SPECTACULAR FIRE.

Manawatu Standard, Volume L, Issue 120, 17 April 1930, Page 7

SPECTACULAR FIRE.

OXYGEN CYLINDERS EXPLODE. Per Press Association. * AUCKLAND, April 16. A terrific explosion of oxygen cylinders, which huried iron and other debris 100 feet into the air, was the climax «f a destructive fire which demolished a garage in Queen Street, Warkwortli, this morning. The building, which was one of the bestequipped motor service stations in the township, was constructed of wood and iron, and in the absence of a water supply for fire-fighting the premises were quickly consumed by tho flames, which also destroyed the contents. The outbreak was detected by some boarders in an hotel almost opposite, and several immediately rushed but and attempted- to save some of the contents of the garage. They succeeded in dragging out two oxygen cylinders and a second-hand motor car,' minus its engine, before they were driven back by the intense heat. The blaze spread f with lightning rapidity, and at its height presented a spectacular sight. At one stage another block of buildings, that of the Rodney Times, was threatened with destruction, but fortunately there was no wind. , Two new cars and four other vehicles, besides £2OO worth of tyres, were lost. The premises were owned by Mr J. Thornton, who will be a heavy loser. He estimates the value of the building, plant and stock at between £4OOO and £SOOO, and the total of the insurances is only £2500.