FIRE.

Kaikoura Star, Volume LXIII, Issue 58, 29 July 1943, Page 2

FIRE.

CATHOLIC PRESBYTERY. A fire occurred at the Catholic Presbytery, Suburban, at about 5.30 on Tuesday morning, but, thanks to the services rendered by several willing workers, was suppressed in its incipient stage and confined to two rooms, which were slightly damaged. The fire apparently started under the curb in the front lower room, made its way up the left-hand side of the mantlepiece, and upwards at the side of the chimney, and through the second storey room to the roof. The Rev. Father Hanratty, who occupied the room above the seat of the fire, was awakened by smoke, and immediately notified Messrs M. and Hugh Mackie, who were early on the scene, and soon had the fire under control, otherwise the whole building would have been destroyed. Twelve members of the Volunteer Fire Brigade were on the scene at 6.15, but found little to do. as by that time the fire had been dealt with. The Telephone Exchange staff did good service in advising residents of the outbreak. The building and contents were insured in the General Insurance Cum pa-ny.