Newspaper Article – Red Cross Have Busy Week

Red Cross Have Busy Week

The town members of the local Red Cross have had a particularly busy week. On Monday they served a hot dinner to 50 prisoners of war and sick and wounded and yesterday preparation was made to serve dinner to 100. A considerable amount of organisation is needed to have the dinner ready. Yesterday as the Napier mail train was on its way north from Wellington big roasts of beef were cooking in five different ovens in five different homes in Woodville. In another pounds of pumpkin were being prepared and then cooked; in another potatoes and in another cabbage. Apple pies and big plum puddings were also cooking while fruit and custard had been prepared the day before. Some time before the arrival of the train long tables had been covered with white damask and linen table cloths and set with shining silver. Flowers in tall vases and a cheery fire added the home touch. To get the dinner collected from the various homes and to the station in time is the expert work of Mrs. H. P. Horne with her big car. Ashhurst keeps Woodville informed of the departure of the train and as the train steams in to Woodville station, Mrs. R. B. James and her efficient band of helpers have plate of dinner all ready to place in front of the sick and wounded or prisoners of war soldiers. Country members of the Red Cross who are unable to assist in this voluntary work, help by contribution in cash or kind. It is to Woodville’s credit that this Red Cross work is entirely a Woodville contribution.