ANOTHER FIRE AT NELSON COLLEGE: DINING BLOCK BURNED

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23021, 11 August 1949, Page 6

ANOTHER FIRE AT NELSON COLLEGE: DINING BLOCK BURNED

(P.A.) NELSON, Aug. 11. The dining and kitchen blocks, which cater for 270 boarders at Nelson College, were destroyed by fire late yesterday afternoon. Three engines were sent out from the Nelson fire station, but the fire had a firm hold when the brigade arrived and the buildings were completely gutted The blaze started when fat in an electric fish fry daught fire.

The cook on duty called college boys to help her and one threw a jug of water into the blazing container, spreading the flames. The fire gained a rapid hold of the kiVhen block and spread to the dining hall. Supplies of bread and other food were obtained for the boys’ evening meal at their hostels and arrangements have been made for the college to break-up immediately for the term holidays. South Island boarders will be sent home today and those living in the North Island as soon as sea and air transport can be obtained. Sixty-five will leave Nelson for Wellington tonight. and 60 from Picton on Friday. Another 60 will leave Nelson on Monday night. The balance will leave by air when seats are available. The buildings destroyed were of wood, but contained valuable eauipment bought since the previous fire 15 months ago.