Eighteen convalescent Belgian soldiers arrived at Christchurch reailway station from Gravesend by the 3.30 train yesterday afternoon and met with a most enthusiastic reception at the hands of the large crowd assembled to greet them.

Shortly after their arrival they were conveyed in six motor cars, which had been lent for the occasion to the residence of Mrs Wiggins at Sandhills, Mudeford, where they are being housed.

Along the route from the station the streets were lined with people who cheered the soldiers on their way to Mudeford. Many people were wearing Belgian colours and many had decorated their houses. In every way they could the inhabitants manifested to the wounded men a most hearty welcome.

Some of the cases are rather serious. Dr Hartford is the medical officer in attendance and nine ladies have given their services as nurses.

The gallant soldiers desire through the columns of the “Echo” to express their high appreciation of the very hearty welcome they received.

Another batch of Belgian wounded was due to arrive at 8.30 and arrangements for these had been made in the Red Cross Hospital at the Christchurch Union.