TRAIN SERVICE ON SHOW DAY

Kaipara and Waitemata Echo, 10 February 1916, Page 3

TRAIN SERVICE ON SHOW DAY

TO THE EDITOR

SIR, —I would like to draw the attention of the Railway authorities, and the public generally, to the over-crowding that took place on the down train to the Helensville Show on the 29th January. I went to a station north of Kaukapakapa with a.number of friends; all the railway carriages appeared to be packed, so we got into a front car, and were told by the guard that there was plenty of room at the back, and if we stayed where we were we would have to take out first-class tickets, although there was only standing-room in the carriage. So I, with my friends, struggled the whole length of the train to the carriage next the van, and when we got there found there were not nearly seats enough for our party. Some of us had dragged, or carried little children with us, and all the cars and platforms were packed with people standing, who did their best to crush aside and let us pass. Not being a woman, Mr Editor, you dont't know how it feels to have to crush along through crowds of gaping strangers. At Kaukapakapa about forty more people were waiting for the train, but I dont't know how they managed, poor things. On reaching Helensville, the first thing that caught my eye was seven empty railway carriages shunted away on a side line and evidently not in use that day. Now, I would like to know if it is right and' proper that people should have to herd on the train more closely than they would be allowed to pack their own pigs ? Had Show Day been fine, instead of half wet (as it was in the morning), the train could not possibly have carried all the people. Next Show Day I think I will stay at home, unless I can ride or drive to Helensvi}le. —I am, etc.,

4 A Country Girl