had been received most favourably by the lower-paid staff members. The number of members however who could take advantage of the facilities proved to be too few to make it self- supporting. The canteen could not therefore be operated success- fully unless some sort of subsidy was granted by the Club. The Club funds could not bear this burden having regard to the major commitment of making repayments to Government and the canteen had to be closed down in February, 1955.
76. Other Social Activities. A children's party for the children of members of the club and for the students of the Railway Club School was held in April and more than 400 children attended. Refreshments were provided from sub- scriptions by members and a number of prizes was distributed to the children. Various items of amusement were organized with the help of the school masters including dances and plays in which the school children took part in the performances and the party ended up happily with a film show consisting of simple cartoons hired from local firms.
One of the most enjoyable and memorable events of the year was the celebration party given to Mr. I. B. Trevor, C.B.E., M.C., E.D., J.P., General Manager of the Railway and the President of the Railway Club, in honour of his award of the C.B.E. decoration. This was held in December, 1954 at the Railway Club House and practically all members of the Railway staff attended. Of great interest to relatives and friends was a display of models of railway equipment and rolling stock to scale made in the members' spare time and a very entertaining programme consisting of a Chinese opera performance, short plays, dances, and a display of conjuring. The function which was voted a great success ended up with a game of tombola.
Dinner parties of a purely social nature and at very low cost were held in the Club House from time to time in order to promote friendship among the staff and good understanding and cooperation in their working of the Railway. These parties were encouraging.
20
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.