GAS WORKS APPEALS TO CITIZENS TO AID SUPPLY OF COAL

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 90, Issue 167, 20 July 1946, Page 5

GAS WORKS APPEALS TO CITIZENS TO AID SUPPLY OF COAL

BAKEHOUSES ARE SHORT So dire lias the plight of the Wanganui Gas Works become as the result of the shortage of coal that the works are prepared to collect bituminous coal from residents so that the works may be kept functioning as long as possible. Any person who possesses bituminous coal to spare could make it available to the gas authorities to help tide the works over until the coal shipment arrives. Unless coal is received the works will have to close.

The works now have enough coal to last out until Monday. Coal merchants in the town have been approached for any stocks they may have had, and. as a result, a few tons were collected. The yards have been swept out and a little more was got that way, but still there is not enough to last out beyond Moi> day. Bread bakers who have coke.burning ovens arc also facing a problem with the delay in the arrival of the collier Holmlea, and two of the bigger concerns in the city are af fected. One has enough coke and coal to last until only Wednesday. The gas works are unable to provide them with coke, as what coke that is coming out as residue from the retorts still functioning is to be used to start those that have gone out because of the lack of fuel. Wet weather has ruined the approaches and made inaccessabie an open cast coal mine ti the district. During the summer months a considerable tonnage of coal was secured from this source, but now the work there is at a standstill, and will probably not be resumed until summer.