CHURCH DESTROYED

Rotorua Morning Post, Volume 3, Issue 665, 18 October 1933, Page 5

CHURCH DESTROYED

(Press Assn.-

FIRE AT HUNTLY RESIDENTS HELPLESS OWING TO LACK OF FIRE EQUIPMENT furnisHings saved

— By Telegraph — Copyright).

Auckland, Tuesday Lack of proper fire fighting equipment was responsible for the total destruction by fire of St. Paul's Anglican , Church at Huntly. The fire originated near the ridge of the roof at the'rear of the build-" ing. Although observed in its incipient stages, nothing could be done as there is no fire brigade in Huntly. When, it was first seen, the fire could have been extinguished with a few buckets of water had a long ladder been available. The blaze continued fiercely for an hour and was spectacular when the tower and bell collapsed into the blazing ruins. Strenuous .efforts on the part of the vicar, Rev. E. R, Wright and a band of church officials, result.ed in all the furnishings, including the altar, organ and seats being saved. The church was built of wood and was over 35 years old. It is situated in the centre of the town and the main trunk railway line passes close to the site. It is thought possible that a spark from a passing engine may have caused the outbreak . The church was insured by the Church of England Diocesan Pensions Board for £500 with the New Zealand Insurance Office.