THE COUNTY OF AYR.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXIV, Issue 13890, 26 October 1905, Page 8

THE COUNTY OF AYR.

THE MAGISTERIAL INQUIRY. [Per Press Association.] DUNEDIN, October 25. At the nautical inquiry into the circumstances connected with the wreck of tho barque, County of Ayr, the evidence was taken of two residents of Shag Point, who saw tho- vessel about two hundred yards off the shore on the morning of October 20, and also, of ,the master, first and second mates and several seamen. After counsel had addressed the Court, tho following decision was given :—“ The Court finds that the County of Ayr was wrecked on Danger Reef on tho morning of October, 20. through careless navigation on the, part of Captain Tulloch and the first officer, James Arthur Robillard, and considers both of these officers to blame for not using tho log and not taking soundings for their exact position when making short tacks *o-ff the coast during tho thick weather prevailing. The Court considers -that both the Captain and first officer must be censured for careless navigation. Their heavy loss through the wreck is taken into consideration, and their certificates will be returned on payment of costs. Tho Court acquits the second officer of blame, and orders the return of his certificate without assessment.” Costs were assessed, witnesses £3 10s, assessors’ fees £4 4s, counsel lor prosecution £2 2s.