George Flett, (1881-22/1/1917). "left the machine in gear"

A DISTRESSING ACCIDENT.

MR GEORGE FLETT'S DEATH. 

A most distressing accident occurred in Scotland street, Roxburgh, about 1.30 a.m. on Wednesday morning, when Mr George Flett, of the well-known motorcarrying firm of Muir and Flett, was run over by his lorry and as a result of the injuries sustained died at 3.30 a.m. on Monday morning. As far as can be gleaned the unfortunate man was on his way to Coal Creek to load fruit for Beaumont. After rounding the turn at Mr Jeffery's shop the engine stopped. Deceased, who was driving alone, got out to restart it but evidently left the machine in gear as when the engine was set in motion the lorry went forward, knocking him over. It would appear from the marks of the machine next morning that deceased had been dragged for eight or ten yards under the front axle and was released from this serious predicament when the forepart passed over a hollow on the side of the street. A few yards further on the front wheels came in contact with the kerbing in front of Mr J. Howell's house, the impact bringing it to a standstill. The noise of the lorry and the cries of deceased who called for help, awakened the neighbours who were on the scene immediately and summoned medical aid. When picked up deceased was lying under the rear of the lorry. He was removed into Mr Fred Laloli's house where Dr Gilmour did all he could for the sufferer whose spine, arms and legs were badly bruised in addition to chest complications.

The late Mr George Flett. who was born in the Orkney Islands, came to New Zealand about 14 years ago, his sister, who resides in Gore, coming out about 8 years later. About two years ago deceased entered into partnership with Mr Muir and inaugurated a motor carrying service between Roxburgh and Beaumont, the business being conducted under the style of Muir and Flett. The deceased was well-known throughout the Teviot district, being of a cheerful and agreeable disposition, winning the admiration of all with whom he came into contact both in and out of business.

"George." as he was more popularly known, was a man in whom everyone placed implicit faith, his transactions being characterised with a degree of sincerity which earned him the highest respect of the whole community. In other words he was a white man through and through, and the news of his untimely death was received with profound regret. He was 35 years of age and unmarried. The heartfelt sympathy of a very wide circle of friends goes out to Miss Flett in her sad bereavement.  -Mt Benger Mail, 24/1/1917.

Roxburgh Cemetery.