BAKEHOUSE FIRE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26633, 2 December 1947, Page 4

BAKEHOUSE FIRE

BLAZE AT SAWYER’S BAY BRIGADE’S EFFORTS IN VAIN A specthcular blaze at Sawyer's Bay shortly before 5 o’clock yesterday afternoon resulted in the complete destruction of a bakehouse operated by Mr N. W. Fenton, of Dunedin. Fanned by a strong breeze, the flames defied the efforts of the fire brigade. Although the brigade? was quickly on the scene there was no hydrant close enough for use and the necessary water had to be pumped from a nearby creek. This entailed using approximately 1000 feet of hose and, as the creek was shallow, a dam had to be made in order to obtain the necessary pressure. The fact that the fire had a good hold by the time the brigade reached the scene made it impossible to effect a save but hoses were twice played on the walls of the adjoining dwelling, which was blistered by the heat. It is understood that the building and contents were insured but some valuable baking machinery was destroyed. The cause of the fire is unknown as the bakehouse had been empty since 1 p.m. when the last members of the staff left the premises.