FIRE AT RICHMOND.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume XLV, Issue XLV, 2 June 1910, Page 4

FIRE AT RICHMOND.

MR W. R, MAY'S FACTORIES DESTROYED.

Messrs W. R. May and Co.'s butter and bacon factories were destroyed by fire last night. The fire had gained a firm hold of the premises before it waa observed, Mr G. Mill living half-a-mile from the scene of the fire, was the first to ring the alarm. The Fire Brigade was quickly on the spot,' and rendered good service. The main buildings , could not be saved, but W. J. Cole- ■ man's butcher's shop, dwelling and outhouses were saved, though separated by barely a foot of space from the burning buildings. The loss is very Berious. We understand that the insurance will not cover more than a small portion of the loss. New machinery had lately been added. The origin of the fire ia unknown. Mr Mays factories are of the most up-to-date type and extensive nature, and tho loss will undoubtedly be large. The plant that had been installed was much larger than required at present, for it was procured for the purpose of fostering the dairying industry in Nelson, and the loss will acoordingly be more serious. The insurance on the building and plant amount of £6OO in the South British Office. Mr. May hie loss at o,uite £2OOO over and above the insurance. Already he has secured the use of the Brightwater Butter Factory, and his suppliers will take their milk there. Immediately a ataat ia to be made in the erection of new plant and buildings.