MIDNIGHT ATTACK

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXX, Issue 21414, 11 February 1933, Page 10

MIDNIGHT ATTACK

MAN STRUCK ON HEAD ATTEMPT AT ROBBERY ASSAILANT ESCAPES IN DARK [by TELEGRAPH —OWN correspondent] PALMERSTON NORTH. Friday With robbery as the probable motive, a savage assault was made shortly after midnight yesterday upon Sir. J. Vickerstaff, a resident of Cuba Street, As he was about to enter the pate of bis hr.niß adjoining th« showgrounds, lie was struck a heavy blow on the head. lie endeavoured to grapple with his assailant, but the latter fled. Mr. Vickerstaff, v.-ho is a billiard saloon proprietor, said he was carrying the day's takings from his business. He talked with a friend on the corner of Waldegrave Street for a few minutes, then proceeded toward his residence a little over 100 yds. distant.- On the wav be heard footsteps steadily overtaking him, but he took no notice. Just as he reached the gate and was turning to unlatch it, the footsteps drew level with him, and he was struck a violent blow on the head with a heavy blunt instrument. Rseling from the blow, Mr, Vickerstaff called for help, and although feeling dizzy from the effects of the blow, he tried to grapple with his attacker. The man, alarmed by the call for assistance, made off and disappeared through * vacant section on the other side of Cuba Street. Subsequently Mr. Vickerstaff had to receive medical attention, seven stitches being inserted in the wound on his head.