CHURCH DESTROYED

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXXVII, Issue 19623, 18 October 1933, Page 6

CHURCH DESTROYED

NO FIRE FIGHTING FACILITIES. By Teiegrapn Press Association AUCKLAND. October 17. Lack of proper fire fighting facilities was responsible for the total destruction by fire of St. Paul’s Church of England. Huntly, to-night. The fire started near the ridge of the root at the rear of the church and although observed in its incipient stages, nothing could be done as there is no fire brigade in Huntly. When first seen the fire could have been extinguished with a few buckets of water If a long ladder had been available. The fire blazed fiercely for an hour and was spectacular when the tower and bell collapsed into the blazing ruins. Strenuous efforts on the part of the vicar, the Rev. E. R- Wright and a band of church officials, resulted in all the furnishings, Including the altar, organ and seats being saved. The church built of wood with an iron roof, was more than 35 years old, and was situated in the centre of the town. The main trunk railway runs close to the side of the site. It is thought possible that sparks from a passing engine might have caused the fire. The church was Insured for £SOO in the New Zealand office