CHURCH DESTROYED

Hokitika Guardian, 18 October 1933, Page 5

CHURCH DESTROYED

DISASTROUS FIRE AT HUNTLY.

LACK OF FIGHTING FACILITIES.

(Per' Press Association—Copyright).

AUCKLAND, October 17,

Lack of proper fire fighting facilities was responsible for the total destruction by fire of St. Paul’s Church of England, at Huntly to-night. 4 The fire originated near a ridge of the roof as the rear of thexhurch.'Although it was observed in the incipient. stages nothing could be done, as there is . no fire brigade in Huntly. ' " " ' When first seen, the fire.could have been- extinguished with a few budeets of water if a long ladder had been available. The fire .blazed fiercely for an 'hour, and it was spectacular, when the tower and bell collapsed into (the blazing riiins. - .•■:* Strenuous-efforts on the part of the Vicar, Rev. E. R. Wright; and a band of church officials 'resulted in all of the furnishings, including'the altar, organ and seats.being saved..-The'church was built of’wood,-with air iron roof. It was over 35 years old; and was situated in the centre of thd town. . ' ,

The main trunk railway runs close to the side of the site.' It is thought possible that a spark from a .passing engine might have caused 'the fire. The church was .insured ,by the Church of England Diocesan Pension Board for £509 in the New Zealand Office.