LATE NEWS.

Hokitika Guardian, 28 March 1917, Page 1

LATE NEWS.

JPBB PBKBB ASSOCIATION,-—SOPYttIOHTJ. DISASTROUS FIRE. Blaze in Naleon. NELSON, March 27. The most disastrous fire that has occurred in Nelson for many years broke out in a block of wooden buildin Trafalgar Street to-night. The premises of Liglitband and Co., Boot and Shoe Importers, Jackson and Co., Booksellers and Stationers, and W. .C. Anscll, Chemist, were totally destroyed as also were the hulk stores of E. Buxton and Co., Ltd. Ironmongers and General merchants running behind the premises mentioned. Buxton’s main building, a, large brick structure separated from Jackson’s by a narrow right of way was for a long time in great danger as the fire way repeatedly breaking into the top floor. The strenuous efforts of the Brigade however, prevented the spread of the flames in this direction. Buxton and Co’s loss as far as the main building iy concerned is being confined to that clue to heat and smoke and water.

On the north the firo was cheeked by a new brick building owned by Brown Bros, and occupied by Era-then and Co.

Draper*. The damage in these premises is light, and wholly caused by heat and smoke.

Along from Jacksons, Light bands' and Buxtons bulk stores it was impassable, but some of Ansell’s stock was' got out. Tho damage will run into many thousands, hut estimates have not yet been arrived at. Details of the insurances are not available to-night, but those on Lighthand’s' stock and Jackson and Co’s buildings and stock arc all in the-Al-liance. and Buxtons in New Zealand offices.

The Brigade worked splendidly, hut were hampered for some time in the critical stage of the fire by inadequate water supply. Women Police. AUCKLAND, March- 27. A. public meeting under the auspices of the Christian Temperance Union tonight resolutioifed urging the Government to yield without further delay to the widespread and frequently expressed demand for the appointment of women as police in order that young people in the community may shave in the proven advantages offered in many parts of the country and other countries. Also urging ithafc as" the right

to elect Igieally carries with the rigl)g'-> to he elected. Government take without delay steps to remove all obstacle:! in the way of the women entering Parliament- and also to their serving as Magistrates Justices of the peace ami jurors.