Bugler gets a blast

The president of the Wanganui RSA is unimpressed after a bugler offered to play at Anzac Day only if he was paid.

Dan McLeod said the recent Holidays Amendment Bill - "Mondayising" Anzac and Waitangi Days - had been an unsettling instance of the public not understanding the importance and spirit of the day.

However, in the lead-up to yesterday's dawn service another concern had been raised.

"Normally we have three buglers to play the Last Post and Reveille at the dawn service but as they fade away no one else seems to be coming through to replace them. This year it's been difficult so we've had to make do with a battery-operated system.

"We did have one person write a letter saying he would play but only if he was paid $100."

Mr McLeod said the offer was disappointing and upsetting.

"It just goes to show there are still people who don't understand the spirit of Anzac Day," he said.

Despite these negatives Mr McLeod expressed gratitude for two Wanganui City College students, Marunui Sturmey and Jayden Glen, who spoke at yesterday's service.

"The boys spoke very well and it shows a very important thing - that the next generation is getting ready to take over."