TERRIFIC EXPLOSION.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 50, Issue 159, 17 April 1930, Page 5

TERRIFIC EXPLOSION.

CAUSES FIRE IN GARAGE. BUILDING AND CARS BURNED. (Per Press Association.) AUCKLAND, April 16. A terrific explosion of oxygen cylinders, which hurled iron and other debris 100 feet into the air, was the climax of a lire which the Rodney garage in Queen Street, W arkworth, this morning. The building, which was one of the best-eqmpped motor service stations in the township, was constructed of wood an' l iron and in the absence of a water supply for fire-fighting the premises and contents were quickly burned. The outbreak was discovered by the boarders of an hotel almost opposite, and several immediately rushed to the door and attempted to save some oi the contents. They succeeded *i drag-o-inf out two oxygen cylinders and a secondhand motor-car, minus its encrine before they were driven back h* the intense heat. The fire spread with lightnine rapidity, and at its height a spectacular sight. At one stage another block of huikinns, that of the "Rodney Times was threatened with destruction, hut fortunately there was no wind. Two new cars and four other vehicles, besides £2OO worth of tyres, were lost The premises were owned by J. Thornton, who will be a heavy loser. He estimates the value of the mildine plant and stock at between C4OOO and £SOOO and the total of the insuranees is only £2/500.