BIG FIRE IN CITY

Evening Post, Volume CV, Issue 5, 7 January 1928, Page 14

BIG FIRE IN CITY

OUTBREAK IN WAREHOUSE EXTENSIVE DAMAGE TO STOCK Serious damage to a largo and valuable stock of silks and other similar clothing material was done by fire which broke out in a two-storied concrete building situated at the corner of Cuba and Vivian street, -it about a quarter to 11 o'clock last night. Tho premises are owned by the Cooper Building Co., Ltd., and were occupied on the ground floor by Macduff's, Ltd., and a Victoria Laundry depot. The first and second floors were occupied by F. Khouri and Co., softgoods manufacturer. The flro broke out on the top floor, which was used as a workroom, and in addition to considerable materials, contained a large number of sewing machines. The flames spread from the pressing portion of the room, and, aided by a strong draught, soon had a good hold. When the brigade received the call the top floor was a mass of flame, but three leads were quickly run out, and within half an hour tho outbreak was suppressed. The top floor was gutted, nothing whatever the fire. Burning embers falling on to the first floor set flimsy material alight there, but comparatively little was burnt, most of the stock being damaged by smoke and water. This floor was used as a warehouse and showroom, and held large stocks of expensive ladies' clothing and materials. Although tarpaulins were spread over the articles in the showroom, most of the more valuable material 'on another part of the floor could not be covered, and was badly damaged. Tarpaulins were used with great advantage to cover tho stock of Macduffs', which except for a small quantity of water that made its way into the shop under the doors, was not damaged. Mr. Khouri valued his stock at between £12,000 and £13,000. Practically all of it was damaged, either by fire or by smoke and water. The building is insured in the Now Zealand Insurance for £5000. Maedufi's stock is insured for £1000 in the Atlas Office. Khouri and Co.'s stock and machinery were insured for £2000 n the Boyal Exchange, and £6800 in the Commercial Union, The cause of the fire is unknown. The firo that occurred was over Macduff's, Ltd., corner of Vivian and Cuba streets, and not at the main shop, corner of Dixon and Cuba street. — Advt.