FIRES.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume L, Issue 61, 21 October 1907, Page 2

FIRES.

Per Press Association. Ashburton, Last Xigbt. Al 2 o'clock this morning business premises in East-street. occupied liy David Sutherland, confectioner and caterer, and A. 'J', ii. Williams, bookseller and stationer, were gutted by lire, and Sutherland, bis wife, and a servant girl who occupied the upper story us a dwelling just managed to escape in deshabille by way of the verandah. When Sutherland retired to bed at 1 o'clock everything apparently was safe, but shortly before 2 o'clock the occupants of the shop were aroused by Constable O'Ciradv. The tire commenced in the kitchen of Sutherland's shop, and the rear portion of both premises, with the contents, xvcrc gutted before the brigade subdued the flames. Sutherland's stock-in-trade, fittings, and diningroom furniture were insured for £3OO in the North British, but there was no insurance on the household furniture and personal effects, which were all destroyed. Williams' stock ivas insured for £SOO, but lie was carrying over £IOOO worth, which was more or less damaged by smoke, fire, and water. The building was owned by .Mr-,. W. Anderson, and was insured for about £OOO in the South Britihh office. The front portion of the shops was not materially damaged by the fire.