DIED IN THE SURF.

Auckland Star, Volume LXII, Issue 15, 19 January 1931, Page 8

DIED IN THE SURF.

OPOTIKI BATHER'S COLLAPSE.

HEART FAILURE WHILE SWIMMING

BROUGHT ASHORE ON BOARD,

(By Telegraph.—Own Correspondent.)

OPOTIKI, Sunday,

As the result of heart failure while surfing in the breakers at Hukuwai Beach, Mr. Eric Parkinson, a,gcd 31, of Opotiki, had died by the time he was brought ashore on a surf-board. While Mr. Parkinson was surfing with a party of friends about 100 yds from the shore, hie brother, Mr. Lcn. Parkinson, who was close to him, thought he looked queer him if he was all right. "Yes, *I am all right," but almost immediately he collapsed and was caught by his brother.

Calls for help brought other young men to assist, and they placed him on a 6Uif-board and brought him to the beach.

Dr. Casey was summoned and an effort was made to revive Mr.' Parkinson before and after the doctor's arrival, but without success.

Mr. Parkinson, the youngest son of Mr. and the late Mrs. Parkinson, was one of the most popular young men in the town. Although 18 stone in weight, ho was remarkably active and was one of the best footballers in the Bay of Plenty, having represented Opotiki aud the Bay for several years. A few years ago he joined the police force, being stationed at Auckland, but resigned after two years, returning to Opotiki, where as carried on the business of a cordial manufacturer.