Tuesday January 24th 1933

The manager Mr. Bedford away today. Sanson, the first hand, was in charge. Tunner and I at butter, slacking mostly.

Late tea by a roaring fire in the bowels of the earth – otherwise the cellar. Fire broke out in a timber yard nearby during the evening. Crimson sky- furious blaze – gaping crowds - huge flames. People throwing water on their house front. Paintwork became blistered and walls steamed. Firemen struggled to approach the flames. Barges used as bridges across the Foss. Still blazing when I went to bed at 11.30. I saw several scouts in the crowd. A short chat with one of them. He said that his group was the best in the county. Shall get in touch with his scout master.