HILDERTHORPE FIRE TRAGEDY

Otago Daily Times, Issue 24792, 17 December 1941, Page 11

HILDERTHORPE FIRE TRAGEDY

INQUEST ON VICTIMS OPENED An inquest touching the death of William McPherson and Alice May Simpson, who perished in the fire at Hilderthorpe in the early hours of Sunday morning, was opened yesterday before Mr A. W. Woodward, J.P. (coroner). Senior Sergeant T. I. McGregor conducted the inquiry for the police. Evidence was given by Neil McPherson, who stated that William McPherson was a widower and had resided at Hilderthorpe for 16 years. He employed as his housekeeper Alice May Simpson. Kerosene lamps and candles were used for lighting purposes at the house, his brother using candles for that purpose in his bedioom. His financial position was quite satisfactory. He was a hard-working man and a very sound sleeper. In the opinion of witness, the fire at the house was caused accidentally. His brother had been shearing on Saturday, and he was evidently tired when he finished shearing, as the shed had not been cleaned up. He was between 78 and 80 years of age. Evidence on similar lines was given by John Simpson, brother of Alice May Simpson, and the inquest was adjourned sine die.

MOTOR DRIVERS WANTED Drivers are urgently required for the Lines of Communication Transport Companies in order that its personnel may be brought to war establishment immediately, and an appeal is made to all motor drivers, particularly those experienced in truck operation and maintenance, to offer their services to this important unit. Application should be made to the officer commanding No. 28 Company, Captain C, G. Meikle, Oamaru; Lieutenant G. S. Black, Maheno; or Lieutenant A. W. Callum, Tokarahi. Motor cyclists are also required. ITEMS OF INTEREST Complimentary Social.—A complimentary social was tendered to Driver G. Johnston in the Five Forks Hall recently. Mr J. Rutherford, on behalf of the residents, presented the guest with. a gift. Dance musi,c was supplied by Mrs Ellis and extras by Mrs Johnston.

TAHAKOPA Outbreak of Fire.—On Monday afternoon a fire which had been smouldering in an old sawdust patch in a paddock adjoining the Tahakopa School spread into the school property. Fanned by a strong wind, the fire rapidly spread into a belt of Lawsonia trees which were almost completely destroyed.. The flames then spread to the boys' play shed, which soon became a blazing mass. The school itself was threatened when the flames leapt across to the school wall, and only the strenuous efforts of a bucket brigade prevented it from catching fire. Apart from the blistering of the paint in one or two places, no damage was done to the school itself. A further outbreak occurred in a coke shed some 40 yards on the further side of the school, so that a spark must have travelled over the school to set this building alight. This outbreak was quickly extinguished. Some apparatus used in physical education and cricket material stored in the play shed was destroyed. Valuable work was done by the bucket brigade of 12 men, assisted by several women and senior pupils. The present school was erected about 10 years ago, and a scheme of beautification was commenced some years ago. There are several hundred elms, beeches, rowan trees, and silver beech trees in the. grounds, which- at the present time present a fine appearance'. The high wind experienced on Monday was responsible for an outbreak of fire in the bush owned by Latta Bros., sawmillers, at Stuarts. The fire did not do much damage, as it was brought under control before it had spread very far. It appears that a spark from the hauler ignited a tree about 40 feet in height. From the top of this tree showers of sparks fell, but the outbreaks were subdued when the tree was felled. Function for Women's Institute On Thursday night a successful function was held under the auspices of the Tahakopa branch of the Women's Institute, when members entertained friends and children. Competitions were indulged in, and an enjoyable time was spent. Mrs J. Stoddart (president) and Miss N. Rice (secretary) were at the head of the committee in charge.