Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

Taken from the Western Times  
and the Exeter and Plymouth Gazette

[printed in Exeter.]

1930

Transcribed by Lindsey Withers

Coroner's Inquests were usually held within the space of 48 hours following a death that appeared to be of a suspicious or unexplained nature. They were usually held in a local public-house, ale house, municipal building, or parish workhouse, but sometimes in the building where the death occurred. The Coroner usually came from a legal or medical background and more often than not, appointed for life by the respective County. The Coroner and a Jury of between 12 and 24 persons, usually men of substantial standing, were empanelled to examine the body, hear witnesses, and the Jury then to come to a Verdict as to Cause of Death. The account of the Inquest appearing in local newspapers, included the name of the deceased, where they died, and how they died. Sometimes, age, occupation, parish or address, and other relatives' names can be found. In later years when Hospitals appear, people can be dying away from their parish after having been admitted to that institution, and the Inquest is therefore conducted where the death occurred, rather than where the person was living.

[Numbers in brackets indicate the number of times that name occurs.]

Names Included: Ackrell; Alford; Anstead; Arrowsmith; Attwell; Avery; Baber; Bailey; Baker(2); Balcomb; Bamsey; Barnes; Beard; Bee; Beer; Bennett; Bolt; Born; Brealey; Brimicombe; Brown; Burns; Burrows; Carter; Caunter; Chapple; Churchill; Clarke; Clinch; Cole; Coles; Collins; Connett; Coombe; Coster; Crook; Cross(2); Cummings; Dally; Daniel; De Faye; Dewar; Doney; Dovell; Down; Drapkin; Drew; Driscoll; Edworthy; Ellacott; Ellis; Endacott; Erredge; Fishleigh; Forsyth; Frost; Gale; German; Gerrard; Gill; Godfrey; Gosling; Green; Greening; Griffen; Gubb; Hancock; Hannaford; Harper; Harris; Head; Heard; Hemborough; Hext(2); Heywood; Hill(2); Hoer; Hole; Holsgrove; Holwill; Honey; Hosking; Howard; Hull; Hurford; Hutchings(3); Huxham; James(2); Johns; Johnson; Jutsum; Kelly; Kemp; Kingdon; Land; Latham; Lawrence; Lethbridge(2); Litt; Loney; Lord; Loveband; Mallett; Martin(2); Matthews; May; Melhuish; Mitchell; Moles; Morris; Mortimore; Mottet; Mullins(2); Murray; Musselwhite; Nation; Norrish; O'Brien; Parsons; Pedrick; Perring; Perryman; Phillips; Piggott; Pook; Pratt; Pridham; Pring; Prouse; Pullman; Purse; Quick; Radmore; Ralph; Reed; Rendell; Restorick; Reynolds; Richards(2); Rippon; Roach; Robins; Robinson; Rogers; Rolle; Rowe; Rugg; Salway; Sampson; Selley(2); Sene; Shapcott; Shepherd; Sherborne; Shute; Slater; Slee; Smith; Sparkes; Stephens; Stooke; Street(2); Tarr; Tidbury; Thomas(2); Tothill; Townsend; Tredger; Trice; Trick; Tucker(3); Twyford; Wallace; Watt; Watts; Way; Weeks; Wellington; Wensley; Whale; White; Widgery; Williams(3); Wilson; Winsborrow; Winson; Wolland; Wood; Woolston; Woosley; Yendell; Yeoman; Young

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 1 January 1930
NEWTON ST CYRES - Sad End. Newton St. Cyres Rate And Tax Collector. Inquest Disclosures. - A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was returned by the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. H. Stephens, at an Inquest held at Newton St. Cyres, yesterday, on THOMAS WILLIAM WILLIAMS, 64, a rate and tax collector of West Town, Newton St. Cyres, who was found hanging in a shed on Monday morning. - LEONARD AUBREY WILLIAMS, a gardener, said he slept with his father at West Town. Deceased went to bed at 9.20 on Sunday night and witness followed about 20 minutes later. As he was getting into bed his father asked if he had seen his brother and added that he supposed all the people in the village were talking about him. Witness's brother used to help his father in collecting taxes. Witness woke up at 7.15 on Monday morning and found that his father was not in bed. He got up, went downstairs and was surprised to see that his father had not lit the fire, as was his custom. Witness thought his father had gone outside and, as he was blind, could not get back. He called his aunt who lived two doors away. About 8 o'clock he was told by a Mr Burrows that his father had been found hanging in a shed. Deceased had been incapacitated from doing his work since 1924, owing to blindness. Consequently, witness's brother did all the collecting work. His father had mentioned to him that certain monetary matters had been the talk of the village, and he had been distressed and worried about it. A distress warrant was issued against deceased in December and he had threatened to take his life. - Miss Sarah Ann Lendon, of West Town, said she kept house for deceased, who was her brother-in-law. On Monday morning she went into a shed at the back of the house and saw deceased hanging there. He had been very worried lately. She ran to fetch Mr Burrows who was driving a horse and cart down the road. - Samuel Northcott, of 46 Mill-street, Crediton, thatcher, said he helped to cut deceased down. Deceased was fully dressed and resting with one arm over a board and a rope tight around his neck. The rope was tied to a beam in the shed. Dr Soady, of Crediton, said death was caused by asphyxia due to hanging. - The Coroner returned a verdict as stated. - Deceased formerly lived at Exwick, and was for many years a compositor on the "Devon and Exeter Daily Gazette," but when the linotypes came he found other occupation and eventually became rate and tax collector at Newton St Cyres a good while ago. For several years his sight had been failing. He was local correspondent for the "Gazette," and took a keen interest in parish affairs.

Western Times, Friday 3 January 1930 TIVERTON - Tiverton Sensation. Woman Charged With Murder Of Infant. Body Found In Suitcase. Doctor Says Child Probably Lived A Fortnight. - The Inquest Story. - At Tiverton yesterday, ANNIE KELLY, 40, chambermaid, of no fixed abode, was charged with the murder of a newly-born child at Tiverton, between September 21st and December 19th. - P.S. Williams said on Wednesday he accompanied Chief Constable Beynon to Lynton, received prisoner, and took her to Tiverton. He read the warrant for her arrest to her and she made no reply. - Chief Constable Beynon applied for a remand until Thursday next and this was granted. - At the Tiverton Hospital last evening the Borough Coroner, Mr F. R. D. Clutsom, opened the Inquest on the infant, at the outset describing the Enquiry as a mere formality. - Elizabeth Ball, of No. 28 St Peter-street, Tiverton, said on a day in September last a woman, who said she was MRS KELLY, called on her and asked whether witness could put her up from the Saturday until the following Monday. She agreed and on the Monday the woman asked witness if she could stay until Christmas. Her request was granted and the woman was given a bedroom and she had her food in the kitchen. - Asked by the Coroner whether she noticed anything at the time, witness replied that on the Monday morning she noticed that the woman was a little [?]. - "I asked her," continued witness, "if there was anything doing, and she asked me what I meant. I asked if she was expecting, and she replied, 'There is nothing like that.'" - Witness continuing her evidence, said there was nothing further to arouse her suspicion. The woman wrote to a place at Lynton and later told witness she was going there. The woman received a letter on the Thursday morning before Christmas and went to Lynton on the morning of Thursday, 19th December, remarking before leaving that she was going to spend Christmas there. The woman asked witness to keep her room for a fortnight, and let her baggage remain in the room. The baggage consisted of a trunk, suit case, a small box, and some bedding. Witness expected her to send for her goods later. The woman always wore an overall, but when she came into the kitchen one morning she had on a costume, and witness noticed that the woman was slighter. She (witness), however, did not take much notice. On 31st December witness received a letter from the woman asking her to send on her goods with the exception of the suitcase and bedding, which she would come and take away later. No one used the room during the woman's absence and witness herself did not go into it until she had the letter. When witness removed the suitcase from the top of the trunk there was a bad smell. The suitcase was not locked and when the strap was undone the suitcase came open and a small leg protruded. Witness immediately communicated with the Police. - Dr Nicholson said on 31st December he was called to No. 28 St Peter-street and found a suitcase containing the body of a recently-born male child enveloped in a pair of knickers. Round the neck of the child, outside the knickers, was tightly wound a piece of webbing such as may be used for a waistband. There was some blood about, and the whole was in a state of decomposition. - The Coroner: Can you say how long the child had been dead? - Witness: I conducted a post mortem examination on the child at the Mortuary, and found it a full-term child which had been born alive and had had a separate existence. It had lived about a fortnight. The cause of death was asphyxiation caused by the webbing being wound round the neck. The webbing encircled the neck five times. - The Coroner: I don't want to go further now, but you are satisfied that it was not a natural death? - Witness: Quite. - The Coroner, addressing the Jury, said when a suspected person was brought before the Magistrates and a charge of murder or infanticide was investigated, the proper course was to adjourn the Inquest and leave the matter in the hands of the Police. He therefore did not propose to carry the evidence any further. Doubtless the doctor could tell them a great deal more, but he (the Coroner) did not intend to ask the doctor to give it. The woman concerned did not wish to attend the Inquest. - Adjourning the Inquiry until Thursday, 28th February, the Coroner, discharging the Jury, observed, "In all probability there will be no necessity for me to resume."

Western Times, Friday 3 January 1930 TIVERTON - Tiverton Tragedy. Almshouse Occupant And The Lighted Candle. Coroner's Suggestion. - Sitting without a Jury at Tiverton Hospital, on Friday, Mr F. R. D. Clutsom, Borough Coroner, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" in the case of HENRY TUCKER, aged 77, who on Christmas Eve was found dead in his ground floor room at Walrond's Almshouses, Tiverton, the bedding and floor being alight and the room full of smoke. - Evidence was given by relatives to the effect that they called earlier in the day and found both front and back doors of the house locked, but a neighbour, named Hawkings, said he had seen TUCKER that morning, and so they felt no alarm until at 4.30 p.m. it was ascertained that the key was inside. Hawkings now admitted in evidence that he might have been mistaken as to that particular morning but he was in the habit of seeing TUCKER daily, and he always seemed well. On the door of the house being forced, the room was found to be full of smoke and the bedding and the floor under the bed smouldering. TUCKER was lying dead, his feet towards the bed, his head towards the fireplace. His left leg and hand were burnt to some extent. - Dr Stevenson said death had taken place eight to twelve hours before, the body being cold and rigid. TUCKER had been medically attended by Dr Nicholson for cardiac disease, and witness thought he had a heart attack, and let fall a lighted candle he was carrying and that while death was primarily due to heart failure, it was probably accelerated by burns to the left leg, hand and elbow. - In returning a verdict of "Accidental Death", the Coroner suggested that the Trustees, or some philanthropic person, might arrange for someone to visit the old people in the Almshouses daily, and without being a busybody, make it his business to see that the inmates were all right, and that there were no locked doors with somebody inside. - The Coroner added that some years ago he held an Inquest on another almshouse inmate who met his death in similar circumstances, and he was rather shocked at the evidence as to the inflammable material of the premises. The Walrond Almshouses, however, seemed to be more substantial, as was evidence by the fact that the fire which had been smouldering for hours die not spread.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 3 January 1930
NEWTON ABBOT - About a month ago a serious collision occurred near the fountain between a motor cycle, ridden by MR LEWIS REGINALD HOLWILL, and a motor car, driven by Miss M. F. Hewlett, of Hermoda Nursing Home, Teignmouth. The motor-cyclist, a resident of the village of Kingsteignton, and a son of MR and MRS THOMAS HOLWILL, sustained a broken leg, and was removed to the Newton Hospital, where he died on December 26th. He was only 17. The Coroner opened the Inquest at the Newton Town Hall on Friday morning. Only evidence of identification was given by the father, and the Inquiry was adjourned until this afternoon.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 4 January 1930
NEWTON ABBOT - Kingsteignton Crash. Inquest On Victim Of Car-Cycle Collision. Jury's Rider. - Last evening an Inquest was held at Newton Abbot concerning the death of LEWIS REGINALD HOLWILL, 17, younger son of MR and MRS HOLWILL, of Rose Cottage, Golvers-hill, Kingsteignton, who died at the Newton Hospital on December 26th, following injuries received in an accident about five weeks ago. He was riding a motor cycle near the Fountain, Kingsteignton, when he came into collision with a motor car driven by Miss M. F. Hewlett, of Hermoda Nursing Home, Teignmouth. He sustained a broken leg and other injuries, and was removed to the Hospital. - The Inquest was conducted by Mr G. Windeatt, the Deputy Coroner, who sat with a Jury, the Foreman of which was Mr A. P. Yeoman. Mr Norman Lake (Exeter) watched the proceedings on behalf of the lady driver of the motor car. - Dr D. Cromie testified that on December 1st he was called to Oakford Cross, Kingsteignton, where he saw deceased lying on the footpath badly injured. Witness had him removed in the motor ambulance to the Newton Abbot Hospital. Deceased's right leg and foot were badly injured, and an X-ray examination revealed a compound fracture of both bones of the leg. An attempt was made to save the leg, but on December 14th it was amputated. In spite of treatment the inflammation could not be overcome and he died on December 26th, death being due to septicaemia following the injuries received. - Accident Described. - George Charles Gillson said that at 2.15 p.m. he was standing on the pavement near the Church School gate. He saw deceased approaching from Newton on his proper side of the road. When nearly round the corner a motor car driven by a lady towards Newton from Teignmouth bore across towards its wrong side. Neither motor cyclist nor car driver sounded their horns. A collision occurred, although deceased bore to the left to avoid the car, which swerved to right and caught the cycle broadside on and hit deceased in the leg. HOLWILL was thrown clear of both vehicles into the footpath. The bicycle was being driven at a moderate pace and the car was proceeding at a slower rate than the cycle. - By Mr Lake: Had the cyclist tried, he could have got round the near side or rear of the car. - Answering Inspector Hannaford, witness said that deceased could not have turned more to his left. Had the car turned to the left the accident might have been avoided. - By the Foreman: Other than the two vehicles, there was no traffic about. - Sidney Chammings corroborated, and said that in his opinion the motor car was driven too fast to make the crossing. Deceased at the time was going at a moderate speed. - In reply to Mr Lake, witness said that if the car had not been there the cyclist could have negotiated the corner in safety. Deceased did not take too wide a curve. It was a nasty corner, which needed the exercise of caution by all drivers. - Motorist's Version. - Miss Hewitt, of Teignmouth, the driver of the motor car, said she was entering Kingsteignton-square at a moderate pace on the left side of the road. She sounded her horn all the way down Fore-street hill. She saw deceased come round the bend, and it was all over in a very short time. Witness considered that deceased drove at a fast pace. There was not time for her to have pulled up the car. Witness thought deceased intended to have passed her on the near side, as there appeared to be no chance for him on the other. She was in the centre of the road, and to give deceased more room she inclined to the right. She agreed that it was a dangerous corner. - By Superintendent Hannaford: She was not at all confused when she saw deceased coming. - Answering Mr Lake, witness said she never thought at first that there was going to be an accident. What happened was like lightning. Witness expressed her sorrow that the accident happened. - In reply to the father of deceased, witness said she did not lose her head. - MR HOLWILL suggested that she ought to have applied her brakes and have stopped dead so as to have avoided the occurrence. - A nurse, Miss Brigham, of Bexhill-on-Sea, an occupant of the motor car, said she was never more amazed than when the accident happened. - Verdict And Rider. - After a short retirement, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider suggesting that the accident would not have happened had the wall of the school house been removed and railings substituted. - The Deputy Coroner said he would forward the recommendation to the proper quarter. 

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 8 January 1930
EXETER - Exonian's Death. Pillion Rider's Mind A Blank As To Accident. Inquest Concluded. - The Deputy City Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, re-opened an Inquest yesterday on BERTIE ERNEST WILLIAM MAY, aged 29, of 26, Isca-road, Exeter, who died at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on August 23rd, last year, following a collision between his motor cycle and a motor car, driven by Mr Frank Huxtable, of Whitestone, at Matford-hill, between Alphington and Exminster. Miss M. C. Mears, of 22 Victoria-place, Exmouth, deceased's fiancée, who was riding pillion, was badly injured, and the Inquest was, on August 26th, adjourned for two months in order that she could appear. The Deputy Coroner, however, told the Jury yesterday that, though she had almost recovered, her mind, as regards the accident, was a complete blank. At the opening of the Inquest, Dr P. H. Fox of the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said that deceased died of shock attendant upon injuries to the legs and one of his arms. - Yesterday, P.C. Friendship said that he went to the corner of Trews-lane, Alphington, on August 23rd, and on his arrival neither vehicle had been moved. The road was 17ft. wide. The car was quite near the hedge and the motor cycle was about three feet from the bonnet of the car. Deceased was lying on his back between the car and the hedge, with his head towards the bonnet of the car. He had turned a complete somersault. The lady had been thrown over the hedge into a garden. - In reply to a question by Mr F. P. Cottey (who appeared for the relatives of deceased), witness said the bend was a bad one, and it would not be possible for the motor cyclist to see round it until he was quite near it. - In reply to Mr T. J. W. Templeman (for the driver of the car), witness said that the bend was one which should be taken with caution. - Sidney Frank Huxtable, of Southway, Whitestone, the driver of the car, said that when he first saw the motor cyclist he was in the middle of the road, and was coming straight towards him (witness) in a gentle curve. At the time of the collision witness's car was almost at a standstill. When he pulled up, deceased was lying between his car and the hedge. Witness did not see any pillion rider, and did not know that there had been one until he was told. There were two cars some distance in front of his own at the time. - Mr Cottey: Do you not think that the cause of the accident was his suddenly meeting a third car, your own, some distance behind the others on the corner? - Witness: No. I think that if I had not been there he would have hit the hedge. - Walter Henry Snell, of Alphington, said that from his house he could see up the hill. He saw the motor cyclist coming down the hill. He thought the cyclist was going much too fast for the corner. He did not think the car, which he could not see, could have been going very fast, otherwise he would have heard the noise of the engine. - Mr Cottey: Did the motor cyclist appear to be in any difficulty coming down the hill? - Witness: Yes, he seemed to be in a "speed wobble." - John William Webb, of Alphington, a motor engineer, the driver of the first of the three cars, said that when the deceased passed him he was well into his right side of the road. - Thomas Ash, of Alphington, who was in the same car as Webb, said that he turned to watch the motor cycle as it passed them, as he thought it was going rather too fast. He just saw the car involved coming round the bend. Just before the accident occurred the motor cyclist was pulling over to his wrong side of the road. Had the car not appeared, he thought the motor cyclist would have hit the hedge. - Addressing the Jury, the Deputy Coroner remarked that there was no real evidence that deceased was going too fast. No blame could be attached to Mr Huxtable, who, as the evidence showed, was coming round the corner on his right side very slowly. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Friday 10 January 1930 LYDFORD - Dartmeet Tragedy. Motor Cycle Outfit Turns Somersault And Kills A.A. Scout. - The mystery surrounding the finding on Wednesday morning at the bottom of Dartmeet Hill, near Princetown, of the dead body beneath a motor cycle combination, of MR WILLIAM STEPHENS, a Sergeant in the employ of the Automobile Association, was cleared up at the Inquest held yesterday afternoon at The Chalet, Dartmeet, by Mr H. C. Brown, of Okehampton. - Deceased was a son of MRS STEPHENS of the Warren House, Postbridge, a well known hostelry for travellers between Princetown and Moreton, and in which there is a fire of peat which, it is claimed, has burnt continuously for over a century. - Deceased, who was an efficient officer of the A.A. and much respected, served on H.M.S. Iron Duke, under Admiral Sir L. Halsey. MR STEPHENS also accompanied the Prince of Wales as a patrol during his visits to the West of England. The deepest sympathy will be extended to MR STEPHENS' mother in her recent bereavement, especially in view of the loss she sustained by the death of her husband under tragic circumstances, some few months since. - The Inquest Story. - At the Inquest evidence of identification was given by MR C. STEPHENS, motor 'bus proprietor, of Bovey Tracey, who said the deceased, a brother, was 33 years of age, unmarried and a Sergeant employed by the Automobile Association. - Mr G. A. K. White, mail van driver, stated that he was going from Princetown to Dartmeet with his van about 8.10 a.m. on Wednesday when he saw a motor cycle chain in the road at the top of Dartmeet Hill. About 200 yards further on he saw a motor cycle combination. Witness stopped, thinking the driver had lost the chain, and then found STEPHENS lying on his chest with his head on one side, with the crank case of the machine resting on the shoulder. Witness felt the man, and ask he was cold, came to the conclusion he was dead. He then telephoned to the Police at Princetown. - Dr G. Battiscombe, of Princetown, said he received a message that there had been a serious motor accident at Dartmeet. He proceeded to the spot and found deceased lying on the bank dead. He had probably been dead about two hours. Deceased had a slight abrasion on his nose, and a slight blow above the right eye. The features were livid and the lips and nose generally congealed. At a later examination he found the chest to be flat and ribs inclined to be bent out. He found no definite signs of a fracture and he attributed the cause of death to partial concussion and asphyxiation. - P.C. Tucker, of Princetown, said: "I arrived on the scene of the accident about 9.10 on Wednesday morning. The accident happened about 400 yards down the hill on the Princetown side of Dartmeet. The combination was on the right-hand side of the road on a grass bank." Witness saw deceased lying under the combination. Witness moved the outfit and got deceased out. The road at the scene was 16 feet wide. The bank which the combination mounted was nine inches. The combination was a B.S.A. 8 h.p., and weighing 334 lb. Witness tested the brakes and found the front one would not work; the back brake was inefficient owing to the back wheel having slipped back when the chain broke. It was probably all right when the chain was on. He suggested the cause of the accident was that the deceased was proceeding up the hill towards Princetown when the chain broke. He turned round to go to a place where he could mend it, and when he applied his foot brake the back wheel slipped back, causing the brake to be ineffective. Finding the machine was getting away with him down the hill deceased must have tried to stop it by turning into the bank when the machine threw him, turned a somersault and landed on top of him. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Coroner and the Jury expressing deep sympathy with the relatives.

Western Times, Friday 10 January 1930 TORQUAY - Bickington Tragedy. Newton Abbot Lady Motor Car Driver Exonerated. - "Accidental Death" was the verdict returned at the adjourned inquest held at Torquay on Friday, on MRS LIZZIE MARIA FORSYTH, of Lee Cottages, Bickington, who was involved in an accident with a motor car o December 7th and who died in the Torbay Hospital on Christmas Eve. - Mrs Violet May Cox, of 11 Torquay-road, Newton Abbot, the driver of the car which struck deceased, said the vehicle, a four seater, was fitted with four brakes. Witness was approaching the crossway roads near the Jolly Sailor Inn, Bickington, at 15 miles an hour, and noticed a woman about 20 yards ahead walking in the direction of Ashburton. The wind was blowing fairly hard at the time and the woman suddenly crossed in front of the car. Witness immediately applied the brakes, but the woman fell to the ground. When witness got out of the car she found deceased practically jammed against the wheel. Had deceased kept straight on and not turned towards the car there would have been no accident. - Mr J. W. Cox, who was in the car, said deceased stumbled in the direction of the car. - Dr Young, House Surgeon at Torbay Hospital, said death was due to pulmonary embolism. - The Jury, returning their verdict, expressed the opinion that all precautions had been taken, and that no blame attached to the driver of the car.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 14 January 1930
LYMPSTONE - "Found Drowned." Inquiry Into The Death Of The Late MR F. S. COLE. Acute Melancholia. - A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned at an Inquest at Lympstone yesterday on FRANCIS SIMCOE COLE, a solicitor and Clerk to Dawlish Council, whose body was recovered from the river Exe, near Lympstone, a few days ago. The East Devon Coroner, Mr Cyril N. Tweed, conducted the Inquest. Mr P. R. Dunning represented the relatives, while Mr Jackson appeared for the Wonford House Hospital, where deceased was a patient. - Dr H. Addison, Medical Superintendant of the Wonford House Hospital, said deceased was admitted on July 7th, 1929, suffering from acute melancholia. He was treated for this complaint until his disappearance on December 9th, 1929. Patients were kept under constant supervision day and night. If they went out of the grounds they were always accompanied by a nurse. Within three months of entering the Hospital deceased improved to a considerable extent. He talked very cheerfully, and was more hopeful with regard to his future outlook. He discussed matters freely and carefully, including the question of any impulse or resolve to do anything to himself. He vigorously denied any suicidal tendency. When he entered the Hospital as a voluntary boarder, he told witness he was losing his power of concentration, and that his practice was suffering thereby. He was undoubtedly worried over this. Witness last saw him alive on Sunday, December 8th. On the previous day witness saw him and had a long talk with him. He then appeared to be very cheerful, and asked witness when he would be well enough to go. Witness gave an indefinite answer. Deceased said he would be unable to go on with his professional work, but he talked quite coherently and was really very hopeful. He always did talk coherently, in fact, until one got down into details regarding his practice. - Witness proceeded to say that it was the practice, when patients got to a certain stage, to allow them to go into the grounds under a "ground parole." This was done to encourage some sense of trust, otherwise the patients got depressed or suspicious. The custom definitely helped recovery. He identified the body as being that of his late patient from the physique, the shape of the head, missing teeth, and by the moustache. If the patients were locked up, the speaker added, the chance of recovery would be very small, and the patients would be extremely unhappy. Witness was definitely of opinion that deceased was not suicidal. - The head male nurse at the Hospital, Mr Totterdill, said it was discovered at lunch that MR COLE was missing. Witness searched the grounds, sent three men out on cycles, and reported the disappearance to the Medical Officer. He heard nothing more about the matter until a few minutes after two, when he received a message from men, who were clearing trees from Abbey-road, stating that they had found a mackintosh and a stick. He identified the mackintosh as one belonging to MR COLE. After making a search in the vicinity, he communicated with the Police. MR COLE was under "shadow parole" from August 13th to October 17th - on ground parole, but being shadowed, although unaware of the fact. - Witness, in reply to Mr Dunning, said there were four attendants, to his knowledge, in the ground on that particular morning. - Frederick John Norton, a fisherman, of No. 2 Beach Cottages, Lympstone, said he was going down the river with two other fishermen on Friday morning, in a rowing boat, to wash some nets. When they were opposite Courtland's Arch they saw something in the water, which proved to be the body of a man. They towed it back to Lympstone, and informed P.C. Harding. - P.C. Harding said he searched the clothes of the deceased, and found some correspondence. - The Coroner, in summing up, said there was not sufficient evidence to bring in a verdict other than an open one. How MR COLE got into the water was not known. He might have fallen in accidentally, or he might have thrown himself in. - The Funeral. - The funeral took place at the parish church, Dawlish, yesterday afternoon, and was largely attended. MR COLE was Vicar's warden at the church for several years. The Vicar (the Rev. F. Simmons) officiated, assisted by the Rev. F. Ball. The hymn "Now the labourer's task is o'er" was sung, and the Psalm "The Lord is my Shepherd" and the Nune Dimittis were chanted. Mr J. F. King was at the organ. - The mourners were the widow, Mr Charles Cole (son), the Misses Lydia and Constance Cole (daughters), Miss Walker, Messrs. W. and G. Cole (Brothers), Miss Bellamy, Mrs Friend and Dr and Mrs Cann.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 15 January 1930
CULLOMPTON - Cullompton Inquest. New Born Baby In Bed With Mother And Aunt. Coroner's Warning. - "It has been pointed out over and over again that it is a very dangerous practice for a child to be sleeping in bed with its mother, and the danger is increased when there is another person there as well." This was the pronouncement of the Deputy District Coroner, Mr G. H. Stephens, when he conducted an Inquest at Cullompton yesterday on the infant child of MR WILLIAM ARTHUR BURROWS, lorry driver, of 2 Rose Cottages, New-street, Cullompton. The Jury found that the child was Accidentally smothered, and expressed their disapproval of the dangerous practice referred to. In his summing up, the Coroner also observed that it was important that matters concerning child life should be closely inquired into. - The father of the child said it was born on Saturday. When his sister-in-law called him at 2 a.m. on Sunday, the child was dead. - Nurse Rosina Board, District Nurse, said that when she left the house she understood that the mother's sister would sleep in the same bed as the mother and child, since there were only two bedrooms. - The Coroner: Did you call attention to the danger of anyone sleeping with the child? - No, sir. - Do you find it a usual practice? - I do in the cottages. Few of them provide cots. - You know it is a dangerous practice? - Yes, sir. - MISS LILY MILTON, sister of the mother, said she went to bed with MRS BURROWS after the birth of the child. She could not say whether there were any bedclothes over the child's face when she found it dead at 2 a.m. There were two blankets, a sheet, and a counterpane on the bed, and the baby was placed near the pillow. - Dr Alleyne said he saw the child immediately after the confinement and considered it quite normal. The child had every appearance of having died through being smothered. The mother had been ill for a long time, which would decrease the resisting power of the child. There was a fair amount of bedclothes on the bed. "I do not consider this a case of overlaying," he added. "There were no signs of any weight pressing on the child. It was simply that the child was smothered by the bedclothes." - The Coroner: What do you find is the practice - children sleeping in a bed with the mother or a cot? - Witness: I find they generally will be in bed. It is usually a case of Hobson's choice. - The Foreman (Mr Frank Sanders) asked whether it was not an undesirable practice for anyone to sleep with a mother and her newly born child. Witness replied that it often could not be helped.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 15 January 1930
TEIGNMOUTH - Great Storm. Pierced To The Heart. - "I am sure everybody in the town would like to express sympathy with the family, especially because he was really there trying to protect other people, and as a result sacrificed his own life." This remark was made by Mr E. Hutchings, Coroner, in returning a verdict of "Death by Misadventure" at an Inquest at Teignmouth, last night, concerning the death of MR FREDERICK CHARLES HOOK CROSS, retired builder, of Teignmouth. He was killed by being impaled on some railings in Higher Brimley-terrace. - CHARLES THOMAS CROSS said his father, who was 68, was superintending the removal of a tree which had been blown down. Deceased went to get a crosscut saw and seemed a bit excited. He returned in a couple of minutes and began to assist witness's brother to cut off some branches at the top of the fallen tree. Witness heard someone shout, "Look out! Here's another one coming." Witness warned his brother and then jumped to save his own life. When he had recovered from the shock he shouted, "Are you all right?" His brother shouted back, I'm all right. Is father with you?" They climbed through the branches of the tree and found deceased impaled on the railings of No. 16, Higher Brimley-terrace. It was some time before, with the help of Inspector Willcocks, Mr Cox and others, they could release him, because three of the spikes of the railings had pierced his body and there was a terrific gale blowing. - GEORGE CROSS said his father was originally sent for because some telephone wires had been blown down, and it was thought they might be a danger to the public. It was found, however, that the current had been cut off. - Dr A. W. Smythe de Vine said there were three punctures in the body, two being two inches wide and the other three to four inches. Death must have been practically instantaneous, as one of the spikes had pierced the heart. The funeral takes place at West Teignmouth tomorrow at 2.15.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 16 January 1930
PLYMOUTH - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest at Plymouth concerning the death of MR CHARLES WATT, age 82, of Thornhill-road, Plymouth, who died following a fall at Torquay.

Western Times, Friday 17 January 1930 ILFRACOMBE - Fatal Fall. Sad Death Of An Elderly Woman At Ilfracombe. - The North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, conducted an Inquest at the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital on Tuesday relative to the death of MRS ANNIE WILSON, wife of MR JOHN WILSON, of 1 Montpelier Terrace, Ilfracombe. Deceased on Thursday last fell down the stairs at her house and sustained injuries to the skull. - JOHN WILSON, the husband, said deceased was aged 58 years. On the 9th inst. about 1.45 a.m. he had gone to bed, and an hour later he heard his daughter scream. On going out he found his wife at the bottom of the stairs unconscious. He lifted her up and put her on the sofa and sent for Dr Boone. He could not find anything that his wife had tripped over. - MRS BATTY (daughter) said she and her mother went to bed about 1.45 a.m. Shortly afterwards her mother passed her bedroom door and said to witness that she was going downstairs to get her glasses. Witness said she would herself go down as she wanted to get something for the children, but before she could do so she heard a crash. Her mother fell right to the bottom of the stairs. Deceased had had several falls previously, and as recently as Christmas she hurt herself badly. She never gave a reason for her falls, simply saying her knees seemed to give right away. - Dr Boone said when he arrived he found MRS WILSON semi-conscious and he had her removed to the Hospital, where he had attended her. The result of the post-mortem revealed a scalp wound at the back of the head. Death was due to a fracture of the skull. - In returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," the North Devon Coroner expressed his sympathy with the husband. - MR WILSON thanked the Hospital staff and doctor for their kind attention towards them.

Western Times, Friday 17 January 1930 ILFRACOMBE - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned in the case of the death of SYDNEY ROBINS, the infant son of MRS ROBINS, of Marine Parade, Ilfracombe. Dr Boone said the child was well nourished and death was due to bronchial pneumonia.

Western Times, Friday 17 January 1930 TORQUAY - A Torquay Suicide. - "Suicide while Temporarily Insane," was the verdict returned at an Inquest at Torquay, on Monday, on WILLIAM AVERY, aged 45 years, licensee of the New Inn, Fore-street, St Marychurch, who died at the Torbay Hospital as the result of having taken disinfectant. It was stated that deceased, who had before attempted to take his life, was found in an unconscious condition on Saturday in a store on the premises. There was a mark of burning on his mouth. Deceased had been very depressed, morbid and reserved of late, due, it was thought, to the loss of his daughter. According to the medical evidence, death was due to carbolic acid poisoning.

Western Times, Friday 17 January 1930 THORVERTON - Nonagenarian's Fatal Fall At Thorverton. - The death took place on Monday night of another of Thorverton's oldest inhabitants in the person of MRS ANN WAY, of Pullen-street, in her 92nd year. Deceased, who has been an invalid for a long time, had a fall on Monday and passed away later in the day. She leaves two sons and a daughter. An Inquest without a Jury was held by the District Coroner this morning, and after hearing the evidence of Dr Banbury, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 18 January 1930
PLYMOUTH - THOMAS MITCHELL, aged 20, of H.M.S. Glorious, whose home was at Belfast, has died of injuries sustained through the breaking in two of a swing boast at the Millbay Rinkeries, Plymouth. At the Inquest a verdict of Death from Cerebral Haemorrhage was returned. It was stated that deceased had been standing up in the boat in which he was swinging.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 22 January 1930
TORQUAY - An Inquest has been held at Torquay concerning the death of MR ISAAC JOHNSON, house agent, of Chelston-grove, Torquay, whose body was found in the sea near the Abbey Sands Cafe. The Coroner, Mr E. Hutchings, returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Western Times, Friday 24 January 1930 NEWTON ABBOT - Newton Abbot Tragedy. Sexagenarian Who Committed Suicide With A Scarf. - Mr George Windeatt, Deputy Coroner, last night, conducted an Inquest at Newton Abbot on NICHOLAS JOHN HONEY, of Salisbury-road, Newton Abbot, aged 65, who was found dead in his bedroom. - DAISY BERTHA SAUNDERS, widow, said her father, who was an iron moulder, was at work last Saturday, but did not go on Monday as he did not feel well. He complained of pains in the head and seemed depressed, although he was of a cheerful disposition usually. He did not go out on Monday or Tuesday, but would not see a doctor although she asked him to do so on several occasions. On Tuesday evening about 7 o'clock, when she was about to go out, her father said "Call me in the morning, I am going to work." When she returned home he was gone to bed. - On Wednesday morning she went to call him about 8.15, later than usual as she did not intend to let him go to work, and found that something was wrong. - Dr G. M. Tanner said death was due to asphyxiation. - NORMAN WILLIAM SAUNDERS, butcher's assistant, grandson of deceased, said he was called by his mother and went to his grandfather's room to find him lying on the floor by the bed. There was a scarf around his neck and attached to the foot of the bed. - A verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 31 January 1930
EXETER - Accidental Death. Exonian Knocked Down By Motor Car. Inquest Story. - "Accidental Death with no blame attached to the driver," was the verdict returned by the Jury at an Inquest held at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, before the Deputy City Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, on MARTIN E. H. WOOSLEY, aged 80, of Isca-road, Exeter. MR WOOSLEY was knocked down by a motor car on Saturday afternoon, and died from his injuries. Mr M. J. McGahey represented deceased's relatives, and Mr N. Lake was for the driver of the car. - EDWARD MARTIN WOOSLEY, Park-road, Exeter, said his father was formerly a public groundsman in the employ of the City Council, and was a remarkable old gentleman for his age. The driver told witness that probably he might have been travelling at 15 to 20 miles an hour, and that the sun was shining in his eyes, so that he could not see. - James Vinnicombe, 43 Isca-road, said the motor car passed witness and struck MR WOOSLEY, who, witness imagined, saw the car coming, but could not get out of the way. The car was going at a medium speed, perhaps about 15 to 20 miles an hour. The car pulled up immediately. - The Foreman: It could not have been going very fast, then? - George Ernest Gill of 29 Fords-road, St Thomas, described the speed of the car as moderate, and said it was on the correct side. He heard the driver apply the brakes, and the car, which was pulled up pretty quickly, appeared to skid and knocked into the old gentleman. The sun was very strong and was shining under the arch. - By Mr Lake: He was impressed by the smart way in which the driver pulled up, and did not think he could have done anything more to avoid the accident. - Mr McGahey: Ought he not to have stopped if he was blinded by the sun so that he could not see? - Witness: It happened in a minute. - Dr Frost said death was due to shock and concussion. - Arthur Henry Stamp of 4 Powderham-crescent, driver of the car, said he was going to Torquay. About 200 yards before getting to the bridge the sun got in his eyes, and he slowed down to 15 miles an hour. When he got into the shadow of the bridge he saw deceased. He knew of nothing he could have done which he did not do to avoid the accident. He did not sound his hooter. - Replying to Mr McGahey, witness said he drove at about 15 miles an hour for about 200 yards with the sun in his eyes. He did not see the man until he was about five yards from him. - Mr Lake (on behalf of the driver of the car) and the Jury expressed sympathy with the relatives of the deceased.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 31 January 1930
TIVERTON - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned by the Borough Coroner, Mr F. R. D. Clutsom, at an Inquest yesterday, on the REV. FRANK E. PIGGOTT, Baptist Minister, who died from injuries received in a fall during a recent gale.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 1 February 1930
ASHBURTON - Murder & Suicide. Grim Narrative Related To Coroner At Ashburton. Torbryan Tragedies. Written Questions Rejected. - A grim narrative was related to the District Coroner, Mr Ernest S. Hutchings, at Ashburton Town Hall yesterday, when he conducted an Inquest on the bodies of HENRY HERMAN HEXT, 44 years, a farmer, who was found hanging from a holly tree in a wood near Bremridge Farm, Torbryan, which he occupied, on Thursday morning, and his wife, ELIZABETH JANE HEXT, aged 44, who was discovered lying in a stable on the farm the previous day with half her head shot away. Her three-year-old daughter, AGNES, was found lying by her mother's side crying piteously. The room where the Inquest was held was crowded. - Henry Badcock, of Holbrook, Liverton, brother-in-law of MR HEXT, identified the body of MRS HEXT. She was 44 years of age. There had been some unpleasantness between husband and wife from time to time. - Herbert Bradley Paramore, who was employed at Bremridge Farm as a farm labourer, said he had been working for MR HEXT for the past seven or eight years almost continuously, though he had left for short periods on two occasions. While at the farm he had lived in the house, but could not mention any bad quarrel between husband and wife. Witness left about two years ago for a short while in consequence of an upset, but later returned and had been there ever since. On Wednesday morning MR HEXT came down immediately after witness, who asked who was going to Newton Abbot for the market. MR HEXT replied, "You." Witness got the horses ready, had a cup of tea, and helped MR HEXT to get in some sheep while MRS HEXT held a lantern. MR HEXT accompanied witness about 1 ¼ miles along the road and then turned back, saying he might go to Newton Abbot with some pigs later in the day. - The Discovery. - Witness returned home shortly after 3 o'clock, and, on going to the stable door, saw the body of MRS HEXT lying on the floor. - He fetched a neighbour, Miss Pearce, and went to Ashburton for a doctor. When witness returned to the farm he saw a Police Constable there. - A sporting shot-gun was produced, which Paramore recognised as MR HEXT'S property. The gun was kept behind the stable door and cartridges on the mantel piece of the front kitchen. - On the 28th of January MRS HEXT told witness she was starting a business of her own because the farm was not paying. He had never heard of any other reason, except the business, why there should be trouble between the dead couple. He remembered having to fetch a Constable last year because of a quarrel between MR and MRS HEXT. - Police-Superintendent Martin: Did you see this cap near the body of MRS HEXT? Witness: Yes, it was usually worn by MRS HEXT about the farm. - The Coroner: It was quite obvious she was dead? - Paramore: I could see that. - Supt. Martin: When you returned to the employ of the deceased two years ago was it on the understanding that you were to take your instructions from MRS HEXT? What trouble had arisen to occasion that? When you were asked by Miss Pearce to fetch a Policeman did you remark that "He had often threatened to do it, but had not the nerve"? - What did you mean by that? - Paramore did not reply, and the questions were repeated. - The Coroner: Had he at any time threatened to shoot his wife? - Witness: Yes. - The Coroner: Is that what you meant when you said to Miss Pearce that he had often threatened to do it? - Paramore was again silent. - The Coroner: I don't see why you hesitate. Surely you are aware whether you said it? - Witness: I said it. - Did he, in effect, threaten to shoot her? - He only said it in words. He said she ought to be shot. - Have you ever told anyone before that he had threatened to shoot her? - No. - He had a gun. Did you take it as a serious threat? - I didn't think he meant it. - Supt. Martin: Did you on more than one occasion prevent him from assaulting her? - Witness: Yes. - Then there has been more trouble than you said? - Twice I prevented him from assaulting her. - Was the gun kept loaded or unloaded? - Unloaded. - Hung To Holly Tree. - P.C. Manning, of Ashburton, said that on Wednesday, at 4 p.m., he went to the farm with Dr Ellis. In the stable they saw the body of MRS HEXT, who was lying on her back. - The right side of her face was badly shattered. About a foot from her right elbow was a man's cap and about three feet from the body was the cap MRS HEXT had been accustomed to wear. There were no signs of any struggle. He made a search, and in a loft above the stable found a double-barrelled gun lying on a heap of hay with the trigger guard upwards. The right barrel was loaded and the trigger cocked. The left barrel was empty and there was no sign of a spent cartridge. He made a search for MR HEXT, but could not find him. - P.S. Hall, Ashburton, said that on Thursday he was searching for the husband in a wood near the farm, in company with Inspector Hannaford and a number of Constables, when they came upon MR HEXT hanging by the neck from a holly tree. A rope was tight round his neck and his feet were about 2ft. 6in. from the ground. He was immediately cut down, but was found to be dead. His body was later removed to Ashburton mortuary. - WILLIAM HENRY HEXT, of Bank House, Ashburton, identified the body as that of his son. He would have been 44 years old next August. The last time witness saw him alive was at Newton Abbot last Wednesday week, when he appeared to be quite normal. So far as witness knew, there was nothing to worry his son. - Extraneous Matters. - The Coroner asked MR HEXT if he wished to put any questions to any of the previous witnesses. - MR HEXT said he would get a friend of his, a Mr A. Elston, to write them on a piece of paper. - The questions were handed to the Coroner, who, after perusing them, said: I cannot allow extraneous matters to be brought into these inquiries. I never allow any question to be put to a witness which might be unfair to anyone. - Dr Ernest Alfred Ellis, Ashburton, gave evidence of finding the body of MRS HEXT in the stable. He was of opinion that she had been dead for about four or five hours. Later he examined the body and found that death was caused by a gunshot wound in the head. - The shot had entered at the back of the neck, slightly towards the left side where the head joined the neck. This wound was about half an inch across, the skin surrounding it being scorched and blackened. The right side of the face and head was blown away and the bones of the skull were shattered. - Death must have been instantaneous. There were no other marks of violence on the body. There were mud-stains on both knees and thighs. - The Coroner: Was the gun fired at close range? - Dr Ellis: At quite close range. - The Coroner: Would the wound be consistent with a shot from the gun produced? - Dr Ellis: Yes. She was probably standing up, and was shot from behind, falling forward on to her knees. She would have been dead when she fell. On the next day he saw the body of MR HEXT at the Mortuary, and found the neck was broken. Death was due to strangulation by hanging. - The Coroner then asked MR HEXT (the father) if he wished to put any other questions to witness than those written down? - MR HEXT: No. - The Verdict. - Mr Hutchings repeated that he would not allow questions to be put in that Court or any other over which he presided that might be unfair to anybody. - "I am not going to set curious people agog as to what a certain questions means," continued the Coroner. "If anybody has any charge to make against anyone else let them make it fair and straight without innuendoes. I will not have an injustice done to any person," he concluded. - Addressing the Jury, the Coroner said he did not think they could return any other verdict except that MR HEXT murdered his wife and then committed suicide. - After a brief retirement, the Jury brought in a verdict as suggested by the Coroner, and added that MR HEXT was of Unsound Mind when he took his own life. - Mr Hutchings, expressing approval of the finding, said the Jurymen were not permitted in that Court to give any opinion of the state of the mind of MR HEXT when he killed his wife, but he thought they meant he was insane. - The Jury agreed MR HEXT must have been insane when he committed both deeds. - The funeral has been arranged provisionally to take place at Chagford on Monday at 2 o'clock.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 4 February 1930
EXETER - Fatal Burns. Deputy Coroner And Need For Fire Screens. Exeter Inquest. - The necessity for screening fires when leaving young children alone in a room was emphasised yesterday by the Deputy City Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, at an Inquest at Exeter concerning the death of BARBARA MARY BEE, aged 3, of 3 York-place, Coombe-street, who died at the Exeter Hospital on Sunday morning from burns, as a result of her clothing having caught fire on Saturday. "I do hope," said Mr Brown, "it will be a warning to others to carry out the law, which says, 'if a child under seven years of age is being left in a room containing a fire, a fire-screen must be provided.'" - JAMES BEE, father, said the accident occurred in his absence, BARBARA being left in the kitchen with her twin sister. So far as he knew nothing was hanging in front of the fire at the time. In his opinion the accident resulted through the child thrusting a knife into the fire. Formerly there was an open fire, but owing to a previous experience, when some clothing caught fire, a cooking stove was substituted. - MRS BEE said she went out about four o'clock, leaving the twins in the kitchen. She could not remember leaving a knife, but there must have been one on the table. Witness went to a shop across the road, but had not time to ask for the milk she required when she heard a scream, and someone shouted "She is afire." Witness screamed, but was unable to move. When she left the house the children were quite safe in front of the fire. - Leonard E. Caley of 4 York-place, said he noticed an unusual light in the kitchen of No.3, and after shouting to his wife, he entered the house. Opening the kitchen door he was met with smoke and flames, and saw deceased standing by the table with her clothing in flames. The tablecloth was also burning. Witness carried the child outside and smothered the flames with a mat. - The Coroner: I think you acted very promptly, Mr Caley, and did everything you possibly could. - Dr F. E. Webster, Senior House Surgeon at the Hospital, said that when admitted to the Institution, the child was suffering from severe burns extending from the forehead to the legs. Death was due to shock following burns. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Western Times, Friday 7 February 1930 PARKHAM - Young Man's Suicide. Remarkable Story At North Devon Inquest. Another Man's Wife Censured. - At the Inquest at Horns Cross, near Bideford, yesterday, on NORMAN DANIEL, aged 25, who was, Wednesday afternoon found hanging in a shed in a garden at the back of the cottage in which he lived, there were some remarkable revelations. - Summing up the case, the North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, said it was a very sad and sordid case. It appeared that the young man was married, and lived at home with his wife and parents, and had a very comfortable home. He casually met a woman, Mrs Wrey, in Bideford, and she at once took him to her residence, where he came frequently and stayed. - "It is a terrible case, " continued the Coroner. "This young man of 25 picks up this woman, who is married herself and has three children. At this point I want to say how terribly sorry I am for the husband of Mrs Wrey. Mr Wray lives in Wiltshire, and he received an anonymous letter. He tried to get more information. He could not do so and came home. He found this woman living in adultery and carrying on in a terrible manner. Mrs Wrey was living with her children, and I think it very terrible. Her son is aged 14 and children today know more at 14 than we did at 20, and he must have known what was happening." - "It is a terrible thing for a child to have to regard his mother as an immoral woman. This young man, DANIEL, was led on in such a way that when Mrs Wrey's husband came home, he saw he would be landed with her and his lawful wife as well, and it out of work at any time would be unable to maintain two women. He 'got out of it," saying 'it was the better way.'" - "Perhaps it was," commented the Coroner, "although it is a crime to take one's life. But I cannot say he was of unsound mind. It is very sad." - Woman Censured. - Addressing Mrs Wrey, the Coroner said: "As for you, Mrs Wrey, the responsibility for this man's death lies at your door, and I hope it will be a lesson to you for the rest of your life. Besides this, you have broken up your own family and have rendered yourself unfit to be the guardian of your children. I should like to say again how sorry I am for your husband and I hope he will take care of the children and not leave them under your charge. You are a disgrace to womanhood. Mrs Wrey, you may go." - At this juncture Mr Wrey advanced towards the Coroner and in a broken voice said: "I am going to take her back for the kiddies' sake. If I turn her away God knows what will become of her. In the future I will place her on her honour." - The Coroner: It is very noble of you. - Mr Wrey further said he would take his wife and children right away. - The Coroner: Take them out of this atmosphere. - Evidence was given by LILIAN DANIEL, widow who said there was one child of the marriage. - The Coroner: Did it come to your knowledge that he was spending a lot of time in Bideford? - Yes, sir. - Did you know where he was at the time? - No. - Did you enquire? - People told me; I did not enquire. People told that he was with Mrs Wrey. - Did you speak to him about it? - Yes. - Did he promise to give her up? - No. - Did he go there again? - Yes. - Did you think it right for him to go to Bideford with this woman? - Mrs Wrey should have known better. - Why didn't you go to the place; you did nothing? - There was no reply. - Was he in work? - He was at first working as a labourer. - Did he give you money? - Yes. - Witness further stated that she last saw her husband on Wednesday morning. - Asked again by the Coroner when her husband went to Bideford she said it was on 11th January that he first stayed away. - In answer to further questions witness said that early on Wednesday morning her husband told her he wanted to write a letter. - Letter From Deceased. - The Coroner then read the following note. - "Please do not grieve over this. It is the only way out of it. I cannot live without Cissie Wrey. She is the only one I love. Please do one thing for me. Let her know I have done it. Best love, NORMAN." - MRS ELLEN DANIEL, mother of deceased, described DANIEL'S married life and said it was not successful. They did not appear suitable to each other, and he was never happy when at home. He married his wife after knowing her three months. - The widow then interposed: "No, mother; it was 18 months." - Witness, continuing, said everything was done to keep the deceased from going to Bideford, but he told her that he would rather go without his food than not go to Bideford. - The Coroner: Why didn't you make it your business to stop this villainous woman? - He was a man, not a boy. - Why didn't you put the Police on her? - No reply. - Witness described how she found her son hanging and said the message he left was pinned on the door. - The Coroner asked witness if her son had ever threatened to take his life before. - Witness replied that deceased had said life was not worth living, but he had not threatened to take his life. "But I watched him," she added. - Medical evidence was called, and then Mrs Wrey, a smartly dressed woman, gave evidence. She said she was called Marianne Wrey and that her husband was living away. She had three children and was receiving an allowance from her husband. - The Coroner: Have you been keeping a disorderly house? - No. - Do you have men in? - One only. - This one? - No other. - Did you know he was married? - Yes. - Did your children know what was going on? - No. - How old is the eldest? - Fourteen and a half. - The Coroner: Surely he must have known? - He did not. - Did you think it the right thing to have this man there? - No, but it drifted on. - And you see the result? - Yes. - Was your husband coming home? - Yes. - I suppose it was a surprise packet when he came? - No, we expected him, but DANIEL would not go, saying my husband would not kill him. - The Coroner asked how she met the deceased and witness replied, "He was standing at my door one evening and spoke to me." - Mr Harry Wrey, husband of the last witness, in his evidence, said he received an anonymous letter, and he came home. He went upstairs and "there they were." I said to him, "What are you doing here?" I took his name and age, and then told him to get out. I said I should commence divorce proceedings and told him then he could have her. I then saw him off the premises. - This concluded the evidence and a verdict of "Suicide" was returned. [Western Times, Friday 14 February 1930 - Mistake In A Name At Bideford: On Friday morning the "Western Times" reported an Inquest at Horns Cross, near Bideford, upon Norman Daniel, who committed suicide following a love affair with a Mrs Wrey, of Bideford. The report was taken over the telephone, and most unfortunately, by some inexplicable mischance, the name of the husband of the Mrs Wrey concerned was rendered as Mr Harry Wrey. There is a Mrs Harry Wrey living with her husband at East-the-Water, Bideford, but she was not concerned in any way with the man, or with the case. It was another woman living in quite another part of the town. We hasten to tender to Mrs Harry Wrey, of East-the-Water, the completest apology for the error, and to express our regrets for any inconvenience that it may have caused her.]

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 7 February 1930
EXETER - Sandford Lady's Death. Inquest Adjourned. - The Deputy City Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, opened an Inquest at the Court House, Exeter, concerning the death of MARY ANN FISHLEIGH, of Sandford, who died at the Hospital. - GEORGE FISHLEIGH, of the Mill, Sandford, said his mother was knocked down by a cyclist at Crediton. - The Inquest was adjourned until today.

Western Times, Friday 14 February 1930 ASHFORD - "Manslaughter" Verdict At N. Devon Inquest. Three Persons Sent For Trial. Five-Year-Old Child's Death. - A Coroner's Jury at Ashford, near Barnstaple, on Friday, returned a verdict of "Manslaughter" against three persons who figured in an Inquiry into the death of DOREEN PATRICIA LONEY, the five and a half years' old illegitimate child of GLADYS LONEY, a single woman, residing at 38 Regent-street, St Thomas, Exeter, and the North Devon Coroner, Mr George Brown, thereupon committed them for trial at the next Assize. The persons committed were the child's mother, and Frank Robert Adams and his wife, Ethel Mary Adams of 5 Drill Hall terrace, Bampton, whom the Jury found "guilty of gross negligence in connection with the child's death." The Coroner admitted all three to bail. - On hearing the Coroner's pronouncement, Mrs Adams, a young woman, broke down. - The hearing lasted over two hours. Mr C. A. Reed was Foreman of the Jury, which included one woman. - Explaining the facts, the Coroner said at the age of three weeks the child was placed in the care of Mrs Louisa Ware, of Ashford village, to be kept for the sum of 10/- weekly. She remained with Mrs Ware up to 29th January last, and was as well cared for as though she had been Mrs Ware's own. About Christmas the child was taken ill, Dr S. R. Gibbs, of Barnstaple, being at once sent for and found the child suffering from diphtheria. Dr Gibbs treated her and left instructions with Mrs Ware as to her care, and everything was carried out satisfactorily and the child recovered, other than it was left with a very weak heart, as often was the case following diphtheria in children. Dr Gibbs ordered that the child, in this weak state, should be kept downstairs in the same room where she had been, and gave instructions that on no account must she be taken out. - About 26th January, Mrs Ware received information from the mother that she had made arrangements for transferring the child to a Mr and Mrs Adams, of Bampton, and she at once wrote telling the mother that the child was not fit to be moved, and that it would be contrary to the doctor's orders. She was then told by "these people" to take the child to Barnstaple Junction Railway Station the next day. This she refused to do - quite rightly - and on the 29th Jan. a car arrived with Mr and Mrs Adams and the mother of the child, and in spite of what Mrs Ware said the child was taken by car to Bampton. They would hear from the doctor that it was a wonder that the child survived the journey. The child was in such a weak state that it could not stand up when it got to Bampton. Next day the child was brought back by Mr and Mrs Adams to Mrs Ware at Ashford. They had written to the mother stating that they had taken the child to a doctor and acted on the advice they received. On enquiries, however, he (the Coroner) found that that was not so. Evidently they saw that they had made "this terrible mistake" and returned the child to Mrs Ware as quickly as possible. Unfortunately the damage had been done, for the child subsequently died. - At this stage of the proceedings, Mr S. A. Copp, solicitor, of Barnstaple, intimated that he was present to represent the child's mother, who was the first witness to be called. - MISS LONEY, a smartly dressed young woman, deposed to the child being put into Mrs Ware's care three weeks after its birth. Witness said she went to Ashford with Mr and Mrs Adams on Jan. 29 to see the child, and said she suggested, before doing so, that they should see the doctor. She explained that she went to Bampton with a letter from Mrs Ware to say the child was not fit. - The Coroner (perusing a letter): But your sister wrote to Mrs Ware on the 27th Jan. and said she was afraid the people would not wait for a month because the child was ill? - They were very anxious to have her, and I was out of work and worried how to pay the money. - Had you explained that the child was ill? - Yes, I took the letter Mrs Ware wrote. - Your sister wrote, didn't she, and sent Mrs Ware's letter? - That was previously, I think. - The Coroner: That was only on the 27th January? - I went on the day we went to Barnstaple. I went to Bampton to show them the letter that PAT was not fit to travel. - Have you the letter now? - No, I believe I destroyed it. - The Coroner: Mrs Ware had written to say that the child was unfit to travel, and that the doctor had forbidden it? - She sent the address of the doctor. - The Coroner: If you wished to communicate with him? - Yes. - You explained this? - I showed them the letter. - Did they still decide to come on? - They suggested coming to Mrs Ware's, but I suggested first going to the doctor's on the way. - Did you do that? - No. "He" said we had better go right to Mrs Ware's. - Witness went on to say that on their arrival they found the child sitting on the bed in a downstair room, and she told Mrs Ware she had brought the lady and gentleman to see the little girl. The child did not stand up, but cried a good deal. Mrs Ware kept telling her she was going away from her "mother" who would not see her again, and that upset the child very much. - Did she tell the people the doctor had forbidden ---? She said the doctor said she was too weak to travel. - Did you then decide to take the child away? - I asked them (Mr and Mrs Adams) if they thought she was fit, and they said they thought she was. - Did you give your consent to her going? - Yes, on condition they had a doctor next morning. - Having then decided, did Mrs Ware again protest? - No. She said "I will get her ready." - Did she suggest you should go and ask Dr Gibbs on the way? - She said "Have you seen the doctor?" and I said "No." - Witness explained that the journey was made in a closed car and the child, wrapped in two blankets, was driven straight to Bampton. The child slept all the way, and was very quiet on arrival. Mr and Mrs Adams promised to have a doctor next morning and witness then left for Exeter. - Child Sobbing - Or Heartbroken? - Witness made no reply to the Coroner's next question as to whether she did not think it necessary to see a doctor that night. The child was just sobbing when she left it. - "Heartbroken?" suggested the Coroner. - "No, just sobbing," replied the witness, who went on to say that the Adams' were going to write to her to say how the child was. They were going to take sole charge of the child without any payment. - Were you going to formally apply to the Magistrates for leave for these people to adopt the child? - Yes. - On the Monday she received a letter from Mr Adams saying that the child had been returned to Mrs Ware. - The Coroner read the letter, dated 31st January, which was as follows:- "I am very sorry to have to tell you that we were compelled to take PAT back to Mrs Ware. We were ever so sorry to have to do this, but I am sure you will appreciate our action when you have heard what I am going to tell you. We had the doctor to see her, and he examined her and told us we were to take her back immediately, as she is in a very low state owing to her illness. He said there would be absolutely no chance for her recovery with us, as she was breaking her heart for her mother. She would not take in anything. We could do nothing for her, as she was continually asking to be taken home to her mother. Of course, if she had been well she would soon have got over this, but under the circumstances we had no other alternative than to take her back. There is no doubt that the poor little dear has been very ill. She could not stand, and her cough was heartbreaking to hear. We tried all we could to make her comfortable, but it was no good. She would not let us touch her, and her speech is affected. We thought perhaps that was the trouble, but the doctor, when he examined her, says that the diphtheria has left her with paralysis of the throat, and after considering all the circumstances, we feel we aren't justified in taking her away. Of course, PAT belongs to you, and really it is not our business to try and advise you, but I don't think it would be wise for you to contemplate taking her away from Mrs Ware, at least until she is quite well again, as I am afraid PAT is in a worse state of health than you imagine. Trusting to hear from you again, yours faithfully, F. R. Adams." - The Coroner: So you thought he had been to a doctor and got all this advice and it confirmed what Dr Gibbs had said? - Certainly. - Witness explained that she got in touch with Mr and Mrs Adams through a newspaper advertisement. - Doctor Not Seen. - The Foreman (inquiringly): A doctor never saw the child after leaving Mrs Ware until it was returned to Mrs Ware? - The Coroner: No. - The Coroner (to witness): From that you see the folly of what you did on the 29th, don't you? - Yes, sir. - You were warned it was dangerous and it was against the doctor's orders, were you not? - Yes, sir. - The Foreman: Had MISS LONEY been in the habit of visiting the child? - No, sir. I hadn't the means to do it. - You were a complete stranger to the child really? - Yes, sir. - No Claim Made On The Father. - The Coroner: Are you getting any maintenance from the father? - No, sir, not a penny. It was kept secret. My mother was the only one who knew. I have never made any claim at all and haven't seen him (the father) since two months after. - The Coroner: The father is equally liable for the maintenance of the child. You had to take away the child because you could not afford it? - Yes. Witness further explained that her mother was now dead. - Mr Copp: Was it the express wish of your mother that no claim should be made against this man? - Yes. - And in consideration of that, did your mother, until her death, assist in the maintenance of this child? - Yes. - Mr Copp: Unfortunately she died some time ago, and no further help was forthcoming? - Witness made no reply. - In December you had a letter from Mrs Ware saying that the child was suffering from diphtheria and did Mrs Ware tell you that the child was improving? - Yes. - Did she mention anything about after-effects? - She said she was just weak. - When you received the letter read by the Coroner, did you believe that the Adams had obtained a doctor for the child? - Oh, yes. - Would you have let them have the child if they hadn't promised to get a doctor? - Not then. - As a matter of fact, on your way to Mrs Ware's, did you wish yourself to go and see the doctor? - Yes, I suggested it. - Were you persuaded not to do so? - Persuaded to go right to Mrs Ware's. - The Coroner: Why were you persuaded - you, the mother, persuaded by other people? - I don't know. - Foster Mother's Story. - Mrs Louisa Ware, wife of Frederick Ware, of Ashford, spoke to the instructions given her by Dr Gibbs as to the care of the child during and after its illness. When she received a letter asking her to take the child to Barnstaple Junction Station, she replied that she should not do that, and that if the mother wanted the child she would have to fetch it, as it was not in a fit state to be moved. In spite of this the mother and Mr and Mrs Adams arrived on 29th January. They asked for PAT and "I told them she was not fit." - Did you tell them what the doctor had said? - Yes, sir. - What did they say? - They said they could see a doctor at the other end. I asked if they were going to see Dr Gibbs, and they said they could see a doctor at the other end. They took the child away, although the child did not want to go. Next day Mr and Mrs Adams brought the child back again and the child, who was in a weak state, seemed delighted. They said they could not do anything with her as she kept crying and asking for her "mother." - They told you they had taken her to a doctor? - Yes, and the doctor said she would not get any better as long as she was fretting. The child seemed to get on fairly well until Wednesday, when it died. It was nothing like it was before going away. - By Mr Copp: They did not know there was anything beyond the diphtheria, except that she was weak. - Did you hear Mr and Mrs Adams say to the mother that the child was fit to travel? - I think they said she would not hurt. - Did you hear the mother tell the Adams to see the doctor the following day? - Yes. - Doctor's Praise Of Mrs Ware. - Dr S. R. Gibbs, of Barnstaple, said it was one of the worst cases of diphtheria he had seen for a good many years, and he was absolutely satisfied with the way Mrs Ware looked after the child. He told Mrs Ware it was only her devoted attention to the child that brought it through. Her devotion to the child was most striking. The child was on the mend, but it was a very slow process. The most important part of the whole treatment was the very careful nursing back to its normal life without any undue movement of any sort. Mrs Ware wrote to him on the Saturday, sent him on a letter she had received, and asked if the child was fit to be moved, and he replied on the bottom of the letter, "No, not for a month." Then on the Wednesday he repeated this instruction to her. The child was in a very low, nervous state and far from being out of danger at the time it was moved. On the morning he visited the child was still dangerously ill and quite unfit to be moved. The cause of death was heart failure following diphtheretic paralysis. The shock of the removal to Bampton and back was dangerous to a child in its condition. Dr Gibbs said he wished to be perfectly fair. He was not going to say if the child was not moved that it would not have died. - The Coroner: As matters were going on when you saw the child on the 29th had she got as good a chance of living as dying? - Yes, I should say she had. - Replying to Mr Copp, Dr Gibbs said he kept nothing back from Mrs Ware as to the seriousness of the child's condition. - Frank R. Adams' Admission. - Frank Robert Adams of 5 Drill Hall Terrace, Bampton, was questioned as to the letter he wrote the child's mother, the Coroner asking: Are all these statements contained in that letter with regard to the interview with the doctor and his opinion false? - We didn't see the doctor. - The Coroner: Therefore they are false. - Witness agreed. - The Coroner: Why did you write that letter to the mother? - When we returned the child to Mrs Ware we explained why we had done so, and she told us she was suffering from paralysis of the throat and I wrote the letter afterwards. - Witness explained that when they fetched the child from Ashford MISS LONEY left his wife and himself in the car outside the house. When she came to Bampton MISS LONEY said she had had a letter from Mrs Ware, which she showed them. - Was there something further said about your seeing the doctor on your way through Barnstaple? - Not that I remember. I was driving and MISS LONEY never mentioned the fact to me. The mother interviewed Mrs Ware before we had the child. - Did you over-persuade MISS LONEY to go on and get the child, or did she over-persuade you? - Neither one. I suggested we went to see the child, and MISS LONEY said yes, and they did so. - Witness said his wife and himself did not go into Mrs Ware's house for about ten minutes, and when they did so Mrs Ware was talking to MISS LONEY. He could not exactly remember the conversation. He asked the child if it would like to come with them and it said "No." - Who decided that the child was fit to travel? - That I can't say, sir. I don't remember anyone deciding. I came out soon after that to prepare the car, and within about five minutes my wife brought the child out in her arms. - The Coroner: MISS LONEY says, "I asked Mr and Mrs Adams if they thought the child fit to travel and they said "Yes," and I gave my consent to their taking the child that night." Did you form the opinion that the child was fit to travel? - I didn't express an opinion that she was fit to travel. I assumed she was, otherwise I would not have taken her. - Did Mrs Ware tell you what the doctor had said that the child was not to be moved for a month? - No; Mrs Ware told us nothing of that until we returned the child. What was told MISS LONEY when she was alone with her I don't know. - Was any suggestion made to you to see Dr Gibbs on the way? - None at all. - Did Not Realise She Was So Ill. - Didn't you think it advisable? - No; we didn't realise she was so ill. When they replied to the advertisement they assumed the child was in good health. - The Coroner: You were shown the letter stating that the child was unfit to travel? - Yes; I quite agree to that. When they realised the child was ill they were anxious to get her back to Mrs Ware and so sent the letter. - The Coroner: In rougher parlance you had got the wind up? - Witness: There is no need to put it like that. We would have liked that child as well as anyone. - Was this to get out of your bargain? - Not at all, because we were willing to have the child again when she was quite better. - Why didn't you wait until it was well? - We didn't realise that she was so ill until we got home. We had never seen the child before and thought it was all right. MISS LONEY was under the impression Mrs Ware was stating the child was worse than it really was in order to keep it. If we were sure she was too ill we would not have taken her. They were doing this for the love of the child, which they wanted. They bought it extra toys and thought in a day or so she would have got over the parting with Mrs Ware. They did not realise until they got home that the child was so ill and then thought it better to be back with Mrs Ware than for it to be with strangers. - Mr Copp: I suggest MISS LONEY wanted you to wait a week or two before going? - I don't know what she wanted. I believe she was under the impression that if she did wait we should not want the child. - Nothing Said About Doctor. - Mrs Ethel Mary Adams, wife of the last witness, gave similar evidence to that of her husband and said they had a little boy of their own 3 ½ years old. MISS LONEY said she thought the child was fit to travel and nothing was said about stopping to see a doctor. MISS LONEY said she did not think the child had had diphtheria and they put the child's condition down to her distress at parting. - Asked by the Coroner about the "concoction" of this letter, witness said her husband did it to justify himself in taking the child back, as they did not want MISS LONEY to be under the impression they wanted to get rid of the child. "We saw the child was ill, and would not let us do anything for her." - Why didn't you see a doctor? - We thought it would only upset her more. - MISS LONEY, recalled, said it was a joint decision on the part of Mr and Mrs Adams and herself to take the child. - "I would not have taken her away if I had had employment" MISS LONEY said pathetically, adding "my being out of work and not having anyone to help me prompted me to remove the child from Mrs Ware's" - The Coroner put a number of questions to the Jury to answer and they found that the child died of Heart Failure, but her death was not the direct consequence of being removed to Bampton; the mother and Mr and Mrs Adams were directly responsible for her removal. - The Jury gave an affirmative reply to the question whether the parties, or any of them, were cautioned and warned by Mrs Ware that Dr Gibbs had absolutely forbidden the child to be moved owing to the grave danger to its health and the Jury found them guilty of Gross Negligence. They were satisfied that Mrs Ware did all that was required. - The Coroner said the verdict meant one of "Manslaughter" against MISS LONEY and Mr and Mrs Adams and it was his duty to commit them for trial at the next Assize.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 14 February 1930
EXETER - "Nothing To Live For." Crediton Tragedy. - "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was the verdict returned by the Deputy City Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, at an Inquest this week at the Court House, Exeter, concerning the death of JOHN ATTWELL of 64 East-street, Crediton, retired carpenter, who died on Saturday at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital from throat wounds. - MRS ADA BREALLY of 78 Howell-road, Exeter, identified the body as that of her uncle, aged 75. He had never mentioned how his throat became cut. "He always was depressed," added witness, "and lately he had been terrible." Answering the Coroner, witness said deceased was very grieved over the death of his wife. - Alice Chamberlain, of East-street, Crediton, said she had been in the habit of visiting deceased every day to see if he was all right. He was very depressed. On going to him at 7.30 on the morning of January 25th she found him sitting in a chair. He made no reply to her inquiry, and on a closer examination she saw that his throat was cut. Witness called Mrs Bond, a neighbour. - P.C. Mardon (Crediton) said that deceased remarked to him, "I have nothing to live for; I want to go up above." Witness produced a blood-stained razor which he found in a cupboard. - Dr Webster said deceased was improving until February 2nd, when pneumonia developed and this was the cause of death.

Western Times, Friday 14 February 1930 EXETER - Crediton Fatality. Cyclist "Not Man Enough To Face Consequences." - A verdict of "Accidental Death, in accordance with the medical evidence, there being insufficient evidence to show who knocked deceased down," was returned at an Inquest at the Court House, Exeter, on Friday by the Exeter Deputy Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, on MARY ANN FISHLEIGH, The Mills, Sandford. Deceased was knocked down by an unknown cyclist on Tuesday, January 21st, and died at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on Thursday, January 30th, from severe injuries received. - MRS ROSINA GRACE TONKIN, of Sanders Water, Crediton, said while walking with her mother down the very steep Torches Hill, between Crediton and Sandford, on January 21st, a cyclist came upon them, suddenly, from behind, knocking witness aside and her mother into the gutter. The cyclist was thrown. She requested him to obtain medical assistance, but he made no answer, and went straight on. Another cyclist with him did not stop. Her mother was removed to the Exeter Hospital in a 'bus. - Edward Hatton, who described himself as a chemist's assistant, stated he was overtaken by a cyclist, who accosted him and, touching him on the shoulder, said "Edward." Who it was he could not say, and he did not think he would recognise the voice again. - John Dicker, of Hellions Barton, Sandford, admitted being passed on the road by two cyclists who had exceptionally poor lights. - Dr J. E. Webster, Senior House Surgeon of the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, stated that deceased was suffering from severe head injuries and remained unconscious until her decease, which, in his opinion, was due to cerebral contusion. - Police Sergeant Melhuish, of the Devon Constabulary, Crediton Division, stated that all those who used the road that evening were closely questioned with regard to their movements on the night in question and had given satisfactory answers. - The Coroner: I hope you will continue your enquiries. - Witness: My instructions are to spare no effort or expense. - The Coroner suggested that a verdict of "Accidental Death" should not be returned so that the Police should not have their hands tied with regard to the investigation. They hoped to trace the cyclist who had given a bad impression by riding ahead. He was not man enough to face the consequences.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 15 February 1930
EXETER - Inquest Adjourned. Exeter Station Fatality: Alleged Complaints. Trolley Braking. - Allegations that there had been complaints to the Southern Railway Company regarding the tendency of the braking apparatus of the porters' trolleys to jerk, or "kick," were made during the course of the investigation by the Deputy Exeter Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, yesterday into the circumstances surrounding the death of EDWARD HENRY BARNES, 64, railway porter, of 4 Newman's-buildings, Well-street, Exeter, who died in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on Thursday from injuries received through being run over by an engine at Queen Street Station on Wednesday evening. - Mr F. P. Cottey (Exeter) represented deceased's relatives, and Mr J. C. Chambers (solicitors' department, Waterloo Station) represented the Southern Railway Company. A Jury was empanelled. - Evidence was given by a son to the effect that deceased's hearing and eyesight were good, and that he had never heard his father complain about his work. - The Deputy Coroner and members of the Jury inspected the trolley being used by the deceased at the Station at the time of the accident. - Charles Henry Davey, engine driver, stated that on Wednesday he was driving the train from Salisbury due at Exeter at 4.57 p.m. As the train was passing the Exmouth bay he saw someone apparently stumble from the edge of the platform on to the line in front of the engine, which was then proceeding at about four or five miles an hour. Witness blew the engine whistle and applied the brakes, but the engine and part of the first coach went over the body. - Jerking Alleged. - William Albert Sims, draughtsman in the divisional engineer's department, proved plans, and subsequently described the accident. As the train was running into the platform he saw "something moving on the permanent way," and the train bowl over the object, which he then realised was the deceased, who was rolled over and over by the engine and the first carriage. None of the wheels went over the body. He observed a truck with the handle facing up the platform towards the oncoming engine. - By Mr Cottey: The trolley was 2ft. 10in. from the edge of the platform. - By the Deputy Coroner: The handle was about 18 inches from the edge of the platform. - By Mr Cottey: When the handle was in an upright position the trolley's brakes were automatically applied. The front wheels were at an angle of 45 degrees towards the engine. - Frederick Baker, excess luggage collector, deposed that the weight of the luggage on the trolley driven by deceased was three and a half cwts. - By the Foreman of the Jury (Mr J. Gibson): Witness had pushed along heavier loads. - By Mr Cottey: He had known such trolleys "kick" sometimes. - Mr Cottey: Is it not a fact that there have been one or two people who have been jerked round through the barrow stopping like this? - Witness: I don't know. - Frank Holmes, foreman in charge of the carriage and waggon repair depot at Exmouth Junction, stated that the trolley was sent to the depot for repair in December last, and was returned, practically rebuilt, for use on January 6th. It was in perfect condition on Thursday. - By Mr Cottey: The braking was effected by means of a spring. Every upward movement of the handle should bring the trolley to a standstill. The apparatus was designed to prevent a trolley running off the platform. - Mr Cottey: What happened, in all probability, on this day was that one of the bolts on the front wheel went into a hole in the wheel, but the other bolt on the other side did not, and that caused a sudden jerking of the handle to the right? - Witness: I cannot agree. - Do you say it is not possible? - It is possible. - Do you know anything about any complaint with regard to this particular type of brake? - None whatever. - You have never heard of complaints to the Company of the wheel-locking apparatus of the truck? - Officially, I have heard nothing. - I see, you are in front of the Coroner now: answer "Yes" or "No." Have you heard any complaints about the sudden pulling up of this particular trolley? - No. - By Mr Chambers: He thought the deceased might have misjudged the distance of the platform. - P.C. Squires (Devon Constabulary) spoke to seeing the deceased fall on to the line within a couple of yards of the engine. - Dr D. Wilkie, House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said deceased's injuries comprised a fracture of the base of the skull and dislocation of the right shoulder. - More Evidence Sought. - At this juncture Mr Cottey submitted that some evidence should be produced from the headquarters of the Company with regard to the alleged complaints that had been made as to the jerking of the braking apparatus of the trolleys. If his instructions were correct, complaints had been made, and the Company had promised to take the matter up and consider it. - The Deputy Coroner pointed out that he did not know what advocate's instructions were. - Mr Cottey said he could probably call evidence on the point. The purpose of the Inquiry was to secure the best evidence obtainable, and he suggested some departmental evidence might be produced to throw more light on the subject, in view of the public statements that had been made. - The Deputy Coroner said there was no evidence at the moment to indicate that the trolley had anything to do with the death. - Mr Cottey: Except that the handle was inclined towards the line, and the evidence of Holmes that it is possible for one wheel to catch in this rib or bolt. - Mr Chambers said that, so far as he knew, there was no record of complaints. - Mr Cottey: That is the suggestion from the Station itself practically; it is rumour in the Station. - Mr Chambers: I understand the Station-master has had no complaints regarding these trolleys. - Mr Cottey intimated he would do his best to get more evidence if he Deputy Coroner thought it advisable. If the Jury, however, were satisfied that the handle had nothing to do with the accident he would withdraw. - The Deputy Coroner: If there is any possibility of getting more evidence it is my duty to get it. - Mr Chambers submitted that any complaint by a member of the Station staff would have to be forwarded through the Stationmaster, who would forward it. - Mr Cottey commented it was possible for the men's representatives to bring forward a complaint to the Reconciliation Board through their Union. - Mr Chambers: If a man made a complaint through his Union the Union would approach the department concerned. - Mr Cottey: My instructions are that there have been complaints in regard to the working of the trolley system being dangerous, and that the matter is receiving consideration by the Southern Railway Company. If that is so, is my friend in a position to say, in 24 hours, "Yes" or "No"? - The Deputy Coroner adjourned the Inquiry until next Friday with a view to obtaining evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 19 February 1930
EXETER - Bus Tragedy. Standing Passenger Problem. Exeter Inquest. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at the Inquest held at Exeter Court House, yesterday afternoon, in regard to the death of MRS SARAH GRACE SELLEY, of 2 Parsonage-place, Friar's-hill, Exeter, who fell from a 'bus on the Topsham-road on Sunday afternoon and died after admission to Hospital. - The driver and conductor of the 'bus were exonerated from all blame, but a recommendation was made to the Town Clerk of Exeter to have the camber in Topsham-road attended to, if it was as bad as stated by some of the witnesses. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, sat with a Jury. Mr M. J. McGahey represented the Devon General Omnibus Company, and Mr F. P. Cottey watched the proceedings on behalf of the relatives of the deceased. - HENRY GEORGE SELLEY of 2 Parsonage-place, Friar's-hill, Exeter, gave evidence of identification. He said his wife was 45, and had gone out at about a quarter past three on Sunday to catch a Devon General 'bus. Her health was normal. She had never been subject to fainting attacks. When she went out she was carrying a handbag and a wickerwork basket or bag, containing two small glass dishes, two or three oranges, about three bananas, half pound of butter, and some sweets. To hold the handbag and the wicker basket would not necessarily occupy both her hands. He could hold them with one hand. The glass dishes were empty. - George Thomas Lucy, motor salesman, of 8 Okehampton-street, Exeter, said that just after three o'clock he got into a Devon General 'bus at New North-road, to go to Topsham. When it left the 'bus was not full, but it became full at the Valiant Soldier, at the bottom of South-street. - About eight or nine people were standing in the gangway of the 'bus. - He recalled the deceased standing inside the front entrance of the 'bus with a fairly bulky parcel in one hand and a handbag in the other. Both her hands were engaged. - Slipped Through His Grasp. - Witness was standing nearer than anyone to the entrance. The 'bus proceeded down Holloway-street at about 17 miles an hour. At the bottom of Roberts-road the horn of the 'bus was sounded, and it slowed down a trifle. He then felt the 'bus turn to the left as though to give way to traffic from the opposite direction. Then it turned into the centre of the road again, causing the 'bus to roll. - Most of the passengers lurched slightly to the left, and witness put his hand against the cab, as he was standing by the door. At that moment the deceased spun round and fell off the 'bus. He put out his left hand to catch her, but her coat slipped through his grasp. - He did not think the driver could have seen her fall. He had gone nearly to the top of the hill by Cedars-road before stopping. Witness drew the driver's attention to the matter. - Witness, in reply to the Deputy Coroner, said he considered the 'bus was going at a reasonable rate. - By Mr McGahey: He was sitting by the door at the depot, but got up and gave his seat to a lady. He heard the conductor say there was "some room at the back," and reiterated that remark. The deceased could have gone further back into the 'bus, but did not. He was facing the entrance, and did not see other traffic coming. On deceased's right and left were stanchions to which the deceased could have held had her hands been free. - "We have heard a lot of rumour and talk about it, but was the 'bus going at a reasonable pace?" asked Mr McGahey, and witness replied in the affirmative. - Jury Inspects Bus. - Witness added that there was a very bad camber in the road, and he thought that had affected the movement of the passengers to the left. He was the first to go back to the deceased. The spot where the deceased fell out was about forty yards up the hill. He felt the brakes applied. The driver was enclosed in a cab, and had no opportunity to see what happened. Witness knocked on the glass partition and jumped off while the bus was still in motion. - "You cannot suggest anything more that could have been done?" asked Mr McGahey. - "I cannot," replied witness. "I think that if she could have got hold of anything she could have saved herself. I myself would have fallen had I not put my hand up." - By Mr Cottey: MRS SELLEY had not gone to the back entrance of the bus to enter. She had waited at the front. - The Jury left the Court at this point to inspect the bus. - On the Jury's return, Lennox Endicott, of 3 Week-street, said that he and his wife were walking along Topsham-road, and had nearly arrived at the junction of Cedars[road. He saw a Devon General bus come up from behind him. As it came towards him he saw something fall from the vehicle. He and his wife went back and found deceased lying in the road near the gutter. - By Mr Cottey: He estimated the speed of the bus at 25 miles an hour. - By Mr McGahey: He had not look round to see the bus. Had not the accident occurred he would not have noticed the bus. - Alexander James, a passenger in the bus, said he was sitting two seats from the back of the bus on the off-side. There was more standing room at the back than at the front. He did not see the deceased fall out. He noticed her get in; she had her hands full with a parcel and handbag. He estimated the speed of the bus at 20 to 25 miles per hour. - Asked by the Deputy Coroner if he considered the speed excessive, witness replied, "Not particularly on an open road, but there was a corner ahead." - By Mr Cottey: Six or seven passengers were standing in the centre of the bus. - By the Deputy Coroner: Deceased could have gone farther back into the bus had she been told, but he heard no one tell her to do so. - By Mr McGahey: There was room for another dozen people to stand in the bus had the others moved back. - Manager's Evidence. - Daniel Campbell, General Manager of the Devon General Omnibus Company, produced a scale-plan of the bus in question, which, he said, was one of the Leyland Company's latest types. His Company had 33 of them. - "We have carried between sixty and seventy million passengers in the eight years since I have been General Manager and we have never had an accident like this before," said witness. "There have been isolated cases of people attempting to jump off before buses stop." - He added that the buses were licensed to seat 32 passengers. - "Like the tramways and everybody else, you have the difficulty of people standing during rush hours and in times of stress?" asked Mr McGahey and witness agreed. - Questioned further by Mr McGahey as to regulations on the number of standing passengers allowed, witness replied that there had never been any regulations laid down at Exeter on the matter, but at Torquay there was a local regulation whereby they could carry 25 per cent of the seating capacity number as standing passengers. - "The only alternative would be to let people stand by the roadside and not take them?" - Witness: It is a very difficult problem. We might leave some people stranded. It is a question where tact and judgment should be used. Some passengers might be getting out at the next stop, or a little way farther on. - You do your best to meet the needs of people using the buses? - Witness said there were definite instructions given to all the Company's inspectors to provide, if necessary, a relief bus for extra passengers. They often had to duplicate or even triplicate buses. There was plenty of room in that particular bus when it started. It was only at the Valiant Soldier that it filled up. - Conductor's Instructions. - Mr Cottey: Do I understand that the conductor would have no definite instructions as to the number of passengers the bus should carry? - Witness replied that the understanding was that there could be eight passengers standing. - Mr Cottey: Would the conductor know how many passengers he could carry above the licensed capacity? - What instructions would he have to exceed that number? - Would he use his own judgement? - Witness: Immediately he reached that number it would be his duty to leave passengers behind and telephone at the next section for an extra bus. - Mr McGahey was proceeding to put further questions when the Deputy Coroner said: You are asking questions which may involve the question of an offence. - Witness said that the Company had been in communication with the ministry of Transport on the question. It was a point which had been raised in the High Court. - "That is all the more reason why we should not discuss it now," said the Deputy Coroner. - "I maintain the principle we have adopted," declared witness. - P.C. Brown, of Parracombe, a bus passenger, said he was standing and holding the third of fourth stanchion. The bus lurched a little, and he heard a crash and someone say "She's fallen out." When the bus stopped he went back and rendered assistance to the deceased. He had not thought the speed of the bus excessive. - Fanny Rutter of 20 Rugby-road, St Thomas, another passenger, said the deceased came first to the back entrance of the bus, but the door was not open, so she went round to the front. She thought the speed of the bus was normal. - By Mr Cottey: Her husband was jerked to one side at about the same time as the deceased fell out. - Charles Henry Palmer, of 64 Clifton-street, said he was about to cross the road, and saw a Corporation bus and Devon General bus approach from opposite directions. He saw the Devon General bus go to the side of the road, and as it returned the lady fell out just as the driver was changing gear. - By Mr McGahey: There was nothing out of the ordinary in the manner the bus was travelling. Deceased seemed to pitch on her left side. - By Mr Cottey: At the time the deceased fell the driver of the bus appeared to be changing gears. - Dr Webster, Senior House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, described deceased's injuries. - Conductor And Driver's Stories. - Walter Hole, lodging at 7 Pound-street, Exmouth, the driver of the bus, said he was proceeding in an ordinary manner to the bottom of Holloway-street. He estimated the speed at between 15 and 20 miles per hour. He observed a Corporation bus approaching, and that made witness take his bus more to the left-hand side of the road. After passing, witness drew his bus towards the right and changed gear. After he had "straightened out" he felt the bus give a slight roll, and heard someone knocking at the glass panel at the back of his cabin. He thought someone had observed an intending passenger calling the bus, and, as it was not customary to pull up on a hill for such a purpose, he proceeded to nearly opposite Cedars-road before stopping. He was unaware anyone had fallen out and did not know how many people there were in the bus. - By Mr McGahey: The roll was not very pronounced. He could have pulled up immediately. - By Mr Cottey: The gear changing was perfectly clean, and caused no jolt. - Mr Cottey: So far as you can say, although there was not sufficient roll to throw people off their feet, as has been suggested, neither that nor anything in the changing of the gear would account for it? - Witness: I should not think so. - By Mr McGahey: One of the wheels of the bus might have gone into or over the top of a gully near the pavement at one of the corners of Roberts-road. - William George Trayburn of 144 Egremont-road, Exmouth, the conductor of the bus, said he recollected a woman getting on the 'bus by the Valiant Soldier. There might have been six or seven passengers standing in the 'bus, but he knew he was not carrying more passengers than he was entitled to carry. When the deceased fell witness was about two-thirds up the gangway towards the rear of the 'bus. He had not taken deceased's fare. She was practically the last passenger to enter the 'bus, and he was at the back of it. There had been no danger so far as he could see, of anyone falling off the 'bus. Deceased was well off the steps and inside the 'bus when he saw her. He did not see her fall off. - By Mr McGahey: He told the passengers there was "more room behind than in front," and a passenger passed that on to others. - By Mr Cottey: Had he thought the deceased was standing in a dangerous position he would not have signalled the 'bus to go on. Had the jerk of the 'bus been violent he would have felt it. The doors at the back were shut and bolted from the inside. - The Deputy Coroner: There is no virtue of getting in at the front or back? - Mr McGahey: There are doors front and back of the same type. The back door is an emergency door. - The Deputy Coroner: I know one may argue that everything would have been all right if she had got in at the back door, but that "if" applies to so many things. - Mr Cottey: The back doors were closed and bolted. The front door was not closed at all. - Witness: The back door was an emergency door, but I would open it if there was a crush of passengers. - The Deputy Coroner: You don't open these doors at all while on a journey? - Witness: No, unless I want to get a lot of passengers out quickly. - Boy's Statement. - Leonard William Jarrett, a boy of 55 Roberts-road, said he and some other boys were half-way between Roberts-road and Cedar-road on Sunday afternoon when the 'bus passed, and his impression was that the vehicle was coming fairly fast down Holloway-street. He saw someone fall out of the 'bus after it had passed Roberts-road. - The Deputy Coroner: And the bus was still going what you think was fast? - Witness: Yes. I don't think he (the driver) had changed gear when she fell out. - You saw the 'bus draw in? - I saw it swerve like. - Did she fall out as it swerved? - Yes. - You mean, you saw her fall out? - Yes. - P.C. Dunn said the road surface was good at the spot, but the road itself at the point of the accident gave one the impression that the camber leaned towards the left. - By Mr Cottey: There were bloodstains about 3ft. out from the kerb. - By Mr McGahey: They were about 120ft. from Roberts-road. - The Deputy Coroner, addressing the Jury, said there was no difficulty in arriving at the actual cause of death - fracture of the base of the skull through falling from the 'bus. There was no evidence of excessive speed on the part of the driver of the 'bus, with the exception that the boy thought it was going fast. Against that was the evidence of Mr Lucy, who had been a very clear witness, giving the impression that he knew what he was talking about. Any question of over-crowding if there was over-crowding, they could safely leave to any other authority who cared to take action. - At any rate, as far as the driving was concerned, he did not see that anyone was in any way to blame. The 'bus was doing its normal run in a normal way. - The verdict was as stated. - Mr D. Campbell expressed deep sympathy, on behalf of the 'bus driver, conductor and Company's staff, with the family.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 22 February 1930
EXETER - Station Tragedy. Expert Evidence On Trolley Braking. Exeter Inquest. - More was heard of the condition of the porter's trolley at Queen Street Station, Exeter, when the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, yesterday resumed the Inquest on EDWARD HENRY BARNES, 64, railway porter, of 4 New-buildings, Well-street, Exeter, who died on February 13th from injuries received through being run over by an engine at the Station. - Mr F. Wallace (instructed by Mr Bishop) represented the Southern Railway Company and Mr F. P. Cottey represented the relatives of the deceased. - The Inquest had been adjourned for the purpose of obtaining technical evidence regarding the mechanism of the trolley and as to alleged complaints concerning the trolleys. - David S. McBright, Western Divisional Operating Superintendent, Southern Railway, said that the first time he remembered discussion of the locking system of the trolleys was at the Sectional Railway Council (No. 3) on 11th June 1924. The Council had comprised nine Company representatives and eleven representatives of the employees. The last of 22 items on the agenda had contained a second part - "(b) New type of luggage barrow where level crossings have to be negotiated." - The Company's side promised to look into the question of luggage barrows. He said the question was brought up informally by Mr Gayton, an employee's representative and the true nature of the complaint was that the braking of the barrow down the ramp and over the crossing at Queen Street Station was not satisfactory. Mr Gayton had ceased to be a member of the Council about two years ago. - Tests. - The matter was not, to his knowledge, raised again at the Council meetings. - He had understood that the matter was being looked into, and that tests were being made of certain types of barrows, but what the tests were he could not say. - Witness, in reply to Mr Cottey, said the Sectional Councils were set up to hear grievances of the men. - "Was there any question of the actual working of this particular type of barrow?" asked Mr Cottey. - "Only as far as this particular level crossing is concerned," replied witness. "It was not considered a suitable barrow to go down this sort of ramp, because there is no brake on the back wheels." - Mr Cottey said he appreciated the facilities the Company had given him for examining apparatus, but, to satisfy a rumour, he asked if at that time, or at any time, there had been any discussion of the system of "holding" - it was not actually braking - the barrow. Also whether there had been any question on the "jerking." Witness answered both questions in the negative. He said that, as far as he knew, no complaints had ever been made, either in writing or verbally, in regard to the barrows. - William Albert Sims, draughtsman in the divisional engineer's department, said he went immediately to the barrow after the accident and prevented it from being moved. - Frederick Baker, excess luggage collector, said that from the time the deceased left him until the arrival of the train was about two minutes. The deceased had been pulling the trolley, with his back to the load. - Detective-Sergt. Kemble produced the boots worn by the deceased when he met his death. - Mr Cottey asked leave to call Mr Abbott. - "I have no objection," said the Deputy Coroner, "but I cannot help stating that up to this moment we have no evidence connecting the deceased with the trolley at the time of his death. I don't want to discourage you, but that is so." - Mr Cottey said if that was the view of the Coroner he would not press for the calling of Mr Abbott. He asked for the withdrawal of the Jury that he might make a statement to the Coroner. - "I cannot do that," replied the Deputy Coroner. "We cannot discuss anything in the absence of the Jury." He asked Mr Cottey to put Mr Abbott in the box. - Trolley Criticised. - William George Abbott, A.M.I.M.E., of 39 Clifton-road, Exeter, said he had examined the trolley, and found the front wheels and locking device were in a bad condition. - The bolts which locked the front wheels, and the plate holding the bolts, were worn. In its present condition it was rather dangerous. He considered the truck was of bad design through having a lock device on the front wheels. He also considered that the locking device was wrong, because it did not lock in the right position. The lock came into operation far too soon. He considered the lock should not come into operation until the handle which the man had to pull was in an absolutely vertical position. At present the lock came into operation just over the horizontal position. That could easily have been rectified by adjustment. The lock coming into operation so soon was dangerous. He also considered that, from the way the truck was assembled, it was impossible to stop it suddenly without deflecting the handle, as the rims inside the wheels could not synchronise. - Witness, in reply to Mr Cottey, said he would hardly have credited the amount of wear on the rims. He agreed that if the man was walking fast he might have been bowled over by the action of the bolt. - The Deputy Coroner said that, from the weight of the trolley and its load, he did not think a man could walk fast with it. - Baker, recalled, said that deceased was rather a slow walker. - The Deputy Coroner, recapitulating the evidence given at the previous hearing, said that no one had seen the deceased fall on to the line. Commenting on Baker's evidence, he suggested that two minutes had been ample time for the deceased to take the trolley from the excess luggage office down the platform to where the train came in. The man had been employed by the Company for more than forty years, and for 20 years of that time had been engaged on that particular work, so he should have known exactly how long was required to take the trolley to where it was wanted. "You would not imagine a man doing it all those years was in any hurry. I believe he had been using trucks of this type for some years, and knew all about them. With all respect, I expect he and the other porters there knew more about these trucks than we do or ever shall." It was known that the deceased drew the truck to the train, but, beyond that the front wheels had been turned a little towards the lines, there was no evidence as to what happened. - "We have heard a lot about this particular truck and the trucks of the Company, but, gentlemen, you must not theorise - you must consider the evidence. There was, no doubt, some reason that caused this man to fall on the line, but you have no evidence as to how he came to be there. I don't think you can touch on that matter of the truck in your verdict. How he got there is a mystery, and nobody knows." - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death, there being insufficient evidence to show how the deceased fell upon the line." - Mr Wallace, on behalf of the Company, expressed sympathy with the relatives, observing that after 40 years' service the deceased had been nearing the time for his retirement.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 22 February 1930
EXETER - Cross-Roads Fatality. Exeter Lady Knocked Down By Car. Driver Exonerated. - At the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, Mr H. Linford Brown, Deputy Coroner, with a Jury, conducted an Inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of MISS JANE BARNES BABER, 77, of 10 Clifton-hill, Exeter, who was knocked down by a car driven by Arthur Burridge of 1 Abbey-road, Exeter, on January 10th, and died at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital early yesterday morning. - F. A. le Mesurier, of Sunnycroft, Whimple (cousin), gave evidence of identification, and added that her hearing and sight were very good indeed for her age. - W. E. Perry, 35 Chamberlain-road, Exeter, a motor driver, said he was driving a van along Polsloe-road towards Mount Pleasant-road, about 6.30 p.m. It was wet at the time. A car passed him near the top of Clifton-road, and its driver evidently knew the road, for the car slowed down at the four cross-roads. He did not actually see deceased hit by the car, but saw her lying on the off-side wing. The car when it hit deceased was almost stationary. - Albert Roach of 165 Monk's-road, who was in the van with the previous witness, said the man in the car in front of them sounded his electric hooter. Witness saw deceased cross the road and go into the off-side wheel of the car. - Driver's Story. - Arthur Burridge said that he was driving along Polsloe-road and approaching the cross-roads when a car came out from Park-road and turned towards him. He slowed down for the car, and also sounded his horn at the cross-roads. The next thing he saw was an old lady directly in front of him. Apparently she had waited for the first car to turn the corner and then stepped across the road without looking. Witness could do nothing else but apply his brakes, but the deceased was too close and his car struck her, and she fell across the front wing of the car. - By the Jury: He had no chance to stop the car because he did not see the lady. - Dr David Wilkie, House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said that the deceased was admitted to Hospital suffering from concussion, bruises on the face, fracture of the thigh-bone, and a wound in the left leg. She had remained conscious and had improved to a considerable extent, but later became worse and died yesterday morning. The cause of death was heart failure, accelerated by the effect of the injuries. - The Deputy Coroner said he thought the car driver had approached the cross-roads carefully, but that the deceased probably had waited for the first car to pass and had then tried to cross the road without looking to her left, the view from the on-coming car being blocked by the car which had passed the corner. He thought also that an old lady of 77 would not be as capable of taking care of herself crossing the road as a younger woman. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," exonerating the car driver from blame.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 25 February 1930
EXETER - Crushed By Lift. Inquiry Into Exeter Tragedy. "Accidental Death." - An Inquest on HENRY JAMES PARSONS, Plymouth, who was crushed by a lift at the premises of Messrs. Cornish, outfitters, of Exeter, on Saturday, was conducted yesterday by the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown. A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. Mr M. J. McGahey represented Messrs. Cornish and a firm of lift repairers. Mr C. G. Gates (Inspector of Factories, Exeter District) also watched the case. - Ernest Smith of 17 St George's-avenue, Peverell, Plymouth, representative of the lift firm, said PARSONS lived at 4 Molesworth-road, Stoke, Plymouth, and was a labourer in the employ of the firm, aged 44, and possessed of good hearing and sight. He was accustomed to working on lifts. - George Bailey, of 39 Kingsley-road, Plymouth, a mechanic said he had had experience of repairing lifts throughout the country. On Saturday he was engaged, with deceased, in fitting new wire ropes to a lift at Messrs. Cornish's. Just after nine he had done two ropes and deceased was on the top floor with witness. The lift served six floors, and went right down to the basement. He wound the car down about six inches, went into the pit, removed a prop from it and returned to the top of the building. Witness told deceased to go to the basement floor to see that no one entered the shaft. The lift door at the basement was half shut. He gave deceased good time to go down and went to the control room. Witness started to run the lift down. "The next I heard from below was somebody shouting, "Send the lift up; there is a man underneath," continued witness, who said the lift was in proper working order. There was a rope that would have stopped the lift had deceased pulled it. - Was He Dizzy? - Answering the Deputy Coroner, witness said the only conclusion he could come to was that deceased got dizzy going down the eighty stairs from the top of the building, looked up the shaft to see if the lift was coming down and was overcome. The well was 3ft. to 4ft. deep, and there was no reason for deceased to get into it. Witness had always found deceased a careful and conscientious workman, and a man who did not take unnecessary risks. Had deceased lain down flat he might have escaped being crushed. - Replying to a Juryman, witness said deceased told him early in the morning that he had not slept very well owing to a strange bed. When witness came down after the accident he saw deceased kneeling in the right corner of the well, close to the entrance. - John Watts, of 5 East Grove-road, Exeter, employed by Messrs. Cornish, said he heard something strike the basement door, and later heard deceased twice shout, "Stop the lift." Deceased was in the well, his head was on the floor with the lift on top. - Victor Thomas, also in the employ of Messrs. Cornish, thought deceased was downstairs two or three minutes before he heard the shout. - P.C. Farrant stated that he sent for the St John Ambulance on seeing deceased's injuries. - Dr Wilkey, House Surgeon, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said deceased was dead on admission. He had received an extensive fracture of the right side of the skull. - Bailey, recalled, said that, as far as he knew, the rope beneath the lift was in order. The rope prevented the car over-running by cutting off the current. Deceased knew what the rope was for. - Sympathy was expressed with the deceased's widow and three children.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 25 February 1930
NEWTON ABBOT - Elderly Lady's Death. Sad Newton Story. - A sad story was related at the Inquest at Newton Abbot last night, concerning the death of MRS MARY CAMILLA BROWN, widow, who was 81, and died on Saturday. - MISS JESSIE CAMILLA BROWN, of Southernhay, Newton Abbot, daughter of deceased, said that on Saturday, February 15th she took her mother from the bedroom into the dining-room and sat her in an easy chair in front of the fire. Deceased was unable to move or to speak. Witness wrapped a blanket and a shawl over her dressing gown, and then went into the bedroom, also on the ground floor, to make up the bed. She had only been gone a few minutes when she heard deceased moan, and on entering the dining-room saw that the whole of the clothes below deceased's knees were on fire, also the drapery round the mantelpiece. She pulled off the burning clothes as far as she could and smothered the remainder with the hearth rug. There was no one else in the house at the time. - Dr J. J. Brown told the Coroner he had been attending deceased for some time, and that prior to the accident she was in a very low state and unable to move or to carry on a conversation. He found that she had fairly extensive superficial burns on both legs, extending from the feet to the knees. Death was due to shock. The burns would not have been sufficient to kill a normal person, but for a person in deceased's condition any little thing might upset the balance. - Returning a verdict of "Accidental Death" the Coroner, Mr E. Hutchings, said it was probable that a piece of hot coal spat out from the fire and smouldered the blanket. It was a very sad case, as deceased was unable to move or to call out. He was certain she received every possible attention from her daughter.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 27 February 1930
BIDEFORD - Horseman's Death. Bideford Inquest Story. - Dr F. R. Ellis Pearson (acting Coroner) held an Inquest yesterday concerning the death of SIDNEY JOHN SHUTE, aged 23, of 19 Geneva-place, Bideford, who lost his life as the result of an accident. - ERNEST B. SHUTE, father, said his son, who worked with him on the same farm, appeared in his usual health and spirits when he was preparing to go to the Railway Station with a horse and butt for a load to take to the paint mines. - Replying to Mr T. A. Goaman, solicitor, Bideford, witness said the horse was a perfectly quiet one. Deceased was attached to the animal, and could do anything with it; but it must have been upset by something. - Mrs Mary Nicholls of 10 Chudleigh-terrace, East-the-Water, said she saw deceased going down the road with a horse and butt. A furniture van was opposite her house, and just as the horse passed it the animal swerved to the right and then bolted down the hill. - The Foreman (Mr J. Bromley): Where was deceased when the horse and cart came along? - Witness: On the left side of the front part of the cart. I could not say whether he was on the shaft or the cart itself. - Percival Harris Baker said that he was standing behind the counter of his shop when he heard a woman scream and chase after a little girl who was on the pavement. A moment afterwards a horse and cart dashed past. He saw deceased topple off; he could not say whether he fell or jumped, but he came off on the left-hand side of the cart. The horse and cart went on, and ran into the window of Mr Rivers's shop. Witness went out immediately and found deceased lying on the road on his face, and carried him into their shop. Dr Littlewood happened to pass, and he called him. Deceased did not speak. - Mr W. Harris, of Warmington, Bideford, employer of the deceased, was asked by the Coroner if he was a good, steady boy with a horse and cart. - Witness: One of the best, sir. - Was that the usual horse he drove? - That was the horse he preferred. He took a fancy to it and drove it all the time. Witness went on to say that the horse was six years old and he had never had any trouble with it. - By the Foreman: Deceased had never made any complaint to him about the horse; he had only told witness's son he was very much attached to it. - By Mr Goaman: The animal was a mare, and he had had it two years. He had always instructed his men not to over-feed the horses with corn when they were idle. Deceased was one of the best horsemen he had had on his farm, and took a pride in his work. - Dr M. W. Littlewood (Bideford) said when he saw deceased life was extinct. There was a fracture at the base of the skull and extensive injuries to the right side of the chest. It appeared to witness that a wheel had passed over deceased's chest. Death resulted from the injuries mentioned. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," adding that no blame attached to the employer or anyone else. - Mr Goaman on behalf of Mr Harris, expressed sympathy with the relatives, and the acting Coroner concurred. - Police Inspector Snell was present.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 28 February 1930
EXETER - Leat Fatality. Broken Gate: Is Council Responsible? - At an Inquest held at Exeter yesterday concerning the death of DONALD CHARLES THOMAS, aged two years six months, who was drowned in the leat at Messrs. Shears's mills, Commercial-road, it was stated that the child probably got to the leat through a gate, the bars of which were torn out. The gate was repairable by the City Council. - Mr H. Linford Brown, Deputy Coroner, in returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," said he would write to the Town Clerk regarding the matter.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 1 March 1930
OKEHAMPTON - "In The Mire." Okehampton Inquest: Pathetic Letter. Fatal Worry. - Financial worry was disclosed at the Inquest, at Okehampton, last evening, on JOSEPH MORRIS, insurance agent, 28, of 23 Woolston-road, Plymouth, whose decapitated body was discovered on Thursday on the railway, near the Camp Bridge, Okehampton. The Inquest was conducted by Mr H. C. Brown. - [?]rman Huppler, Staff Sergeant, R.M. Hospital, Plymouth, said deceased served with him at home and abroad for a while. Witness last saw deceased alive three weeks ago, when he appeared to be very worried over financial matters. Witness helped deceased to straighten out his accounts. Before the arrangement was made deceased said: "I feel as if I could put my head on the line." MORRIS was certainly worried for some time and latterly could not sleep. He was invalided from the West Coast, and that had, apparently, affected his health. He was temperamentally unsuited for the job he took. For a time deceased was on the China Station, and immediately prior to taking up the insurance appointment he was out of work. - Samuel Ruby, quarryman, of 5 North-street, Okehampton, spoke to discovering the body lying between the up metals with the head severed. - Reginald M. Barton, foreman fitter at Exmouth Junction, Exeter, deposed to certain engines passing over the line between Wednesday night and Thursday morning being examined and to no trace of blood or hair being found. - P.S. Morrish said deceased's body was wedged between the two rails of the up line, the feet against the inside rail and the shoulders against the outside rail. Deceased was lying face downwards, and the severed head on the ballast. In a pocket were a number of articles, including pawn and loan tickets and a promissory note. - The Coroner read a letter found on the body, addressed to MRS MORRIS. In this deceased said: "I am deeper in the mire than you can imagine. I am waiting for the darkness to end it all ...... Let them give me a pauper burial. I should not do this if I had faith enough in myself to redeem the past; but I haven't. ....I am broken-hearted." In a postscript deceased wrote: "I don't know why I thought of Okehampton as the place to end it, except, perhaps, my military experience there gave me some idea of the railway lines." - The Coroner intimated he had taken the responsibility of not calling a medical man. "I think you will agree with me it would be perfectly futile and a waste of money to tell us the man was dead and what he died of. - The Jury, of which Mr S. Horne was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Death while of Unsound Mind," and gave their fees to the widow.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 3 March 1930
EXETER - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest at Exeter concerning the death of WILLIAM BOLT, 88, retired shoemaker of 18 Summerland-street, Exeter, who died in the Hospital. He was admitted with a fractured thigh and died of pneumonia.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 3 March 1930
CREDITON - Stomach Pains. Lady Doctor And Crediton Woman's Death. Inquest Adjourned. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr G. H. Stephens, opened an Inquest on Saturday afternoon at Crediton, concerning the death of MISS SARAH ANNE WILSON PULLMAN, 52, who died at 8 East-street, Crediton, on Thursday. - William Henry Harris said he had been living with deceased for about 20 years. Deceased had never had a doctor, but had failed in health lately and had complained of pains in the stomach. Witness suggested that she should call in a doctor, but she said she did not think it necessary. Since Wednesday she had kept to her bed, and witness attended her. She had not taken anything special for her ailment, but had had bread and butter and tea since Monday night. She asked for some cakes, saying she fancied them, and he took her some, but she did not eat them. On Thursday, at 12.15, witness left her asleep in bed and when he returned, about 2 o'clock, she was still asleep and snoring. He went up to her again at 3.30 with some lemon juice. He did not like her appearance and called Mrs Deen, who occupied part of the house. The latter told him to send for a doctor. A lady doctor, Mrs Jackson, having examined deceased, told witness that she was dead. - By a Juryman: After deceased took to her bed she became much worse. - The Coroner: Why did you not send for a doctor? - Witness: Because she refused to have one. - Did you not know it was your duty to send for one? - She said she would not see him if I did. Witness added that he had been living on good terms with deceased. - Mrs F. E. Deen said that on Tuesday deceased complained to her of not feeling well, and said, "My God, I do feel ill." Witness replied that she was expecting her doctor to come and see her baby and advised her to see him. Deceased said "No; I shall be better in a day or two." She complained of pains in her stomach. On Thursday morning when witness asked Mr Harris how deceased was he said, "I don't know what to make of her. She is asleep with her eyes open and is snoring." In the afternoon he asked witness to go and see deceased and witness saw that she was dead. - In reply to a Juryman, witness said deceased had taken seidlitz powders, and she saw Mr Harris take one up to her on Wednesday. He also took her some cider, which she said she fancied. - Mrs M. C. N. Jackson, a lady doctor, said deceased was in a dirty condition and had probably been so for days. Mr Harris, when told of the woman's death, said that she had not been well for two weeks, and had had a cold. She had complained of stomach pains, and had vomited on and off. He also said that she was fond of a drop of alcohol and drank whiskey. Witness conducted a post-mortem examination with her husband, Dr L. N. Jackson, and found deceased to be anaemic and that there was inflammation of the stomach and bowels. She had chronic bronchitis and at the time of her death had an acute attack of that ailment. - "My difficulty is," said witness, "in connecting the post-mortem findings with the story told me by Mr Harris." If the patient had not been properly nursed it was quite possible for the lung condition alone to cause death. The stomach pains might have been caused by something she had taken. Witness could not say with certainty what was the cause of death. - The Coroner adjourned the Inquest until Saturday, March 22nd, for an analysis of the contents of the stomach.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 5 March 1930
EAST BUDLEIGH - Hunting Tragedy. Inquest On COL. LOVEBAND At Salterton. Fatal Sowton Fall. - Mr C. N. Tweed, the East Devon Coroner, conducted an Inquest at Budleigh Salterton Cottage Hospital, yesterday, on COL. FRANCIS RICHARD LOVEBAND, late West India Regiment, of Tordown, Budleigh Salterton, who died on Sunday from injuries received while hunting on Saturday morning with the East Devon Foxhounds at Sowton. - Inspector Dart represented the Police. - MISS KATHERINE WINIFRED LOVEBAND, niece of COL. LOVEBAND, said she last saw deceased alive at the Cottage Hospital just before midnight on Sunday. On Friday he had taken her to the Station to go to London, and he was then quite well. COL. LOVEBAND, who was 66, had been accustomed to riding - he could almost do so before he could walk. He had often ridden to hounds and gone out with the East Devon pack about once a week, on Saturdays. - William John Lillycrap, pensioner, 30 Comins-road, Polsloe Park, Exeter, said on Saturday morning he was in a field at Great Moor Farm, Sowton, watching the East Devon Foxhounds. - He saw one horse sprawl across a hedge. Another rider turned and caught the riderless horse and returned to COL. LOVEBAND, who by that time was sitting up beside the hedge. - He saw the rider lying on the horse's back, but did not actually see the fall. - Capt. Sylvain Claude D'Aubuz, of Topsham Barracks, Exeter, said he was hunting with the East Devon Hounds on Saturday in front of deceased. He jumped a bank and went on about 40 yards into the next field, when he heard sounds of a crash behind him. He looked round and saw a horse and rider on the ground. The horse struggled up and left the rider on his knees. Witness caught the horse and came back to help the rider, who was then semi-conscious. Soon he became unconscious and witness assisted him to a bank. About ten minutes later Mr R. Worthington, a medical man, of Exeter, arrived and gave the injured gentleman attention. He was bleeding badly through the nose, but this soon stopped. - A Witness's Theory. - Thomas Samuel Partridge 5 Clinton-terrace, Budleigh Salterton, said on Saturday, COL LOVEBAND was riding a horse he had hired from witness on three occasions. It was not a young horse and had no vices that witness knew of. COL. LOVEBAND used to have one horse only. Then he tried that one and preferred it. He had inspected the scene of the accident, and found it to be a sandy bank which seemed all right on top. There was, however, a big piece of earth and turf dislodged and his theory was that when the horse got to the top and made to spring off, part of the bank gave way under it. - Mr T. C. C. Evans, of Budleigh Salterton, said he was called to the Hospital about 1.15 on Saturday and saw COL. LOVEBAND unconscious with all the symptoms of having a fracture at the base of the skull. Deceased never fully regained consciousness, and died just before midnight on Sunday. The neck was not broken. Witness had ridden the horse used by COL. LOVEBAND on that occasion, and knew it to be a sound and steady animal. - The Coroner said the facts of the case were quite simple. While hunting with the East Devon Hounds the Colonel's horse was seen to sprawl across a boundary hedge between Great Moor Farm and Sowton Barton. The rider was thrown and fractured his skull. He could only return a verdict in accordance with that evidence. He expressed deep sympathy with the relations of the deceased. - Inspector Dart, on behalf of the Police, associated himself with the Coroner's remarks. COL. LOVEBAND had been a special constable for some time, and the Police deeply regretted his death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 5 March 1930
TAVISTOCK - Infant's Death. Coroner And "Extraordinary Stupidity." Tavistock Inquest. - Unusual circumstances were disclosed at the resumed Inquest concerning the death of the infant male child of ELSIE JAMES, 23, of Venn Cottage, Lamerton, near Tavistock. The opening of the Inquest on February 24th followed exhumation of the body from Lamerton churchyard. The evidence was that MRS JAMES found her daughter lying in the garden at noon on February 17th with the newly-born child beside her. MRS JAMES carried mother and child indoors in a blanket, but the child fell, receiving head injuries, and died the same night. The Vicar, in evidence, said he had believed the child to be stillborn. After the fall of the child, MRS JAMES had left it and the mother in the charge of a 15-year-old daughter, and had walked into Tavistock for a doctor. Dr S. Knockolds, of Lifton, said the injuries to the baby's head would have been fatal, even had immediate medical attention been available. - The Coroner, Mr A. K. G. Johnstone, referring to an anonymous postcard received by him that morning as "grossly improper," said that MRS JAMES and her family had only themselves to blame, if anything in the nature of suspicion had been aroused, because of their extraordinary stupidity. - The Jury, returning a verdict that the child died from injuries Accidentally received, expressed the view that MRS JAMES should be severely censured for neglecting to get medical attention more quickly for the mother and child.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 6 March 1930
AXMINSTER - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest held at Axminster yesterday concerning the death of MISS SARAH COLLINS, aged 89, who was found in her room at Kilmington with her clothes on fire. She died at the Axminster Cottage Hospital.

Western Times, Friday 7 March 1930 SEATON AND BEER - Hanging In A Shed. Last Note Of A Seaton Platelayer. "Broken-Hearted Father." - Mr C. N. Tweed, Coroner for East Devon, conducted an Inquest at Seaton yesterday on FREDERICK GEORGE FURSE, aged 46, of The Elms, Court-lane, Seaton, who was found hanging in a shed at his residence on Wednesday. - MARY ANN FURSE, the widow, gave evidence of identification and said her husband had been under the care of a doctor for six weeks. They had breakfast as usual on Wednesday, deceased having passed his best night for six weeks. Just before 11 o'clock witness went to the shed in the backyard, with the intention of calling deceased to have some cocoa. The door of the shed was closed and on opening it she perceived that something was wrong and called a neighbour. The latter summoned some men working nearby. Deceased had never threatened to commit suicide, but witness had been warned by the doctor not to leave him alone. He was a platelayer employed on the Seaton branch of the Southern Railway. Previous to six weeks ago he was "quite all right." - By the Coroner: There was no insanity in the family. When deceased went into the backyard he said he was going to saw some sticks. - John Francis Thrupp, coach-builder, deposed to being called to the shed and finding deceased hanging from a batten placed across a corner of the shed. - Police evidence showed that deceased was carrying a scrap of paper in his pocket, bearing the words: "Good-bye to you all. I hope you will not be broken-hearted." On the other side were the words, "May the God protect you - from a broken-hearted father." An old razor and a pocket knife were also found on the deceased. - Dr A. H. Smart, of Seaton, said he found deceased dead on his arrival, with a broken neck. He had been under his care since January 15th, suffering from melancholia. On January 17th he suffered a lapse of memory and was found in a shed on the Seaton football ground. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Death during Temporary Insanity, deceased having committed Suicide by Hanging."

Western Times, Friday 7 March 1930 BRAUNTON - Sudden Death At Braunton. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned by Dr Ellis Pearson; Acting Coroner for North Devon, at an Inquest at Knowle, Braunton, on Wednesday on MRS GRACE DOWN CHAPPLE, a dressmaker, aged 57, who died suddenly in her home on Monday. Medical evidence was that death was due to cardiac syncope.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 11 March 1930
OKEHAMPTON - "My Poor Head." Okehampton Resident's Pathetic Note. Inquest Story. - The Okehampton District Coroner, Mr H. C. Brown, conducted an Inquest yesterday at the Poor-law Institution, Okehampton, concerning the death of GEORGE PEDRICK, whose body was found in a pond at Meldon on Sunday. Deceased, who had been missing from his lodgings at Castleford, Okehampton, for about a month, was a retired bookseller, aged 72. - After he left his lodgings on February 3rd a letter was found on his dressing table which read:- "I have made a fearful blunder to cause you trouble, etc. Look in the drawer (top). Meldon Quarry pit. I must have been mad to retire on £1,000. About £900 left. My poor head. - G.P." - Dr H. Holcombe said that the only cause of death was by drowning. - Eva Dorothy Pope, of Castle Cottages, Okehampton, said that she had been in service at Castleford, where deceased was a lodger. On February 3rd he left the house about three o'clock, being in the habit of going for walks at that time. He seemed very strange as he went out and was talking to himself - a thing he did not usually do. He was very reserved in the house. Later she had occasion to go to his room, and on the dressing table, kept down by his watch, was the note. - P.S. Morrish said that, acting on the contents of the letter, he went to the quarry, but found nothing that night. The following morning the search was continued and at a dangerous spot near the pond they found a mackintosh, cap and stick. Grappling irons were used later, but without result. The pond was watched until Sunday, when the body was found floating in the water. The articles produced were identified by Miss Pope as belonging to deceased. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 12 March 1930
NEWTON ABBOT - Road Accident. Coroner And Newton Lady's Death. Inquest Story. - "It would appear that this unfortunate lady was placed in a position that many of us are placed in when we cross the road," observed Mr E. Hutchings, District Coroner, at Newton Abbot Inquest last evening. "She suddenly saw something coming up the side of the road she was making for, and then stopped and almost immediately saw something coming at her from the other direction. A fraction of a second's hesitation might mean serious injury or death. Apparently she thought of retreating, and then lost her head and before she knew where she was she was knocked down. I don't know what can be done to lessen the number of these unfortunate street accidents. We cannot have islands all over the place." - The Inquest concerned the death of MRS EMILY SAMPSON, of Summerland-street, who was 59, and died as a result of injuries received in an accident on December 17th last. - Dr W. Patey said deceased sustained a fractured ankle, but progressed quite satisfactorily for about six weeks, when she developed clotting of the blood in both legs. The clot carried to the brain and she died on Monday. - The evidence of several eye-witnesses of the accident was that deceased was crossing the road near the Town Tower at Newton Abbot. She hesitated when she saw a motor car coming along Courtenay-street, and then stepped back into a lorry which was turning from Bank-street into Courtenay-street. The front off wheel of the lorry went over her foot and threw her to the ground. The lorry was being driven quite slowly, and pulled up within a few feet. - Frederick Cross, hawker, who was called as a witness, said he did not see the lady until she fell to the ground. - The Coroner: But two days after the accident you made a statement to the Police in which you said you saw her walking in an excited manner across the road, at a very fast pace, and that no blame could be attached to the lorry driver. Your memory isn't very good, is it? - Witness: No, sir; my memory is not very good. - The Coroner: I hope you won't witness any more accidents. - Witness: I hope not. - The Coroner: But if you do try and say what you saw and not what you thought you saw. - The driver of the lorry, Reginald Down, of Newton Abbot, said that as he turned the corner he saw deceased in the centre of the road by the white line. She hesitated because of a car coming up the street in the opposite direction, and then stepped back into the lorry. He pulled up immediately and could not possibly have done anything more. When the lorry stopped it was six inches beyond the deceased's foot. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and the driver of the lorry was exonerated from blame.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 15 March 1930
EXETER - Winkleigh Woman's Death: Inquest Verdict. Error Of Judgment? - The Deputy Exeter Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, conducted an Inquiry at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday afternoon, relative to the death of CLARA BAKER, 49, married, 5 Park-place, Winkleigh, who died in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on Wednesday night. She was one of five persons injured in a motoring accident at Cowley Bridge, Exeter, a fortnight since. A Jury was empanelled, and returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," expressing the view that the car driver (a stepson of the deceased) committed an error of judgment. - Mr S. Ernest Cross (Messrs. Crosse and Crosse, Exeter), represented the driver of the lorry involved in the accident (Francis Hugh Redwood, Whitnage, Uplowman, Tiverton), and Mr J. C. M. Dyke (Exeter) appeared on behalf of members of the deceased's family. - HERBERT BAKER, sawyer, of Cooper's-hill, Winkleigh, stepson, gave evidence of identification, and stated he was driving his father's car over Cowley Bridge towards Exeter on March 1st. He had his father, stepmother, wife, brother and a friend (Mr Southcombe) as passengers. His speed at the time was about 20 miles per hour. It was necessary to get off the bridge before one could obtain a good view of the Exeter road on the right-hand side. He saw a lorry 20 yards ahead coming towards him. Witness gained the impression the lorry driver was going towards Crediton and the lorry was travelling at a "fair speed." There was an impact between the two vehicles. Witness had a conversation with the lorry driver, who said: "I was going about eight, wasn't I?" To which witness replied: "You were going faster than that." - Going To Football Match. - By Mr Dyke: The lorry was in the middle of the road when witness first saw it. He did not feel there was any risk in proceeding as he did. - By Mr Crosse: If he thought the lorry was going towards Stoke Canon he could have pulled up. He did not think 20 miles an hour too fast. - BEATRICE BAKER, wife of the first witness, said there were two bumps when the car was struck. - By Mr Dyke: The car was knocked backwards some distance after the impact. - The Deputy Coroner: Did you want to be in Exeter at any particular time? - Witness: No. - Mr Dyke: Was he hurrying to get anywhere? - No, he was not. - You had no appointment at any particular place? - No. - Is it right he was merely coming into Exeter to spend the afternoon? - Yes. - A party of you? - Yes. - Mr Crosse: Any football match to be attended? - They were going to see the football. - Therefore they wanted to get in by a certain time? - But they were not in any hurry. - Where does he park? - In the parking ground. - The accident was at 2.30. Do you know the time of the football match? - Quarter to three. - Do you say he was driving carefully? - Very careful. - Arthur Southcombe, of Exeter-road, Winkleigh, another passenger in the car, thought the speed of the latter was reasonable. After the impact the car finished upon the left-hand side of the road (near the R.A.C. telephone-box). - By Mr Crosse: He thought the driver took an unnecessary risk. - Winifred Sarah Bright, of Exeter, deposed to standing near the R.A.C. box on the Cowley-road and witnessing the accident. The car came across the front of the lorry and struck the centre of the car. - By Mr Dyke: The lorry pushed the car in the direction of Tiverton and both vehicles came to a standstill by the kerbing near the R.A.C. telephone box. - Lorry Driver's Evidence. - Harry Stephens, postman, of Newton St Cyres, spoke to rendering assistance to the injured people. - P.C. Parrish gave details of road measurements, which showed that the road at the point of impact was 52 ft. wide and a view of the road towards Exeter from the bridge was extended to about 70 or 80 yards. - Francis Hugh Redwood, the lorry driver, said he approached Cowley Bridge at between eight and ten miles an hour. He did not see the car until his lorry was crossing the Crediton road. - The car shot over the bridge and went in front of the lorry. - He did not sound his hooter because both the Crediton and Tiverton roads were, apparently, clear. - By Mr Dyke: The car hit the steering wheel out of witness's hand. He could not have been going more than eight or ten miles an hour, because he had not much steam. - By Mr Crosse: There were marks on the front of the lorry to show the car went across the front of the lorry. - Samuel Kerslake, Huntsham, fireman on the lorry, said: The car came towards the lorry at a terrific pace. - The lorry was going slower than usual on this particular occasion. - By Mr Dyke: The speed limit of the lorry was 12 miles per hour. - Dr Webster, House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, attributed death to pulmonary embolism - a clot of blood blocking one of the main arteries. - The Deputy Coroner expressed the view that BAKER perhaps committed an error of judgment, and that there was not the slightest blame attaching to the driver of the lorry. - 

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 15 March 1930
TIVERTON - "Walked Into Car." Tiverton Inquest Story. - At Tiverton Hospital last night Dr Perry (Deputy Coroner) and a Jury Inquired into the death of MARY ANN ELLIS, 75, following an accident in Gold-street, Tiverton, on February 28th. - Henry Thomas Corrigan, electrician, Tiverton, said he was driving his car up Gold-street and saw deceased step off the pavement, walk about a third across the road, and stand. He was sounding his horn at the time, and turned to the right to pass her, when she stepped forward and the next he saw was the woman falling. The car was at that moment almost stationary and he felt a jar. - Frederick Taylor, Leat-street, said deceased resumed walking across the road when the car was three feet away; she really walked into the wing. When he went to pick her up one of the front tyres held her left foot, but did not go over it. Deceased did not appear to be hurt and preferred to go home rather than see a doctor. The car was only just moving at the time. - P.C. Squire, who observed the accident from the Palmerston corner, corroborated. After the accident deceased did not complain of her left foot, but said her right foot felt rather stiff. - Dr Nicholson said deceased fractured the neck of the left femur, and suffered from shock when admitted to Hospital an hour after the accident. There were no external injuries or bruising. She developed congestion of the lungs, and then pneumonia, which was the cause of death. This type of fracture might be produced by a twisting action or a fall. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and no blame was attached to the driver of the car.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 18 March 1930
TIVERTON - Misadventure. Hospital Surgeon's Tragic Death At Tiverton. Inquest Story. - "Death from Misadventure through taking an overdose of cocaine hydrochloride" was the verdict returned last night at an Inquest held by Dr Perry (Deputy Coroner) at Tiverton concerning the death of DR PIERRE DARIUS MOTTET, 21 years, House Surgeon at the Tiverton Hospital, who died in the early hours of Sunday morning. Mr W. J. Paynter was the Foreman of the Jury. - DR LOUIS HENRI MOTTET, House Surgeon of the University College Hospital, London, said his brother had always enjoyed good health. - Claude Henry Deeks, Secretary of Tiverton Hospital, said that when he saw deceased on Saturday night he made arrangements to go for a walk on Sunday. He was cheerful and bright. - Dorothy Mary Climas, night nurse at the Hospital, said that at 6.30 a.m. on Sunday she was surprised to meet deceased on the landing. He asked for a quarter of morphia. Witness replied that she could not supply him with it, and asked why he wanted it. Deceased replied that he had taken some cocaine hydrochloride before going to bed, and on waking at five o'clock had taken some more - too much. "I feel so ill," he added. "I think I am going to die." She put him to bed and called the Matron, meanwhile getting some strong coffee and a hot bag. - Dr G. Lowe said that on arrival within ten minutes of being summoned he found deceased conscious. His pupils were widely-dilated, but his hands and face were of normal colour. He was somewhat confused and dazed in his manner. His pulse was of good volume and tension and the rate was about 100. Deceased sat up in bed and said he had taken an overdose of cocaine hydrochloride by mistake. He also said that he had been unable to sleep and wanted something to help to induce rest. Witness found an elastic band round deceased's neck - a band similar to that which would be worn by a Catholic. Witness left the bedroom to prepare treatment and on returning found deceased unconscious. The band had been removed to a table. Witness tried to rouse him, but without effect. He gave him an emetic, which he retained. The previous signs of clenching of the teeth became marked and witness gave him the necessary stimulant and began to wash out his stomach. He succeeded in doing this twice before deceased had two convulsions. During the second he died, about 8.5 a.m. - In reply to questions, witness said that deceased took equivalent to 15 grains of cocaine hydrochloride. Two-thirds of a grain had proved fatal, but there was a case on record of a patient recovering after taking 43 grains. There was no proof whether deceased drank the drug or injected it, although he gave witness to understand that he swallowed it. Witness added that a bottle of cocaine hydrochloride, just over half full, was found in the wardrobe in DR MOTTET'S bedroom. It was quite irregular for the House Surgeon to keep any drugs in his bedroom, as all drugs were usually locked away in the dispensary and he (DR MOTTET) was in charge of the keys. - Deceased's brother asked if chloral hydrate was not the usual draught given to a patient suffering from sleeplessness. - Dr Lowe: Yes; but not cocaine hydrochloride. Witness added that a post-mortem examination showed that death was due to asphyxia, caused by an overdose of the draught. - Witness, asked whether deceased might have thought that morphia would counteract the cocaine hydrochloride, said that he might have had that idea when he asked the night nurse for it. - Mr Deeks, on behalf of the Hospital Committee and staff, extended sympathy to the relatives of deceased, and the Coroner and Jury associated themselves with the sentiment.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 19 March 1930
EXETER - Fatal Burns And A Fall. Stories Related At Exeter Inquests. - An accident, which resulted fatally, was described at the Inquest conducted at Exeter last night by Mr H. Linford Brown, Deputy Coroner, concerning the death of MRS LEA BLANCHE ROBINSON, of 29a Exe-street, Exeter. - JOHN ROBINSON, the husband, said that his wife was aged 42. He went to work at about 7.15 a.m. on the previous day, and she was then in her usual health. Later he heard that she had had an accident, and had been taken to the Hospital. He went there several times. His wife had been conscious, but had said nothing about the accident. - Dr F. E. Webster, Senior House Surgeon at the Hospital, said that the deceased was admitted about midday on Monday suffering from extensive burns, which had the appearance of having gone upwards. Death was caused by shock, following burns. - WINNIE ROBINSON, a young daughter of deceased, was not sworn, but in a statement she said that about 11.30 a.m. the previous day she was scrubbing the kitchen floor and her mother was sitting near the fire. When she got up the bottom of her apron caught fire. She ran through the kitchen and out into the yard. - Mrs Yandall of 28a Exe-street, said that she was in the wash-house, which she also used, when deceased ran out of the kitchen with her clothes on fire. She ran about the yard, and afterwards returned to the wash-house, her clothes still being alight. Witness pulled off deceased's apron and ran into the kitchen, where deceased had had her (witness's) little child. On returning to the wash-house she found deceased had collapsed. Her clothes were burned off. - John William Sculpher, of 24 Exe-street, said that, hearing screams, he went to the house and found deceased in a collapsed condition. He tried to smother the fire with some cocoanut matting. Deceased remained conscious until the arrival of the ambulance. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 19 March 1930
EXETER - Death Follows Fall. - A fall downstairs about a fortnight ago led to the death at the Exeter Hospital, on Sunday, of MRS MARY ELIZABETH MARTIN of 5 Courtenay-road, ST Thomas, Exeter. At the Inquest held last night by Mr H. Linford Brown, THOMAS STANLEY MARTIN (son) said that his mother was 64 and the widow of THOMAS JAMES MARTIN. About 9.30 on the morning of March 1st witness heard a noise on the stairs, and on going to the landing saw his mother lying at the bottom. - Deceased said, "Oh, my leg; oh, my leg." She was not subject to giddiness, so far as he knew. He got her to bed and fetched the doctor, who told him she had fractured her thigh. She was subsequently removed to the Hospital. - Dr Webster said that deceased had a fracture of the upper end of the left femur. Her condition was never satisfactory. The cause of death was pneumonia, induced by having to lie in bed as the result of the fracture. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 22 March 1930
EAST BUDLEIGH - Pathetic Case. Visitor's Tragic Death At Salterton. Open Verdict. - "This is a very pathetic case, not altogether without difficulty," said the East Devon Coroner, Mr C. N. Tweed, at the conclusion of an Inquest at Budleigh Salterton on CHARLES EDWARD RIVERS, 35, independent, of 5 Clinton-terrace, whose body was found at the foot of a cliff 150 ft. high on Thursday morning. Important evidence was given by deceased's young lady friend, previously thought to be his fiancée, with whom he was sitting just before going over the edge to his death. An Open Verdict was returned. - Richard William Burney Crawford Clarke, 17 Swan-hill, Shrewsbury, solicitor, said deceased was an old friend, and he identified the body as that of MR LITT, who was aged 35. Deceased had no occupation, but of late years he had been giving assistance at various riding establishments for something to do. Witness had not seen him for about a year, and although he had heard from him since, there was nothing in the letter to indicate trouble. There were no financial difficulties. - Marjorie Wood, single, daughter of Archibald Wood, of Clifford-street, London, said she first met deceased at Angmering-on-Sea last May or June. Witness was a riding mistress at a school at which deceased helped for a time. - The Coroner: Did you arrange with him to come to Budleigh? - Witness: Yes, I did. - Was that last weekend? - Yes, he came to see me last Saturday. He suggested that I might have some riding down here. - Had you previously had some correspondence? - Yes. - Have you any objection to saying what the tenor of those letters was? - Well, I thought he was fond of me, and thought he would like to have me down here. - Did you return his affection at all? - Yes, I was very fond of him indeed. - Were you engaged? - No. - Did you think there was any prospect of an engagement? - He said there would not be, but he did not want to break off the friendship. - Extracts From Letters. - Was there a prospect of your becoming employed at Budleigh? - Yes, he thought I might be able to give some help. - Did you, in consequence of the arrangement, come to Budleigh last Wednesday? - Yes. - The deceased met you on the Station? - Yes, but he was most peculiar in his manner, and did not say anything. - Had his manner appreciably altered since you last saw him at Angmering? - Yes. He seemed so depressed. - Did it strike you that something had happened between the time that he left Angmering and the time you met him at Budleigh? - Yes, I could not think what. - Letters were handed to the Coroner, who asked Miss Wood if she had written one containing the passage: For God's sake don't torture me like you do sometimes. - Miss Wood: That was when he wrote telling me he loved me, but saying he was no good. He told me he loved me more than anything else in the world. - The Coroner: What did you say when he said, "I am no good?" Witness: I said I can't understand what you mean, because you seem so good. - Did you desire personally to be engaged to him? - Yes. - Although he confessed he was very fond of you, he gave no reason for not being engaged? - Not then. - Try to think. Have you no idea? - Last Saturday he told me he drank too much. - And was that the reason why he said he could not marry you? - Yes. - Miss Wood said that after meeting her at the Station, MR LITT took her to the house where she was staying and said "Good night." - On Thursday morning he came for her about 10 o'clock. - "And just looked at me. He seemed strange then. I suggested that we should go to a cafe and there talk over things, meaning the post at the riding school. He just said 'Yes.' We went to the cafe, but they did not open until 10.30, so he said 'Let us go up this way,' the road leading up to the cliffs. On the way up I asked him whose horses those were going round, but he did not answer me. - "He Just Looked At Me." - At the top we sat down and I said 'I think I will go to see my father to tell him I am giving it a trial,' but he did not speak. I asked him: 'Do you think there will be any chance of taking the children out here.' He did not answer me. I never heard him speak again. He just looked at me, that is all. We had been sitting down about 10 minutes when he jumped up, ran across the path, got hold of the wire, and jumped over. - The Coroner: Are you quite sure he did not put one foot over first, and the earth gave way? - That might have been. I think he must have put one leg over because I ran over to stop him. He had a mackintosh on, so I do not think he could have jumped over. - Do you wish to withdraw your statement that he jumped over? - Yes. I will say he ran towards the wire fence, took hold of the wire and put one leg over. - Did you see any earth that had got dislodged? - There might have been. - Continuing, Miss Wood said she "ran after him to try to prevent him falling over. I think I got hold of his arm." - The Coroner: On which side of the wire fence was that? - Witness: I think he was over then. - Did you say anything to him? - Yes, I called out his name. - Did he say anything? - No. - Did he try to break away from you? Was his impulse to break away, or could he not help himself? - I think he could not help falling over. - Didn't you think it very extraordinary that he was so silent? - Yes, I did. - Did you suspect any reason for his peculiar manner? - Well, the only thing I could think was that perhaps he thought there was not much in the post and was going to say so. - What did you mean by this telegram on March 4th, which was sent to him: - "Letter this morning from Angmering to clear out and not return. Just leaving for Angmering. Collect clothes. Is it possible to see you. - Wood." - That was because he said to me that if I was leaving there he wished to come up and see me. - "Getting Too Fond Of Me." - He had written you to that effect? - Yes. And on March 18th you wired him: "Arrive tomorrow on the 8.45 Budleigh Salterton? - Yes. - What did you mean when you wrote to him: - "I feel I am made of poor stuff. I can face any physical pain or hurt, but this seems to have got me down." - Because he had decided to leave Angmering suddenly. - You did not want him to? - We never discussed it and I was very upset when he did leave. - You had been staying in the same house? - Yes. - Then you go on to say, "Please don't think I am a cad behaving like this." What did you mean by that? - Well, I think I must have meant writing to him and worrying him when he was upset at having to go. - Why did he go? - He did not think he was getting on, and was getting rather slack. I think he thought he was getting too fond of me, and did not want to show it. - Even that I don't quite reconcile with this statement in your letter - It is rather strong language. - To what did you attribute his silence on the previous evening? - I could only think that perhaps he had had too much to drink. There was nothing else that could account for his peculiar manner, but he was practically the same in the morning. - Was there anything more between you than mere friendship? - Nothing. - Two of deceased's letters to the girl were produced and the Coroner commented: "It seems that not only were you not happy, but this letter indicates that he was also not happy because of your attitude towards him. He says: - "I am waiting to hear from you and can only hope you are not going to be too hard. I think I feel this more than I have felt anything." - There must have been something on your part, either what you had done or said, to attract a remark like that. - Witness: No, he had left and I thought he would write again, and then I had that letter from him. He had had no letter from me. - Miss Wood And "Torture." - Another extract read from one of Miss Wood's letters was: "You have all my love for ever, but please tell me what to do. I cannot go on like this for ever." - In reply to further questions by Inspector Dart and Mr Clarke, Miss Wood said she had seen deceased drunk on frequent occasions. - The Inspector asked: When you were writing to him why did you always put in the sentence about torturing you? - Miss Wood replied: Because he wrote letters saying he was terribly lonely and had no one in the world, and wished he could see me again at Angmering. But he did not want it to be anything more than friendship. - Answering further questions, witness said no job had been definitely arranged for her. She had come down "on spec" to give it a month's trial. She was not comfortable in her situation at Angmering, and MR LITT suggested her coming to Budleigh. MR LITT was an exceptionally reserved and quiet man. - Florence Hillman, single, of 28 Otter-view, Budleigh Salterton, said she was taking a walk over the cliffs on Thursday morning when she saw a man and woman with a dog on the seat. Just as she had passed them witness went a little nearer the cliff edge to see the sea when she heard the rustle of a mackintosh, and, looking back, saw the man with one leg over the wire fence and holding down the wire to lift over the other. She thought for a moment he had see a rabbit. The woman was just then holding out her hands to catch him, but he had gone. Witness went back and she said, "What can I do? Oh! what can I do?" Before witness could answer she was gone down the cliff. - By Inspector Dart: Miss Wood made one terrified shout. - Answering Mr Clarke, witness said the man did not jump. He slithered over the cliff feet first and his mackintosh, which had caught, sent up a cloud of dust. - Death Instantaneous. - Dr Henry Frederick Semple said he was called about 10.30 to see deceased. He was dead, the pelvis and spine being broken. Death would have been instantaneous. - Mrs Anne Partridge, 5 Clinton-terrace, at whose house deceased had been staying for two months, said he had never given her any reason to suppose he was unhappy. He was a very quiet and reserved man. She had never seen him the worse for liquor or heard him threaten to commit suicide. Over the weekend he had been in Angmering, and on coming back was unusually depressed. Deceased seemed a sane, well-balanced man who thought over everything even before speaking. - By Inspector Dart: Nothing had been said to her or her husband about Miss Wood having a job at their riding school. When Miss Wood came to the house she expected witness to know all about her. - John Drew Higgins, of Angmering Court, Angmering-on-Sea, said he last saw deceased alive last Monday morning at Littlehampton Station. He was a very deliberate person and very reticent. - By Inspector Dart: Witness had the impression that deceased imagined troubles. - VIOLET STELLA GERTRUDE LITT, only sister of the deceased, said she last saw her brother alive in November or December of last year in London. He was then perfectly normal, and she knew of no trouble on his mind. Her brother had mentioned Miss Wood, but she had no idea they were intimate. Having known her brother all her life, she had never seen him the least bit worse for drink. He drank as a normal man, but was remarkably strong-headed. - P.C. Turner said he received the news at 10.20. The height of the cliff as shown on the ordnance survey map was 150 ft. The seat was 14 ft. from the edge, and the height of the fence 3 ft. There was no evidence of earth having become dislodged. - The Coroner said what led up to the death was not very simple. Deceased was a gentleman of independent means and at Angmering met Miss Wood, with whom he became friendly, while Miss Wood admitted she was very much in love with MR LITT. He thought the correspondence bore out her story that while he wished the friendship to continue, he did not wish to become engaged. On the other hand Miss Wood was very anxious that they should come to an understanding. It was quite clear that something had happened which caused deceased considerable depression. He (the Coroner) was not prepared to rule out suicide, or to find MR LITT did not intend to commit suicide and that it was entirely an accident. The circumstances were such that he could only return an Open Verdict.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 24 March 1930
GOSPORT, HAMPSHIRE - Exeter Funeral. Military Honours For MR F. W. ROACH, R.A.F. Fatal Football. - The funeral took place yesterday with military honours at the Higher Cemetery, Exeter, of MR FRED WILLIAM ROACH, of the Royal Air Force, son of MRS M. A. ROACH, of Simla, Grosvenor-place, Blackboy-road, Exeter. - MR ROACH , who was only 28, died at Gosport on Sunday following an accident the previous Wednesday in a football match, when he was playing for the Air Force against H.M.S. Excellent. He leaves a widow and infant daughter. A native of Exeter, he was educated at St James's Boys' School. The service was conducted by the Rector of St James's (the Rev. F. Lowman). The coffin was borne on a gun carriage supplied by the 3rd Field Brigade, R.A., and draped with a Union Jack. A firing party and a bugler from the Depot Devonshire Regiment were also in attendance. - The mourners were the widow, Mrs Roach (mother), Mr Bert Roach (brother), Mrs P. Caple, Mrs H. Bealey, Mrs L. Cushley, Mrs Watkins and Mrs Tozer (sisters), Mr P. Caple, Mrs W. Ballman, Mr G. Caple, Miss P. Bealey, Mr G. and Mr W. Bealey (nephews and nieces). Messrs. W. Bealey, C. Watkins, and F. Tozer (brothers-in-law), Mr R. Ballman, Mr and Mrs Commins (aunt and uncle). Deceased's brother, Harry, was unable to be present, being in Canada. - Inquest Verdict. - At the Inquest a verdict of Accidental Death was returned. It was stated that MR ROACH, who was in goal, was charged by the opposing centre-forward. He was knocked out, and subsequently left the field, being taken to Hospital. A medical witness said that deceased was suffering from a ruptured spleen, and a successful operation was performed. Intestinal paralysis, however, developed later, and was the cause of death. Eye-witnesses stated that the charge was perfectly fair.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 24 March 1930
CREDITON - "Natural Causes." Inquest On Crediton Woman Concluded. - An Inquest was concluded by the Deputy District Coroner, Mr G. H. Stephens, on Saturday, at Crediton, on SARAH ANNE WILSON PULLMAN, 52, single, of 8 East-street, Crediton, who died on February 27th and a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned. - The Inquest had been adjourned from March 1st for an analysis of the contents of deceased's stomach, the doctor (Mrs Jackson) at that time being unable to certify the cause of death. - At the opening of the Inquest it was stated by William Henry Harris, with whom deceased lived, that PULLMAN persistently refused to see a doctor although she had complained of pains in her stomach, and was found to have inflammation of the stomach and bowels and chronic bronchitis at the time of death. - The Deputy Coroner reported on Saturday that an analysis of the stomach contents revealed no trace of poison. There were unfortunate circumstances connected with the case, but he did not think Harris could be blamed. The woman had refused to have a doctor, and evidence to that effect was supported by another witness - Mrs Deen. 

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 25 March 1930
OTTERY ST MARY. - Fall From Cycle. Ottery Man's Death In Hospital. Inquest Adjourned. - An Inquest was opened at Ottery St Mary yesterday by Mr C. N. Tweed, East Devon Coroner, concerning the death of ALFRED CHURCHILL, 73, plumber, of Tip-hill, which occurred in the local Cottage Hospital on Friday. Deceased fell from his bicycle in Mill-street, Honiton, when returning from his work, and was severely injured. - Mr W. F. Thomas (Ottery) appeared on behalf of deceased's employers, Messrs. Shute, of Honiton. - EDITH MAUD OWEN of 6 Tip-hill, identified the body as that of her father. She last saw him alive on Sunday, the 16th, when he went to bed in apparently his normal good health. He left for work the next morning before witness was up, and in the evening she was told by P.C. Milton that her father had met with an accident and was in the Cottage Hospital. He was unconscious when she saw him and gave no explanation. All his life he had been a cyclist, and although he had fallen off many times he had never hurt himself. He had complained of children getting in his way in Honiton streets. Answering Mr Thomas, witness said deceased had never suffered from giddiness nor had had a stroke. - Dr Ralph Robert Traill, of Ottery, said he saw deceased about 7.30 on the Monday. He was nearly unconscious, and there was a large bruise on the left side of the head. The base of the skull was fractured and blood was issuing from the ears. Later in the week a slight improvement took place, and deceased tried to speak, but could not, as the fracture had damaged the vocal and throat nerves. This in turn had affected the respiratory organs, so that deceased could neither speak nor swallow. Pneumonia developed and was the cause of death. Deceased was a mildly plethoric subject, but had never complained of symptoms that would cause a stroke. - Mrs Mildred Connett, of Mill-street, Honiton, said that when on her way to purchase some milk she saw a man lying in the road on his left side, with his legs astride a bicycle. He was making a gurgling noise and witness fetched her father, who loosened the man's collar, and she informed the Police. The back wheel of the bicycle was slightly buckled. - Dennis Poulton, a lad, of 6 King's-terrace, Honiton, spoke to seeing a cyclist going down the street. Near the brewery he fell off. - P.C. Clymo (Honiton) said that he found the back wheel of the bicycle considerably damaged and one spoke broken. Both brakes appeared to have been jammed on suddenly, but witness thought they were in good order. - Mr Thomas intimated that his clients would like to know whether deceased fell as a result of a fit or otherwise. - The Coroner said there was a possibility of this point being settled by a post-mortem examination and he adjourned the Inquiry until tomorrow.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 25 March 1930
EXETER - Fractured Femur. Christow Woman's Death. - The Deputy Exeter Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, conducted an Inquest at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, on MRS ELIZABETH ANNE PROWSE, 80, of Homedale, Christow, who died in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital as a result of an accident in her home on March 13th. CHARLES PROWSE, the Council Houses, Christow, son, said deceased enjoyed fairly good health. On March 13th she told him she thought she had broken her leg getting out of bed. A nurse who was called in advised deceased being seen by a doctor, who ordered her removal to the Hospital. - Dr F. Webster, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased was suffering from a fracture of the right femur, and death was due to exhaustion, following the fracture. - The Deputy Coroner returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 26 March 1930
EXETER - Exeter Tragedy. Ice Factory Manager Dead In The Works. - The Deputy Exeter Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, conducted an Inquiry at the Court House, Exeter, last evening into the circumstances surrounding the death of GEORGE WILLIAM COSTER, aged about 55, who was manager of the South Devon Ice and Cold Storage Company Ltd., Bonhay-road, Exeter, and who was found dead on the floor of the engine-room at the factory yesterday morning. - Edward John Maunder, 49 Exe-street, Exeter, assistant engineer at the factory, said deceased had been manager for 27 years. During the last two or three weeks he appeared to have been worried. About 7.15 yesterday morning witness fetched some milk for deceased and returned at 7.30. Later witness went to the engine-room, and saw deceased lying on the floor with an overcoat over his head, which was resting on a pillow. There was a piece of gas tubing, one end connected with a gas main and the other in deceased's mouth. The tubing was removed from deceased's mouth by another employee and artificial respiration was tried, but was unsuccessful. A note (produced) was found with deceased's spectacle case on a cooler. (The note was not read.) - Ernest Thurston, accountant, of Spenfield, Essex, said he had been temporarily appointed manager of the Company and took up duty last Monday week. Deceased seemed very depressed and walked about aimlessly. - Dr Stokes attributed death to coal gas poisoning. - A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was recorded. - Mr J. W. Nowell (Messrs. Sparkes and Co., Exeter) represented the Company and expressed sympathy with the widow and family.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 27 March 1930
DUNKESWELL - A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was returned at an Inquest on MR J. HURFORD, of Southlands Farm, Dunkeswell, aged 62, who was found by his son, MR R. HURFORD, having from a beam in a barn, a piece of straw cord being tightly knotted around his neck.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 27 March 1930
OTTERY ST MARY - Ottery Inquest. Investigating Cause Of Cycle Fall. Medical Evidence. - The Inquest on ALFRED CHURCHILL, 73, of 6 Tip-hill, Ottery St Mary, who died as the result of injuries received when he fell off his bicycle in Mill-street, Honiton, on the 17th inst., while returning from work, was resumed at Ottery Town Hall yesterday by Mr C. N. Tweed, Coroner for East Devon. The latter had adjourned the Inquest for the purpose of a post mortem examination to ascertain whether deceased fell off his bicycle as the result of a seizure. - Mr W. F. Thomas (Ottery) represented the deceased's employers (Messrs. Shute, of Honiton), and Mr Clyde S. Mossop appeared for the widow. - P.C. Clymo was recalled, and, in examination by Mr Thomas, said there was no obstruction in the road. - Dr R. R. Traill said the deceased's brain appeared healthy except for some minute haemorrhage, probably due to concussion. There were no signs of old haemorrhage, and the arteries were normal. There was no laceration of the brain or cerebral haemorrhage and it appeared that a stroke or seizure could be excluded. A man might be cycling at any time and become giddy, but that could not be proved. For a man of his age deceased was in a healthy condition. - Arthur Lewis Howard, an employee of Messrs. Shute, said deceased, whom he saw at 2 o'clock on the 17th, complained of feeling unwell. Witness had not heard him complain before. - John Lemon, motor engineer, of Honiton, said he had examined the bicycle, and found there was very uneven tension on the spokes, which caused the rear wheel to buckle. One spoke had caught against the brake shoe; this would jam the brake. Witness agreed with Mr Mossop that the buckling of the wheel probably caused the accident. - Mr Thomas suggested that the fall caused the wheel to buckle. Witness said he should think deceased jammed on his brakes tightly, and the wheel, being weak, buckled. - The Coroner said the Jury might have some difficulty in deciding whether the occurrence was due to a pure accident, or caused by a pre-existing illness. The medical witness had excluded the possibility of a seizure, but the Jury had to decide whether the fall was due to giddiness. If it was an accident there was no question of employers' liability. - The Foreman, Mr H. Streat, announced a verdict of "Accidental Death" caused by a fall from a bicycle, and not from any pre-existing illness.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 27 March 1930
EXETER - Patient's Death. Sequel To Scene At Exeter Hospital. Okehampton Patient. - An Inquest was held by Mr G. H. Stephens, sitting with a Jury, at Exeter Mental Hospital yesterday concerning the death of JAMES HILL, 51, a retired Metropolitan Police Officer, of Okehampton, who died at the Hospital. Mr W. R. C. Bray was Foreman of the Jury. - Dr Gerrish, House Physician at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said deceased was admitted to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital suffering from epilepsy. On the 18th, while witness was doing his round, deceased suddenly became violent. "He escaped from the ward to the top of the stairs leading to the floor below," continued witness. "I followed him, and seized him round the waist from behind to try to prevent him going downstairs. We both rolled down the stairs, 14 in number, together." Witness, who was underneath, was bruised, but so far as he knew deceased did not sustain any injury. He was removed to the Mental Hospital. - P.C. Tame, of the Exeter City Police, one of the attendants with the ambulance, said that on the way to Digby's deceased suddenly became very violent and broke the webbing which held him to the stretcher, but they managed to hold him down. - Dr Black, Assistant Medical Superintendent at the Mental Hospital, said deceased was very violent when he arrived, and four or five nurses were necessary to take him to a padded room. Witness discovered fractured ribs on the left side. The broken ribs were strapped, but the strapping was soon after torn off by deceased. On Sunday morning he died. A post-mortem showed that six ribs were fractured. There were signs of an old fracture over the left side of the skull. The condition of the heart and extreme excitement would have been sufficient to cause death, even if he had not received injuries. - In returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," the Foreman of the Jury expressed sympathy with the widow, in which the Coroner joined.

Western Times, Friday 28 March 1930 KINGSKERSWELL - Old Lady's Death At Kingskerswell. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned by Mr E. Hutchings (Coroner) on Monday, at an Inquest at Kingskerswell, on MISS FRANCES STOOKE, aged 83, of Claremont, who was found dead with her head in the fireplace at her home. - Dr Hatfield said on March 21st he saw the body of MISS STOOKES lying on the hearthrug. There was a slight abrasion on the right side of her forehead, her hair was singed off, and the scalp was blacked and scarred, and also part of the left side of the forehead. Her right shoe was off and lying beside her, and the other was on the foot. In his opinion deceased was perhaps stooping down to undo the other shoe when she had an apoplectic seizure. Death was due to cerebral apoplexy. - Dr Florence Muriel Morris, of Paignton, said MISS STOOKE had been her patient since 1919. She suffered from high blood pressure. In 1929 she had a slight stroke and fell in her bedroom. - Annie Beaumont, cook, said she found MISS STOOKE crouched on the floor with her head inside the fireplace.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 1 April 1930
STOCKLEIGH POMEROY - Tragic Death On Farm. Stockleigh Pomeroy Inquest. - A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was returned by the Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, at an Inquest held at Pleases Farm, Stockleigh Pomeroy, yesterday, concerning the death of ARTHUR YENDELL, who was found hanging in a barn on Saturday. - MAGGIE JERRETT YENDELL, the widow, said that about eight years ago her husband had a nervous breakdown, being ill for about six months. He had recovered and was well up to Tuesday, when he complained of headache, and had had very little sleep since. He was consequently depressed. - FREDERICK YENDELL, brother (Morchard Bishop) produced a note left by deceased, which read: "Goodbye MAGGIE; I leave it all to you."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 1 April 1930
DAWLISH - Dawlish Tragedy. Foreman's Fatal Fall Through Roof. Manager's Warning. - An Inquest was held at Dawlish yesterday by Mr Ernest Hutchings concerning the death of CHARLES ANSTEAD, who fell through a roof at Dawlish Gas Works on Thursday. Mr W. J. K. Cook, H.M. Inspector of Factories, watched the proceedings on behalf of the Home Office, Mr R. McGahey represented the relatives of deceased, and Mr G. McMurtrie represented the Gas Company. The Coroner expressed sympathy with the family of deceased. - REGINALD CHARLES ANSTEAD said that the deceased, his father, was 45 years of age. - Frederick Carter, who was engaged at the works, said that he heard the roof crack, and on looking up saw it fall in with deceased and a ladder. He was repairing the roof. - Alfred Aplin said that he was working with deceased. A ladder was raised to the shuting of the roof and other ladders were placed on the roof. Deceased took measurements of the roof and then said he would go down to see what was in the house. He returned to the foot of one of the ladders across the roof and fell with the ladder to the ground. - Replying to Mr Cook witness said that the accident was due to deceased's weight forcing the end of one of the ladders through the roof. The ladders were not fastened together. Witness added that he had been told that definite instructions were given deceased by the manager to see that the ladders were tied together. - Herbert William Versey, Manager and Secretary of the Dawlish Gas Company, said that deceased was the yard foreman. He gave ANSTEAD instructions to be particularly careful that the ladders were tied together and made secure. He thought only two ladders would be used and that one would support the other. The roof was of asbestos. - Dr Thurlow said that when he saw deceased at the Hospital he was suffering from an extensive fracture of the skull. - Mr Cook observed that the Home Office desired to point out that asbestos could not be relied upon to bear heavy weights unless properly supported. - The Coroner said he desired to emphasise what Mr Cook had said. Although asbestos roofs very properly carried out their purpose they were brittle, and work in connection with them should be approached by people exercising the utmost caution. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed sympathy with the relatives. - Mr G. McMurtrie also extended sympathy on behalf of the Company.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 2 April 1930
NEWTON ABBOT - Shaldon Man's Death. Road Collision Sequel. - An Inquest was held yesterday at Newton Abbot concerning the death of WILLIAM FRANCIS RICHARDS, of Church Hill Cottage, Ringmore, Shaldon, who died from injuries through colliding with a pedestrian while riding his pedal cycle at night. - MRS F. E. RODDA, of Cardiff, a sister, said deceased had recently been wearing spectacles. - Miss Olive Stone, of Coombeinteignhead, said she was proceeding from Newton towards her home about 9 p.m. on March 26th, and was pushing her bicycle up the hill, when she noticed a man pushing a bicycle. She got on her machine and rode down Netherton-hill, overtaking Mrs and Miss Pedrick, who were walking on the left side of the road. Witness had got as far as Buckland seat when she heard Miss Pedrick scream for help. Witness went back about a hundred yards up the hill. Mrs Pedrick was lying close to the hedge, her head being supported by her daughter. A man and a bicycle were lying in the road. Mr Cook came along in his car and went for a doctor. - Miss Betty Pedrick said she and her mother were walking arm in arm towards Netherton. Suddenly her mother fell partly into the hedge and witness noticed something else on the other side of the road. She had heard no bell and saw no light. - Dr Cromie said death was due to fracture of the base of the skull. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed sympathy with the relatives. - The Coroner said Miss Stone and other witnesses had acted in a very commendable way. He expressed sympathy with the widow and children.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 3 April 1930
EXETER - Hotel Tragedy. Southport Lady Found Dead In Bath. Exeter Inquest. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest conducted yesterday by Mr H. Linford Brown, Deputy Coroner, at the Court House, Exeter, concerning the death of MISS BERTHA MARIE LORD, of Southport, who was found dead in a bathroom at the Osborne Hotel, Exeter. - MISS IDA MARION LORD, of Wood View, Broomy Hill, Hereford, identified the body as that of her sister, aged 65. Deceased had been staying at the Osborne Hotel since Thursday. She had been far from strong and had a weak heart. - Susan Pratt, chambermaid at the Hotel, said that about 9.20 on Monday evening deceased asked her to get a bath ready and make it very hot. - Lilian Mary Quinlan, another chambermaid, said that on Monday morning deceased told her that she had not been well during the night. She had toast, tea and an apple for breakfast. She got up at 10.30 and went out about noon. Later deceased said she wanted a very hot bath at about 9 p.m. She told witness that she had had heart sickness. - P.C. Lightfoot said that on going to the bathroom the door was locked. It was forced open, and deceased was found lying under the water in the bath. She appeared to have been dead for some time. - Dr J. Pereira Gray said that he had examined the body, and was of opinion that deceased died from sudden heart failure, probably due to the hot bath.

Western Times, Friday 4 April 1930 DAWLISH - Young Man Found Gassed. - Mr G. Windeatt, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Dawlish Vestry Hall, on Monday, on HAROLD CHARLES CORNELIUS WILLIAMS, aged 27, of Park-road, Dawlish, a plumber, who was found dead from gas poisoning. - The father, THOMAS JOHN WILLIAMS, said on Saturday morning his son seemed very bright and had dinner with witness, his mother and his sister. Witness left home about 2.30 p.m., and was called back about 5.30. He found two Ambulance men performing artificial respiration on his son, who was lying outside the workshop, but Drs. Thurlow and Cann then arrived and pronounced life extinct. - Mr Windeatt: I understand that about last July your son met with a motor cycling accident, but you did not find it necessary to call a doctor at the time. - Witness: Yes. My son was rather unwell early in the year and saw a doctor. He complained of feeling nervous and unwell, and could only do a little light work for some time, but about a fortnight ago took up his work again, and seemed decidedly better. He had never given any sign or suggested that he might take his life. - "Appeared Better After A Change." - Dr F. J. H. Cann said death was due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Witness was consulted by deceased on January 7th, when he was suffering from depression. He went away for a fortnight for a change, after which he appeared better. - EDITH LOUISA MARY WILLIAMS, sister, a chemist's assistant, said about 5 o'clock when she returned home to tea, she called to her brother, who, she understood, was in the workshop, and as he did not come she went to look for him, and found him half lying and half sitting on the floor. Over his head was a paper cement bag and there was a rubber tube leading under it from a gas pipe. She immediately knocked the bag off and turned off the gas. - Mr A. W. H. Bassett, superintendent of Dawlish St John Ambulance, and Miss Leach, aunt of deceased, also gave evidence. - A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound mind" was recorded by the Deputy Coroner, who expressed sympathy with the relatives, and approval of the action of Miss Leach in pulling the body out into the open air.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 9 April 1930
SIDMOUTH - Path & Barrier. Fatal Fall Over Cliff At Sidmouth. Coroner's Views. - The erection of a special notice warning people not to pass over a barrier that has been placed across the cliff-path near Jacob's Ladder, Sidmouth, was advised by the East Devon Coroner, Mr C. N. Tweed, on the occasion of an Inquest yesterday. - "Accidental Death" was the verdict returned, the victim being MISS CECILE MARY BAKER, aged 30, of Wellington, Somerset, who had lately been employed as a nurse by Mrs Granger, of Holcombe, Sidmouth, and whose dead body was found at the bottom of the cliff, over which she was seen to fall, on Sunday morning. - The Coroner sat without a Jury. Inspector Dart, and P.S. Champion represented the Police, and among others present was Mr P. H. Michelmore (Clerk to the Sidmouth Urban Council). - Evidence of identification was given by HENRY RALPH BLACKMORE, an accountant, of Station-road, Wellington, uncle of the deceased, who said he last saw her alive on March 12th - the day before she left Wellington for Sidmouth. She was then in good health. For some years she suffered from a kind of fit, and underwent an operation about six years ago. For the past twelve months, however, she had been in unusually good health. - Edward Weekes, bricklayer, of Old Fore-street, Sidmouth, stated that at about 10.30 a.m. on Sunday he was on the top of Jacob's Ladder, and, as he went across the bridge just above the Ladder, he saw a young lady standing near by. He noticed she had glasses on and was wearing a mackintosh. She was looking westward towards the cliff. There was nothing peculiar about her manner. Witness saw her get over the barrier. - The Coroner: There is no notice to say the public may not proceed past the barrier? - P.S. Champion: There is a notice warning them. - The Coroner: I know there is a warning notice to say the cliff is dangerous, but there is no notice to say people may not go over that barrier. - P.S. Champion: People will go there. - "Heard A Crash." - Witness, proceeding, said he saw deceased get over the barrier, and then he heard a crash. - The Coroner: You cannot say if any cliff gave way with her? - Witness: No. - Witness stated that he went for help and Mr Woolley proceeded to Mr Dagworthy's and informed the Police. - The ambulance was sent for, and arrived with Dr Campbell. - Vera Alice Lane, domestic servant in the employ of Mrs E. Granger, of Holcombe Nursing Home, Coburg-road, Sidmouth, said deceased - a personal friend of Mrs Granger's - came to Holcombe about a month ago. She had previously been employed as a governess at Lympstone. Mrs Granger went away and witness and deceased had conversations. Deceased told witness she had had several illnesses. - The Coroner: Did she say that some previous work in which she had been engaged had been too much for her? - Witness: Yes. - To what work did she refer? - Teaching. - She found her former occupation too much for her, not her present one? - It was when she was at college, I think. - She said she had worked too hard? - She said she had collapsed over different things. - On account of work? - Yes. - Witness, continuing, said Mrs Granger left Sidmouth last Thursday, and witness then saw a good deal of deceased. Last Friday morning deceased said, when she got up, that she had a bad headache and dizziness in her head. - The Coroner: Did she complain of feeling tired? - Just a little tired. - What did she say about her head? - She said her head was all of a whirl. - Did she tell you she was worried? - No, but she had told me she had been told she was a worrying sort of girl. - Witness said deceased wore glasses, but she did not know if she was short-sighted. On Sunday morning she said she had written a letter to Mrs Granger and was going to post it. She also said she was going for a "blow," and asked where Jacob's Ladder was. She thought a "blow" there would do her good. - The Coroner, having read through two letters written by deceased before the occurrence, said there was nothing in either of them to indicate that deceased had any intention of taking her life. - "Never Felt So Fit." - Elizabeth Granger, Matron of Holcombe Nursing Home, Coburg-road, Sidmouth, said she had known deceased about three years. They were friends, having first met at the Cottage Hospital at Wellington. Deceased wrote and asked witness if she (deceased) could do anything to help her, as witness's father was seriously ill. Deceased came to Sidmouth on March 13th, and witness suggested she should stay for a few days. "She was a great friend to me," continued witness, "and was most anxious to do what she could to help me." MISS BAKER had done some nursing before. Witness last saw her alive on Thursday, when witness was going off to her home to nurse her father. Deceased was then quite normal and most happy to be there to be able to do something for witness. She was happy in every way. Witness received a letter from her on the 5th, and deceased wrote on Sunday another letter which witness had had since. - Answering the Coroner in regard to deceased's health, witness said she had had no attacks for 14 months, and she had said a few days previously that she had never felt so fit in her life. - She said she hoped witness would have several patients, so that she could stay and help her. Deceased had no personal trouble whatever. - P.C. Knowles spoke to visiting the scene of the fatality with P.S. Champion. At a point about fifty yards west of Jacob's Ladder they saw the body of deceased lying on its right side. The young woman was dead and had fallen from the cliffs. The latter at this spot were about 150 feet high. The ambulance and Dr Campbell arrived, and the latter pronounced life extinct. The body was conveyed to the Mortuary at Sidmouth Cottage Hospital. - Dr W. S. Campbell deposed that an examination revealed the cause of death to be fracture of the base of the skull. Deceased had evidently fallen upon the vault of her head. - Coroner And Notice. - The Coroner, summing up, said the immediate cause of death was fracture of the base of the skull sustained by a fall from the cliff. He found absolutely nothing in the evidence to lead him to conclude that the deceased had any intention of committing suicide. She did not seem to have been an excitable sort of person likely to get an impulse that would induce her to throw herself over the cliff. Under all the circumstances, he found that deceased died from an Accidental Fall. - When the case was first reported to him - when he heard deceased had got over a barrier - he was a little bit doubtful. He thought then that perhaps the barrier was parallel with the cliff, but it was right across the path. Deceased simply seemed to have got over the barrier and followed the cliff-path - a thing which anybody might do. - "I do think some notice should be put up to say it is dangerous to get over that barrier," observed the Coroner. "The cliff is obviously falling away very rapidly and I believe that is what happened in this case - that part of the cliff gave away." - Council's Position. - Mr Michelmore thought the Coroner would agree that any thinking person would realise it was an unwise thing to climb over the barrier, which was actually put there to block a path. "I would suggest," said Mr Michelmore, "that the Council have done all they properly should do in putting a fence up, having a notice to say the cliffs are dangerous and shutting off the path." - The Coroner suggested it was an old notice that stated the cliffs were dangerous. - Mr Michelmore said the fence was new. To any ordinary person it was palpable that something had gone wrong, as the path was barred off. - The Coroner said he thought some additional notice should be put up to indicate that nobody should pass the barrier. The present notice had been there for years. Possibly, if such a notice as he suggested had been there, this young lady would not have ventured over the railings. - Mr Michelmore: The cliffs are not dangerous unless you go to the edge. - The Coroner: There is nothing to indicate that nobody must go past the barrier. - Mr Michelmore said it might be wise to supplement the barrier with a notice to the effect that the path was closed. - P.S. Champion said people went over the barrier every day. - The Coroner expressed sympathy with the relatives of deceased and also with Mrs Granger, who, he was sure, had lost a good worker. - P.S. Champion associated the Police with the expressions of sympathy.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 10 April 1930
PAIGNTON - Steward's Death. Sad End To Road Crash Near Paignton. - Mr Ernest Hutchings, County Coroner, and a Jury yesterday Inquired into the death of JOHN GERRARD, officer's steward, R.N. College, Devonport, who died from injuries received in an accident late on Sunday evening. GERRARD was returning to Plymouth, and had another officers' steward, James Endacott, riding pillion. At the junction of the main Totnes-Paignton road and Old Brixham-road, near Primley Zoo Gardens, GERRARD apparently mistook the road and turned into the Old Brixham-road, where the machine ran into a heap of stone chippings. Both men were thrown, and GERRARD was rendered unconscious. The pillion rider escaped with a few scratches. GERRARD was conveyed to Paignton and District Hospital, where he succumbed to head injuries on Monday at midday. - THOMAS MASON , of Gloucester, step-father of deceased, said GERRARD was 21 years of age. Witness last saw him when he was on Christmas leave. - James Endacott said he had been with his friend before, and he was a most careful driver. Before the accident witness had seen no car on the road, and GERRARD made no remark of having seen one. After the accident witness remembered seeing a car moving slowly back. The occupants alighted and rendered assistance. - Albert Rowe, of 60 High-street, Exeter, said that he was with two friends in a car, driven by Edward Boyce, of Topsham. They had taken the wrong road and pulled up. Witness was sitting in the back of the car, and the driver asked him to see if the road was clear for him to reverse. Witness looked back and saw a cyclist come round the corner and strike the piles of stones. The driver of the motor cycle was thrown and the bicycle fell on top of him. - Dr Kerby said that deceased sustained a fracture of the base of the skull and subsequent severe concussion of the brain. He never regained consciousness. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Friday 11 April 1930 EXETER - Crediton Lady's Death. Fall In Bedroom Whilst Doing Her Hair. - How a 79-year-old lady died in a Nursing Home a month after falling to the floor in her bedroom when doing her hair was related to the Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, at the Inquest at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday on ELLEN JANE TOTHILL of 3 Blagdon-terrace, Crediton, and stated to be the daughter of a WILLIAM TOTHILL, a man of independent means, of Heavitree. - Deceased died on Wednesday in the St David's Nursing Home, Exeter, and in returning a verdict of "Accidental Death" the Coroner said death was due to haemorrhage (from which deceased had suffered) and shock. - Miss Edith Taylor, housekeeper of deceased, gave evidence of identification, and related how on March 9th she heard deceased, who was getting up, fall, and ongoing into her bedroom witness found deceased on the floor. She said she had turned dizzy and fallen and witness immediately sent for Dr Hugo. She had known MISS TOTHILL for 4 ½ years. She was in fairly good health for her age, though she had high blood pressure. - Dr H. F. L. Hugo, Medical Practitioner, of Crediton, said deceased was a patient of his. On the day of the accident he found her on the floor of her bedroom, and she told him she was doing her hair, and that "the place swam around her and she fell over." She was suffering from a fracture of the neck of the left clavicle and the left femur, and witness ordered her removal to St David's Nursing Home. He was of opinion that she would still be alive had it not been for the fall, though the direct cause of death was haemorrhage. - In passing the verdict stated, the Coroner said the injuries sustained in the fall were a contributory cause of death.

Western Times, Friday 11 April 1930 HOUNSLOW, MIDDLESEX - Devon Airman Killed. Crash Into Orchard In Middlesex. Plane In Flames. - GEORGE EDWARD WATTS, of St Maur, Totnes, was killed when the airplane he was piloting crashed and burst into flames at Feltham, Middlesex, on Sunday. - The machine, of which MR WATTS was the sole occupant, belonged to National Flying Services of Hanworth. It was seen to be flying erratically and after banking steeply, crashed into an orchard where it burst into flames. The pilot was dragged away from the blazing machine by people who rushed to the scene, but was found to be dead on arrival at the local Hospital. - MR WATTS was the only son of the late MR T. E. WATTS, who was for some time on the staff of the Devon and Cornwall Bank, since taken over by Lloyds Bank, at Totnes, from which he went to Holsworthy, and subsequently to Honiton as manager. He died there. - Deceased's mother is the only surviving daughter of Surg.-Lieut.-Col. Gidson, of St Maur, Totnes, with whom she resides. She had gone to London and had been staying at an Hotel there with her son, who had held various positions in Nigeria and intended to return there at an early date to take up a new appointment. - MR WATTS was a very promising young man, and a fine athlete, cricketer and footballer, and in the latter capacity on many occasions had played threequarter for Totnes Rugby Club. - Attempts to drag out a dying pilot, who lay trapped in the burning wreckage of an aeroplane, were graphically described, Tuesday, to Dr Crone, the Deputy Coroner for West Middlesex, at the Inquest at Hounslow, on GEORGE EDWARD WATTS, 28, of St Maur, Totnes, who lost his life in an air crash at Feltham, Middlesex, on Saturday. - Evidence of identification was given by Major General David Harvey, of Queens Gardens, Ealing, a life-long friend of WATTS, who was, he said, a Colonial civil servant home on leave from Nigeria. - John Halls, a lorry driver of Park Cottages, Feltham, described how he and other men dragged WATTS from the wreckage. - "The aeroplane," he said, "was flying very low, as if the pilot were going to land. It caught the trees in an orchard and the next thing I saw was a cloud of smoke and a sheet of flame." - "I ran to the wreckage, but could not see the pilot because of the flames. We could not do anything for a few minutes. Then myself and two or three others pulled the 'plane away from the pilot. He was terribly burned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 12 April 1930
SOUTH MOLTON - Fatal Burns. Young Southmolton Man's Terrible Ordeal. Roadside Accident. - The circumstances concerning the tragic death of FREDERICK CHARLES SLEE, aged 22, of Cooks' Cross, Southmolton, a County Council employee, who died in Southmolton Hospital as a result of burns, were Inquired into yesterday by the North Devon Coroner, Dr Ellis Pearson. - Matthew Hancock, road foreman, said that the accident occurred at Bishopsnympton, where deceased was working on a tar crock. SLEE said, "I am just going to hoist this cask and then have my lunch." Having done so he came down the ladder and was in a stooping position and then in a twinkling he was covered in tar and in flames. Witness pulled him out. - Replying to Mr J. Furse Sanders (Southmolton), who represented the relatives, witness said that he did not know there was any negligence, and so far as he knew deceased carried out his duties in a proper manner. - Samuel H. Gardener, District Surveyor, said that he had known tar catch fire before, but did not know what could be done to avoid it. Every precaution was taken so far as he knew in this case. He had known three similar occurrences in the nine years of his experience with the County Council. - Evidence was given by Mrs Harriet Tudball (Matron of the Cottage Hospital, Southmolton), and Dr F. J. C. Baker (Southmolton) said that deceased was very badly burned, and it was a hopeless case from the first. - Mr T. Oerton, jun. (Bideford), who represented Messrs. Shell, Mex, Ltd., pointed out it was not a tar which was being used. - Walter Charles Perkins, technical engineer for Shell Mex, Ltd., said the substance was a bitumen known as Mexphalte, and was a product from the petroleum crude, and contained no inflammable or light extracts. - The Coroner; How did it catch fire in this case? - Witness: By the motion of water it boils up and foams over the top, but does not catch fire until brought into contact with the name. This was in his opinion the cause of the accident. Witness added that the Mexphalte might foam over if the contents if the contents of the crock got extremely low, when a fierce fire was underneath, and a cold material put in. - The Coroner asked if in witness's experience he had known a similar accident. - Witness: No. - Mr Sanders raised a question as to the instructions being sent out with regard to the use of the material, and witness said that various booklets were sent out, and he visited various plants from time to time. - The Coroner, returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," said that he considered every precaution was taken, and no blame could be attached to anyone. He also thought the bitumen was not as dangerous as the old tar, and that it caught fire while boiling over into the flames. - Sympathy to the relatives was expressed, and Mr Fred Verney said as a member of the County Council, representing that Division, he would like to express his regret. He added, "I may assure the relatives and the public that every precaution will be taken in the future to see that such a shocking accident does not occur again." - The Inquest was also attended by Mr Chevallier (Assistant Solicitor Main Roads) and Mr R. M. Stone (County Surveyor).

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 12 April 1930
LYMPSTONE - Gassed. Lympstone Labourer's Death. Mind Unhinged. - The District Coroner, Mr C. N. Tweed) conducted an Inquest at Lympstone yesterday on WILLIAM FRANK HAYMAN BAMSEY, labourer, aged 65, who was found dead in the kitchen of his home, Baker and Bassett's Cottage, Higher Lympstone, on Wednesday night by P.C. Holding. - GEORGE HENRY BAMSEY, son, of 44 Second-avenue, Torquay, gave evidence of identification. He last saw his father alive about two years ago. He was then in good health and normal state of mind. Witness did not know that he was in trouble of any kind, and did not know an ejectment order had been made against him. - By the Coroner: Deceased got his living by doing any odd job. He was a Naval Reserve man, but had no pension, as he drew a lump sum on retiring. - William Edward Smart, Baker's Cottages, Lympstone, said that on Wednesday he went to P.C. Harding and told him he was afraid something had happened to MR BAMSEY, who lived next door. - Witness was in the habit of seeing deceased about the house and heard him say his prayers each night, but had not seen or heard him since Sunday. - Deceased was then in the best of health, and witness noticed nothing peculiar in his manner. On Wednesday evening witness went with P.C. Harding to the house and saw BAMSEY sitting in a chair in the kitchen. There was no smell of gas, but a piece of tubing lying on deceased's chest was connected with a gas burner. Deceased had never complained about the ejectment. - William Henry Newberry, 9 the Village, Lympstone, said he saw deceased alive on Monday night. - MRS HILLMAN, sister of the deceased, said he called about six weeks ago and said he had been to the Police Station to see about a warrant of ejectment which he did not think was in order. At that time her brother was not troubled, thinking the landlady would take no further steps in the matter. Deceased was a naturally cheerful man, whether in or out of work, and she had never heard him threaten to commit suicide. - By Inspector Dart: Deceased liked his glass of beer, but was never a bother to anyone. - "Not Very Far." - Mrs Mary Chudleigh, Harefield Lodge, Lympstone, said she saw deceased on Sunday night. She noticed nothing peculiar. He was cheerful and happy, as he always was, and did not seem to be at all worried about the ejectment order. - A few days ago he told her he was going to sell up, as he had to leave the house. She asked him where he was going, and he said "Not very far." He added that he would set fire to his furniture if he could not sell it. - She did not think this indicated he was at all desperate. - P.C. Harding related that, having found both doors of the cottage locked, he obtained a ladder and entered through an upper window. He found deceased sitting in an armchair with two blankets would closely round him. Under the blankets was a piece of rubber tubing connected with a gas burner. He was cold and stiff and appeared to have been dead for some time. Witness had searched the house, but found nothing to account for the tragedy. There were letters from the landlady and a rent book showing he was 31 weeks in arrears. When witness entered the kitchen he noticed blankets across the fire-place and tucked under the two doors. The gas burner was turned on, and so was a gas stove in the back kitchen. There was a penny in the slot meter. - The Coroner said it was clear deceased took his own life by coal gas poisoning. There was little evidence to show whether he was sane or insane at the time, but it was clear he was in some financial difficulties and troubled by the ejectment order. A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was entered.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 12 April 1930
PLYMOUTH - At an Inquest at Plymouth on ERNEST JACK ACKRELL, aged 20 years, motor mechanic, of No. 5 Quarry-terrace, Paignton, who died at Plymouth, following injuries sustained in a motor cycle collision near Ivybridge on March 26th with William Robert Jeffery, of Pym-street, Devonport, the Jury returned a verdict "that deceased died from injuries received in a motor cycle accident, due to the negligent driving of Jeffery, but which negligence was not culpable."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 16 April 1930
EXETER - The Deputy City Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, opened an Inquest at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, on MR FREDERICK KINGDON, who died at his residence, Trenarren, West-avenue, Exeter, on April 13th. Deceased was a native of Southmolton, and removed to Exeter in 1914. He leaves a widow. HARRY ERNEST KINGDON of St Lucia, Exeter-road, Kingsteignton, identified the body as that of his brother. He was a retired cooper and about 55 or 56 years of age. For some years his health had been indifferent, and he had suffered from apoplexy. The Deputy Coroner observed that, as the cause of death had not been ascertained, he proposed to adjourn the proceedings until May 13th.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 17 April 1930
TAVISTOCK - Body In River. Tavistock Tragedy. - The body of MISS HILDA ELIZABETH GREENING, 28, single, of 31 West Bridge Cottages, Tavistock, who was missing from her home on Friday, was found on Saturday in the River Walkham. Deceased was formerly an attendant at the local Cinema. On leaving home, she is reported to have said to her mother, a war widow: "Good-bye, mother; I am going for a long walk." The following note has also been found:- "I find this is the only way out, as I cannot get a job. I leave all my money to DOLLY (a sister), who is a cripple, like myself." At the Inquest a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

Western Times, Thursday 17 April 1930 PORTSMOUTH, HAMPSHIRE - Wembury Girl's Death. Portsmouth Inquest Adjourned Until Beginning Of July. - The Inquest on MISS AUDREY F. BENNETT, of Southsea, and formerly of Wembury, Devon, in connection with whose death, following a motor cycle collision, a commercial traveller, named George White, has been committed for trial on a charge of manslaughter, was opened at Portsmouth on Friday, and adjourned until July 14th. - Medical evidence of MISS BENNETT'S death after an operation in Hospital, to which she had been admitted with both thighs broken, was given, and Herbert Edward Eyre, of Southsea, with whom MISS BENNETT was walking on Portsdown Hill on the night of March 16th, described how his companion was knocked down. - The Coroner said it would be impossible to proceed with the Inquest until after the Hampshire Assizes had been held in July and adjourned the proceedings accordingly. - MISS BENNETT was employed in the Admiral-Superintendent's office, Portsmouth Dockyard.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 19 April 1930
OTTERY ST MARY - Infant's Death. Ottery Inquest Verdict. - That death was due to "a puncture of the bowels sustained by some external blow," was the verdict of the East Devon Coroner, Mr C. N. Tweed, at the adjourned inquest on Saturday concerning the death on the previous Tuesday of MARGARET FLORENCE WHALE, the 3 ½ year old step-child of MRS KATE FRANCES WHALE, of Ottery St Mary. - The step-mother was asked if she could account for a mark on the child's stomach, considered by three doctors to resemble a burn. She said she had made up the fire and placed the baby in front of it. She had thought the mark was a bruise from a fall. - Dr Traill said that death was due to peritonitis, following perforation of the bowels.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 19 April 1930
EXETER - Found On Footpath. Exeter Inquest On Former Dulverton Ostler. Thickened Blood Vessels. - The Deputy City Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, at Exeter on Thursday, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" at the Inquest on HENRY MOLES, aged about 65, who was found lying dead on the footpath in Cowley-road, Exeter, early on Wednesday morning. - ALBERT MOLES, 78 East-John-street, Exeter, said deceased was his brother. He had no fixed abode. Witness last saw his brother about three weeks ago. He then told witness he was going into the Infirmary of the casual ward. The last time deceased followed any occupation was when he was a temporary postman. In his younger days he was an ostler at Dulverton. He was rather liable to fits. - Frederick Charles Lee, 3 Turk's Head-court, Exeter, said that about 6.55 a.m. on Wednesday he was going to work on the Cowley-road, and was walking on the high path when he saw deceased lying on the path with his chin on a seat. Both hands were in his mackintosh pockets. He was dead. His bag and stick were lying on the seat. Witness would not have thought deceased had been lying on the seat. - Dr J. Pereira Gray said deceased had been in and out of the casual ward for many months. The last time witness saw him there he was lying in bed in the receiving ward looking dazed and stupid. Witness was told that deceased was subject to fits. Eventually he took his discharge against advice. He always said he wanted to get out into the fresh air. Witness attributed death to heart failure owing to thickening of the blood vessels.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 21 April 1930
COLEBROOKE - Rusty Nail. Death Of Colebrooke Blacksmith. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned by the Deputy District Coroner, Mr Gilbert H. Stephens, at an Inquest at Colebrooke on Thursday on WILLIAM SNELL HEYWOOD, a blacksmith, who, in November last, scratched his forehead with a rusty nail. - Dr Bastard said he found inflammation of the scalp extending to deceased's left eye, which was swollen and closed. For several days he was delirious. His mental condition was never the same afterwards. He improved eventually, but he never properly recovered. The sight was affected. On Monday last, after his fall, witness found him vomiting, and advised him to wash out his stomach with water. After his death deceased's wife informed witness that the vomiting did not stop. The poisoning would produce weakness of the heart muscle and the vomiting would bring about heart failure. Witness considered that the accident contributed to the cause of death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 23 April 1930
EXMINSTER - Asylum Tragedy. Sequel To Push By A Patient. Exminster Inquest. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned at an Inquiry conducted by Mr G. H. Stephens, with a Jury, at the County Mental Hospital, Exminster, yesterday, into the circumstances surrounding the death of MARY ANNE GREEN, aged 75, who was pushed from a seat by another inmate in January, sustained a fractured leg and died on April 18th. - Dr M. J. W. Mitchell, Assistant Medical Superintendent of the Hospital, said that on January 16th he was informed by the Matron that deceased had met with an accident. He examined her and found she had a swelling over the right hip, any manipulation of which caused considerable pain. He then thought she had sustained a fractured hip, and this deduction was confirmed by X-ray examination. She died on April 18th. Towards the end of March she was confined to bed by his orders. She was then getting feeble, would take very little food and was generally failing. After death he made an autopsy and discovered her heart was very degenerated and that she had congestion of both lungs - especially at the bases. In the region of the fracture there was a firm union by fibrous tissue and callos. He was of opinion that death might have been accelerated by the accident. - Alice Ryan, nurse, said she was in the day room, where deceased sat by another patient. This patient - who was very spiteful and almost blind and deaf - gave her a push, and deceased fell to the floor. It was not a very violent push, but deceased, being in a feeble condition, was unable to resist it.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 23 April 1930
EXMOUTH - Exmouth Tragedy. Coroner And Doctor Who Would Not Come. Birth And Death. - There was dramatic evidence at an Inquest at Exmouth yesterday on the body of MRS DOROTHY LOUISE CARTER, aged 26, of 3 George-street, who died early on Sunday morning after giving birth to a child. At the conclusion the Coroner, Mr C. N. Tweed, told Dr Walker that in one respect he had been "somewhat failing in his duty." - WILLIAM FRANK CARTER, 3 George-street, husband of the deceased, gave evidence of identification. He said his wife visited Dr Walker about eight months ago to inquire about her condition, and asked him if it would be necessary to engage him for the confinement. The doctor told her if he was wanted he would come. On Saturday last the nurse called about five p.m., and left saying she would call again. She was present when the child was born at 1.15 on Sunday morning. After the baby was born there was some trouble, and under the nurse's instructions he went with a letter to Dr Walker. He rang the bell, and Dr Walker answered. "I asked him," said witness, "if he would please come to MRS CARTER at once. I said I had a letter, but he refused to come. I told him my wife had given birth to a child, and I pressed him to come." - The Coroner: Did you say anything to him as to why he should come? - Witness: I said "I have a letter here, and you will understand," but he would not come out to read it. He said the next morning would do." - Doctor's "Damn It All." - Continuing, witness said that in response to Dr Walker's request that he should get another doctor, he called on Dr Moore, who was ill, and on Dr de Glanville, who was away. Then he returned to report to the nurse. She said: "Go at once to Dr Walker and tell him he must come." Then, said Mr Carter, "I went a second time, and that was when he swore at me. When he answered the bell I told him that the nurse said he must come, and he said: 'Damn it all; it isn't a question of must. I wasn't engaged.' I said: 'Even if you weren't engaged you told her you would come if necessary, and that is as good as being engaged." He then told me to go to Dr Coke, who has a surgery in Exeter-road, but lives at Littleham. What was the good of that at that time of the night?" When he returned to the nurse for the second time she told him to go to the Nurses' Home and telephone for Dr Murray. He went, but there was some trouble about the 'phone and finally he went on foot. Dr Murray came immediately. - Asked if he would like to put any question, Dr Walker replied: "No. I think his evidence is fairly clear." - Annie Mary Sparkes, of 15 Meadow-street, wife of Chas. Fredk. Sparkes, said some time in November last she accompanied MRS CARTER to see Dr Walker. The doctor said he did not think she need engage him for the confinement as she appeared to be an ordinary normal woman, but the nurse would know where to send if he was wanted. - Dr Murray said he was called at 3.20 on Sunday morning, and with the aid of Dr Grey performed an operation on MRS CARTER, who was suffering from haemorrhage. She died at 6.15. - "A Better Chance If ---. " - The Coroner: Do you think that had deceased had medical attention earlier that this could have been avoided? - Witness: I think the chance would have been very much better. - I take it that in your opinion the midwife did all she could? - Yes. - What is the practice when you are consulted prior to a confinement? - If you had said "I will attend a case if necessary," would you have felt bound -morally bound - to attend if called upon? - Yes, I should. - And that is the practice? - Invariably my practice. I do not know of any other. - Annie Irene Greenacre, registered midwife of Exmouth, said the case was brought to her notice some time ago. After the baby had been born on Sunday morning there was some difficulty, and, at five minutes to two, she wrote a note which she asked the husband to take to Dr Walker. If he could not come she told him to go straight to Dr Moore. Later MR CARTER returned and said he had been to Dr Walker, who was unable to come. He said he had also tried Dr Moore and Dr de Glanville. CARTER told her that Dr Walker had said: "If you cannot get another doctor, come back to me and I will come," and she then sent him back to Dr Walker at once. He again returned and said the doctor would not come as it was not his case, and it could remain until the next morning. She then sent him to the Nurses' Home to telephone for Dr Murray, who arrived about 3.30 a.m. - The Coroner: Then the total loss of time was about one and a half hours? - Witness: Yes. - That time was wasted? - Absolutely. - The Doctor's Story. - Dr George Francis Clegg Walker, of Exeter-road, Exmouth, said on Saturday night he did not go to bed until one o'clock, and after that he was called at 2, 3 and 6 o'clock. One was in respect of another patient, and the other occasions in respect of the deceased. When MR CARTER called at 2 o'clock, he told him he could not attend the case. He had been out on the three previous nights until a quarter past one on official business, and when CARTER called he told him definitely that he would not take the case. He had not been asked to take the case on. "When you are not definitely engaged," explained the doctor, "if I wanted to go away for a weekend, I should not stay at home for a thing like that. In this case if the nurse could have managed, I should never have been called at all. Had I known this case was coming off I should never have gone to bed that night. I should have taken my boots off and laid down in my dressing gown. I knew nothing about it until 2 o'clock, and I had not gone to bed until one. I was not feeling well myself. I have not been for some time. There are nine other doctors in the town, and I gave him the opportunity of getting in another doctor. Is it good enough for you to attend a case when you are not feeling up to the mark? - The Coroner: Then you deny that you promised to take it up? - Witness: I have my books in the Court and her name is not down in my list of engagements. - The Doctor continued: I think the nurse can clear up the point that I would come if required. - Coroner's Questions. - The Coroner: It is not in any book? - Witness: No. If it had been I should have gone or arranged for some other doctor to have done so. I had not been regularly engaged for this case at all, and I thought some other doctor could have gone. I was in the same boat as Dr Moore who had a bilious attack, and as Dr de Glanville, who was away. I am very sorry this accident happened, but I do not see that I am to blame. If you are not feeling well enough to attend the case you cannot go, can you? - A little later the Coroner asked: Did you read the note from the nurse? - Witness: That came with the second visit. - No. according to the evidence, it came with the first. Did you read it? - No. I was speaking down the speaking-tube from my bed. - Didn't it occur to you that you should have satisfied yourself at the time that it was not an urgent case? - I thought I had satisfied myself by the message I got up my speaking-tube. - But you did not come downstairs to read the note, which, if you had, would have conveyed to you the fact that it was an urgent case? - Well, he did not call that up the speaking-tube. - But he did say he had got a note, didn't he? - He did say something about a note. But why didn't he get another doctor? I thought he would have had another doctor by then. - Did you say, "Try to get another doctor, and if you can't get one I will come?" - Yes. - And, having said that, he did return and said he could not get another doctor? Why did you alter your mind and say you would not come? - I did not understand that he could not get another doctor. In all the years I have been in practice I have never had a woman die in a confinement. Had the husband called up the tube "Haemorrhage" I would have come. - Some Contradictions. - But you would not expect a man to know a thing like that? - The nurse could have written it. - The nurse did write it. - The Exmouth Postmaster explained that Dr Murray could not be called from the nurse's home owing to a defect in the circuit. It was one of these unfortunate cases which with all their organisation, they could not prevent. - Answering further questions, the doctor said when the man first came he said nothing about the letter, but when asked if he wished to challenge CARTER'S statement that he did, witness replied "No." - The Coroner: Then he did tell you he had a message from the nurse? - Witness: I told him clearly and definitely that I could not turn out. - In reply to a further question, Dr Walker said he did not recollect swearing at CARTER. What he thought he said was "Hang it all." - Coroner's Summing Up. - The Coroner said this was a difficult case to deal with. There was no doubt that deceased died from haemorrhage following a confinement, and there was little doubt in his mind that life might just have been saved had medical attention been given before it was. Dr Walker said he had not been definitely engaged to take the case, and that had he been there would have been an entry in his appointment's book. But from the evidence of the husband of Mrs Sparkes it was established that Dr Walker, as a matter of fact, had clearly indicated that if he was wanted he would come. How far in medical etiquette that bound a doctor he was unable to say. He could only say he would think, from the layman's point of view, that there was a moral obligation on the part of the doctor to attend or to get somebody else, even if he had not made an entry in his book. - Dr Murray seemed rather to agree with that view, as he had said that in similar circumstances he would have considered himself bound to attend this case. What struck him was this, where Dr Walker made his mistake: Here was the man CARTER sent with an urgent letter from the nurse to Dr Walker and had Dr Walker only read that letter he would have seen that the case was an urgent one. Doubtless, had he read it he would have waived all other considerations to have come. But Dr Walker never saw that note, and, in consequence, he did not know the urgency of the case. He was very tired, and had been out the three previous nights, but he had said that had he placed the name on the book, or realised it was urgent, he would have gone. He could have realised that it was an urgent case had he only read the letter, as after receiving the message back from CARTER that there was a note for him it would not have been much for him to have made himself aware of its contents. But he did not, and to that extent he was bound to say that Dr Walker was somewhat failing in his duty. He did not propose to make any note in his verdict, but he felt bound to express his personal opinion in the matter.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 25 April 1930
EXMINSTER - Unable To Sleep. An Exminster Tragedy. - A Topsham doctor's tragic discovery was described to the Deputy District Coroner, Mr G. H. Stephens, at an Inquest at Exminster, yesterday, on HARRY WINSON, 49, nurse at the Devon Mental Hospital, who was found with his throat cut at his home, 5 Lymes Cottages, Exminster, on Wednesday morning. - MRS WINSON said her husband had influenza and bronchitis, and was unable to sleep. He was terribly distressed about it. On Wednesday morning he shaved in bed while his son, FREDDY, held the glass. At 11.45 the same morning, when Dr Morton, of Topsham, called, deceased was found lying on the floor. He had never threatened to take his life. - Dr Morton said he found the door locked. He kicked it open, and saw deceased lying face downwards on the floor, with a cut on either side of the throat. A razor was lying in a huge pool of blood. Deceased was stone dead. - The Deputy Coroner returned a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind," and said that deceased, who was normally one of the jolliest of men, had evidently succumbed to a sudden impulse owing to his lack of sleep. He expressed sympathy with the widow and family.

Western Times, Friday 25 April 1930 HONITON - Woman's Death On Way To Hospital. Knocked Down By A Motor-Cycle. Honiton Jury Exonerate The Rider. - At the Inquest on Saturday at Honiton on MISS SARAH ANN SALWAY, aged 63 years, housekeeper to Mr F. W. Harding, of Honiton, who died at the Honiton Hospital as the result of severe injuries received when she came into collision with a motor cyclist in High-street, Honiton, about 10 p.m. on Thursday week, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death. - MARY JANE SALWAY said deceased, her sister, was a little short-sighted. - Hedley William Parker, signalman, Southern Railway Company, and residing in New-street, Honiton, said he saw deceased walking across the street and a motor cyclist coming from the direction of Axminster. Witness heard someone, who he thought was the motor cyclist shout, and next saw the cyclist swerve in an attempt to avoid deceased. She was, however, knocked down. The motor cyclist was not driving recklessly, but witness could not estimate his speed. - Questioned by the Coroner, Mr C. N. Tweed, witness said that he did not think deceased heard the motor cyclist shout. The latter was on his correct side of the road. - Replying to Sergt. Johnson, witness said he thought that the motor cyclist was too close to deceased when he first saw her to pass behind her. - Harry Roy Read, garage proprietor, High-street, Honiton, stated that the motor cyclist was on his proper side of the road, and was travelling at about 20 miles an hour. Rain was falling, and darkness had set in. Witness saw the woman hesitate for a moment, and then the motor cyclist struck her. The cyclist had previously endeavoured to avoid her by swerving to his right; he might have avoided deceased had she stood still. - Motor Cyclist's Evidence. - Albert Walker Langrish, motor driver, of Arcot Park, Sidmouth, said he was riding a motor cycle from Clapper Lane, Honiton, towards the Sidmouth turning, with a m an named Young, of Sidmouth, riding pillion. He did not see anyone in the road until he came almost beside deceased. He shouted to her, and tried to avoid an accident by going round to the right of her, but failed. - Witness thought he was travelling at about 15 or 20 miles an hour. Deceased did not take any notice of witness when the latter shouted. If she had stopped still when witness was almost upon her an accident would have been averted. Witness was thrown from his machine and was rendered unconscious. He could not remember whether he sounded his horn. - William Frederick Young, motor driver, of Arcot-road, Sidmouth, who was riding pillion, gave similar evidence, adding that he waved his hand to some girls, but could not say whether the rider of the motor cycle did so. If deceased had remained still the cyclist would have avoided her. - Alfred Wood, painter and decorator, of New-street, Honiton, said deceased on Thursday evening appeared to be in her normal health. - Constable Pike stated that when he arrived on the scene of the accident deceased was lying in the roadway. She was bleeding profusely and appeared to be badly injured. Dr Steele Perkins attended her, and she was afterwards removed t the Infirmary. The surface of the street was wet and greasy. - Dr D. Steele Perkins, of Honiton, stated that deceased's right leg and left ankle were broken, and her skull fractured. She never regained consciousness, and died while being taken to the Infirmary. The cause of death was a fracture of the base of the skull. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added that the motor cyclist was in no way to blame for the accident.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 26 April 1930
HALBERTON - Plunged Into Canal. Halberton Tragedy. - "Death by Misadventure" was the verdict returned by Mr G. H. Stephens, Deputy County Coroner, at an Inquest last night at Halberton relative to the death of SIDNEY WILLIAM TARR, 29, farm worker, employed by Mr F. Grabham at Halberton Court, who was drowned in the Great Western Canal. - The evidence was that deceased was cycling along the tow-path when his machine slipped and plunged him into the Canal. Two tramps, who saw his hands held up, rushed to his assistance, and projected a ladder over the water without avail. - Mr Grabham said that TARR chose the path as a short cut to some fields he had to visit.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 28 April 1930
EXETER - The Inquest on MR W. J. HOWARD, of Honiton, who died at Exeter Hospital after being knocked down by a motor cycle, has been adjourned till May 13th.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 29 April 1930
TIVERTON - Pricked Finger. Tiverton Employee's Fatal Injury. - "Accidental Death" was the verdict returned at an Inquest by Dr Perry and a Jury at Tiverton last night on ARTHUR DREW, outfitter's manager in the employ of Messrs. Soundy and Son, of Tiverton, who died of general septicaemia, set up by a prick on the finger sustained while serving a customer about April 11th. - MRS DREW said her husband came home from business on the 19th complaining of shooting pains all over his body. Dr Lowe was summoned, and he told her to treat the finger, which was becoming septic. Deceased temporarily improved, but on Tuesday became much worse and developed a high temperature. On Friday he complained of pains in his arms and legs and the following day was removed to Hospital, where he died. - Mr David Clark Soundy, of Gold-street, Tiverton, said deceased had been in his father's employ for 19 years. While putting his hand into a box of hosiery deceased caught his finger on a piece of wire binding. Deceased took little notice of the wound and continued working. - Dr Lowe said that at first the deceased's condition improved considerably. On Tuesday of last week, however, his condition became very serious. Witness diagnosed general septicaemia, and called in an Exeter surgeon. An operation was performed on Saturday.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 30 April 1930
EXETER - Tetanus. Slight Wound Leads To Boy's Death. Crediton Accident. - How death was caused by a slight wound received while playing with a toy trolley was related to Mr H. Linford Brown, Deputy City Coroner, at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, when he conducted an Inquest on ERNEST JOHN RIPPON, aged 11, of Lower Westwood, Crediton. - MRS MARGARET RIPPON said her son was playing with a trolley in the garden on April 18th, when he knocked his left leg against one of the metal wheels. Witness treated the wound with iodine. On Thursday deceased complained of a stiffness in the neck, and witness summoned a doctor, who ordered the boy's removal to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, where he died on Sunday. - Dr N. Gerrish, House Surgeon, said deceased was suffering from tetanus when admitted to the Hospital. Death was due to exhaustion following tetanus, caused by a wound on the left leg. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 30 April 1930
ST MARYCHURCH - Cliff Tragedy. Scramble After A Golf Ball At Torquay. - At an Inquest yesterday afternoon at the St Marychurch Town Hall, concerning the death of FRANK WOOLSTON, who was drowned off Wall's Hill on Monday, the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. E. Windeatt, returned a verdict of "Death from Misadventure." - Frederick Gordon Mardon, aged 13, of 5 Camden-road, Torquay, said that deceased and himself went down over the cliff to pick cowslips. Deceased saw a golf ball, and went further down. Witness went with him, but returned as he thought it was too dangerous. As he was climbing the cliff he heard a scream, and on returning saw WOOLSTON fall into the sea. - The Coroner expressed the wish that parents and school teachers and all who could use their influence with boys should warn them of the dangers of cliff edges.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 5 May 1930
FENITON - Hot Water Tragedy. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned at an Inquest at Feniton on PATRICIA CLARKE, aged two years, daughter of ELLEN MARTHA CLARKE, a cook, employed at Torquay. It was stated that the child fell backwards into a bowl of hot water at Gay's Farm, in the occupation of Mrs Harris, where the child was boarded. The Coroner, Mr B. R. Dunning, said it was very foolish of Mrs Harris to leave the hot water on the floor with a child of two years at play.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 6 May 1930
EXETER - Young Woman's Death. Inquest On Victim Of Telegraph Hill Crash. Car And Combination. - At the Court House, Exeter, last evening, the Exeter Deputy Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, with the assistance of a Jury (of which Mr C. Spiller was Foreman), conducted an Inquest on ROSAMOND BETTY ROBERTA YEOMAN, aged 18, single, of Tors-hill, Kingsteignton, who died at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital early on Saturday from injuries received when a motor car and motor cycle combination, in which she was riding, collided at the bottom of Telegraph-hill on April 30th. - Mr M. J. McGahey represented Mr Whitney Straight, of Dartington Hall, Dartington, the driver of the car; Mr F. P. Cottey appeared on behalf of Mr Anning, the driver of the motor cycle combination, and the relatives of the deceased; and the Police were represented by the Deputy Chief Constable of Devon (Major Halford Thompson), Inspector Willcocks (Teignmouth), and P.S. Barnacott. - ALFRED PHILIP YEOMAN, builder, of Kingsteignton identified the body as that of his daughter, who resided with him. She had been in good health. - Deceased Sitting Sideways. - FREDERICK JOHN ANNING, of Kingsteignton, garage proprietor, stated that on April 30th he left Newton Abbot about 7 p.m. on a Douglas 600 c.c. motor cycle combination. He was going to Exeter. With him were his wife, a Miss Holloway, and MISS YEOMAN. The last-named was his sister-in-law. Miss Holloway was on the seat of the sidecar, and MISS YEOMAN was on her lap, with her feet over the side of the sidecar. She was sitting sideways in Miss Holloway's lap. His wife was riding pillion. He had driven with four people up before, but not very often. As they came down over Telegraph-hill and approached the junction with Haldon-hill witness saw an R.A.C. scout. The latter signalled him on. He was then driving at about 20 to 22 miles an hour. Looking over some iron railings in the Kennford direction, he saw three cars approaching. He passed one car practically on the corner. This car went up Telegraph-hill. Witness had to pass across the road to continue his journey, which was "passing across the up-coming traffic." He had a clear view of the road. He could not say what happened to the second car, but he saw the third car some way down the road. In his own judgment, he had plenty of time and room to cross the road before any other traffic came up. When he was about half-way across the road he suddenly saw the car driven by Mr Straight coming at him. He (witness) accelerated to get over closer to his left-hand side and continued so doing until the other car was practically striking him. He tried then to avoid the car by pulling his outfit to the right. The driver of the car tried to go between the sidecar and witness's left-hand hedge. At the last moment witness realised that the driver of the car was going to try and go between the sidecar and the hedge, so he (witness) tried to give him more room. This, as it were, exposed deceased to the front of the car, and, when the collision occurred, deceased's legs were struck. - "Plenty Of Time. " - The wheel of the sidecar was broken right off, and the body of the outfit was knocked off the chassis. The car and combination could only have been in full view of each other a matter of seconds. When witness first saw the car it was travelling fast. Witness would say the car was doing 40 to 50 miles an hour. - The Coroner: Then why didn't you stop? - Witness: I considered I had plenty of time. - The Coroner: Would it not have been wiser to have remained where you were? - Witness: I knew I had plenty of time to go across. - The Coroner: But you didn't have plenty of time as it happened. - In further answer to the Coroner, witness said he thought the approaching car was going in the Telegraph-hill direction. - The Coroner: It intended to go up over Haldon-hill. - By a Juror: When he got to the centre of the bend the car was quite 100 yards away. Witness's brakes were in good working order. - In answer to Mr Cottey, witness said the point of impact was not at the junction of the roads, but in the straight. If the motor car had been in the centre of the road he would have avoided it. - Mr McGahey, observing that there were two cars in front of the one involved, asked: "Whatever motions the R.A.C. scout made would probably not be observable to the driver of the third car? - Witness replied that they might not have been observable to him. Witness said he and his party were going to the Speedway at Exeter. He was not going at 30 miles an hour. It was not more than 22 miles an hour as he passed the corner. After the occurrence Mr Straight did everything he could. - By Mr Cottey: After the accident Mr Straight said, "I am awfully sorry: I am absolutely and entirely in the wrong. - Road Marks. - P.C. Perryman, stationed at Kennford, produced a sketch of the accident, made from evidence of the accident when he got there the same night. A blood mark, which he took to be the point of impact, was 120 ft. from the kerb. The width of the road at the spot was 39 ft., exclusive of paths. The point of impact was about 100 yards down the road from the R.A.C. box. The off front wheel of the car ran along the footpath for 45 ft. The car then came off the pavement and made a semi-circular course across the road. - MRS MIRIAM LAURA ANNING wife of MR FREDERICK JOHN ANNING, said she was riding pillion on the motor cycle. She saw the R.A.C. scout signal her husband forward. She was a motor cyclist herself. She did not consider the manner in which the sidecar was loaded affected the driving in any way. There was no actual pillion seat, but she was on a cushion jammed between the saddle and the rear mudguard. Before they saw the car they were across the road junction and in the straight on their correct side. She could see no reason why the car crossed the road on to its wrong side. "I think he (Mr Straight) lost his head," added the witness. - By Mr McGahey: A collision was almost avoided. - Elsie Holloway, of 45 High-street, Ilfracombe, cousin of the last witness, said she was sitting in the sidecar, with the deceased sitting on her lap. Witness could only see on her left side, and did not know there was anything wrong until the actual impact. - R.A.C. Scout's Evidence. - Maurice John Stacey, of 42 Laburnum-road, Exeter, an R.A.C. scout, stated that he saw three cars coming up the hill and the motor cycle combination coming down over Telegraph-hill. He waved the combination on and put out his hand to stop the cars. He did this because he received a signal from MR ANNING that he was going in the Exeter direction, but he received no signal from the cars. The cars did not stop. - The Coroner: What happened between the car and the combination before the collision took place? - Witness said the car came up pretty smart and seemed to zig-zag two or three times before the collision. The combination was travelling at about 25 miles an hour when it was in the straight. A back tyre of the car burst. The driver of the car applied his brakes 24 ft. before the impact. - Mr McGahey: What did you stop the up-coming traffic for? - Witness: Because I had a signal from MR ANNING but not from the up traffic. - I put it to you that you stopped the up-coming traffic because, unless you did so, and it was going up Haldon-hill, you thought MR ANNING might be put in jeopardy? - That is right. - The Coroner said he would now call the doctor, as he did not wish to detain him. - Dr Webster, Senior House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter hospital, said deceased was admitted suffering from extreme shock. Her injuries included a compound fracture of the left femur, a compound fracture of the left tibia, and wounds in each ankle. The cause of death early on Saturday was shock and infection by gangrene bacillus. - Eye-Witness' Accounts. - Frederick Galliver, of Coombe-street, Exeter, ice-cream salesman, said he was standing by the side of the R.A.C. box. He saw Stacey's signals. When the latter signalled the combination on, the other traffic was about 150 yards down the road. When about 15 to 20 yards away from the combination the car shot across to its wrong side. Witness saw the car zig-zagging. - Edward Ouzman, of Forest-road, Torquay, said he was driving a motor-cycle combination from Exeter to Torquay. Some distance from the bottom of Telegraph-hill he saw two motor cars ahead of him. Witness was eventually going up Telegraph-hill, but he stopped about 150 yards from the crossing. He saw the R.A.C. man signal something down Telegraph-hill, and then a motor-cycle combination came out and proceeded across the road. The car passed him when the combination was a little way down the road. After passing him the car went slightly to its off side, and the driver of the combination showed a tendency to pull slightly more to his own side. After running by the kerb, the combination drew out slightly to the centre. The car appeared to try and get back to its proper side. The driver of the car did his best to avoid a head-on collision, which he did. The impact was with the rear of the car. "I consider the collision was caused through his (Mr Straight's) foot being removed from the accelerator in order to ease up the speed." - Car Driver's Evidence. - Whitney Willard Straight, of Dartington Hall, Dartington, who elected to give evidence, said he was 17 years of age. He was driving a car to Totnes from Exeter. It was a 16 h.p. Alvis. He knew the road very well. As he approached the junction he knew there would be an R.A.C. Scout there. He saw the combination at the last moment, so to speak, just as it came around the corner. - The Coroner: Had you pulled out from your left-hand side to cross before you saw it? - Witness: Yes, in order to go up Haldon-hill. - Witness, proceeding, said he turned to his left, and at the same moment the motor cyclist turned to his right. Witness could see they were going straight for each other. - The Coroner: Did you both turn in the same direction on two occasions? - Witness said he thought that was what happened. He saw no sign from the Scout, and assumed the road was clear. When a collision looked probable both the car and the combination dodged. Witness was travelling at the time, at the most, at 40 miles an hour. He had been travelling faster. He changed gear to go up the hill. - In answer to Mr Cottey, witness admitted that he told MR ANNING immediately after the accident that he (witness) was in the wrong. - By Mr McGahey: He had been driving a car for some years and also flew an aeroplane. Nobody regretted the accident more than he did. - By the Deputy Chief Constable: His car was capable of travelling at 80 miles an hour. - The Verdict: The Jury returned a verdict that "Death was due to an Accident which might have been avoided with a little more care on both sides." - The Coroner said he agreed with the verdict, especially the observation in regard to a "little more care on both sides." - The proceedings lasted four hours.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 9 May 1930
KENTISBEARE - At an Inquest on RICHARD RUGG, an old-age pensioner, who was found dead with his head in a washing tub, a verdict of "Accidental Drowning" was returned. It is believed the deceased fainted while washing.

Western Times, Friday 9 May 1930 TORQUAY - Conflicting Evidence At A Torquay Inquest. - "Accidental Death" was the verdict returned at the resumed Inquest at Torquay Monday on DENNIS ARCHIBALD TWYFORD, aged 17 years, optician's apprentice, of Seaway-road, Paignton, who was killed in a motor car accident near Torre Station on April 12th. The Coroner, Mr E. Hutchings, remarked on the conflicting character of the evidence adduced, and mentioned that Miss Jean McKenna, who was also involved in the accident, had not been called, because, as a result of the injuries she received her mind was a blank as to what really occurred. Western Times, Friday 9 May 1930 NORTHWOOD, MIDDLESEX - Excess Of Aspirin. Devon Houseman's Death In Effort To Relieve Headache. - An excess of aspirin was declared by a doctor to have caused the death of MILDRED ELSIE CAUNTER, 30, of West Alvington, Kingsbridge, Devon, a housemaid at a preparatory school at Northwood, Middlesex, upon whom an Inquest was held at Northwood on Monday. - CAUNTER had told her mistress that she had taken a number of aspirin tablets - she could not remember how many - to relieve her headache. - A verdict of "Death by Misadventure" was returned.

Western Times, Friday 9 May 1930 STOKE CANON - "Found Drowned". Open Verdict At Stoke Canon Inquest. Printers' Reader's Death. - At the Inquest conducted by the Deputy District Coroner, Mr G. H. Stephens, at Stoke Canon, Wednesday, on the body of ERNEST DOVELL, reader, employed by the "Western Times" Co., Exeter, and whose body was recovered from the river Exe at Staffords Bridge on Tuesday evening by a search party of his firm, evidence of identification was given by FREDERICK JOHN DOVELL, 73 Holloway-street, Exeter, who said his brother was 36 years of age. When witness saw deceased about three weeks ago he seemed in normal health. Towards the end of 1928 deceased had an operation for the removal of a kidney, and had not seemed so well since. - Ernest George Turl, 98 East John-street, Exeter, linotype operator, with whom the deceased had been living for over three years, said the deceased enjoyed very good health prior to his operation. Recently he had not been so well, although being of a reserved disposition he never complained. - The Coroner: Has he seemed depressed? - Witness: No, but he seemed quieter. He always slept well, according to his own statement. - Continuing, witness said deceased never mentioned where he was going when he left the house on Monday evening. He did not return that night and witness became alarmed, his son communicating with the Police just after midnight. - Witness described how his son thought he saw the deceased in the neighbourhood of the golf links, Pennsylvania, on Monday night, and then related how two efforts were subsequently made to discover DOVELL. Last evening witness, as a member of a search party, found DOVELL in the river, caught in the fallen twigs of a tree. With assistance, deceased was taken from the water. - Questioned by the Coroner, witness said deceased made certain remarks which showed that he was worried because of the condition of his health. - Hilda Geice, of Magdalen-road, Exeter, said she had known the deceased for twelve years, and was engaged to be married to him. The wedding was to have taken place in June. She last saw the deceased on Sunday afternoon, when he seemed unwell. - Medical evidence, given by Dr Kingdom Frost, showed that death was due to drowning. - Returning an Open Verdict of "Found Drowned," the Deputy Coroner said in such a case it was not easy to show how deceased actually got into the water, and there was evidence which showed that he suffered from ill-health, which might have caused faintness.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 12 May 1930
EXETER- Prompt Stop. Coroner Commends Driver Of Lorry. A Haldon Accident. - At an Inquest at Exeter on Saturday on PERCIVAL EDWIN EDWORTHY, jobbing builder, of Hillside, Dunchideock, who died in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital from injuries received in collision on May 2nd on the road under Haldon Belvedere tower, the Exeter Deputy Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, commended the driver of a lorry involved in the collision. He said: "If everyone who drove a car or other mechanically-propelled vehicle stopped as promptly as Mr Hellier did many accidents might be avoided. I think you (the Jury) will agree with me that not only should no blame be attached to him, but that he acted in a prompt and efficient manner to endeavour to avoid danger. - Cecil Reginald Hellier, a haulier of 39 New-street, Chudleigh, said that on the morning of May 2nd he was driving to Dunchideock, after coming across by Haldon racecourse. When he had descended the hill to the flat he saw the combination approaching in the middle of the road. He thought EDWORTHY had lost control, as the front wheel wobbled, and the side-car wheel lifted. He pulled into the left and had almost stopped when the combination, approaching at a fast pace and still wobbling, crashed into the side of the lorry. Witness went into a house for assistance, obtained bandages, bound up EDWORTHY'S head and took him to the Hospital. He thought EDWORTHY had become nervous on seeing him at the bend, but considered also that the combination would have overturned at the spot had there been no other vehicle there. The brakes of the combination were not in good order. - Dr Wilkie, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said EDWORTHY was admitted suffering from wounds to the scalp and left eye-brow. The left eyeball was ruptured and there was fracture of the base of the skull and severe shock. He died on Friday from meningitis arising from the skull fracture. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" exonerating the lorry driver from blame. A Juror said the driver should be commended for his promptitude. - The Jury, and Mr McGahey, on behalf of Mr Hellier, expressed sympathy with the deceased's relatives.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 14 May 1930
EXETER - "Misadventure." An Overdose Of Luminal Tablets. Exonian's Death. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, resumed the Inquest yesterday concerning the death of MR FREDERICK KINGDON, retired cooper, of Trenarrow, West-avenue, Exeter, who died on April 13th. Mr M. J. McGahey was present on behalf of the widow and relatives. - MRS KINGDON said her husband had suffered from epilepsy for about 26 years. He had been taking Luminal tablets - one in the morning and one in the evening. Dr Thompson suggested doubling the dose, and her husband did so for three days up to the time of his death, although he did not like taking the tablets and said that the drugs did him no good. During all the 26 years he had been very brave and had not given any indication of wishing to take his life. - Dr Fayle Seale said he had attended deceased for two years, and had prescribed 1 ½ grains of Luminal morning and evening. It was possible that during one of the attacks he had taken more than the prescribed amount without knowing it. He was not the sort of man to take an overdose deliberately. - A certificate from Mr T. Tickle, Analyst, stated that there was sufficient Luminal in deceased's stomach to kill him. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Death by Misadventure," death resulting from an overdose of Luminal which deceased had Accidentally administered to himself.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 14 May 1930
EXETER - Honiton Fatality. Halted In Crossing The Street. Concussion Effects. - The adjourned Inquest on WALTER JAMES HOWARD, 63, boot and shoe maker, of Westleigh House, Honiton, who died in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on April 26th following injuries received in a motor cycling accident at Honiton on Easter Monday, was concluded last evening by the Deputy Exeter Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, who had the assistance of a Jury. - Mr M. J. McGahey (Exeter) represented the driver of the motor cycle involved, William James Watts, of 88 Victoria-avenue, Chard; and Mr R. B. Dunning (Honiton) appeared on behalf of deceased's relatives. - Edith Childs, West End, Honiton, said Watts was driving his machine on the correct side of the road. Deceased came out of the Volunteer Inn, and was crossing the road. Watts attempted to avoid deceased, and in doing so swerved very much, as if he had lost his nerve. - John Stone, Northcote-terrace, Honiton, estimated the motor cyclist's speed at 30 miles an hour, but did not see the deceased knocked down. - The Deputy Coroner: Are you a judge of speed? - Witness: No, sir, I'm not. - You said in your statement to the Police that the motor cyclist was going at a medium pace. Do you say 30 miles an hour is your conception of a medium pace in a main street? - Yes. - P.C. Pollard, Honiton, said there was a straight brake mark in the centre of the road to the point of impact and extending to about 28 ft. The distance from the mark to the off side of the road was 13 ft. and 29 ft. from the near side. Deceased was lying about two feet from the pavement on the off side, and the motor cyclist was also lying on the near side of the roadway. The only damage to the machine was a broken foot rest for the pillion rider. Its brakes were in perfect order. - By Mr McGahey: The braking marks started in the middle of the road. It was usual for vehicles going through the town to use the middle of the roadway. - Not Excessive. - By Mr Dunning: He did not think the speed of the motor cyclist was excessive. Watts was travelling at a medium pace - between 25 and 30 miles per hour. - The Deputy Coroner: I think that's a much more honest calculation than 15 miles an hour. - Joe Kenwood, High-street, Honiton, said deceased stepped off the path and into the roadway in a normal manner. Watts was travelling at a reasonable speed. - By Mr McGahey: It was an unavoidable accident. - Grace Connett, Combe Raleigh, deposed to seeing the motor cyclist swerve slightly as deceased hesitated near the middle of the road. If deceased had not "halted a step" in crossing she thought it probable Watts would have passed behind him. - Dr Wilkin, House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, attributed death to pneumonia following the injuries received in the accident. - By Mr McGahey: It was common for concussion to wipe out the memory of incidents immediately prior to concussion being sustained. - Watts said he had been with a pillion passenger to Torquay, which they left on the homeward journey at 6.50. He recollected reaching Honiton, but not accelerating to get up the hill at Honiton. He had no recollection of the actual accident. - By Mr Dunning: He had no recollection of telling anyone he left Torquay at 7.30. - Mr Dunning: I have it reported to me you did. - Witness: I don't think so. - Mr McGahey: May we have the name of this person. It is very common to "sling" statements of that sort about. - Mr Dunning: No, I'm not going to; and I'm not slinging anything about. (To witness): It has been reported to me that he has given his time of leaving Torquay as 7.30. - Witness: I don't think I have. - Perhaps you have forgotten that? - No, I haven't, because I haven't said it. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death", exonerated Watts from blame, and expressed sympathy with deceased's relatives.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 16 May 1930
OKEHAMPTON - Man Crushed. Northtawton Man's Accident At Okehampton. Inquest Verdict. - The adjourned inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of WILLIAM COLES, quarryman, of Northtawton, who was crushed beneath a ca\sting being hoisted on to a lorry at Okehampton on Saturday afternoon, resulted in a verdict of "Accidental Death." - The Inquiry was conducted by Mr H. C. Brown (Okehampton District Coroner), at the Town Hall, Okehampton, last evening. Mr W. G. C. Seager (Exeter) represented the Okehampton Brick and Stone Company, by whom deceased was employed, and Mr A. W. Fullwood (Okehampton) the deceased's relatives. Mr J. Chandler, Inspector of Factories (Plymouth), also attended. - Robert William Blackmore, 5 Hill View, Crediton-road, Okehampton, foreman of the Company, said there was a gang of five men engaged in moving a portion of brick-making machinery, weighing about a ton, by means of a tripod and pulley. The lifting capacity of the apparatus was five tons, while the poles would probably take ten tons. The casting was lifted about 18 inches from the ground and had to be eased because a bracket was projecting beyond the tail of the lorry on which the casting was to be placed. During the process of easing the whole lifting apparatus fell over. Deceased, with other men, was holding a rope to get the casting clear, and stumbled backwards, and the casting fell on deceased's chest and stomach. All the tackle was in order. - By the Inspector: Every care was taken to see that the span of the legs of the tripod was adequate. - By Mr Seager: Witness denied that the tripod was improperly erected, or that there was any negligence. - Robert Middleton, lorry driver of 69 Northfield-road, Okehampton, said the lorry was backed close to the casting, which had to be eased to clear the lorry. He was assisting the men to swing the casting, and nearly had it on himself. After the accident the casting was loaded on to the lorry with the same tackle. When the accident occurred the men were swinging the casting by pulling a rope, and during the process the tripod toppled over. - Mr Fullwood: If the lorry had not been backed quite so close to the casting everything might have been all right? - Witness: It is quite possible. - William Henry Passmore, haulage contractor, Okehampton, said the second casting subsequently loaded on the lorry was heavier than the first. - By Mr Seager: When the tripod was re-erected preparatory to getting the casting on the lorry one of the legs of the tripod was found to be on a soft spot and was shifted to firmer ground. - Sympathy was expressed with the relatives.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 20 May 1930
GITTISHAM - Body In River. Husband's Distressing Find Near Honiton. Inquest Evidence. - The East Devon Coroner, Mr C. N. Tweed, held an Inquest at the Smithy, Gittisham, yesterday morning, on ELLEN GALE, aged 59, wife of MR REGINALD ALFRED GALE, of Hill View, Honiton, whose body was recovered from the River Otter, near Clammer Bridge, in the parish of Gittisham, early on Sunday morning. - Mr T. J. Templeman (Exeter) appeared on behalf of the relatives. - Evidence of identification was given by deceased's husband, who said he last saw his wife alive about 2 p.m. on Saturday. She had mentioned in the morning that she would like to go out to Buckerell, taking the bus part way and walking home. He waited until 10 o'clock, when he made unsuccessful inquiries and informed the Police. He thought his wife might possibly have gone to visit her son at Parkstone. On Sunday morning, in company with MR FREDERICK WARREN, deceased's brother, he walked down the lane leading from Buckerell to Stocker's Farm in the direction of the river. On looking over the hedge they saw deceased in the water near the footbridge. On the bridge were a glass and a bottle nearly full of Lysol. Deceased's hat and shoes were on the bank, and her handbag was on the rail of the bridge. There was a note in the handbag addressed to witness, as follows:- "Dearest REG. - I must go; you have always been my true friend, and I am yours; I am all right." - Deceased was lying face downwards in the water. Witness informed the Police. Deceased went to the butcher's on Saturday morning, purchased meat for witness's dinner and cooked it. She appeared to be quite happy when last he saw her. - FREDERICK WARREN, of Hill View, Honiton, deceased's brother, said she had never threatened in his presence to take her life nor had she suggested it, not even when at one time she was unbalanced in her mind. She led, to witness's knowledge, a very happy life with her husband, but she was prone to worry over other family matters. - Dr J. E. Finlay, of Honiton, deposed that death was due to asphyxia caused by drowning, consequent upon the consumption of a fatal quantity of Lysol. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 20 May 1930
BIDEFORD - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned by the North Devon Coroner, Dr Ellis Pearson, at an Inquest at Bideford on MRS MARY ANN RICHARDS, aged 73, of Bideford, whose death occurred on Thursday night. Earlier in the evening MR W. RICHARDS said he and his wife went for a walk, and soon after 10 p.m. retired to bed. His wife became ill, and was in great pain. He sent for a doctor, but she died before he arrived. Dr R. E. S. Gibson said that death was due to shock, following perforation of an ulcer.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 20 May 1930
EXMOUTH - Exmouth Tragedy. Jury Recommend Widening Of Road. Driver Exonerated. - The Deputy East Devon Coroner, Mr B. R. Dunning, conducted an Inquest at the Court House, Exmouth, last night, into the circumstances surrounding the death of RUBY GWENDOLINE REYNOLDS, aged 5, of Park-road, Exmouth. The little girl died in the Cottage Hospital on Sunday morning from head injuries received when she was knocked down by a motor cycle combination driven by Mr E. D. Western, of Lackington Farm, Withycombe Raleigh, on Friday afternoon. - Mr P. T. Hurford was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MR WILLARD SCOTT REYNOLDS, 31 Park-road, painter, the father of the child, gave evidence of identification, and said she would have been six on the 28th of the present month. On Friday afternoon he at once went to the Hospital on hearing of the accident, but his daughter was unconscious. - Edward Daniel Western, aged 27, Lackington Farm, farmer, said about 1.30 on Friday, he was driving a 4 h.p. motor cycle attached to a milk float through the village of Withycombe Raleigh on his way home. His speed was only about 15 miles an hour. He saw a man on the road with a bicycle, and he sounded his horn and slowed down to pass him. The road at this point was 18 ft. wide. A little further on witness saw a number of children playing in the road, and he sounded his hooter, whereupon they all ran to one side. - Asked by the Coroner why there were so many as "about 20" children in the road, witness explained that the village school was very near. Continuing, witness said the children having cleared, he let go his clutch and was just about the pass them when one little girl ran out into his front wheel. She was knocked down, but none of the wheels went over her. He at once applied his brakes. Asked how quickly he pulled up, witness replied in about 30 feet. The Coroner asked why he had taken so long if his speed was only between 10 and 15 miles an hour. Western replied that after the children had gone to one side he accelerated to pass them. - The Coroner: Even so, I can't see why you took 30 feet to pull up. - Witness added that the child was taken to the Hospital in a passing car. - Answering Inspector Dart, witness said his brakes were in order, and he was going slightly uphill at the time. He could not tell why under these circumstances he should have taken 30 ft. in which to pull up. - The Inspector: When the child came out, did that for a moment make you lose your head? - Witness: I don't think so, sir. - Did you lose control of your machine just for a moment? - No, sir. - William Walter Waldron, 16, of 48 New-street, said he was riding a cycle through the village when the last witness passed him at a speed of about 10 miles an hour. He only saw one child on the side of the road and she seemed to wait until the combination got level with her, and then ran across into its front wheel. He heard Western sound his horn twice. Witness could not say why the girl ran across the road. He did not hear anyone call her, and she should have heard the noise of the machine if not the horn. - Dr L. R. G. de Glanville said deceased was admitted to the Hospital suffering from a fracture at the base of the skull and severe concussion. She died early on Sunday morning. - The Coroner said there was no evidence whatever of negligence on the part of the driver of the motor cycle. He seemed to have taken rather a long time to pull up, but he did not know that they could attach a great deal of importance to that except that it was rather a pointer towards speed. But even if Western had been going a little faster than he thought, he (the Coroner) was pretty sure it would not be negligence. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated Western from all blame. Through the Foreman, they expressed the opinion that the road at this point was bad, and needed widening, having regard to the fact that it was near a school and the amount of traffic on it. - The Coroner said he would send the recommendation to the proper quarter.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 20 May 1930
TIVERTON - "Pains In Head." Tragic Death Of Tiverton Woman. Inquest Story. - A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was recorded by the Tiverton Coroner, Mr F. R. D. Clutsom, at the Inquest yesterday on MISS ELIZABETH LETHBRIDGE, aged about 60, of Melbourne-street, Tiverton, who was found dead with gas tubing in her mouth on Sunday. - JANE LETHBRIDGE, sister, said that deceased was apparently in normal health on the previous evening at 7 o'clock. She lived alone, but witness saw her nearly every day. She had been depressed at times, and had done no work for two years because of her health, but had never given witness reason to fear that she would take her life. - Dr A. K. Hamilton said that he had attended the deceased constantly for over two years. Her health was not good; she suffered from a failing heart, and complained at various times of her nerves, but was not particularly depressed, and was able to get about and look after herself. On May 1st she had complained of pains in the head. On his arrival at the house between 11.30 and noon on Sunday morning she was dead, and he attributed death to gas poisoning. He did not consider the event surprising, as she had had a blood pressure, which might quite well have unbalanced her mind. - Albert Prescott, of 7 Melbourne-street, said that at 11.30 a.m. on Sunday he was called to the home of the deceased. A man inside the door told him he had got in through the window. He entered and found a strong smell of gas in the front room. Deceased was lying on her left side on the floor in front of the gas stove. The gas was turned on, but not lit, and a rubber tube from the stove was held in her left hand, and was in her mouth. She was quite still and he considered she was dead. The fur collar of deceased's coat covered her head and face. - P.C. Stevens spoke to applying artificial respiration with Chief Constable Beynon, without success. - The Coroner expressed sympathy with the relatives.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 21 May 1930
EXETER - Girl's Death. Deputy Coroner And An Exeter Tragedy. Dangerous Corner. - "This Burnt House-lane corner is a particularly dangerous one, not from the point of view of the position it is in, but from the fact that there is a new building estate there, and the fact that the buses stop and start there." - This remark was made by the Deputy Coroner for Exeter, Mr H. Linford Brown, in addressing the Jury in connection with the investigation yesterday of the circumstances attending the death of MURIEL FLORENCE WALLACE, aged 5, of 93 Briar-crescent, Burnt House-lane, Exeter. The little girl was the victim of a motoring accident on the Topsham-road last Thursday. - Mr A. Martin Alford (Exeter) appeared for Mrs McGahey (wife of Mr M. J. McGahey, a well-known Exeter solicitor), the driver of the car. - ALBERT FRANK WALLACE, College porter, father, said his daughter attended the Episcopal School, Mount Dinham, travelling to and fro by bus. On Thursday the girl left home at 1.20 to return to school by the 1.40 bus, leaving the Topsham-road corner of Burnt House-lane. The deceased's hearing and sight were good. - John Challice, architect, of Exeter, produced a plan of the junction of Burnt House-lane with Topsham-road. - John Cole, carter, of Countess Wear, said he was driving a pair of horses and waggon from Topsham-road into Burnt House-lane on Thursday. When opposite Millbrook-lane witness observed a motor car approaching from Exeter at a moderate speed and on the correct side of the road. There were seven or eight children waiting for the bus at the corner. Suddenly the deceased ran into the roadway from the Millbrook-lane side of Topsham-road. Witness saw the car strike the deceased and knock her down. It then pulled up. - By Mr Alford: The child practically ran straight in front of the car. - "Ran Straight Into Car." - Vivian Martin, aged 11, a companion of the deceased, said MURIEL ran into the roadway. As soon as she had been struck by the car it was pulled up. The driver of the car got out and went to the girl's assistance, offering to take her to Hospital. Witness also helped. - P.S. Norman gave evidence relating to certain marks on the roadway at the point of the accident, and added these showed the car to have been on its correct side. An examination of the car revealed the right-hand wing and a corner of the identification plate to be damaged. - Dr Wilkie, House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, attributed death to meningitis, following a fracture of the base of the skull. - Mrs Winifred McGahey, the driver of the car, said she was driving along Topsham-road at between 18 and 20 miles an hour. She knew the road well, and invariably gave warning on approaching Burnt House-lane because of the danger of children running into the roadway at that point. On Thursday there were a number of children at the corner of Burnt House-lane waiting for a bus. When she was half-way across the entrance to Burnt House-lane she saw a little girl run across Topsham-road from the direction of Millbrook-lane. Witness was keeping an eye on the children standing "on the very edge of the pavement" at the bottom of Burnt House-lane. Deceased ran as fast as she could "straight into the car." When witness saw the girl running she applied her brakes immediately, and with such force that her two children in the car with her were jerked off their seats. - The Deputy Coroner said there appeared to be little doubt that the deceased as much ran into the car as the car ran into her. There was no evidence of excessive speed. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added that no blame attached to the driver of the car. - Mr McGahey, on behalf of his wife, expressed sympathy with the parents of the deceased, adding that Mrs McGahey felt the loss as keenly as if it had been one of her own children. - The Deputy Coroner and Jury concurred.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 21 May 1930
ST MARYCHURCH - At an Inquest held by the County Coroner, Mr E. Hutchings, at the St Marychurch Town Hall, Torquay, yesterday, concerning the death of MISS WINIFRED ROWE, 47, music teacher, of Seacroft, Torquay, a verdict of death from heart failure whilst undergoing an operation was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 21 May 1930
TORQUAY - Cliff Fall. Torquay Lady's Sad End: "Will-power Gone." Cautious Coroner. - The body of MISS MARY JANE MORTIMORE, 64, of Happaway Farm, St Marychurch, Torquay, was discovered at the foot of a cliff in the neighbourhood of Watcombe Downs on Monday. It was discovered that she had fallen from a small plateau reached by a narrow sheep track. - At the Inquest conducted by Mr E. Hutchings, deceased's brother-in-law, GEORGE M. S. STRAWBRIDGE, said that she had stayed at his place a few nights. On Monday morning she was in bed asleep when he went downstairs, and half an hour later he found the bed was empty. Deceased left a note, which read:- "Dear Ellen, - My will-power is gone. I feel not responsible at times, so if anything happens it is for the best, and don't worry. I must make room for the young ones. - POLLY." - Continuing, witness said that he had heard deceased say that it was time she was out of the world, but he never took her seriously, especially as she would joke soon after saying it. - EMMA M. STRAWBRIDGE said that she had heard deceased say "I think I might as well make away with myself, as nobody wants me." - Douglas Clegg, of Finchley, a visitor to Babbacombe, said that he was walking along Watcombe Downs when he found a woman's cloak. He made a search at the bottom of the cliff and a woman's body was found. - Dr McCullum said that deceased's skull was severely fractured and also her left ankle. Her injuries were consistent with having fallen from the cliff. - It was stated that the cliff was about 100 feet, and that there was a steep drop of 80 feet. - The Coroner said that it looked like suicide, but he was not sure about it. It was not his business to jump to conclusions, and unless he had definite evidence that a person had deliberately taken his or her life he was not justified in saying it was suicide. This was a dangerous place, and the facts were consistent with an accident. - A verdict was returned that death was due to a fracture of the skull through falling over a cliff, but that there was no evidence to show the cause of the fall.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 27 May 1930
TIVERTON - Death Follows Fall. Tiverton Almshouse Inmate. - At an Inquest at Tiverton yesterday concerning the death of WILLIAM DALLY, aged 74, an inmate of Walrond's almshouses, Tiverton, Herbert Philip Walters, of Wellbrook-street, said that on Saturday he saw deceased suddenly turn round on the footpath and fall. He bled profusely from the head. - Dr Hamilton said that four stitches were inserted in the incised scalp wound caused by the accident. Death was due to myocarditis and pneumonia, accelerated by the injury and shock following the fall. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 28 May 1930
EXETER - Gas Poisoning. Exeter Widow's Death. - The Deputy Exeter Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, held an Inquest yesterday afternoon on NELLIE SALISBURY YOUNG, aged 45, of 13 Abbey-road, who was found dead in her house on Saturday. - THOMAS P. HALLAM, Abbey-road, Exeter, identified the body as that of his daughter, who was the widow of CECIL D. YOUNG, a draper's buyer. Deceased had been a widow for twelve months, and exceedingly depressed. To make a living she kept lodgers. Two left last Saturday, and this probably made her more distressed. - ERIC D. YOUNG, son of deceased, stated he went for an outing on Saturday and returned to the house shortly after 11 p.m. There was a very strong smell of gas, and his mother was lying on the floor of the scullery. All the taps of the stove were turned on and both doors were closed. His mother had been very depressed since his father's death. - William Ernest Goddings, of Monks-road, stated that he was at a house in Abbey-road when the last-named asked if the occupier would come to the house where he lived to see his mother. Deceased was lying on her stomach. She was carried to the garden, where artificial respiration was tried. - Dr T. M. Preece stated that death was due to asphyxia, owing to gas poisoning. - A verdict was returned of "Suicide while in an Unsound State of Mind."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 2 June 1930
SEATON AND BEER - "Let Me Drown!" Fisherman's Graphic Tale Of Struggle At Seaton. Inquest Opened. - How a fisherman's concern for the safety of what he supposed to be a swimmer in the sea off Seaton led to the discovery of two elderly ladies, one drowned and the other nearly exhausted, was told to the East Devon Coroner, Mr C. N. Tweed, at Seaton Town Hall on Saturday, at the Inquest on MISS ADELAIDE FANNY BAILEY, 71, of Campbell House, Seaton. The latter was taken from the sea early on Friday morning with her sister, MISS MINNIE BAILEY, 61, who is still alive. - Evidence of identification was given by ERNEST BAILEY, who described himself as an accountant. He handed his address to the Coroner in writing. He said the last time he saw deceased alive was in July, when she was in a normal condition. Her sister was also in normal health. - The Coroner: Had you any reason to suppose either of them intended committing suicide? - Witness: None whatever. Witness added that deceased was in no financial difficulties or trouble of any kind. She was not living in her own house. - Prompt Rescue Work. - William John Real, of 5 Manor-cottages, Seaton, said he was returning from fishing in a rowing boat, at 5.45 on Friday morning, with Harry Jones, Ronald Wilkins, and Thomas Newton, when he noticed what he supposed to be a girl swimming towards the shore, which was about 200 yards distant. "I said to Mr Wilkins," continued witness, "that girl must be mad being out so far on a morning like this with no help near." I said "pull the boat around; we will row out and see if the girl is in difficulties or no." On the way they noticed another object in the water, which Newton declared was a body. They rowed towards the person first noticed, and as witness was in the bow, he came alongside first and grabbed the woman under the arms. She was hauled aboard with the assistance of Wilkins. She appeared to be still swimming when taken from the water and shouted:- "Let me go - let me drown," and "What are you doing?" Witness said "I have got you," and held her until they reached Seaton. She was struggling violently all the time and throwing her arms about. - On the way back Newton and Jones pulled the other body on board. - The Coroner: What position was the body in? - Floating face downwards about one foot under water. Newton started artificial respiration and witness noticed a kind of green fluid flowing from the mouth. He signalled to two men ashore to obtain Police and medical assistance; and assisted in carrying MISS MINNIE BAILEY to her home. They had to tie her to the stretcher with a rope. - Screaming All The Time. - The Coroner: Did she appear to be out of her mind? - I don't think she was exactly right. She was screaming all the time. Witness agreed with the Coroner that it might merely have been hysterics. - Dr A. H. J. Smart, of Seaton, stated that when called at 6.15 he found life extinct in MISS ADELAIDE, but it was impossible to say how long she had been dead. There were no marks of violence on the body. The lips and face were congested, a frothy fluid was issuing from the mouth, and there was an absence of air in the lungs, pointing to death by drowning. The frothy fluid from the mouth proved that the deceased breathed while in the water. The green fluid referred to was, in his opinion, sea water and stomach contents. In reply to the Coroner, witness said MISS MINNIE BAILEY was quite incapable of conversing. - P.C. Rice said he examined deceased's clothing, but found no correspondence. The first time witness knew the deceased was on Thursday when he had occasion to speak to her about 2 p.m., when she appeared to be normal for a lady of 71. He saw her again at 5.30, when she was evidently normal. - The Coroner asked Dr Smart if he were attending MISS MINNIE BAILEY. Dr Smart replied in the negative, but said he was sure she was incapable of giving evidence that day. - The Coroner intimated that the identity having been established and the cause of death ascertained, the Inquest would be adjourned until noon on June 13th. It might then be necessary to make a further adjournment, but that would depend on the evidence forthcoming, and other proceedings would possibly be taken. Sufficient evidence had been taken to give an order for burial.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 3 June 1930
TEIGNMOUTH - Found Drowned. Teignmouth Visitor's Tragic End. Coroner's Comments. - Mr E. Hutchings, Coroner, conducted an Inquest at Teignmouth last night concerning the death of MISS EFFIE LAURA HEARD, aged 38, who resided with her brother, of Osborne Grove, Taunton, and whose body was found on the beach near Spray Point, Teignmouth, on Saturday afternoon. - MISS WINIFRED MARY HEARD, sister, 9 Powderham-terrace, Teignmouth, said deceased was on a visit to Teignmouth. She appeared in her usual state of health when she left at noon on Saturday for a walk along the sea front, accompanied by witness's terrier dog. The dog returned about 1 p.m. and witness then went along the sea wall to look for deceased and saw a Police Officer on the beach performing artificial respiration. She went to the spot and saw it was her sister who met with an accident some years ago which left her with a weak ankle. - Mrs G. Stannard, Spray Point Tea Gardens, said that two girls ran to her about 1 p.m. on Saturday and asked her if there was a man there and someone had fallen off the wall into the sea. When she got to the spot a gentleman in white dress ran down the slipway and pulled a body further up the beach. Witness went back to close the doors of her house and as a train was passing she made signals to the driver or fireman that something had happened on the beach and that assistance was required. She returned to the body again and the gentleman was then washing his hands and then joined his wife and walked back on the sea wall. The two girls who gave the alarm also walked away. - The Coroner: Did you have any conversation with the gentleman who pulled the body out of the water? - Witness: No. - P.C. Setters said he went to the spot as the result of a telephone message from the Stationmaster. He met two ladies and a gentleman on the wall, who told him a lady had been drowned and some men were endeavouring to get her round. He understood that the man who pulled the deceased from the water had just recovered from a serious operation. On reaching the deceased, witness started attempting to restore animation and was later joined by Inspector Willcocks and P.C. Phillips. A quantity of froth came from MISS HEARD'S mouth and nostrils and she appeared dead. Dr Kilpatrick on arrival, pronounced life extinct. - Dr D. Ross Kilpatrick said that as the result of a post mortem he found the lungs full of water. There were no external marks of violence. Death was due to suffocation through drowning. - Recording a verdict of "Found Drowned," the Coroner expressed sympathy with the relatives. There was no evidence of foul play or suicide, and he thought the fall was accidental. Mr Hutchings commented upon the conduct of the gentleman who pulled the deceased out of the water. To him it seemed extraordinary. He could have remained until the arrival of the Police. He did not know who it was, but he might have saved deceased's life. Mr Hutchings contrasted his action with that of Mrs Stannard, who, he said, acted with commendable promptitude in attracting the attention of the driver of the train. He also spoke in complimentary terms of the action of P.C. Setter, Inspector Willcocks, and P.C. Phillips.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 7 June 1930
TOTNES - Totnes Mystery. Boy's Discovery On Dart River Bank. Man's Strange Action. - The body of a man was discovered on a bank of the Dart at Totnes yesterday morning by a schoolboy. It had been left on the bank by the receding tide. The ankles and knees were fastened with wire. - At the Inquest yesterday John Kirk, 14, said he was on the river in a canoe, 50 yards above Heifers Tree, when a man in a boat going down the river shouted to him that there was the body of a man on the river bank. Witness went to the spot, and saw it was that of a man fully dressed. He landed and reported it to the Police. - The Deputy Coroner, Mr G. E. Windeatt said it was most extraordinary that an adult on the river should find it necessary to call the attention of a schoolboy to such a matter. - Dr W. Chapman said death was due to drowning, and that the body had been in the water about four hours. - P.C. Sanders said deceased was fully dressed and both legs were wired together at the ankles and knees. The man was from 60 to 65 years of age, about 5 ft. 7 ins. in height, medium build, round features, brown eyes, and grey hair, with trimmed sandy grey moustache and dark eyebrows. He was dressed in a blue serge jacket and two pairs of trousers, blue serge blazer, grey waistcoat, and black and white jumper. On him was a green baize case, which appeared to be a revolver case, containing a razor, and there was also a case with gold rimmed spectacles. - The Deputy Coroner said that as the deceased had not been identified he should adjourn the Inquiry to enable the Police to make the necessary investigations. Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 9 June 1930 TOTNES - River Dart Tragedy. Former Paignton Man. - The man found in the river Dart at Totnes on Friday morning has been found to be CHARLES WILLIAMS, 63, formerly of Paignton. He had been in Totnes Poor-law Institution. A verdict of "Suicide" was returned at the Inquest.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 11 June 1930
EXETER - Insect Bite. Londoner's Tragic Death On Devon Holiday. Inquest At Exeter. - A verdict of "Death from Misadventure" was returned at an Inquest held at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, on LEONARD ERNEST MATTHEWS, aged 20, of 35 Dovercourt-road, East Dulwich, London, who died at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital after being taken ill at Bradninch. - It was suggested by the doctor that a gnat bite was the primary cause of death. - ERNEST BRUCE MATTHEWS, a telegraph overseer, employed by the Central Telegraph Office, said his son was a telegraph engineer employed by the G.P.O. He left home on May 31st. to cycle to Devonshire. The cycle broke down and he travelled part of the way by train, arriving at Bradninch on June 1st. He was in good health, but if he were bitten by an insect it served him very badly. On June 8th witness was informed that his son had been taken ill, and he came to see him. When witness saw him he was unconscious. - Miss E. G. Hearn, of Pendennis, Bradninch, said MATTHEWS came to stay with her on June 1st. He seemed quite well and did not complain of feeling ill until a week afterwards. Then he remarked that the sore on his chin was troubling him. His chin was a little red, but it seemed nothing of which to take notice. He went to Cullompton the next day to see a doctor, who advised him to put hot fomentations on the sore. Later the same day witness sent for the doctor, as deceased seemed a little drowsy, and the doctor ordered him to the Hospital at once. MATTHEWS said he did not know how the sore came there. - Dr Webster, Senior House Surgeon, at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said when the man was admitted he was suffering from cellulitis of the face. This was probably the result of a bite by a gnat or similar insect. He died early yesterday morning. The cause of death was toxaemia due to cellulitis of the face, following the bite.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 12 June 1930
BICKLEIGH (NEAR TIVERTON) - Gallantry. Coroner's Tribute To Exeter Scout. Bathing Tragedy. - Tribute to the gallantry of the 15-year-old Exeter Boy Scout who attempted to save the life of his Assistant Scoutmaster was paid yesterday by the Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould, at an Inquest at Burne Farm, Bickleigh, concerning the death of EDWIN DANIEL JOHN HILL, 20, of the Heavitree Troop, and living at 79 Robert's-road, Larkbeare, Exeter. He was drowned in the river Exe at Burne while learning to swim. - Robert Darby, 15 of 34 Blackboy-road, Exeter, said that he and eleven other Scouts of the Heavitree Troop had camped in the neighbourhood over the weekend. All except deceased and himself left on Monday morning. On Tuesday morning deceased and witness went for a bathe in the river. Witness swam across the river to the Thorverton side, and HILL shouted that he was coming across too. He started swimming, said witness, and got into the centre of the river, when he shouted and sank. Witness dived to deceased and tried to drag him to the bank, but HILL was struggling, and dragged witness down. After letting him go, witness swam around for about two minutes and then went for help. Deceased had been learning to swim for some time, but could never manage it properly. - Norman Ridge, farmer, of Tray Mill, said he went into the water as far as he could stand against the current. - P.C. Venton, of Bickleigh, said he procured a boat and improvised a drag with poles and hooks. An hour and a half later he found the body at a spot where the water was between 11 and 12 feet deep. - Mr Ridge, recalled, said Darby told him he had dived in three or four times and he appeared to be practically exhausted. He very much wanted to go in again, but witness stopped him, as he was not in a fit condition, and could not possibly have done any good. - Dr Herriman, of Silverton, said death was due to drowning. - The Coroner said he was satisfied that deceased met his death accidentally, and everyone would desire to express sympathy with the relatives. "I should like to say," added the Coroner, "that Darby behaved in a very plucky manner, and showed great presence of mind. I think that his parents and the lads of the Troop to which he belongs can justifiably be very proud of him. He made a very gallant attempt at rescue, and to a Boy Scout the knowledge that he has done his duty is, in all probability, sufficient reward. But, under the circumstances, it is a case which I feel justified in bringing before the Royal Humane Society, and I hope they will make some recognition of his gallantry."

Western Times, Friday 13 June 1930 AWLISCOMBE - A Fatal Skid. Little Boy Killed Near Honiton. The Jury's Rider. - Recommendations that certain measures be taken for rendering the Exeter - Honiton road at Weston safer for motorists were made by the Jury at an Inquest conducted by Mr C. N. Tweed, Coroner for East Devon, at Weston, on Tuesday, concerning the death of STANLEY GEORGE MULLINS, aged 6, of Weston. The lad died on Sunday from injuries received when he was knocked down the previous day by a motor car. - BESSIE MULLINS, of Hamlet Cottages, Weston, mother of the deceased, said the boy went out in the road to play with some children at 1 p.m. on Saturday. Just before 2 o'clock, witness heard the noise of a motor car, and on going out to look, saw a car in the hedge on the Exeter side of her house. A man approached carrying her son unconscious. He asked witness if it was her boy and witness said it was and took him in the house. - Edgar Gordon Loveridge, aged 15, a gardener, of Hamlet's Cottages, Weston, said he saw deceased run into his house about 1.40 on Saturday. Witness set off on a bicycle towards Honiton and met a car going in the direction of Exeter. Witness had no experience of motor cars, but estimated the speed of this car at 45 miles an hour. It was the first of a string of cars. After it had passed, witness heard brakes applied, and looking round, saw the car skid across the road and hit the hedge. Returning, witness was told by the driver that he had knocked a boy down. Witness could not see a boy under the car, but searching further, found STANLEY MULLINS in the ditch on the Exeter side of the road. The driver of the car picked the boy up and took him to his mother. - Examined by Mr S. Ernest Crosse (Exeter) who appeared for the driver, witness said he was not far away when he heard the collision. Two of the following cars pulled up without colliding. - William Arthur Poucher, of Jungfrau, Ewell, Surrey, a consulting chemist, the driver of the car, elected to give evidence. He said he was approaching Weston en route for Exeter, on Saturday, when a child suddenly, and without looking, ran across the road, hesitated and then ran on. Witness was about 20 or 30 feet away from the boy when he first sighted him. Witness immediately applied his brakes and swerved to the left, but the boy disappeared under the bonnet of the car and witness collided with the hedge. The child was apparently carried into the ditch by the buffers of the car. Witness was travelling at not more than 35 miles an hour. He had been driving for five or six years, having covered 50,000 miles in the London suburbs, and had never had an accident before. He was certain that he skidded or he would have pulled up in 75 feet. The surface of the road was semi-liquid from the heat. - George Richard Grosvenor, bank accountant, of New Malden, Surrey, who was in a tri-car on the Honiton side of Weston, said he saw Poucher's car pass at 35 miles an hour. He saw the car skid with the rear wheels locked. There was nothing to attract attention in the way the car passed him. - Dr D. Steele Perkins, of Honiton, said he found deceased had a fractured skull. He intended removing him to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital and ordered an ambulance, but the child developed convulsions and the arrangement was cancelled. Witness had three nurses to assist him during the convulsions, which grew worse until the child died on Sunday morning. Death was due to fracture of the skull and laceration of the brain. - P.C. Climo gave evidence as to the road. - Arthur Percy Moor, garage proprietor, of Honiton, said he had seen the skid marks and judged that the car could have pulled up much sooner if it had not skidded. - After a lengthy deliberation, the Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence and exonerated the driver from all blame. - The Jury added a rider that danger signs should be erected on each side of the turning, and that the ditch should be filled up on the nearside; also that the grass at the bottom of Hayne-lane should be kept clear. - The Coroner, Jury and driver joined in expressions of sympathy with the parents.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 14 June 1930
SEATON - Fantastic Delusions. Television And Threat Of Bolsheviks. Seaton Tragedy. - "This is one of the most extraordinary cases it has ever been my lot to investigate," declared Mr C. N. Tweed, East Devon Coroner, who resumed at Seaton yesterday the Inquest on ADELAIDE FANNY BAILEY, 71, of Seaton, who was drowned in the sea on May 30th. - At the opening of the Inquest on May 31st William John Read described how he and two companions rescued from the sea the deceased's sister, CONSTANCE MINNIE BAILEY, who had cried, "Let me go; let me drown" and "What are you doing?" The body of the deceased was recovered later by Mr Reed and his companions. MISS CONSTANCE MINNIE BAILEY had had to be tied with rope to a stretcher on being landed, owning to her struggles. - Yesterday, Mr Harold Salt, a Bournemouth solicitor, represented MISS CONSTANCE MINNIE BAILEY and other relatives of the deceased. Mr F. L. Baker was Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner said that, since the previous hearing, MISS MINNIE BAILEY had been placed in Exminster Asylum. - William Mitchell, Stationmaster at Seaton, said that on May 29th the deceased and her sister interviewed him at the Station. Most of the conversation was carried on between him and MISS CONSTANCE MINNIE BAILEY, who asked for a ticket - without paying the money - for her sister, whom she wished to go to Surbiton. Witness asked her why, and she replied: "I am expecting the Police to take me to Exeter to stand a trial." She had talked a lot about television, also about things people said about her. "There was no sense at all in what she said," added witness, who said he considered the lady was not normal. - The deceased's sister had said, in regard to the conversation about television, "I sat two hours last night passing it on to my sister." The deceased said she had not heard it, and that she was "the medium." Witness concluded that the deceased also was not quite normal, but was not, apparently, in the same state of delusion as the other sister. He sent for the Police. - By Mr Salt: He considered deceased not normal because of her statement of passing on television to her sister. He did not think she was humouring her sister. - By P.S. Wonnacott: The deceased seemed normal on her return later for luggage. - "Television Warning." - P.C. Rice said that on Thursday, May 29th, at 2 p.m., in consequence of information from the Stationmaster, he went to the Railway Station, where he saw the deceased and her sister. - As soon as the sister saw him she said, "I have been expecting you. Have you got your handcuffs? I have to be arrested, taken to prison, tortured, and then deported. I know it has to come. I hear it. I have been warned for three weeks by television. I hear it, and then my sister hears it after it has passed through me." - Witness said, "Don't worry, Miss. You had better come to the Station with me, and I will see whether I can put a stop to this television for you." At this point she appeared to be relieved and was prepared to accompany witness to the Police Station. The deceased was present the whole time and appeared worried, but normal for a lady 71 years of age. As CONSTANCE and witness were about to leave the Railway Station, the deceased wanted to remain behind and look after the luggage, but witness advised her to come with CONSTANCE and himself, and she did so. They accompanied him to the Police Station, where they were seen by Sergt. Wonnacott, who, after consultation with them, telephoned to the Relieving Officer at Axminster. As a result the sisters were seen subsequently by Dr Tonge, of Beer, who remained with them until about 9 p.m., and on leaving asked witness to see that the MISSES BAILEY went home safely. Witness did so. The doctor handed to witness a note which he understood contained a prescription to be given to the District Nurse, and asked him to tell the nurse to administer it at 9 p.m. He did so. On going to the Railway Station to get MISS BAILEY'S luggage taken to her home, he met the deceased near the Beach Hotel and asked her where she had been. She replied, "At the Station for my luggage." Witness said he would have seen to that, adding, "You go home, there's a good woman, and look after your sister." At about 6 a.m. on May 30th he went to the foreshore, where he saw CONSTANCE being held by one of the fishermen. The deceased was lying in a boat and had been examined by Dr Smart, who had pronounced life extinct. CONSTANCE was removed to her home and deceased was taken to the mortuary. Witness searched the ladies' clothing but found no correspondence. He found no marks of violence on the body of the deceased. - Later that day, CONSTANCE said to him, "I wish I was dead, Sergeant. The evidence is very strong against me. You have got the bottle, haven't you?" Witness had searched for bottles, but had found none containing poison. When taken from the sea CONSTANCE was holding a bag containing £1 1s. 10d. - By Mr Smart: The deceased was quite normal. - Dr Edward Tonge, of Beer, said that on receipt of a message at 3.15 p.m. on May 29th he went to the Police Station, where he saw the two ladies, who were well known to him. They had been patients 3 ½ years ago and he had then amputated a portion of the deceased's foot on account of diseased bone. MISS CONSTANCE had made many rambling statements about television, and had wanted to get away from Seaton. Her statements had been so erratic that he had had a quarter of an hour's chat with the deceased in another room. The deceased had then been absolutely normal, and there had not been the slightest evidence of anything wrong with her. She had explained the point very carefully. - She had been acting as medium to keep her sister more or less quiet. Her sister had been suffering from delusions for two or three years, and had been erratic ever since he had known her. - The deceased had explained that her sister had got into that state because of trouble with her eyesight. She had seen an Exeter doctor, who pronounced one eye to be blind and the other going blind. There was practically a cataract and there would have had to be an operation sooner or later. Probably that had preyed on her mind. - Rational Letter. - The doctor said a letter was written to him by the deceased the day before her death. It had been neither signed nor posted, but the Police had delivered it to him. In it she explained that her sister had suffered from pains at the back of the head, and had twice fallen and become unconscious. That had decided the deceased to obtain medical help. It was an absolutely terrible letter. - She had also told witness that her sister had had from the Income-tax people a letter which had frightened her very much. It had threatened her with imprisonment because she had not paid house duty. - He did not think such a letter from the Income-tax people had been traced, but the deceased had been very emphatic as to the fright of her sister that she would be arrested. Her sister was anxious to go to London to find out why she was being threatened. He believed it had since been ascertained that she was not responsible for house duty. - The deceased had also told him that her sister had read a good deal about Russia, and was very anxious to get her (the deceased) out of harm's way. The sister had read a lot about the ill-treatment of women in Russia, and had the delusion that she (the deceased) was going to be seized by the Bolsheviks and put into a house of ill-fame. She had attributed her knowledge of that danger to television. - By the Coroner: From his conversation with CONSTANCE, he was not prepared at that time to certify her as insane. She had had curious delusions, but could answer questions normally. Later, she developed acute meningitis and was now very ill. - Amazing Statement. - After CONSTANCE had been rescued and had had twelve hours' sleep, she had said to him that in the morning she had known she was under arrest and that there was no hope of getting out of Seaton, or that her sister could escape from being put by the Bolsheviks into a house of ill-fame. She had not decided whether to end her life in the river or in the sea, but had not spoken of that to her sister until they were on the shore. - She had then said: "There is no hope whatever. We have to end our lives to escape Bolsheviks." - "I went into the sea," CONSTANCE had told me, "and my sister pleaded with me, 'come back, the home is a happy one. There are other alternatives.'" I said 'There is no hope,' and went into the sea, my sister still holding my arm, and saying 'Do not go into the sea.' Then I swam out." Witness was of opinion that the statement could be believed. He had prescribed for her. - By Mr Salt: He was absolutely satisfied that CONSTANCE intended to commit suicide, and that her deceased's sister was drowned while trying to save her. There was nothing whatever to indicate a suicide pact. - By Sergt. Wonnacott: CONSTANCE was insane when she made the statements, but many of them had been verified. That was often the case with insane persons. - Alice Maud Richards, District Nurse, of 38 Fore-street, Seaton, who took the doctor's prescription to the chemist, said she noticed nothing abnormal about the sisters. - Mary Parkinson, night nurse, said that CONSTANCE had told her how she had been to the river, but that there was not enough water there. She had walked into the sea and swam so many yards, and had seen skirts and petticoats floating about, and had wondered if they belonged to her sister. Witness added that CONSTANCE had made many statements, and it was impossible to rely on anything she said. - P.S. Wonnacott deposed to telegraphing for relatives of the sisters. - The Coroner, reviewing the evidence, said the Stationmaster had acted very properly in sending for the Police and P.C. Rice had shown considerable tact. As it turned out, it was unfortunate that Dr Tonge had not been able to certify CONSTANCE, for then that catastrophe might not have occurred. But he did not think they could blame him, as no one could foresee what would happen. There was no doubt that the sister since certified had intended to commit suicide. Indicating five possible verdicts, the Coroner thought the Jury could rule out theories of a suicide pact, of death through being forced into the water by the sister (rendering the latter liable to a charge of murder), and of suicide on her own account. If the deceased went in to save her sister, she did a heroic thing, and it would not be right to return an open verdict which would stigmatise her as a possible suicide. He commended the Jury the merciful verdict of "Accidental Death," to which the evidence strongly pointed. - After a brief retirement, the Jury returned a verdict to that effect. - Mr Salt, on behalf of the relatives thanked the fishermen, Police and Coroner.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 16 June 1930
TORQUAY - Fatal Trip. - "Death from Misadventure" was the verdict returned at an Inquest on THOMAS HENRY HUTCHINGS, 77, a retired painter, of Dartmouth, who died from injuries sustained when he tripped over a boat mooring on Torquay Pier. 

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 17 June 1930
DAWLISH - "Found Drowned." Inquest On Exmouth Woman. - A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned by the South Devon Coroner, Mr E. Hutchings, at the Inquest at Dawlish yesterday on MRS LOUISA ELIZABETH PHILLIPS, aged 69, of Tower-hill, Exmouth. Deceased's body was discovered on Friday morning near Dawlish Warren Station by the Stationmaster, Mr George Henry Tarr. In evidence, Mr Tarr said a fireman on a morning train told him that he thought he had seen a body near the railway, and witness investigated. - The :Coroner expressed his appreciation of the fireman's promptitude in giving information, and also thanked Mr Tarr. - Dr H. O. Martin said he held a post-mortem examination and found that death was due to drowning. - The Coroner observed that a sister-in-law had said that deceased complained of pains in the side. Did witness see any signs of disease of the heart? - Witness: None. - It might have been indigestion? - Most probably. - Evidence of identification was given by MRS LILIAN EMMA BLACKMORE of 13 Tower-street, Exmouth, a sister-in-law. Witness said deceased lost her husband about eight months ago. On Thursday witness had been for a walk with her husband and returned at about 8.45 p.m. Deceased, who lived in the same house, had written on a slate: "Gone to bed; good night - LOU." Witness went to her bedroom and saw her there. She seemed to be her usual self, and witness did not see her again that night. On Friday she went to her sister-in-law's room at about 7 o'clock, but she was not there, though the bed had, apparently, been slept in. She went to each room in the house and finally went out to try and find her, subsequently informing the Police. - The Coroner: Has she ever said anything to you to lead you to believe she would do harm to herself? - No, sir. She grieved at the death of her husband, but had no other worries, continued witness. "She had been to a dressmaker and asked her to bring patterns for a new dress. I think it was last week." Deceased's fur and hat were found in an Exmouth boatman's boat. - Answering Inspector Willcocks, witness said deceased complained of a pain in her left arm and said it was going down her side. Witness asked her to see a doctor, but she would not. She had complained to a friend that the pain she was in was as much as she could bear. She had not been sleeping well since her husband's death. - Evidence was also given by P.C. Sheppard, who said deceased had been dead some hours when found.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 17 June 1930
EXETER - Death Under Anaesthetic. Man Kept Alive After Heart Stopped. Exeter Inquest. - A remarkable instance of sustaining life after the heart had ceased functioning was revealed at an Inquest conducted by Mr H. Linford Brown, Deputy City Coroner, at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, on ALBERT CHARLES MALLETT, of 1 Victoria-cottages, Commercial-road. Deceased died in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on Friday evening prior to an operation for the relief of a tumour on the palate. Dr Webster stated that when the heart failed after administering the anaesthetic, he and Dr Miller Muir made an incision and massaged the heart for 40 minutes to keep life in the body. - ALICE MAUD PAPE, of 28 Shaftesbury-road, St Thomas, identified the body as that of her brother, a chauffeur, aged 45. He was married. He had had an operation and was going to have another. - Dr Webster (Senior House Surgeon) said deceased was admitted to Hospital on May 28th suffering from a tumour of the palate. On May 30th he had an operation, a portion of the growth being removed for microscopic examination. Gas was used as an anaesthetic. It was ascertained that deceased was suffering from cancer. He went out on June 7th and re-entered for an operation on June 12th. An operation was intended last Friday. Witness started administering the anaesthetic just before 6 o'clock on that day, witness being quite satisfied that deceased could stand it. Owing to the nature of the operation pure chloroform had to be used. Just prior to the operation the heart stopped. Artificial respiration had no result and deceased was pronounced dead at 6.40. Death was due to syncope following the administration of the chloroform. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," death being due to an anaesthetic properly administered for the purpose of a very necessary operation.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 17 June 1930
EXETER - Road Smash. Curious Story At Inquest On Exeter Victim. An Ottery Visit. - An Inquest was conducted by Mr H. Linford Brown, Deputy City Coroner, at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, concerning the death of DAISY MAUD WIDGERY, of 88 Portland-street, Exeter. Allegations of an intrigue between the deceased and another man living at Ottery St Mary were made by the husband. - HENRY HUGH WIDGERY, furniture remover, identified the body as that of his wife, aged 37. She returned home on May 23rd at one o'clock in the morning, when she said she had met with an accident on the main Honiton-Axminster road, when the car in which she was riding skidded and threw her out. She had received first-aid at a cottage off the main road, and was a mass of bruises on the left side, but did not have medical advice until June 2nd as the bruises disappeared very quickly. During the interval she complained of pains. On June 5th an operation was performed at the house. Deceased did not progress and was removed to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on June 11th. Witness understood that his wife was travelling with a woman friend and her husband back from Axminster. - Questioned by Mr M. J. McGahey, who appeared on his behalf, witness said he was married in 1914 and there were four children, the youngest being about five years. He was very happy until a year ago. His work took him away from home several days at a time. - Further questioned, witness admitted that a number of letters addressed to his wife had been found under the linoleum and various places in his house. Some of them were addressed to Mrs V. Symes, deceased's sister, who was living at 88 Portland-street, apart from her husband. - Buried In Bank. - VIOLET SYMES said she and deceased did not go for a drive, but were picked up in a motor van at Ottery St Mary by a Mr Whitwell, who lived there. Witness knew him slightly. She and her sister had gone to Ottery St Mary by bus on the previous day for a dance at the Church Institute. When the van reached the junction of the main Exeter-Honiton road witness felt it rock from side to side, and then it collided with the bank. She found that Whitwell had run into the bank in endeavouring to avoid another car. Deceased, who was sitting by the driver, had vanished, and witness heard her calling "Get me out; get me out." Witness thought she was under the car, but found her half buried in the bank. Another car came along and aid was rendered. She was bruised and felt shaky for some days. - In reply to Mr McGahey as to the letters found, witness said she was away for five months. It was possible that deceased used her name as a cover. - At this point Mr McGahey rebuked witness for being casual, and reminded her that her sister was dead. - Witness replied, "Yes, I know, and all this can't do much good." Witness denied knowledge of a man named Billy mentioned in the letters. She also denied going to Ottery on purpose to meet Whitwell. The accident occurred about two or three o'clock in the afternoon. Whitwell was perfectly sober. - Mr McGahey: Deceased in a letter said the accident occurred at 11 p.m. - Witness: I am sorry to say that is not true. She did not know where deceased was between the afternoon and the time when her husband saw her. Replying to a question from the Jury, witness said they took single tickets to Ottery. The arrangement for the return journey did not mature, and they stayed the night in an Hotel. - Asked to look at the letters, witness said she might have seen one or two. - James George Whitwell, bailiff, of Ottery, elected to give evidence. He said he picked up the deceased and the previous witness about 1.30 at an Ottery garage. He intended going to Whimple on the way to Exeter. He pulled up on nearing the main road and sounded his horn, but got no response. When he got on the main road he saw a car approaching from Honiton and accelerated to cross the road. He swerved to avoid a telegraph pole, but hit it with the rear of the car. MRS WIDGERY vanished out of the door and was unconscious when picked up by witness. He repaired the car temporarily and proceeded to Exeter, where deceased seemed "very well, considering." She had cuts on the face and bad bruises. They arrived in Exeter about 5 o'clock. - By Mr McGahey: I have known deceased about 15 months, that she was married and had children. I had never seen her husband. - Mr McGahey: And you write her "My Darling D----"? - Yes. - By your expressions your relationships were very, very familiar? - Yes. - You have slept with her in places at night? - No. - Mr McGahey read an extract from a letter attributed to Whitwell: "How are you feeling after that lovely hectic night? There was only one thing wrong - that I could not have you in my arms in the morning." - Dr N. D. Gerrish, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased was admitted on June 9th suffering from toxaemia and died on the 12th. A post-mortem examination revealed three packets in the spleen, around which an abscess had formed. He could not say that death was due to the accident or to an operation for abortion performed previously. - Summing up, the Coroner said if death was due to the accident the verdict should be "Accidental Death," but if there was any doubt it was a case of "Natural Causes." He pointed out that it was not a Court of Law to deal with the moral aspect of the case. - The Jury returned a verdict that death was due to "Natural Causes."

Western Times, Friday 20 June 1930 TOPSHAM - Exeter Canal Tragedy. Sad Death Of Young Married Woman. Victim Of Depression. - The circumstances surrounding the death of MRS GLADYS IRENE HANNAFORD, aged 24 years, of 22 Smythen-street, Exeter, whose body was recovered from the Canal early Wednesday morning, were investigated at an Inquest at Double Locks Hotel, Countess Wear, yesterday morning by the District Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould. - CLARENCE VIVIAN HANNAFORD, of 22 Smythen-street, Exeter, husband of deceased said he last saw her alive at 4 o'clock yesterday morning. She often used to start a row, and at one a.m. she went downstairs, because he (witness) had told her to let him go to sleep. She had often "been a bit strange." - Awakening at three a.m. he discovered his wife was not in bed, and after a time he got up and went downstairs. There was a padlock on the passage door which he forced with a piece of iron and then tried to get deceased to come back to bed. She was lying down on the sofa and was fully awake. She replied "I'm all right. You go to bed." - Witness returned to the bedroom and came down again, between 6.30 and 7.30, when he found deceased had gone out. She had left the bedroom in this manner on several previous occasions. There was no cause whatever for her behaviour. They had not quarrelled that night, although they had a "tiff" occasionally. Deceased was very often depressed. She was expecting a child shortly. - By the Coroner: Had you to vacate your house? - Witness replied they were leaving on their own accord on Saturday, and his wife was pleased at the thought of going. She had always suffered from nerves and her depression was accentuated recently. When he found she was missing he waited for some time, as it was quite usual for her to go off, but subsequently reported the matter to the Police. She had had a child before. - By the Coroner: Had deceased ever spoken of suicide? - Never. - Mrs Ellen Lavinia Bennellick, of Spring Gardens, St Thomas, said about 6 o'clock on Wednesday, she saw the deceased standing by the side of her door, gazing into the water. She remained there for about five minutes. She was crying bitterly and when asked what was the matter did not reply. She then hurried along to Mitchell's Gardens, and remained there also for about five minutes. She looked around to see if witness was watching her. She observed deceased hurry along, so went towards her, but she went on down the banks. - Samuel Howells, of 10 Dean-street, Larkbeare, Exeter, labourer, stated that deceased passed at 6.45 yesterday morning. She was on the right-hand side going down the canal, about two hundred yards below Spring Gardens. Deceased passed him and he said: "Good morning, ma'am, a very nice morning?" She replied in a very low voice and went on towards Double Locks. He was subsequently informed that she had been recovered from the water, and identified her immediately as the woman he had seen. - Thomas Shorland, of the Drawbridge, Countess Wear, a canal employee, said he was walking on the left bank towards Exeter, at 7 o'clock, yesterday morning. He saw the deceased about six feet from the bank in the water. She was lying face downwards and showed no signs of life whatever. She was floating on the surface. With Howell's assistance he recovered the body. He tried artificial respiration, but to no avail. - Dr Black stated that he had examined the body and found that deceased would shortly give birth to a child. In his opinion she met her death by drowning, accelerated by her condition. She had not been in the water long. He considered her condition would have caused her to lose consciousness immediately on entering the water. - The Coroner stated that there was every evidence to show that deceased was not in her right mind. He considered she was suffering from some form of mental derangement, probably due to depression. A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 21 June 1930
EXETER - An Inquest on the infant male child of VIOLET BREALEY, 23, single, employed at Heavitree, was opened at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday and adjourned for three weeks.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 21 June 1930
TOTNES - Child's Death. Totnes Inquest Opened. - At Totnes Guildhall last evening Mr Ernest Hutchings, County Coroner, held an Inquest touching the death of the newly-born female child of ELIZABETH DEWAR, which was found in a pail at Lutton House, South Brent. Only evidence of identification was taken as the mother was unable to attend. - Jean Gertrude Marrion, of Highland-terrace, South Brent, District Nurse, said she found the child in a pail. She identified the infant as that of ELIZABETH DEWAR, a cook at Lutton House. - The Inquest was adjourned until July 11th.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 24 June 1930
BEAWORTHY - Beaworthy Tragedy. Inquest Story. - Mr H. C. Brown, Coroner for the Okehampton District, held an Inquest yesterday concerning the death of DANIEL PETHERICK HUTCHINGS, of Town Barton Farm, Beaworthy, who was found hanging in a shed. - MR A. S. HUTCHINGS, of Town Farm, Beaworthy (brother) identified the body, and said deceased was a widower, his wife having died in November. Witness saw him alive on Saturday and had a talk with him about business. There seemed nothing wrong with him then, and they were great friends. He made no complaint about his health, although some time since his wife's death he had been a bit depressed. He never said anything about taking his life. Two letters produced were in deceased's handwriting. - Daniel Balsdon, of Town Farm, Beaworthy, said he was called by Miss Adams, deceased's housekeeper. He went with his son to a shed and found deceased hanging from a cross beam, and his feet touching the ground. He was dead. Witness had noticed that he was depressed. He knew of his complaint and on Thursday told him it was a small thing, and tried to cheer him up. - Miss Adams, housekeeper, said she had been living at Town Barton as deceased's housekeeper. She saw him at 8 o'clock on Saturday evening and he passed a remark about the weather. Later, as she could not find him in the yard, she went to the shed, and found him hanging. She knew of no reason for his act. He seemed happy at home. He had mentioned an operation and worried about it. "We were engaged to be married," added witness, "but no date had been fixed. He was quite happy about that." - Dr R. C. Worsley (Black Torrington) said death was due to strangulation by hanging. Deceased was suffering from an affection, but there was nothing serious or anything to worry about. He seemed over anxious about his condition and witness told him a small operation would put him right. A complaint such as he had would tend to depress the mind. - A verdict was returned that "Death was due to Asphyxia, caused by deceased hanging himself while in an Unsound State of Mind."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 25 June 1930
EXMOUTH - Fall Over Cliff. Coroner And An Exmouth Tragedy. Open Verdict. - Mr G. H. Stephens, of Exeter, deputising for the East Devon Coroner, Mr C. N. Tweed, held an Inquest at Exmouth last night concerning the death of RICHARD REED, single, aged 39, of 4 Point-terrace, Exmouth, Assistant Preventive Officer, H.M. Customs, whose body was found at the foot of the cliffs near Orcombe Point on Monday afternoon. - REGINALD WILLIAM REED, Shirehampton, Bristol, shipping clerk, gave evidence of identification. He said he last saw his brother alive on June 2nd. His health was good, with the exception of bad hearing. So far as witness knew he had nothing to worry him. He had never heard his brother threaten to take his life. - Mrs F. E. Gronberg, of 4 Point-terrace, Exmouth, with whom deceased lodged, said he had been with her for two years and a half. His health was good. She last saw him alive at 11.30 on Monday morning. He had been on night duty, returning home about 6 a.m. and going to bed about 6.45. He got up again at 11 a.m. This was his custom, although he might sometimes stay in bed until dinner time. Deceased went out without saying where he was going, but he was in the habit of walking to Orcombe Point. So far as she knew he had nothing to worry him. Deceased remarked, "So long" to her as he went out of the house. - Miss Beatrice Searle, 25 Union-street, Exmouth, said she knew the deceased and saw him on Monday by the Clock Tower at 12.15 p.m. He was going towards Orcombe Point, and said "Good morning" to witness. She noticed nothing unusual in his manner. - Richard William Searle, Rose Lawn, Capel's-lane, Littleham, who said he knew deceased very well, spoke to finding the body. It was evident that deceased had fallen over the cliff and he was so badly injured as to be almost unrecognisable. Subsequently he went to the top of the cliff, which he should judge was about 250 ft., and was able to find the spot where deceased went over. At that point the public path was about 25 to 30 feet from the edge of the cliff. He had seen people looking over the cliff. Some would sit on the edge and dangle their feet over. - Horace Tait, Bellevue-road, Exmouth. H.M. Officer in charge of Customs, said that deceased was employed as a Customs official. He had only known him about three months and last saw him alive on Sunday about 4 p.m. Deceased left at 6 p.m. and resumed again at 11.30 p.m., staying until 7.30 a.m. He would be entitled to go home at any time suiting himself for refreshments. He had no official worries of any kind, but witness had received a complaint concerning his private conduct and conveyed it to him on Saturday. So far as he knew, however, it had not affected him. - Dr D. L. H. Moore said there was deep bruising of the right leg and thigh, abrasions of the hands and a large depressed fracture of the skull. The injury to the head indicated a fall with great violence against something soft, such as sand or clay. - The Coroner said that there was no doubt deceased met his death by falling from the cliff, but one had difficulty in coming to a conclusion as to how that fall occurred. There was no one who saw the fall. It appeared that deceased was in the habit of going to this point for a walk and they had evidence that it was a common occurrence that people looked over as well as sat near the edge. Whether deceased did that on this occasion he could not say. They had heard that there was some little trouble and that the Customs Officer had spoken to deceased about a private matter, but that did not show he was affected in any way that would lead him (the Coroner) to believe that he intended to take his life, and he would set the point aside. On the other hand, there was no direct evidence that he went over the cliff accidentally, and therefore, he thought the proper verdict was that "Death was caused by falling over the cliff," leaving the matter quite open. He expressed sympathy with the relatives. - Inspector Dart associated himself with the remarks of the Coroner. Deceased was well known to the Police, and they were sorry that he should have come to such an untimely end. - MR REED suitably expressed his thanks.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 30 June 1930
AXMINSTER - "Accidental Death." East Devon Tragedy. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest conducted by Mr C. N. Tweed, Coroner, at Axminster on Saturday concerning the death of EDWARD GEORGE ANTONIO RODERIGO GOSLING, a 20-year-old labourer, of Tolcis Cottage, situated between Membury and Axminster, who died in the Cottage Hospital from the effects of a gun-shot wound sustained on the previous evening while out rabbit shooting at Tolcis Cross. - Evidence of identification was given by MRS FLORENCE ANNIE BOWDITCH (sister), with whom deceased lived. - Samuel Braddick, labourer, of Waterloo Cottage, near Membury, said that he saw deceased about 8 p.m. on Friday walking alongside a fence. He called to witness and, on approaching him, he (witness) saw blood issuing through his clothing. At deceased's request he was taken to Axminster Cottage Hospital. - P.C. Davey said that on the way to the Institution deceased explained how the accident happened. He said: "I was going to get over into the seed field, so I pushed the gun through the hedge first, and, having got over myself, pulled the gun towards me, when it went off and I received this" - a large perforated wound in the stomach. - Dr W. Langram, of Axminster, described the injuries and said that death was due to shock and internal haemorrhage, caused by the discharge of a gun.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 2 July 1930
ASHBURTON - Fall From Motor-Cycle. Death Follows Accident Near Dean Church. Coroner And Roads. - Mr E. Hutchings conducted an Inquest at Ashburton last evening in connection with the death of ARTHUR HARDING LATHAM, first-class stoker, R.N. Barracks, Plymouth, who was found injured on the Plymouth - Exeter road near Dean Church on June 23rd and died a few minutes later. - Dr S. R. Williams (Buckfastleigh) said that death was due to a fracture of the base of the skull. The injuries were consistent with the deceased having fallen off his motor cycle. - James Parsons, char-a-banc driver, said he was driving towards Plymouth when he saw deceased and his machine lying by the side of the road. He pulled up, and he and some of the passengers rendered assistance. Witness sent for the Police and a doctor and remained until they came. - Stoker William John Pruett said deceased was a most cautious driver. - P.C. Gould said that some thirty yards from the scene of the accident there were two circular depressions in the road, each about three feet in circumference and about an inch deep. It was possible that deceased got into these and lost control of the machine. Marks on the road showed that for 37 feet the bicycle had gone along on its side. The dips had since been repaired, but another cyclist had come off at the same spot since. There were many worse dips on the main roads, and he would not say that this road was dangerous. - Coroner And Railway Roads. - The Coroner, summing up, said that roads spanning railways were ten times worse than anything suggested in that case. It seemed to be out of fashion to repair the railway roads - it seemed as if the Act of Parliament was out of date. He expressed appreciation of the action of the driver and passengers of the char-a-banc. - The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

Western Times, Friday 4 July 1930 TETCOTT - 22-Years-Old Wife's Suicide. Tragic End Of A Tetcott Woman. On Eve Of Sailor Husband's Return. - The story of the suicide of a young wife who, according to a note which she left, "had come to the end of her tether," was related at the Inquest held at Tetcott, on Saturday, by the County Coroner, Mr H. C. Brown, on MRS MILLICENT DENNIS TRICK, aged 22, of Higher Lana Farm, Tetcott. - The body of deceased was found the previous day in a ditch near the farm house, with a double-barrelled gun near by, and a loop of material at her feet. - The tragic occurrence marked the eve of deceased's husband's return home after 2 ½ years' service abroad. - Found By Mother And Grandmother. - MRS EMMA BODY, the woman's grandmother, said MILLIE was married to WILLIAM TRICK, an able-seaman in the Navy. About 12.30 on Friday she passed through the kitchen and went outdoors, but witness had not noticed if she had anything with her. Later, as she did not return, witness and the girl's mother went out to look for her, and found her lying by the hedge. A gun was lying two or three yards away. - Witness had not noticed any difference in her manner lately, and had never heard her threaten to take her life. She worried about a young man she went out with. - Philip Back, of The Kennels, Tetcott, huntsman, stated that in response to a call for help, he went to Lana and saw the girl lying dead in the hedge. The gun produced was lying near the body with two cartridges, one of them discharged. - WALTER BODY said that he last saw his daughter on Thursday night. She had been quiet in her manner lately. They thought it was because of an affair with a young man which preyed on her mind. A note produced which was found in deceased's pocket was in his daughter's writing. - A. G. L. Cobbledick, of Lana, a labourer, aged 16, said he had known MRS TRICK well for the past three years and before her marriage. They had been constantly out together. He last saw her on Thursday night, when she appeared cheerful. He understood she was going down to Plymouth the next day to meet her husband. - Dr E. O. Kingdom, of Holsworthy, said he examined the body and found a gunshot wound just below the left breast, evidently fired at close range. The shot would pass through the heart and cause instant death. She must have rested on the gun and pressed the loop with her foot. - "At The End Of Her Tether." - A note left by the girl stated that she had "gone" because she was miserable with having given so much trouble, and had come to the end of her tether. It concluded, "Good-bye, all of you. God bless you." - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Death from Gunshot Wound, Self Inflicted, whilst in an Unsound State of Mind."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 7 July 1930
NEWTON ABBOT - Newton Suicide. - Mr G. Windeatt, Deputy Coroner, conducted an Inquest at Newton Abbot on Saturday, relative to the death of WILLIAM HENRY GERMAN, 59, of Wain-lane, Highweek, who was found hanging from a tree in Foxhole-lane, on Friday morning. - John Vine, of Wain-lane, said that deceased had lodged with him for about 25 years, and was a single man. On Monday he got up as usual and left the house, but did not go to work. Deceased suffered from a stiff leg, and had been worried and depressed in consequence. - Dr Colin King said that death was due to strangulation. About seven years ago deceased had a serious illness, which left him with a stiff leg. In spite of his disability he made a very good fight to keep at his work and succeeded. - A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 8 July 1930
EXETER - South Wales Lady's Death. Sequel To Accident At Alphington. Exeter Inquest. - Mr H. Linford Brown, Deputy City Coroner, sitting with a Jury at the Court House, Exeter, last night, conducted an Inquest concerning the death of MRS LOUISA AGNES JOHNS, 68, of Pembroke Dock, South Wales, who died in the Exeter Hospital from injuries received through being knocked down by a motor cycle at Alphington on Friday. - WILLIAM HENRY JOHNS said that with his wife and sister-in-law he visited relatives at Cross Farm, Alphington, on Friday. About 9 p.m. they left the farm, and his wife was crossing the road when she was knocked down by a motor cycle. - Dr Webster, Senior House Surgeon at the Hospital, said that deceased died early on Saturday morning. She was suffering from injury to the brain. - Herbert Glanville of 28 Maple-road, St Thomas, Exeter, said he was a pillion rider on the motor cycle concerned in the accident. Their speed at the time was about 10 miles per hour, but they had been going at 25 miles per hour. Deceased seemed to hesitate in front of them. She took two steps forward, two back again, and then another forward. - Miss Vera Gertrude Annie Greenhill, of The Villa, Alphington, said that if deceased had stood still the motor cyclist would have passed her. - Charles Henry Trude, of 33 Cecil-road, Exeter, driver of the first motor cycle, said deceased had her back towards him when he first saw her. Then she went to cross the road and hesitated. If she had gone on there would have been no accident. Witness was a member of the St John Ambulance Brigade and frequently drove their van. He had had a driving license for three years. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated the driver from blame.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 8 July 1930
AXMINSTER - Tetanus Death. Axminster Accident. - At Axminster last evening Mr C. N. Tweed, Coroner for East Devon, sitting with a Jury, conducted an Inquest relative to the death of GEORGE CONNETT, a clerk, aged 19, only son of MR A. G. CONNETT, of Lyme-road, Axminster, who died of oedema of the lungs, consequent on tetanus, at the Cottage Hospital on the previous day. - The evidence went to show that deceased was riding pillion on a motor cycle, driven by Francis Samuel Meecham, road foreman in the employ of Axminster Rural Council, on Tuesday, the 1st inst. When they were ascending Tytherleigh-hill, on the Axminster - Chard road, deceased turned round to attract the attention of a person travelling in a motor car in the opposite direction. In doing so he caught his right foot in the spokes of the rear wheel of the cycle, and sustained a lacerated wound on the heel. He was removed to the Cottage Hospital. Tetanus developed on Saturday. An injection was made, and this relieved the tetanus spasms. Deceased, however, experienced difficulty in breathing by reason of the mucus in the bronchial tubes. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 10 July 1930
EXETER - "Misadventure." Exeter Man's Death Under Anaesthetic. Inquest Verdict. - In accordance with medical evidence Mr H. Linford Brown, Deputy City Coroner, returned a verdict of "Death by Misadventure" at an Inquest held yesterday at an Exeter Nursing Home concerning the death of MR ERNEST ACKERSON ERREDGE, of 3 South-avenue, Polsloe-road, Exeter. Deceased, who was 59, was Managing-Director of Erredges, Ltd., motor factors, of Paris-street. He was a native of Brighton, at one time interested in cycling and shooting and latterly an active member of Exeter and District Fishers' Club. - WILLIAM HENRY SMITH of 14 South-avenue, said his father-in-law had undergone two previous operations. - Dr Ffoulkes said he attended the Nursing Home with Mr Candler and Dr Colmer at 10.35 on Tuesday morning. Deceased was to undergo an operation, and when on the operating table appeared to be in quite good spirits. Witness examined his heart and lungs and found no reason not to administer an anaesthetic. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said anaesthetics had been administered to the deceased for two previous operations - on the first occasion by witness and on the second by Dr Colmer. The first was a severe operation, but deceased had stood it well. Witness administered a mixture of chloroform and ether - the anaesthetic in general use at hospitals. He used it always, unless there was some special indication not to do so. At the beginning deceased had taken it very well and had remarked that he was "going under" very slowly, but patients often lost sense of time. His condition appeared quite normal. The second stage of anaesthesia was a stage of excitement and there was a good deal of struggling. - Replying to the Coroner, witness said that the struggling was rather excessive, but he had had patients much worse in that respect. Continuing, he said that, the excitative stage over, he administered ether only; the mask was not changed, but some chloroform would have remained on it. When on the point of reaching complete surgical anaesthesia, deceased stopped breathing and his pulse was imperceptible at the wrist. During artificial respiration he breathed a few times. The usual stimulants were injected, and the operating surgeon opened the abdomen and gave indirect massage to the heart, but without effect. The cause of death was heart failure through atheroma during the administration of chloroform and ether. - The Coroner said he had received from Mr Candler a statement which agreed with the evidence of Dr Ffoulkes and stated also that the operation was a necessary one.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 11 July 1930
TEIGNMOUTH - The Haldon Crash. Inquest Adjourned. - Mr Ernest Hutchings, Coroner, opened an Inquest at the Town Hall, Teignmouth, on Wednesday concerning the death of MISS KATHLEEN WINIFRED WEEKS, who died following an accident on Haldon whilst riding at midnight on Tuesday. At the outset Mr Hutchings said he believed he would be expressing the views of the Jury, as well as his own, in offering sympathy to the relatives in the tragic occurrence. The rider of the motor cycle, Mr C. Neale, was too ill to attend, and he proposed only to take evidence of identification. This was given by MRS GLADYS M. WOODBURY, St Peter's-road, Tiverton, sister of the deceased. - The Coroner then adjourned the Inquest until Monday next, the 14th, at 4.30.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 14 July 1930
EXETER - Kettle Tragedy. Exeter Baby's Fatal Scalding. - The Deputy Exeter Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, conducted an Inquest on Saturday on MONICA DORIS TRICE, of Mermaid Yard, Exeter, a two-year-old child, who died on Friday as the result of an accident in her home the previous day. - ROSE ELLEN TRICE, 2 The Lodge, Mermaid Yard, mother, said the child was suffering from pneumonia and had been placed near a fire. At hand was a steam kettle on a gas ring. The water suddenly came out of the kettle and went over the child. Witness bathed the child in olive oil and sent for a doctor. The child, however, died. - Dr G. M. Rolfe, a lady practitioner, said the child's abdomen was injured by the water. Death was due to pneumonia, accelerated by shock caused by the scalding. The mother did everything possible. - The Deputy Coroner returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 14 July 1930
EXETER - Exonian's Death. Sequel to 12-Months-Old Accident. - The Deputy Exeter Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, opened an Inquest at the Court House, Exeter, on Saturday, on JOHN LEWIS ANTONIO CROSS, of 16 Holloway-street, Exeter, who died on Friday as the result of injuries received when the motor cycle combination on which he was riding pillion was involved in a collision with a stationary horse and cart at Chick's Corner, Alfington, Ottery St Mary, on May 15th, last year. - WILLIAM GEORGE CROSS said deceased was his youngest son, aged 22. Deceased was a window cleaner by trade. - The Deputy Coroner adjourned the Inquest until Friday at 4.30 p.m.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 15 July 1930
TEIGNMOUTH - Cashier's Death. Victim Of Haldon Motor Cycle Crash. Inquest Story. - Mr Ernest Hutchings, the South Devon Coroner, concluded an Inquest at the Town Hall, Teignmouth, yesterday, on MISS WINIFRED KATHLEEN ("KITTY") WEEKS, 25, of Orchard Gardens, Teignmouth, who was killed when the motor cycle on which she was a pillion passenger drove into a bank on a road leading to a disused quarry near the Golf House, Haldon, about midnight on July 7th. MISS WEEKS was employed as a cashier at Mr W. H. Bonner's establishment in Regent-street, Teignmouth. The motor cycle on which she was riding was driven by Charles Frederick Neale, of Exeter. When the Inquest was opened on July 8th, MRS GLADYS MARGARET WOODBURY, of 28 St Peter's-street, Tiverton, sister, gave evidence of identification. - Yesterday, Robert John England, farm labourer, of Combe Cottages, Higher Combe, Teignmouth, said that about 11.30 on the night of the accident he was walking towards Teignmouth on the main Exeter-Teignmouth road with his brother-in-law, Frank Tickle. He saw a motor cycle leaning against the bank in a cutting about 50 yards on the Teignmouth side of Luton Cross. The cutting, he believed, led to a disused quarry. There was nothing about the position of the machine to attract special attention. A young man came out of the track and stopped them. He seemed very distressed and his face was covered in blood. He said he had had a smash and his young lady was unconscious. Witness accompanied the young man about five or six yards up the track, where he saw a young lady lying on the bank parallel to the track. His brother-in-law went to the Golf House for water and meanwhile Neale told him that he had been going in the direction of Teignmouth, when a car approached him with dazzling headlights. After it had passed him the front wheel of his machine had struck a stone and he shot across the road into the cutting. Neale told witness that after he regained consciousness he rode up and down the road to try to find a house where he could get assistance, but failed. Ten minutes later a car came along and the occupants went for an ambulance. The night was quite clear. - Frank Tickle, of the same address, gave corroborative evidence. William Walter Burr, chemist, of Regent-street, Teignmouth, related how he returned to Teignmouth in his motor car to fetch the Police and an ambulance. He then took the motor cyclist to Exeter. - Brain Covering Torn. - Dr Daniel Ross Kilpatrick, of Teignmouth, said he saw MISS WEEKS at 1.15 a.m. on July 8th in Teignmouth Hospital. She was dead when he examined her. There was no external sign of violence except a bruise on the left buttock and a small wound on the back of the head. However, there was a linear fracture of the vault of the skull and a portion of the covering of the brain had been torn away, causing extensive haemorrhage. The injuries might have been caused by her head striking a small sharp object such as a flint. She would never have recovered consciousness after the accident. - Charles Frederick Neale, 20, of 4 Savile-road, Buddle-lane, Exeter, an assistant fitter on the G.W.R., said he had been riding a motor cycle for 12 months. On July 7th he met MISS WEEKS in Teignmouth at about 8.10 p.m. She had been out on his motor cycle about three times previously. First of all they went to Kingsteignton and then on to Haldon, where they stayed for a while. They returned by way of Little Haldon. - The Coroner: And then what happened? - Witness: I really do not know what happened before this unfortunate occurrence. - The Coroner: But the next day you made a statement. - Witness: The only thing I can remember is that we were coming along the main road very steadily. When we got to the cutting I suppose I must have mistaken it for the main road and so got on to the moor. - The Coroner: You have given a very detailed statement of what happened. - Witness: I cannot make any statement other than that, can I? - Pressed further, witness said the moon was up and the light was very deceiving. There was a blue mist rising from the moor, and the trees at the side of the road threw a shadow. The surface of the main road was the same colour as that of the cutting. All he could remember was the crunching of his wheels on stones and then everything was blank. He was not going at more than 20 m.p.h. when the accident occurred. When he came to his senses his face was burning terribly. He stretched out his hand and felt MISS WEEKS beside him. He took off his coat and put it on the girl. He then rode up and down the road to seek assistance. - Re-calling the doctor, the Coroner asked if it was possible for the mind of a young man who had sustained concussion in an accident to become a blank a few days afterwards. - Dr Kilpatrick said he knew of no such case. - The Coroner: It strikes me as curious that at the time when this young man went for assistance he told a witness that he had been dazzled by the headlights of a car and now he says that the accident was caused by the shadows. - P.C. Setter (Teignmouth) said that for 100 yards on the Teignmouth side of the Luton Cross the road was a continuous bend. There were marks of brakes being applied 24 feet from the entrance to the cutting, and he saw MISS WEEKS'S body 21 feet further on. - The Coroner, in addressing the Jury, said they would have to consider at what speed the motor cycle had been going. He paid a tribute to the conduct of all who had been concerned in the accident. With little deliberation the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 15 July 1930
BRAMPFORD SPEKE - Bideford Driver Absolved From Blame. Crediton Man's Death. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned by a Jury sitting with Mr G. H. Stephens, Deputy Coroner, at an Inquest at the Three Horse Shoes, Cowley, last night, concerning the death of CHARLES HEDLEY RALPH, of 68 East-street, Crediton. - Evidence of identification was given by the widow, MRS LILAN RALPH, who said her husband was 56 and hard of hearing. He went to the Three Horse Shoes on business on Saturday evening. - Dr L. N. Jackson said that death was almost instantaneous, and was due to shock owing probably to a fractured skull. - Sidney Harris, of Wisteria, Buddle-lane, St Thomas, said he was driving a bus from Crediton to Exeter about 100 yards behind that in which deceased was travelling. The vehicle pulled up slightly on the Exeter side. He saw two ladies waiting to get in the bus, but did not see anyone get out. He then noticed deceased walk from behind the bus, at an angle of about 45 degrees, towards the Three Horse Shoes. A motor car was approaching and it struck deceased with the inside of the near wing. Witness did not think the man was on the look-out for cars, his attention being concentrated on the hotel. Deceased was twisted, turned, and pushed along in front of the car like a man on skates. The driver of the car, which was on its proper side, pulled up within a few feet. Deceased was tossed off on one side. Witness estimated the speed of the car at 25 miles per hour. He (witness) jumped from his bus and loosened deceased's collar, and an R.A.C. Scout supported his head, but he was dead. - Replying to Mr R. J. McGahey, witness said deceased would have escaped had he crossed the road straight. - P.C. Woodcock gave the road measurements. - The driver of the car, Charles Henry Bright, commercial traveller, of 29 High-street, Bideford, said he had been driving about seven or eight years. On rounding the corner he saw a bus stationary outside the Three Horse Shoes. He sounded his horn as he approached, but saw no one leave or enter the bus. As he passed the bus witness saw deceased emerge from behind it and dart across the road. Witness had absolutely no opportunity of applying his brakes. He only noticed the man as he struck him. Witness applied his brakes at once. Deceased was not in the road at the time witness was passing the bus, or he would have avoided the accident. When struck he shot along the ground at a terrific speed. Witness denied a suggestion by the Deputy Chief Constable, Major Halford Thompson, that he put his foot on the accelerator by mistake and caused a skid. - Arthur Cockram of 2 Well-street, Torrington, passenger with the previous witness, corroborated. - The Jury exonerated the driver from all blame, and gave their fees to the widow.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 16 July 1930
TORQUAY - Torquay Mother's Loss. - On Sunday afternoon two young men in a boat picked up the body of a man at the bottom of the cliff at Long Quarry, Wall's Hill, Torquay. The body was taken to the Mortuary and later identified as that of FRANK PRIDHAM, aged 34, gardener at the Palace Hotel, Torquay, who lived with his mother at 1 Waterloo-road. Deceased had been missing since 5 p.m. on Saturday afternoon. - At the Inquest yesterday, conducted by Mr E. Hutchings, F. C. Martin Reeves, of Headland Park-road, Paignton, bank clerk, said that on Sunday afternoon he was in a boat with a friend near Walls's Hill. They decided to land and climb the rocks between Oddicombe and Anstey's Cove. They landed and began to climb the cliff. About 40 feet up they came to a ledge and saw the body of a man lying face downwards. It was obvious from the way the man was lying that he was dead. Witness went to Oddicombe Beach and reported the matter. - P.C. Nunn said that the body was 100 ft. from the top of the cliff. - MRS ROSE A. PRIDHAM, widow, mother of deceased, said her son had suffered from epileptic fits all his life. He had then about once every other week. - Dr B. E. P. Sayers said the injuries were very severe, the head being terribly mutilated. One side of the face, including the eye, was completely battered in. The whole face and skull were smashed like an eggshell. The legs were broken, also the collar-bone. - The Coroner recorded a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed sympathy with the mother, saying that he wanted her to understand there was no suggestion that her son had taken his life.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 16 July 1930
TAVISTOCK - Bere Alston Fatality. Inquest Adjourned. - An Inquest was conducted by Mr A, K. G. Johnstone, sitting with a Jury, at Tavistock yesterday concerning the death of EDWARD ALEXANDER TUCKER, aged 21, farm labourer, who died in Tavistock Hospital on Monday from injuries sustained in a motor accident at Bere Alston. - Dr C. S. Anderson said the cause of death was a fracture of the skull. - WILLIAM NEWMAN TUCKER, father of deceased, said his son had been employed at Helston Farm, Bere Ferrers, for more than two years and he knew the road well. He had ridden a bicycle ever since he was a small boy, and was a careful rider. - George Larson, motor driver, of Plymouth, said he was driving a motor van, containing seven or eight cwt. of agricultural produce, from the ferry to Plymouth and the accident occurred on the bend. He did not see the cyclist until he was on top of him. Witness was travelling about 15 miles an hour. He was in second gear, sounded his horn and never cut any corners. - The Jury expressed a desire to visit the spot and see the van before giving their verdict. The Inquest was adjourned until this afternoon.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 17 July 1930
TAVISTOCK - Dangerous Hedges. - Returning a verdict of "Accidental Death" at the Inquest at Tavistock, yesterday, on EDWARD TUCKER, farm labourer, fatally injured in a cycling accident at Bere Alston, the Foreman said the Jury thought that far greater attention should be given to the trimming of hedges, especially on narrow roads.

Western Times, Friday 18 July 1930 DARTMOUTH - No Negligence Proved. - At the adjourned Inquest at Dartmouth Tuesday, on ARTHUR FREDERICK POOK, farmer, of West Combe Farm, Stokefleming, who died in Dartmouth Cottage Hospital on July 11th, following an accident while returning from work in the hayfield on July 5th, a verdict of "Death in accordance with medical evidence, and is Accidental: no negligence has been proved," was returned. The adjournment was decided on in order that the staff at the Hospital might give evidence. The Matron spoke to deceased receiving several dressings. Everything was done for him; she denied that POOK had been refused a dressing at any time. Miss Gwendoline Seabright, a nurse and Dr White Cooper gave evidence, the latter stating that he was satisfied the Hospital Staff had done everything they could. The Coroner said to him none of the statements concerning the Hospital had been substantiated. Mr T. J. W. Templeman, of Exeter, represented the Hospital authorities.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 19 July 1930
NEWTON ABBOT - "Sudden Impulse." Newton Bank Manager's Tragic Death. Inquest Verdict. - Mr Ernest Hutchings, District Coroner, conducted an Inquest at Newton Abbot Town Hall yesterday afternoon concerning the death of MR GEORGE PHILIP DE FAYE, 58, manager of the Capital and Counties Branch of Lloyds Bank, who was found lying in the garage at his residence on Wednesday afternoon with a gunshot wound in his head. At the outset the Coroner said he was sure he was voicing the feelings of everyone in Newton Abbot in expressing deep sympathy with the widow and family in the terrible sorrow which had befallen them. MR DE FAYE was well known and highly esteemed, and they could only deplore and regret his passing. He would be missed greatly. - Dr Edgar Haydon gave evidence of identification, and said deceased had been a patient of his for many years. He had been attending him quite recently. In April of this year MR DE FAYE had an attack of influenza and for ten days or a fortnight was confined to his bed. He then went for a holiday and returned very much better. He was over-anxious, however, to carry on with his work, and had a recurrence, eventually breaking down. In May the trouble recurred and deceased had a brain clot, being confined to his bed for about six weeks, necessitating the attendance of a nurse day and night. At the end of six weeks they were able to dispense with the services of one nurse because he was so much better, being able to associate with his family and to go into the garden. His condition improved so much that they had decided to dispense with the services of the second nurse in the course of the week. About 2.30 p.m. on Thursday he received an urgent message from MRS DE FAYE asking him to go to the house at once, as it was a matter of life or death. Witness found MR DE FAYE lying on his back in the garage. He was unconscious and bleeding severely from a wound in the right temple. Witness was handed a revolver, which deceased had evidently held a short distance from his head. The St John Ambulance was sent for, and deceased was taken to Hospital as soon as possible. The haemorrhage was so severe, however, that he died within half an hour of reaching the Institution. Nothing could be done for him. The cause of death was laceration and haemorrhage of the brain in consequence of a gunshot wound. - Medical Opinion. - In reply to the Coroner, Dr Haydon said that so far as deceased's general health was concerned he had not been himself for some time, being very low and depressed. He was of opinion that the act was committed on a sudden impulse. MR DE FAYE left the table after lunch and smiled as he went out. Within five minutes or so the shot was heard. - Miss Vera Gwendoline Cawdle, nurse, said that she had been staying at MR DE FAYE'S residence for about seven weeks. On Wednesday she had lunch with the family. MR DE FAYE was quiet, but talked a little and smiled. He left the room soon after lunch and a little later witness heard a report like the bursting of a tyre. She went to look for MR DE FAYE and found him in the garage. A revolver was lying on the floor by his side. She went for assistance and the doctor was summoned. - The Coroner said his verdict would be that deceased died from a gunshot wound, Self-inflicted on a sudden impulse and during a moment of mental aberration. It was evidence that the depression resulting from his long illness had affected his mind, which suddenly became unhinged. If that happened to any one of them anything might happen.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 19 July 1930
EXETER - Sequel To Road Crash. Exonian's Fatal Injuries At Alfington. Inquest Story. - The adjourned Inquest was conducted at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, by Mr Linford Brown, sitting with a Jury, relative to the death of JOHN LEWIS ANTONIO CROSS, of 16 Holloway-street, Exeter, window cleaner, aged 22, who met with an accident while motoring at Alfington, on May 15th, 1929. Mr Templeman appeared for the relatives and Mr Noel Ford for deceased's employer. - John Thomas Carter said that he was standing in a field, when he saw two motor cycle combinations go round a bend in the road one after the other. Both had ladders on them. Subsequently he saw a smashed cycle and deceased lying on the ground. It appeared that the machine had been driven into a horse and cart, which was on the correct side of the road. The road was fairly wide, but there was a blind bend at the corner, and a bridge. He did not consider deceased was going too fast. He had seen others take the corner much faster. - Answering Mr Templeman, witness said that deceased was riding on the back of the cycle and not at the side. The other cycle safely passed the horse and cart. - Replying to Mr Ford, witness said the road rose towards the bridge and if one came in contact with an obstacle it was possible for a driver's hands to become disconnected with the handlebars. - Christopher Maher, labourer, of Talaton, who was working at Alfington, said he was loading chippings and his horse and cart were well in on the left-hand side. About four feet of the vehicle were on the road. Witness saw nothing until the horse's band broke and the shafts went up in the air. The motor cycle was under the horse and the feet of the animal on the sidecar. The driver of the cycle had got up and deceased was on his back behind the machine. He was conscious. The surface of the road was tarred and there had been rain. - In answer to the Foreman, witness said he did not notice the horse move before the accident. - Replying to Mr Templeman, witness said he could not say whether any claim had been made against his employer for damages. - In answer to Mr Ford, witness said there were large flints by the road, but he did not think his horse kicked one on to it. The animal was quiet and he did not think it moved. - Constable's Opinion. - P.C. O. F. Milton (Ottery St Mary) said he was on the scene of the accident shortly after it happened. The driver was walking about and he sent him to the Hospital. Deceased complained that his legs were cold and of other things and witness came to the conclusion that he had broken his back. He was also conveyed to Hospital. - In reply to Mr Templeman, witness said the road was being prepared for tarring. There was nothing there to cause an accident. There was a skid mark on the road 56 feet long on the other side of the bridge. The distance between the end of the skid and where the horse was standing was 38 feet. Witness formed the opinion that the driver took his brake off at the end of the skid and then ran into the horse. - In answer to Mr Ford, witness said the corner was very bad. - Frederick Goldsworthy, 76 Merrivale-road, Exeter, said he was travelling in second gear. He was of opinion that the front wheel of the machine struck a stone and before he knew where he was the cycle had gone into the horse. Witness was not rendered unconscious, but made silly. He did not think he was going fast. He had only ridden the machine a short time and did not know up to what speed it would travel. - Replying to the Foreman, witness said that when his front wheel struck something the whole of the machine seemed to leave him. - In answer to Mr Templeman, witness said he was not trying to catch up other cyclists and did not go on to the wrong side of the road. If he had been going too fast it would not have been possible to turn the bend with safety. - Answering Mr Ford, witness said that he had ridden about 300 miles in the six weeks. - Wallace V. Bristow, of Exeter, proprietor of a Window Cleaning Company, gave evidence. - Dr John C. Heale said that, following Hospital treatment, deceased came under his care on October 10th. He was suffering from paralysis, as the result of fracture of the fifth cervical vertebra. Kidney disease followed, arising from the paralysis and caused death. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 19 July 1930 EXETER - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned by the Jury at the resumed Inquest held yesterday by Mr H. Linford Brown, Deputy District Coroner, on the infant child of VIOLET BREALEY, of Clyst Honiton, and formerly a servant at Heavitree, Exeter.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 22 July 1930
TIVERTON - A Fatal Fall. Kentisbeare Mother's Sad Loss. - "A terrible experience, and might have involved the death of the mother also" was the comment of Mr Clutsom, Tiverton Borough Coroner, at an Inquest last evening concerning the death of MAURICE WALTER SPARKES, the six-months-old son of MR and MRS ROBERT SPARKES, of Church Cottage, Kentisbeare, who died in the Institution from compression of the brain. - The evidence showed that on Friday, about 10.30 p.m., the mother heard the child crying upstairs and went to fetch it. She tripped in a loose stair-rod and fell headlong with the infant in her arms. At the foot of the stairs, the child's head came in violent contact with the frame of a door. The child died at 1.30 a.m. Saturday. - The Coroner registered a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 23 July 1930
EXETER - Road Accident. Honiton Lady's Death From Injuries. Inquest Story. - How one accident near Honiton caused another which resulted in the death of a Honiton lady was related to the Deputy Exeter Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, and a Jury at an Inquest at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, concerning the death of MRS EMILY JANE LAWRENCE, of Lambpark Cottage, Honiton, who died in Exeter Hospital early on Monday morning as the result of being knocked down by a motor car at Springfield Corner. Mr F. G. Hill (Budleigh Salterton) appeared for Mr Roe (the driver of the car involved), Mr C. N. Tweed (Honiton) for the relatives and Supt. Braddell (Honiton) for the Police. - ABRAHAM LAWRENCE of Lambpark Cottage, Honiton, said his wife was 63. She could hear well and her sight was good. - P.C. Climo (Honiton) said that on Sunday he went along the main road from Honiton to Axminster because there had been an accident. He found that a motor coach had struck the left-hand side of the road on the Honiton side of Springfield-road. About eight people were there. There was about eight to nine feet of clear road on the right-hand side of the vehicle. He saw a saloon car coming down the hill at a very fast speed, which he estimated at about 35 m.p.h. Witness signalled to him to stop, but the car did not slow down for some yards. The driver then applied his brakes fiercely, turned the bonnet of the car to the right and the vehicle served all over the road. Witness caught hold of a Miss Miller and pushed her away from the car. The near front wheel struck the back of his (witness's) right leg. Looking over his shoulder, he saw the car strike MRS LAWRENCE, who was standing about two feet from the hedge and about eight feet from the rear of the bus. The lamp and near side of the radiator hit deceased and pushed her into the hedge. The car rebounded from the hedge, broadsided down the road, and struck the back of the bus. The hedges were low on the right-hand side of the road coming towards Honiton. The driver got out of the car and asked if he could render assistance. Witness said that he and another Constable and an A.A. Scout had been directing traffic below the bus. - "A Dangerous Road." - The Deputy Coroner: Why did not one of you stand above the bus and direct traffic on the corner? You would then have had a greater range of visibility. Witness: We were just going to do that. - Replying to a Juryman, witness said that MRS LAWRENCE was about to follow her daughter across the road. - By Mr Tweed: It was a perfectly easy corner to negotiate if taken slowly. - In answer to Mr Hill, witness said that it was a dangerous road, owing to the nature of the bend and the surface of the road. Twenty miles per hour would have been too great a speed to have come round the corner. - Asked how long he would estimate the car would take to cover the 68 feet from the spot where it was when he first saw it and the back of the bus, witness said about one minutes. Mr Hill pointed out that mathematics showed it to be seven seconds. - P.C. Pike, of Honiton, said he was first on the scene of the accident. He heard someone shout, "Look out," and on turning round saw a car coming from the Axminster direction swerving all over the road. Possibly MRS LAWRENCE heard the shout, but, being old, had no time to jump out of the way. The camber of the road was difficult at that spot. - By Mr Hill: He did not remember hearing Mr Roe, the driver of the car, say after the accident, "For heaven's sake protect the car." Witness remained on duty on the corner for 4 ½ hours afterwards. It had been raining hard all day and the surface of the road was treacherous. He formed the opinion that the bus had skidded. Cars had been approaching the bend after the first accident at speeds up to 40 m.p.h. - Eric George Miller, of London, said that the car was only about ten yards from the back of the bus when it started to slow up. - MRS MAY TURL, East-street, Colyton, daughter of deceased, said that the car was coming towards them at a fast speed. The umbrella she held in her hand was presumably broken by the car. - Samuel Tremayne, motor engineer, of High-street, Honiton, said that the car was not going more than 23 m.p.h., and was going quite cautiously. In his opinion, the driver applied his brakes as soon as he saw the obstruction. The car got into an absolutely uncontrollable skid. - Reginald Edward Hopkins, of 65 Dunmere-road, Ellacombe, Torquay, said that he had been a charabanc driver for 16 years. He was driving a charabanc from London on Sunday and thought the car came round the bend at about 25 m.p.h. Had Roe been driving with more care the accident would have been avoided. - Norman Percival Roe, of Stepaside, Budleigh Salterton, said he was a retired district engineer of the Great Indian Municipal Railway. On Sunday he had travelled from Ringwood, 72 miles from Honiton, in three hours. He saw a crowd at Springfield Corner and applied his brakes. He developed an uncontrollable skid and thought he was going to kill a lot of people. The camber of the road was wrong on the bend. Witness produced a pilot's certificate and a medal won for driving an ambulance in the war. - Dr Gerrish, of the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said that MRS LAWRENCE died from shock and a fractured femur. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated Mr Roe from blame. They expressed sympathy with the relatives of deceased and the Coroner and Mr Roe concurred.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 23 July 1930
TAVISTOCK - Bere Alston Accident. Inquest Verdict. - An Inquest was held at Tavistock yesterday by Mr J. Kenneth G. Johnstone, District Coroner, sitting with a Jury, concerning the death of WILLIAM JAMES, aged 64, of Fitzford Cottages, Tavistock, foreman platelayer in the employ of the Southern Railway. He died in Tavistock Hospital on Saturday from injuries caused by falling from a bank of a cutting on the Bere Alston side of Shillamill Tunnel on the previous Monday. - Frederick Charles Gregory of Tavistock, in the employ of the Southern Railway, said that deceased was trimming brambles and ferns in a cutting near Shillamill Tunnel, Tavistock. He held a rope in his hand and witness held it at the top of the cutting. Suddenly he felt a strain, and heard deceased fall through the rope breaking. - Mr Oliver, an inspector on the railway, said that the rope appeared to be in a sound condition. Deceased might have slipped and cut the rope accidentally in trying to save himself. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Times, Friday 25 July 1930 NEWTON ABBOT - Newton Woman Found Hanging From The Stairs. - "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was returned by Mr E. Hutchings, Coroner, at Newton Abbot, on Monday, at an Inquest on MRS MARY GUBB, aged 54 years, who died from strangulation caused by hanging. The husband, returning from work on the evening of July 19th, found his wife hanging dead from the stairs. He said she had complained of headaches.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 25 July 1930
TOTNES - Jambed By Bus. Churston Lady's Death From Injuries. Totnes Danger-Spot. - Mr G. E. Windeatt, Deputy Coroner, conducted the Inquest at Totnes Guildhall yesterday concerning the death of MRS MALINDA HOSKING, wife of MR V. HOSKING, of Galmpton Mill Farm, Churston, who was jambed by a motor bus at Station-road corner, Totnes, on Tuesday evening, and died at Totnes Cottage Hospital shortly after admission. A Jury was empanelled, Colonel Potter being chosen Foreman. Mr Fabyan Windeatt (Plymouth) represented the Bus Company and Mr G. W. Brown, Secretary South-Western District) was for the N.U.R. - MR VALENTINE HOSKING, farmer, of Galmpton Mill Farm, Churston, gave evidence of identification and said that deceased was 53. - Dr S. C. Jellicoe said that about 8.35 on Tuesday evening he was called to Station-road and found the deceased lying on the ground very ill and he advised her removal to the Cottage Hospital. He examined her at the Institution and found she was suffering from internal haemorrhage. She passed away at 9.35 the same evening from this cause. - Louisa Wyatt, of 53 High-street, Totnes, said deceased spent the early portion of Tuesday evening with her. About 8.15 she accompanied deceased to the Station-road corner in order to catch a bus. They stopped outside Mr Luscombe's shop. They saw the bus coming, and deceased went forward to cross the road, and as she walked across the road, held up her hand for the bus to stop. The bus came round the corner, and she lost sight of deceased. Witness heard someone scream, and the bus stopped, and she went round the bus and found that deceased was absolutely trapped and jambed between the back of the bus and the King William Hotel. She could not get to the deceased from the front of the bus nor from the back. The bus was on the pavement; otherwise the deceased would have been perfectly safe. - Samuel John Salter, 47 Fore-street, Totnes, said he saw a large bus proceeding towards Fore-street at a very slow pace, tight on its proper side. He heard a horn sounded and saw deceased go across the road from Mr Luscombe's shop and reach the pavement above the lower door of the King William Hotel. Witness walked behind the bus and saw that the back wheels would go on the pavement, while the deceased was walking up the pavement towards the back of the bus. Witness stopped and as the bus went forward the near rear wheel mounted the pavement. He made gestures to deceased to go back, and shouted to her, but before she could do anything she was caught between the bus and the Hotel window-sill. Deceased screamed and the vehicle was pulled up almost immediately; it was well under control. Witness was unable to get to the deceased. - Arthur Nuttall, Fore-street, Totnes, said he saw a lady standing on the pavement between the doors of the King William Hotel. He saw the omnibus approaching the corner, the driver continually sounding his horn. As there was no traffic in Fore-street, he signalled the bus on. He next saw the previous witness waving his hands, and wondered what was the matter. He went to the back of the bus, and saw there was a lady pinned between the bus and the Hotel. - Evidence having been given by Frederick Charles Lethbridge of 8 Victoria-street Totnes, and P.C. Sanders. Henry S. E. Hooper, Preston, Paignton, driver of the bus, elected to give evidence. He said that on approaching the corner he saw there was no one on point duty, and he changed down to second gear. He kept to the left side, and saw someone wave him on. He was going about five miles an hour, and sounded his horn. He saw a lady cross the road when he was about to negotiate the corner, but he did not see her put up her hand. The people in Fore-street shouted to him to stop, which he did. That was his fifth journey on the road that day. - In reply to Superintendent Hulland, witness said they had no instructions about stopping on the corner, but they usually stopped before they came to it. He intended to stop down the street to take up the deceased. - After a short retirement the Jury announced a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated the driver from blame. They added a rider that the attention of the authority be called to this particularly dangerous corner. - The Coroner said he would forward it to the proper quarter and expressed great regret with Mr Hosking in his sad loss. Mr F. Windeatt, Mr Brown and the Superintendent joined in the expression.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 26 July 1930
CHARDSTOCK (DORSET) - A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was returned at an Inquest conducted at Forde Farm, Chardstock, yesterday, by Mr C. N. Tweed, East Devon Coroner, concerning the death of MRS ALICE BRIDGET PERRING, wife of MR JAMES PERRING, who was found hanging from a beam at the farm. It was stated that deceased suffered from pyorrhoea and depression.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 31 July 1930
DAWLISH - Dawlish Bus Fatality. Driver Exonerated By Coroner's Jury. Witness Rebuked. - At the Inquiry at Dawlish into the circumstances of the death of MISS MARY HULL, 37, of Alva House, Guiseley, near Leeds, a visitor who was run over and killed by a Devon General omnibus on Monday evening, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, and the driver of the bus, John Cecil Dymond, was exonerated from blame. - The evidence of Wilfred Peal, retired Civil servant and Annie Dew, domestic servant, both of Dawlish, was that the bus was travelling quite slowly. Just after it had turned the Royal Hotel corner by the railway viaduct, the deceased and her mother walked into the road. They appeared to hesitate and the older woman was knocked away from the bus, but the other fell under the near front wheel and was killed. Annie Dew said the deceased appeared to push her mother away and fall. - When Joshua Bancroft, of Bishopsteignton, gave evidence, it was said that he had volunteered a statement to the Police that the bus was travelling fast, and that the fact of its being on its wrong side was the cause of the occurrence. When questioned on oath, he said that he did not actually see the accident, but saw the position of the body afterwards. - The Coroner commented severely on a man making such a serious statement about something which he had not actually seen. He warned him against making such reckless statements. - The driver said he could have done nothing more than he did to avoid the accident. - Deceased's sister, MRS CONSTANCE SARAH PEARSON, stated that her mother said that the bus must have been going very slowly because it only pushed her off. She said it was not the driver's fault. - Sympathy was expressed with the relatives by the Coroner and Jury, and Mr F. J. Templeman on behalf of the owners of the vehicle.

Western Times, Friday 1 August 1930 ASHBURTON - Crediton Motorist's Death. Inquest Opened At Buckfastleigh And Adjourned. - Mr George Windeatt, Deputy Coroner, at Ashburton, on Tuesday, opened an Inquest on WILLIAM JOHN KEMP, aged 35, a steam wagon driver (employed by Mr Clarke, haulage contractor, of Christow) of Mill-street, Crediton, who died in Ashburton Hospital on Monday following a motor cycle accident. - MR KEMP was motor cycling to a Devon County Council quarry near Buckfastleigh, and came into collision with another motor cycle, ridden by Mr John Seager, of Buckfastleigh, on the Buckfastleigh by-pass road. - The only evidence taken was that of identification, which was given by James Bishop, of Charlotte-street, Crediton, brother-in-law. - The Inquiry will be resumed at Buckfastleigh Town Hall today, at 5.30 p.m.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 2 August 1930
BUCKFASTLEIGH - Jury And Corner. Removal Of Linhay And Wall Recommended. South Devon Fatality. - Mr J. E. Windeatt, Deputy South Devon Coroner, sitting with a Jury, concluded the inquest at Buckfastleigh yesterday on WILLIAM JOHN KEMP, steam waggon driver, of 27 Mill-street, Crediton, who was fatally injured early on Monday morning when the motor cycle he was riding came into collision with another motor cycle ridden by Mr Seager, of Buckfastleigh. Deceased died in Ashburton Cottage Hospital the same day. When the Inquest was opened on Tuesday, James Bishop, of 18 Charlotte-street, Crediton, a brother-in-law, gave evidence of identification. Deceased, who was 35, was employed by Mr F. T. Clarke, haulage contractor, of Christow. - Mr S. E. Crosse (Exeter), watched the proceedings for Mr Clarke. - Dr Eva Constance Ironside, of Buckfastleigh, said that early on Monday she was called to the scene of the accident. Two men were lying in the road - one in the middle and the other by the side. - The man in the middle of the road said "I am all right; got to the other man." - Witness found deceased to be unconscious and bleeding from the nose and ears. She ordered his removal to the Ashburton Cottage Hospital. A post-mortem examination showed death to be due to fracture of the base of the skull. - George Henry Hayman, labourer, of 4 Chapel-street, Buckfastleigh, said he was cutting grass by the side of Strode-road. Shortly after he started work he saw KEMP coming towards him, on the main road, from the direction of Ashburton. He was riding on his proper side at about 20 miles per hour. Witness watched KEMP for about 60 yards, and then continued his work. A moment later he heard a crash, and, looking up, saw two motor cycles interlocked. He saw KEMP fall on his near side, his head hitting the kerb. Witness went to his assistance. He then looked round for Seager, and found he was unconscious. He had heard no hooter sounded by either motor cyclist. - George Sidney Midgeley, 5 Pioneer's-terrace, Buckfastleigh, said he was walking down Fore-street on his way to the Station when he heard a motor cycle behind him. It was being ridden by Jack Seager, and he was on his correct side when witness first saw him. At Damarel's Bridge, at the entrance to Totnes-road, Seager was riding in the middle of the road. He was going at a steady speed, and sounded his hooter once before crossing Station-road. A moment later witness heard a crash and ran to the crossroads, where he found two motor cyclists lying in the road. - No Recollection. - Jack Seager, 5 Bossell-terrace, Buckfastleigh, an electrical apprentice, elected to give evidence. He said he was going to work at Dartington Hall on Monday, and was travelling at from 12 to 15 miles per hour. As he approached the four cross roads he had a vague recollection of looking to his right, which was the only open part of the four cross roads, to see if anything was approaching. His next recollection was of being carried up into the town again on a stretcher. - He could remember nothing of the accident, of seeing the doctor, or of saying anything to her. - He was in the habit of blowing his hooter at the cross road, but whether he did so that day he could not recollect. - By Inspector Hannaford: He was riding in second gear, but he had often had experience of the machine slipping into top gear. - P.C. Gould, of Buckfastleigh, said Seager was lying in the route of the Totnes-road. Deceased's machine was lying on its near side, with the front wheel facing up the main Plymouth-road, and the handle-bars 18 inches from the kerb. Seager's cycle was also on its near side and facing the curve between Elliott's Plain and Strode-road. The saddle was one foot from the rear of KEMP'S machine, which was found to be in top gear. The front of deceased's machine appeared to have been hit by the other cycle. Seager's machine was also in top gear, and the front forks had been wrenched off. There was a linhay on the near side of Elliott's Plain which obscured traffic on the main Plymouth-road from persons going towards Totnes. - A Juryman: Have the Police ever received instructions to patrol the road at this danger spot? - P.S. Hall: At the time of the races, when the by-pass road was first opened, a man was stationed there, but there was no one there last year. - After a brief retirement, the Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," with no blame attached to anybody. - Major S. Vickers (Foreman) said: "The Jury consider this to be an extremely dangerous corner, and they would ask the Coroner to recommend to the local Authority, the County Council and the Ministry of Transport the removal of Tooley's linhay, also the removal of the wall and the lowering of the bank opposite." - The Coroner intimated that he would do this. - The Coroner, Jury, Mr S. E. Crosse and Inspector Hannaford joined in expressions of sympathy with the widow and relatives of deceased.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 7 August 1930
EXETER - Body In Basin. Exeter Youths' Gruesome Discovery. With Fishing lines. - A melancholy experience befell two Exeter youths while fishing in the City Basin last evening. Fred Walters, 16, of 20 Looe-road and Charles Triss, 16 of 158 Cowick-street, were pulling their lines in when an obstruction was felt and bubbles were seen rising to the surface. With difficulty, the body of a man was brought to the surface. The youths shouted to some people on the opposite bank and Mr William Lovegrove, of 43 Wonford-hill, helped to remove the corpse from the water. It was taken to the Mortuary, and was later identified as that of GEORGE HARKER, aged 82, of 36 Newman-road. He had been missing from his home since 8.30 p.m. on Saturday. 

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 7 August 1930
EXETER - The River Tragedy. - At the Inquest at the Court House yesterday on the body of ERNEST HENRY LETHBRIDGE, aged 25, of 47 Newman-road, who was drowned through a boat capsizing in the river, opposite Messrs. Gabriel's Yard, on Bank Holiday, the Coroner found that there was no evidence to show how the boat capsized. - Bertie Henry Hooper, of Albert-place, a labourer, said deceased and himself had some drinks on Monday, but both were sober when the public houses were closed at 2 p.m. They went in the boat half an hour after. Witness was often on the river, and had a considerable experience. Witness was rowing towards Double Locks. Suddenly deceased said "Look, Bert." There was then water up to LETHBRIDGE'S knees. Almost simultaneously the boat turned over and both were thrown into the water. Witness made an effort to get to the bank but failed. There was no skylarking and he did not catch a crab. - William John Addison, a sailor, who was in another boat, said it appeared as though the person with the oars in the other boat caught a crab. Witness got Hooper to the bank. - Albert John Milford, of Smythen-street, who was in another boat, said the stern of the craft in which deceased was seemed to go right down. As far as he could see there was nothing wrong in the conduct of deceased or Hooper. - Edward Richard Blunt said he heard Hooper say to deceased, "Stop messing about." - Hooper: I never said it. - Witness: Another boy also heard a remark like that.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 8 August 1930
OKEHAMPTON - Fatal Skid. Motor Cyclist's Death At Okehampton. - FRED GRIFFEN, age 24, one of a party of seven young men from Nottingham on a motor-cycle holiday in Devon, died at Okehampton Hospital at noon yesterday as a result of an accident at Okehampton on Wednesday. The party was travelling on the road to Exeter when GRIFFEN'S machine skidded and he was thrown under a lorry. His skull was fractured in two places. - At the Inquest, conducted last night by Mr G. J. Atkinson, Deputy Coroner, with Jury, the latter returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added a rider that no blame was attached to anyone.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 8 August 1930
ALPHINGTON - Found Drowned. Inquest Verdict On Exeter Octogenarian. - A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned by the Deputy District Coroner, Mr G. H. Stephens, at the Inquest yesterday on GEORGE HARPER, a widower, aged 82, of Newman-road, St Thomas, Exeter. The body was recovered from the Exeter Basin by two youths who were fishing on Wednesday evening. Evidence was given by a son, with whom the man lodged, that he was happy at home, but about 15 months ago his father left him and was found in St Thomas Workhouse. He last saw him alive on Saturday night. - The wife of the previous witness said her father-in-law seemed strange in his manner when he left home about 15 months ago, but had not threatened to take his life. - The body was examined by Dr Pereira Gray, who expressed the opinion that it had been in the water for three or four days.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 12 August 1930
EXETER - Bus Fatality. Inquest On Exeter Child Victim. "Accidental Death." - The Deputy City Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, conducted an Inquest at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, concerning the death of JOAN ALICE MAY BURNS of 18 Okehampton-place, the victim of the first fatality in connection with the Exeter Corporation bus service, which took place in Okehampton-road on Saturday. Mr F. D. Littlewood, Deputy Town Clerk, represented the Exeter City Council. - WILLIAM ROBERT BURNS gave evidence of identification. His daughter, he said, was playing in front of the house in the early part of the afternoon. She knew people in Stephen's-buildings, on the opposite side of the road, and occasionally went over to visit them. - William Henry Bolt, of 6 Alphington-street, said that on Saturday he was riding in the Corporation bus from Redhills. When the vehicle was abreast of Stephen's-buildings a little girl darted across the road, seeming almost to come from nowhere. She ran straight on, heedless of the on-coming bus. Witness felt the bus swerve to the right to avoid the child, and the driver applied the brakes immediately. The vehicle was going at a reasonable pace. - Mrs Annie Palmer of 34 Exwick-road, who was sitting in the front of the bus, said the girl seemed to dash right into the vehicle. - Richard George Ingram of 72 Okehampton-street, said he was in an upstair room when he heard shouts coming from the road. On looking out he saw deceased falling across the front wheel of the bus, which had swerved away from her. The vehicle was stationary when he saw it. - P.C. Parker, of the Exeter City Force, said that the road was 22 feet wide at the scene of the accident. He considered that anyone coming out of Stephen's-buildings could have seen traffic coming in either direction. - Robert Charles Trayhurn, of 40 Whipton-road, the driver of the bus, said he had been driving for the Corporation since the inauguration of the service in Exeter. Just before coming to Stephen's-buildings he had been beckoned on by the driver of another Corporation bus going in the opposite direction. He did not remember seeing the girl until she suddenly dashed out into the road, almost as if somebody had thrown her out. He was going at from six to eight miles per hour, as he was in third gear. When he saw the child he shouted, applied his hand and foot rakes and served the bus, but he could not avoid her. - Dr Gerrish, of the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said that the child died shortly after admission. The cause of death was shock following multiple injuries. She sustained compound fracture of the left humerus, rupture of the spleen, and injuries to the left lobe of the lungs and the left kidney. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental; Death," and exonerated the driver of the bus from blame. - On behalf of the Exeter Council, Mr Littlewood expressed sympathy with the relatives, the Coroner and Jury associating themselves with these sentiments.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 16 August 1930
TIVERTON - Children And Timber Waggons. Tiverton Coroner And Dangerous Practice. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest at Tiverton last night concerning the death of SIDNEY JOHN HEAD, the 12-year-old son of MR and MRS JAMES HEAD of 10 Blundell's-road, Tiverton, who was killed through being run over by a timber waggon on Wednesday evening. - The father said that his son often accompanied him on the waggon. On this occasion, when they were returning from Duvale, Bampton, he rode on the top of two tree trunks. Witness heard a shout, and looking back saw his son fall off under a wheel. He had always impressed on his son to ride behind the wheels. The only explanation he could put forward was that the boy knelt in order to take off his coat and fell forward. - Miss Russell, House Surgeon at the Tiverton Hospital, said that death was due to a fractured base of the skull, and must have been instantaneous. - The Coroner said it seemed to him a very dangerous practice for children to be allowed to ride on timber waggons. - The Foreman, Mr T. Kirk, said the Jury hoped that the tragedy would serve as a warning to drivers of timber waggons.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 18 August 1930
TAUNTON, SOMERSET - Fatal Shunting. Tragic End Of Culmstock Stationmaster. Tribute To Guard. - An accident during shunting at Culmstock Railway Station resulted in the death of the Stationmaster, MR HARRY BRIMICOMBE, aged 56. Deceased, who leaves a widow and seven children, formerly held a similar appointment at Longdown, near Exeter. - At the Inquest on Saturday, FREDERICK EDWIN BRIMICOMBE, son of deceased, said that since the accident his father had said that he slipped under the truck. - Dr Croote, House Surgeon at the Taunton Hospital, said that deceased was admitted suffering from extreme shock and a bad crushing of the left leg. After an operation his condition seemed satisfactory, but the following day gangrene set in and the leg was amputated just below the knee. This was followed by septicaemia, and death ensued from heart failure, the result of general blood poisoning, and directly due to the accident. - The Coroner read a report by Dr Huth, who attended deceased on the permanent way. "In my opinion," Dr Huth wrote, "much credit is due to the man who rendered first-aid." - Joseph Trenchard, railway guard, of Culmstock, said that he rendered first-aid and sent for a doctor. After the accident witness saw a shunting pole lying beside him. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Misadventure," and with the Coroner and representatives of the Railway Company the N.U.R., expressed sympathy with the widow and family and also appreciation of the excellent way in which Mr Trenchard rendered first-aid.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 18 August 1930
CHARDSTOCK (DORSET) - Winsham Lady's Head Crushed. - At Fordwater Farm, Chardstock, on Saturday, Mr C. N. Tweed, Coroner for East Devon, sitting with a Jury, conducted an Inquest concerning the death of MISS ADA ROSE TREDGER, Wynwards Cottage, Winsham, near Chard, who was fatally injured by falling under a bus while motor cycling on the main Axminster-Chard road. - Arthur Evans, of Chard, passenger in Mr Sully's bus, with which deceased collided, said the deceased was riding close to the hedge on the correct side of the road. Suddenly the motor cycle appeared to get out of control. It wobbled and struck a grating over a drain, four inches below the surface of the road. It wobbled again, and then skidded across the road. - P.C. Ash said deceased's head was flattened by the back wheels of the bus and her left leg was broken in two places. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and exonerated the driver of the bus from blame. They were of opinion that the grating was too far beneath the surface of the road.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 19 August 1930
OKEHAMPTON - Whiddon Down. - An Inquest has been held by Mr G. J. Atkinson, Deputy Coroner for the Okehampton District, concerning the death of ALFRED WOLLAND. Deceased, who was 74 years of age, lived at Martin's Farm. Mr H. W. Perryman gave evidence of identification, and said that deceased was an old servant of his uncle's. He retired, but was unhappy away from the farm and went back there to live, and did practically what he liked. On July 31st of this year he went into the loft to get some hay. As he threw the bundle through the hole he lost his balance and fell to the ground, a distance of about 6 ft. He was taken to the Okehampton Cottage Hospital on August 2nd and died there on the 17th inst. Dr K. M. Purves said that he saw deceased at the Hospital two or three days after the accident. He was suffering from partial paralysis of the lower part of the body due to a spinal injury. There was a slight improvement in the paralysis but his general condition became worse. Everything was done that could be done, and death was due to exhaustion following the spinal injury. The Deputy Coroner returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence and expressed sympathy with the relatives. Mr Perryman associated himself with the Coroner's expression and said that deceased had worked on the farm for 60 years and was a faithful servant.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 19 August 1930
EXETER - Road Fatality. Tragic Start To Londoner's Holiday. Inquest Evidence. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, on MRS ALICE DEBORAH BEARD, 47, of 50a, Little Ealing-lane, Ealing, who died shortly after a two-seater car which her husband was driving turned over at the junction of Moor-lane, near Broadclyst, with the main Honiton - Exeter road. MR BEARD sustained head and other injuries. Mr H. Linford Brown, Deputy City Coroner, sat with a Jury. - Evidence of identification was given by the husband, WILLIAM JOHN BEARD, an insurance office clerk, who said they were motoring to Torquay from Ealing. Near Broadclyst his wife drew his attention to the road to Torquay. She said, "Look, BILLY, that is the right way." He saw an A.A. man, but did not see him signal the car on. He did not expect to have to turn off for Torquay, but when his wife called his attention to the sign on the green he turned to the left. The green was slightly up, and he went over it towards the other road. As far as he could remember, he instinctively put the brakes on, and the car answered to the wheel. It shot for the opposing bank, however. There was a bit of a ditch near this bank, and one of the wheels must have gone into it and the car turned over. - The Deputy Coroner said it appeared from a sketch, that he must have gone 90 feet after striking the edge of the verge. - Witness replied that at the time he did not know it was so far. When the car overturned he could not get free until he was lifted out. His wife remained in the car also, her body almost touching him. He was going not more than about 20 miles an hour when he reached the corner. The brakes of the car were in good order. He had been driving since June and had done about 4,500 miles. - A.A. Patrol Dickers said there was not much traffic about when BEARD came along. He was going at the usual speed for the road. As he had no signal, witness signalled him on towards Exeter. BEARD, however, swung round to the left and entered Moor-lane. Witness was attending to other traffic and saw nothing more of BEARD'S car until it was upside down. The car probably went over the beginning of the grass verge, which gave it a front wheel wobble. It went around a bit too fast for a stranger who did not know the route. - Albert Turner, who resides near the scene of the accident, said the front wheel struck the edge of the grass. This caused the car to wobble. It went across the road into the ditch and turned over. - P.C. Newman said he found the front axle of the car was knocked back sufficiently to slightly affect the steering. The grass patch was four inches above the level of the road. The brakes and tyres were in perfect order. There was an A.A. sign, "Turn sharp left for Torquay" but that did not seem to have been the one MR BEARD saw, judging from his evidence. - Dr F. E. Webster, Senior House Surgeon, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said MRS BEARD was dead when he saw her immediately on arrival. She had a fracture of the base of the skull and, probably, a broken neck, in addition to other injuries. Death was due to shock following the fracture. - The Deputy Coroner said the driver evidently did not realise he had to turn until he got close to the turning. At the very worst, it was only an error of judgment on the driver's part in turning too sharply. He thought it was nothing but an accident. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and expressed sympathy with the husband, in which Mr Brown concurred.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 21 August 1930
ROBOROUGH - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at the resumed Inquest at Roborough yesterday on ADELAIDE MATILDA MARTIN, aged 18, of Stoke Cottage, Tamerton Foliot, who died from injuries sustained when a motor cycle, on which she was riding pillion, collided with a motor car, in the night of August 10, about six miles from Plymouth. James Henry Faulkner, of Crapstone, near Yelverton, the driver of the cycle, said he was dazzled by the lights of another car preceding the one with which his machine collided, and was temporarily blinded. He is still a hospital patient.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 27 August 1930
EXETER - Motor Fatality. Inquest Adjourned At Exeter. - The Inquest was opened at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, on GRAHAM CHARLES SHEPHERD, aged 26, of Council Cottages, Topsham, who died in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital as the result of injuries sustained in a collision between the motor-cycle combination he was riding and a car driven by Mr C. J. D. Horwood, 88 Felix-road, Brixton-hill, London, who was accompanied by his brother (Mr A. S. G. Horwood). The accident took place at Countess Wear Cross on Sunday morning. After evidence of identification, the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, said two very important witnesses were in London, and he had been unable to ascertain their whereabouts. He therefore proposed to adjourn the Inquest until 4 p.m. on Friday. - Evidence of identification was given by MAURICE ROBERT SHEPHERD, who said his brother was an electrician in the employ of the Exeter Corporation. He had been riding a motor-cycle combination for about two years and his sight and hearing were perfect. - Mr R. J. McGahey represented the relatives and Mr F. D. Littlewood (Assistant City Solicitor) the Exeter Corporation.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 27 August 1930
TIVERTON - More Care. Jury's Recommendation For Almshouse Inmates. Tiverton Tragedy. - What the Tiverton Borough Coroner (Mr F. R. D. Clutsom) described as the "extremely dangerous conditions" under which people live at the Greenway Almshouses, Tiverton, were the subject of a recommendation by the Jury at an Inquest last evening on MARY JANE LAND, aged 76, a widow, whose death took place at Tiverton Hospital on Monday, following burns caused through the ignition of her bedclothes at the Almshouses. - Addressing the Jury, the Coroner said the cause of death was purely accidental, but there were two important points. First, there was the general question of the structure of the premises and their inflammability. - Then there was the much larger question - and one which had arisen nearly all over the country. The almshouses were made for elderly people and it was very nice that they should be accommodated. He believed no one was admitted who was not capable of taking care of themselves, but as the years advanced they necessarily became not able to take care of themselves. - Mrs Ellen Rooks of 22 Castle-street, niece of the deceased, said the latter was very ill on Friday. The fire occurred on the Saturday. - The Coroner: There was nobody to get anything she might want? - Witness: Nobody but the lady next door, and she was not fit to do it. The place is not fit for anybody not able to look after themselves. She never should have been left after the doctor saw her. I think the doctor should have sent someone to see her. Somebody should have gone there, or she should have been removed. - The Coroner: Where? - Witness: Up to the Poor-law Institution. - The Fire. - James Hall of No. 8 Greenway Almshouses, said he acted as caretaker. Deceased had been able to look after herself until the previous Wednesday. On the Thursday she fell out of bed. He and Mrs Hemborough went to her assistance and sent for a doctor. - The Coroner: Who was there to look after her? - Witness: I don't know that there was anybody. Mrs Hemborough was in and out and Mrs McLear gave her a cup of tea. - Witness described how on Saturday morning, on seeing smoke issuing from the windows, he found the room burning furiously. MRS LAND was in bed. He could not see her for smoke, but he heard her groaning. The chest of drawers close to the bed was flaming up against the wall. He fetched water and Mrs Trude came to his assistance. - The Foreman, Mr Beecham, asked by whose orders an inmate, deemed incapable by the caretaker of looking after themselves, would be removed. - The Coroner referred the question to Dr Nicholson, who said that application for removal could be made direct to the Relieving Officer. He added: "It is the relatives' business to take care of their own kith and kin. The doctor simply comes to advise treatment and not to act as a nurse. We can recommend their removal to the Infirmary or Hospital in case of acute illness." - The Foreman: It seems it was no one's job to look after the deceased. It was only an act of kindness on the part of Mr Hall and the other inmates to do what they did. - The Coroner said it was evident that on the Friday the deceased was not in a fit condition to be left alone. - Robert Henry Trude, of 17 Brewin-road, said that on seeing smoke issuing from the windows and people looking up he went to the door and heard groans. On reaching the room he could at first see nothing but smoke, but later saw deceased on the bed with the clothes wrapped round her face. He laid her on the floor and drew her outside the door, then sending for the Fire Brigade and ambulance. The fire was still burning in two places. - The Coroner: Until you came there was no one with the sense to take charge and do the right thing. - Deceased's Statement. - Chief Constable Beynon said that the Fire Brigade, under his direction as chief officer, went to the almshouses. Later he saw the deceased, who told him she had lit the stove, it had flamed up on one side, and she had tried to put it out by knocking the wick with a newspaper. - Questioned by the Coroner on the structure of the building, he said a fire would be disastrous if it once obtained a hold. The deceased's room was decidedly better than some parts of the almshouses. At the back they were entirely of wood and a fire would be disastrous. - Mary Ellen Henborough, aged 79, of No. 21, the almshouses, said that on finding the room full of smoke she had opened the window and called "Fire!" - Dr Nicholson said deceased was suffering from old age and chronic degeneration of the heart. She was able to walk to his consulting-room. After the accident she was suffering from serious burns on the legs and temples and death was due to shock. - In reply to the Coroner he said that hitherto she had been moderately able to look after herself. Her condition was similar to that of several people, not only in the almshouses, but about the town. - The Coroner: You could not order them to the Hospital, because there is no cure for old age? - Witness: The Hospital is overcrowded already, and they are not suitable cases for hospital treatment, because there is no hope of a cure. - In further reply to the Coroner, witness said he could suggest the Infirmary, but could not compel people to go there. They had a prejudice against giving up their liberty. - Addressing the Jury, the Coroner said it was the third Inquest he had held on people at the Almshouses, and on each occasion he had been impressed by the extremely dangerous conditions under which the people lived there. - Warden's Proposals. - Mr H. W. Thorne said he and Mr J. E. Gregory were present as civil wardens for the parish. It was their duty to administer the Greenway Trust. They did not admit people under 60, and the time arrived when they became almost unable to look after themselves. He suggested that the doctor should advise the Wardens, as administrators of the Trust, when an inmate was no longer fit to be left without care. The Wardens should then endeavour to get the near relatives to be responsible, or have the power to remove inmates to the Institution, in the interests of the other inmates. He further suggested that the inmates, by contributing to the nursing fund, should become entitled to visits from the District Nurse. He expressed appreciation of the noble conduct of Mr Trude and the inmates. - The Coroner pointed out that it would be difficult to persuade the old people to contribute to the nursing fund from their limited means. He suggested that the Wardens should pay the contributions. - Mr Thorne agreed, and said the matter would be placed before the Trust. - Returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," the Jury added the following:- "The Wardens are responsible for admitting people to these places. Someone should be responsible for seeing, in addition, that they are looked after when there. They should not be simply put there to be looked after in haphazard manner by anyone with the kindness to do so. We do not want to criticise the Wardens, but we want to feel that if there are persons there not able to look after themselves it should be someone's job to look after them, either by removal or nursing facilities in their rooms." - The Coroner suggested that people admitted to the Almshouses should be requested to sign an agreement upon entry to leave if called upon at any time to do so.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 28 August 1930
EXMINSTER - Exminster Inquest. Mental Patient's Death. - At an Inquest on a patient of the Devon County Mental Institution, at Exminster, yesterday, held at the Institution, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. H. Stephens, sitting with a Jury. Dr E. C. Patterson said that the deceased, ALICE MAUD MARY FICE ELLACOTT (single) aged 53, who died on Monday, had been suffering from a wound on the scalp, about three-quarters of an inch in length, which became septic. - Dr Bambridge said when the wound became very septic, the deceased was removed to the Infirmary ward to have an incision made, but she failed to improve and died on Monday. - Nurse Baragwanath said that she was in charge of deceased at the time when the wound was inflicted. In the evening while the inmates were having tea in the dining-hall, she heard a cry, and on turning round saw a patient standing behind deceased with a broken cup in her hand, the other part being on the floor. She saw ELLACOTT was bleeding from the scalp and assured she had been struck with the cup. She had her removed for medical treatment. Corroborative evidence was given by a Sister who had treated the wound. - The Deputy Coroner pointed out that there was no direct evidence as to how the wound was inflicted.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 30 August 1930
EXETER - "Appalling Corner." Comments At Countess Wear Cross Fatality Inquest. Accidental Death. - Serious criticisms of the authorities in marking a road as a by-pass road to South Devon in order to avoid Exeter, before it had been properly widened, were made at an Inquest at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, on GRAHAM CHARLES SHEPHERD, aged 26, of Council Cottages, Topsham, an electrician in the employ of the Exeter City Council. He died in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital as the result of injuries sustained in a collision at Countess Wear Cross on Sunday morning, between his motor cycle combination and a car driven by Mr C. J. D. Horwood, 88 Felix-road, Brixton-hill, London, who was accompanied by his brother, Mr A. S. Horwood. The Inquest had been adjourned from Wednesday for the attendance of Messrs. Horwood. - The Deputy City Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, again sat with a Jury. Major Halford Thompson represented the County Police, Mr M. J. McGahey the widow, Mr F. W. Littlewood (Assistant City Solicitor) the Exeter Corporation and Mr J. C. M. Dyke, the driver and owner of the car. - Charles Pike, labourer, of Glasshouse-lane, Countess Wear, said about eight o'clock on Sunday morning he was going towards Countess Wear Cross. When nearly at the top he saw a motor cycle combination coming from Topsham. It was being driven very carefully. - He heard a tremendous bang and saw the motor cycle and box spinning over 4 or 5 times. He went towards it and saw deceased on his back in the road, three or four feet from the footpath. - Witness rendered assistance to the man. Nearer the corner he saw a motor car, which had jumped the kerb and pierced the rails on the right-hand side going towards the bridge. He saw some people come to render assistance and went on. "No one else saw the accident," said witness in reply to the Deputy Coroner. - "You heard more than saw it?" said the Deputy Coroner. - "Yes." replied witness. "I heard a tremendous bang. - The Foreman: Had you any idea of what speed the car was going? - Witness: It must have been tremendous speed, because of the bang. - The Coroner: You did not see the car and only judge the speed by the bang and what happened. Did you hear any horn sounded? - Witness: None whatever. - Like A Cannon. - Replying to Mr McGahey: The motor cyclist was driving most carefully. He had never heard a worse crash. - It was an awful one and the noise impressed him greatly. The motor cycle turned over four times, striking the ground each time. - The "box" (or side car) attached to the motor cycle was smashed and splinters were strewn all over the road. The man was in a crouched up position; he was unconscious and gasping for breath. While witness was there neither of the men who were in the car touched the deceased man. He saw them evidently looking for a telephone to send for an ambulance. - Replying to Mr Littlewood, witness said it was a quiet morning and he was certain he would have heard a horn had one been sounded. - P.C. Winter said when he saw the motor cycle after the accident it was approximately 81 feet down from the point which the driver of the car agreed was the point of impact. The car had evidently gone 71 feet from that point. He asked the driver whether or not he would care to say anything about the accident and he agreed to do so. He said:- "We were coming down the lane from Honiton to go to Torquay. We did not realise it was a cross-road until about 100 yards from it. We blew our horn and eased up and receiving no reply we started to go as anyone else would. We got half way over the crossway and the combination came straight for us and we met. The combination was carried with the car. We swerved to try and avoid it. I was driving the car." - The driver of the car had his brother as a passenger. He said:- "We were cruising down the lane at about 30 miles per hour. We saw the sign on our left; we eased up, the horn was sounded, and we approached the corner at about 18 miles per hour. Receiving no answer to our warning hoot, we continued. Suddenly there was a bang; something appeared to have struck us on the front about the near wheel. The car was swung immediately to the right and heaped up on the railings. The combination rolled over and I got out and straightened the fellow and ran to the nearest Constable for assistance and to ring for a doctor." - He added that the car was his property. Witness said he considered the motor was nearly across the cross-roads when the impact took place. The crossing was a dangerous one and there had been a number of accidents. It was an absolutely blind corner. Since Monday "Dead Slow" in big white letters had been written on all these roads. - Corner Becoming A Terror. - Replying to Mr McGahey, witness said there was a warning sign 315 feet before coming to the crossing, and the sign could be seen, but not read, 330 feet before reaching it. The car was firmly fixed in the rails 36 feet of which were damaged. - Replying to Mr Dyke, witness agreed that the tank of the combination, which was thin, sustained most damage. The majority of accidents at this spot were between vehicles coming from Topsham and Ridon-lane. - Mr Marshall, Wear Cottage, Countess Wear, described how he heard the crash when he was in his house 180 yards away. He ran up the road and saw the injured man lying on the off side, being attended by Mr Pike (the previous witness). Witness telephoned for the ambulance from the R.A.C. box. - Answering Mr McGahey, witness said the corner was becoming a terror to his wife and himself. Neither of the occupants of the car touched the deceased while witness was there. - Mr McGahey said that every week Mrs Marshall had to assist after accidents. He would like her to be commended. - The Deputy Coroner said that helped to enforce his argument that the corner where the accident occurred was exceedingly dangerous. The authorities since the accident had marked the place. - It was an appallingly dangerous corner, which should be opened up a great deal more than it was. The signs, both on the opposite side of the road and in Ridon-lane should be more distinct than they were. - The trees at the garage formed a screen to prevent people from seeing the R.A.C. box or the dangerous crossing on the other side. - Mrs Marshall gave evidence as to hearing a loud crash and going to give assistance with only her nightdress and mackintosh on. There were many accidents on the road. She had provided a large quantity of linen in dealing with people injured in accidents. She thought the R.A.C. box should provide linen pads. - Mr McGahey said SHEPHERD'S widow wished to thank Mrs Marshall sincerely for all she had done. Replying to the Coroner, Mr Dyke said he did not propose to put either the driver or his brother in the box at that stage. Their statements had already been given in evidence by the Policeman. - Dr Wilkie, House Surgeon, R.D. and E. Hospital, attributed death to severe shock and concussion. - "Dangerous And Unfair." - The Deputy Coroner reminded the Jury that there was a great distinction between what was known as civil and criminal liability from death by negligence. There was a vast difference between the negligence which constituted manslaughter. The negligence which was necessary to commit the offence of manslaughter must be such gross negligence as would show such disregard for life and the safety of others as to be a crime against the State and to deserve imprisonment. The Jury must carefully consider whether there was any evidence before them of such gross culpable criminal negligence on the part of the driver of that car. He thought it was unfortunate that the driver had not gone into the box, because he might possibly have explained more lucidly than he explained in the statement to the Constable. But they had in the Constable's evidence the statements made by the driver and his brother, who was in the car with him. They seemed to be clear statements by those two men that one would expect from them, and a reasonable explanation of what happened. Continuing, Mr Brown said: "I do question whether it is a wise thing and a correct thing before we have a proper by-pass road to bring motorists, who are unused to our turns and twists, and without warning take them off the main road in order to avoid Exeter and make them take those winds and twists and turns without marking the road at any place except a hundred yards from the entrance to Topsham-road. - It is a dangerous and unfair position without any warning for them to have to leave the main road and to get across a veritable death trap like Topsham-road." - The words "dead slow" should have been written on those roads before and not after the accident. - There was also the matter of the improvement of the corner of Ridon-lane, and if the Jury said anything about that, it might have the effect of getting something done. - Vote Of Censure. - The Jury consulted in private for about ten minutes. On their return the Foreman said they were unanimously of opinion that the deceased met his death Accidentally. "At the same time," he added, "we wish a letter of censure to be written to the Authorities for not having enough signs, and particularly plain signs at the corner of Ridon-lane." - The Coroner: You wish to draw the attention of the Authorities to the matter? - The Foreman: Yes. - Mr Littlewood extended the deep sympathy of the Corporation on the fact that a man in their employ had been killed while doing his duty. - The Deputy Coroner said he desired to extend his sympathy, and he was sure the Jury desired to do so also, towards the relatives of the deceased. No one who had listened to the evidence could help feeling sympathy not only with the deceased, but the people he had left behind. - Mr Dyke said he was instructed both by the driver of the car and his brother to express their sincere regret that they should have been involved in the matter.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 2 September 1930
TIVERTON - "Caught Her Sole." Fatal Fall At Tiverton. - Tiverton Borough Coroner, Mr F. R. D. Clutsom, last evening held an Inquest on MISS JANE COOMBE, aged 78, of Belmont-terrace, Tiverton, who died from erysipelas following injury to her left elbow by a fall on the pavement outside her residence on August 8th. Nobody witnessed the fall, but deceased told a neighbour that she "caught her sole" in the pavement. This was stated to be in need of repair. - Dr Hamilton said that the injury might have been trifling in the case of a young person. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 4 September 1930
SHALDON - Found Drowned. Missing Shaldon Woman. - The body washed ashore at Torcross on Monday has been identified as that of MRS JESSIE SLATER of 7 Albion-street, Shaldon, a widow, aged 78. - At the Inquest held by Mr G. Windeatt, Mrs Ella G. Fogwill said the deceased had been depressed because she felt she was growing old and unable to do her laundry work. She had no financial worries. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Found Drowned."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 17 September 1930
BRANSCOMBE - A verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was returned at an Inquest at Branscombe on CHARLES PERRYMAN, aged 42, of Seaside Farm, Barnscombe. He was found hanging in an outbuilding by his wife. It was stated that deceased had been worried of late over business matters and the state of his health.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 17 September 1930
EXETER - Fatal Fall. How Exeter Man Met His Death. Inquest Evidence. - "Accidental Death" was the verdict returned by the Coroner, Mr G. H. Stephens, at an Inquest conducted at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, on WILLIAM HENRY HOER, 73, of 21 Ware's Buildings, who died as the result of falling off a ladder when oiling machinery at Messrs. Willey and Company's works, Haven-road, early on Monday morning. The directors of Messrs. Willey and Co. were represented by Mr G. Lane and Mr W. J. K. Cook. H.M. Inspector of Factories watched the proceedings on behalf of the Home Office. - JIM HOER, of 22 Buller-road, Exeter, said his father enjoyed good health and was quite active for his age. He was employed for overhauling belting and machinery. When witness was informed his father had met with a serious accident he went to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, where he found him lying unconscious with a fracture of the base of the skull. He died at 6.10 p.m. - Frank Lockyear of 29 Old Tiverton-road, a machine worker, said deceased was always at work when he arrived at 7.30 a.m. When he arrived on the morning of the accident, he was at work on a ladder, standing half-way up with a belt in his hand. Five minutes later he heard the sound of a fall and found deceased lying at the foot of the ladder with the belt twisted round his head and neck. He was bleeding from the back of the head, and was unconscious. Witness sent a man for help, and with assistance removed deceased to the ambulance room. - By the Foreman of the Jury (Mr J. T. Gammon): He spoke to deceased on arrival but received no reply. The foot of the ladder rested on concrete and the ladder was against the wall. There was nothing to make the ladder shaky and the belt could easily be handled by one man. There was no possibility of the machinery moving. - Mr Cook: There was no chance of the engine starting? - Witness: No. - Dr Webster, Senior House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said on admission deceased was bleeding from the left ear and a scalp wound. Death was due to a fracture of the base of the skull. He never regained consciousness. - In returned the verdict, the Coroner expressed sympathy with the widow and relatives. Mr Lane, on behalf of Messrs. Willey's, associated himself with these remarks and said they were deeply grieved that deceased should have met with such an untimely end. He had given fine service to the firm.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 19 September 1930
PLYMOUTH - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest at Plymouth on MRS BESSIE DOWN, of Stonehouse, who died from injuries through being knocked down by a motor car driven by Capt. G. E. Vosper, of Thornton-hill, Exeter. The driver was exonerated from all blame.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 29 September 1930
TAVISTOCK - A verdict "That death was due to Suffocation from falling in long grass while unconscious following an epileptic fit" was returned by the Tavistock County Coroner, Mr A. K. G. Johnstone, at an Inquest on HAROLD JAMES DRISCOLL, of Oreston.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 1 October 1930
MORCHARD BISHOP - Morchard Bishop Mystery. Quarryman Found Dead In Stream. Inquest Adjourned. - The Inquest on ROBERT PHILIP HUTCHINGS of Morchard Bishop, who was found dead in a stream near Bugmore Quarry, was adjourned by the Coroner, Mr G. H. Stephens yesterday owing to the fact that the contents of the man's stomach had not been analysed. Mr Stephens said he was forced to take this course in order to get rid of the possibility that deceased died through poisoning. It was in the best interests of justice. - Mr C. T. Chevallier represented the County Council (owners of the quarry and employers of deceased)( and Mr F. N. Siddall, Inspector of Mines, was also present. - ERNEST SAMUEL EDWORTHY, brother-in-law of deceased's wife, gave evidence of identification. Deceased was employed in drilling at the quarry. He last saw him alive just after 11 on Friday night. He also saw him at about 5.30 p.m., when they discussed a meeting they were to attend that night. Deceased said, "I am lucky to be able to go, because I have had an accident and fell between 32 ft. and 35 ft.! He explained that he had been working on a ledge at the quarry when the drill he was using kicked, the point of it going backwards, so that he fell headlong. He told witness he saved himself from falling heavily by catching hold of a piece of rock and turning himself round. Witness asked him if he had any injury and deceased told him he was all right except for a felling of stiffness in the calf of one of his legs. He refused to see a doctor unless he got worse. About 12.15 on the following day witness was told by a quarryman that deceased was dead. He went to the quarry and saw the body on the bank of the river lying on a stretcher. Deceased was in good health up to the time of his death, had never threatened to take his life, and had no serious trouble. - Mr Chevallier: Are you aware that during the past two weeks he had some trouble he thought serious enough to go to the Police about? - Witness: He had been accused of writing a postcard to another quarryman's wife. He told me the card was posted at Weston, where the quarrymen went for their outing, but he did not go. He seemed more annoyed than troubled. - Fall of 33 Feet. - Alfred Phillips, working foreman at the quarry, said that on Friday morning he helped deceased to mount with his drill and air-pipe to a point 33 ft. above the ground. Drilling had always been a one-man job, and as deceased was a reliable, trustworthy workman he was allowed to work alone. Witness was called away, and later heard a shout. Looking round, he saw deceased rising from the ground. Witness asked whether deceased was hurt, and received the reply, "I don't think so; I'll have a look in a minute." Witness went to him and seeing that he was shaken, advised him to rest in the hut, which he did. Witness put him on light work during the afternoon. The following morning deceased re-started work, telling witness he was as fit as ever. He took his drill and started a 10 foot bore-hole to undercut a block of rock. This was successfully blasted, deceased remarking that the job was one of the best they had ever done. Witness then set him to work on another ledge 15 feet from the ground, at the sump of the quarry, in a safe position, where witness left him drilling at 11 a.m. Witness heard that he was missing at 12, after the cease work whistle had blown, but expected to find him in the blacksmith's shop. He was not there, and witness formed a search party which fruitlessly scoured the nearby wood. They then went to the river, 80 or 100 yards away from the quarry, where the body was found. The face was about six inches under the water, the left hand grasping a root in the bank. The water at the spot was 4 ft. 2 in. deep. To get his body out they had to cut away some roots. Artificial respiration was tried without avail. The reason witness organised a search was because deceased's dinner bag and cycle were still at the quarry. - A Juryman: Was there a rumour in the town that he had said, "If anyone gave me £5 I would do it again?" Witness: He said that in a joking sort of way. - Death Not Due To Drowning. - Continuing, witness said that the ledge on which deceased had been working when he fell was 12 ft. by 18 ft, sloping gently towards the rock. Deceased would be working about 4 ft. from the edge. A safety rope was provided as required by law. - Charles Stentiford, another quarryman, said that on the day of deceased's death he heard his drill stop and saw deceased make towards the woods. - Edward Victor Staddon, steam-waggon driver, said that deceased was lying on his back under water holding the rambles with his hand. - Dr Pratt, of Morchard, said when he saw the body at 1.30 it was not then cold. He conducted an autopsy with Dr Jackson (Crediton), and found that there were no serious external or internal injuries. The lungs were quite devoid of water and floated when immersed, so that deceased could not have died by drowning. If deceased had died before entering the water witness would have expected to find the body in such a condition. All the internal organs were normal. The stomach had been retained. Shock caused by the previous day's accident might have caused heart failure. - The Inquest was adjourned until Tuesday, October 28th.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 2 October 1930
DAWLISH - Road Accident Death. Dawlish Inquest. - Mr E. Hutchings, County Coroner, sitting with a Jury at the Vestry Hall, Dawlish, last night, held an Inquest on FREDERICK JOHN MELHUISH, who died at Dawlish Cottage Hospital on Tuesday night. Mr W. G. Carter was Foreman of the Jury. - Evidence of identification was given by JOHN MELHUISH (father). - Brian Sydney Charles Edmonds, 3 Oakhill Cottages, Dawlish, who was riding pillion on the motor cycle, said that they were returning from Okehampton along the Moreton - Bovey road, travelling from 20 to 25 miles an hour. In taking a corner about two or three miles from Bovey Tracey the lights of the cycle went out and they crashed into a wall. Witness was thrown into the road, and deceased fell off some distance away. In reply to the Coroner, witness said he had ridden behind deceased several times. - Dr Charles Edward Henry Maycroft, Dawlish, said that MELHUISH was suffering from shock and serious injuries to the knee. Later he and his partner performed an operation and cleaned the wound. Two days later deceased's condition became worse and he died on September 30th. Witness attributed death to heart failure and septicaemia. - The Coroner read a letter from Dr Arnott of Bovey Tracey, stating that he attended deceased when admitted to the Bovey Hospital. Deceased was removed to Dawlish Hospital at his own request. - The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, with no blame to anyone.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 6 October 1930
TAVISTOCK - "Drunken Paddy." - Tavistock Inquest. - Mr A. K. G. Johnstone, District County Coroner, opened and adjourned an Inquest at Tavistock on Saturday concerning the death of a tramp who was found dead in the River Tavy near West Bridge, Tavistock on Thursday. - P.C. Bedford said that among other things found on the body was a pedlar's certificate, issued at Launceston on March 24th. The name given on it was JOHN O'BRIEN, of Truro. He was known among the tramping fraternity as "Drunken Paddy." - The Inquest was adjourned until Saturday.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 10 October 1930
TORQUAY - A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was returned at an Inquest on CAROLINE HOLE, 48, domestic servant, of 9 Wellswood Park, Torquay, whose body was found at the foot of the cliff at Long Quarry, Babbacombe. A note read: "My darling sister, - I am going to Wall's Hill. Forgive me, my beloved. It is all my fault and I would not let you know how I suffered. I can't bear you to work so heard."

Western Times, Friday 10 October 1930 NEWTON POPPLEFORD - Newton Poppleford Sensation. A Small Holder Found Hanging. Inquest Story. - MR WALTER PRING, aged 73, retired small-holder, of Goosemore, Newton Poppleford, was discovered hanging from the bannister of the stairs in the cottage he occupied. It appears that Mr E. Stone, dairyman, who had been in the habit of calling at the cottage about 8 a.m. daily, was unable to obtain admittance, and his suspicions being aroused he immediately informed P.C. Doherty, who obtained entrance to the house and there discovered deceased hanging by some strands of cord. - He at once cut the rough cords, only to find life had been extinct for some time. - Deceased had been in the habit of living alone. - Mr C. N. Tweed, Coroner for East Devon, held an Inquest at Newton Poppleford. - MRS LETTIE MARY ANN HATHERLEY, wife of ERNEST HATHERLEY, of Lustleigh, identified the body as that of her father, who was a market gardener. About five years ago he was taken to the Devon Mental Hospital at Exminster after he had threatened to take his life. - Eric Francis Stone, farmer, of Goosemore, Newton Poppleford, said he delivered milk to deceased's house every morning. Witness went there on Wednesday morning as usual, knocked at the door of the house and getting no answer fetched a Police Constable. Witness accompanied the officer back to the house, where the dead body of MR PRING was found hanging from the bannisters, a rope being round his neck. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said he noticed nothing peculiar about the deceased when he shaved him on Tuesday. - The Coroner: You are a barber as well as a farmer then? - Witness: Yes. The old man could not do it himself and I used to shave him once a week. - P.C. Doherty said he found strands of cord round deceased's neck tied to the bannisters. The man had been dead for several hours. - Dr Traill, Ottery St Mary, said he had known deceased for several years. About four years ago witness certified deceased. Witness saw PRING recently and he appeared to be much better and certainly more cheerful. Death was due to strangulation. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 14 October 1930
LONDON - Mother's Instinct. - Dr F. J. Waldo, City Coroner, Inquiring into the death of RICHARD EDWARD MUSSELWHITE, the six-months-old son of a staff-sergeant in the Royal Artillery at Plymouth, was informed by the father that the mother was worried because the child did not notice her. Instinct told her that the child did not look at her as he should have done. The boy, continued Sergeant MUSSELWHITE, was taken to a specialist at Plymouth, who said that there was a growth at the back of each eye. Radium treatment was prescribed and at St Bartholomew's Hospital the child was given an anaesthetic for the insertion of "Radon seeds" into the growths. The operation had been completed when he died. - Dr E. G. Recordon, ophthalmic house surgeon, said that was the fourth operation of the kind in the Hospital. - Sir Bernard Spilsbury said the cause of death was asphyxia. The child was suffering from congenital glycoma in both eyes. The operation had been skilfully performed. Radon had been used in cases of cancer, but for the eyes in was a new departure. - The Coroner recorded a verdict of Death by Misadventure.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 14 October 1930
SIDMOUTH - Tragic Visit. The Sidmouth Drowning Case. Dramatic Evidence. - The circumstances attending the death of MISS VERA ROSE WELLINGTON, aged 18 ½, of 73 Bonhay-road, Exeter, who was drowned at Sidmouth on Friday, were disclosed at an Inquest conducted by Mr C. N. Tweed, Coroner for East Devon, at Sidmouth Police Station yesterday morning. Deceased was in the company of Mr A. J. Docker, her fiancé, on the Chit Rocks. They were cut off by the tide, and endeavoured to reach the shore. - Mr Cook was elected Foreman of the Jury of seven. - RALPH FRANK WELLINGTON, father of the deceased, railway clerk, gave evidence of identification. He last saw his daughter alive in Bonhay-road on Friday, when she said she was going to Sidmouth Junction to meet Mr Docker. The couple were not engaged, but had been keeping company for 18 months and were on the best of terms. Deceased was employed as a shop assistant. "A Girl's Out There." - Thomas Salt, of the Victoria Hotel, Sidmouth, steward, said he was sitting on the Esplanade, near the Belmont Hotel, about 7 o'clock on Friday evening, when he heard cries which he at first attributed to seagulls. He then noticed several people running along the promenade in an excited state. Witness next heard a man's cries for help and went to the top of the sea wall, but could see nothing. He then went to the Victoria shelter, looked down to the sea, and saw Docker on the steps just out of the water. He was not knocked out, but pretty well dazed. Witness dragged him on to the top of the steps. Docker said, "A girl's out there," pointing to the Chit Rocks. He also said "A big wave came over and I never saw her after that." - Answering the Coroner, witness said he had seen the sea rougher, but it was by no means calm and the waves were breaking heavily. Witness asked Docker to walk along by the slipway, but the latter said he could not face it, so witness hoisted him up to the fence, where another helper, named Channing, assisted him over. - The Foreman: You saw nothing of the poor girl? - Witness: No. I looked, but could see nothing of her. - Mr Fitzgerald (a Juryman): Docker made no suggestions about rescuing the girl? - Witness: I think he was too far gone. - Too Rough For Boat. - P.C. Knowles said that when he saw Docker the latter was very distressed, but gathered from him that a young lady had been washed out to sea. The backwash on the beach was tremendous. P.C. Radford kept observation throughout the night. - The Coroner: It was too rough to take out a rowing boat? - Witness: Yes. - And you have no lifeboat? - No. - Cyril Roy Channing, of Homedene, Home Dale, Sidmouth, a plumber, said Docker was so dazed that he had to support him, but by the time they reached the house where Docker received attention he could stand. - Reginald James Pike, 16 of Rolle Farm, Sidbury, milkman, said he was walking along the beach near the Alma Bridge at 2 o'clock on Saturday when he saw a body at the edge of the water. Witness waited until the waves went back and then caught hold of the body by the shoulders and dragged it ashore. He then informed the Police. The body was fully clothed, including a big fur overcoat. - Dr Marshall, of Sidmouth, spoke to examining MISS WELLINGTON at the Mortuary at 4.30 on Saturday. There were sand and shingle in the clothing, the face was bruised slightly and the nose and ears had bled. Death was due to drowning. - Docker's Evidence. - Arthur John Docker, of Penrose, Beacon-lane, Whipton, Exeter, booking clerk at Sidmouth Junction, said he arranged to meet deceased at Sidmouth Junction, which they left by the 2.10 train. On arrival at Sidmouth they went to the Esplanade. It was the first time he had seen the front in daylight. They went to the top of Salcombe-hill, descended, and walked across to the Western End. From there they walked down a slipway on to the beach. It was just after four o'clock and several people were there. Noticing pools of water and the wet sand witness came to the conclusion that the tide was going out. "We decided to spend the time until tea by strolling around the cliffs," continued the witness. "We went around a projecting cliff near the Chit Rocks and sat down for five minutes. The sand was wet and we moved back. The young lady had a play with her in which she was to take part, and we both looked at that for about half an hour. - It struck me that the rocks in front of us were more submerged than they had been, and I realised that the tide was rising. That was about 4.30, and I told the young lady we should have to get back to town. We left the recess we were in and attempted to get through along the beach, but the water came up to our knees and so we went back to another recess." - The Coroner: You could have got through then with only a wetting? - Witness: Yes, as I found out subsequently. There was no signboard or anything to show the place was dangerous at high tide, and there was a line of pebbles on the beach which I took for high tide mark. I said to her, "It will be better to wait for an hour than to go through and get wet." - Washed Off By Wave. - We were standing on a ledge for over an hour - until it was dark. The waves threatened to wash us off, and we decided to make another attempt, and so we got down to the beach and crept along the base of the cliff with her backs to the sea. Then a heavy wave swept us both off our feet. I got hold of the young lady and started to swim with her. The tide carried us around the point and against the wall; then another heavy wave came and dashed us against the wall. By that time I was exhausted and numb with cold, and I lost my grip. I could not see her, but shouted to her to swim on her back. - I was thrown on the steps and sucked back by the backwash. I don't know any more until I felt myself being dragged off the steps. Witness added that deceased could swim 50 yards and himself half a mile. Answering the Coroner, witness said they did not undress because they did not expect to have a long swim. When taken from the water he kept on saying the girl was in the water. A fisherman, named Salter, told him that nothing could be done for the girl, and he went to the house of Guard Phillips, whom he knew. - Mr Fitzgerald: Did you make any suggestion about saving her yourself? - Witness: No. - You did not think of her? - Certainly I did; my first words were about her. - Mr W. Martin (another Juryman): Under the circumstances, I suppose you would have used a lot of consideration before you took your clothes off? - Yes. - P.S. Champion asked if witness thought of escaping on the Jacob's Ladder side. - Witness replied that all he could see in that direction was rough sea. - P.S. Champion: You did not think of swimming for assistance? - Witness: She was a highly-strung girl, and I could not leave her. I was not afraid of the water, but I did not realise it was so serious until too late. - A Juryman remarked that in any case a boat could not have been launched. - Coroner's Comments - The Coroner, summing up, said that as to what happened before the unfortunate occurrence they had only Docker's evidence to rely upon, and it was for the Jury to say whether they credited his story, which was an unusual and most extraordinary one. Why the couple did not go on at the first attempt was quite amazing. Docker said - and possibly that might be a fact - that he thought the tide had reached high water mark. He behaved in an incredibly silly manner. He could easily have got back in time and the fatality would never have happened. The Jury did not appear satisfied whether Docker did all he could after he was rescued. He said he was told, by what he thought to be a competent authority, that further effort was useless. There was no lifeboat at Sidmouth, and it was for the Jury to say whether a rowing boat should have gone out. - After deliberation the Jury returned a verdict that death was due to Accidental Drowning, and added that they considered that had Docker endeavoured to go round the point the first time the fatality would not have occurred. They sympathised with the relatives. - The Coroner concurred with the verdict, and said that Docker's foolishness was due, probably, to his youth and the fact that he lost his head. The Coroner and P.S. Champion associated themselves with the Jury's expression of condolence.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 18 October 1930
SHEEPSTOR - Manchester Man's Death. - An Inquest has been held at Burrator Lodge, near Sheepstor, on AUBREY DRAPKIN, aged 21, of Wellington House, Wellington-road, Fallowfield, Manchester. - Mr G. Shillibeer, water-bailiff of Burrator Cottage, said he found an overcoat on some railings on the banks of Burrator Lake. In it, among other articles, was a copy of Hall Caine's novel "The Deemster," and a letter. In consequence he communicated with the Police, and the body of a young man was eventually located by the use of grappling irons. - (The letter was not read out in Court.) - MR ALFRED DRAPKIN, of Wellington-road, Fallowfield, gave evidence of identification, and said his son was a B.A. in commerce at Manchester University. - Dr W. H. Waterfield, Union-street, Plymouth, said that in his opinion the body had been in the waster for about four or five days, and that death had taken place through asphyxia by drowning. There were no marks of violence. MR DRAPKIN had come to him previously in Plymouth on Wednesday, October 6th, complaining of pains. He had seemed concerned about his heart, which he thought was weak, but witness assured him that it was perfectly sound. He informed witness that he was returning to Princetown, where he had been staying while on a walking tour. He had mentioned that he had got no money, but took witness's address in order that he might send it. - Sergt. Potter said deceased arrived at Princetown on October 7th and did not know anyone. On October 9th he left the Prince of Wales Hotel, where he had been staying, saying he was going for a long walk, and would like a hot dinner when he returned in the evening. He never returned. - The Deputy Coroner returned a verdict of "Accidental Death due to Asphyxia through Drowning."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 20 October 1930
EXETER - Worn Brake. Shobrooke Youth's Death After Collision. Girl's Escape. - Mr Hamilton L. Brown, Deputy City Coroner, with the assistance of a Jury, conducted an Inquest on EDWIN GILL, of Shobrooke, who died in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital following injuries in a motor collision at Coppice-lane, Sandford, on October 12th. - EDWIN GILL, farm labourer, of Little Silver Cottage, Shobrooke, identified the body as that of his son, aged 23, also a farm labourer, who resided with him. Deceased had had four years' experience of motor cycling. The last machine he bought, four months ago, was second-hand. - P.C. Turner (Sandford) said the rear brake of the motor cycle was of the rim type, and was so worn that the lever could not be operated by the heel. The foot would have to be taken from the rest and the lever depressed several inches. - In an emergency it was practically useless. - The road, which was not much used by motor traffic was 11 ft. wide from hedge to hedge, but the metal was 8 ft. 6 in. There were skid marks of the motor cycle on the wrong side of the road. The corner was a very bad one, but deceased should have had a vision of 45 ft. if he was on the correct side. There were blood marks on the car headlamps where deceased's head struck it. - Miriam Eliza Tompkins, of West Sandford, who was riding pillion on deceased's machine, said they were going very steady through the lane, as the machine would not go fast. On approaching the corner deceased slackened speed and sounded his horn. He was travelling in the middle of the road. Suddenly the car came into view. "I suppose he didn't know what to do, and went on the wrong side," said witness. She remembered getting up from under the cycle. The car was going at a fairly steady speed. - Alfred Madge, farmer, of Down Farm, Stockleigh English, the driver of the car, said he was going so steadily that when the impact occurred the car stopped dead. He could not swear to sounding his horn, although it was customary for him to do so at corners. He had no time to do anything because deceased was on him suddenly, at what seemed a considerable speed. - Dr F. E. Webster, House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said deceased was suffering from concussion when admitted, but improved until Tuesday, when he became worse and died on Friday from meningitis. - A verdict of "Accidental Death, in accordance with the medical evidence," was returned, and the driver of the car exonerated from blame.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 21 October 19130
TIVERTON - The Borough Coroner, Mr F. R. Clutsom, yesterday returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" at an Inquest on EMMA TOWNSEND, aged 89, of Chapel-street, who fell on the staircase in her house.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 22 October 1930
EXETER - Rope Of Thread. Romford Man's Suicide In Exeter Prison. Tragedy Explained. - "This is a most unusual Inquiry," said Mr H. W. Gould, District Coroner, in opening an Inquest at H.M. Prison, Exeter, yesterday, on ERNEST WILLIAM ROGERS, who was found hanging in his cell on Monday. Mr Gould was assisted by a Jury of seven, of whom Mr H. C. Gould was elected Foreman. The deceased was a native of Romford, Essex, aged 34, and sentenced at Devon Quarter Sessions to 12 months' hard labour for housebreaking and larceny at Torrington. - Francis Stephenson, chief officer of the Prison, identified the body. When admitted deceased appeared to be quite normal. - Punished For Insolence. - The Coroner: You had no reason to suspect that he had suicidal tendencies? - Witness: None whatever. He had been punished once for insolence and using filthy language on October 3rd - two days after admission. His punishment consisted of two days No. 1 (bread and water) and 42 additional first stage marks. Prisoners had to go through certain stages, and the addition of marks meant he would have to start at the bottom again. He also had to forfeit 35 remission marks. His employment had been the manufacture of mail-bags. For the first 14 days deceased did this in his cell and on the 15th day joined other prisoners in a workshop. They worked for eight hours during the day, and again from 5.30 to 8 in the evening. The prisoners were allowed to take scissors, thimble and needle into their cell and had their unfinished and fresh work with them. On Sunday deceased attended chapel twice and took exercise once. Witness saw him during the day, and he was normal and made no complaints. The cell was locked between 7.45 and 8 p.m., and was again inspected between 8 and 9 o'clock, when lights were extinguished. Officer Wills reported to witness the following morning that deceased had been found hanging from his cell window. Witness went to the cell and found deceased had been cut down, and that Officer Wills was attempting artificial respiration. There was no sign of life, and the body, which was clothed in shirt and trousers, was almost cold. - The Discovery. - Frederick Hawkins, night patrol, said he went to deceased's cell at 9.10 p.m. and every hour subsequently, his last visit being 4.50. By the light of his bull's-eye witness saw deceased was in bed and, apparently, asleep. - Albert Frank Wills, Prison Officer, said he came on duty at 6.45 on Monday morning. He unlocked deceased's cell last, and saw him hanging from the cell window. The body was suspended by a rope of mail-bag threads attached to the bottom bar outside the window. Deceased had, apparently, reached the window by a stool, which he afterwards kicked away. - Dr C. N. Lovely, Prison Doctor, said he arrived soon after 7 o'clock. Life was extinct and he should say death had occurred two hours previously from strangulation. Witness examined deceased several times in the course of routine, but found nothing to suggest mental abnormality. - Coroner's Tribute. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind." - "I am bound to say," observed the Coroner, "that during the many years of my experience, this is the first time any prisoner has been found in a similar condition here. It shows the care and supervision which are given in these Institutions. The day comes, however, when the unforeseen happens." Mr Gould paid a tribute to Officer Wills for his prompt action. - The Jury concurred.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 23 October 1930
SAMPFORD COURTENAY - "Going To Get Out." Tragic Death Of Sampford Courtenay Farmer. - Mr H. C. Brown, Coroner for the Okehampton District, held an Inquest yesterday at the Courtenay Railway Hotel, Sampford Courtenay, concerning the death of EDWARD JAMES ENDACOTT, aged 48, of Higher Corscombe Farm, Sampford Courtenay, who was found dead on the line. - P.C. Mugridge, Okehampton, identified the body. Describing the finding of the body, witness said that it was lying on the up track, outside the outer rail and the head was on the ballast between the rails. A letter was found marked: "Let Mr Watts have this." - The Coroner read extracts from the letter, in which deceased stated that he was going to get out and was sorry if he caused any trouble. The remainder of the letter contained directions as to his effects. - A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was returned. Western Times, Friday 24 October 1930 - Additional information: - "He was about 55 years of age. He leaves three children and had just recently buried his second wife. The funeral takes place on Friday."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 27 October 1930
EXETER - Child's Death. Inquiry Into Exeter Street Accident. Warning Unheard. - How a 'bus driver foresaw an accident but was unable to warn the victim, was related to the Deputy City Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, at an Inquest at Exeter on Saturday, concerning the death of MARWOOD REGINALD WENSLEY, aged four years, and 10 months. He ran from behind a Corporation 'bus in Alphington-street, on Thursday while returning from Union-street School, was hit by a motor car and died in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital the same evening. - Mr R. J. McGahey represented the car driver. Mr Lee was elected Foreman of the Jury. - JOSEPH WINFIELD of 1 Percy-road, St Thomas, identified the body as that of his grandson, and son of REGINALD WENSLEY, a G.P.O. telephone employee. The child was accustomed to go to school by himself and after the first few attendances was determined to go by himself, being older by disposition than his years. Francis Reynolds of 4 Hawthorn-road, Burnt House-lane, a Corporation 'bus driver, said he stopped in Alphington-street on Thursday to pick up two passengers, drawing up to within 18 inches of the kerb 40 or 50 feet on the Alphington side of Princes-street East. He saw a boy standing on the kerb make as though to cross and then wait until the 'bus halted. "The boy then went across the road in front of my 'bus, and ran right into the car," said witness. - "I saw the car coming from behind in my driving mirror, and I shouted, but the windows of my cabin were closed and the boy, apparently, did not hear." - Witness judged the car's speed at 15-25 miles an hour. It was not excessive, and the driver swerved across to the other side of the road. The road was clear except for another Corporation 'bus approaching from Exeter. - Mr McGahey: Can you suggest anything that could have been done to avoid the child? - No, it was impossible to have done anything. - P.C. Eley said there were brake marks 48 feet in length from the point of impact to where the car came to rest. - Robert Charles Trayhurn, driver of the 'bus going towards Reynolds' 'bus said the child was hit the same instant as he stepped from behind the 'bus. Answering the Foreman, witness said there was plenty of room in the road, and there was no question of speeding up to pass. - Gerald Hugh Wilkinson of 9 Prince's-buildings, Clifton, Bristol, inspector to an insurance company, said he was driving his car towards Exeter, at not more than 25 miles an hour. Neither was he going less than 20 miles an hour. Witness did not "hug" the 'bus, allowing a margin of two or three feet, but the child ran right in front of him. Had the child been further forward he would have seen him. Witness locked his brakes and swerved to the other side of the road. - Dr Webster, House Surgeon of the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said the deceased was suffering from fractures of the base of the skull and right leg when admitted. Death was due to the severe fracture of the skull. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated the driver of the car from blame. - Mr Wilkinson expressed his extreme distress at the occurrence even though it was beyond his control. - The Coroner and Jury also sympathised with the relatives.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 28 October 1930
YEOVIL, SOMERSET - Misadventure. Plymouth Girl In Somerset Road Crash. A Dangerous Spot. - The Inquest on the girl pillion rider, MISS EMILY MURRAY of 49 Palace-street, Plymouth, and employed at a printing works at Paulton, Somerset, who was killed in a motor cycling accident near Yeovil, was held yesterday, and a verdict of "Death from Misadventure" was returned. The girl and a young man named Reginald Hodges Riggs, of Yeovil, employed at the same works, had attended a dance at Yeovil and were returning to Paulton in the early hours of the morning when the accident happened. - Dr E. C. Faraker, who was summoned to the scene of the accident, said that he found the girl dead. The motor cyclist was very cold and appeared to be unconscious. On speaking to him, however, he replied to witness's questions. He asked where the girl was and complained of great pain in his right shoulder. He was removed to Yeovil Hospital. The girl had been dead from four to six hours. - Dr Godfrey Carter, pathologist, of Curry Revel, said that the girl died from concussion and laceration of the brain associated with a long branching fracture of the skull from the left ear forward and upward. - The Coroner said the motor cyclist remembered that at the Yeovil side of Ilchester his lights went out and he did not remember anything else, except picking himself and the motor cycle up. He was quite clear about that. On his (the Coroner's) instructions Riggs was asked this question, "Did you hit any other vehicle?" to which the answer was "No." - The Jury returned a verdict as stated. Reference was made to the fact that the spot where the accident happened was a very dangerous one, and a rider was added that the attention of the County Council be drawn to it.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 28 October 1930
DAWLISH - Washed Up By Sea. Teignmouth Lady's Suicide. - The Deputy South Devon Coroner, Mr G. Windeatt, conducted an Inquest at the Vestry Hall, Dawlish, yesterday, concerning the death of MRS ISABEL RENDELL of 5 Coombe-road, Teignmouth, whose body was found between Spray Point and Smugglers'-lane on Sunday. - FREDERICK GEORGE RENDELL said his wife was 42. He last saw her alive at 6.20 p.m. on Saturday. He went out for about 20 minutes and on his return she was not there. He went to see if she had visited a friend, but found she had not. His wife had been ill for several years, and had had medical attention, and, in consequence, had been very depressed. She had never given him cause to think she would take her life. There was no letter or note of explanation. - Dr B. Thurlow, of Dawlish, said there was no evidence on the body to throw any light on the tragedy. - A verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily of Unsound Mind" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 29 October 1930
TOPSHAM - Mystery Solved. Inquest On Body Found In Exeter Canal. Coroner's Verdict. - The mystery surrounding the body found in Exeter Canal, near Double Locks, on Saturday, was cleared up at the Inquest at Double Locks Hotel yesterday, when the body was identified as that of JOHN LE MARE ARROWSMITH, a retired cinema manager aged about 65, who lodged at 8 Park-place, Exeter. A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was returned by the Deputy District Coroner, Mr G. H. Stephens. - Mrs Mary Sercombe of 8 Park-place, Exeter, ARROWSMITH'S landlady, said he left the house on Friday morning, saying he was going to the seaside for a breath of fresh air, but did not say when he would return. He did not seem worried or depressed. He had lodged with witness on and off for two years, and was in the habit of going away for a few days at a time. He often went down to the Canal, and either walked or rowed up and down for some time, and was known by sight by many persons who worked on or near the Canal. - Frederick William Hannaford of 6 Tucker's-buildings, Exeter, said ARROWSMITH passed him about 4.45 when he was working on the western bank of the Canal. He wished him good-day, but ARROWSMITH appeared not to hear. He did not seem worried or in a hurry. He had often seen the man in a boat on the Canal, but never walking. - Charles Prance Lamprey, of the Double Locks Hotel, said he was coming home from Exeter on Friday evening about 5.30 along the Canal bank, when he met deceased walking towards the City. Witness did not speak to him as he only knew him by sight. On the next morning, about seven o'clock, as he was going to Exeter he saw the body of the man floating in the water about ten yards from Salmon Pool bridge. He made sure that there were no signs of movement in the body, and then went to the City to inform the Police. He noticed a coat on the bank, about 20 yards from the spot where the body was floating. - Gwendoline Gibbons of The Cottage, Honiton, said that she was a personal friend of the deceased and had known him for some years. He was married. She had lately been away nursing, but had corresponded with him regularly and frequently came to Exeter to see him. She last saw him on Tuesday when he seemed very depressed, and said that he had great pain and could eat no food, but he did not threaten to take his life. She thought he was worried, as he wanted work but could get none, being too old. He was not in need of money, but did not like being idle. - P.C. Friendship, who with Sergt. Crooke recovered the body, said some clothes were found on the bank. No letter was found.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 29 October 1930
MORCHARD BISHOP. - "Due To Shock." Morchard Bishop Inquest Jury's Finding. Quarryman's Death. - The Inquiry was concluded at Morchard Bishop by the Deputy District Coroner, Mr G. H. Stephens, yesterday, into the circumstances connected with the death of ROBERT PHILIP HUTCHINGS, quarryman, of Morchard Bishop, whose body was found in a stream near Bugford Quarry, a month since. At the opening of the Inquiry at that time, it was revealed that the deceased had fallen from a ledge of rock while engaged in drilling operations and fell a distance of between 32 feet and 35 feet. Deceased, although shaken, said he felt alright and was able to do light work for the remainder of the day. He resumed work on the following day, but shortly before noon was missed. A search was instituted, and ultimately the body was recovered from a nearby stream. The cause of death could not be given by the medical witness. There was no water in the lungs, and no signs of external injury, although it was suggested that shock, caused by the previous day's accident, might have caused heart failure. In order that the possibility of poisoning might be excluded the Deputy Coroner directed that the contents of deceased's stomach should be analysed. - Mr W. G. C. Seager represented the widow. - Yesterday, the Deputy Coroner reported that the analysis revealed no trace of poison. He added there was a fresh witness who also saw the body in the water. - Hat Recovered. - Albert Marshall Vivian, quarry foreman at Bugford Quarry, said he saw the body in the water between 12.15 and 12.30. He heard a shout from the searchers that they had found deceased in the water. Deceased was on his back close to the bank. Witness was under the impression deceased's mouth and nose were above water. - The Deputy Coroner recalled the evidence given by Mr E. V. Staddon at the opening of the Inquiry to the effect that he saw the deceased lying with his face upwards but under the water. - By the Foreman, Mr D. Tipper: Witness would have been under the impression that the deceased's nose and mouth were above water if he had given evidence at the opening of the Inquest. - Witness, answering Mr Seager, agreed that Mr Phillips (the working foreman at the quarry) organised the search. Deceased assured witness, after he fell, that he was not hurt. Upon further questioning deceased said he was alright, and witness put him on light work. On the following day (when he was missed) deceased said he was as fit as ever. Witness advised deceased to go home if he felt unwell, but deceased reiterated he was alright. - The Deputy Coroner added that since the opening of the Inquest deceased's hat had been recovered. Reviewing the evidence previously given, the Deputy Coroner said the medical testimony was to the effect that death was not due to drowning. A medical examination was conducted, but nothing could be found to which death could be attributed. Dr Pratt had suggested that death might have occurred before deceased got into the water. Reference had been made to an incident in which deceased had been accused of sending a postcard to another quarryman's wife. He had, however, denied it, and appeared rather more annoyed than depressed about the accusation. - Difficult Case. - "This is one of the most difficult cases I have had to Inquire into," added the Deputy Coroner. The Jury would have to consider whether death was the result of drowning; if so was it accidental? Did deceased take his own life; if so, was there any reason? The Jury could leave the matter open. If they did that they would have to have regard to the medical evidence. Was death due to natural causes? If they were unable to come to a conclusion, they should say deceased was found dead in the water, but that there was no evidence to show how he got there. If they, however, thought death was due to the shock sustained the previous day they could return a verdict of "Accidental Death." - The Jury, after a short retirement, found that "Deceased died from Shock, the result of the fall the previous day." - Sympathy with the widow was expressed by the Deputy Coroner, Mr Seager and Mr C. T. Chevalier (representing the Devon County Council, owners of the quarry and employers of the deceased.) The Jury gave their fees to the widow.

Western Times, Friday 31 October 1930 PLYMSTOCK - Whimple Girl's Death. Body Found On The Shore At Plymouth. Open Verdict Returned. - The circumstances attending the death of a Devon school teacher, MARGARET MARY GODFREY, aged 21, whose body was found on the beach at Jennycliffe, near Plymouth, on Sunday, were investigated by Mr A. K. G. Johnstone, County Coroner, at Turnchapel, Tuesday. Mr E. Fowler, Inspector of Schools, was present. - MRS LUCY GODFREY , of "Lamorna," Whimple, identified the body as that of her daughter, who had been lodging at No. 1 Endsleigh-road, Oreston, and who had been teaching at Oreston School for about two months. Witness paid her a visit for the day on Saturday, and they had dinner at her lodgings. - The Coroner: Was she cheerful? - Quite cheerful and everything seemed alright. - Did she give the impression that anything was troubling her? - Nothing at all. - Witness said they spent the afternoon at Plymouth, where they had tea, and in the evening her daughter went to Friary Station to see her off on the return journey to Whimple. Deceased said she would be spending the following weekend at Whimple. - Had she any love affair? - Nothing whatever. - She never told you of any? - No. - Assuming she took her life, can you throw any light on the cause? - Nothing whatever. I cannot realise she did it. - Cheerful Nature. - Mrs Mary Ellis, with whom deceased lodged, said MISS GODFREY liked being at Oreston, and had expressed the hope that she would become a prominent teacher there. There were no indications that anything had been troubling her. She was of a cheerful nature. When she did not return at the usual time on Saturday, witness came to the conclusion that she had gone to the theatre with a friend. - Mr W. E. Giles, of the Jennycliffe Tea Gardens, Plymstock, deposed to finding the body on the beach. It was stretched on the sands, fully dressed. - The Coroner: She was embedded in the sands? - Partially. The hands were just covered. The tie had been ebbing about three hours, and he thought he recognised her as a visitor to the Jennycliffe Tea Gardens on one or two occasions. - Was the body washed up by the tide? - I can hardly form an opinion. I do not think she would have lodged so peacefully if she had been washed up by the tide. It looked as if the body lodged there and the tide had receded. - Dr S. Noy Scott said he examined the body at the Mortuary and found no trace of violence. He formed the opinion that she had been dead from eight to twelve hours. The external injuries were consistent with death from drowning. - Miss Barbara Bessie Mabel Oats, Oreston-road, Plymstock, said she and deceased travelled from Plymouth by train bound for Turnchapel, on Saturday evening. MISS GODFREY appeared to be as usual. - P.C. Badge, giving evidence, said he had been unable to ascertain whether deceased alighted from the train at Oreston or Turnchapel. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," and expressed sympathy with the parents. - Promising Young Teacher. - Mr E. H. Fowler, Inspector of Schools, said MISS GODFREY was an unusually promising young teacher, and had done her work extremely well. A career of an exceptionally gifted teacher had been anticipated for her. - The Plymouth Police are continuing their enquiries relative to the death of the young Whimple girl, MISS MARGARET MARY GODFREY, a school teacher, who resided at Oreston, near Plymouth and who was found drowned at Jennycliff. The evidence of the medical witness at the inquest was that the external signs were consistent with death by drowning, but the actual cause of death could not be definitely stated. - The parents of deceased, who reside at Whimple and her friends are mystified over the affair, as deceased was apparently happy and contented at Oreston. When she visited Whimple at weekends she revealed no sign of trouble. She took part in the recent Whimple Carnival, and was then in the best of spirits. She was formerly a scholar at Whimple School, of which her father is one of the managers, and she won a scholarship there for King's School, Ottery, from where she went to Salisbury College, where she took her certificate. She returned to Whimple as an assistant mistress. Subsequently she took up an appointment at Princetown, and at the end of the last summer holiday was transferred to Oreston. The funeral will take place at Whimple today.

Western Times, Friday 31 October 1930 NEWTON ABBOT - Death Under Anaesthetic. Patient Succumbs At Newton Abbot Following Operation. - "Although Inquests are held in cases of this nature there is no possible reflection on anybody but it is only right that where persons are taken from their homes into any Institution away from their kith and kin and they die under an anaesthetic, that the fullest enquiry should be made to see that all possible precautions are adopted. In this case I imagine you will agree that the best possible skill was employed and nothing more could have been done." - These remarks were addressed by Mr Ernest Hutchings, Coroner, to a Jury at Newton Abbot yesterday, which sat to enquire into the circumstances of the death of FREDERICK JOHN HUXHAM, aged 20, of 18 Garston-road, who died under an anaesthetic at Newton Abbot Hospital. - A verdict of "Death from Heart Failure" was returned and the Jury agreed that every possible precaution had been taken. - Dr G. M. Tanner said deceased suffered from inflammation of the kidneys as the result of trouble with his tonsils and he decided that an operation for their removal was necessary as an alternative to a development of Bright's Disease, which nearly always ended fatally. Deceased was too nervous to be treated by diathermy and the short operation usually adopted for children was undertaken, which lasted less than a minute. Shortly after the operation symptoms of heart failure developed, and artificial respiration was kept going for three-quarters of an hour, whilst several injections with the object of stimulating the heart were also given. - Dr W. Patey, who administered the anaesthetic, said it was a very light one, and added that although from 1,000 to 1,500 operations were performed in the Hospital in a year, a collapse was very rare indeed. - Sympathy was expressed with the relatives.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 31 October 1930
SEATON AND BEER - Blow Struck? Beer Schoolboy's Sad Death. Peritonitis. - An extraordinary situation developed at an Inquest conducted by Mr C. N. Tweed, Coroner for East Devon, at Beer yesterday, on BERNARD ALBERT RESTORICK, 14, a scholar at Colyton Grammar School, who died this week as a result of a blow in the stomach. It had been alleged by deceased that the blow was playfully struck by a boy friend on 18th October. At the Inquest the deceased's friend denied seeing him on that day. - STELLA MAUD RESTORICK of 3 Bury-hill, Beer, said on Sunday her son complained of feeling sick, and woke her up that night saying he had a pain in the stomach. He made no further complaint until the Wednesday, when witness summoned Dr Tonge. In consequence of what he said, witness questioned her son, who admitted that he had been knocked in the stomach by Billie Hoare. - The Coroner: Did he say it was in fun? - Witness: He said Billie didn't mean to do it. - The Coroner: He was quite clear as to who did it? - Yes; he said Billie did it on Saturday. I think it was accidental. They had not been playing, but he said he was struck in passing. Witness said the two boys had always been very friendly since they had taken up residence 9 ½ years ago. Further questioned, MRS RESTORICK said deceased suffered from a slight rupture two years ago, but quickly recovered. He was not attended by a doctor. - Peter George Steel, of Hooknell House, Beer, a scholar of Colyton Grammar School, said Hoare was employed by his mother as errand boy. Witness saw him about seven o'clock on Saturday night, but he said nothing about RESTORICK. - Arthur Stanley Ayres, 15, of 5 Gordon-terrace, Beer, another pupil of Colyton School, said he saw RESTORICK at 6 p.m. on Saturday in Fore-street, Beer. Deceased said: "I have got a stomach ache; I had a knock on top of my tea." He said nothing further and appeared normal when they parted at nine o'clock. - Strenuous Denials. - William Hoare, of Gospel Hall-court, Beer, said he was employed by Mrs Steele. - Coroner: Did you see RESTORICK on Saturday? - Witness: No, sir. - Coroner: You are quite sure? - Yes, sir. Witness added that he saw him on the previous Monday, but did not hit him. The last time he played with him was in the summer in the cricket field. - Coroner: Are you quite sure you did not touch him? - Yes, sir. - Think again. Why should this boy say you had struck him if you didn't. If it was a pure accident you need not be afraid to say so. You had much better say the truth. - Witness: I didn't see him on Saturday. - Hoare was further pressed, but adhered to his statement. - Dr Edward Tonge said when called in on Wednesday he found the deceased very ill. It was undoubtedly a case of peritonitis in an advanced stage and it was too late to attempt surgical treatment. Witness questioned him very carefully as to how he received the blow. "He made a very definite statement," continued Dr Tonge. He said, "I was perfectly well on the Saturday until after tea. I went down to the village and I met with young Hoare. I never spoke to him, but he hit me a very heavy blow in the bowels on the left side." - The Jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, but there was insufficient to show how the blow was brought about. They exonerated Hoare from blame. - The Coroner questioned the Jury as to Hoare being exonerated and they reaffirmed their verdict. - The Jury, Coroner and Police joined in sympathising with the relatives. The Jury passed their fees to MRS RESTORICK, who requested that it be given to an orphanage.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 3 November 1930
TIVERTON - Tiverton Accident. Fatal Sequel. - "Accidental Death" was the verdict returned by a Tiverton Jury at the Hospital on Saturday at an Inquest on WILFRID JUTSUM, farmer, 37, single, of Vatcott Farm. The Coroner, Mr F. R. W. Clutsom, said nobody was to blame. - The evidence showed that on the 12th September deceased rode a horse into Tiverton, and was returning on Seven Crosses Hill when he met Beatrice Gunter, a girl, riding a cycle. The horse shied and reared and in pulling it round to prevent its feet getting on the girl, who had been thrown, deceased fell from the animal and sustained a compound comminated fracture of the left leg. The girl sustained a broken arm through a kick by the horse. JUTSUM got on fairly well until ten days ago, when septic pneumonia set in and caused his death.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 4 November 1930
MERTON - Buried In Garden. How Merton Infant's Body Was Disposed Of. - At Merton yesterday an Inquest was held on the newly-born child of LILIAN MAY CROOK, wife of a farm labourer, of Merton. - It was stated that CROOK, on returning from work, found that his wife had given birth to a child, and she told him it was dead. She would not let him fetch a doctor or nurse. - CROOK told the Jury he was frightened, did not know what to do with the body, and he buried it in the garden. - The Rev. G. Nelson, Foreman of the Jury: Did you think the child could not be buried in the churchyard? - CROOK: I did not think it could be, as it had not been christened. - Dr Pugh, of Torrington, said the body was that of a normal child. It had lived and breathed for at least half an hour and with proper attention at birth it would have lived. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Infanticide" against MRS CROOK, and found that her husband was an accessory after the fact.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 7 November 1930
BISHOPSTEIGNTON - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest at Teignmouth Hospital yesterday on MRS E. CUMMINGS of Teign View, who died of heart failure following a fall in which she broke her leg. 

Western Times, Friday 7 November 1930 SEATON AND BEER - Fatality At Axmouth. Sad Death Of Seaton Old-Age Pensioner. Fall Under Cart Wheel. - Mr C. N. Tweed, Coroner for East Devon, sitting with a Jury, held an Inquest at the Town Hall, Seaton, on Tuesday, relative to the death of ISAAC JOHN COLE TIDBURY, 72, old-age pensioner, 2 Queen-street, Seaton, who fell under the wheel of a water cart drawn by a steam roller owned by Messrs. Edison and Co., Dorchester, near Bosshill Cross, Axmouth, on Monday afternoon. Mr C. Forward (Forward and Sons, Axminster) represented the owners of the steam roller. - ANN AMELIA TIDBURY, deceased's sister, said her brother had not been well lately. He had a bad cold, and suffered from heart trouble. He had had fainting attacks and just over twelve months ago he was found unconscious in Beer-hill. On leaving the house on Monday he said he was going for a walk. About 5 p.m. the Police informed her he had been picked up dead. About forty years ago deceased was a draper's assistant in New Bond-street, London. - "Stretched Across The Road." - John Morgan, contractor, Colyton, stated that just before 3.3-0 p.m. on Monday, in company with Joseph Jacknell, of Shute, he was loading gravel beside the road near Bosshill Cross, Axmouth. Deceased came along and talked to them, being quite jocular. A steam roller came along with a living van and water cart trailing behind, going towards Axminster. After it had passed bout 25 to 30 yards deceased said, "I must be going," and went off in the same direction as the roller. The first witness knew of anything wrong was the shouting of an A.A. Scout, who was pointing in the direction deceased had taken. Witness then saw TIDBURY stretched across the road. The roller was still going on, and was being carefully driven. It was impossible for either the driver or steersman to see deceased. Witness went to TIDBURY and found him unconscious. The A.A. Scout stopped the roller, and with the assistance of a gentleman who came along in his car, they lifted deceased in out of the way of the traffic. - Mark Long, of Chard, the engine driver, said on Monday afternoon he was proceeding from Colyford to Axminster with the roller. Just after passing Bosshill he was stopped by an A.A. Scout, who told him he had run over a man. He stopped and went to where deceased was lying and remained till the doctor and Police arrived. He could not see behind owing to the living van, and he had no mirror on the roller. - By the Coroner: How do you know when anything is coming behind? - I always keep at the side. - The Foreman questioned whether steam rollers were exempt from carrying mirrors. - Montague Dabs, King-street, Dorchester, steersman, corroborated and stated he could not keep a look out behind owing to the van. When they were passing children he got off and went back and saw everything was clear. - Albert Snell, 36 Arcot Park, Sidmouth, A.A. patrol, said when the steam roller passed he saw deceased run after it and try to jump on the shaft of the water cart. He fell on his right side and the off wheel of the cart went over him. - Dr John S. Burton, locum tenens for Dr Maemorland, Colyton, said when he arrived on the scene he found TIDBURY dead. There was an indentation of the right lower ribs consistent with a wheel passing over the body. Deceased was suffering from heart disease, and the shock was quite enough to cause death. - No Neglect. - The Coroner said there was no neglect on the part of either driver or steersman. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and thought the intervening van obscured the view to the rear. - The Coroner said he could find nothing to show that it was compulsory for steam rollers to carry mirrors.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 8 November 1930
ST MARYCHURCH - Pavements. Coroner's Criticism At Torquay Inquest. Visitor's Tragic Death. - Mr E. Hutchings, County Coroner, held an Inquest at St Marychurch Town Hall, yesterday, relative to the death of MRS ELIZA CLINCH, who was killed in Ellacombe Church-road, Torquay, on Wednesday afternoon. A child who was with deceased escaped. - Dr C. Joyner said that he examined deceased and found fractures in the forearms and ribs. There was evidence of internal haemorrhage, and in his opinion death was caused firstly by shock and secondly by internal injury. - P.C. Bolt said he found no skid marks in the road. The driver of the lorry told him he was travelling from about 10 to 15 miles an hour. The lorry skidded and collided with a pillar in front of No. 83. When the lorry commenced to skid he heard someone shout. - Samuel John Kernick (Ellacombe Church-road)_ and Cyril Walter Stocker (Windsor-road) spoke to seeing the lorry skid. - Ernest William Bastow, of 26 Dower-road, driver of the lorry, employed by Messrs. P. Sercombe, of Exeter, said that the lorry skidded and bumped into the side of the road. He had no time to do anything to prevent the accident and when he got out he saw Mr Stocker, who assisted him in carrying deceased into the house. - Mrs Bastow, wife of the previous witness, corroborated. - The Coroner, in summing up, said he had noticed in the Torbay-road that the pavement in some places was no more than an inch above the road. The time was fast arriving when they would have to reconsider the method of the construction of pavements. They should be a foot above the road as a means of protection. He suggested that four inches, the height of the pavement at the scene of the accident, was not going to stop a car mounting it. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was recorded.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 12 November 1930
EXMINSTER - Two Die In Year. Devon Family's Double Bereavement. Inquest Story. - The double tragedy in a family within a year was revealed at an Inquest at the Devon Mental Hospital, Exminster, last evening, on GEORGE MULLINS, 49, farm labourer, of Weston, near Honiton, who died about six weeks after he had been admitted to the Hospital, with a throat wound. The Inquiry was conducted by Mr G. H. Stephens, Deputy District Coroner, sitting with a Jury. - MRS MULLINS said she was now living at Buckerell, near Honiton. Her husband had been shell-shocked during the war, and had been depressed ever since. On June 7th this year their little boy was knocked down by a motor car and killed. Her husband was constantly crying about him. Prior to September 26th her husband had been in bed for a week with chronic indigestion, but on that day he came downstairs and went into the lavatory. About two minutes later he came out with a razor in his hand crying, "Look, mother. I have cut my throat." He had a wound in the neck. He told her that he believed he had a cancer in his throat. - Dr Minshull, Assistant Medical Officer at the Hospital, said deceased was admitted on September 26th. He was in a depressed condition, and had a wound four inches long across the front of the neck, in which eight stitches had been inserted. The wound had healed gradually, but deceased had been in bed all the time. A week ago he developed a cough and a temperature. This was followed by pneumonia and he died early on Sunday. Witness expressed the opinion that the wound had predisposed deceased towards pneumonia. He was in a weakened condition, having been troublesome with his food. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind," and handed their fees to the window. Both the Coroner and the Jury expressed sympathy with her in her bereavement.

Western Times, Friday 14 November 1930 RACKENFORD - Rackenford Suicide. Rose Ash Farmer Dies After Cutting His Throat. - A verdict of "Suicide by cutting his throat with a pocket knife while of Unsound Mind" was returned by a Jury at an Inquest conducted by the North Devon Coroner, Dr Ellis Pearson, at Rackenford yesterday on ABSALOM JOHN ROLLE, aged 41, farmer, of South Yarde Farm, Roseash. - About one o'clock on Armistice Day deceased was found in a gateway near Rackenford Manor bleeding profusely from a wound in the throat. The discovery was made by two tramps, who first saw deceased's pony running about the road riderless. The two men immediately went to the Manor house for assistance and the groom there (Mr Sidney Jury) proceeded to the spot. Dr Lowe of Tiverton and P.C. Potter of Rackenford, were telephoned for, but ROLLE had died within a short time of being found bleeding by the two tramps. Deceased had been seen just previous to the discovery riding his pony up the road. - Evidence was given showing that deceased left his home about eleven o'clock, saying he was going to Cobb Castle, Rackenford, to get some harness. - The widow said deceased was wounded in the head with shrapnel when serving in Gallipoli, and this had caused him a good deal of pain. He had been depressed, and seemed to worry, but there was no occasion for his worrying. Deceased had never threatened to take his life, although he had said he wished himself dead.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 17 November 1930
LIFTON - Fatal Collision. How Lifton Man Met His Death. Inquest Evidence. - The Deputy Coroner for the Okehampton District, Mr G. J. Atkinson, with a Jury, Inquired into the circumstances connected with the death of RUPERT GEORGE DONEY, aged 17 years, carpenter's apprentice, of Lifton Down, Lifton. - The body was identified by VINCENT RUSSELL DONEY, a brother. - William Down said that on Thursday evening, when about 200 yards from Holsworthy Cross, he was knocked down by DONEY, who was cycling., Deceased was thrown off, but both got up again. Witness was unhurt, but DONEY complained of a headache, and on witness's advice walked with him towards Lifton. After walking about 100 yards he mounted his bicycle and rode off. When witness arrived at the Park, Lifton, he saw deceased in the hedge holding his bicycle with one hand. Dr Nockolds was summoned and he took DONEY home by car. The deceased was riding a racing bicycle, with an acetylene lamp burning on the front. It was a clear night and no fog. Witness was walking within two or three feet of the edge of the road on the left-hand side. - Sidney Maunder, a farm labourer, corroborated. - Dr S. Nockolds, Lifton, said he found deceased lying propped up against the road bank near the Park gates. He took him home in the car and examined him and he was put to bed. There were no marks of injury except a bruise on the right side of the head behind the ear. This injury was quite consistent with his having fallen off his bicycle as described. Witness came to the conclusion that DONEY was suffering from concussion and witness had great difficulty in making him understand what he wanted done. Later he lapsed into unconsciousness. - P.C. Bingham stated that after the accident he inspected the pedal bicycle that deceased had been riding, and he found the brakes in perfect order. - The Jury returned a verdict that death was due to Concussion of the Brain caused by deceased Accidentally falling from his pedal cycle after an accidental collision with William Down. No blame could be attached to anyone. Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 18 November 1930 ALPHINGTON - Found Drowned. Inquest On Silverton Man. Exeter Canal Tragedy. - "Found Drowned" was the verdict returned by the Coroner, Mr G. F. Stephens, at an Inquest at Double Locks, Exeter, yesterday, on SAMUEL SELLEY, aged 41, a jobbing gardener, of High-street, Silverton, whose body was found in Exeter Canal on Sunday. - WILLIAM HOOPER SELLEY, of Churchdown, Silverton, a painter, identified the body as that of his brother, whom he last saw alive about a week before he left home on October 31st. He told his mother, with whom he lived, that he was going to the chrysanthemum show at Exeter, and, as he did not return, information was given to the Police on the following Sunday. Deceased had been in very delicate health for a long time, and had an attack of tuberculosis when he was 20. He had been very depressed, especially during the last two years, and was unable to sleep. He used to suffer from pains in his head, which he called "nerve" pains. He had never threatened to take his life. - P.C. Friendship, of Alphington, who recovered the body from a spot midway between Salmon Pool and Double Locks, said the body was fully dressed and appeared to have been in the water for about a fortnight. He searched the body and banks, but failed to find anything to throw light on the tragedy. No note was found at deceased's home. - Dr Black stated that he could find no marks of violence on the body, which presented the usual appearance of death through drowning. - The Coroner said no evidence had been offered to show deceased's mental state or how he got into the water. He expressed sympathy with the relatives.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 20 November 1930
LODDISWELL - "Notice To Quit." Loddiswell Tragedy. - Grief at being served with a notice to quit the house in which he was living seems to have led to the death of a Loddiswell old age pensioner. At an Inquest yesterday a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was returned by the Coroner, Mr G. K. Windeatt. The deceased was MARK QUICK, of Loddiswell, near Kingsbridge. When, on Monday, his wife went to call him she could not open the door of his bedroom. She fetched a son, who forced the door, and found his father in a sitting position at the foot of the bed with a rope tied around his neck and fastened to the bed rail. He was dead. The wife said that her husband had never threatened to commit suicide, but when notice to quit was received he said that "he would not go into another house." He was 69 years of age and a gardener.

Western Times, Friday 21 November 1930 EXETER - Wonford Boy's Death. - Mr H. Linford Brown, Deputy Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, on KENNETH WALTER SENE, aged 9 of 67 Wonford-street, who died in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital. - JAMES EDWARD SENE, the lad's father, gave evidence of identification, and said he was returning from work on the evening of November 6th when he met several boys carrying his son, who had fallen from a wall. The boy had sustained a cut under his right knee, which gave the appearance of a piece of flesh having been ripped out. The boy was taken to the Hospital and made an out-patient. Last Saturday deceased complained of a pain in the back, and witness put him to bed. In the early hours of the following morning he said he felt he was choking, and a doctor who saw him later in the day ordered his immediate removal to Hospital. - James Arthur Finnimore described how deceased, in company with witness and other lads, climbed over a wall from Bouvoir-lane, Wonford, into a field. Deceased jumped from the wall and cut his knee on an old bestead which was resting against the wall. - Dr Gerrish, House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said deceased was admitted to the Institution as an in-patient on the 16th and passed away on Wednesday, the 19th. Death was due to tetanus following the cut. The wound on the knee had not healed. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Friday 21 November 1930
EXETER - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest conducted by the Deputy Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, concerning the death of ARTHUR CHARLES HANCOCK, aged 45, of Cullompton-hill, Bradninch, who died at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on Tuesday as the result of swallowing a rabbit bone.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 22 November 1930
TIVERTON - Bickleigh Woman's Death. Cyclist's Ill-Luck. - "Accidental Death" was the verdict returned at an Inquest at Tiverton, last evening, on ALICE JANE HOLSGROVE, 58, wife of THOMAS HOLSGROVE, of Dart Cottage, Bickleigh, who died from injuries sustained through being knocked down on Cadeleigh-hill the previous morning by a cycle. Stanley Kemp, of Bampton-street, Tiverton, said he was cycling down the hill when he met deceased coming up. She jumped to her left and when he saw that he could not avoid her he dismounted and ran beside his machine. The cycle struck her and she fell backwards.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 25 November 1930
PLYMOUTH - The Cornish Sensation. Mrs Hearn's Declaration Of Her Innocence. Arsenic In The Body. - Dramatic episodes marked the opening of the Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on MRS THOMAS, wife of a farmer, of Lewannick, Launceston, who died in Plymouth Hospital on November 4th. Mrs Hearn, a neighbour and friend of MR and MRS THOMAS, disappeared on November 10th. - WILLIAM HENRY THOMAS said his wife was 43 and she and Mrs Hearn were very good friends. They took his mother home to Bude on October 16th. While he, his wife, and Mrs Hearn were having tea at a cafe Mrs Hearn took out some tinned salmon sandwiches and invited them to have some. He took one and he believed his wife also had one. Mrs Hearn had at least one. When they left he felt ill and took two drops of whisky. His wife asked him for some fruit, as she had a "sweety" taste in her mouth, and he bought her some bananas. On the way home his wife was sick several times. She refused to have a doctor, and on reaching home was put to bed. He got her some brandy and fetched Dr Sanders, though she was reluctant to have him. At the suggestion of both of them Mrs Hearn looked after the home and she prepared all the food. On the Sunday before MRS THOMAS died he gave her one genasprin from a bottle which Mrs Hearn had brought to the house. MRS THOMAS'S mother afterwards came and after that she showed improvement for a time. - Witness declared that he had never bought arsenic from a chemist. He last used sheep dip about two years ago. His wife never had cause to be jealous of Mrs Hearn. Witness lent Mrs Hearn £38 in December of 1928. When after his wife's death he went home he was told Mrs Hearn had gone to her own house. He could not get any response to his calls and went to the Police. Next day he received the following letter, bearing the Congdon's Shop (Launceston) post mark: "Dear MR THOMAS, - Good-bye. I am going out if I can. I cannot forget that awful man and the things he said. I am innocent ..... Innocent. But she is dead and it was my lunch she ate. I cannot bear it. When I am dead they will be sure I am guilty, and you at least will be clear. May your dear wife's presence guard and comfort you still. - Yours, A.H. - P.S. - My life is not a great thing now, now dear MINNIE has gone. I should be glad if you would send my love to Bessie and tell her not to worry about me. I will be all right. My conscience is clear, so that I am not afraid of the afterwards. I am giving instructions to Wenn about selling things, and hope you will be paid in full. It is all I can do now." - Witness took the letter to the Police. - MRS ELIZABETH THOMAS, mother of the last witness, said that after the funeral she heard someone say at the farm that "this poisoning must be cleared up." - Mr T. Tickle, of Exeter, the County Analyst, stated that tests he made upon organs from MRS THOMAS'S body showed the presence of arsenic sufficient to have caused death. He could not say exactly how much. There must have been a fatal dose in the organs he examined. - Mr Matthews said he had sold weed-killer (which was practically all arsenic) to Mrs Hearn. - The Inquiry was adjourned until tomorrow.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 25 November 1930
NEWTON ABBOT - Adjourned. Newton Inquest On Totnes Motor Cyclist. - Late last night Mr Ernest Hutchings (District Coroner) opened an Inquest at Newton Abbot into the circumstances attending the death of JAMES FREDERICK ALFORD, 22, Customs officer, of Teignmouth, who died on Saturday at Newton Abbot Hospital from injuries received in an accident at Ware Cross, Kingsteignton. Deceased, whose home was at Totnes, was motor-cycling to that town when he came into collision with a motor van proceeding to Teignmouth. - The Coroner explained that since Saturday noon he had investigated five deaths and as it was essential that the Inquest should be held on Monday, he had no alternative but to fix a late hour. - Evidence of identification was given by George Le Due, of Totnes, after which the Inquiry was adjourned until Tuesday, December 2nd, at 3 p.m. The Coroner expressed deep sympathy with the relatives of the deceased.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 26 November 1930
SOUTH BRENT - - South Brent Tragedy. - Conducting an Inquest on MRS ELLEN CHARLOTTE BALCOMB, 64, who was found cut in two on the G.W.R. line at South Brent, the Deputy Coroner, Mr G. E. Windeatt, returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane." Deceased was the wife of an invalid Canadian soldier. MISS PHYLLIS M. BALCOMB said her mother had been released from a mental hospital ten weeks ago, at her father's wish. She last saw her mother at midnight Saturday when she seemed asleep. She was called by her father at 3 o'clock when deceased was missing. P.S. Southard and P.C. Harris said they found the mangled body on the down line. - The Coroner and Inspector Henwood (representing the Railway Company) joined in sympathising with the relatives, and P.S. Southwood thanked Stationmaster G. G. Taylor and his staff for assistance given.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 27 November 1930
PLYMOUTH - Arsenic Case. Jury's Verdict Regarding MRS THOMAS. Husband's Opinion. - The Inquest on MRS ALICE MAUD THOMAS, wife of a farmer at Lewannick, near Launceston, who died on November 4th, was concluded at Plymouth, last evening. The Jury returned a verdict that the cause of death was Arsenical Poisoning, and that death was Homicidal, but that there was not sufficient evidence to show by whom or by what means the arsenic was administered. The Jury were absent for half an hour. The verdict was received in silence by a crowded Court. - Reviewing the evidence, the Coroner said there seemed to be no jealousy between MRS THOMAS and Mrs Hearn, and nothing in the evidence showed any grounds for Mrs Hearn contemplating that she would become the second MRS THOMAS if MR THOMAS'S first wife was dead. - MR THOMAS, interviewed after the verdict said: "I think the Jury returned the only possible verdict, and I am satisfied with it. The Inquest has been perfectly fair and impartial. I have done everything I could to help the Police, and shall continue until the mystery is cleared." - Reports that Mrs Hearn has been seen on Bodmin Moors dressed in man's clothes are not confirmed.

Western Times, Friday 28 November 1930 TORQUAY - Widow's Accidental Death At Torquay. - "Accidental Death" was the verdict returned at an Inquest held at Torquay on Saturday on MRS ELIZABETH SMITH, widow, aged 70 years, who was found dead in her bed on Saturday. Gas in the room was coming from a jet.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 1 December 1930
BIDEFORD - Bideford Warden's Death. - At Bideford on Saturday Dr Ellis Pearson, District Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of MR JAMES STREET, vicar's warden, who died suddenly the previous day. Dr Marshall said the cause of death was the rupture of one of the arteries of the heart, and a verdict of death from Natural Causes was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 2 December 1930
SIDMOUTH - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest at Sidmouth, yesterday, concerning the death of MRS M. E. STREET, aged 83, widow of the REV. J. STREET, minor Canon of Wells Cathedral. She was knocked down by a motor car on November 7th in All Saints-road.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Wednesday 3 December 1930
NEWTON ABBOT - Road Crash. Inquest On Teignmouth Customs Officer. Coroner's Hope. - At Newton Abbot yesterday Mr Hutchings and a Jury Inquired into the death of JAMES FREDERICK ALFORD, 22, a Teignmouth customs officer, of Melrose, Lower Brimley-road, Teignmouth, and a native of Totnes. He was fatally injured when motor cycling at Ware Cross, Kingsteignton, on November 22nd, colliding with a furniture van at the sharp bend. - Dr Cromie said that death took place a couple of hours after the accident, the cause being shock and haemorrhage following fracture of the base of the skull, fracture of the collar bone and ribs, and probably internal injuries. - The driver of the lorry, Percy Emmanuel Gordon, employed by a London firm, said that when approaching the bend his speed was not more than seven or eight miles an hour. He was on his proper side of the white line and was just taking the bend when deceased came round the corner, holding the crown of the road, at a very high speed. Deceased realised he was right on top of the van and tried to turn sharply to his left. His handle-bar, however, caught the van's mudguard and he was dragged towards the body of the car. Witness pulled up immediately. If deceased had been going slower he could have got clear. - Jack Bell, who was also on the lorry, gave similar evidence. - The Coroner remarked that he always thoroughly investigated road accidents, for it was a horrible thing that 80,000 people were killed every year on the roads. He hoped that the new road regulations would have effect of making everyone more careful on the roads. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death and exonerated the driver of the van from all blame. They also expressed sympathy with the man's relatives. - Mr Alford, who appeared on behalf of the driver, expressed sympathy and said that Gordon had an almost similar fatality in his own family recently.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 4 December 1930
EXETER - Fatal Worry. Broadclyst Farm Labourer Dies In Hospital. Shot In The Face. - A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was returned by the Deputy City Coroner, Mr H. Linford Brown, at an Inquest at Exeter, yesterday, on ALBERT WOOD, a 63-year-old farm labourer, of Culm John Cottages, Broadclyst, who died at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital of pneumonia, consequent upon a gunshot wound in the face. - JOHN THOMAS WOOD, deceased's son, gave evidence of identification, and said that about 15 months ago his father fell from a rick and broke his arm. He had since complained of pain in his arm, which worried him, and made him think he would not be able to do his work. About 6 o'clock on November 19th his mother called witness, and together they went to look for his father with a light. Just as they came out of the door they heard the shot of a gun from the direction of a shed owned by Mr Letheren. Witness found his father in a crouching position, and near him, lying on the ground, was witness's gun. His father was wounded in the face. Witness did not ask deceased how the accident happened. He was removed to the Hospital shortly afterwards. - EMMA WOOD, deceased's wife, corroborated. She said her husband tried to light the fire, and when her back was towards him he took out a cartridge. She asked him what he was going to do with it, and he told her he was "going to put an end to himself." He went out and she shortly afterwards heard a shot. He had never previously threatened to take his life. The gun was usually kept in the front room, and she did not know it had been removed. - P.C. Palmer, of Broadclyst, said he saw deceased shortly after the accident. He was sitting in front of the fire and had a large wound in his face. Outside the house witness found two cartridge cases, the contents of which appeared to have been recently discharged. - Mr David Wilkie, House Surgeon of the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said deceased, when questioned, told him he shot himself because of worry.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 11 December 1930
BAMPTON - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest at Shillingford, near Bampton, yesterday, by Mr G. H. Stephens, Deputy Coroner, concerning the death of CLIFFORD NATION, a Post Office employee, who was killed by a fall from a motor lorry near Shillingford.

Western Times, Friday 12 December 1930 SAMPFORD COURTENAY - Sampford Courtenay Suicide. - Mr J. G. Atkinson, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry at West Hill Farm, Sampford Courtenay, yesterday, touching the death of MR ALBERT FROST, aged 70, who was found in the brook at the bottom of Appledore Hill. Evidence of identification was given by his son, ERNEST FROST, who last saw him alive at 11 a.m. on Tuesday last going for his morning walk. As he did not return, he, with his brother, went in search. He discovered deceased's coat and sticks by the side of the stream. Later the body was recovered from about 5 to 6 feet of water. Deceased suffered from rheumatism and nerves and could get little sleep. Dr Douglas Routh said the man had been dead for over an hour when witness examined the body. A verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 15 December 1930
HOLSWORTHY - Road Tragedy. Pyworthy Cyclist's Crash Near Holsworthy. Fatal Somersault. - Circumstances connected with the death of THOMAS EDWIN BEER, aged 19, of Killatree Farm, Pyworthy, were investigated by the District Coroner, Mr H. C. Brown, sitting with a Jury, at the Poor-law Institution, Holsworthy, on Saturday. - The body was identified by EDWIN BEER, father of deceased. - It appeared that on Thursday evening, about 6.30, James Orchard, of Anvil Corner, and his son John were walking from Pancrasweek to Holsworthy. The boy John was on the footpath and his father in the road about four feet from the kerb on the left-hand side. - John Orchard, giving evidence, stated that, near Rydon bridge, without warning of any description, he heard a crash and saw his father lying in the road about 10 feet away. Then he heard another crash, and saw a pedal cyclist who had, apparently, struck his father and been thrown from his machine. The pedal cyclist and his machine were about six feet from his father. There was no bell ringing, no light, or warning of any kind. A motor cyclist who came along went for the Police, and witness's shouts brought Mr S. E. Lyle, of Rydon Bridge, on the scene. His father had so far recovered by this time that he had got up and was sitting by the side of the road. - Samuel E. Lyle deposed to rendering, with an A.A. Patrol, assistance to BEER, while another motorist went for a doctor. The bicycle was a few yards from BEER'S body; it was undamaged, with the exception that the handlebars were slightly twisted. Witness found an acetylene gas lamp which had fallen from the cycle. The waster was turned on when found, and when a match was applied to the burner there was a light. - P.C. Batson, Milton Damerel, said the lamp gave light for two and a half hours after the accident. - Dr M. Kingdon deposed that deceased had a large laceration at the back of his head exposing the skull, the bone of which was broken into many pieces. He never regained consciousness and died in a few minutes. He must have turned a somersault. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." Sympathy was expressed by Jury, Coroner and Police, with the relatives and the Jury's fees were handed to the Poor-law authorities for the benefit of the inmates. Mr John Hicks was Foreman.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 15 December 1930
TIVERTON - "Accidental Death." Inquest On Victim Of Rackenford Tragedy. - For two and a half hours on Saturday evening Mr F. R. D. Clutsom and a Tiverton Jury Inquired into the death of WILLIAM JOHN TUCKER, 60, general labourer, of Myrtle Cottages, Castle-street, Tiverton, who died in the Hospital the previous day from cerebral haemorrhage caused by being knocked down by a motor cyclist named Cecil William Howe, 24, farmer's son, of Templeton, on the evening of Sunday, 23rd November. - The accident happened on the Rackenford road near the Rose and Crown about 6 p.m. Young Howe was motor cycling to Tiverton; deceased and Mrs Masters, a widow, were walking towards him. Mrs Masters said deceased remarked, "There's a motor bike coming, but we are as close to the left side (bordering a wall) as we can get without going through the wall." They were walking abreast arm in arm, deceased being nearest the middle of the road, and the next instant he was knocked down. - On the other hand, Frank Stone, retired lace hand, Tiverton, said he was walking in the same direction as the deceased and Mrs Masters, and they were in the middle of the road. The motor cyclist's light could be seen for a long way, and it was being driven at a moderate speed in the middle of the road. - Howe said he did not see deceased and Mrs Masters till he was about 15 feet away, and he could not avoid deceased, who was in the middle of the road. Both appeared to be watching the water which had flooded the road. - Other evidence showed that deceased could not have been tight to the left because of the water and a 2ft. gulley that side. - The Coroner did not think there was negligence, but a certain amount of carelessness on both sides in not keeping a proper look-out. - A verdict was "Accidental Death" and the Jury said they did not wish to add any rider.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 18 December 1930
TEIGNMOUTH - Shaldon Verdict. - Mr G. Windeatt, Deputy Coroner, returned a verdict of "Death by Misadventure" at the Inquest at the Town Hall, Teignmouth, yesterday, on HENRY JAMES WINSBORROW, gardener, at Haroldene, Shaldon, the residence of Mr W. E. Gray, who was killed by a branch of a tree striking him. - Dr F. W. Morton Palmer said he found deceased sitting astride the fork of the tree. Another rope was obtained and the body lowered. MR WINSBORROW was dead. His lower lip and chin were split open down to the bone and his skull was fractured at the back. The cause of death was a fractured skull. - The Coroner expressed sympathy with the family and thanked P.C. Martin for his diagram of the tree. - Mr Hamilton Young expressed Mr Gray's sorrow at the loss of a confidential and trustworthy servant.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 18 December 1930
EXETER - Bright Lights. Ottery Motorist Dazzled On The Road. Inquest Sequel. - Mr H. Linford Brown, Deputy Coroner, sat with a Jury at Exeter yesterday to Inquire into circumstances attending the death of FRANK PRATT, aged 60, of Goold's Cottages, Rockbeare, who was knocked down on Monday evening on the Exeter - Honiton road by a car driven by Dr H. Holman Weekes, retired, of Spilsbury House, Ottery St Mary. Mr R. J. McGahey represented Dr Weekes and Mr G. H. Earle (Messrs, J. and S. P. Pope) the relatives. Police-Sergeant Hulland was present on behalf of the Police. Mr H. C. Brown was Foreman of the Jury. - CECIL EDWARD PRATT, son, said that deceased had good hearing and good sight in one eye; he had lost the other. - In reply to Mr Earle, witness said that his father was bleeding from the nose and was taken into the Crown and Sceptre. Dr Weekes asked for water and sponged the face of deceased, who was bleeding from the ear. Dr Weekes said "I have done all I can for him. I must go now." - In reply to Mr McGahey, witness agreed that the doctor told him he had arranged for the ambulance to be fetched. The doctor had directed that no spirits should be given him and had, so far as witness knew, done what he could. - Evidence was given by Robert Statt, of Rockbeare. - Chauffeur's Story. - Frederick William Ritchie, chauffeur, of Rockbeare Court, said he had driven Sir Edward May's car into the Court entrance when a gentleman shouted to him. He returned into the road and found Dr Weekes's car nearly in the centre of the road and deceased close behind it. He assisted Dr Weekes to move deceased to the side of the road. The doctor did all he could for deceased, and put a mackintosh beneath his head and made him as comfortable as possible. Dr Weekes told him he had been dazzled by blazing headlights. - Phyllis Cobbett, of The Green, West Hill, Ottery St Mary, said that she was being driven by Dr Weekes. The lights of an approaching car were dazzling and their car, which was travelling t about 20 miles an hour, slowed more and more. She felt a bump and got out of the car. They had no idea what they had hit. Deceased was lying about a yard behind the back wheel. He had been struck by the near side headlight. - "Distressing" Lights. - Dr Weekes said that to the best of his knowledge the road before him was clear. In face of the approaching dazzling headlights he slowed until he was only just moving at the time of the impact. The lights of the other car were then distressing. He pulled to the centre of the road, thus avoiding running over the deceased with his back wheel. He got out, found the deceased on his face behind the car, and did his best for him. - Dr Webster, House Surgeon at the Exeter Hospital, said that deceased was dead on arrival at the Hospital. The injuries indicated fracture of the skull. Dr Weekes, who had called to describe the man's condition when found and treatment given, had done everything that possibly could be done. - Edgar Victor Hammett, St John Ambulance attendant, also gave evidence. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," adding that no blame was attached to the driver of the car.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 18 December 1930
EXETER - Strange Death. Exeter Inquest. - Mr H. Linford Brown, Deputy Coroner, Inquired into the death, at Exeter, from an unusual accident. The case related to JOHN HARRIS, 68, farm labourer, of Rawlridge, Upottery, evidence was given by William Webb, of Budge's Farm, Luppitt, that he found deceased being supported on the roadside by Gerald Manley, a farm labourer. A motor cycle was in the ditch and Manley said he did not know what had happened. - P.C. Stevens said there were no brake-blocks in the front brake of Manley's machine. - Manley, in evidence, said deceased was carrying a sack of cabbages and as witness approached half turned round, with the result that the sack projected into the road. Witness ran into it and remembered nothing more. He had no recollection of assisting the deceased or speaking to Webb. He forgot to replace the brake-blocks, which had been removed for adjustments. - Dr Webster, House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said death resulted from shock from injuries - severe concussion, two broken ribs, and two fractures of the tibia. In reply to the Coroner, he said Manley's inability to remember his actions after the accident was quite possible as a state of automatism. Manley sustained a broken collar-bone in the accident. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Thursday 18 December 1930
EXETER - Mr H. Linford Brown, Deputy City Coroner, held an Inquest regarding the death of WILLIAM JOHN NORRISH, aged 83, widower, of Keynsham Cottage, Bradninch, who died in the Exeter Hospital on Monday. Frederick William Cumming, farmer, of Bradninch, said that on November 6th deceased was stepping into a governess car with him when the wheel went over a gutter, one of the shafts broke and the deceased was twisted out over, breaking his leg in the fall. - Dr Webster said that death was due to kidney failure, hastened by enforced rest in bed after the injury. - The Coroner recorded a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Times, Friday 19 December 1930 WEMBWORTHY - Wembworthy Postmaster's Death. Inquest Story Of Eggesford Collision. Jury's Verdict. - After a hearing lasting four and a half hours an Inquest at Wembworthy, Wednesday, culminated in a verdict of "Accidental Death," followed by a rider to the effect that a young lorry driver of Winkleigh had been negligent, although not culpably so. - The Inquest, which was conducted by Mr G. H. Stephens, Deputy District Coroner, and a Jury, was on MR ARTHUR EDWARD BORN, the Wembworthy postman, who died as a result of injuries sustained when motor cycling at Cott Bridge, Eggesford, last week. At the time deceased was accompanied by his wife in the sidecar, and he was involved in a collision with a motor lorry driven by Mr Herbert Francis Baker, of Cooper's Hill, Winkleigh. - Mr J. C. M. Dyke represented the driver of the lorry and Mr A. McGahey appeared on behalf of the relatives of the deceased. - Evidence Of The Widow. - There was a pathetic opening to the proceedings when the widow, in a very agitated state, was carried from an upstair room to give evidence. - She said her husband's sight and hearing were good and he had had 20 years' experience of motor cycle driving. Approaching the bottom of the hill deceased sounded the horn of his motor cycle once or twice. He was travelling at a very moderate pace. - "Suddenly," continued witness, "I was hit on the nose and the blow knocked me partly senseless. When I came to myself I saw a great lorry in front. My left leg felt all dead, and was jammed in the hedge. - Witness added that her husband was lying in the road on his back. She managed to get out of the sidecar and then screamed for help. Witness said to the driver of the lorry, "You were on your wrong side you know," and he replied to the effect that he tried to avoid the motor cycle. The lorry was close to the hedge on the down side and the driver had to remove the vehicle in order to get out her husband's mackintosh, which was caught by the front wheel. A doctor was called and deceased was taken to his home, where he died early on Sunday. - Answering Mr McGahey, witness said when her husband sounded his horn there was plenty of room for the lorry to have passed on its proper side. - William Board, labourer, of the Lodge, Wembworthy, described how he went into the road and saw deceased lying on his back with the lorry and motor cycle combination near by. The combination and lorry were both on the down side and close to the hedge. - Dr W. H. Bush, Chulmleigh, said deceased received a small cut on the right side of the throat and a number of bruises on the front of the throat. Death was due to a fracture of the throat, fracture of a rib, laceration of the lung, haemorrhage and resultant shock. - Charles H. Willis, porter, employed at Eggesford Station, said the combination was jammed between the offside front wheel and the chassis of the lorry. The front wheel of the motor cycle was pushed back under the engine and the nose of the side-car was splintered. - Lorry Driver's Evidence. - The driver of the lorry said he sounded his horn as he approached the corner, and then, just as he took the bend, he saw a motor cyclist approaching on his wrong side, with his head down over the handlebars. Witness saw that the rider was making no attempt to regain his proper side and so swung to the off side. When ten feet away, however, the combination altered its course and came across the road. The passenger in the sidecar shouted, "Look up, ARTHUR,"£ and then the collision occurred. The impact knocked the steering from witness's hands, and the lorry pushed the combination into the hedge. Witness applied his brakes, causing the lorry also to skid into the hedge. The combination was travelling at from 25 to 30 miles an hour and witness estimated his own speed at fifteen miles per hour. In reply to Mr Dyke, witness said he had the lorry under perfect control. - The Coroner expressed the thanks of the widow to Mr Rooks for the valuable first-aid attention he gave deceased after the accident, and to Messrs. Board and Willis for the assistance they rendered.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 23 December 1930
TIVERTON - Tiverton Almshouses. Coroner And Supervision Problem. Inmate's Death. - "Natural Causes" was the verdict returned at an Inquest last night at Tiverton concerning the death of MRS MARY ELLEN HEMBOROUGH, aged 79, of Greenway Almshouses. She was found lying on the floor in her room bleeding slightly from the mouth. - Mr Manley, milkman, said that deceased had not put her jug outside as usual, and on opening the door he found her lying beside the bed unconscious. - Dr Nicholson said death was due to cerebral haemorrhage. - Replying to the Coroner, Mr F. R. Clutsom, witness said nobody was deputed to see that the inmates of the various almshouses were in good health. - The Coroner suggested visits every night and morning by a responsible person. - Mr J. E. Gregory, one of the trustees, said the trustees had endeavoured to appoint a caretaker, but that was impossible. The undertaking was too big for the money that was available. Years ago some misguided trustee had spent a certain amount of the funds devoted to this purpose. - The Coroner expressed the hope that the Medical Officer, Dr Nicholson, and the trustees would meet and discuss the question of supervision of the almshouses in the town.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 23 December 1930
EXETER - Fatal Depression. St Thomas Gardener's End. - Mr H. Linford Brown, Deputy Exeter Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Court House, Exeter, yesterday, on HENRY GILBERT RADMORE, 63, gardener of 82 Broadway, St Thomas, Exeter, who was found in the river Exe on Sunday. - CYRIL HENRY RADMORE of 1 Monk's-road, a clerk, identified the body as that of his father, whom he last saw alive on Thursday and had a short conversation with him. Deceased had suffered from a nervous breakdown, and had recently been depressed, although there was no cause for this depression. Deceased had been employed at a nursery on Dunsford-hill since a boy, and would have been there 50 years in April. - P.C. Jarman said he was called to the Port Royal Inn at 8.25 p.m. on Thursday and an overcoat, which was found on a wall nearby, was handed to him. On the sleeve of the coat was pinned a note pencilled on brown paper. By the aid of a magnifying glass it had been deciphered to read: "In the river - H. G. RADMORE, Hearneville, 82 Broadway, St Thomas." - William Henry John Hodge, of 55 Widgery-road, Whipton, a friend of the deceased, gave evidence of dragging the river on Sunday morning. The body was found opposite Port Royal. - Dr Pereira Gray said death was due to drowning. - The Deputy Coroner, in returning a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence, said the deceased must have taken his own life while his mind was unhinged. Obviously a man with such a steady record must have acted on an impulse. Mr Brown sympathised with the family.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Saturday 27 December 1930
EXETER - Out Of Control. How Young Motor Cyclist Lost His Life. Exeter Inquest. - A verdict of "Accidental Death, caused by a fracture of the skull," was returned at an Inquest held at the Court House, Exeter, on Wednesday, by Mr H. Linford Brown, sitting with a Jury, on CECIL HENRY BRITTON SHAPCOTT. Deceased, who was a first-class aircraftsman, aged 23, was killed in the Prince of Wales-road, Exeter, on Tuesday, when riding a motor cycle. - The father, HENRY SHAPCOTT, carpenter, of 49 Rosebery-road, Exeter, identified the body as that of his son, who arrived home on Christmas Leave last Saturday. He had ridden a motor cycle before, but not the one he was riding on Tuesday. He had only just purchased that machine. - Charles Kiff, motor lorry driver of 47 Beacon-avenue, Polsloe Bridge, said he was driving his lorry at the junction of the Prince of Wales-road with Pennsylvania at 12.30 on Tuesday, when deceased came along behind. Deceased seemed to be wobbling and witness, thinking he was a novice, signalled him on. He was going at about ten miles an hour. Just by the entrance to the County Cricket Ground deceased appeared to let his clutch in too quickly and the machine dived down the hill. When witness reached the Hoopern pathfields he saw deceased's machine mount the pavement. Witness hurried down with a view to taking deceased to Hospital but found he was dead. - Michael John Mardon, 10 Snell's-buildings, Waterbeer-street, a Council workman, said he was in charge of the tip at the dip in Prince of Wales-road near Hoopern Farm. He saw a motor cyclist descending the hill at a rather fast pace. "Then the rider seemed to have a wobble," said witness, "and, in my opinion, he lost control of his machine. I saw him mount the pavement on the right-hand side of the bend, where he crashed into the fencing, while the motor cycle went on." - Dr Pereira Gray expressed the opinion that death was instantaneous and caused by an open fracture of the skull across the forehead. - The Deputy Coroner, in summing up, said the evidence pointed to lack of control on the part of deceased.

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Monday 29 December 1930
EXETER - Fatal Fall. Sidmouth Artist Who Watched Sunrise. Christmas Eve Tragedy. - The fatal fall of a Sidmouth artist from his bedroom window was described at an Inquest conducted at Exeter Guildhall on Saturday by Mr Linford Brown, Deputy City Coroner, on ALBERT EDWARD WHITE, aged 56, who died in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on Christmas Eve. - WILLIAM MONTGOMERY WHITE, solicitor, of 2 South-square, Gray's Inn, London, brother of the deceased, said the latter suffered from insomnia and giddiness. At the Hospital he asked the deceased how the accident happened, and he replied, "I became giddy and fell out of the window." Deceased had added that it was purely an accident, and there was no foundation for saying that he intended to take his life. He had no financial worries. - The widow said she occupied a second-floor room with her husband. The room faced east. At about 7 a.m. on Christmas Eve she was half-awake and saw her husband standing by the window with his coat and trousers over his pyjamas. It was not exceptional for him to do that. She asked him what he was doing, and he replied that he was going downstairs. "I was still half-asleep," added witness, "and the next thing was that I heard a funny noise and saw him going over the window." - In reply to the Coroner, she said she and her husband often looked out of the window to see the colours of the sunrise. They had to lean out somewhat to see it. The window seat was level with the bottom of the window and when the window was opened down, the top of it was about level with the knees of anyone standing on the seat. Her husband had suffered from giddiness and insomnia. Sometimes when they were walking in the street his legs had trembled and he had complained of feeling giddy. - The Coroner: Have you ever heard him make any suggestion to take his life? - Witness: No, never. - She added that after the fall she screamed and her mother came. She (witness) went down into the garden, where her husband was trying to get up. He said, "Let me go to bed," and asked for a cigarette. - Dr Webster, House Surgeon at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, said deceased was admitted at 1.45 p.m. on December 24th. His injuries were very severe, and included a fracture of the skull. He died the same evening through shock from the injuries. - The Coroner recorded a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, Tuesday 30 December 1930
BIDEFORD - Death From Burns. Bideford Inquest. - At an Inquest at Bideford Hospital last evening on MARGARET SHERBORNE, daughter of MR and MRS T. V. SHERBORNE, of Bideford, who died at the Institution from burns sustained when her clothing caught fire on December 20th, a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. The Jury, of which Mr C. Morris was Foreman, expressed sympathy with the parents.