SPECTACULAR FIRE.

Auckland Star, Volume LXII, Issue 16, 20 January 1931, Page 5

SPECTACULAR FIRE.

GARRISON HALL AT GISBORNE FUSILLADE OF AMMUNITON. FIREMAN'S PAINFUL BURNS. (By Telegraph.—Press Association.) GISBORNE, this day. A spectacular fire shortly after midnight destroyed the Garrison Hall, one of the largest single-span wooden build : ings in the Dominion. Fanned by a fierce north-westerly, the fire quickly consumed the'building. A large stock of ammunition which was stored in the hall ignited, and created a merry fusillade.

Fireman Anderson sustained painful burns on the hands from a sudden burst of flame. The task of the brigade was hopeless from the outset so far as the hall was concerned, and efforts were mainly directed to saving the adjacent buildings, which were showered with sparks. Since the suspension of the Defence Act the hall had been used for miniature golf. It was occupied as usual till 11 o'clock last night. Primarily the hall was a depot- for military stores, and a large quantity of uniforms, rifles, etc., had recently been handed in by disbanded territorials. In addition, six machine-guns and much camping gear were in the building. The hall was insured for £3500 and the arms for £3350, both risks being held in the Yorkshire Office. The total value of the hall and its contents is assessed at £10,500. Additional insurances are:—Sun office, £1500; Standard office, £1000; South British office, £500. The insurances of the Kerridge miniature golf plant are unknown.'

three-seater car,

DAMAGED NEAR WHANGAKEI. (By Telegraph.—Own Correspondent.) WHANGAREI, Monday. A three-seater motor car belonging to Mr. A. McMillan, of Hikurangi, caught fire and was severely damaged on the Xgiinguru Road, about 16 miles from Whangarei.

MOTOR CAR IN FLAMES

(By Telegraph.—Own Correspondent.) OPOTIKI, Monday. When Mr. Moxley, traveller, of Auckland, was filling the tank of his threeseater ear in Church Street yesterday, (lames broke out under the vehicle. The fire brigade extinguished the flames with chemicals. The estimated damage is £15..