BUSH FIRE SPREADS

STRONG WIND BLOWING

(By Telegraph.—Press Association.)

TAUMAETJNUI,/ This Day.

Fanned/by a very strong east wind, afire which broke out. yesterday afternoon in the bush between Oio and Owhango caused settlers in the district much anxiety, last night.

No serious damage was done, but in some instances houses were menaced and "the settlers had to stand by all night with water. The verandah of Mr. Lewis's house was scorched, and a cowshed was on fire three times, but the fire was extinguished with water. Two farmers who had a burn a fortnight ago and sowed grass seed will have to sow again, as yesterday's fire swept through their, property.

The flro is ■ still burning, but if the east wind continues the danger will be minimised, as the fire will run out into the open country! If tho wind changes to the south or the north, the township's of Owhango and Eaurimu may be menaced, according to which way the wind blows. .'- - - ■ .... . ..