THE PETROL WAR.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LVII, Issue 119, 13 October 1914, Page 3

THE PETROL WAR.

BRITISH DESPATCH RIDERS. FASTEST IN THE WORLD. In the. groat struggle which faces Europe, Britain will be provided with the fastest and most efficient 'body of despatch riders in the world. When it was seen that hostilities were inevitable the W a r Office asked the Auto-Cycle Union to secure motor cyclists who would be willing to serve ■'cither at home or abroad. The reply to the union's appeal has been magnificent. No sooner had it been issued than of younsr mien responded to the office in Pa'll Mall. About 400 were sent on to Fulham House, the headquarters of the Terri'torial Cyclist Corps, which has now reported itself to be "full up." Applicants are now being referred to the county associations, all of which, need 'fast despa/teh. riders. ■ A fine body of 5 picked men has boen 'formed for employment with the Expeditionary Force. Each of these is a first-class linguist, a highly expert ridur, and a competent mechanic. Each will lie armed witli a revolver, and will be paid 5s a day "all found." Those who stay in the United Kingdom will be paid 8s a day and provide Ipicir own food.

i The War Office has taken over 'the entire output of several large motor 'cycle manufacturing firms, and has, laid '■n largo stocks of lyres, spare parts, and 'petrol. Until further notice all members of the military and naval forces, members of ambulance corps, and Red Cross nurses in uniform will bo permitted to 'travel free on the. London County Couiiicil tramcars.

' Retired officers who are recalled to service in the present emergency will receive, on application to the War Office, a grant of £IOO for their outfit.