DISASTER AVERTED

Hokitika Guardian, 6 September 1930, Page 5

DISASTER AVERTED

ACCIDENT ON MAIN TRUNK EXPRESS. By Telegraph, Per Pres* Association.] PALMERSTON N., Sept. 0. Disaster almost overtook the Limited Express at 7.15 a.m, to-day two miles north of Kelvin Grove, when the left trailing wheel to the front bogey earn© off the third carriage. The, express, carrying a full load of passengers wns running at an easy speed ahead of schedule on a down grade, when the occupants of the third carriage suddenly felt a heavy bumping and jolting. Thoroughly alarmed they stood up and men rushed to apply the emergency brakes at both ends of the carriage, bringing the train to a standstill just past a level crossing at Robert’s Lane. An investigation made showed the hogev which had been running on the sleepers for a mile, off the line, damaging the permanent way and sheering off holts. Passengers expressed the opinion that they had a remarkable escape and only the carriages keeping to the line prevented a smash. After a two hours’ wait they were taken on to Palmerston North. A special relief train is at work jacking the damaged carriage on to trolley wheels prior to removal to a siding further on. Tt is anticipated the main trunk service. will shortlv be restored.