THE BENEFIT SOCIETY OF UNITED BRETHREN.
The small but picturesque village of Eastmeon, five miles distant from the direct South-Western Railway, Petersfield station, was on the 20th inst. enlivened by the anniversary of the above society. Its members, about 120 in number, met for their annual fete, headed by an excellent band, and marched to the residence of Mrs. Forbes, Berleigh Park (who is building and endowing a block of noble almshouses in the village, under the able superintendence of Messrs. Lewis, Brothers, contractors, of Westmeon). After partaking of refreshments, being also handsomely received and well rewarded, the society returned to the George Inn, where an excellent dinner was provided by Mr. J. White, who catered in his usual style. Henry Barnard, Esq., of Park Farm, Master of the Eastmeon Harriers, occupied the chair, and to this worthy patron are we indebted for many a bye-day on the ‟Old Winchester Hills” with his splendid pack of harriers. After the usual loyal toasts, Mr. Henry Green, secretary, gave the health of H. Barnard Esq., Master of the Eastmeon Harriers, which was duly appreciated amid loud cheers. We must acknowledge that Mr. Barnard’s tactics as a huntsman, either in field or in cover, are not to be surpassed, and the sporting fraternity of the several villages round are greatly indebted to this noble sportsman for the generous manner in which at all times he is ready to create sport. Long may the noble master and the Harriers be spared to enliven the hearts of all true sportsmen in the neighbourhood.