WESTPORT FIRE

Hokitika Guardian, 4 February 1929, Page 5

WESTPORT FIRE

FUR TITER PAR TICUL AR S. [By Telegraph, Per Press Association.] WESTPORT, Feb. 2. Although serious damage was done when the fire broke out in Central Palmerston Street early on Saturday morning, the Fire Brigade effected a wonderful save. The fire had a very strong hold before the alarm was given and three simps were in flames, but the Brigade, assisted by a good water pressure, saved thfc adjoining buildings. The fire is supposed to have started in a room at the back of Fox’s boot shop, and quickly spread on one side to Colvin’s butcher's shop, and on the other to the New Zealand Clothing factory. All throe shops were gutted and practically nothing was saved. The Clothing Factory was conducting a sale, and was carrying a large stock. The whole lot was hadlv damaged by fire and water. During the height of tfie blaze the plate glass windows collapsed into the street. The brick wall on the north side of Colvin’s building prevented the fire from spreading to Patterson’s fruit shop and Walker’s cycle depot, although these two buildings suffered from water and smoke. The Brigade concentrated on the south side of the Clothing Factory, thereby preventing the flames from spreading to King’s fruit shop and Miss Carey’s and Miss Kelly’s dressmaking establishment. It was about an hour before the Brigade had the blaze thoroughly under control. 'The occupants of two hotels close by made a hasty exit with their Oelongings. , Colvin’s building, which included Fox’s shop, was insured for £250 in the Yorkshire. Colvin had £l5O on stock and fittings, and Fox £IOO on stock and machinery. The New Zealand Clothing Factory insurances are held in Dunedin.