Priest killed at level crossing

Press, 30 May 1981, Page 3

Priest killed at level crossing

PA Wellington A former broadcaster and news reader, the Rev. Peter Latham, who died yesterday when his car was in collision with the Silver Fern railcar at Paraparamu. was "a broadcaster in the very best sense of the word.” said the National programme host, Sharon Crosbie. last evening. Miss Crosbie replaced Mr Latham as host of radios "All Things Considered " programme three years ago when he retired from broadcasting to become an Anglican priest.

Mr Latham, who spent 25 years in radio and television, was assistant curate at Paraparamu, having been ordained last year.

"He was truly professional. He was very funny and kind and extremely supportive,” said Miss Crosbie.

Mr Latham, who was 54, was turning off State highway 1 over a level crossing at Paraparamu when his car was in collision with the north-bound Silver Fern railcar soon after 9 a.rn.

Bells at the crossing were ringing but the police had still not ascertained by last evening if the lights were flashing when the accident happened.

The car was thrown into the air then dragged about half a kilometre along the lines before the railcar was able to stop. Nobody in the railcar was injured.

Mechancial and structural damage to the Silver Fern should be repaired by Monday. Passengers on the railcar yesterday were taken to Auckland by coach. Passengers booked on it from Auckland today will also be taken by coaches running, to the Silver Fern schedule.