18th January 1924 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

On Friday last, before H.C. Marshall, Esq., in the chair, Claud Fraser, Esq., Mrs C.R. Dimsdale, and the Clerk (Mr H.M. Gisby).

A Sunday Morning Episode

Albert George Stacey, 42, of Green Hill, Braughing, appeared on a charge of being found in unlawful possession of a rabbit and two snares at Braughing.

P.c. Briden, of Braughing, said that on Sunday, 23rd December, at 10.55 a.m., he was on duty at Green Hill, Braughing, when he saw the defendant coming down Bell Lane.

He met him near Malting Cottages, where he stopped him, and told him he should search him. Defendant ran away, but witness caught him and on searching him found on him a rabbit and two snares. He told the defendant he should report the case.

The constable stated that Stacey was a single man. He was living at home, and was a good workman. He had not lost a day's working during the three-and-a-half years he (witness) had known him. His employer was Mr F. Brown of Braughing.

The skin and snares were then produced, and after consultation the Chairman said the snares would be confiscated, and the defendant would be fined 10s. including costs.

The fine was paid in court.

Probation Officer Re-appointed

The Probation Officer's annual report was submitted to the Bench.

The report showed that during the year there was one fresh case. The number at present under the care of Mr Andrews was two, one being a woman, and the other a man, both over 16. During the year four persons had completed their period of probation, and all four cases were satisfactory.

The Bench re-appointed Mr Andrews as Probation Officer, and the Chairman, who said he was sorry Mr Andrews was not pressent, asked the Clerk to convey to the officer congratulations on the excellent way he fulfilled his duties, and the thanks of the Bench for his work in the Buntingford area.

27th August 1926 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

Friday last, before Sir Charles Heaton-Ellis, C.B.E., and Captain H.H. Williams, with the Clerk (Mr H.M. Gisby).

No Licence

William Brown, of Harestreet, Buntingford, was charged with keeping a dog without a licence.

P.c. Gillett gave evidence of calling on defendant at 10 p.m. on 21st June.

The Chairman, who referred to the absence of the defendant from Court, said there would be a fine of 10/- with 4/- costs.

A Motor Case: Sequel to an Accident

Cecil Charles, of Cottered, was summoned for driving a motor car without having efficient brakes attached, at Buntingford, on 14th July.

P.c. Williams, of Buntingford, stated that he was called to the scene of an accident during the afternoon of 14th July.

On arrival he found that a motor lorry, owned by Mr Charles of Cottered, had collided with a Calthorpe car at the junction of Baldock Road. He noticed a skid mark made by the front wheels of the lorry; there were no skid marks from the rear wheels. The road was in good condition.

On Friday, 16th June, in company with P.s. Dean, he examined the brakes and hooter of the damaged lorry which had been removed to the Tanyard. Both the front and rear brakes were inefficient; the front brake when pulled back had no effect on the brake, and when the foot brake was pressed down it went easily on the casting.

On Wednesday, 21st July, in company with the defendant and Sergeant Dean, he again inspected the loory. The rear wheel was jacked up, and although the hand brake was pulled on the wheel turned easily. He asked the driver for an explanation, and he replied that a new band had been recently put on the hand brake, and that both brakes were in order.

Cross-examined by Mr Reginald Hartley, solicitor, of Royston, who represented defendant, the constable stated that he had had little experience with motor cars. He did not examine the brakes on the day of the accident. The brake guide was not disconnected when he first examined the lorry.

P.c. Gillett stated that he was present when the lorry was examined by the last witness. He tested the brakes, and neither of them had any control over the amchine. The foot brake required taking up.

Cross-examined by Mr Hartley, the constable said the front part of the lorry was badly damaged.

Alfred Hale Hedges, motor engineer, of Buntingford, gave evidence of inspecting the damaged lorry at the Tanyard. The foot brake pedal went down on top of the transmission case casting without gripping the bands. The brake required taking up. The hand brake lever could be pulled right back, and judging from his experience the two brakes had no control over the car.

Cross-examined by Mr Hartley, witness said he had had 22 years' experience with motors. Since the war he had done a lot of work on Ford cars. The Ferodo lining might last two weeks or perhaps six months, it all depended on the quality. The brakes were intact when he examined the lorry. The brake guides would have no effect on the breaking.

In reply to the Chairman, witness said in his opinion the accident to the front part of the lorry had no effect upon the brakes.

Cecil Charles, the driver, stated that the brakes had been re-lined in June. He had used both brakes just before the accident, and they were efficient.

Herbert Crowe, motor engineer, of Stevenage, who stated that he had had nine years' experience with motors, said he examined the damaged lorry on Thursday, 19th August. The hand brake was holding on the off-side rear wheel but not on the near side. 

When he replaced the brake rod in the brake guide he found that the brake operated on both wheels. The front of the lorry was badly damaged, and he thought that the collision threw the brakes out of the guide. It was not possible to test the foot brake as the engine could not be started.

Mr Frank Charles, the owner of the car, gave evidence of driving the vehicle on the day previous to the accident, and said the car stood on a hill although it was loaded with 50 trusses of straw.

Alfred Baker, of Ware, gave evidence of witnessing the accident, and stated that the defendant was travelling slowly at the time and would not require brakes to pull up.

The Bench retired, and on their return, the chairman said they had given the case very careful consideration, and had come to the conclusion that there was not sufficient evidence to warrant a conviction.

It was somewhat unfortunate that the condition of the lorry was not examined on the day of the accident by an expert.

28th January 1927 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

Cambridge Undergraduate Fined for Dangerous Driving

Foxhounds Injured by Motorist

Friday last, before Sir Charles Heaton-Ellis C.B.E., and Captain H.H. Williams.

John Daniel Hawthorn (21), of Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge, appeared on a charge of drivinga motor car in a manner dangerous to the public, at Buckland, on 20th November.

The defendant, who was represented by Mr Grafton Pryor, Barrister, of Cambridge, pleaded not guilty.

Mr G. Passingham, Solicitor of Hitchen, outlined the case for the prosecution. On November 20th (the case had been adjourned till now, because of the defendant's absence in America), the Puckeridge Hounds had just drawn a wood, and were on the highway between Buntingford and Royston, when a car, driven by the defendant, appeared two or three hundred yards away.

The car was travelling at a very fast pace, and the huntsman held up his hands as a signal for the driver to slow down. The drive did nothing till he was within 20 yards of the pack when he put on his brakes and skidded into the hounds, injuring three couples.

Robert Gardner, the Huntsman of the Puckeridge Hunt, said he was in charge of the pack on the day in question. The hounds were on the road when he saw a car about 200 yards away, and put up his hand as a signal to the drive to slow down. The driver did not try to stop till he got within 15 to 20 yards, when he put the brakes on, and the car skidded into the pack. Three or more couples were knocked over, one hound being pinned under the car.

Cross-examined by Mr Grafton Pryor: It was a wet day and the road was greasy.

P.S. Dean, of Buntingford, said that the width of the road at the point of collision was 17ft. 6in.

James Hewins, 1st Whip, corroborated the evidence of the Huntsman. While the hounds were being extricated from under the car, the defendant admitted that he saw the huntsman hold up his hand.

Arthur W. Griffin, the seocnd whip, also gave evidence.

Mrs E. Hargreaves, of Royston, said she was riding directly behind the pack on the day in question, when she saw a large motor car coming down the road at great speed. The came right on top of the pack, and the hounds were howling and screaming, some being pinned under the car. Some of the hounds were carried along on the front axle.

The defendant, in a statement made from the witness box, said he was the owner of the car, which was a 30-98 Vauxhall. It had four-wheel brakes, and was known as a "super-sports" model. On the date of the accident he was driving from Royston to Ware, and his speed was about 35 m.p.h.

As he came over the rise, he saw a man on horseback and thought he was meeting a detachment of soldiers. He put on his brakes, but the car kept going as the brakes would not hold. The hounds took up all the road, and there was no room for the car to pass. As soon as he realised what he had done, he jumped out and apologised. He had been driving a car for nine years, and had never been charged before.

Anthony Patrick Adamson, of Jesus College, who was riding in the front seat with the defendant at the time of the accident, also gave evidence. He said that the defendant did all in his power to pull the car up.

Jeffrey Thomas, another undergraduate, of Trinity Hall, who was sitting at the back of the car, said the defendant applied his brakes as soon as he saw the Huntsman raise his hand.

Addressing the Bench, Mr Pryor said that no one regretted the accident more than Mr Hawthorn. The defendant was not in the habit of driving at great speed and, as the Bench had heard, he had been driving a car for nine years, and had not been previously charged. The brakes of the car were defective and the weather conditions were bad. He (Mr Pryor) hoped that the Bench would "temper the wind of the defendant because of his clean sheet."

The Bench retired for ten minutes, and on returning, the Chairman said the charge against defendant had been proved. He wished to say that it was a very serious offence indeed to drive a high-powered car on a slightly foggy day down hill at the excessive speed of 35 miles per hour, whether there were sheep or hounds on the road.

The Bench had very seriously considered whether to suspect the defendant's licence for a considerable period but after what his Solicitor had said they had decided to inflict a fine of £5 and £3 7s. 0d. cost.

The defendant's licence would also be endorsed.

Ardeley Fowl Stealing Charge

H.G. Stroud, of Wood End, Ardeley, appeared on a charge of fowl stealing at Ardeley. The defendant, an Ex-Sergt. of the Garrison Artillery, had an excellent record, which saved him from prison, the Magistrates imposing a fine of £5 and 15/- costs.

Evidence was given by William H. Livings, a farmer of Gt. Munden, who said that on January 12th he received information that his fowlhouse at Orange End had been broken into. He saw footmarks near the house, and later found that 28 fowls were missing. These he valued at 10/- each. The defendant had previously been to him and asked for work.

P.S. Dean gave evidence of interviewing the defendant in company with Inspector Herbert.

Defendant at first denied all knowledge of the matter, but later told the Sergeant that he had taken 12 fowls, and hearing that the police were making enquiries as to their loss, he took them to a field and released them. The Sergeant and the Inspector went to the field, but there was no trace of the fowls.

Supt. Wright said the defendant had served 11 years in the Army, having served in France from 1915 to the end of the war. After the war he obtained work as a temporary postman, and later was employed at Woolwich Arsenal, where he was discharged in September, 1925, with a good character. He was a married man with two children.

The Chairman said it was a dreadful thing to see a man in defendant's position. Here was a man with a excellent character stooping to petty foggy stealing. He, the Chairman, saw no reason why the defendant should not go to prison.

Mr Livings said he was prepared to assist the defendant, whereupon the Chairman said that defendant would have to pay Mr Livings £5 and the Court costs 15/-, further than that the defendant would be placed on probation for 12 months.

"Mr Livings has treated you very leniently," said the Chairman to the defendant.

14th January 1927 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

Friday last, before Mr J. Howard-Carter (in the chair), Capt. H.H. Williams and Mr Claud Fraser.

Election of Chairman and Vice-Chairman

The Chairman proposed and Mr Claud Fraser seconded that Sir Charles Heaton-Ellis, C.B.E., be re-elected Chairman for the ensuing year.

Mr Claud Frader proposed and Capt. H.H. Williams seconded that The Hon. Baron Dimsdale be re-elected Vice-Chairman.

Probation Officer's Report

Mr H. Andrews submitted his annual report.

During the year five persons had been placed on probation by the Buntingford Justices. Two had finished their probation leaving three.

At the 15 courts attended by the Probation Officer, 111 persons had been placed under probation during the year. Of this number 105 had been good during 1926.

The chairman complimented Mr Andrews on his excellent report.

No Light

Arthur F. Coventry, of 27, Park Avenue, Timperley, Cheshire, was summoned for riding a motor cycle without a front light.

P.C. Gillett proved the case, and the defendant, who did not appear, was fined 40/- including costs.

Motor Case

Frederick C. Shadbolt, of Rye Park, Hoddeson, was charged with driving a motor car without a front light. There was a second charge of driving a car without have the rear index plate illuminated.

P.C. Williams, who proved the case, stated that he was on duty near the new railway bridge when he saw a car coming from the direction of Buntingford. There was no rear light, and no off-side extreme light. The head lamps were alight.

The defendant said his lamps had fused and that owing to his bright headlights he did not notice that the extreme off-side light was not working. His rear lamp was alight when he left Royston.

The Chairman said the magistrates had decided to take a lenient view of the matter. There would be a fine of 15/- including costs.

A Sunday Morning Episode

Cyril Robinson (23), a plasterer, and William Manning (60), a labourer, both of Norfolk Road, Buntingford, were summoned for trespassing in search of conies at Throcking on Sunday, 5th December last.

P.C. Hill, of Chipping, said he was patrolling the Buntingford - Throcking Road, when he saw the men in a field with a dog. Manning was carrying a gun. He called out to the defendants and Manning ran away.

Mr B. Nicholls, of Little Court, said the shooting on the land in question was hired by Captain Denny, and no permission to shoot on the land had been given to defendants.

In defence, Manning told the Bench that he went to Throcking to keep the rooks off of Mr Poulton's corn - he merely walked up the side of the hedge of the field where the trespass was said to have been committed. He did not run away when the Constable called.

Robinson, who pleaded not guilty, said he had nothing to say.

The Chairman said the Bench found both men guilty. Manning would be fined 10/- and Robinson 5/-.

A Cartage Contractor in Trouble

Magnus K. Smith, a cartage contractor, of Buntingford, was charged with failing to pay weekly contributions under the National Health and the Unemployment Insurance Acts. There were seven charges in respect of three employees - A.A. Smith, F.G. Howard and E. Gatward.

The defendant pleaded Not Guilty to all except two charges for failing to to affix unemployment stamps in respect of F. Howard and A. Smith.

Mr Robert Watson appeared for the prosecution and in outlining the case, said that all the defendant's employees were subject to both Unemployment and Health Insurance. There was no excuse for not stamping the cards, as if the employees failed to present their cards the employer should have obtained emergency cards from the Post Office and the local Labour Exchange.

The defendant was visited by a Government Inspector on 26th March, who found that the Books and Cards were not stamped.

On the Inspector's second visit on 13th October, he found that the books and cards were still unstamped, and he asked for the books to be handed over. This the defendant refused to do.

The three employees then gave evidence.

Mr Edwin E. Elwell an Inspector of the Ministry of Health Insurance, in giving evidence, said he interviewed the defendant on 26th March at the Buntingford Railway Station in the presence of his employees. He next saw him at Buntingford on 13th October, and again on 20th October, when he asked him whether the cards were stamped and whether he had obtained unemployment books from his employees. The defendant told him that he had not.

Mr Harry Clarke, Branch Manager at the Ministry of Labour, said that defendant had been reported to him on two or three occasions owing to the trouble of getting unemployment books.

The defendant told the Bench that he had paid Health Insurance since the Act came into force. He had never deducted any money for Insurance from his men's wages. When he employed Smith he asked about his cards and he told him that he had never had any. He (the defendant) went to the Prudential Agent and obtained a card for Smith and stamped it up. He had also been to the Labour Exchange for Howard's Unemployment Book but was told that the Inspector had taken it away.

Defendant to Mr Watson - "Why are half-yearly stamps used."

Mr Watson - "You can use them if you pay your men half-yearly, but do you know that persons using them must stamp the cards at the beginning of the half-year."

The defendant - "But they never do." (Laughter).

The defendant then handed over stamped cards and books in respect of two of his employees.

The Bench retired, and on returning the Chairman said they had carefully considered the case. They were of opinion that the greatest patience and consideration had been shown by the Inspectors, and the case was aggravated by the practical ignoring of the many warnings that defendant had been given.

Under the circumstances the Bench could see their way to impose no smaller fine than £2 on each summons.  To this would be added the Courts Fees £1 15s. 6d. and the Prosecutions Fee £2 2s. 0d. There would also be an order for payment of the arrears now outstanding (£2 5s.) making the total amount payable £20 2s. 6d.

The defendant asked for time to pay, and was allowed one month.

11th February 1927 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

Friday last, before Sir Charles Heaton-Ellis, C.B.E., and Claud Fraser, Esq.

Licensing

Inspector Herbert presented the annual report respecting licensed premises in the Division.

There were, he said, 33 fully licensed premises, 8 licensed for consumption "on the premises," four "off" licenses, and one grocer's licence, making a total of 46.

During the year, four licenses had been transferred. No licensee had been proceeded against, and there had only been one male convicted of drunkenness.

The Inspector then stated the times of the licensed hours in force in the Division.

The Chairman said the Bench were very satisfied with the report. It was satisfactory to the Bench, the Police and the Public, and the Bench wished to express their appreciation.

The application for the full transfer of the licence fo "The White Hart" Public House, Buntingford, from Harry Woodley to Mary Jane Woodley was granted.

A Cottered Theft Charge

Victor John Ginn (21), of Broadfield, Buntingford, appeared on a charge of stealing middlings and meal at Cromer, Stevenage, on 24th January, 1927. The defendant pleaded "Guilty."

Mr W.H. Kittow, farmer, of Bancroft, Cottered, said he sent the defendant with six bags of meal and five bags of middlings from Bancroft to Luffenhall Farm.

He was passing through Cromer between 3 and 4 p.m. on the day in question, when he saw the defendant turn his horse and cart into "The Chequers" yard. He (the witness) thought it strange, so he approached the defendant, who told him that he was taking some potatoes for Mr Gray to a Mr Paul. 

The witness then looked in a shed at "The Chequers" and saw four sacks of meal. He opened the bags and found that the meal was quite warm, having just come from the mill.

The defendant, who at first denied leaving the meal there, later admitted that he left one bag. He saw him again later, when he admitted leaving one bag of meal and three of middlings. The defendant, who had been in his employ for some time was receiving 34/6 per week.

P.C. Hill, of Chipping, said on receiving information from Mr Kittow he visited "The Chequers" yard, Cromer, in company with Sergt. Dean.

He later saw the defendant and conveyed him to Buntingford Police Station, where he made a statement to the effect that on 24th January he was ordered to take six bags of meal and five bags of dan to Luffenhall. He left three bags of dan and one of meal at Cromer for Mr M. Gray, who had asked him to bring him some.

Montague Grey, of Cottered, a farmer and dealer, was then charged with receiving the stolen middlings and meal. He pleaded "Not guilty."

Mr W.H. Kittow repeated his former evidence, and added that on the evening of the day of the offence Gray came up to see him.

The defendant Gray told witness that he was very sorry for what had happened, but said that he was not there when the meal was delivered at his building, and that he did not know anything about it. Mr Kittow added that he had known Gray for many years, and if he had known that he was short of meal he would willingly have sent him some.

P.C. Hill said he saw the defendant Gray in company with Mr Kittow on 25th January, when Gray made a statement to the effect that he saw Ginn two or three days previous to the offence and asked him to bring him some meal from Walkern Mill or Kitchener's.

He visited his premises at Cromer on Monday, 24th January, and found four bags of meal in a cart shed. He later saw Mr Kittow and told that the meal was not his (defendant's). He had never bought any stuff off of Ginn in his life, and he did not want other people's stuff in his shed.

In a statement to the Bench, the defendant said that Ginn had previously bought meal for him from Walkern Mill and from Cromer Mill. As the roads were in such a bad state, he could not get out with his own horse, so he asked Ginn to [word erased] him some meal from Cromer [or?] Walkern Mill or Mr Kitchen[er's] at Walkern.

He was not at "The Chequers" when the meal was left there by Ginn, and he was very sorry that Ginn had left it there on that occasion.

Inspector Herbert said that the defendant was a man of good character.

After consultation, the Chairman addressing Ginn said he had pleaded guilty to a very serious charge. The Bench, however, had decided to take a lenient view of the case, and instead of sending the defendant to prison he would be fined £2 and 15/- costs, and would be placed under probation for a period of two years.

With reference to Gray's case, the Chairman said the Bench did not consider that there was sufficient evidence to convict, and the case would be dismissed.

A Housing Tangle

Robert H. Clark, of High Street, Royston, made application for an ejectment order against Mrs Fox, for the possession of a cottage occupied by her at Buntingford.

Mr R. Clark, jun., said he father had been served with a notice by the Buntingford Rural District Council to put the property into habitable repair. His father was willing to do this provided he could get possession of the cottage. At present there were seven persons living in two rooms.

The Clerk: Is the rent in arrear?

Mr Clark: No.

The Clerk: Then the Bench cannot grant an ejectment order.

Mr Clark: Then what am I to do? The Council have served us with a statutory notice, signed by the Medical Officer of Health, and we cannot do the repairs necessary till the place is unoccupied.

The Clerk: The Council must take action themselves.

Mr Clark: It comes back on the owner every time. I had a similar case at Melbourn some years ago, and the Bench issued an ejectment order.

The Clerk: Yes, that was before the Rent Restriction Act come into force.

Mr Clark: I don't want to press for an ejectment, but you see our position. We are being pressed by the District Council, and yet we cannot get possession of the house. It is impossible to do the necessary repairs while the people are living there.

The Chairman: If the Council have condemned the property then they must close it.

Mr Clark: They have not condemned it, but have served us with a notice to put it in habitable repair.

The Clerk: The Council must take action under Section 11 of the Housing Act, 1925. This Bench has no power to issue an ejectment order under the circumstances of the case.

18th March 1927 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

A Tottenham Youth's Escapade

A bright and intelligent Tottenham schoolboy, aged 13 and a half years, appeared before two magistrates on Friday last, on a charge of stealing a gent's bicycle at Braughing on 7th March. There was a further charge of stealing a bicycle at Tottenham on the same date.

The boy rode the bicycle he had stolen from Tottenham to Dassels, where he saw another gent's cycle outside a cottage and decided to leave the one he had ridden from Tottenham, and tide off on the one he saw at Dassels.

The cycle he stole at Braughing happened to belong to an ex-policeman, Mr Joseph Briden, and although the lad had a good start, Mr Briden soon had the two bicycles and the lad in his custody.

The boy was brought before Capt. H.H. Williams at an Occasional Court on Tuesday in last week, and remanded until the following Friday, when the case was heard by Mr Claud Fraser and Captain H.H. Williams.

Mr Joseph Briden, of Braughing, said on Monday, 7th March, he left his cycle outside a cottage at Dassels.

When he came out of the cottage, he found that his cycle had disappeared and that another was lying on the side of the road about 10 yards away.

On making enquiries he learned that a lad, riding a cycle too high for him, had been seen going in the direction of Ware. The witness road on, and about 1 mile from Puckeridge he saw his cycle lying on the side of the road; he also saw a lad hurrying along the footpath. Asked what he was doing, the lad admitted stealing the machine, and the witness detained him till P.C. Barker arrived.

P.C. Barker then gave evidence of taking charge of the lad at Puckeridge, and read a very concise statement which the lad made to him at the Police Station.

The lad stated that while at tea on Sunday, 6th March, his father and step-mother accused him of stealing some silk stockings, which he denied. When he returned from Church his father swore at him and sent him to bed.

During the night he made up his mind to run away, and at 6.30 a.m. the next morning, he got up and waited till his father had gone to work. He left the house at 8 a.m. and walked towards Edmonton, and turned into White Hart Lane where he saw a cycle standing outside a shop.

He took the cycle, and rode along the arterial road and on to a place called Harestreet, where he decided to turn around and go home. About 1 and a half miles from Harestreet he saw another cycle outside a cottage, and as he thought he could ride it better than the one he had he exchanged the machines; later he found he could not reach it properly, so he laid it down and walked on until he was stopped by a man, who asked him what he was doing.

Mr H.T. Cawthorne, of Walthamstowe, said the cycle stolen from Tottenham belonged to him. He valued the machine at £2.

On being charged with the offences, the young pleaded guilty. His step-mother who was in Court, told the Bench that she could do nothing with the lad - he was a real naughty boy.

After a short adjournment, the Chairman, addressing the lad, said the magistrates were very sorry to see him before them. Having regard to his age, they had decided to adopt a lenient view, and he would be placed under the supervision of Mr Andrews, the Probation Officer, for a period of two years.

The boy, wiping his tears with his school cap, siad "Thank you, Sir," to the Chairman, and left the Court with Mr Andrews.

11th March 1927 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

Friday last, before Sir Charles Heaton-Ellis (in the Chair), Captain H.H. Williams and Claud Fraser, Esq.

Sequal to a Fog Mishap [original article]

Eric Lancelot Routh, of East Hoathley, Sussex, was summoned by the Police for driving a motor car in a manner dangerous to the public, at Buckland on 14th February, 1927.

The defendant, who pleaded not guilty, was defended by Mr Walter Frampton, jun., instructed by Messrs. Lloyd and Armstrong, of London, W.C.

Edward Ellis Mildren, of Buckland House, Buckland, said on 14th February he took four bullocks to Buntingford Market, he drove them back to Buckland during the afternoon, leaving Buntingford at 2.45 p.m.

Between Chipping and Buckland he heard a car approaching from the direction of Buckland. There was a thick fog at the time, and he was unable to see more than 20 or 30 yards. He put up his hands for the car to stop, and called out to a boy who was ahead of the bullocks to do the same.

The witness then tried to get the bullocks on one side, but as the car did not appear to pull up, he jumped into the hedge; as he did so he heard the car crash into one of the bullocks which was carried down the road about 40 yards.

Witness went down and helped to get the bullock from underneath the car, and after staggering for some yards, the bullock fell down and had to be slaughtered.

In answer to Supt. Wright witness said the weight of the bullock was approximately 12 cwt. It was foggy all the way from Buntingford.

Cross-examined by Mr Frampton: The car was on its right side.

William A. Sell, a lad of 15, in the employ of Mr Mildren, said he was in front of the bullocks when he heard a car approaching. He saw a car through the fog, and the next instant it hit one of the bullocks and knocked it along the ground. It was a very foggy afternoon.

Police Constable Williams said he received a message to the effect that a car had collided with a bullock in Chipping. He went to the scene of the accident where he saw an Essex Six car on the near-side of the road. He measured a skid mark which was 156 feet long. The width of the road at the spot where the car was alleged to have hit the bullock was 20 feet.

Cross-examined: The car too up about 9ft. 9in. of the road, leaving 10ft. 3in. to the good.

P.S. Dean, of Buntingford, said the defendant reported to him that he had hit a bullock on the road near Chipping; the defendant stated at the time that his speed was about 20 m.p.h.

The defendant, an Ex-Army Capt. with the M.C. and bar, said he was returning from Huntingdon on 14th February. As he was nearing Chipping, he ran into a mist which grew thicker.

He saw some cattle ahead, and instantly applied his brakes; he felt the front wheels of the car skid, and he found that it was impossible to avoid hitting one of the beasts which strayed across the road. His speed at the time was between 20 and 30 m.p.h. He paid a man to tow the car off the bullock.

Addressing the Bench, Mr Frampton said it was most difficult to judge the speed of a car coming towards you. There was a bank about 2 ft. high on the near-side of the road, and had Capt. Routh chosen this instead of the bullock, it might have led to more disastrous results. The owner of the bullock had been compensated for its loss.

The magistrates retired, and on returning, the Chairman said in their opinion it was a suitable case for the police to have brought forward; the evidence, however, did not lead them to the conclusion that there was sufficient evidence to convict.

The Bench wished to say that proper precautions were taken by the driver of the bullocks. It was one of those deplorable accidents which were difficult to evade in a thick fog.

School Attendance

Charles Glasscock, of Baldock Road, Buntingford, was summoned for not causing Joseph Wick to attend school regularly.

The attendance officer, Mr B.E. Thody, stated that the child had made 81 out of 96 attendances. The chairman said that an attendance order would be made.

Dog Licenses

Applications for exemption from dog licenses were considered and granted.

A Lady and Justice

The Chairman said that a letter had been received from Mrs Edis to the effect that she wished to speak from the Market Hill on the subject of Justice.

The Chairman said he was afraid it was not a matter for the magistrates to deal with, but perhaps the Police would look into the lady's request.

8th April 1927 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

Friday last, before Col. Sir Charles Heaton-Ellis, C.B.E., Claud Fraser and Capt. H.H. Williams.

No Lights

Percy Hanley, a waiter, of Great Hormead, was fined 10/- and 4/- costs for riding a cycle without a light at Great Hormead.

Furious Driving

Charles Cummer, of 23, Gordon Road, Edmonton, was summoned for furiously driving a horse and van at Buntingford. 

Evidence was given by P.C. Gillett who said that on 23rd March he heard a horse and van coming down the high street at full gallop. The driver was beating the horse with a steel lined stock.

The witness followed the van to the bridge where the defendant gave his name as Albert Brown, afterwards giving his correct name as Cummer.

The van narrowly missed hitting a car near the George Hotel, and again at the Post Office.

Mrs Fell said she saw the horse and van coming down the street at a terrific rate. There were a number of children in the road, and as she thought there would be an accident she followed the van down the High Street.

The Chairman, who thanked Mrs Fell for coming forward in a public spirited way, said there would be a fine of £3 and costs.

Licensing

Twenty seven applications for exemption from dog licence duty were granted by the Bench, Supt. Wright stating that the Police had no objections.

3rd June 1927 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

Friday last, before Sir Charles Heaton-Ellis (in the chair), H.C. Marshall, William Steel, G.C. Coutts-Deacon, and G.W. Pepper, Esps. The last three named gentlemen took their seats on the Bench for the first time.

No Licence

Charles Clark, of 20, Balmouth Road, Borough, London, was charged with driving a motor lorry without being duly licensed, at Chipping.

P.C. Hill, who proved the case, said that he stopped the defendant, who was driving a six-wheeled vehicle, at 2.30 a.m. The defendant told him that he had lost his licence since last November.

A fine of £2, including costs, was imposed.

A Regrettable Case

What was described by all parties concerned as a very regrettable case, came before the Bench, when Daisy Hilda Page (aged 17), of Rushden, Buntingford, made application for an affiliation order against John Sydney Lyon (aged 15), also of Rushden.

The case lasted nearly two hours, the complainant being in the witness box for an hour.

After a short adjournment, the Chairman said that the Bench had given the case their very deepest and sincerest consideration, and they were of the opinion that there was inssuficient evidence to make an order.

The case would, therefore, be dismissed.

A Rate Summons

Harry D. Piper, of "Wedlands," Hare Street, Buntingford, did not appear to a summons for non-payment of Poor Rate.

Mr W.C. Kitchen, the Assistant Overseer, was granted a distress warrant.

30th July 1926 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

Friday last, before Sir Charles Heaton-Ellis (Chairman), The Hon. Baron Dimsdale, Capt. H.H. Williams, H.C. Marshall and Claud Fraser, Esqs.

Congratulations to the Chairman

A very pleasing and well-deserved tribute was paid to the Chairman before the business of the Court commenced. The Hon. Baron Dimsdale moved that thhe Bench take that opportunity of according hearty congratulations to their Chairman on the well-earned distinction conferred upon him by their Sovreign Lord the King.

They then ably referred in the meritorious terms to the splendid service Sir Charles had done for the county, not only on that Bench, but in many other branches of unpaid work. It was a credit to them that their Chairman had been marked out for this honur.

Mr G.H. Gisby, the Senior Joint Clerk to the Magistrates, said on behalf of the clerical staff, he should like to associate himself with the congratulations of the Chairman. All agreed it was a well deserved honour. He had been connected with that Court for upwards of half-a-century, and had had experience of many Chairmen of that Bench, and in no case had the dignity of the Bench been kept up, and justice better administered than during the Chairmanship of Sir Charles.

He could not call to mind an honour received in the county with more unanimity and goodwill. The interests of Sir Charles covered a wide ground. He then alluded to the good work the Chairman had done in Ecclesiastical and Educational matters, and the responsible duties he discharged in such a distinguished manner in the Boer War, and again in the recent war.

In county matters, it was an advantage to have the counsel and assistance of Sir Charles acting in the public interest. It was to men of this stamp they had to look in the future to further the welfare and honour of country.

Supt. Wright, on behalf of the Chief Constables and the police of the division, said they were all proud that an honour had been bestowed on the Chairman.

Mr H.C. Marshall seconded the motion, proposed by Baron Dimsdale, and it was carried with great cordiality.

Sir Charles, on thanking them for their warm expressions of appreciation of the efforts he had made on behalf of the county, said what he valued most were the tributes of goodwill he had received from old friends and associates. He had done very little; others had done infinitely more, and to their good work he owed the honour that had been conferred upon him.

He remembered well Mr Gisby's father, who was clerk of that Bench, and he then spoke highly of the wise counsel they had received from their clerk, enabling the business of the Court to be conducted so satisfactorily. He thanked them again for their kind expressions - it was these that made the honour so valuable to him.

There were no cases before the Court, and the only business transacted related mostly to licensing.

A full transfer was granted of the licence of "The Bell" Inn, Cottered (owners Messrs. Christine and Co) from Alice Clements to George William Alder.

The Buntingford Horticultural Show is fixed for next Thursday. This led to two applications to which Supt. Wright offered no objections. Mr William Warner, of "The Bull" Public House, was allowed an extension of hours on the day from 2.30 to 6 p.m., and an occasional licence was granted to Mr J. Holmes, of "The George" Hotel, who will have a refreshment tent on the show ground.

Structural alterations at "The Crown" Inn. Mr L.J. Gomme, architect for Messrs. Christie & Co., produced plans for the addition of a new tea and dining room to the premises of "The Crown" Inn, of which Mr Mannox is the licensee. The Bench examined the plan and granted the application.

2nd July 1926 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

Friday last, before Col. C.H.B. Heaton-Ellis (in the chair), The Hon. Baron C.R. Dimsdale, Captain H.H. Williams, and D. Crossman, C. Fraser and H.C. Marshall Esqs.

An Assault Case

Thomas Charles, of Harestreet, was summoned for assaulting Jonah Brown, of Sandon Road, Buntingford.

In his evidence the paintiff stated that the defendant jeered at him when he passed on 17th May. On June 3rd he stopped him in the High Street, and said he would hit plaintiff with a stick. Witness went up the Harestreet Road, where defendant struck him on the arm and shoulder.

Herbert Barron, of Harestreet, and George Jackson, of Buntingford, gave evidence on behalf of the defendant. Mr G.H. Maughan represented the plaintiff.

After hearing all the evidence the Chairman said it appeared that there was a long standing feud between the two. There was no doubt that the defendant did assault the plaintiff, as was shown by the medical certificate.

Defendant would be bound over for six months in the sum of £10.

Buntingford Farm Labourer Committed to Trial for Thefts

Cecil Henry Wood (26), a farm labourer, of Baldock Lane, Buntingford, was brought up in the custody of two warders from Brixton and charged with three separate offences, which, except for an hour's interval, occupied the Court till 2.45 p.m.

He was first charged with breaking into and stealing from Messrs. Forrest Stores, Ltd., Buntingford, property of the value of £1 13s. 4d. on the night of 17th and 18th June last.

Thomas Chamberlain Bayman, manager of the branch shop of Forrest Stores, Ltd., High Street, Buntingford, said on June 18th at 7.30 a.m. he went to the lock-up shop straight through to get a sack barrow. He found one of the four panes of the window of the door at the back broken and the bolts drawn back.

He was the last to leave the previous night when the door was securely fastened. Witness to the barrow to his home and then went to the police station and returned to the shop with P.S. Dean. He showed P.S. Dean the till, which the previous night contained 25s., and it was absolutely empty. All the drawers behind the counter were open. The cake case had been opened, some chocolate squares taken and a small caramel bitten and replaced on the case.

He was subsequently shown the same morning at 10.30 a bottle of sherry partly empty, four packets of cigarettes and 1 and three quarter packets of chocolate, of the total value of 7/9, all of which were produced and identified as having been in stock at the stores.

P.S. Dean, stationed at Buntingford, said he received a report from thr last witness and went with him to the shop. He found an entrance had been effected by breaking the glass and drawing the bowls of the door at the rear of the shop.

He took possession of the caramel produced, and found on it two distinct teeth marks. He searched the premises and at the rear the ground was wet, and he saw distinct foot-marks of hob nailed boots with toe and heel tips.

In company with P.C. Williams he traced these foot-marks along the footpath leading from High Street to Baldock Lane. Near Back Lane he saw the prisoner pass, and noticing his pockets were bulky called on him to stop. As he went towards him he noticed the footprints made by the prisoner corresponded exactly with those he had seen at the rear of Forrest Stores.

When asked what he had in his pockets he said "nothing". Witness searched him and found in the lining of his coat the gun produced and three cartridges. He said he had no gun licence. Witness told him his footprints corresponded with those found at the rear of Forrest Stores and that he suspected him of breaking into the stores, and he replied "I should not do a thing like that."

He gave his correct name and address, and refused to have his house searched, so witness took him into custody. On the way to the Police Station he threw the gun down and bolted. Witness ran and caught him, and he said "I'm not coming with you; I was out of work and hungry, and that is what made me steal."

At the station witness asked him to bite the caramel produced, which he did, and the marks corresponded exactly with those on the one found in the shop. He then said "I did break into Forrest Stores and steal some money and things, and you will find them on a table at my house."

In company with P.C. Voller and P.C. Williams, witness went to the prisoner's house and found on the kitchen table 25/5 in money, 1 and three quarter bars of chocolate, four packets of cigarettes and a bottle of sherry (three-parts full), all of which were prdouced. These were shown to him, and he said "That is all I took."

When charged the prisoner made no reply, and told the Bench he did not wish to say anything.

-----

The second charge was that of breaking and entering the premises of Mr A.S. Grigg, of Cockhampstead Farm, Braughing, and stealing property of the value of £1 11s. 2d. on the night of the 27th and 28th March last.

Theodore Austin Grigg, farmer, assisting his father at Cockhampstead Farm, said on March 27th he went out in the evening and came in just before 11 o'clock, and went to bed at 11.30 p.m.

The next morning he came down at 7 a.m. he discovered that his father's desk in the dining room had been broken open. He went into the kitchen to see if the door had been forced,but it was all right. The bottom half of the window was wide open, by which someone had entered. He went upstairs and told his father.

Albery Scantlebury Grigg, of Cockhampstead Farm, said in consequence of what his son said on the morning of March 28th he examined his desk in the dining room which he kept locked. The lock had been broken off after an attempt to cut it out, but the mahogany was too hard.

He found all the silver and copper missing - a little over 30s. His wallet, containing £8 in treasury notes, was not taken, but all the papers were dis-arranged. From the kitchen dresser one-and-a-half pounds of cheese and some stewed figs had been taken, and the place was dis-arranged. There were two guns kept in the corner of the kitchen. The double-barrelled one had been loaded with cartridges taken from the top of the mantlepiece, and with both barrels cocked placed by the door. He informed the police immediately.

P.C. G.A. Voller, of Bishops Stortford, said on March 18th [transciber note - it definitely looks like 18th but should be 28th] a report was received that Cockhampstead Farm had been broken into during the night and £1 10s. in money stolen from a desk in the dining room and a quantity of cheese from the larder, to the value of 1s. 2s.

In company with other officers the premises was examined and it was found that entrance had been gained by an insecure window in the kitchen. At 11.15 a.m. on June 18th he interviewed the prisoner in custody at this station and informed him that he suspected him of breaking into Cockhampstead Farm and stealing some money and cheese.

He at first denied it, and then said "I may as well tell you the truth. I wish to state that I have broken into Mr Grigg's house at Cockhampstead twice. On the first occasion I took some money from a desk and also some cheese from a cupboard. I cannot say how much money it was. This happened on a Saturday night. When I broke in the second time I took a gun, the one which the sergeant took from me today. This was on a Thursday night. I was hungry when I done these jobs, otherwise I should not have done them. I am sorry for the trouble I have put everyone to." He read the statement to the prisoner and he signed it. Later he was charged with the offence.

In answer to the Chairman, Supt. Wright stated that the prisoner was born in 1898, and was a single man. He joined the Army in 1915, and was transferred to the Army Reserve in 1919.

The prisoner said he was in the Northampton Regiment and served in France.

-----

The third charge against the prisoner was that of breaking into Cockhampstead Farm on the night of 13th and 14th May last, and stealing a gun, the property of Mr A.G. Grigg, to the value of £1.

Theodore Austin Grigg, of Cockhampstead Farm, said on May 13th last he went to bed at 10 o'clock and got up the next morning at 7. He went downstairs and found the kitchen door wide open, and groceries strewn on the doorstep and just outside. The drawers in the dresser in the kitchen had been ransacked and a single barrelled gun that stood in the corner taken away.

He recognised the gun produced. He went through into the scullery and found the window open, and in the sink in front of it was some mud that had come off someone's shoes. The kitchen door was locked and fastened the night before. The key lay just inside on the floor. He valued the gun at £2.

P.C. Voller, who was commended in the previous case by the Chairman for the way he gave his evidence, recapitulated his interview with the prisoner on June 18th, and with regard to this charge asked him to give an explanation of how he came into possession of the gun. He stated "I bought it from a strange man at Puckeridge three months ago, and gave 30/- for it."

Witness told him that this was not a satisfactory explanation, and that he was suspected of breaking into Cockhampstead Farm and stealing the gun which was found in his possession. The prisoner then made the voluntary statement already given in the previous case, and when charged and cautioned made no reply.

The prisoner was committed for trial and remanded to Brixon until Monday last, when his trial took place at the County Quarter Sessions at Hertford. All the witnesses in the cases were bound over to give evidence at the Quarter Sessions.

----

At the Herts. Assizes at Hertford on Monday last Woods was sentenced to six months' inprisonment in respect of each of the charges, the sentences to run concurrently.

11th June 1926 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

Friday last before Col. C.H.B. Heaton-Ellis, C.B.E., The Hon. Baron Dimsdale, Capt. H.H. Williams and H.C. Marshall, Esq.

Poor Rate

The Cottered Poor Rate was signed by two Justices. The rate was at 5/- in £.

LONDON MEN BROUGHT UP ON REMAND

Wrong Names and Addresses

The three London men, who, as reported in our last issue, were remanded for stealing three pairs of motor goggles, the property of the Herts. County Council, were brought up on remand, and were formally charged with theft. All the defendants pleaded guilty.

Supt. Wright informed the Bench that from enquiries made it had been ascertained that when the men were arrested by P.S. Dean they each gave wrong names and addresses.

The defendant who gave his name as Sullivan and address Beaconsfield Road, Shoreditch, was George Wright, of 18, Marnesbury Terrace, Canning Town. Anderson's correct name was Frank Slade, of 84, Clarence Road, Canning Town, and the defendant Jones, who stated he resided at Beaconsfield Road, Shoreditch, was R. Murphy of 61, Croydon Road, Plaistow.

Herbert Smith, of Gt. Munden, a road foreman in the employ of the Herts. County Council, stated that he missed the goggles from a bag attached to his cycle, which was standing near Hamels Park. The goggles (produced) were the ones in his care. They were valued at 2/- each.

Sergt. Dean stated that on Monday, 31st May, he was on duty when he received information that five pairs of motor goggles had been stolen between Buntingford and Standon. He went towards Standon, and saw three men lying on the grass.

He told them he was a police officer, and that he was making enquiries about some stolen goggles. He started to search the defendants, when Anderson produced three pairs of goggles, two other pairs being found on Sullivan by P.C. Gillett. The defendants stated that the goggles were given them by a man.

Supt. Wright stated that nothing was known against Wright and Slade, but it had been found that Murphy had been previously convicted for stealing £1 16s. 10d. in 1920. He had also been sent to an Industrial School, and was discharged from there in 1922.

One of the defendants told the Bench they were all three sorry for what they had done; they had been in prison since Monday and they hoped the Bench would deal leniently with them.

After consultation the Chairman said all three defendants would be dealt with alike; they would go to prison for 14 days with hard labour.

4th June 1926 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

Friday last, before The Hon. Baron C.R. Dimsdale (in the chair), Mrs Dimsdale, Col. C. Heaton-Ellis, Claud Fraser, Esq., and Capt. H.H. Williams

No Driving Licence

John William Lawler, of 19, Half-Moon Street, Piccadilly, was summoned for failing to produce a motor driving licence, at Buntingford.

P.C. Williams said he was on duty at Buntingford at 1.30 a.m. on 9th April, when a car approached from the direction of Royston. He signalled the driver to stop, and asked to see his driving licence. The defendant searched in the pocket of the car, but could not find the licence which he said must have been left at home. He said the licence was in order as it was a new one.

Inspector Herbert said investigations had been made by the Metropolitan Police, and it was found that defendant's driving licence expired on 8th Sept. 1925.

The Chairman said a letter had been received from the defendant, who was not present in Court. After consultation, the Bench imposed a fine of £1 and 4/- in costs.

A Rate Summons

J. Franklin, of Buntingford, was summoned for non-payment of a Poor Rate for the Parish of Aspenden. The Assistant Overseer, Mr J. Boniwell, stated that the rate was made on 30th November last, and that personal application had been made for payment.

The defendant's son said they were under notice to quit when demand for payment was made, and he thought it was a legal point whether they were liable to the charges.

The Chairman said that as the defendant was in occupation for the whole period of the rate there was no doubt that the rate was due. On [sic] order for payment would be made, and th distress warrant would be held over for one month to enable the defendant to pay.

7th May 1926 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

Friday last, before Lieut-Col C.H. Heaton-Ellis, C.B.E., Mrs Dimsdale, and Capt. H.H. Williams.

POOR RATES

Poor rates for the following parishes were presented by the Overseers and signed by the Justices.

It was stated that with the exception of Layston parish there were no arrears: Layston Poor Rate 5/-, lighting 3d.; Aspenden Poor Rate 5/-, lighting 6d.; Wyddiall Poor Rate 5/-; Buckland 4/8; Throcking 6/-; Little Hormead 5/-; Braughing 4/8.

AN ARREARS CASE

Jack Cecil Cook, of Hay Street, was summoned by Mr H.J. Andrews who stated that money due under an affiliation order had not been paid. The defendant did not appear, and the Chairman signed a warrant for his arrest. The police left immediately, and brought defendant to the Court within a few minutes.

P.C. Gillett then gave formal evidence of arrest. He stated that he had just arrested the defendant in Harestreet.

Asked by the Chairman why he had paid no money under the order made in November last, the defendant said his wages were only 25/- per week; his father was ill, and there were two children at home.

The Chairman said the defendant would have to pay or go to prison. He had not attempted to pay anything. Defendant would be committed to prison for one month, but the order would be suspended until Friday, May 7th, to enable the defendant to pay.

CHAIRMAN'S ADVICE TO A YOUNG LAD

A Buntingford lad was summoned by his late employer for stealing a shilling. The defendant's late employer stated that he did not wish to press the case as he had had no previous trouble with the lad.

The Chairman, who said he knew the lad's parents were very respectable, gave the defendant some good advice, and bound him over for two years.

NO LIGHT

Gladys Cook, of Hay Street, Braughing, was summoned for riding a cycle without a light at Westmill, Buntingford.

P.C. Williams said he was on duty at Westmill on 12th April at 8.40 p.m., when he saw a cyclist approach. He signalled to her to stop as he noticed there was no lamp on the machine. He asked her for an explanation and the defendant replied "I have been to the hairdressers; I did not think I should be there so long."

The Chairman read a letter from the defendant, who did not appear.

Supt. Wright stated that the defendant was a sister of the defendant Cook who had been brought up on arrest.

The Chairman, in imposing a fine of 10/-, said the family seemed to have no respect for the Court. He also instructed the superintendant to see that the girl was informed that had she been present the magistrates might have taken a more lenient view of the matter. She had not appeared and would therefore be fined.

19th Nov 1926 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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[Content warning - The last two cases in this article are a case of domestic abuse caused by PTSD, and a case of indecent assault against a child. I have marked both with (content warning) next to their respective titles.]

Buntingford Petty Sessions

Friday last, before Col. Sir Charles Heaton-Ellis (Chairman), Mrs K.J. Dimsdale, Capt. H.H. Williams, Mr H.C. Marshall and Mr Claud Fraser.

POOR RATES

Poor Rates were signed for six parishes as follows: Rushden 5/4 in the pound, Cottered 5/4, Buckland 5/-, Westmill 5/-, Layston 5/- and 3d. lighting rate, and Aspenden 5/-.

LICENSING

Mr H.S. Buckley applied on behalf of Messrs. Barclay Perkins & Co., for permission to make certain structural alterations to "The Angel" Inn, Buntingford. He submitted plans.

Supt. Wright said the whole thing was an improvement, and the Bench granted the application.

A full transfer was granted of the licence of "The Chequers" Buntingford, from Alfred Bardwell to William James Burnell; also the licence of "The Golden Fleece," Braughing, from Frederick Warr to Frank Cole; and of "The Jolly Butchers," Hare Street, from William Choldcroft to William Baker. Mr Choldcroft has been landlord of "The Jolly Butchers" for 36 years.

APPLICATION FOR POSSESSION OF COTTAGE

Mrs Lilian Edis, of Baldock Road, Buntingford, applied for possession of a cottage, tenanted by Mr William Smith, which she said she required for the storage of furniture. She made a lengthy statement in a very excited manner, and said she had only 13s. 6d. a week to live upon, and had to pay rates and taxes, and then went on to say, "please let me have my cottage so that I can live. I want to live and I have a right to live."

The Chairman said the case had been heard previously at that Court and adjudicated upon, and the Bench could not help her at all. He showed that the law had been complied with, and advised her to seek legal advice.

MOTOR CAR DRIVER FINED FOR REFUSING TO STOP

Leonard Harold Johns 930), motor driver, of 28, Boland Street, Battersea Park, who did not appear, was summoned for refusing to stop when requested by a police officer in uniform.

P.C. Gillett [? piece torn out] on September 25th he was on duty [?] High Street, Buntingford, near the police station and saw a motor car coming from the direction of Puckeridge, pass three other cars travelling in the same direction with a distance of between three and four hundred yards. 

He put up his hand for the defendant to stop, but he looked at witness and went on. Witnessed telephoned Royston for the defendant to be stopped, but the car was not seen. It was, however, traced to London and the drive seen.

The Bench had received a letter from the defendant, in which he denied driving at excessive speed, and said he never saw the police officer or he should have stopped immediately.

P.C. Gillett said Johns was driving at the rate of 40 miles an hour, and that he looked right at him (witness) and saw him quite clearly. A find of £5 including cost was imposed.

NO LIGHT TO BICYCLE AT BUNTINGFORD

Alfred Wiber (25), a clerk, residing at Chipping, was summoned for riding a bicycle without a light at Buntingford on October 27th. The defendant did not appear.

P.C. Gillett said he was on duty at Buntingford on October 27th at 9.55 p.m. and saw the defendant riding a bicycle from the direction of Puckeridge and on his way to Chipping. He had no lamps. Witness stopped him and took his name and address, and said by having no light he was dangerous to himself and others. The defendant was cheeky when the summons was served.

The Chairman said it was a bad case. The defendant had not appeared to answer the charge, and would be fined £2.

DRUNK IN CHARGE OF A HORSE

John Anthony (50), a farm labourer, of Reed, who did not appear, was summoned for being drunk in charge of a horse at Buntingford on October 21st.

Stanley Sell said he was coming home from work on October 21st, at 5 p.m., and saw a man at Sandon cross roads leading a horse that was running from one side of the road to the other. The man fell over. There was a deal of traffic on the road, and Sergt. Dean took charge of the horse.

Sergt. Dean said at 6 p.m. on the date named he saw defendant leading a horse near Corney Bury, Buntingford. He was drunk and staggering all over the road. There were several motors on the road and one touched the horse and knocked the man down. He took the man to the police station, and released him from custody on bail at 10.45 p.m. The man never disputed being drunk. A letter was received from the defendant stating he was not drunk.

P.C. Whyman, who saw the defendant at the police station, said he was drunk and smelt strongly of drink. He never asked to see a doctor.

Mrs Anthony said her husband did not arrive home till nearly 12 p.m. He was a good husband, and had a good army character. He had had nothing to eat that day since breakfast, and only had one pint of beer. For six years he had had no beer.

Sergt. Dean said when the man was released he said if he had a pint of beer it would turn him silly.

The Chairman in fining the defendant 50/-, said the Bench had taken a lenient view. As a point of beer had such an effect upon him, he had better absolutely stop taking it altogether.

APPLICATION OF ARMY PENSIONER'S WIFE (content warning)

A woman came for counsel to the Bench as she was in bodily fear of her husband, an army pensioner.

Dr Fell said the man joined the Army and was shell shocked. That so upset his mind that he had tried to commit suicide. He was detained for a time, and seeming better, came home. He was, however, subject to outbursts of temper and passion, though perfectly rational when witness talked to him.

When he got moody he had violent attacks of passion and frightened his wife. He was quite a nice fellow, and this was the fag end of a mental disarrangement due to shell shock. He advised that he should go back for treatment at Sidcup Hospital for at least six months.

The applicant who seemed much distressed, said for the children's sake she was absolutely in favour of Dr Fell's suggestion, and it was left to him to make arrangements.

INDECENT ASSAULT AT BROADFIELD (content warning)

Harry Hills, (26), a greengrocer, of 51, Stanmore Road, Stevenage was summoned for indecently assulting a child of 8 and a half years of age, at Broadfield on October 16th. He was defended by Mr W.C. Brignall, solicitor, of Stevenage, and pleaded not guilty. The case occupied the Court a considerable time.

Evidence for the prosecution was given by the parents, the little girl, Nurse Tunwell, who examined the child the evening after the assault, Walter John Hurry and his brother, Frank Edward Hurry, and P.S. Dean.

For the defence, Dr Grosvenor, of Stevenage, and Mr George Walter Griffin, of Hitchen, spoke in the highest terms of the defendant's character, and the defendant gave evidence stating he never touched the child in any way.

His wife spoke of his return home on the day at 4 p.m., and the solicitor urged there was no corroboration and the evidence was not enough to commit the defendant.

The Bench retired, and on returning into Court the Chairman said they were agreed on a verdict of guilty.

Supt. Wright said the defendant led a respectable life and his associates were respectable. Since these proceedings were taken two other complaints had been received of similar offences committed by the defendant during the past three months.

In sentencing Hills to six months' hard labour, the Chairman said it was a dastardly and abominable crime committed on a child only eight years old.

16th Dec 1927 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

A Lengthy Agenda

A number of cases were down for hearing at the Buntingford Petty Sessions, held on Friday last. The proceedings lasted until nearly 5 p.m. Sir Charles Heaton-Ellis, C.B.E, presided, other magistrates present being Mrs Dimsdale, Capt. H.H. Williams, Mr Claud Fraser, and Mr G.W. Pepper.

LICENSING

An application for sanction to alterations at "The White Hart," Puckeridge, was granted. Mr Claud Fraser was appointed representative on the Hertfordshire County Probation Committee, and the Bench fixed Friday, February 3rd, for the annual licensing meeting.

The licence of "The George and Dragon" Hotel, Buntingford, was temporarily transferred to Fredk. S. Brigham, the Chairman commending the late tenant, Mr J.E. Holmes, on the satisfactory way the house had been managed.

Application for the temporary transfer of the licence of a beer house at Westmill from David Rayment to Albert Coxall was granted.

NON-PAYMENT OF RATES

Frank Brand, of Harestreet [sic], Buntingford, was summoned for non-payment of poor rate, amounting to £5 18s. 1d. 

An order for payment was made.

A STRAY DOG

Wilfrid Bentley, of Harestreet, Buntingford, was summoned for allowing a dog to stray at Little Hormead.

P.C. Gillett, who proved the case, said that when he spoke to defedant about the offence defendant remarked "I shall have to put up with it, I can get off with paying."

Defendant, who did not appear, was fined 10/- including costs.

ANOTHER DOG CASE

Henry Pigg, of Biggin, Buntingford, was summoned for allowing a dog to stray at Harestreet, and for failing to have name and address on the dog's collar.

The defendant told the Bench that he did not know it was necessary to have one's name and address on a dog's collar.

The Chairman said he was afraid that it was not generally known.

Supt. Wright: I will see that notice to the effect that the owner's name and address must be inscribed on a dog's collar, are posted in the district.

The Chairman: You will be fined 5/- including costs in each case, Mr Pigg, and in future you and I must read the posters. (Laughter).

GAME TRESPASS

Fred Warner, of Council Cottages, Ardeley, Stevenage, was charged with game trespass at Ardeley.

Thos. Hugh Sale, of Coates Manor, Ardeley, gave evidence of seeing the defendant in a field at 7.30 a.m. on 14th October. The witness saw defendant shoot at a pheasant. When witness spoke to him about it the defendant replied "Tell your father I will sting his pheasants up when the moon shines."

Alfred Carter, game-keeper, of Westmill, gave evidence, and after consultation the Chairman said it was quite clear the defendant was trespassing in search of game. The first witness had said that defendant put the barrels of his gun into his pocket when he left the field; this was not a proper action. There would be a fine of 15/- including costs.

SEQUEL TO A BUCKLAND DANCE

Horace Dearman, of Back Lane, Rushden, was charged with stealing a gent's overcoat, &c, at Buckland, on 21st October.

Thos. William Lawrence said he attended a dance at Buckland on the date in question. He had an overcoat, which he out on a chair in the lobby. He put his cap in the pocket of the overcoat. When he went for his coat after the dance it was missing.

George W. Andrews, of Cottered, said he attended the dance mentioned. When he came out into the lobby after the dance the defendant Dearman handed him a cap, saying "Here's your cap." The witness later found that it was not his cap, so it put it on his bicycle.

P.C. Hill gave evidence of interviewing defendant, who made a statement on the following Sunday morning.

Mr G.H. Maughan, of Messrs. Chalmers-Hunt & Co., represented defendant. The whole affair, he said, was a mistake. The defendant went to a dance at Buckland and put his coat on a chair in a very small and badly lit lobby. When he left the dance he picked up what he thought was his own overcoat and went home in it. He (Mr Maughan) agreed that the defendant should have reported the mistake to the police the next morning.

The defendant, in the witness box, told the Bench that he did not know he had the wrong coat until he was nearly home, when he heard something rattle in the pocket. In the pocket he found a tin of carbide, a scarf, belt and clips. He admitted to the Bench that his own coat differed a great deal from the one he took and also that his own coat pockets were torn.

After consultation, the Bench dismissed the case.

INTERESTING POSSESSION CASE

A case in which a Mrs Page, a London schoolmistress, applied for possession of a cottage at Sandon Lane, owned by her and occupied by Jonah Brown, was dismissed because the solicitors acting for the applicant had failed to read over a statutory notice at the time it was served to the defendant Brown.

Mr H.G. Woolfe, barrister, appeared for Mrs Page, and stated that the cottage was purchased in 1926, as Mrs Page, who was in ill health, wished to live in the country. The rent was 2/- per week. Defendant had been offered alternative accommodation. He was a thatcher by trade and the cottage offered him was quite suitable. The applicant had been paying rent for some time in respect of the cottage who had been offered Brown, in the hope that he would accept it.

The question of the notice to quit was discussed by the Bench. The notice was served through the post, but Brown, who was not respresented, although warned by the Chairman that he need not answer the question, admitted that he had received the notice to quit.

The question which led to the case being dismissed was one which the clerk put to the solicitor's clerk, Mr L. Hutchinson: "Did you serve the notice to appear at this Court, on Brown?" asked Mr Gisby. "Yes," replied the clerk. "Did you read it over and explain it to him?" "No."

The Chairman said he was in sympathy with Mr Woolfe, but the law had not been complied with. The statutory notice must be served personally, read over and explained.

The solicitor's clerk explained that defendant had used bad language to him and that he could not read the notice over to him.

Mr Woolfe said it seemed ridiculus to have to adjourn the case just to enable him to go through the formal business of reading over a statutory notice which Brown admitted having received.

The Chairman said they had no other course but to dismiss the application.

AFFILIATION CASE

A Buntingford woman applied for an affiliation order against Leonard Ward, of Wakeley Cottages, Buntingford. When the case came before the Bench in September last it was dismissed.

The applicant was represented by Mr H. Lathom, the defendant being represented by Mr R. Hartley, of Royston.

The hearing lasted over two hours and at the close the Chairman said the Bench had come to the undoubted conclusion that Ward was the father of the child. An order would be made for the defendant to pay 7/6 per week till the child reached the age of 16 years.

Defendant would also have to pay the cost of the day's proceedings and £1 1s. towards the cost of the confinement.

APPLICATION FOR POSSESSION

Hugh W. Sale, of Coates Manor, Ardeley, made application for the possession of a cottage owned by him and in the occupation of A. Culver. The man had received a week's notice to quit.

Mr G.H. Maughan, of Messrs. Chalmers-Hunt & Co., represented defendant, and told the Bench that the tenancy was a yearly one. When Calvert paid his rent, which he did by cheque, Mr Sale entered the rent in thr rent book as though it had been paid weekly.

Mr Sale submitted a certificate from the Agricultural Committee. He particularly wanted the cottage for a stockman. Alternate accommodation had been offered Calvert.

The Chairman said that in the eyes of the law Calvert was a yearly tenant and would have to be served with a year's notice for the application to be in order. The case would have to be dismissed.

24th Feb 1928 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

Friday last, before Sir Charles Heaton-Ellis, C.B.E. (in the chair), Capt. H.H. Williams, Claud Fraser, William Steel, and G.W. Pepper, Esqs.

NEIGHBOURS DISAGREE

Ernest Newman, of 15, Council Cottages, Cottered, brought a charge of common assault against his neighbour, Jack Gravestock. Gravestock pleaded "not guilty."

The plaintiff said that on Saturday, 7th January, he returned to his home shortly after 9 p.m. After he had been indoors some minutes he heard someone at the front door. He went to the door and the defendant took hold of him and tried to pull him out. Some men were standing at the front gate, and the plaintiff went down the path to enquire what was the matter. Jack Gravestock then took hold of him and pushed him on the village green, and dumped him in the mud two or three times. He afterwards reported the matter to the police.

Edith Newman, wife of the complainant, said she was having a few words with her husband on the night in question when the defendant came to the front door and tried to pull her husband outside. Later her husband went outside and was pushed in some mud by defendant.

Cross-examined, witness stated that her husband was not drunk that night.

The defendant, in giving evidence, said that at about 10.20 p.m. on the Saturday night in question he was indoors with his parents when he heard screams of "murder" and "help." He went to the front door, where he saw Mrs Newman, who asked him to hit her husband.

Newman then came out of the house and witness said to him "I want to see you; come on to the green." Newman walked over to the green and slipped down in the mud, where he laid for some minutes.

Mrs Hearne, of 14, Council Cottages, said that at 10.30 p.m. on the day in question she heard someone screaming. She ran outside, and saw Mrs Newman lying in the path. When Newman came out of the house she asked him to go to his wife's assistance, and he replied "She is only putting it on."

Harry Gravestock, the defendant's father, gave evidence, and said that when he went outside Mrs Newman was shouting "murder" and asking for protection. When Newman came out into the road he walked on to the green, and slipped and fell in the mud.

Harry Hearn and Joseph Pepper said they stood in the road and saw Newman fall down in the mud. The defendant did not push him down.

Mrs Gravestock, the defendant's mother, said there was an awful row outside, and when she went out Mrs Newman told her that Newman would kill her son. The witness went out on to the green where she saw her son (the defendant) standing with another man. She went up to the man, and, thinking he was Newman, smacked his face. She then discovered it was Mr Pepper she had struck. (Laughter). The witness added she helped Newman up and pushed him indoors.

The Chairman said the Bench were of the opinion that the assault had not been proved. The case would be dismissed.

ALLEGED CRUELTY TO A CHILD

Mrs K. Goss, a married woman, of Buntingford, was summoned by John E. Gibbs, of Buntingford, for alleged cruelty to his child, Frederick Gibbs, aged three years.

The plaintiff, in a lengthy statement to the Bench, said that while his wife was in hospital his three children were placed in the care of Mrs Goss. He paid her £1 per week for their maintenance.

On Tuesday, 20th December, Mr Goss brought the boy, Frederick, home, stating that the child had misbehaved himself. The complainant found that the child complained, and on examining him it appeared as though the child had been struck. He took the child to the Police Station, where he was examined by Police Officers. He also saw Mrs Goss, who denied thrashing the boy.

Mrs Goss, in giving evidence, said that when she took the children into her care they had chicken-pox. In consequence they had marks on their bodies.

On the morning of December 20th she attended to the boy, Frederick, as usual. When she went to dress him at 7.30 a.m. she found he had misbehaved himself, so she gave him a smacking. She did not smack his head, and the child seemed all right at breakfast. She had three children of her own, and would have treated any of them just the same.

Mr G.H. Maughan, of Messrs Chalmers Hunt & Co., defended, and pointed out that a person who has charge of a child is legally entitled to administer such punishment as is necessary. There were times when corporal punishment was necessary, and this occasion had been one of them.

The complainant then called his daughter (Barbara) to give evidence and further evidence for the defendant was given by her husband and daughter.

The Chairman, in addressing the complainant, said that the Bench had listened with great patience to all the evidence. They were impressed by the fact that the complainant had called no medical evidence to support his case. 

They further noted, from the evidence, that although an officer of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children had his attention called to the matter, there was some significance in the fact that he did not intervene in the case.

The Bench were of the unanimous opinion that the case must be dismissed.

POSSESSION CASE

The case in which Mrs Page applied for the possession of a cottage in the occupation of Jonah Brown, and which, as reported in our issue of 10th February, was adjourned for the Magistrates to inspect the alternative accommodation offered the tenant, again came before the Bench.

In dismissing the application for possession, the Chairman said that the alternative accommodation offered the tenant was, in the opinion of the Bench, unsuitable.

10th Feb 1928 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

Friday last, before J. Howard-Carter, Esq. (in the chair), Claud Fraser, William Steel, G.C. Coutts Deacon and G.W. Pepper, Esqs.

GENERAL ANNUAL LICENSING MEETING

The superintendent presented his annual report, as follows:

Gentlemen, I am directed by the chief constable to report that the number of licensed houses within the Buntingford Petty Sessional Division is 33 fully licensed, 7 beer (one), 4 beer (off), 1 grocer's and 2 registered clubs; total 47.

Four houses have changed hands during the year, being the same number as last year. One licensee has been proceeded against during the year. No person has been proceeded again for drunkenness during the year, this being a decrease of one compared with last year.

The permitted hours in the Buntingford Petty Sessional Division are week-days, 10.30 a.m to 2.30 p.m., and 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Sundays 12 noon to 2 p.m., and 7 to 10 p.m.

The Chairman said he thought the whole bench would agree that the report was satisfactory. The renewel of all the licenses would be granted.

OTHER LICENSING BUSINESS

Application was made by Mr George Wickham, of "The Angel" Inn, Buntingford, for the extension of hours from 2.30 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Mondays (Buntingford Market Day). The application was granted.

FAILING TO ILLUMINATE IDENTIFICATION PLATES ON MOTOR CARS

There were two charges against car drivers for failing to illuminate their rear identification plates on motor cars. The defendants, who did not appear, were William B. Witts, of Heathfield, Bassingbourn, and Walter C. Salmon, of 4, Rye Road, Rye Park, Hoddesdon, both motor drivers.

Evidence in each case was given by P.C. Gillett, who said that the rear light of one of the cars was alight but did not illuminate the number plate.

Asked by the Chairman if it was because of dirt on the lamp or plate, the constable replied that the lamp was bright enough but threw a light on to the ground instead of on the number plate.

In imposing a fine of 10/- on each defendant, the Chairman said cases of this kind were becoming before the Bench more frequently. If this continued the Bench may feel it their duty to inflict a more severe penalty.

NO DRIVING LICENCE

Sidney Edwards, of 62, Catharine Street, Cambridge, was summoned for driving a motor car without a driving licence at Buntingford.

P.C. Williams said he saw defendant at Buntingford at 2.40 a.m. on 2nd January, and when he asked him for his licence the defendant said he had left it in another coat.

Supt. Wright read a list of former convictions in 1915, 1916, 1917, 1919, 1923, 1924, 1925, 1926, and 1928, and the Chairman, remarking that the defendant had kept the police force busy, said there would be a fine of 10/- including costs.

GAME TRESPASS AT BRAUGHING

Herbert Petts, of Powel's Green, Braughing, Alfred Hagger, of the same address, and Frank Stacey, of Church End, Braughing, labourers, were chared with game trespass at Braughing. Petts did not appear.

P.C. Barker gave evidence of seeing the defendants in a field with dogs on a Sunay morning. The dogs were hunting the land. When he spoke to them they told him they were after rats.

Mr C.P. Mole, of Braughing, the owner of the sporting rights of the land in question, said he had never given the defendants permission to go on the land.

The bench inflicted a fine of 2/6 towards the costs in each case.

William Prior, of The Street, Braughing, was summoned for a similar offence.

P.C. Barker said he saw the defendant coming from a stack and noticed the legs of two rabbits protruding from the defendant's clothes. He told the defendant he would be reported, to which he replied "There they are; they are worth 1/6 each."

The defendant said that he was returning from work when his dog drove a rabbit into a hole. He got it out, and as luck would have it there was another rabbit in the hole.

The defendant, who had been fined twice previously for similar offences, was fined 10/- including costs.

POSSESSION CASE ADJOURNED

Mr G.H. Maughan of Messrs. Chalmers-Hunt & Co., solicitors, made application on behalf of Mrs Page for possession of a cottage situate at Sandon Lane, Buntingford, owned by her and in the occupation of Jonah Brown. The case came before the bench at a previous sitting, when it was dismissed as a notice had not been read over and explained to the tenant.

Mr Maughan stated that the applicant purchased the cottage in 1926. She was a London school teacher and was retiring on account of ill-health. Brown's rent was 2/- per week, and suitable alternate accommodation had been offered him. The alternate accommodation was at Buckland, and the cottage was larger than the one he was now residing in.

Mr B.E. Thody proved service of the statutory notice to the defendent to the effect that the owner was making application for possession at that Court.

Mrs Page and Mr Page both gave evidence, after which the defendant entered the witness box. He said that the cottage offered him was not suitable. It was three miles further away from his work, and his pony could not pull a cart up the road to the cottage. He objected to taking it.

The Bench discussed the case, after which the Chairman said it would be adjourned for 14 days to give the magistrates an opportunity of inspecting the property. [Transcriber note - Read about the next session here]

PROBATION OFFICER'S REPORT

The Probation Office, Mr H.J. Andrews, presented his report to the Bench. Of the seven cases placed in his hands by the Bench, six had proved successful and one had proved a failure. Mr Andrews then gave particulars of the number of cases - 91 - which had passed through his hands during the year, and said that there were only two failures. This meant that 89 persons had been helped to better things.

The Chairman congratulated Mr Andrews on his report, and said that the magistrates recognised in the Probation of Offenders' Act opportunity for the improvement of many people.

Mr Claud Fraser, a member of the Probation Committee for the county, said he was pleased to have recently made a satisfactory report on Mr Andrew's work.

19th Oct 1928 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

Friday Last, before Sir Charles Heaton-Ellis (in the chair), Captain H.H. Williams and Mr G.W. Pepper.

APPLICATION FOR POSSESSION

Mr Alfred J. Miller, of Braughing, made application for the possession of a cottage owned by him and in the occupation of Mr Robert Allen, of Braughing.

Mr Miller said he became the owner of the property in 1928. The tenant had been in occupation since 1926. The rent was 4/6, but when he (Mr Miller) became the owner he raised it to 5/6. The tenant had refused to pay the incrase, and the arrears now amounted to £13 11s 6d.

The applicant was anxious to get possession as he intended putting the cottage in a better condition.

Mr Allen said he had tried for three cottages, but had been unable to secure one. The cottage he lived in was in a deplorable condition, and he did not feel inclined to pay the increased rent until the owner repaired the place. He was quite willing to pay the back rent as he had the money with him, but he could not pay the extra 1/-.

The Bench discussed the matter, and the Chairman said the case would be adjourned for one month to enable the parties to come to terms.

AFFILIATION CASES

Leonard Ward, of Aspenden, and Sidney Oakley, of Buntingford, were summoned by Mr H.J. Andrews for non-payment of arrears in respect of affiliation orders made by the Buntingford Bench.

After hearing the evidence the Chairman said that unless the cases were settled within seven days both men would be committed to prison, Oakley for three months, and Ward for one month.

The last-named paid before the Court closed.

12th Feb 1926 - Buntingford Petty Sessions

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Buntingford Petty Sessions

ANNUAL LICENSING MEETING

On Friday last, before H.C. Marshall (in the chair) and Claud Fraser, Esqs.

Supt. H. Wright presented the following report to the magistrates:

Gentlemen,

I am directed by the Chief Constable to report that the number of licensed houses within the Buntingford Petty Sessions Division is- 34 fully licensed, 8 beer houses for consumption "on" the premises, 4 beer houses for consumption "off" the premises, 1 Grocer's licence. [Total=] 47.

One licence, in respect of "The Fountain" PH, has not been taken up.

Since the last annual general meeting 7 licensed houses have been transferred, an increase of 5 as compared with last year.

No licensee has been proceeded against during the year.

One person (a male) has been proceeded against for drunkeness, the case being dismissed. This is an increase of one compared with last year. This person is a resident in this Petty Sessional Division.

The permitted hours in the Buntingford Division are- Weekdays, 10.30am to 2.30pm and 6pm to 10pm. Sundays, 12 noon to 2pm and 7pm to 10pm.

Your obedient servant, H. Wright, Superintendent.

The Chairman said the report was very satisfactory. All the licences would be renwewed.

AFFILIATION CASE

An affiliation case, concerning a Buntingford man, was adjourned for three months.