor,A. Henkel,and A. Rowlands.
The Decorations : A Gay Display.
The Decorations A Gay Display. The decorations, which were not completed until just before the arrival of the Prince and Princess of Wales, gave the town a thorough holiday appearance, the route of the Royal procession being literally a blaze of colour, and after the departure of our Royal visitors affording pleasure to crowds of sightseers. The public decorations were entrus- ted to the City of London Fireworks and Public Decoration Company, a firm which also had the order for the public decorations at Carnarvon in honour of the Royal visit there last week, and under the superintendence of Messrs Fowler and Jolliffe, the work was creditably carried out. As early as Wednesday last operations for the erection of the masts alcng the route were commenced, but it was not until Saturday that the route assumed a really festive air, the progress of the work exciting the liveliest interest amongst .all classes. Mr Sheffield is the local agent of the arm. From the Station to the Hospital. Suspended from rows of Venetian masts, with square columns alternating, which extended the entire length of the Royal route, the myriads of flags and streamer imparted a rich glow of colour to the streets. The slender masts were gracefully draped in red, while their more sturdy, if by comparison diminutive, neighbours were clad in blue with smart facings of red. Starting with the Station yard, it was to be noticed that the masts used here were surmounted by ordinary gilt tops and flying bannerettes. A floral arch, beneath which was hung a banner bearing the words" A Hearty Welcome to Rhyl," a basket of flowers hanging therefrom was the main feature at the junction with High Street, and certainly as our Royal visitors beheld it on emerging from the Station approach it must have filled them with pleasurable anticipations as to the remainder of the route. Fluttering pennons of all colours were hung in curves from pole to pole, and also arranged here and there so as to form a sort of overhead net- work, while the streamers and festoons of artificial flowers running alongside for some length considerably heightened the effect. At the junction of the Station approach with High St. there was a tasteful arrangement of crown- topped masts springing from pedestals. The pedestals were garnished with flowering and foliage plants, and trophies of flags adorned the columns. From the beginning of High Street to the junction with Wellington and Russell Roads were lines of streamers from the Venetian masts on either side, with artificial floral festoons gracefully drooping until they reached the blue columns. Along this section these latter were elaborately treated with floral wreaths, shields, and trophies of flags, and were surmounted alternately by plants and gilt ram- pant lions, which had a very wideawake ap- pearance; while the Venetian masts were topped with crowns and bannerettes. The great feature of the High Street decorations was the triumphal arch at the junction of Wellington and Russell Roads. From the twelve masts (three at each corner) were hung in artistic profusion pennons and floral festoons, and emblazoned on three conspicuous shields over- hanging the road were the words Our Prince George," a motto, "God bless Him" being suspended from the centre of the arch. The poles which bore the weight of all this were freely embellished with trophies of flags, &c. The pedestals at the four corners were richly adorned with pot plants, flowers and foliage. Floral festoons and streaming pen- nons again lined the street as far as the East Parade, the masts for this length being crowned with flags. A charming floral canopy graced the junction of High Street with the Parade, the masts here being headed with crowns supplemented by bannerettes and trophies. The pedestals, again coming into use at the corners, afforded admirable ground-work for displays of evergreens, pot plants, Ac. In the centre, from which the festoons were grace- fully suspended, was a prettily arranged basket of flowers. The fountain, which faces High Street, had also come in for a share of attention, the sombre every-day appearance of the stone- work being relieved for once by a bright dis- play of flags (in trophies) and floral festoons, with a flag waving proudly over the summit. The decorations along the Parade as far as the Hospital comprised lines of pennons across the road suspended from the electric light standards and the intervening masts. The whole of the route presented a picture which did the town credit, the arrangements of the masts and column", the interesting lines of streamers, the gay archways at the junctions of different thoroughfares, besides many other pleasing features in the general design, all combining to give the route a thorough artistic appearance. Decorations at the Hospital. In front of the Hospital another floral arch was reared; as well as a boldly-lettered double banner bearing the words Welcome to our Prince and Princess." The central mast only was surmounted by a crown, the others being adorned with trophies of flags, garlands of flowers, &c., while the three pedestals, covered in the first place with blue, were almost obscured by plants, of which there was a very fine dis- plays. Baskets of flowers, mottos, and streamers were also largely used,a capital effect beinir secured. In the Hospital grounds was displayed a monster silk banner bearing the Welsh dragon and surrounded by evergreens. No attempt was made to decorate the interiùrof theHospital,indeed it would have been pity to obscure in any way any of the perma- nent features of the handsome buildings, seeing that the workmanship is of the finest descrip- tion. We have omitted to state before that the grounds in which the Hospital stands are enclosed by a red brick wall with stone facings, with a double entrance and carriage drive in front of the administrative block, also a carriage entrance to the ward block in Alex- andra Road. The massive stone porch which commands the entrance to the administrative block is adorned with two coats of arms, namely, Queen Alexandra's and the Dukes of Westminster's, the former being on the right as one enters, and the latter on the left. A winding flight of steps leads from the porch to a magnificent hall, which communicates directly with the chapel and othei parts of the extensive range of buildings, the Secretary's office being immediately to the right on entering. The marquee in which the speeches were made at the opening ceremony was supplied by Mr E R Clarke, of Stoke-on Trent. It was situated on the plot of land which it is hoped will be-utilised in the near future for the con- valescent block needed to complete the institu- tion, and was capable of accommodating about a thousand persons. A platform was erected at the lower end, this being covered with crimson baize, and the back with red, white and blue material, and edged with festoons of the Coronation colours. The front of the platform was similarly treated, and a flight of steps leading to it also covered with crimson baize. All around the eaves of the marquee on the inside were displayed the Coronation colours, and fes- toons of streamers relieve the bareness of the canvas covering. Station Decorations. The arrangements at the Railway Station were under the superintendence of Mr Dawson, the London and North Western Railway Company's engineer, a large staff of men speedily effecting a. transformation scene in the morning within the Station premises. The walls around the car- riage exit were draped with red, white, and blue bunting, this being relieved with shields bearing the arms of many nationalities -compris- ing the British Empire. The columns support- ing the roof were similarly treated, with the addition of a yellow fringe which encircled them. Over the entrance, with a shield hearing the Prince of Wales Feathers as a centre piece, was a fine trophy of flags. The platform Was covered with crimson baize, and the verandah over the main entrance from Bodfor Street was adorned with another trophy of flags, while evergreens skirted thebase of the walls inside and cut, and multitudinous flags fluttered gaily in the breeze in the yard. Private Decorations. The residents of High Street and the East Parade were by no means slo-v to testify in a prllctical manner to the pleasure felt that the Prince and Princess were to pass by their doors on their way to the Hospital, and the result wa-i that this route afforded « striking contrast to the utter destitution of Bodfor Street, (llen Street, and other narts of the town In the matter of decorations. This was due no rfoub' to the decisiun of a majority of the Committee which had the arrangement of the route that it should be liinite i to Hih Street and the Parade. We btl eve that not a house along the route failed to pro- duce some outward sign of loyalty, and in many instances the decorations were on an elaborate scale. The Alexfllldra Hotel was the first »1 ong t ;e route tv COIll- mand attenti r. Here a motto, Welcome to our Prince and Princess," was shown, and the whole Irontage was tastefully decked out with the national c Jours and a pro- fusion of evergreens and flags. All along Street competition amongst the tradespeople and others was also manifes eel as to whose should he the best display, and particularly where the verandahs ren- (lered it possible to make a more than usualh good how was this noticeable. The evergreens, of which there was an unlimited supply, combined with the bunticg, tec, to impart a cheery freshness to the scene, while mottos and pictures surrounded with foliage added greatly to the attractions for sightseers. A t on point a tine co onred picture of the Prince and Pnlcess framed in laurels was exhibited, shields beari"g the red dragon of Wales and the Royal arms being dispayed on either sIde; and at Mr Henkel's, Russell Koad, ti'e dragon again was in evidence amongst the decorations. On the left baud side of the street, beyond Wellington Road, were, perhaps the JUo>t effective private decorations, the premises of Mr Thos. Jones (Cambrian Housei, Mr Fell, and Mr P .t Ashfield especially being deserving of notice. Along the Parade some capital effects in the matter of artistic decorations were to be observed, the private residents as well as the hotel keepers doing their best to contribute to a thorol1!hly successful exhibition and oue worthy of a Royal visit. The Westminster Hotel, the Marlborough Boarding Establishment, the Grosvenor, and Plastirion Terrace all looked exceedingly smart in their drapings of bunting, streaming pennons and other pleasing devices such trophies of flags, mo tos, &c. The entrance to the Pier must also be included in our brief survey, the adorn- ments here comprising a circle of pennons aro.und the site of the Pavilion wlvch usfd to stand at the entrance, with flags and evergreens at the entrance gates. Though we have not the space to enlarge further or individually on the efforts of our townspeope in their private capaci- ties, the dec .rations on the whole must be voted as decidedly creditable to all who had a hand in them, the best use evidently having been made of the materjal. availab e for giving the route a thoroughly festive appear- ance.
MONDAY'S PROCEEDINGS.
MONDAY'S PROCEEDINGS. The Prince and Princess Enthusiastically Welcomed. Presentation of an Address from the Council. Speeches at the Hospital by the I Prince, Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Sir William Mitchell Banks, and Sir James Sawyer. Presentation of Pu rses. The Prince and Princess of Wales will always be associated in the minds of the people of Rhyl with one of the pleasantest and most memorable public ceremonies which has taken place in this town. Monday was not the first time the inhabitants of Rhyl had been privileged to extend a greeting to the bearer of the historic title of Prince of Wales—a title which possesses special local interest inasmuch as it was first proclaimed over six centuries ago at the ancient Castle of Rhuddlan, which is onlyabout three miles from Rhyl—but it was the first occasion on which the present holder of that title and his Consort, who as Princess May endeared herself long ago to the hearts of the people of this country, had been welcomed within the precincts of this favoured seaside resort. It is a distinction for any town to be able to share in and to be associated with the traditions of the Royal Family, and this week we have for the second time enjoyed the high favour of welcoming the Heir to the throne of England. When the Prince and Princess left Yaynol House, Bangor, where, during their visit to North Wales they were the guests of Mr and Mrs Assheton Smith, rain was falling heavily, but the sky had cleared, and the sun was shining brilliantly before the train had pro- ceeded far on its journey, and when it drew up alongside the platform at Rhyl station the weather was ideal. Their Royal High- nesses were timed to arrive from Bangor at 12.20 p.m., by which time thousands of holiday makers had lined the streets from the Station approach to the Hospital, having a long time before taken up the most advantageous posi- tions they could secure, and patiently kept them for fear they might be usurped by others. The members of the Rhyl Urban District Council and Reception Committee met just before noon at the Town Hall, and proceeded in carriages to the Station, where also the Lord Lieutenant of Flintshire (Mr Hughes, of Kinmel) was in waiting with the carriages for the Royal party. The arrival of the Royal train was the signal for the merry pealing of church bells and exultant cheering from the lines of men, women, and children, who were kept in order by a body of the National Fire Brigades t T nion and detachments of police from Flintshire and the neighbouring counties. Inspector Pearson, it should be stated, had charge of the whole of the police arrangements, and his disposition of men reflected the greatest credit upon his judgment. Their Royal Highnesses, on detraining, re- ceived a cordial welcome from the Council, the Reception Committee, and a large number of ladies and gentlemen privileged to witness their arrival, including, not only the Lord Lieutenant and Lady Florentia Hughes, the Bishop of St Asaph (Dr Edwards), and the High Sheriff of Flintshire (Sir Wyndham Hanmer), but also Colonel Mainwaring (com- manding the 23rd Regimental District), Colonel Wynne Edwards (commanding the 1st Y.B. Royal Welsh Fusiliers), and Colonel Sheriff Roberts (commanding the 2nd V.B. Royal Welsh Fusiliers), and many representa- tives of the county families. The Prince and Princess, who were attended by Sir Arthur Bigge (Private Secretary), Sir William Carring- ton (Comptroller of the Prince's Household), 1 Lady Mary Lygon (Lady in Waiting), and Sir Charles Cust (Equerry in Waiting), were re- ceived on the platform by the Lord Lieutenant, who than presented the Bishop of St Asaph, the High Sheriff of Flintshire, and the Chairman of the Council (Mr H A Tilby), representing the Council and the Reception Committee. A loyal address of welcome was then pre- sented to their Royal Highnesses by Mr Tilby. This was in album form, splendidly illumina- ted, and supplied by Mr D Trehearn, and the address was as follows :— To Their Royal Highnesses The, Prince and Princes* oj Wale*. May it please your Royal Highnesses,— We, The Rhyl Urban District Council, as representing the inhabitants of Rhyl, desire to express our unbounded pleasure in having the honour of welcoming your] Royal Highnesses on your visit to the town. We do so with true loyalty and affection, and pray that your lives may long be spared in the best interests of the nation, and always under the Divine blessing, guidance, and protection. We view with peculiar satisfaction the fact that the object of this memorable visit, is to open an Institution which has been the means of doing incalculable good, for many years, under the distinguished patronage of the universally beloved Queen Alexandra, whose good name it bears—also, the fact that the foundation stone of the present buildings was laid by the hand of her Most Gracious Majesty. It is, again,; a source of much-gratification to us that your Royal Highnesses are at this moment almost within sight of the ancient Castle of Rhuddlan, where the title of Prince of Wales was originated and first proclaimed, by your great ancestor King Edward I. Wishing your Royal Highnesses' and Family every happiness, We remain with the greatest respect, Your Royal Highnesses most obedient Servants, Given under our Common Seal, H. A. TTT.BY, Chairman. J. W. JONKS, Chairman of Finance Com. ARTHUR Rowr.Axns, Clerk to the Council. The Prince replied as follows :—Gentlemen The Princess and I are greatly touched by the words with which we are welcomed to Rhyl by the Urban District Council, as representing its inhabitants. We are much pleased to pause here on our journey in order to assist in the inauguration of the new buildings of the Hospital, which bears the name of my dear mother, and the first stone of which was laid by her. I know with what satisfaction she will hear of the completion of the work. It is interesting to know that 1 receive this address within sight of a spot so closely connected with the history of the ancient title which I am proud to bear. The Procession. This ceremony over, the Royal party moved t) their carriages in the Station Yard, and on being conveyed from the station they were accorded a Royal salute by a company of the of the 1st V.B. Royal Welsh Fusiliers, who formed a guard of honour under the command of Captain Bell. As the party passed through the Station yate the band of the 1st V.B. Royal Welsh Fusiliers played the National Anthem. The procession was then formed, with the Chief Constable of Flintshire (Major Webber) on horseback at the head, who led the party along High Street and the East Parade to the Royal Alexandra Hospital. The order of procession was as follows :— Chief Constable of Flintshire on horseback. First carriage, containing H.R.H. the Prince of Wales, K.G., H.R.H. the Princess of Wales, and the Lord Lieutenant of Flintshire. Second carriage—the Lady Florentia Hughes, Lady Mary Lygon, Sir Arthur Bigge, and Sir Charles Cust. On either side the Royal carriages there was a detachment of mounted police. carriage—The Bishop of St Asaph, and the High Sheriff. Fourth carriage—Mr J. H. Lewis, M.P., Mr W. Davies (Chairman of t.he Flintshire County Council), Mr R. LI. Jones (Chairman ot the St. Asaph Board of Guardians), Mr L. J. Roberts) H.M.I, of Schools). Fifth carriage—Mr Thos. W. Hughes (Mayor of Flint), Mr A. 0. Evans (Mayor of Denbigh), Mr Henry Taylor (Town Clerk of Flint), Mr J. Parry Jones (Town Clerk of Denbigh). Sixth carrirge—Mr Lambert, (Chairman of Hoiy- well Urban District Council), Rev B. Hayward Browne, Dr Moreton Prichard, Mr W. A. Lewis. Then followed other carriages, containing the members and officials of the Council. The Firemen (Members of the National Fire Brigades' Union) lined the streets at thejStation and from there as far as Market Street. They numbered upwards of 150, and amongst them were drafts from the following towns:- Abergele 11 members, Beaumaris 10, Bod- rhyddan 10, Colwyn Bay 8, Con way 9, Denbigh 9, Dolgelley Llandudno 7, Menai Bridge 9, Mold 13, Mostyn Hall 6, Queensferry 6, Pres- tatyn 10, Rhyl 12, Sandycroft 6, Wrexham 10. Others were also present from Bangor, Llan- gollen, Ruthin, &c. The arrangements for the brigadiers were in the hands of Mr W. Conwy Bell (Chairman of the North Wales District) and Mr J. O. Hughes (Hon. Sec- retary), both of whom are members of the Bodrhyddan Brigade. Policemen to the number of about 200 were also stationed at intervals along the route. A pleasing incident along the route was the fanfare of trumpets by Messrs Adeler and Sutton's Pierrots, who have been engaged to give performances on the Pier during the season. The whole troupe in full costume were accommodated in a brake near the entrance of the Pier, and as the Royal carriages rounded the High Street corner of the Promenade a herald was sounded by the Pierrots, all hats being lifted as their Royal Highnesses passed by. Arrival at the Hospital. On the arrival of the Royal party at the Hospital, a detachment of the 2nd Y.B. Royal Welch Fusiliers under the command of Captain Keene foimed the Guard of Honour. After having been received by the Vice-Presi- dent of the Institution (the Bishop of St Asaph) and the Committee, their Royal Highnesses inspected the buildings, being conducted over them by the Bishop of St Asaph and Mr R M Hugh-Jones. An adjournment was then made to the marquee erected adjacent to the new Westminster block, the entrance of the Prince and Princess being the signal for another great ovation. The following were presented to the Prince and Princess immediately on their entrance :-1 Miss Vizard, The Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Sir James Sawyer, representing the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Sir W. Mitchell Banks, Col. Mesham, Lord Mostyn, Mr Girdlestone, Dr Eyton Lloyd, Mr Perks, Captain Williamt Wynn, Mr Hugh Jones, Mr Paul Waterhouse. The marque was crowded, and tke interval of waiting was pleasantly whiled away with selections of music by Miss Jenny Parry, harpist, of 78 Granby Street, Liverpool who was actired in Welsh costume. Miss Parry who is a native of North Wales, gave her ser- vices free on this occasion, and she often plays at the National Eisteddfod. All rose when the Prince and Princess entered, and their Royal Highesses were heartily received. They took their seats on the platform on the right and left ofjthe Bishop of St. Asaph, who presided. As their Royal Highnesses reached the platform, a charming bouquet consisting of pink rjses, lilies of the valley, and sprays of choice ferns, was presented to the Princess by Miss Blanche Edwards, daughter of the Bishop of St. Asaph. Letters of aegret were read from the Duke and Duchess of Westminster, Lady Tait (who enclosed a cheque for 10 guineas), Sir J. E. Houlder, Birmingham (who enclosed a cheque for 100 guineas), Mr Samuel Smith, 1\.P., and the Countess of Dundonald. The Bishop of St Asapb, prior to calling upon Sir William Mitchell Banks to speak. said he had to express regret at the absence of the Duke of Westminster, the President of the Hospital. Continuing, his lordship said: 11 desire on behalf of all here, and of those in this ] district, to offer our most respectful and I warmest welcome to your Royal Highnesses on the occasion of your first visit to Rhyl (cheers). We rejoice as Welsh people to think that on this your Royal Highness's first visit to this town that it is in connection with the opening of an institution in which our' beloved King and Queen some years ago took so important a part (cheers). Sir Mitchell Banks, honorary consulting surgeon to the Hospital, to address the assembly. He was received with loud cheers, and said :—Your Royal Highnesses, My Lord Bishop, My Lords, Ladies and Gentlemen,— It is now nearly nine years since the august lady, who is now our beloved Queen, laid the foundation stone of the present Hospital, of which she has been the Patron, and which has borne her name for twenty years. The presence of your Royal Highnesses here to-day to open it will give pleasure to every Welshman, and there are no hearts that beat more true and loyal to Crown and Constitution than those of the men of the Principality. Her Majesty the Queen, when Princess of Wales, laid the founda- tion stone of this institution on another site from that occupied by the present building. But a variety of causes brought it about that a change of site was determined upon, and so we find our- selves here with room for the patients to enjoy an out-door life, and with ample space for future extension should such in the fulness of time become necessary. The Foundation Stone has been carefully removed and inserted in the present building. A want of room for growth has cripplied the power of many a splendid I institution. I have in my mind's eye a great London hospital, which, either from lack of prescience or lack of funds, did not in its early history obtain a foot of ground outside its walls. Not long ago it became possessed of funds, but now it has no more room to build on, and any additions that have been made by building up to the heavens on the top of the old edifice. Such additions are never satisfactory, and are usually most expensive. If our original site had been maintained, such indubitably would have been our fate at some future day, when the ever-increasing demand for fresh air and sun- light—nature's best cures for many diseases— will without doubt necessitate an extension even of the present, though still unfinished scheme. I feel certain that your Royal Highnesses must have noticed the beauty of the exterior of the building, with its ^numerous verandahs, where patients at any period of the day can enjoy a genial climate, while defended from the wind and cold. As regards its interior, there is not a single point from the planning of the floor and ceiling and walls of a great ward down to the fixing of a basin tap which has not been carefully—I might almost say lovingly—• dwelt upon, so that it should reflect the best and latest form of sanitary knowledge. At first sight it may appear as if an unnecessary amount of money had been spent upon this beautiful building and that a plain structure with just the bare necessaries would have been enough. This is the expression of the grovelling, utilitarian spirit which characterized the first half of last century. Utilitarian it might be, but humanitarian it was not. This was not the spirit in which our ancestors of old built those cathedrals and parish churches and colleges and halls, which "are the glory of our land and which, having defied the assaults of centuries, remain to this day not merely fitted for the purposes for which they were intended, but a delight to every educated mind. The men who have built this Hospital have built it to last and to be, while it lasts, not merely a building to suit its purpose but a joy for ever to these who will have to live in it and to work in it. Knowing the many good and charitable works which your Royal Highnesses have done and assisted at, I fed convinced, whatever may be the alleged decad- ence and degeneracy of the present race of men, that man's humanity to man never stood higher in the history of the word. There were once four words that were words of terror to the poor, the madhouse, the jail, the workhouse and the hospital. For the floggings, and chains and strait waistcoats and padded cells of the madhouse, we have exchanged the gentle and cheerful rule of the asylum. The jail where once the cruel law that kills, meted our nothing but demoralising punishment, is made a place where the criminal may be reformed. For the workhouse of bumble and the test yard, whese the aged, but decent poor have been condemned to herd with the drunken and dissolute, we shall ere long have Homes of Rest, to enter which at life's weary close will involve no degradation. As to the hospital, even I can remember it with its low windows,its deal floor and its Sarah Gamp nurses. Only those who are acquainted with now and fifty years ago can realise the change. The patients for the most part who come here do not want any serious surgical opera- tions or elaborate treatment. They want re- storation from the deadly debility that follows after acute disease or springs from weary toil in mill or factory. Light and sweet air and cheerful surroundings and bright kindly nursing are what they require, and here they will get them. Can any generous-minded man refuse to help in such a cause ? I vow not. So I feel certain that this hospital will before long be completed and freed from debt, and that it will remain for generations to come a blessing to the poor and a memento of two Princesses of Wales (applause). Ringing cheers greeted the rising of the Prince of Wales, who addressed the crowded assembly as follows :—My Lords, Ladies and Gentlemen,—The Princess and I are much pleased to have been able to break our journey to-day in order to formally open this Hospital, which bears the name of my dear mother(hear, hear, and applause). I should like to congratu- late the institution on the excellent work which it has accomplished during the 30 years of its existense. Its benefits and its blessings have spread far beyond its more immediate locality. They have been carried to those vast popula- tions in the industrial districts of the Midland counties, whose people have been attracted not only by the well-known reputation uf theHospi- tal, but also by the fine, healthy, and bracing air of Rhyl (hear, hear and applause). We know that through the munificence of the late Duke of Westminster and others these buildings have been enlarged, but it is upon the liberality of the public that the maintenance and adminis- tration of the Hospital depend, and will depend. Much has yet to be accomplished to meet the over-growing demands upon this charity, and I trust that. as the field of its labours extends there may be a corresponding expansion of area from which liberal and adequate financial support will be forthcoming (hear, hear). It has given the Princess and myself the greatest possible pleasure to have been able to visit the Hospital, as we have just done, and I can only say in addition that we were delighted with everything we saw. I am sure, from what we saw, that everything that is needed to meet the requirements of Hospital work of these modern days has been done in that Hospital (applause). 1 have now pleasure in declaring open the Royal Alexandra Hospital (cheers). This was followed by the playing of God bless the Prince of Wales by the Regimental Band under the leadership of Bandmaster Griffiths. Presenting the Purses. The Princess of Wales, at the close of this item, received purses on behalf of the Hospital. The children (over 100) making the presenta- tions were all drawn up in front of the platform and at the opening bars of "God Bless the Prince of Wales they were led forward on to the platform by Miss Victoria Hanmer (daughter of the High Sheriff) and Miss Williams Wynn (daughter of Sir Watkin Wynn). The purses were of white satin, inscribed as follows "PrcHentüd to II. R.H. the Princess of Wales for the Royal Alexandra Hospital, May 12, 1902", and were deposited on a silver tray, the girls curtseying and the boys saluting in a very graceful manner. £ s. d. Arnold, Elsie Gwen 6 0 0 Arnold, Frederic Marshall 6 0 0j Ashdown, Ruth 10 19 0 Archdale, Angel 5 0 0 Blencathra, Rhyl Blencathra Purse Baker, Gladys 5 1 0 Bryant, Joan Pym, Ethel o i) 0 Stewart, Violet. 0 0 Blezard, Phyllis 5 0 0 Biezard, Winifred 5 0 0 Buddicom, Yenetia .550 Beech, Gladys 5 0 0 Bromley, Hugh 5 0 0 Bromley, Jack 5 0 0 Banks, Minnie 5 0 0 Browne, Dorothy Hayward 5 0 0 Barry, Ethel Coilis 5 0 0 Bell, Eileen Marian Conwy 5 5 0 Bibby, Noello Hartley 5 0 0 Bailey, Samuel .5 0 0 Congreve, Mary .5 0 0 Curtis, Victoria Margaret 11 3 0 Curtis, Belline Ariana 11 2 0 Campbell, Colina 5 0 0 Crockford, Gwendoline (2 purses of £ 5 each) 10 0 0 Crockford, Winifred 10 5 0 Chambres, Madeline 15 0 0 Davies, Gladys 7 8 0 Davies, Joshua Alex 5 0 0 Davies, Evelyn 7 10 0 Drew, Dorothy (3 0 0 Dickson, Vera o 10 0 Elwy Hall, Rhyl Ilervs Ell 10 tt 5 0 0 Gertrude Francis 5 0 0 Gironwy Roberts .5 0 0 Fanny Sutton .5 0 0 Ellis, Philip Gregson 5 0 0 Ellis, Maud 8 0 0 Evans, Morgan Paget 5 0 0 Frost, James Garrett, jun. 5 5 0 Fidler, Charlotte 7 10 0 Gamlin, Alec .5 0 0 Gill-Anderton, Marie 15 0 0 Greenstreet, Ruth 12 12 0 Hanmer, Victoria 20 0 0 Hampton, Rebe 8 10 0 Harding, Stephen Hassal, Alexander Burton 5 10 0 Hartley, Cicely 6 3 () Hartley. Geoffrey .5 0 0 Hayes, Phyllis 12 2 4 Hutton, Maurice 5 8 0 Heywood, Hugh Tempriere 5 1(5 7 Heywood, Maude Tempriere 5 0 0 Hu^h-Jones, Dorothy. 5 0 0 Harding, Hilda May 6 14 6 Harston, Kenneth 5 0 0 Hughes, Kathleen"Allington 5 0 0 Jelf-Revelev, G. M. 5 0 0 Jones, May Llewelyn 5 5 0 Jones, Walter Laurence, Nelly Lavender, Ada 5 0 0 Lewis, .:Kaney 5 5 0 Lloyd, John Wathen Eyton- 30 0 0 Meldrum, Enid Rose .5 0 0 Mostyn, Hon Gwynedcl 7 2 0 Mostyn, Pyers Charles 5 0 0 Morris, Gwen 5 0 0 Mansell, Marjorie .7 2 0 May Queen (Avis Bostock) 5 5 0 Maid of Honour (Agnes Greenhalgh) 5 1 (5 Maid of Honour (Laura Grosvenor) 5 0 (i Ex-May Queen (Hilda Edge) 5 0 0 Norman Gladys, on behalf of the Rhyl National Schools 5 (j 3 Purcell, Leila 5 0 0 Phillips, Gwenllian Margaret 9 0 0 l-talli, Sonia 5 8 0 Roberts, Mary .5 5 0 Swaync, Roderic 5 0 0 Sunnnerhill, Olive Grace 5 0 0 Summerhill, Violet Dora Alice 7 12 0 Sutcliffe, Howard .5 0 0 Shepherd, Margaretta, on behalf of St. Mary's Catholic Schools, Rhyl 5 0 0 St. Oswald's, Rhyl Ethel Lawford .5 0 0 Hetty McFie .5 2 0 Marjorie Hutchinson 5 0 0 Florence Shaw .5 0 0 Muriel Rees 5 0 0 Tallents, Frank 6 9 6 Tumour, Arthur 5 0 Tumour, Keith Thompson, Gladys 7 1(5 (i Thomas, Vera 6 11 (j Vinning, Ruby 7 10 6 Williams-Wynn, Constance Mary Williams, Dorothy 5 5 0 Williams, Dorothy 6 12 0 Williams, Morfydd Helena t; 15 <i Watling, Hugh 5 17 6 Wood, Gwladys i) 0 0 Walton, Willie .550 Walton, Vera .5 5 0 Williams, Dorothy Vera 7 0 0 Winterburn, Dorothy \Voodall, Hilda 10 9 (i Yeomans, Laddie .9 0 0 It was noticed that one little girl who gave two purses, finding that the Princess only took one, passed on to flicipriiiee, curtsied, and presented to him the purse. His Royal High- ness smilingly took it with a "Thank you, and placed it on the tray, with a laughing re- mark to the Bishop who was near him. There were four children who presented purses to the Princess of Wales in the wards, because they were unable to leave their beds. These patients came from the four counties of Berkshire, Shropshire, Stafford- shire, and Cheshire, thus showing the wide- spread connection of the Hospital. Votes of Thanks. The Lord Mayor of Liverpool afterwards rose to propose a vote of thanks to their Royal Highnesses,—to the Prince for having declared the Hospital open, and to the Princess for having so graciously received the purses. Continuing, he said We hope the contents ot those purses were such as will add materially to the funds of this institution. What I would like to impress upon all present to-day is that whereas a great number of children come from all over England, I am sorry to think that the English people do not subscribe to the funds of the Hospital in proportion. As Lord Mayor of Liverpool, as representing the population of Liverpool, which has sometimes been called the capital of Wales on account of, I suppose, its close proximity to the Principality, I wish the I people of Liverpool to bear this in mind, and I trust that other great industrial centres will do likewise. (Applause). I feel sure the hospital only requires to be known better to the people of Lancashire and to other counties in order tu get them to subscribe more liberally (applause). In conclusion I have the greatest pleasure in proposing this vote of thanks, which has been entrusted to me. Sir James Sawyer, M.D., F:R.C.P., repre- senting the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, seconded the motion in the following terms :— My Lord Bishop, may it please your Royal Highnesses, My Lords, Ladies and Gentlemen, —I beg leave to second, and I do so with the utmost and most dutiful respect towards their Royal Highnesses the Prince and Princess of Wales, the vote of thanks to them, which has been so gracefully moved by the Lord Mayor of Liverpool. I have the honour to be here in a representative capacity, which is a dual one. The authorities who have so well arranged the auspicious ceremony in which we are engaged to-day invited the Lord Mayor of Birmingham to take an official part in these proceedings to second the vote of grateful ac- knowledgement which we are now offering to our most august visitors. He is just now recovering from a long and severe illness, and although his lordship's health is happily re-established, he finds Ins strength is scarcely yet sufficiently restored to allow of his discharging a duty even so honourable and pleasant as that pro- posed for him here, so far from home. Upon his designation 1 have to ask you to permit me to represent his lordship and the city of Bir- mingham upon this great occasion. For him I have to say how heartily he supports the good work which is so auspiciously inaugurated tu- day. For the good people of Birminghm,a I have to say how grateful they are for the help which the Royal Alexandra Hospital has given so generously, so efficiently, so often, and so Ilong to so many of their poorer little brothers and sisters, in relief of anguish, in saving from death, and in restoration to health and useful life. Birmingham owes this Hospital a debt which I am here to acknowledge, and I trust means may soon be found by which the wealthier inhabitants of that great town may in the future repay that debt less inadequately. One word from the point of view of my own calling. Here at Rhyl, with its bright and sunny skies, its temeprate seasons, its fresh sea-breezes, and its ozone-laden air, there is a maritime climate unsurpassed in salubrity in our islands. Here at Rhyl is provided a hospital which is unsurpassed in the efficiency of its equipments. May this good Hospital be helped without stint to fulfil to the fullest its good beneficent career (applause). The Bishop of St Asaph put the proposition to the audience, and ic was carried enthusi- astically. The Prince of Wales, in acknowledgement of the vote of thanks, said On behalf of the Princess as well as my own, I beg to thank the Lord Mayor of Liverpool and Sir James Sawyer for the very kind planner in which they have proposed and seconded this vote of thanks. I can only say we are both much touched by the heartiness of the welcome which you have all given us here to-day at Rhyl. It has afforded the Princess much pleasure also to have received these purses on behalf of this Hospital. We can only add that we wish the Royal Alexandra Hospital a prosperous and long career of usefulness (cheers). Before leaving their Royal Highnesses shook hands with several present with wnom they were acquainted, and the Prince had a short chat with Stephen Hardinge, of Market Drayton, a youth who met with an accident at Rhuddlan Castle. A Petition from the Mothers' Union. During the proceedings at the Hospital a petition from the Lllothers' UiiloLi in North Wales was presented by the Hon Mrs Bulkelcy Owen, President of St Asaph Diocese, and Mrs Williams (Glyngarth Palace), President of Bangor Diocese, as representing 2,300 mothers, te the Princess of Wales, requesting her to be- come Patron of the Mothers' Union of North Wales. The Princess graciously granted the petition, saying, "I accept with the greatest, pleasure.' Departure of the Prince and Princess. The Royal Party, acccjmpanied by the Lord Lieutenant, afterwards returned to the station along the route as before, the Reception Com- mittee also following to see their Royal Highnesses off by train. The train was in charge of Mr R Turnbull (L. t £ N.W.R. Co's superin- tendent), Mr A. Entwistle (district superinten- dent), and Mr Tandy (driver of the engine and assistant superintendent). Mr Denning (assistant manager), and Mr W E Allen (station master) had charge of the arrangements at Rhyl. Subsequently Mr M A Ralli entertained a large and distinguished party at Moranedd, while the members of the Council were lunched at the Westminster Hotel, where the Chairman, Mr H A Tilby, entertained as his guests the Mayors of Flint and Denbigh and the Town Clerks of both those places. The Fire Brigade men who had been on duty in the streets were a!so entertained at the Town Hall (Mr James, Grosvenor Hotel) catering. References in the Council Chamber. At the monthly meeting of the Urban District Council which followed, Mr H A Tilby (Chairman) presiding, Mr J H Ellis said lie would be very glad to voice the feeling of the Council, and so emphasise the occasion of the Royal visit, by congratulating those con- cerned on the success of the day's proceedings. Not only were they unanimous as an authority, but the town as a people and visitors alike were unanimous in stating that the event could not have passed off better. He felt sure that testimony to this effect would also be conveyed to them from higher quarters, and he thought the Chairman and the Clerk to the Council were especially deserving of congratulation on the manner in which that day's arrange- ments had been carried out. Certainly they would not forget the Prince of Wales' testi- mony regarding Rhyl. His Royal Highness' remarks were of a most encouraging character, and he (Mr Ellis) thought they ought to feel proud to find that Rhyl stood so high in the estimation, not only of his Royal Highness, but of one of the most eminent medical authorities in Great Britain, Sir James Sawyer. Those speeches were worthy of permanent record, and he trusted that they might be set forth in any publication which the Council might l.e in- clined to issue respecting the virtues and merits of this watering place and seaside resort (hear, hear). The Chairman said it was due to the Council that they should at once know in the most official manner possible the reply of his Royal Highness to the gracious address presented to the Prince and Princess on the occasion of their visit The Lord Lieutenant had expressed to him his personal pleasure at the admirable arrangements made for the reception, and had ventured the opinion that it was due to the ruling authority of the town that every- thing had been managed so successfully. Having read the Prince's reply to the Coun- cil's address, the Chairman said it was a gracious reply from a gracious Prince, and he wished to associate himself with the words of Mr Ellis that this visit had in every way been a good thing for Rhyl. Apart from the fact of their loyalty as subjects of the Royal House, it was some- thing to be proud of that the Heir-Apparent to the Throne had come to Rhyl, and in his own words had testified to the blessings and benefits to be derived here by all who were in search of health. Rhyl was famed throughout the length and breadth of the land for its health-giving properties, and the remarks of Sir James Sawyer and Sir William Mitchell Banks, besides those of other gentlemen they had heard speaking that day afforded testimony that should make them proud and glad that they had had the honour this Royal visit(hear, heir)-
---.---Rhyl Yacht Club.,
Rhyl Yacht Club. In a good breeze the 12ft C.B. Class sailed a. very interesting race on the Marine Lake ou Saturday, for prizes given by the Vice-President, Mr J Foulkes. Capt. Stubbs started ii,e fleet at 3-40, and they crossed the line in t be following order: Mr H Fielding's Fay, Mr R SiriH-ock's Znza, Mr J Pierce-Lewis's Gloria., Mr K il Lewis's Portia. Before the first mark was rounded Gloria had worked her way iuto second place and Portia intc third. Soon aft^r the second mark bad be'n passed Gloria over'naolei F,y and a keen luffiog match fo'lo^ed, Gloria event tally having the best of it, but while this was going on Portia stole past and got in to hrst place. On the conclusion of the first round Gloria cut Portia out and got into first position,yvhich he regained to the finish. An exciting race between Poitia and Fay then followed. Fay luffed Portia past the mark and got into second phwe, but sh was in turn cut out at the next mark by Portia. Zaza and Fay th?n had a ding-dong race to the finish, first one leading, then the other. The times at the finish were Gloria II 4 25 <) Portia 4 J-T 36 Fay.1 29 35 Z:iza 4 3L 0
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---♦ The First Royal Visit…
besides being richly engraved, bearing on the reverse side the monogram of her Royal Highness, a view of the hospital buildings as designed for the old site, and other decorative features, and the mallet also hearing a coronet and monogram of the recipient. The presenta-j tion over, the Princess immediately proceeded to lay the foundation stone, which she subse- quently declared to be "well and truly placed. Led by Colonel Hore, the purse-holders, num- bering over 100, then came forward to the platform, and the purses havingjbeen presented, the Princess of Wales signed the Memorial Record as a memento of the event. The purses were afterwards returned to the col- lectors as mementos. At the conclusion of the ceremony the Royal party and the cavalcade returned to the station by way of West Parade, High Street, Kinmel Street, and Bodfor Street, a special train being in waiting to convey their Royal Highnesses to Crewe. The public decorations were carried out in a most satis- factory manner by Messrs Womersley and Co, of Leeds, and their work was admirably sup- plemented by the artistic efforts of private decorators, the whole being gorgeous beyond description. On the occasion of that visit no less than 16,000 persons journeyed by rail to and from Rhyl, but splendid order was main- tained amongst the huge crowd from first to last. Incidents Grave and Gay. Of course there werb many incidents, amusing and otherwise enacted, which even now readily provoke varied recollections when related. That day Rhyl was the happy hunt- ing ground for pickpockets, but this is one of the evila which have to be guarded against wherever crowds congregate. At any rate, it is said that one good dame asked a friend to lend her sixpence as her purse was missing, and the latter was about to render the solicited act of kindness when to her surprise she found herself in the same predicament, the result being that both had to search for a friend before they could get home. Another incident, not quite so tragical, but immensely enjoyed by many, occurred when the fountain on the Promenade, having been put in working order for the Royal visit, started to play, the water almost drowning those standing around it. It had to be stopped and the decorations removed. The proceed- ings would have been incomplete without the ubiquitous "photographic fiend," who was here, there, and everywhere. The illu- minations at night were a grand feature of the day's festivities, and notwithstanding that July is a very unfavourable month for any- thing of this description, the display was most effective. The two chief centres of attraction were the Town Hall and the Hospital, the Town Hall illuminations being carried out by Mr L G Hall, the Gas Manager, and the Hospital work by Mr H G Little and many private dwellings besides were lighted up in honour of the Royal visit. There was the same night a banquet at the Town Hall in honour of the event, the Chairman of Com- missioners (Mr P. Mostyn Williams) presiding. Thanks also to the kind generosity of Mr and Mrs Morgan Owen, and the ready assistance of many helpers, the aged poor of the town were not forgotten while everyone else had been merrymaking, as it were, for on the day follow- ing the Royal visit they were most hospitably entertained at the Palace and Gardens, this arrangement being effected so that there should be no clashing with other public rejoicings.