TOLL OF THE GALE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22709, 23 October 1935, Page 9

TOLL OF THE GALE

SEVERAL VESSELS FOUNDER CREW OF ONE MISSING (British Official Wireless) (United Press Association) (By Electric Telegraph—Copyright) RUGBY. October 21. The great gale which swept the British Isles during 'ho week-end caused widespread damage on and and sea. When the storm was at its height gusts exceeding 90 miles an hour were registered. The most serious disasters occurred at sea. The cargo vessel Varduca, of the Donaldson Line, developed a severe list when 400 miles west of ihe Hebrides and the crew, to the number of iS7 were forced to abandon the sinking vessel and take to the boats.' Seven steamers reported that they were searching for the survivors, but so far they have found no trace of the vessel or lie crew. During the heavy weather in the North Sea the small British steamer Pendennis (2001 tons), of South Shields, sank about 50 miles north of the Frisian Islauds, off the Netherlands coast. A wireless appeal from the Peudennis brought the Norwegian steamer Iris to her assistance, and 22 members of the crew were saved. Thrilling rescues were made on the Cumberland coast when the Finnish vessel Esbo (3128 tons) went aground at Esbos. The crew, including three women, were saved by lifeboat and breeches buoy.