On Friday night about 7.15, a barrel of solution, composed of highly inflammable constituents, caught fire in the rough stuff department of Messrs. W. Sargent and Co.’s factory, Crabb-street. It was surrounded by wooden packing cases and other inflammable goods, and was quite close to a door and a window. We understand that a bicycle lamp had just been lit and probably the smouldering match ignited the solution.

Mr. F. Darlow telephoned the fire Station and one of the smartest turn-outs accomplished by our local brigade was witnessed by an excited crowd. Considering that the members of the brigade do not reside on the premises it is astonishing how they managed to get on the scene so quickly. Within four minutes of the call a stream of water was being thrown on the flaming barrel. Capt. F. Knight, J.P., Second Officer G. R. Turner and third Officer R. F. Knight took command of the brigade, practically the whole of the members turning out. The hand-cart was quickly got out and run down Newton-road, along High-street South, to the bottom of Crabb-street, where there is a 12-inch water main. The hose was connected to this, and a powerful jet was soon being used. It answered practically as well as a forced jet from one of the steamers.

The flames, which had reached a great height, were reduced and eventually extinguished. The effect of the smart work by the brigade was that very little damage, comparatively speaking, was done and in 20 minutes there was no further fear of the fire spreading, as by that time the water had had its effect.

Beside the chief officers the following firemen were present :- Engineer Green, Resident-fireman Whiting, firemen A. Jaques, J. Sparrow, H. Payne, Timpson, Britchford, and Bollard.