1856

REJOICINGS AT WREA GREEN.

On Wednesday last, this usually quiet place was the scene of great hustle and enjoyment. At twelve o'clock, the children attending Wrea Green schools formed in procession outside the building, and, preceded by Martland's fine band, from Preston, and accompanied by a large number of people, marched to Westby, where they were joined by the children attending the schools there.

They then returned to Wrea Green by way of Mr. Stavert's', Mr. Fisher's, and round the Villa. The procession halted at the residences of the above-named gentlemen and others, the band playing "The Fine Old English Gentlemen," " Partant pour la Syrie," &c., the children also giving three hearty cheers.

On their return to Wrea Green schools, coffee and buns were provided for, and liberally distributed to the children, of whom there were not less than three hundred. This repast seemed to afford the young company much satisfaction. The procession was then re-formed, and marched to Ribby Hall, preceded, as before, by the band.

On their return, the children and others engaged in many good old English sports, till about half past five, when tea was announced, and of which, altogether, about seven hundred partook one hundred and fifty of whom had free tickets of admission, from the liberality of gentlemen in the neighbourhood.

By this time large numbers of visitors had arrived from Preston, Lytham, Kirkham, and, indeed, from the whole surrounding district, many as pedestrians, and not a few in vehicles of every description. Precisely at six o'clock the band was stationed on the green, and played during the evening a selection of favourite dances, the company entering with great spirit into country dances, polkas, &c.

 The donkey races were by no means confined to the more juvenile portion of the assemblage. During the evening several balloons were sent into the air. At dusk a large quantity of fireworks were discharged, and afforded much amusement to many, while to others they were the objects of silent admiration. At the close of the fireworks three cheers were given for the Queen, at the suggestion of the chairman, Mr: Fisher.

The school-rooms were most tastefully decorated with flags, flowers, mottoes, &c., and reflected the highest credit on the labours of the working committee, to whom, indeed, great praise is due for the excellent arrangements of the day. Flags were also seen floating in the air from the church steeple, and the tops of the neighbouring houses.

It is calculated that about two thousand persons were present during the evening. We must not omit to notice that the playing of the band was much applauded, and that it contributed most materially to the enjoyments of the day. Everybody left the scene of innocent and healthful recreation perfectly satisfied with all that had taken place.