A large fire, but no effective brigade to deal with it

On Thursday, the 5th instant, a fire broke out at Victoria Farm buildings, Cottered, the property of Mr T.J. Stick, and in the tenancy of Mr Frank Charles.  Aroused by the barking of dogs, a number of village people hastened to the spot and, under the direction of PC Hayman, prevented the fire from extending to a thatched cottage which belonged to Mr W.J. Pitcher, of Hornsey, and was tenanted by Mr G. Smith.  A large barn, and several open sheds, including a cow shed, were burnt to the ground.  One of the inmates of the cottage, named Webb, an old man aged 92 who had been bedridden for 7 years, was carried out to a place of safety.

The property was all insured, and the origin of the fire in unknown.  The Buntingford fire engine was not present owing to the inability of the Brigade to obtain horses.  The fire has again emphasised the need of the Buntingford Union area, comprising 16 parishes, having an effective means of fire protection.