Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

1928-1929

Articles taken from North Devon Journal

Inquests

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.

Provided by Lindsey Withers

[No's in brackets indicate the number of times that name occurs]

Names Included: Ackland; Adams; Ashton; Baker(2); Bale; Barrow; Beed; Beer; Berry; Betteridge; Bissett; Blackmore; Board; Bolt; Bowden; Bright; Brown; Brownscombe; Burgess; Burrow; Busby; Campbell; Catchpool; Clatworthy; Clifford; Coates(2); Cockings; Comer; Cross; Dawkins; Down; Elson; Elworthy; Favis; Ford; Frayne; Gaydon; Gilbert; Gordon; Harding(2); Harle; Headon(2); Hutchings; Huxtable; Kennor; Kingdon; Lewis; Marlborough; Meredith; Moore; Muddiman; Norman; Parker; Parkhouse; Paton; Pidler; Priscott; Prust; Sanchez; Scatchard; Scott; Slade; Snell; Stevens; Steward; Storm; Taylor(2); Thompson; Thorne; Tilston; Vaggers; Walker; Webber; Whitton; Williams; Yeo(2).

North Devon Journal, Thursday 5 January 1928
CHARLES - Impassable Roads. Doctor Unable To Reach Patient. - The North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, conducted an Inquest on Wednesday at Little Bray, an isolated spot, which, in order to reach, the Bray Valley had to be traversed. It was found that snow was still very deep and in places there were large drifts, so that it was impossible to proceed further by car than Brayford Bridge. The remaining half-a-mile had to be covered on foot through a narrow lane, in which snow at the sides was in places as high as the banks - eight feet or more. - The Inquest was on ROBERT STEWARD, aged 54, a butler, employed at Little Bray. Evidence was given by the widow that her husband was in his usual health on Boxing Day, when they went for a walk. Deceased shortly returned, however, and when she got back she found him sitting in the kitchen unable to speak properly. He was able to make her understand that he had not fallen down, and she thought perhaps the heat had overcome him when he went into the heat from the cold air outside. Deceased was got to bed and died at 1.20 a.m. on December 27th. - Mr Arthur Shapland said that he saw deceased as he returned, and he seemed to be quite all right and remarked that it was very cold. - Dr R. G. W. Sanders said that he had made a post-mortem examination and found that death was due to haemorrhage of the brain through the bursting of a blood vessel. He remarked that Dr Harper received a message to go out, but the roads were impassable on the 27th. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

North Devon Journal, Thursday 12 January 1928
BARNSTAPLE - Barnstaple Lady's Sad End. The Inquest. - Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, Barnstaple Borough Coroner, conducted an Inquiry on Tuesday, into the circumstances attending the death of MRS ETHEL FLORENCE ELSON, 35, of 54 Fairview- Barnstaple, who, on Monday evening, was found lying dead in the back kitchen by her husband, MR REGINALD VICTOR ELSON, a fireman on the Southern Railway. - The husband, giving evidence, said they had been married about seven years and there were two children, one aged six years and one born six weeks ago. Some four or five months ago his wife had become very depressed, but seemed all right as long as she had someone with her for company. On and off she seemed depressed for some two or three years. In answer to the Coroner, witness admitted that when depressed she had said she would be better out of it. Since the birth of the last child she had gradually got worse and had "fits of nerves." His wife, a short time ago, had gone away for a change, and on coming back had brought back a girl of sixteen for company. On the day of his tragic discovery the girl was in bed, as was also his little boy, with measles, and his wife had taken them food, and after that had left them and gone downstairs, and that had been the last time she had been seen alive. - At six o'clock on the same day, witness came home from work and found the doors locked and had to let himself in with a key. Not seeing his wife he shouted upstairs to ask where she was, and the answer was to the effect that they thought she was out shopping. He then opened the kitchen door and smelt gas. Rushing to the gas stove, he found his wife lying on her face, with her head in the gas oven. Under her head there was a bag of clothes pegs, a pillow and a tea cosy and there was a cloth hooked to the top of the oven, and brought down over her back, evidently to keep the gas in. The two taps were on, one each side of the head. He pulled her out, turned the gas off and ran next door and a neighbour ran for Dr Leavey. - Mrs Alice Ethel Babb gave evidence and said that she had seen deceased at 10.30 a.m., and had noticed nothing wrong. - Dr Killard Leavey said he found deceased lying as stated and tried artificial respiration for about 40 minutes, with no effect at all. Death, he should say, was due to asphyxiation by gas poisoning. He should say she had been dead from one to four hours and not less than an hour. - P.C. Newbery also gave evidence. - Returning a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind," the Coroner said it was a very sad and tragic occurrence. It was quite evident that her mind was unsettled by the birth of the child. He tendered to MR ELSON his deepest sympathy, and he was certain he was only expressing the feeling of the town generally when he said it.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 19 January 1928
PETROCKSTOWE - "Most Extraordinary Case." North Devon Coroner's Comment On Petrockstowe Occurrence. Jury Change Their Verdict. - The North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, at Petrockstowe, on Thursday afternoon, with a Jury, resumed the Inquest on the body of a newly-born child found on December 24th in a hedge on Little Marland Farm. The Inquest had been adjourned for the attendance of GLADYS HUTCHINGS, aged 20, a servant for the past two years in the employ of Mr and Mrs Martin, at Little Marland Farm. At the previous hearing it was stated that at about 9 a.m. on December 24th, Walter Broome, a farm labourer, reported having found the body of a baby in the hedge about 100 yards from the house. When questioned by Mrs Martin, HUTCHINGS denied the body had anything to do with her. The girl's mother and the Police were sent for. P.C. Redwood, of Merton, said he cautioned the girl, who admitted to him the child was hers, and that she took it where it was found at 5 o'clock that morning. - The Jury empanelled included two women, and Mr W. Fishleigh was chosen Foreman. Capt. Gordon, Superintendent of Police for the Okehampton Division, was present and Mr T. Oerton, junr., Bideford, appeared to represent the girl. - Mrs Martin said prior to HUTCHINGS complaining of feeling unwell on the afternoon or evening of December 23rd, she noticed nothing at all wrong concerning her during the preceding week or two, nor had she appeared to be worrying. HUTCHINGS called her before she (witness) went to bed on the 23rd and complained of discomfort, which she treated her for, not suspecting the real nature of her illness; she also gave her a small drop of whisky. The next morning the girl looked poorly. - Dr Mortimer, of Torrington, said he saw HUTCHINGS in September last, she having consulted him about certain matters in connection with her health and complained of being run down. Whilst he did not ask her whether she was pregnant, he formed certain opinions from her answers and he gave her medicine, but did not examine her. - Mr Oerton thought the evidence of what the girl had been through and done, suggested that she was abnormal; there were not many women would have gone through what she had and resumed their usual activities. - Dr Mortimer said there was no suggestion he should examine the girl. He saw her again two weeks later; he had suspicions, but they were not confirmed. - The Coroner: Could these injuries which the child sustained have been caused by being dropped on the floor? - Dr Mortimer: Yes, quite possibly. Witness further gave the opinion that the child was born alive and had breathed. - Answering a further question, witness said that if there had been no injuries there was no reason why the child should not have lived, as it was normal and healthy. - Asked if the throwing of the child into the hedge might have caused some injury, witness replied that it might, but he did not think it was likely. - Answering P.S. Phillpotts, Dr Mortimer said it was possible for injuries to have been caused by one blow, in dropping to the floor; it was also conceivable that the child's elbow might have been smashed by such a fall. He thought the child lived for some little time after the injuries took place, and it might have been breathing still when it was put in the hedge. The injuries would not, he thought, have been caused entirely by the child being thrown in the hedge. - MRS HUTCHINGS, mother of the girl, said when Dr Mortimer was asked regarding her daughter's health in September, she had no suspicions concerning pregnancy, and her appearance suggested nothing, nor even later. - Frank Jennings, farm labourer, of Petersmarland, said he had been keeping company with GLADYS HUTCHINGS for about three years. She told him of her consultation with the doctor and it was thought she would be alright again. No reference to the possibility of her expecting a child was made. - GLADYS HUTCHINGS elected to give evidence, and said some time ago she communicated the suspicions she had to the last witness and also saw the doctor, but later those suspicions were not entertained. On the night of December 23rd, after having the stimulant from her mistress she went to sleep and later found herself half dazed and half asleep out of bed. She could not say whether anything happened. She got into bed again and went off to sleep once more, and waking up later lit the light and was surprised to see a child on the floor by the side of the bed. She heard no cry. Putting on a coat over her nightdress and a pair of shoes, she carried the child by the arm to the field where it was found and threw it on the top of the hedge. She then returned to bed about 5 a.m. Up to the early morning of the 24th December she did not know she was pregnant. Asked if she did anything to the child, she replied: "Nothing at all, sir." - By Mr T. Oerton: She was still taking medicine up to the time the child was born. After taking the whisky given her by Mrs Martin, she went right off to sleep. The baby made no sound or movement and when she threw it in the hedge she believed it to be dead. The Coroner said it was the most extraordinary case that had come to his notice. - The Jury, after a brief retirement, unanimously returned a verdict of "Infanticide," the Foreman remarking that they hoped it would be a lesson to the young generation. - The Coroner said that on that verdict he had no alternative but to issue a warrant for the committal of GLADYS HUTCHINGS to take her trial at the forthcoming Assizes at Exeter. - In answer to the Coroner as to the actual cause of death, the Foreman said they took the doctor's evidence that it was the result of a fall - the fractured skull - which might be caused by accident. - The Foreman said the Jury thought the verdict of infanticide was midway between accidental death and manslaughter. In considering the girl's age, they thought that would only be, in a sense, fair. - It was suggested the Jury should again consider the matter and after a further retirement the Jury said they now found that the child died of a fractured skull and other injuries caused by falling on the floor when the mother was in a semi-conscious state, so that the verdict would be one of "Accidental Death." - The Coroner thereupon withdrew his observations in regard to the issuing of a warrant.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 26 January 1928
TORRINGTON - Strange Story At North Devon Inquest. - There were unusual features about an Inquest opened at Torrington today on CECIL JAMES BISSETT, of Petrockstow, who died on Sunday. Deceased was to have been buried on Wednesday, but the funeral was stopped on receipt of a letter suggesting that death was due to poisoning. Dr Kinnaird Leavey said the appearance of the stomach was consistent with the presence of an irritant poison, and portions had been removed for pathological examination. The Inquest was adjourned for a fortnight.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 2 February 1928
MOLLAND - A North Devon Tragedy. Accused Of Theft At Exeter. The Sequel - Suicide. - There were unusual features in an Inquest conducted at Molland yesterday by Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner for North Devon, on WILLIAM JAMES BEED, 24, roadman, whose body was found in the river Yeo on Monday. On the clothing were two letters, one indicating where the body would be found. - PHILIP BEED, the father, spoke to his son going to Exeter with a party of friends on Saturday. On Sunday evening he left home saying he was going to Knowstone Church, but did not return. Later, deceased's bicycle was found in a field and subsequently the body was discovered in the river Yeo, deceased's overcoat, scarf and cap being on the bank. - The Coroner read the letter addressed to MRS BEED: "My darling mother and father (it ran) I am ever so sorry to write these lines to you, but I am got fed up with it. I have been wronged all through my life. I feel I cannot endure it any longer." The letter continued: "Dear mother, don't worry anything about me because I shall be happy with my Father in Heaven. I went in Woolworths last night and took a few things I wanted when I saw Herb (a friend) across the shop. I slipped over to see him and was coming back to pay for it when a man took me outside and accused me of pinching it, which I did not mean to do, and, of course, he summons me. I cannot face it again. Do not blame me, it is all through (here deceased gave a name). Please pray to God and ask Him to be merciful to my soul. We shall meet again on the beautiful shores beyond the grave." The letter concluded: "You will find me down Hall River, just under the woods in the deep pit." - Witness further said an action for maintenance of a child had been brought against deceased, but was dismissed. His son had had a motor accident which left him out of sorts in his head for a long time. - George Underhill, farmer, stated he met deceased riding his bicycle on Sunday night. The other letter referred to was addressed to witness's sister, whom deceased had met that night. The Coroner read the letter, which he said disclosed that there was no difference between them, and absolutely no reason owing to her that he should have taken his life. - Colin F. Woolveridge, assistant manager to F. Woolworth and Co., Exeter, deposed that in the store on Saturday evening he first saw BEED take a four feet two-fold rule and put it in his overcoat pocket. BEED stood there about ten minutes, handled some other things, then took up a plumb-bob, which witness wrapped up, taking 6d. for it. BEED next went to the hardware counter and took up an emery block, which witness saw him put in his pocket. Then he handled some pipes and put two in his pocket, and handed another over to the assistant and paid her 6d. Next he went across to some friends and witness asked him to go to the receiving room and to turn out the articles he had taken from the counter. Deceased denied it at first and admitted it afterwards. - The Coroner: What did he say? - He said: Oh, sir, I did not mean to do it. I meant to pay for it, but some friends called me. I meant to pay when I came back. Deceased was given in charge of a detective and taken to Exeter Police Station, where he made a similar statement. - Mr S. G. Case, retired Schoolmaster, and Mr F. Blackmore, for whom deceased had worked for eight years, both gave BEED the highest character. - The Coroner thought it an exceedingly sad case. With regard to the incident at Woolworth's he thought that if a person was seen taking a thing he should be at once asked if he meant to pay for it, or why he had put it in his pocket. To allow anybody to take other articles until he had got a sufficient number to warrant a charge, he thought a most reprehensible practice and the sooner it was stopped the better. He knew Woolworths to be a very good firm, but their shops were often overrun and sometimes people could not get anyone to attend to them. He believed the young man intended to pay for the things, but the incident appeared to have affected his mind considerably. He, the Coroner, had heard from Capt. Phillips, in whose company of the 6th Devon Territorials the deceased was, that there was not a better young fellow in it. Returning a verdict of Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind, the Coroner said he hoped Mr Woolveridge would lay the matter before the authorities at Woolworths so that the practice he had commented on should be stopped at once. It was not English.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 9 February 1928
TORRINGTON - North Devon Poisoning Case. Inquest And Verdict. - At Torrington yesterday, Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner for North Devon, concluded the Inquest on CECIL JAMES BISSETT, 24, of Aish Cross, Petrockstowe, which had stood adjourned for an analysis of a portion of the stomach. BISSETT, who had been employed as a milkman at Yelverton, reached home on January 15th, being next day treated by Dr W. F. Mitchell, of Hatherleigh, for a cut on the back of his left wrist, which he said he sustained through a safety razor which he had in his pocket when climbing down over a rock to a field. He became ill, complaining of stomach pains, was very sick and died on January 21st, influenza being the supposed cause of death. Subsequently, Dr Mitchell and the Police received letters bearing the signature either "S." or "T." Kneebones, one of which ran: "Dear sir, - I think it is my duty to tell you that CECIL BISSIT tried to cut his harm last Sunday and he drink some poesin Friday morning. They say he dude it cause he is owing money every place." The other stated: "Dear Doctor, - Do you know that CECIL BISITT drink some poisen Friday morning? He told me hissul. I have told the Police." On learning of the receipt of the letters the Coroner at once intervened in the funeral arrangements and ordered a post-mortem examination of the body, which Dr Killard Leavey, of Torrington, made. He found the appearance of the stomach consistent with the presence of an irritant poison, and a portion of the organs were thereupon removed for pathological examination and analysis. - Mrs Hooper, of Church Gate, Petrockstowe, who was sent for by MRS BISSETT to lay out the body, said the hands were clenched and the appearance of the body was unusual in appearance where death had taken place so recently. MRS BISSETT had told her (witness) that a doctor wanted to make a post mortem but that she did not want to be bothered about that. - Coroner: Did you think BISSETT had died an unnatural death? - "I thought he looked a very funny colour. " Witness denied having suggested it was poisoning and she knew nothing about the letters. - Thomas Tickle, Public Analyst for Devon, said he found in the kidneys the presence of iodine in the form of iodide. If iodine were taken internally it would be transformed into iodide gradually and at length completely. He could not say with any safety how long the substance had been inside deceased. It would probably be some days. - The Coroner: We have heard that he had calomel given to him. What effect would that have? - The action of the calomel would be greatly intensified by the iodine previously taken. Witness said it was only given medicinally, and in very minute doses. - Would the action of the two tend to paralyse the internal organs? - Yes, but I should prefer to leave opinions on these matters to the doctor. - Witness said there was possibly sufficient found in the stomach to produce symptoms to cause death. - He found that the remains of the medicine contained no iodine or iodide, or calomel. - Dr Killard Leavey, of Torrington, who made the post-mortem examination, said from the condition of the heart death was due to syncope, following an irritant poison. - Dr Mitchell stated that he was called to BISSETT years ago frequently for nothing. On the last occasion he asked the father if it was simply for the cut on his arm that he wanted him and told he was suffering from constipation, he supplied two grains of calomel. Witness nearly passed the house once afterwards, and had he known BISSETT was ill he would have called and seen him. - Coroner: Did you suggest to MRS BISSETT on the 21st that there should be a post-mortem? - I was very angry at not being informed that the boy was ill and asked why they did not send, MRS BISSETT replying that she sent on Thursday. - Did you suggest making a post-mortem? - No; I suggested an Inquest. - You took no steps to report it? - No, because from what MRS BISSETT told me I thought it was acute influenza. Witness thought it quite safe in giving a certificate. - If you had ascertained BISSETT had taken poison would you have prescribed calomel? - No; I should not have under the circumstances. I should have tried to find out what the poisoning was before prescribing. - The Coroner here remarked that they had been trying to trace the writer of the letters. They had their suspicions, but the person whom they had hoped to get to the Inquest was taken unwell and unable to attend. None of them cared for anonymous letters but in this case it had opened up the question. He did not mind very much where the letters came from, but it would have been more satisfactory to have had the information. - P.S. Phillpotts, of Hatherleigh, stated that inquiries revealed that BISSETT had been in financial difficulties and a bottle of iodine had been found at Princetown, where deceased had lodged. BISSETT had had letters threatening proceedings if his debts were not settled. - MRS BISSETT informed the Jury that she did not recollect any suggestion of a post-mortem examination and she had not the slightest suspicion that deceased had taken anything. - The Coroner said deceased must have taken the iodine and if he had been treated properly at the time he might have been living today. - The Jury found that death was due to Poisoning, and that BISSETT Committed Suicide, although they expressed no opinion as to the state of his mind. Seeing that Dr Mitchell had admitted he was once within a mile of the house, they thought it was his duty to have called and seen deceased. They did not think Dr Mitchell's conduct amounted to criminal negligence, but were of opinion it was deserving of censure. - The Coroner, addressing Dr Mitchell, said he agreed with the verdict. He thought the doctor was negligent in the way he had managed the case and in giving the certificate he did. In his 25 years' experience as a Coroner that was the first time he had ever had to censure a doctor, and he was very sorry indeed to do it. [ Note: There is a photo of Cecil James Bissett in the Western Times, 3 February 1928. P.5].

North Devon Journal, Thursday 16 February 1928
SHIRWELL - Found Dead In Bed. - MR JOHN BARROW, 82, retired carpenter, who had lived alone for some years, was found dead in bed on Monday. At the Inquest, before Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner for North Devon, on Thursday, Mr J. Wilkey, a neighbour, stated that he took MR BARROW some dinner on Sunday and again saw him in the evening, when he appeared perfectly well. Failing to see him on Monday, and getting no answer to calls, witness summoned P.C. Hocking, who, on getting an entrance to the house, found deceased lying in bed in a natural position, quite dead. - Dr Killard Leavey, of Barnstaple, who made a post-mortem examination, attributed death to heart failure; and a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 23 February 1928
BRAUNTON - The Braunton Tragedy. - The North Devon Coroner, Mr Geo. W. F. Brown, on Tuesday held an Inquest at Braunton on ARTHUR HENRY ASHTON, aged 1 year and 7 months, who was drowned the previous day in the river Caen, at Braunton, which adjoins Scur Farm, where the child lived. - MRS LAURA ANNIE ASHTON, the mother, stated the previous morning she was in the wash house, in the yard, and the boy was in the yard. About 10.30 she heard the girl call to him to get out of the way of the cows. - The Coroner: Was the girl supposed to be looking after him? - Yes, she thought he was in the wash house with me and I thought he was in the house with her, and that is how it happened. About ten minutes past eleven witness went to have his lunch and missed the child. She immediately thought of the stream and went out with the girl, and the latter found the boy in the water. He was then apparently dead. There was no protection whatever against the stream, which could be fenced easily. It was not their property. This particular spot belonged to the parish. - Dr F. R. Wright attributed death to drowning. - The Coroner, returning a verdict of Accidental Death by Drowning, said he would inspect the spot, and, if he thought it necessary, would write to the authorities.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 15 March 1928
ILFRACOMBE - Schoolboy Tragedy At Ilfracombe. - The North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, held an Inquest at the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital, Ilfracombe, on Saturday, on GEORGE WILLIAM JOHN BROWN, aged seven, son of MR and MRS BROWN, of Inglewood, Highfield-road, Ilfracombe, who was knocked down and killed by a lorry in Victoria-road the previous Thursday. The Coroner said the boy was returning home from Hermitage School, and in Victoria-road was run over by a lorry laden with cake. The driver of the lorry had reversed at the top of the road and was backing to unload at stores at the bottom. After going a few yards the driver's mate called out that a little boy was under the lorry and the driver stopped immediately. - The father of the deceased, FREDERICK GEORGE BROWN, said he had told the boy to come home that way to avoid the busier traffic of High-street. - Dr Soltau said one of the wheels of the lorry must have passed over the head of the boy, and death must have been almost instantaneous. - Frederick Ralph, the driver of the lorry, said he had backed down the road about 20 yards when his mate, George Mayne, who was standing on the running board of the lorry, told him to stop as he had run over a boy. The left wheel had passed over deceased's head. Neither witness nor his mate saw the boy before he had been run over. - The Coroner: Can you understand how you did not see the boy? - Witness: No, sir. I could see half the road and my mate could see the other half. In my opinion deceased was riding on the tail-board. - Police-Sergt. Snell, in answer to the Coroner, said the tail-board was 4 ft. 9 in. from the ground. - Witness, in reply to a question by the father of the deceased, admitted that a short time ago he knocked down a man with the same lorry. - Mr T. Parker (Foreman of the Jury): Was your mate standing on the running board from the time you started the reverse? - Witness: Yes, and we could see no one. - The father of the child: You distinctly told me you were both in the cab looking out. For the sake of the children of Ilfracombe lorry drivers should not be allowed to back down a road like this unless there is a man on the look out behind. - George Mayne said he was standing on the running board, but did not see the boy until he was under the lorry. - Gordon Huxtable, aged seven ,said he was going home from school with GEORGIE BROWN when the accident happened. They were playing with a ball and GEORGIE BROWN was standing in the middle of the road with his back to the lorry. He just saw the lorry run against him and knock him down. - The Coroner, summing up, said he did not think for a moment that the deceased was hanging on to the back of the lorry. The only question was, were the driver and his mate looking out and if they were looking out, as their view obscured. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." They thought the driver's mate should have been at the rear of the lorry and that when a lorry was being reversed there should be a man walking at the back. They considered that all schools a lesson should be given to the children occasionally on the danger of street traffic. - The Coroner remarked that all the schools at Barnstaple were provided with a set of posters issued by the Safety First League. Once a week the teachers gave a little talk to the children on the posters. He thought these posters should be in every school. - Both the Coroner and Jury expressed sympathy with the parents of deceased.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 22 March 1928
ILFRACOMBE - An Ilfracombe Tragedy. Motor-Car Runs Into Group Of Children. One Killed: Several Injured. - Details of a particularly sad tragedy were brought to light on Monday at Ilfracombe Town Hall, when the North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, sat with a Jury to hold an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of a little girl, JEAN WINIFRED RUTH CAMPBELL, aged nearly five years, the only child of MRS CAMPBELL of 8 Foxbeare-road, Ilfracombe, who was knocked down and killed on Sunday by a car driven by Mrs Armstrong, the wife of the manager of the Ilfracombe Gas Company, of Combe Lodge, Chambercombe, Ilfracombe. Mr R. Fairbrass was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - MRS CAMPBELL, the mother, said her child would have been five years of age next Saturday. She left home about quarter to eleven to go to the Hele Congregational Sunday School, going up the road with other little girls. It was only about five minutes after deceased had left the house that she was informed of the accident. - Mrs Armstrong, the owner of the car desired to give evidence and was represented by Mr W. F. Watts, Solicitor. She left home for the Garage at about quarter to eleven, arriving there about three minutes later. An employee named Turnbull went outside to see if the road was clear. As she was nearly out of the Garage Turnbull had his left hand up to something coming up the hill. He did nothing else - only put his hand up and she took it she was clear. - The Coroner: When you came out of the garage what gear were you in? - I was in bottom gear and when I got out of the gate on the road I saw a car close on me coming up the road. It was close enough to me to make me feel I had to accelerate to avoid a collision, which I did. - The Coroner: And where did you get to? - I went across the road and mounted the kerb. The children, seeing the car, were naturally frightened and screamed. They were a little below me to the right. "I threw out my clutch and put out my right foot for the brake, but in my anxiety my foot must have slipped from the brake to the accelerator, and the car shot forward. I went between the tree and the wall and swerved completely round from the pavement and across the road. I tried to get at the footbrake but failed to do so and I caught against it and ripped my stocking." - The Coroner: Have you ever done that before? - No, never. - How long have you been driving this car? - I started two years ago. - How long have you been regularly driving/ - I have been regularly driving it about a month now. I have been out a number of times alone without the chauffeur. - Did you see if oncoming car was moving? - I think so. - You were not very certain? - I think I could be certain. If it had stopped I should have not accelerated. - Mr Watts: Had you got your foot on the clutch all the time? - Not all the time. I was particularly careful to let the clutch out gently coming out of the garage. If I had done it quickly I should have been all right. I tried my handbrake and found it satisfactory. - In further answer to Mr Watts witness said the car jumped. - The Coroner: This car is rather inclined to jump isn't it? - I do not remember it having jumped before. - The footbrake and accelerator are very close together? - Yes, only about 2 inches. - Mr Watts: it is only about an inch. - William Turnball, of Chambercombe-road, Ilfracombe, stated that he told Mrs Armstrong the road was clear, but by the time she had started and was coming out another car was coming up the road. Witness, who was standing mid-way between the two cars, then put up his left hand. - The Coroner: Was that signal meant to stop Mrs Armstrong coming out or to stop the car coming up the road? - To stop the oncoming car. - Oughtn't you to have stopped Mrs Armstrong? - Well, she was practically on the road then. - You know this car was coming up a steep hill? - Yes, but the one coming up would stop more quickly than the one going down. - Did you see him stop? - No, I was watching Mrs Armstrong and saw her car going straight in front of the other. - It just cleared in front of it? - Yes. - Did you see the other car pass on? - I didn't notice the other car again until I got to Mrs Armstrong's car after it had hit the wall opposite. - Then did her car cross the road again? - Yes. - How did she come out of the garage? - It was fairly slow. - Witness agreed the signal he gave might have caused a little confusion. But he did not know the correct rules of the road. - George Goss, a Combe Martin builder, who was driving the car coming up the hill, said Turnbull gave rather a weak signal. It was a sort of indication, but not a definite signal. - The Coroner: Did you take the signal to mean you to stop? - I did not, sir. - The Coroner: What brought you to a standstill? - It was not the signal, but I saw the bonnet of the car. - Rev. E. Hardwick, B.Sc., Combe Martin, who was in Mr Goss's car, said he saw the car coming out and his car stopped immediately. They were several yards from the Garage. It was not by any means close and had there been no fatal accident, they would never had taken any notice of it at all. - The Coroner: Was there plenty of room for Mrs Armstrong to come out? - I marvelled she went on to the path at all as she did. There was plenty of room for her to go out. - Dr Boone said the girl had a fracture of the base of the skull. The wheel had probably gone over her head. - P.C. Vickery (Ilfracombe) said after the accident he found the car in the off side hedge, almost head-one, but looking slightly down the hill. The road was 21 ft. wide, and the whole footpath 6 ft. 2 in., but, measuring inside the tree 5 ft. There were trees planted on the edge of the footpath. The car was damaged. - The Coroner, summing up, said only a week previously he was there inquiring about the circumstances of the death of a little boy who had run out from the pavement into the road and was run over by a lorry. ~The Jury then thought the attention of schools and others, should be called to the Safety First movement and that children should keep to the pavement and not go into the road. But these poor little things were going to Sunday School and keeping on the pavement. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death, owing to Mrs Armstrong's foot, in the confusion of the moment, slipping from the brake to the accelerator. The Jury would suggest that legislation be speedily passed to apply suitable tests to all applicants for drivers' licenses." - Sympathy with the mother was expressed by the Jury, who handed their fees to her. The Coroner concurred with these sentiments and Mr Watts expressed the grief of Mr and Mrs Armstrong at the tragic occurrence.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 19 April 1928
BIDEFORD - Bideford Motor Fatality. Inquest Story. - At the Inquest held at Bideford on Tuesday afternoon by the North Devon Coroner, Mr W. F. Brown, on the body of LESLIE EDWARD TAYLOR, aged 19, son of MR TAYLOR, painter, of Geneva-place, Bideford, who met with a fatal motor-cycling accident near Bideford on Monday, Mr Herniman Prust Woodyatt, grocer, of High-street, Bideford, said deceased had been in his employ for ten years. On Monday, at 12.40 p.m., deceased started off on his (witness's) motor-cycle for Littleham for orders, that being the last time he saw him alive. Deceased was a careful driver and used to clean the machine, and he (witness) overhauled it on each occasion. The machine, as far as he knew, was in good order, and he had not received any complaints from deceased. It was obtained at the end of 1926. The Ashridge-road, on which deceased met his accident, was a short cut he sometimes took. - Wm. Littlejohns, Willett-street, Bideford, who was working with horses in a field adjoining the scene of the accident, said he heard no noise, but, chancing to look over the hedge, saw a motor-cycle lying on the ground and deceased near it, being about three feet behind the machine. Witness went to the assistance of deceased, who was conscious, but unable to speak, and lifted him to the side of the road and then went for help. - Replying to Police-Inspector Parr, witness said he had been working in the field the whole of the time, but heard no sound of any other vehicle passing along the road. - E. Beer, Hallsannery Farm, spoke to being summoned by his workman, and at once proceeded with his motor-cycle and side-car to the injured lad, whom he conveyed subsequently to the Bideford Hospital. Deceased was unconscious all the time. - Dr J. E. Francis (Northam) said he arrived at the Hospital shortly after TAYLOR was admitted and found him unconscious, blood coming from his nose, with abrasions on the chin and right side of his face and a large bruise on the left side of the forehead. Death was due to fracture of the base of the skull and cerebral haemorrhage The boy died at three p.m. Witness thought there must have been something between deceased's head and what he struck, probably a cap or something, because the wound on the head was clean of gravel, while the other side of his face was scratched, as if he had struck the ground. - It was mentioned by another witness that deceased would have been wearing a cap at the time. - P.C. Hutchings gave measurements of the road and said it appeared from his examination of the machine that the fork had left the spindle on the front wheel, and this may have caused a jam, causing deceased to make several bounds and skids before coming off. The brake cable was also broken. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" in accordance with the medical evidence.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 3 May 1928
BIDEFORD - Bideford Street Fatality. Old-Age Pensioner Steps In Front Of Car. Driver Exonerated. - That the cause of death was accidental and that there was no blame whatever attaching to the driving of the motor car which knocked her down, was the unanimous verdict of a Jury, of which Mr F. H. Sanguine was Foreman, and which Enquired with the North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, at Bideford and District Hospital on Monday evening into the cause of the death of MISS BESSIE WILLIAMS, aged 74, an old-age pensioner who had for the past five years been lodging with Mrs Martha Hookway, in Geneva Place. - Mr Frederick Charles Braund, Bucks Mills, was driving a touring car down Clovelly-road on the afternoon of 5th April. He was following another car and was easing down with the foot-brake in the straight preparatory to turning down Meddon-street, and when just opposite Geneva Place, he said he suddenly saw deceased in front of the car, almost touching the off wing. He put on the hand-brake also immediately, and pulled up within the car's length, but deceased was knocked down. He had been watching the car in front to see if it was going to turn, and had not noticed deceased either on the pavement or in the road. He was driving about six or seven miles an hour. - Mrs Mary Jane Davey said she was opposite Meddon-street Post Office, and saw the car coming down Clovelly-road very slowly. Deceased was coming down round Geneva, and seemed to step off the pavement and walk straight into the wheel of the car. - By the Coroner: She did not think there was any blame attaching to the driver. - Mrs Hookway said deceased was a little weak in her sight and somewhat hard of hearing. - Mr Js. Slade, 48 Old Town, who with Mr Dymond took deceased to her home before she was removed to Hospital, spoke to the car coming down very steadily. - Dr C. Wilson said the injuries were a compound fracture of the left arm, and a fracture of the left thigh (the latter disclosed by X-rays). She had been suffering from chronic bronchitis for years, and acute bronchitis supervening on the injury and shock, she died on Sunday morning, the best of nursing and attention having proved unavailing. - The Jury returned a verdict as stated. - Inspector Parr watched the Inquiry on behalf of the Police.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 24 May 1928
BIDEFORD - Bideford Man's Shock. Wife Brought To Him Dying In Doctor's Waiting Room. - ALBERT FORD, a general labourer, of 9 Bull Hill, Bideford, had a shock on Saturday evening when his wife was brought to him dying in a doctor's waiting room and expired within ten minutes without regaining consciousness. It was stated at the Inquest on Monday evening that the deceased had suffered from sleepy sickness, and the medical evidence was that that fact might have had something to do with her sudden death. - Her husband told the Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, that his wife, MARGARET JANE, was 41 years of age. About 6.30 on Saturday evening she accompanied him when he went to consult Dr Ellis Pearson. She remained outside and he was in the waiting room when his wife was brought in, in an unconscious condition, and died almost immediately. His wife had sleepy sickness about four years ago and never really recovered from the effects although she had been rather better lately. She had been subject to fits but he had never heard of her having them until after the sleepy sickness. She seemed as usual on Saturday evening except that when walking up High-street she passed her hand across her forehead and remarked that she had such a funny feeling, but apparently it passed off. - Philip Kelly, doctor's chauffeur, spoke to seeing deceased walking up and down outside the surgery after her husband had gone in, and he afterwards found her lying down in the gutter unconscious. She had apparently fallen. With assistance he carried her into the waiting room. - Dr Ellis Pearson said when he was called into the waiting room deceased had been placed on a couch and her husband was beside her. She was unconscious and died within ten minutes without recovering consciousness. A post-mortem examination showed the heart to be hypertrophied, while death was due to cerebral haemorrhage. - The Coroner: Do you think the sleepy sickness illness had anything to do with it. The spine was usually mostly affected by that disease. - The Coroner remarked that he believed that in a large proportion of the cases which recovered some permanent disability remained. He returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes, as described by Dr Pearson.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 31 May 1928
BARNSTAPLE - Terrible Char-A-Banc Smash In North Devon. Braunton's New Band Involved. One Member Dead; Several Others Severely Injured. Inquest Adjourned. - An otherwise perfect day spent by the members of Braunton's newly-formed silver band on Thursday at Woolacombe (where they had taken part in a British Legion Rally in connection with Empire Day) had a terribly tragic ending in the evening, a motor-smash resulting in one of the members of the band sustaining fatal injuries and most of the others being severely injured. - The Smash At Heddon Mills. - Driven by Andrew Mackie (of Barnstaple) in a 14-seater char-a-banc owned by Mr T. Bassett, of Braunton, the band left Woolacombe shortly before eight o'clock, and were returning home by way of the main Ilfracombe-Braunton road. Nothing untoward happened until Heddon Mills, which is within sight of Braunton, was reached and it was here that the tragedy occurred. The char-a-banc was negotiating the narrow bend in the road, when it came into collision with a four-seater motor-car driven by Mr E. J. Benison, of Adelphi-terrace, Paignton, who was accompanied by his wife and their son, Rev. G. L. Benison of Ilfracombe. The result was sensational, the char-a-banc in turn swinging right round in the road and then plunging into the hedge, and most of the occupants being hurled in all directions into the roadway. The terrific crash was heard some distance away, and when helpers rushed to the scene the pitiable scene presented itself of men lying bleeding and helpless on the ground. It may here be conveniently stated that those on the char-a-banc, in addition to the driver (Mackie) were Messrs. George Incledon, WILLIAM JOHN COCKINGS, Charles Dunn, Fredk. Reed, E. J. Brooks, W. Jewell, W. Kift, W. Bray, R. Kerswill, Fredk. Thorne, D. Sims, and A. Dennis. Dr F. R. E. Wright, of Braunton, was promptly in attendance, and after temporary treatment those most seriously injured (Messrs. Cocking, Dunn, Incledon, and Reed) were removed to the North Devon Infirmary at Barnstaple. - The Injured And Their Statements. - The gravest case was that of MR COCKINGS (tenor horn player) who was suffering from a fracture of the base of the skull and broken ribs. He was unconscious when removed to the Institution. - Mr Chas. Dunn (bass player), wheelwright and single man, of Heanton-street, had serious injuries, diagnosed as concussion. He was in a semi-conscious state when picked up. - Mr F. Reed (trombone player), builder, of Heanton-street, had both arms broken, and a dislocation and fracture of the elbow and injuries to his head. Seen by one of the our representatives in the Instauration on Friday, Mr Reed was well enough to state that at the time he was sitting on the back seat of the char--banc and he did not see the oncoming motor-car. All he knew was that there was a tremendous smash and he was suddenly shot from the back over the front of the char-a-banc. He had the presence of mind to put out his arms in falling and although both were fractured, this fact probably saved his life. - Mr George Incledon (bass drummer), of Field-lane, Braunton, had severe head and face injuries, together with bruises and cuts. - Mr W. J. Jewell (bass player) of Wrafton-road, sustained injuries to his left side and shoulder and cuts on his hand and left ear. A very heavy man, weighing 15 stone, Mr Jewell stated that he, too, was shot from the back seat of the char-a-banc to the front. That, under the circumstances, he was not more seriously injured, is indeed a matter for surprise. Mr Jewell mentioned that he had his instrument in his hand when the smash came, and never relaxed his grasp. - Councillor Fred Thorne (tenor horn), builder, of Heanton-street, had a nasty blow at the back of his head and a cut on the lip, whilst some of his teeth were knocked out. He, too, was in a semiconscious state when picked up. - Mr A. Dennis (solo cornet), butcher, of The Square, Braunton, was the only bandsman who was not thrown out of the char-a-banc, saving himself by gripping the wind-screen. He was nevertheless severely bruised about the legs and he sustained a cut on the face and lost one tooth. He was smoking at the time and the accident broke the bowl of the pipe clean off, leaving the stem in his mouth. - Mr E. J. Brooks (solo cornet), master painter, of Caen-street, who was sitting in the front seat of the char-a-banc, was shot clean through the wind-screen. He sustained nasty cuts and rash on his face and hands and superficial body injuries. - Mr W. Bray (another solo cornet player), shipwright, of North-street, Braunton, sustained slight injuries to his arms, leg and ankle. He was among the first to render first aid to the more seriously injured. - Mr W. Kift (piccolo player) , master tailor, attributed the fact that he escaped with minor injuries to his face and right hand to carrying a large silver watch, which was bent in it striking the char-a-banc in the fall. In his own words Mr Kift at once "picked" himself up, and went to the aid of others injured. - Mr R. Kerswill (second cornet), carpenter, of Down House, Braunton, was also fortunate in escaping with slight injuries; and was out of doors again on Friday. - Mr D. Sims (solo euphonium), an ex-policeman and auxiliary postman, of Townsend, Braunton, sustained bad cuts about the head and face and a nasty injury to the knee. This became greatly swollen subsequently and he was removed to the North Devon Infirmary for treatment. - Mr Andrew Mackie the driver of the motor char-a-banc, was one of the most fortunate of the whole party, escaping with a few slight cuts. - It transpired that six members of the band were not in the char-a-banc when the accident happened. Mr W. H. Chapple (solo cornet), the conductor and his brother, Mr J. H. Chapple, of Barnstaple, who had also assisted with his solo cornet, both returned home by train, whilst three others remained behind at Woolacombe for a dance, namely, Mr C. May (cornet), and the side drummer (Mr F. Moon), and baritone player, Mr J. Dendle. Mr G. Chichester (second cornet) was following the char-a-banc on his motor-cycle. - Mr and Mrs Benison and their son (who were occupying the motor-car) also escaped injury, due probably to the fact that it was not a head-one collision. At the time Mr and Mrs Benison were on their way to Ilfracombe in order to spend Whitsuntide with their son - Rev. G. L. Benison, who is Curate of S.S. Philip and James', who was driving. The car was actually struck just behind the driver's seat and one of the back wheels was badly damaged. Very extensive damage was caused to the motor char-a-banc. - The Helpers. - Mr W. J. Pelke, of St Bernards, Ilfracombe, in an interview with a representative of the "Express and Echo," Exeter, said he was driving his car from Ilfracombe towards Braunton, and when about a mile from the scene of the accident he heard a tremendous crash. He found the char-a-banc, as stated, with its front badly damaged, where it had been in collision with a motor-car. There were several men lying about injured and bleeding. He rendered assistance and also towed the char-a-banc to the side of the road. - Mr P. Paul, who lives near by, and heard the smash, with others, rendered assistance and Mr G. Chichester fetched Drs. Wright and Traill from Braunton. - Mr W. A. Lewis, who was going to Braunton to a dance with a party, also took some of the injured to Hospital, dropping his passengers for the time being. - P.S. Challlice, of Braunton, was among the early arrivals and did valuable work. - The band possessed a valuable set of silver-plated instruments, which were only recently purchased. Most of them were damaged, but fortunately this is covered by insurance. - Death of MR COCKINGS. - We greatly regret to state that MR COCKINGS died from his injuries at the North Devon Infirmary on Friday, never having recovered consciousness. Aged 38, MR COCKINGS was a carpenter residing at 38 Silver-street, Braunton, and he was a man held in the highest esteem and regard in the district. To the widow and twelve-year-old son in their tragic bereavement, public sympathy has been extended in the fullest measure. A report of the opening of the Inquest proceedings is subjoined. - The Inquest: An Adjournment. - At the Inquest on Saturday morning at the North Devon Infirmary, only formal evidence and the House Surgeon's evidence was given. In addition to the Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, and his clerk (Mr S. A. Copp), there were present Police-Inspector Leach and P.-Sergeant Challis (Braunton), Messrs. G. F. Lefroy (representing the widow of deceased) and Mr T. Oerton (jun.), representing the Rev. L. Benison (the driver of the Morris Cowley involved in the accident). A Jury, of which Mr M. Ffoulkes, J.P., was chosen Foreman, consisted of Messrs. T. Jones, F. E. Battershill, E. Thomas, H. S. Hellier, S. J. Ashton, A. E. Collins, A. S. Jones, and R. S. Cockram. - The Coroner, opening the inquiry, said they were there to Inquire into the circumstances concerning the death of WILLIAM JOHN COCKINGS. The deceased was coming home, he believed in a char-a-banc from the direction of Ilfracombe, when by a corner near Heddon Mills, the char-a-banc and a Morris Cowley car came into collision. Deceased, along with most of the people - nearly all of them in the char-a-banc - were thrown out upon the road or hedge. It appeared that WILLIAM JOHN COCKINGS, in falling, received injuries to the back of his skull and also, he believed, to his face, and he was brought to the North Devon Infirmary, and died in the Institution on Friday morning at three o'clock. He (the Coroner) would call as much evidence as possible, but unfortunately the principal witnesses were very much upset and shocked and were ill in bed on account of the terrible experiences they had been through. One of them was lying in the Infirmary very ill indeed; in fact the doctor would tell them he was in a most dangerous condition, and, therefore, it was no good going on with the Inquiry that day, and he proposed, if they thought with him, to adjourn the Inquest until Tuesday week (June 5th), when he thought by that time it was probable the witnesses they wanted would be able to attend, or as many as could possibly do so at all. He would call formal evidence of identification and the evidence of the Doctor of the Infirmary, to tell them what the man died of, and then, with their concurrence, he would adjourn. - MR J. CLARKE, dairyman, of Knowle, Braunton, a brother-in-law of the deceased, identified the body, and said MR COCKINGS was 38 years of age, and was a carpenter, living at Silver-street, Braunton. Prior to the accident he was quite strong and healthy. He was married and had one son, 12 years and three months. - Dr Kenneth Knowles, House Surgeon at the North Devon Infirmary, said the deceased was brought into the Infirmary at 8.45 on the 24th instant. He was in a semi-conscious condition, speaking once or twice, but he (the doctor) could not understand what he said. He died at three a.m. on the morning following admittance. Death was due to compression of the brain following a fracture of the skull and haemorrhage. - The Coroner: Were the injuries such as might be sustained by being thrown out of a char-a-banc into the road? - Yes. - The Coroner: Two or three others were admitted at the same time; what about them? - Two of them are in a very serious condition - Dunn and Incledon - they are in a critical condition. We did have five in here altogether, but the other two are not in a very serious state; he thought they may possibly be able to give evidence on Tuesday week, but he could not say definitely about the two who were critical. - The Foreman: What is the nature of the injuries of the two who are critical? - One of them - Incledon - is suffering from concussion and I can't definitely say what damage has been done; and the other - Dunn - may be suffering from internal injuries, but it is impossible to say definitely. - The Foreman: Would any statement made by any of these men be kept for the Jury at the adjourned Inquiry by the medical practitioner? - The Doctor: Yes, I will keep it. - Mr Lefroy: As far as you know did the deceased man make an intelligible statement to anybody else - to nurses or anybody? - Not that I know of. - Inspector Leach: As soon as either or all of the patients are fit the Police will interview them and take their statements respectively. - The Coroner: Yes, that will be done, and the Inquest now stands adjourned for June 5th, at 2.30 p.m. - Mr Ffoulkes (the Foreman): The Jury request that it should be earlier - at 10.30 - and also that it be held in the Guildhall if it is suitable to you. Also, in their opinion, it will help them if they can view the scene of the accident altogether. - The Coroner: The only trouble is this; if we have a Police case we should have to adjourn until the case is over. I am afraid it would take a long time. However, I am in your hands and agree. - The Foreman: Thank you, sir. - Mr Ffoulkes: The Jury have unanimously requested they should be allowed to go to the scene of the accident to help them in coming to a correct judgment. Must they make their own arrangements or can arrangements be made. - Mr Lefroy objected and said he could not agree. - The Coroner agreed with Mr Lefroy, and said they could not possibly go until they had heard the evidence. Also, they would possibly see the sketch plans and not want to see the actual spot. [Note: There is a photo of the band, including MR WILLIAM JOHN COCKINGS.]

North Devon Journal, Thursday 7 June 1928
BICKINGTON - Bickington Tragedy. Man Dies After Drinking. Inquest Adjourned. - The N. Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, held an Inquiry on Monday, at Bickington Schoolroom, into the circumstances attending the death of MR WALTER SIMPSON WALKER, aged 41, of Elmfield Cottage, Bickington, who died with tragic suddenness on Sunday morning. - MRS ANNA CHRISTINE WALKER, the widow of deceased, in her evidence said her husband followed no occupation. During the War he served in the Rifle Brigade in Belgium, and was blown up while in a trench, which led to his being disabled. She did not know that he sustained injuries to his head, but he suffered from shell-shock and was neurasthenic. He was excitable and suffered from terrible depression at times, when everything was a worry, and at times he was differently affected. When these fits came on he was desirous of taking alcohol to aid him. He had been warned by the doctors not to take alcohol during these fits of depression. Last week he happened to be particularly bright, but on Wednesday morning he went out, but she did not know where he went. He was a little depressed, but not anything out of the way when he came home. On Saturday he looked exceedingly well, but seemed excited and seemed to have had no desire to go out until the afternoon, when he said he thought he was going to Barnstaple. She tried to persuade him not to go, but he left about four o'clock, and Mr Stewart, after also trying to persuade him, went with him. When he returned at eight o'clock, he was sort of determined and rather quiet and in a difficult frame of mind. He was quite quiet. - The Coroner: Was he under the influence of drink? - He must have had some drink. He did not stay in long, but went up to the village, and came home about twenty minutes to ten. - Did he come home by himself? - Yes; Stewart had gone home. Did you have trouble with him? - I did not quite like the look of him. She went and asked Mr Cooke if he would come and persuade him to go to bed. Did he go to bed? - Yes, but I was not in the house at that time. You were out? - Yes, I thought perhaps it would be easier for Mr Cooke to be with him if I was not there. When you came back where was he? - In bed asleep. What time was that? - About eleven, I think. Did the doctor come that night? - No. And did anyone remain with him that night? - Yes, Mr Frank Joslin and Mr Gregory. During the night was there any trouble with him? - No. He was quite quiet all night? - Yes; Mr Joslin made her go to bed and she heard no sound whatever. - The Sleeping Draught. - The next morning what time did you get up? - Mr Joslin called up to my window to say they were leaving and just as I was dressed my husband came in and asked if I had a spare sleeping draught because he felt shaky. Did you get one? - Yes. Did you give it to him? - He went back to bed and then I gave it to him. Did he take it? - Yes; he took it. I waited a bit and it seemed to take effect and asked him if he would have a cup of tea, and he said: "No - presently," and then I asked if I would cook some eggs, which I did and he ate them. And then? - I was hoping the sleeping draught would have worked, but the next thing I heard was that he was coming downstairs, dressed. What did he do? - He went into the gun room, where he kept all his things and pottered about. I did not like the look of him and did not think he looked quite fit and I sent for Mr Joslin to come down. He came, and my husband had gone into the garage, and Mr Joslin went there to see him. Did he get him inside? - Yes, presently them came inside. - "I Have Taken Poison." - How long after they came in were you informed anything? - I don't know the time. I was upstairs arranging the bedding and things, and I heard my husband being sick. I did not think anything. I thought the sleeping draught and food had had this effect. Did deceased come upstairs? - Yes; he called out and I ran downstairs. Mr Joslin was there, and deceased said: "I have taken poison." I said, "Nonsense, what have you taken?" and he said "Arsenic." I ran across to Mrs Fry and sent a message to the nurse to 'phone for the doctor. In this gun-room had he a lot of poisonous matter? - Yes; he kept all his seed sand everything pertaining to the garden there. Had he any weedicide there? - I can't remember seeing it. I know he had weedicide somewhere, but I can't remember seeing the tin. How long after he said this did he collapse? - We did not take it seriously. We got him upstairs and he slid on the floor and then we were not quite sure, and he was gone in no time. Do you know if he had any other poisons in a small bottle except this weed killer? - He had all sorts of slug killers, etc. - Do you know if he had any prussic acid there? - Not that I know of. - You have never seen a bottle? - No, I have never seen it. - Cyanide? - I don't know. - In that room were there some large bottles of beer? - Yes. - Who brought them? They came in on Saturday night. - Six bottles? - I could not say. - Was Stewart supposed to be looking after him? - He was looking after the garden, but persuaded my husband to go home. - Was there anybody looking after him, responsible for his movements? - Not on Saturday because he was better on Saturday morning. - When he came home on Saturday could you see he was under the influence of drink? - Yes, I could. - As soon as this happened a message was sent to the Police and Dr Leavey? - Yes. - Objection To Police. - Did you object to the Policeman coming in? - I did not wish the officer to see my husband until the doctor had been. - It was very wrong, you realise that now? - Witness, who spoke in a faint voice, was understood to reply that allowance should be made for her agitation. - The Police might have been of assistance? - It was too late - it was too late. - Do you know the Police have knowledge to be in charge of everything? - Yes. - It might have been a very serious thing? - Yes. - He might have been able to give them an emetic or first aid? - But it was much too late for anything like that. - They are the paramount authorities in a case like this; they are responsible to me. Have you removed any bottles? - No; not since Abrahams was there. I have scarcely been in the room since. - George Stewart, gardener of Muddlebridge, said he met deceased in the village about 3.30 p.m. on Saturday and went to the house with him. Later, deceased said he was going to Barnstaple to have a drink and MRS WALKER said he should go with him and he went. At the Poltimore Arms, Barnstaple, deceased had three tubes and witness had a pint. They returned by the 6.30 'bus. - On reaching Bickington they went to the Plough Inn, where deceased had two drinks. Witness left about 7.15 taking with him six quart flagons of beer. MRS WALKER asked him to fetch her husband, which he did. Deceased was sober. He did not know deceased had been advised not to take drink. - The Coroner: What was the object of your going with him? - Witness: He insisted on my going with him for company. - Witness, replying to further questions, said he could not persuade deceased to go straight home. - The Coroner: You still kept time with him? - Witness: Yes. - Do you think that was an advisable thing to do? - No; but if I get an order to do anything, I always do it. - You say you did it for obedience? - Yes. - Mr King, licensee of the Plough Inn, said he was called in the saloon bar about 7 on SAturday evening by his wife and there saw MR WALKER, who asked witness to have a drink. Witness had a glass of beer and deceased a tube, which was about three-quarters of a pint. He believed Mrs King supplied deceased with something before that. Deceased stayed until 8 o'clock and until then was most rational and interesting. Mrs King had told witness that deceased came back again shortly afterwards. He had never received any information about supplying deceased with drink. He was surprised deceased came to The Plough. - The Coroner: You did not think he was a likely customer? - Witness: No; I asked him why we had not had the pleasure of seeing him before and he said "Perhaps it is for your sakes and for my sake that I do not come into your house." He talked of the scandal of the village and other things. - Nurse Martin, Fremington District Nurse, said she went to the house at MRS WALKER'S request at 9.50 p.m. on Saturday. Deceased was sitting on the bed. She could not say if he was under the influence of drink, but he was sullen and determined looking. He resented witness's presence there and he eventually went downstairs. He was not normal. Eventually, Mr FR. Joslin came in and stayed the night, and witness went home just after midnight. She was called next morning about 9.30 and after arranging with Mrs Darch to telephone for the doctor went to the house and saw Mr Joslin, who told her what had happened. She sent him for the Police. Deceased was on the bathroom floor dead. - MRS WALKER refused to let the Policeman in, and witness could not persuade her. But if there had been any question about MR WALKER not being dead she would have over-ruled MRS WALKER. - Frank Joslin, of Bickington, said when he was sent for on Sunday morning he found deceased in the garage leaning against the bench and holding his head. He then went into the house and got some cigarettes in the kitchen. Deceased then said, "I am going to have a drink," and went into the gun-room. He took a glass of stuff from the table beside some beer bottles and witness thought it was something intoxicating. Witness did not see him pour anything into it. The colour was of cider, or pale ale or whisky and water. Deceased stood still for a few minutes and vomited into the sink and then knelt on the floor, beating the floor with his hand. Witness went on to describe the scene when he called MRS WALKER, and how MR WALKER subsequently collapsed on the bathroom floor and died. - P.C. Abrahams, of Bickington, gave evidence as to finding a glass in the gun-room with a few drops of liquid in it. In the room witness also found a gallon drum of Cooper's Weedicide, a drum of lead paste and part bottles of carbolic acid, Izal, insecticide, a lotion for external use only, and a part bottle of spirits of salts. The Weedicide had a patent cover, which looked as if it had been recently removed and was placed loosely on the top. There was no distinct smell with the liquid. The drum of weedicide was on the floor and the carbolic acid was on the floor to the left. - Witness added that Dr Leavey came at 11.15 a.m. and found life had been extinct one hour, and in his opinion the cause of death was poisoning. - Fredk. Cooke, of Bickington, also gave evidence. - The Coroner said a post-mortem examination had been made and the contents of the stomach sent to the County Analyst for analysis with the various liquids found by the Constable. The Inquest would be adjourned until next Monday at 2.30 p.m.

BARNSTAPLE - The Braunton Char-A-Banc Disaster. The Adjourned Inquest. Conflicting Evidence As To Speed. Jury's Finding: Char-a-Banc Driver's "Error of Judgment," and Morris Driver "Practically On Wrong Side." - But No Criminal Negligence. - At Barnstaple Guildhall on Tuesday, the Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, resumed the Inquest on MR WILLIAM JOHN COCKINGS, 39, carpenter, of Silver-street, Braunton, who died in North Devon Infirmary on May 25th as the result of injuries sustained in a char-a-banc accident at Heddon Mills the previous evening. Braunton Silver Band, it may be recalled, were returning from an engagement at Woolacombe, when their char-a-banc collided with a motor car, MR COCKINGS and other members of the band sustaining serious injuries and being removed to the Infirmary. The char-a-banc, belonging to Mr T. Bassett, of Braunton, was driven by Andrew Mackie; whilst in charge of the car was Rev. G. L. Benison, Curate, of Ilfracombe, who was accompanied by his parents, Mr and Mrs E. J. Benison, of Paignton. - Mr M. Ffoulkes, J.P., was Foreman of the Tuesday's Jury, the other members comprising Messrs. S. J. Ashton, E. Thomas, A. S. B. Jones, A. E. Collings, R. S. Cockram, H. S. Hellier, and T. Be Jones. Mr T. W. J. Templeman represented the Insurance Co., Mr Bassett and the driver of the char-a-banc; Mr G. F. Lefroy the widow of MR COCKINGS; Mr T. Oerton, junr., the owner of the Morris car; and Mr E. J. Slee, deceased's family and other injured persons. supt. Shutler and Inspector Leach (Devon Constabulary) were also present and the Coroner was assisted by Mr S. A. Copp (Deputy Magistrates' Clerk). - Coroner's Opening Statement. - The Coroner first recalled that evidence of identification had already been taken, whilst the Jury had also had the doctor's evidence as to the cause of death. The Jury had also to consider if anyone was criminally liable in connection with the death of MR COCKINGS. That was a question for them entirely; and it did not matter to them or him (the Coroner) what the civil liability might be. - Architect's Measurements. - Mr Bruce Oliver, architect, of Barnstaple, produced a plan of the main road made as the result of a survey the day after the accident. The average rise of the road was about one in 27; the skid mark of the char-a-banc from the side of the hedge 7 ft. 8 ins.; and the distance from the hedge to the centre of the petrol splash about 10 ft. 3 ins. The width of the road from the stone facing or earth bank to earth bank was 22 ft. 3 ins., or allowing for the over-hanging growth about 20 ft. 10 ½ ins. The camber of the road was slight - 0.4 of a foot. The Morris car was 4 ft. 9 ins. by 11 ft. 6 ins., and the char-a-banc 16 ft. by 6 ft. 8 ins. Mr Oliver also spoke to skid marks which he saw on the road. - Supt. Shutler asked how much of the road witness thought it safe to use. - Mr Oliver thought one could drive perfectly safe along the centre, and at a moderate speed travel tight to the hedge on the railway side. There was no actual deep gutter on either side - only a drop due to the camber of the road. - It would not be safe to travel along the gutter at 12 to 14 miles an hour? - I should have thought it would be, but I am not an expert. - Police-Sergeant's Evidence. - P.S. Challis of Braunton, stated that, arriving at the spot about 8.40 on the evening of the accident he found the char-a-banc on the offside of the road facing Ilfracombe (this having been moved prior to his arrival), whilst the Morris car was on the near side facing Ilfracombe. There was a patch of petrol on the left centre of the road looking towards Braunton, whilst a petrol can knocked off the Morris car was in the centre of the roadway. There were wheel-marks eight feet from the near hedge looking towards Braunton, and indications that wheels had been wedged. There was then a clear space of about 3 ft., and then a continuation for 42 ft. running diagonally across the road to the off-side. There was a large gap on the offside hedge, which he concluded the char-a-banc had made after the collision. There were also wheel-marks 4 ft. 9 ins. from the wheel-marks previously mentioned, on the near side towards the near hedge. These were distinct just before the point of impact and just afterwards, but not so distinct across the road. There were wheel-marks near the petrol patch, commencing 12 ft. from the near hedge looking towards Ilfracombe, running diagonally for a distance of 20 ft. and then a little outward towards the left centre of the road looking towards Ilfracombe for 12 ft. The off rear wing of the car was smashed and the off wheel damaged; whilst the body panelling was smashed 7 ft. 9 ins. from the front of the car. The char-a-banc was completely wrecked in the front; and the off front tyre and off front wing were off. He asked Mr Benison, Mr Mackie and Mr Bassett whether they would like to check his measurements, but neither did so. Mr Bassett watched him doing the measuring. Both Mr Benison and Mr Mackie said they would explain the accident later, as they were not feeling well enough to do so then. Next day Mackie made a statement which he signed by the Ilfracombe Police. - The Coroner did not propose having these statements read, as Mr Benison and Mr Mackie would be called as witnesses. - Mr Oerton thought the statements ought to be before the Court and the Jury; otherwise it would be difficult to check any possible discrepancies. - The Coroner replied that the trouble was this - there might be criminal proceedings. How was he to take something which would not be evidence in criminal proceedings? - Mr Lefroy: Would it not be, with all respect? We cannot possible check the accuracy of any statement here. - The Coroner: I daresay the Police will let you have a copy of the statement. You can check it as we go along. - After further discussion, the Foreman said the unanimous feeling of the Jury was that it would be far better to hear the evidence of the witnesses, before hearing any statements taken by the Police. - The Coroner: That is my view. - P.S. Challis, proceeding, said the width of the road at the point of impact was 22 ft. Where the accident occurred there was a gradual left-hand bend looking towards Braunton, and the char-a-banc had negotiated the worst part before the collision, and then travelled a distance of thirty paces. The driver of a vehicle travelling from Ilfracombe to Braunton would have a clear vision for forty-eight paces, and the camber of the road would favour a vehicle going around the bend the same way. The bend was more easy to negotiate going towards Ilfracombe and there would be a vision of about seventy paces provided a vehicle was on its proper side of the road. The camber of the road did not favour a vehicle going around that bend - it was against it. - In answer to the Coroner, witness expressed the opinion that the motor driver, when he saw the char-a-banc approaching, eased the head of his car towards his inner side, and the char-a-banc then struck it a glancing blow; otherwise the Morris car would have been cut in two. - "No Need Of An Accident. " - Questioned by Mr Templeman, Sergt Challis was further of opinion that the Morris car was in the right centre of the road before the accident, and "if it had been in its proper place there would have been no need of an accident." He also considered that when the wheel of the char-a-banc caught the petrol tank of the car the char-a-banc was well over on its proper side. It would not be safe for the driver of the char-a-banc to run within 18 inches or 2 ft. of the hedge. - Is your opinion borne out by the marks you saw? - Yes. - Replying to Mr Oerton, witness said the char-a-banc was simply pulled around after the accident, and he did not think any considerable number of marks would be made by the touring car. - Mr Oerton suggested that the Sergeant adopted such an attitude at once towards the Rev. G. L. Benison as to cause one or two bystanders to intervene? - No; you are wrong. - Did not Mr Dennis do so? - No. - Nor Mr Dunn? - No. - Did not Mr Dennis say Mr Benison was not responsible for the accident? - No. Mr Dennis was making himself very objectionable towards Mr Bassett. Several other persons made suggestions which I absolutely ignored. - I put it to you that you formed a very sudden and quick view of who was to blame for the accident? - No; it would be unfair to say that. - Mr Oerton: "Well, I am sorry; but I have to suggest it." Further referring to the dotted lines relating to the accident, shown in Mr Oliver's plan, he said that according to the witness this was all wrong. - P.S. Challis disagreed. - I put it to you that mark never at any time came within the petrol patch at all? - It did. - For the char-a-banc to go the distance shown and to hit the wall it must have been going at a very big speed? - Yes, and according to the driver he lost control. He evidently had o control after the impact. - Mr Oerton remarked that he had plenty of evidence that the Morris Cowley was travelling at a reasonable speed. - To P.S. Challis: Your opinion is that the car was on the wrong side of the road/ - Yes. - Have you any reason? - Only the natural tendency some people have to come around right-hand bends on the wrong side of the road. - You have heard nothing to explain what would make him go on that side? - No. - Supt. Shutler asked witness if the whole of the 22 ft. was safe to travel over? - Take out about 18 inches on each side, and it would be safe. - The Coroner thought the Jury would agree that P.S. Challis had given his evidence very well and very fairly. - Injured Bandsmen's Evidence. - George Incledon, of Field Lane, Braunton, was the first of the injured bandsmen to give evidence. He could not remember anything in connection with the collision; he woke up to find himself in the North Devon Infirmary. He recollected the band leaving Woolacombe and the char-a-banc coming on the main road at Mullacott Cross; they were travelling at a reasonable pace, and on their correct side all the time. - Fredk. Thorne, builder, of Heanton-street, remembered seeing the approaching motor-car. Immediately afterwards he felt the impact, but recollected nothing afterwards. He thought they were travelling on their correct side. In his opinion the speed was plenty fast enough, but he could not say it was a dangerous speed. He saw the approaching car, but not sufficiently to be able to say whether it was on the right or the wrong side. Witness sustained injuries to his hands and head. - By Mr Templeman: Did not hear anyone complain of the char-a-banc drive proceeding too fast, or doing anything wrong. He seemed to have proper control of the char-a-banc all the way. - Although you cannot tell us the position of the car yet from what you saw you were afraid there was going to be an accident? - Yes. - Mr Oerton put it to witness that the char-a-banc was travelling around the corner at a dangerous speed? - Mr Thorne repeated the opinion he had previously expressed. - The Foreman: When you joined the char-a-banc at Woolacombe was there any question as to the competency of the driver - either what he had been doing during the day, or any other suggestion? - I heard nothing whatever. - Ronald Kerswill, carpenter, of Apsley-terrace, Braunton, also in the char-a-banc, said before the impact their car was approaching the bend at what he thought was a fast speed. He saw the other car coming and it appeared to be on its left-hand side of the road with its off-wheels touching the crown of the road. He saw it just long enough to recognise it was a Morris car. He thought their driver saw it coming and appeared to try and pull the char-a-banc a little more to the left, but was too late. He felt the bump and was thrown into the gutter, receiving bruises on the left arm and thigh. He did not see MR COCKINGS thrown out, but saw him when he had been bandaged. The char-a-banc was going at a fast speed prior to the collision, but he could not estimate the speed. He heard no-one speak to the driver, and he personally did not think it was necessary. - Cross-examined by Mr Templeman, he said the driver had proper control. In his own estimation the char-a-banc was being driven too fast for a thing of its size. He thought it was about 4 ½ miles from Morte-Hoe. He knew they left at the same time as the train, at two minutes to eight p.m., but did not know the time of the accident. At the corner he felt the car sort of slow up, not speed up. - Mr Templeman: "Actually he slowed up from his speed to take the bend?" - Yes. - The Coroner: "Are you sure about that?" - Quite sure. - By Mr Oerton: Was the char-a-banc travelling at too big a speed? - It appeared to me to be too fast. - Further questioned by Mr Oerton, witness said the Morris car gave him the impression of being on its proper half of the road. In his opinion the char-a-banc could have kept a little closer to the left, but they were in their own half. The Morris kept just as it was coming. He never saw the train after leaving Morte-Hoe. When they hit the Morris he noticed just enough to know they had hit something. It did not strike him that it was going to have serious result. - Deceased's Unconcern. - William Henry Bray, shipwright of North-street, Braunton, said he was thrown into the gutter. He thought the char-a-banc was going a little fast to take the corner. He only saw the Morris car for a fraction of a minute - it was only a glimpse. He could not say whether their car was going round the corner all right. He did not feel the brakes put on. He had said something to MR COCKINGS about their car being fast and deceased had said that it could not go too fast for him. - The Coroner: What did you say to him? - I just said it was going along pretty smart and he said it would not go too fast for him. As far as he knew there were no complaints to the driver about going too fast. - Cross-examined by Mr Oerton, witness said he considered that Mackie was a pretty good driver. He did, however, consider he was going too fast, and did not remember any lessening of speed before the impact with the Morris Cowley. - "Uncomfortably Fast. " - Ernest J. Brooks, of Caen-street, Braunton, said he sat next to the driver. He saw the small car approach, but could not say how far away and it seemed on its right side. After the impact the next thing he remembered was picking himself out of the gutter. He picked up Mr Incledon and MR COCKINGS, the latter having fallen about five feet away from him in the gutter, with the drum of the band between them and (COCKINGS) was lying upon his elbow, with his back upon the hedge. He did not move at all. They lifted him in the gutter and he said he could not stand up and asked him (witness) what his injuries were and what had happened. - The Coroner: Could you say at what pace you were going? - I should say it was uncomfortably fast. - You have not had much experience, have you? - I have had some and I consider it was an uncomfortably fast pace. The char-a-banc was on the left-hand side of the road, but he could not say how far from the hedge. He could not say whether they were to the left or right-hand side of their half of the road; he was watching the Morris approach and waiting for the impact, thinking they could not clear each other and consequently did not take any notice. Questioned as to the brakes being put on, witness did not see or feel anything. - The Coroner: Were you looking? - No; I was watching to see if we could clear the car. - Did you make any representations to the driver about how fast he was going? - I thought the man should know his own business bests. - He seemed to be a good driver? - He handled the car well. In his (witness's) hearing no-one complained to the driver. - Mr Templeman: This driver was driving in a proper manner? - Yes, he handled the car well. - Further questioned by Mr Templeman, witness said he would not like to say whose fault it was. He did not suggest the driver was going at a dangerous pace and suggested nothing more than he had said. He was used to a small car. - Questioned by Mr Oerton, witness said he did not say there was any blame. He did not speak to the driver because he supposed he knew his job. - You were ex-Service men, and did not want to give the impression that you were frightened out of your skins? - That's right. - Don't you think that having regard to the char-a-banc being somewhat top heavy the driver was taking the bend too fast to hold it into the hedge and that sooner or later it was bound to sway and lurch out a bit? - It is quite likely it might happen. - The Foreman: Could you judge the pace of the Morris Cowley coming towards you? - It seemed to be coming at a very medium pace, comfortably. Had it been coming fast, probably we should have avoided it. - Mr Lefroy: When you finished helping MR COCKINGS, did you turn round and look at the cars? - I can't say; I know the big car was pulled round by another car. It was done while we were attending to the others. - Where did that car come from? - I could not say; although it must have come from Ilfracombe, obviously. Where was the Morris when you saw it? - In beside the hedge. He did not attend to MR COCKINGS longer than a quarter of an hour. The char-a-banc was moved, almost immediately after the accident. - In answer to Mr Templeman, witness said that after the rope was hitched the front of the car was going away. - "Not Too Fast." - William Kift, tailor, of Heanton-street, Braunton, another occupant of the char-a-banc, said in his opinion Mackie was a good driver. He was driving at a fairly good speed and witness did not consider he went too fast; he (witness) was quite comfortable in his seat. He did not remember hearing the brakes going on, nor, indeed, remembered approaching the corner at all. - Mr Templeman: Is there anything you can complain of in the way the car was driven? - Not a bit; I was quite comfortable in my seat and was looking at nothing. - By Mr Oerton: He did not remember anything very much about what happened. They had no reason for being back in Braunton by any particular time. - The Foreman, having elicited that there were three others sitting in the same seat, asked witness: So you would be comfortable if you were going at fifty miles an hour? - That depends on how you feel. - Arthur P. Dennis, butcher, of The Square, Braunton (another bandsman), said he sat in the front seat of the char-a-banc. He only saw the little car coming for about a second; the vehicles struck each other so quickly. It appeared to be on its proper side. When the char-a-banc started to take the corner it was on its correct side, but when they came round the corner he considered they bore towards the centre of the road. He had not much experience of char-a-banc trips, but he should say they were going at a good speed. He should think it was really too fast to take the corner. - In answer to Mr Templeman, Mr Dennis said he did not know whether the small car might have given the char-a-banc a foot or eighteen inches more of the road. - Mr Templeman: Did you see the petrol splash in the road afterwards? - Yes. - Mr Templeman suggested that the position of the petrol splash indicated that the car was running a little more to the char-a-banc's side of the road than the other. - Questioned by Mr Oerton, witness said he was certain in his own mind that the Morris car was on its correct side. He re-affirmed his opinion as to speed. - Mr Oerton: As a motorist, it was far too great a speed to attempt to negotiate ..... [Mr Templeman: Don't say that.]. - Mr Dennis: I can't say that; I placed faith in the driver. Regarding the journey back from Woolacombe generally, he considered they travelled too fast in places, but safely at other times. The glancing blow at the time of the collision did not appear to affect the char-a-banc very much. The speed of the char-a-banc continued as great around the corner as it had been on their approach to it. - The Coroner: Why did you fancy he was a good driver or not? - Good driver as regards the gears and all that. - In answer to the Foreman, witness said he could not give them any reason why the driver should turn suddenly to the right. - At this stage Mr Brooks was recalled and asked the same question by the Foreman, volunteering a reply that he had no idea, unless when he struck the car he knocked his wheel. That was, of course, surmise. - Motor Cyclist "Overtaken." - Charles Hewitt, 98 Pilton-street, Barnstaple, deposed to driving a 3 ½ B.S.A. motor-cycle combination from Ilfracombe to Barnstaple. The char-a-banc passed him on the road, when his own speedometer registered between 20 and 25 m.p.h. The char-a-banc must have been going at least 30 m.p.h, and he considered it a dangerous pace, absolutely too fast a speed at which to pass him. When he came upon the scene of the accident, the Morris was about 10 or 20 feet from the bigger car, close to the hedge, the char-a-banc being right across the road on the Braunton side, and apparently it had bounced about 3 ft. off the hedge. - Questioned by Mr Templeman, witness said he came on the scene approximately five minutes after the char-a-banc had passed him. - Mr Templeman: That was about an average of 12 miles per hour? - Witness reiterated that the char-a-banc passed him at about 30 m.p.h. - Mr Templeman: Were you correct in saying about five minutes afterwards? If it was a mile your average speed was 12 m.p.h. It is nothing extraordinary to find something wants to pass you - cycles may want to at this pace. - In reply to Mr Oerton, witness said the char-a-banc passed him easily and left him absolutely behind. - Supt. Shutler: Did you come to the Police to complain of this matter? - No, sir. - "Like An Express." - George Townsend Benison, father of the driver of the Morris Cowley and an occupant of the car, said the Morris was on the left-hand side of the road and he was sitting at the back of the driver on the right of the seat. The Morris was going at about 20 to 22 m.p.h. He saw the heads of the char-a-banc passengers about 100 yards away; the char-a-banc was coming at a terrific speed, and he could not understand why the char-a-banc did not give them more space in the road. The char-a-banc passed them like an express train, he should think about 40 miles per hour. The Morris was well on it s right side, about two feet from the hedge and the impact knocked the Morris into the hedge. - Mr Templeman: You tell us that your son was driving this car at not more than 20 to 22 miles an hour within 2 ft. from its proper side, and coming towards the bend you saw the other car coming along like an express train for over a hundred yards. I suggest to you that you cannot see a hundred yards ahead? - I saw them coming - the heads of the passengers - a long distance off before they came around the bend. - You know the width of this road is 22 ft., and you are quite sure you were within 2 ft. of your proper side. The width of your vehicle is 4 ft. 9 ins., and the width of the char-a-banc is 6 ft., and you were so close you touched one another? - There was a space when he came around. He did not hit us in the front, he hit us behind. - 13 ft. 5 ins. is the width of the road taken up. Do you wish the Court to believe there was nearly 10 ft. of the road in which he could have gone. A number of witnesses have told us the char-a-banc was close to its proper side. I suggest if the char-a-banc, weighing 3 tons, had caught you, it would have pushed you right into the hedge? - It did push us right into the hedge. - Whey is the splash of petrol 10 ft. 3 ins. from the left-hand side of the hedge? - Your view of the accident is entirely wrong, I suggest? - I don't think it is. - Mr Oerton: You have not the slightest notion where the petrol can may ultimately end up? - No. - Further questioned, he said when he saw the car he was not a bit nervous. He thought the char-a-banc would get past them. The blow to the Morris was not particularly violent and he thought the char-a-banc would have gone on. - Mrs Winifred Louisa Benison, wife of the last witness, and also a passenger, said they were going very slowly because she was very nervous and were on their proper side of the road. She also saw the heads of the passengers about 50 yards off. The char-a-banc came on its own side, but swerved out and she could see, unless it turned inwards, suddenly it would be upon them. She also thought the char-a-banc would have gone on its ay as it only hit them a glancing blow. [Another two columns of witness statements] "Accidental Death" - The Jury having consulted for about half an hour, the Foreman said they were unanimously of the opinion that the driver of the private car was practically on his wrong side of the road by at least a foot at the time of the impact. In their opinion the driver of the char-a-banc was going too fast around the bend, but this, they felt, was more an error of judgment than criminal intent. In their opinion, the driver lost control after the impact, thus causing the char-a-banc to collide with the wall. - The Coroner: Then your verdict will be one of "Accidental Death." - The Foreman added that the Jury had also asked him to express their very great regret at the accident and at the serious loss and injury to the families concerned. They also thanked the Police for their kind and unbiased help and also the advocates for their assistance. - The Coroner finally thanked the Jury for their attendance and for the very great attention they had paid to their duties. - Commencing at 10.30 a.m., the Inquiry, with two brief intervals, lasted until 3.45 p.m.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 14 June 1928
BARNSTAPLE - Sad Death Of MR H. A. SCOTT, At Barnstaple. The Inquest. - With pained surprise and regret a large circle of friends learnt of the death on Tuesday, of MR HENRY A. SCOTT, of 12 Rolle Quay, Barnstaple, one of the best-known haulage contractors in North Devon. Son of the late MR JOHN SCOTT, of Bishopstawton, the deceased, who was 60 years of age, commenced business at Barnstaple in 1901, which, until his death he had carried on in conjunction with his son, MR C. J. SCOTT. Pre-deceased by his wife 19 years ago, MR SCOTT also leaves a daughter to mourn her loss. - As MR SCOTT'S death followed an accident, an Inquest was held by the Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, yesterday. - CECIL J. SCOTT, son, stated that on May 29th his father informed him that whilst loading the lorry at the Southern Railway Station that morning he had had a nasty accident, hitching his heel in the tail of the lorry and falling out over the side. He added that he caught hold of the chain on the side of the lorry and in this way eased the fall. The workman, James Harris, was with him at the time. His father complained of terrible pain in his chest and witness telephoned for Dr Manning, who came the same evening. Declining to stay in bed, or to take food, his father contracted a chill in the week-end, expiring on Tuesday morning at 8.30. - James Harris, labourer, of Corser-street, deposed that at the Railway Station he was handing bags from a truck to MR SCOTT, when deceased's foot caught in a piece of iron in the waggon. MR SCOTT first fell in the waggon and on rising staggered and over-balanced, falling out over the side to the ground on his back. He lay on the spot apparently unconscious for about five minutes, but later managed to drive the waggon back. Although suffering great pain in his lungs and back, MR SCOTT later proceeded to Huish, Marwood, and helped to unload the waggon and afterwards drove home. - Dr F. B. Manning stated that MR SCOTT informed him that he had a bag come quickly on him, and losing his footing he went out over the side of the lorry, holding on to the chain, but wrenching himself. Witness could only find a slight bruise on the thigh and shoulder, but told deceased to stay in bed; and expected him to get well quickly. He seemed to go on comfortably for the first week; but on Saturday, with a very cold wind prevailing, he caught a chill. Not satisfied with his condition, witness called in Dr Harper, everything possible being done for deceased. MR SCOTT had been difficult to manage, declining to stay in bed or to take food. Death was due to natural causes - congestion of the lungs, chill, and syncope. - The Coroner returned a verdict accordingly. The funeral will take place on Saturday, the first part of the service being in the Rackfield Mission Hall, at 2.30.

BIDEFORD - Appledore Woman's Fatal Fall. Inquest At Bideford. - The unusual circumstances surrounding the death of MISS MARY JANE CROSS, of 26 Market-street, Appledore, on Saturday, following a fall on December 17th last, were Enquired into at the Bideford and District Hospital on Monday evening by the North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown. - MR JAMES CROSS of 26 Market-street, Appledore, brother of the deceased, said his sister, who was 57 years of age, and acted as his housekeeper, slipped on a mat in the passage of his house when carrying a jug of milk on the evening of December 17th. As a result she broke her thigh and dislocated her shoulder, and was removed the same evening by motor ambulance to Bideford Hospital where she remained up to the time of her death on Saturday. Although the milk was spilt, the jug she was carrying was not broken in her fall. - Dr W. A. Valentine, Appledore, said he happened to be outside the door of the house when the accident occurred, and found deceased sitting in a chair. She was at once removed to the Hospital and within half-an-hour was in bed with a splint on. The dislocated shoulder was soon put right and had nothing to do with her death, but the broken thigh never made an attempt at setting. It was set a second time to make certain, after being X-rayed. He had attended her ever since she was in Hospital. Her health began to break down very soon after the accident. Within a week or so she got jaundice. That cleared up and at the end of three months the limb, showing no sign of union, it was found nothing would happen unless something was done and the bones were wired together on March 17th. Everything went on all right for a few days and then the thigh broke down a second time and complications set in, as a result of which she died on the previous Saturday. - The Coroner: That is very unusual isn't it? - It is very unusual. It was very disappointing in that case because the actual operation of joining the bone was perfect and yet it would not hold and the wound became septic. - The Coroner: Could you have stopped that in any way? - The usual steps were taken to stop it, but unsuccessfully and deceased became weaker and weaker. The cause of death was fracture of the femur, followed by non-union and sepsis. - In reply to further questions, Dr Valentine said there were similar cases where people of eighty had got better from a like complaint, but a lot of people who were in a low state of health and were left at home very often died from such injuries. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

BICKINGTON - Bickington Man's Terrible Death. Coroner On Weed Killer Peril. - At Bickington, near Barnstaple, on Monday afternoon, the County Coroner for North Devon, Mr G. W. F. Brown, resumed the Inquest on WALTER SIMPSON WALKER, aged 41, of Elmfield Cottage Bickington, which had stood adjourned for a week for an analysis to be made by Mr Thomas Tickle, county analyst, of the stomach and of a gallon can of "Weedicide," about three-quarters full, found on the premises where deceased lived. The deceased, who served in the Rifle Brigade in Belgium during the War, and was an Army pensioner, followed no occupation. He suffered from shell shock and was neurasthenic, as the result of his War experiences, having been blown up while in a trench. The widow, at the previous sitting, stated that deceased was excitable and suffered from terrible depression and when these fits came on, was desirous of taking alcohol to aid him. But he had been warned by the doctors not to take alcohol during these fits. Other evidence was that he visited licensed houses in Barnstaple and Bickington on Saturday night (2nd inst.) and that when he reached home, his wife "did not quite like the look of him," and a neighbour (Mr Joslin) stayed with him all night. On coming down in the morning, he said he was going to have a drink, picked up and drank from a glass containing liquid the colour of cider from the table of the gun-room and died almost immediately. - A Police Officer spoke to finding in deceased's gun-room a glass with a few drops of liquid in it, and there was also found a gallon drum of "Weedicide." - Enough To Kill 200 People. - The analyst, in his report, stated that he found arsenic (arsenious oxide) in large quantities, together with caustic soda, in all the organs. The weedicide consisted of a solution of arsenic and caustic soda. The proportion of arsenic in the weedicide was 36.5 per cent., or 5 ¾ lb. per gallon. He found no less than 328 grains of arsenious oxide in the portion of stomach, intestines etc., submitted to him for analysis. - "A very remarkable case (proceeded the report), the deceased must have drunk about a teacup full of the weed-killer, containing enough poison to kill about 200 people, in the most concentrated form to which it could be reduced and in the most active state possible. The man's mummy will positively never decay; it is so thoroughly permeated with the most effective of embalming agents." - Dr J. C. Dixey of Barnstaple, said it was very unusual for arsenical poisoning to cause death in twenty minutes. The usual time was eight to twelve hours, but the fact that the arsenic was dissolved in caustic soda, he thought, accounted for the suddenness of death. Actual cause of death was suffocation from taking a corrosive poison. Caustic soda, and undoubtedly the arsenic deceased had consumed, would otherwise have caused death very shortly afterwards. - The Coroner intimated that that was all the evidence he required. On the former occasion they had the evidence of Mr F. Joslin that deceased was seen on Sunday morning to take up a glass containing weedicide and drink it off. What puzzled most people was the quickness with which this acted, but that was now cleared up by the analyst's report that the weedicide contained caustic soda, and this rendered the whole thing most active. The enormous dose which deceased took, commented Mr Brown, acted as a shock to his system and caused suffocation as described. He returned a verdict of "Death from Poison by taking Weedicide while of Unsound Mind." - "It is an extraordinary thing that these violent poisons are able to be purchased and kept in people's houses," commented the Coroner. "Anyone appears to be able to get them. And this liquid, when poured out, certainly resembles cider or beer, and it might be that anyone seeing it in a glass would rink it. It seems an extraordinary thing that these poisons can be purchased so freely nowadays."

North Devon Journal, Thursday 28 June 1928
BRAUNTON - The Appledore Boating Tragedy. MR GILBERT'S Body Recovered. - Discovered on Saunton sands about one mile from the Lighthouse on Thursday evening was the body of MR HENRY GORDON GILBERT, commercial traveller, of Brighton, who, with Mr John Vaggers, a young Appledore boatman, went for a sail together the previous Sunday morning off Appledore, both failing to return. The discovery was made by Mr James, a rabbit trapper, the body being conveyed by the Police and others to the Mortuary at Braunton to await an Inquest. The boat was found upside down on the sands near Airy Point during the week, but despite an unremitting search by a host of helpers, there was no trace of Mr Vaggers, whose cap was, however, found on Wednesday night on a rock off the cricket ground at Instow. - The Inquest: "Accidentally Drowned." - The County Coroner for North Devon, Mr G. W. F. Brown, conducted the Inquest on Friday afternoon. - Mr W. J. Wiley, proprietor of the Bath Hotel, Westward Ho, where deceased was staying, stated that on Sunday morning MR GILBERT told him after breakfast that he had made arrangements to go yachting at Appledore and expected to be away a couple of hours, intending to be back to lunch. As the day wore on and he had not returned deceased's relatives became anxious. MR HABDEN, deceased's father-in-law, spoke to witness about the matter in the evening and Mr Wiley suggested that delay might be due to the boat sticking on the mud. Allowing six hours for the tide, this would bring him in about seven o'clock. Witness rang up the Appledore Customs officer about 7.30 p.m. and suggested that the lifeboat should be sent out to make a search. - William Bailey, an Appledore boatman, said he left home between 9 and 9.30 a.m. on Sunday and went fishing in the Pool. Vagger's boat passed him going down towards the Bar. Witness followed in the same direction about an hour later, and at a point known as the Pulleys he saw what appeared to be the sail of the other boat some distance away, well out in the vicinity of the Bar. The tide was still ebbing and it would be low water at Barnstaple about noon. The water was neither rough nor smooth, but between the two. The wind was nor'-west, but there was no pressure of wind. - The Coroner: Do you think it was safe for a small boat on the Bar? - Witness: Well, you see you go down and sail around. The Bar is a funny place at the best of times. - Is it always more so at low water? - Yes; there is always more surf at low water. Witness added that he left the spot just after noon, and saw no more of the deceased's boat. - Nathaniel Cox, of Appledore, one of the search party which went out in a gig from Appledore about eight o'clock in the evening, said on reaching Airy Point, on the North tail of the Bar, they saw on the sands the boat, bottom up and the mast out alongside with the sail. The anchor and the rudder were missing and only one oar was found in the boat, which had suffered no damage and did not leak. Asked by the Coroner if he could give any idea of what might have happened, witness said the boat might have gone over through the jibbing of the sail. - The Coroner suggested that the boat might have been caught broadside on. - Witness: Yes, and shipped a sea. - The Coroner: It is difficult to say what really happened. - Witness agreed with this view. He added that there was a hook for fishing aboard. Vaggers was accustomed to being out there and could handle a boat as well as anyone. Something out of the common and very sudden must have happened. The sail of the boat was reefed, but the sail points were not tight. The sail halyards kept the sail and the mast to the boat. - Charles James, a Saunton rabbit trapper, spoke to finding the body, fully clothed and lying face downwards on the sand, about two miles above Saunton. - Dr A. T. Traill (Braunton) said there were no external marks on the body and, in his opinion, death was due to drowning. - P.C. Upward (Braunton) said he found on the body £10 in Treasury notes, deceased's motor driving license, cheque-book, dog license, 8s. 11 ½d. in silver and coppers, silver cigarette case, bunch of keys, handkerchief and a silver watch, which had stopped at 12.5. - The Coroner, in recording a verdict of "Accidental Drowning," said it was a particularly sad case. "How the accident occurred I am afraid we shall never know," as both the people who were in the boat were, unfortunately, drowned. We can only surmise. It might have been that they were doing something to the sail and the boat went over, or she might have gone broadside on while they were baiting a hook for fishing and then shipped a wave. But there is no evidence to show how the accident occurred." - The sympathy of all people would go out to the families in their trouble, but it must be some satisfaction to them, observed Mr Brown - in thanking the Police, the Vicar and all at Appledore and elsewhere who had helped - to know that as soon as suspicion was aroused that there had been an accident everything possible was done. - The Rev. Hugh Muller (Vicar of Appledore), on behalf of the relatives, thanked the Coroner for his sympathetic consideration in allowing the relatives to return to London; Mr and Mrs Wiley , of Westward Ho, for all they had done to help; those who had helped in the search and otherwise, including the Coastguards at Croyde and Westward Ho, Police officers at Barnstaple, Braunton, Westward Ho, Northam, Appledore and Bideford (especially P.C. Hutchings), the principal officer of the lighthouse, lifeboat authorities and crew, and those who manned the gig and launch, Capt. W. Screech, Messrs. N. Cox, R., W., and T. Curtis, M. Hocking and S. Powe, and Mr Albert Vaggers, brother to the deceased boatman. Messrs. T. Fishwick and J. and J. Lamey. As to what little he had been able to do, he (the Vicar) regarded it as a duty and a privilege. Referring to the wonderful sympathy of the Appledore people, he said this had influenced the decision of the relatives to arrange for the funeral to be at Appledore. - P.S. Challis suitably acknowledged the thanks on behalf of the Police.

BRAUNTON - The body of ARTHUR JOHN VAGGERS, the Appledore boatman, was found by a visitor, Mr Donald Robertson, floating face downwards at Saunton and was conveyed under the direction of P.C. J. Upward to the Mortuary at Braunton. At the Inquest conducted by Mr G. W. F. Brown, at Braunton, last evening, a verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 5 July 1928
BARNSTAPLE - Serious North Devon Motor Smash. High Bickington Man Killed Near Barnstaple. - A distressing motor-cycle smash occurred on the Bishopstawton-Barnstaple main road late on Saturday night, resulting in the death of MR WILLIAM CLATWORTHY, 23 years, of High Bickington, and injury to others. Deceased, a son of MR and MRS J. CLATWORTHY, of Lower Cottage, High Bickington, was riding a motor-cycle from Bishopstawton to Barnstaple about 10.15 p.m. with his fiancée, Miss Maude Hutchings of Herner, Bishopstawton, as pillion passenger. At the slight left-hand bend between a row of new cottages and the top of Chestwood-hill a collision occurred with his motor-cycle and another ridden by Mr John Bright of 13 Summerland-street, Barnstaple, with Mr Ernest Charles McLeod of 59 Vicarage-street, Barnstaple, on the pillion seat. Riders and passengers were thrown. - Mr William Slee, of Bishopstawton, riding another motor-cycle, left Barnstaple with Mr Bright and his companion, but at the time of the accident was some distance in the rear. He was the first on the spot and rendered assistance to the injured, and by telephone from a nearby house summoned medical aid from Barnstaple. - It was immediately evident that MR CLATWORTHY'S injuries were very serious and he, with Messrs. Bright and McLeod and Miss Hutchings were conveyed to the North Devon Infirmary at Barnstaple, where MR CLATWORTHY died about five hours after admission from a fracture of the skull. - Mr Bright, a young motor mechanic employed at Barnstaple, and stated to be a native of Exmouth, was found to be suffering from shock, abrasions to the face and right leg, a fractured arm, and injury to his chest; and Mr McLeod was also suffering from shock, a cut on the lower lip and abrasions to the temple. They were detained. - Miss Hutchings was fetched by her employer (Mr May) and afterwards taken to Ashleigh House. She was suffering from shock and bruises, but it was not considered necessary to detain her. - Mr McLeod has been employed as an apprentice-salesman at Messrs. Symons and Son's, Boutport-street, Barnstaple, and Mr Bright is a motor-mechanic employed by Mr A. S. Jones, of High-street, Barnstaple. Both the machines were badly damaged. - The Inquest: An Adjournment. - The Inquest on WILLIAM ALFRED CLATWORTHY, aged 23, of High Bickington, was opened by the Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, in the North Devon Infirmary on Tuesday afternoon. - Mr C. H. Lake was chosen Foreman of the Jury and Messrs. H. C. Blackmore, W. J. Parkhouse, H. Tilzey, E. G. Thorne, J. W. Jarman, J. Turner, R. James, R. Bray, and R. Hannam were the Jurymen. - Mr G. F. Lefroy, solicitor represented Mr J. Bright, the driver of the other motor-bicycle concerned in the collision. - The Coroner said they were met to Inquire into a very sad occurrence, the death of a young man of 23 years, who was killed in an accident on the other side of Chestwood Hill, on the Bishopstawton Road on Saturday, June 30th. He proposed to call formal evidence and then to adjourn the Inquest, as some of the witnesses were not in a fit state to give evidence that day, having been badly injured in the accident. - MR JOHN CLATWORTHY, of Lower Cottage, High Bickington, identified the body as that of his son, WILLIAM ALFRED CLATWORTHY, aged 23 years. When witness last saw him, about 4.30 p.m. on Saturday afternoon, he was in good health. Deceased said he was going in to Barnstaple on his motor-cycle, a 2 ¾ h.p. B.S.A. - The Coroner: Would you call that a heavy machine? - The Foreman of the Jury, replying for witness, said it would be described as a medium weight. - Dr Donald C. M. Eccles, of Barnstaple, said he was called to the scene of the accident on Saturday evening, about 10.30 p.m., proceeding there by motor-car. He found the accident had taken place about 50 yards beyond the crest of Chestwood Hill, slightly round the bend of the road towards Bishopstawton. Deceased had been lifted in to the right-hand side of the road by a helper. Witness found he was unconscious and was bleeding from the ears and the inside of the mouth. He could not see any further injuries from a superficial examination, but he diagnosed the case as a fracture of the skull, involving the mouth. Seeing that his condition was critical, witness immediately sent for the ambulance and accompanied him to the North Devon Infirmary. There were two other men involved in the accident (Mr John Bright and Mr Ernest C. McLeod) and a young lady (Miss Maud Hutchings). One of the men he found lying in the road on the right-hand side, and the other was sitting in the hedge. Both were slightly concussed and badly shaken, but he could not detect any serious injuries. Both were conscious, but one of them seemed to be wandering a little. A man passing in a char-a-banc stopped and conveyed them to the Hospital, and he (witness) followed in his car. Before leaving, however, he saw the young lady, who had been taken to a cottage near by. She had had several teeth knocked out and her forehead was bruised, and she was suffering from considerable shock. She was conveyed to the Infirmary in a private car, but later in the evening the House Surgeon said she was fit to leave the Hospital. - The Coroner: Do you wish to make any statement as to how the accident occurred? - Witness: No, none at all. - Dr Rene Pierre, the House Surgeon at the North Devon Infirmary, said the victims of the accident had been admitted to that Institution on the evening of the accident, as had been stated by the previous witness. Deceased did not recover consciousness, but passed away about 4.30 the following morning (Sunday). Death was caused by respiratory failure due to a fracture of the skull and injuries to the brain. He sent a message for Dr Shaw on the Saturday night, but it was a hopeless case, and nothing could be done. Bright and McLeod were still in the Hospital under treatment. He did not think it would be advisable to call either of them to give evidence that day, stated witness, in reply to the Coroner, but he thought they would be sufficiently recovered by Thursday week. - The Coroner then announced that the Inquest would be resumed on Thursday week in the Guildhall, at two o'clock. - In conclusion, he cautioned the Jurymen that was a serious case, and might have serious results, they should, therefore, be careful not to discuss the case with the outside public for fear of being prejudiced, but should wait until they had heard all the evidence that would be brought forward by the witnesses, and then give a fair unbiased verdict accordingly.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 19 July 1928
ILFRACOMBE - Suicide At Ilfracombe. Parents' Tragic Discovery. The Inquest. - ALBERT VICTOR HARDING, aged 26 years, son of MR and MRS A. F. HARDING, grocer, of 75 High-street, Ilfracombe, was found at his house with his head in the gas oven, on Sunday evening, life being quite extinct. - The tragic discovery was made by the lad's parents on Sunday evening, about 10.40 p.m., after having returned from a motoring tour. MR HARDING, on entering the house, smelt a strong force of gas and exclaimed to his brother-in-law, "My God, there is something wrong here." Upon going into the kitchen, MR HARDING discovered his son on the floor with his head in the gas oven. The Police were notified, together with Dr Lewers and were promptly in attendance. - Sympathy is expressed with the parents in their sad loss. Their only son had been ill with rheumatism for some time, but had never grieved about his illness. He was of a quiet disposition, was fond of motor touring and was held in the highest esteem by all who knew him. - Mr G. W. F. Brown, North Devon Coroner, conducted the Inquest at 75 High-street, on Monday. - The first witness was Dr Lewers, who said that he was called to the house at 11 o'clock, and found the deceased lying on the floor in the kitchen, and had evidently been dead for some hours. Deceased was very cold and his appearance was pale. There were no marks of external violence. Undoubtedly, the cause of death was from gas poisoning. He had attended him for eight months for rheumatic condition of the knee. He understood that deceased had been to Exeter for further treatment, and had also been attended by Dr A. S. Osborne. - MR A. F. HARDING, father of the deceased, said that he had identified the body as that of his son, VICTOR. He would have been 27 years of age on his next birthday. On the day of the tragedy, witness, with his wife and relatives, went away for a motor-car ride to Heddon Mills. He wanted his son to go with him, but his son thought it was too far, and preferred going around the front. He left at 2.20 p.m., and his son seemed to be alright when he left. Witness returned about 10.40 p.m., and on entering the house smelt a strong force of gas. He exclaimed to his brother-in-law, "My God, there is something wrong her." He proceeded to the back kitchen and saw the lad lying on his back, with his head right in the gas stove. The gas was turned on full. He turned it off and opened all the doors. He found his son quite dead and stiff. Recently, Dr Osborne had attended his son, but witness did not think his son grieved about it. His complaint was rheumatism in the knees, but very slight. He had left nothing behind, and had never threatened to take his life before. His son had no worries of any kind. - P.-Sergt. Snell said that deceased's room had been searched, but no message of any description had been left by him. - The Coroner said that it was extraordinary that a lad of this age should do such a rash act. He returned a verdict of "Suicide," but there was no evidence to show the state of deceased's mind at the time. Sympathy was expressed with the relatives.

BARNSTAPLE - The Barnstaple-Bishopstawton Road Fatality. Inquest Story Of "Frightfully Tragic Occurrence." Jury's Finding. - The Inquest on WILLIAM ALFRED CLATWORTHY, who died following injuries in a motor-cycle collision on the Barnstaple-Bishopstawton road, which was opened on July 3rd, was concluded in the Guildhall, Barnstaple, on Thursday afternoon. The Inquiry was conducted by the Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft. - Mr C. H. Lake was the Foreman of the Jury, which comprised Messrs. H. C. Blackmore, W. J. Parkhouse, H. Tilzey, E. G. Thorne, J. W. Jarman, J. Turner, R. James, R. Bray and R. Hannam. - Mr G. F. Lefroy represented Mr Bright, the driver of the other motor-cycle and Mr R. E. C. Balsdon represented the family of deceased. - The Coroner recalled that on the occasion when he opened the Inquiry evidence of identification was given by deceased's father, and Dr Eccles also gave evidence that the cause of death was a fracture of the skull. - Thos. James Bailey, photographer of Litchdon-street, Barnstaple, proved the taking of photographs (produced) of the scene of the accident. - Deceased's Fiancée And Oncoming Motor Cycle. - Miss Alice Maud Hutchings stated that she was a domestic servant at Ashleigh House, Barnstaple. On Saturday, June 30th, about 9.50 p.m., she left her home at Little Hill, Bishopstawton, on the back of deceased's motor-cycle in order to return to Barnstaple. She was MR CLATWORTHY'S fiancée. On the road they passed a motor-car with lights on, and she said to deceased "It is lighting-up time; stop and light your lamps." Deceased replied that he would pull up on the plain just before reaching Chestwood Hill, and then "anyone can see us from either side. " Deceased stopped his machine near the left-hand hedge on the Barnstaple side of the bungalow. Witness did not remember whether MR CLATWORTHY actually lit the lamps, for she heard something coming, "and it was on us before we knew." - The Coroner: MR CLATWORTHY did not get off his machine? - Witness: No; nor did I. I heard something coming, and I said, "There is a motor-bicycle coming at a terrific rate." Deceased said, "Yes, the blinker does not know which side to keep." - The Coroner: Can you recollect exactly what you said about the pace of the cycle that was approaching? - Witness: I said "There is a bicycle coming at a furious speed." I do not remember the exact words, but I meant that it was coming faster than it need to. - How did you judge the speed? - By the noise it was making. - MR CLATWORTHY looked up and saw it? - He said they did not know which side to keep. I do not remember anything else. - How long before the impact did MR CLATWORTHY stop his machine? - He had just stopped it when I heard the bicycle coming. - You do not know whether he had lit the lamp or not? - I do not think he had time to. - By Mr G. F. Lefroy: How were you riding on the pillion? - Witness: Sideways. - Were you off the bicycle when it stopped? - No. - What was supporting the bicycle? - Deceased had his foot on the ground. - Was the engine still running? - I do not remember. - Have you often been on this bicycle? - Every Saturday for the last few years. - In answer to Mr R. E. C. Balsdon, witness stated that when the machine stopped deceased had his left foot against the hedge. - Wm. Thomas Slee, butcher, of Bishopstawton, stated that he was a friend of Mr Bright. At 9.55 p.m., on June 30th, he met Bright at the bottom of Cross-street. A young man named Halifax was also there with his motor cycle. Bright got on the machine and with McLeod on the pillion seat rode off towards Bishopstawton. Witness got on his motor-cycle and followed them. At Newport he was some 100 yards behind them. At that time witness was doing about 20 miles an hour. Witness last saw Bright turning the corner at the top of Newport, and, he estimated, they were travelling at about the same rate as he was. Witness stopped outside Newport Church to light his rear lamp, which had gone out. When witness got to the scene of the collision he found McLeod in the middle of the road. The others were near the left-hand hedge coming from Bishopstawton. Witness pulled McLeod in towards the hedge, and shifted the bicycle a little to allow traffic to pass, and then went for a doctor. The two machines were jammed together. The front wheel of Bright's machine was embedded in the middle of deceased's machine, and the back wheel was across the road. - By Police Supt. Shutler: The two machines were locked together? - Yes. - You only moved the rear wheel of Bright's machine? - Yes. - Walter Parker, in the employ of Devon County Council at Portsmouth Arms, of High Bickington, stated that about 10.30 p.m. on June 30th he was proceeding from Barnstaple towards his home on a pedal-bicycle. - The Coroner: What was the light like? - Witness: A respectable light: I could see all right. Continuing, witness said that when he came to the scene of the accident he jumped off his bicycle and asked what was up, but he could get no answer. Witness went to where the young lady was lying across deceased's bicycle with her leg pinned underneath. He succeeded in releasing her. By that time he heard traffic approaching, which he stopped. Witness got the young lady around as well as he could, and then she started crying. He placed the young lady in the hedge and going behind deceased's bicycle he found deceased. Witness opened MR CLATWORTHY'S shirt and collar and then went across the road to where another young man was lying. Witness remained there until the doctor arrived. Deceased's bicycle was a foot from the hedge on its proper side. The front wheel of the other cycle was right into MR CLATWORTHY'S machine. - The Coroner: Were there any lights? - Witness: None at all on either of the machines. - In answer to Mr Lefroy, witness said deceased's machine was standing upright with the left handlebar against the hedge. - Questioned by Supt. Shutler as to who was on the scene first, witness replied that he could not say definitely. While he was massaging MR CLATWORTHY'S heart he heard someone say, "I will fetch a doctor and an ambulance." - Police Evidence. - P.C. John A. Brownscombe stated that he arrived at the scene of the accident at 10.30 p.m. CLATWORTHY and Bright were lying in the road with their backs against the hedge, and close to the motor-cycles. McLeod was lying in the hedge on the hedge on the opposite side of the road. The machines were on the right-hand side of the road going towards Bishopstawton. The machine ridden by Bright had its front wheel knocked off, tyre and tube ripped clean away from the rim, head lamp broken off and smashed, the off side gear lever broken off and front identification plate broken off. He found the machine was in second gear. The damage to deceased's machine was as follows: Head lamp smashed, front mudguard smashed, gear lever broken, and the petrol tank dented on the front off side. The front identification plate of Bright's machine was embedded in the gear lever of CLATWORTHY'S machine. Deceased's machine was facing Barnstaple, and was on its correct side. The back seat was 11 ft. 9 in. from the off side hedge. The width of the road at the scene of the accident was 18 ft. 8 ins. There was a clear view from the top of Chestwood Hill to the scene of the collision of 121 ft. 6 in., and the length of the road with a clear view from the top of the hill was 510 ft. The surface of the road was dry and clean. Witness made a search for skid marks, but he could find none. The following day witness examined the containers of the machines and found in the container of deceased's lamp carbide in lumps, but in the other container the carbide was in powder form. On the 3rd inst. witness visited the North Devon Infirmary and was given permission to interview both Bright and McLeod. He told Bright the nature of his enquiry and cautioned him. Bright made a statement to him, which he took down in writing and read over to him, and asked him to sign it. Bright replied, "If I sign that statement I know I am responsible and really I am not in a fit state to do so. If you will call later I may be able to recollect seeing someone or give details." - The Coroner: He would not sign the statement? - Witness: No. He meant that if he signed that statement he was responsible for that statement? - Yes, that was his reply to me. - Continuing, witness said he then interviewed McLeod, who replied: "I do not remember anything about it." On Saturday, the 7th inst., witness again visited the Infirmary, and saw Bright, who replied, "I refuse to give you a statement. What I have to say I will say at the Inquest. " Witness again interviewed McLeod, who replied: "I do not remember anything after leaving the Square." - Supt. Shutler: Did the water of deceased's lamp appear to have been turned on? - No. - Bright's carbide was wet? - Yes, and in powder form. - there was no water there? - No. - It appeared to have been lit at some time or other? - Yes. - What was the local lighting-up time on this night? - For rear lamps 9.58 and for front lamps 10.28. - Pillion Rider's Story. - Ernest Charles McLeod of 59 Vicarage-street, Barnstaple, furnishing salesman apprentice, said that on the night in question he was riding pillion on Bright's machine. He could hardly remember the time, but it was after ten o'clock. Before he got on the pillion seat he remembered lighting the front and rear lamps. - The Coroner: Why did you light them? - Witness: It was handier for me to do so. - Where were you going? - We were going to Bishopstawton. - What for? - A joy ride to see Slee home. I cannot remember anything after lighting the lamps and getting on the bicycle. - You do not recollect what pace you were travelling? - No. - Sure? - Quite sure. - When did you come to yourself? - I cannot remember anything until Monday in the Infirmary - some time in the afternoon. - Did you feel anything in the head? - My head was aching. - Supt. Shutler: Do you remember seeing the Inspector in the Infirmary on the Saturday night? - Witness: No. - Leonard John Bright was next called and the Coroner administered the customary warning, and pointed out that he need not give evidence unless he so desired. - Bright's Evidence. - Mr Lefroy said he had discussed the matter with Bright, and they both agreed that such evidence as he could give should be given. He (Mr Lefroy) had pressed his client very hard, but he could not remember. He thought the Court had better take such evidence as he could give. He had tried as hard as he could to refresh Bright's memory, but he could not remember. - Bright must do the best he could. - Leonard J. Bright said he was nineteen years of age, and was a motor mechanic employed in Barnstaple. He was a native of Exmouth, in which place he served his time. - The Coroner: What time did you leave the bottom of Cross-street? - Witness: About 10 o'clock. - I think you borrowed Halifax's machine? Yes, he asked me to ride it, as he had an appointment. We intended to see Mr Slee home at Bishopstawton just to pass away the time. - You recollect the last witness lighting up the lamps? - Yes. - You recollect riding along the Strand? - Yes. And up to Newport? - I do not remember that. - What pace were you going along the Strand? In second gear mostly. - Do you remember the pace across the Square? - No, I should pass the bridge entrance in a steady manner, as I always do. - Do you recollect anything after passing the end of the bridge? - No, I do not. - You do not recollect going up to Newport? - No. - You do not recollect anything of the impact or the collision? - No. - Are you certain about that? - Perfectly. - Have you tried to recollect? Yes, hard. - When did you recover consciousness after the collision? - I hardly know. When Mr Brownscombe saw me I was not fit. I had ramping toothache and my head was painful. I was not fit to sign any statement. - When he came to you a second time? - I was practically the same then. I think I thought it was over, and, seeing my position, I was not in a fit condition. I thought I had better reserve anything I had to say for this Inquest. - Can you give me any explanation at all of how this collision occurred? - No, I cannot. - Can you give us any theory as to how it occurred? - It could have been heaps of things. - Was the machine in good condition when you started? - Yes, perfectly. - Mr Balsdon: You remember nothing of going up through Newport? - Nothing. - How many times have you ridden this machine? - Many times. - Mr Lefroy: Your licence is perfectly clear? - Yes. - You have been riding for several years? - Yes. I have testimonials of character here from Exmouth residents. - You have never been in any sort of trouble, although you have been constantly driving? - Yes. - Mr C. H. Lake: What speed is this machine capable of doing? - About sixty miles per hour in top gear. - What about second gear? - About 45 probably; that is "all out." - The Coroner: What pace would you be likely to go up Chestwood Hill? - Mr Bright: It all depends how I was driving. The hill could be taken at a speed up to 35 miles per hour on second gear. - "Reasonably Careful." - Mr G. F. Lefroy, in his address to the Jury, said that they had an easy task as far as the facts were concerned. There was no dispute as to the accident taking place at a certain spot and that the collision between the two bicycles took place certainly on the left side of the road coming from Bishopstawton. It was on the side of the road which his client (Mr Bright) should not in the ordinary way have been. Difficulties now arose, and the Jury had to consider whether Bright was riding in a negligent manner. The first point was the question of speed. It had been proved conclusively that the machine was in second gear. The noise created by a machine in low gear did not necessarily mean speed. Although it was not lighting-up time, Bright's lamps were lit. That was evidence that Bright and his companion were in a careful frame of mind. The attitude of a headstrong and rash youngster was to get the top-most speed out of a machine, but that machine was in second gear. As to the cause of the accident, they had all those things he had pointed out to show it was not due to rashness, want of care, a desire for speed on the part of Bright. As Bright had suggested, the cause of the accident might be attributable to many things. No man need be where he was except for some accident, something uncontrolled taking place, for there was plenty of space for him to get out of the way. Something diverted his course, which, unfortunately, they did not know. It did not take long to cross from one side to another of an 18 ft. road. Bright was driving reasonably carefully, and there was not a scrap of evidence to the contrary. There were a number of contingencies that might have caused that accident, and he felt sure the Jury would find that deceased met his death by misadventure. - Pure Accident Or Manslaughter. - The Coroner, summing up, said the crux of the whole thing was whether it was a pure accident or whether it was a case of manslaughter. He did not think they could place too much confidence in Miss Hutchings's opinion as to the pace Bright's machine was travelling, for she estimated it at a terrific speed because of the noise it was making. Further, there was time for a conversation to take place between her and CLATWORTHY as to the approaching bicycle. The fact of deceased stating that the approaching cyclist did not know which side he wanted to go seemed to argue there was some sort of a wobble about the machine. The two questions he would put to the Jury were: (1) Do you consider the collision causing CLATWORTHY'S death was the result of a pure accident? (2) or was it the result of reckless and furious driving on the part of Bright. - "Negligent - But Not Criminally So." - The Jury, after a short retirement, stated that they were agreed upon their verdict. The Foreman said the Jury considered the driver of the motor-cycle was driving negligently, but not to the extent of criminal negligence. "He probably took the bend too fast, and got into a speed wobble and lost control. The Jury regret that no evidence could be obtained from the riders, and think it strange that they have no recollection after leaving the Square." - The Coroner: You do not bring in a verdict of Manslaughter? - Mr Lake: No. - The Coroner: Then I will record a verdict of Accidental Death. It is strange that neither of them know anything of what happened, but I have heard of similar cases where people have been knocked out and do not remember anything that happened immediately before the accident. Still, that does not detract from what you have said. - Mr Lake: The Jury offer their sympathy to the relatives of MR CLATWORTHY. - The Coroner: And I would add my sympathy. - Mr Balsdon acknowledged on behalf of the family of deceased, and said it was a frightfully tragic occurrence. He felt sure the family appreciated that as much evidence had been given as could be, and that the Jury had done their best with the evidence before them.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 2 August 1928
BARNSTAPLE - Combe Martin Lad's Death. "Accidental Death. " - Before Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, Borough Coroner, an Inquest was held on Monday on the body of HERBERT ARNOLD WILLIAM CATCHPOOL, 19, of East Challacombe Farm, Combe Martin, who was accidentally shot whilst fetching a duster from a coal-house. - The Coroner, outlining the case, said it was very sad, but it appeared that the unfortunate lad put the gun away loaded and the duster must have caught in the trigger and the charge caught him in the side. He was attended by the Combe Martin doctor who ordered his immediate removal to the Infirmary, where, despite the most careful attention he died on Thursday night, at 10.30 p.m. - William Vivian Laramy, farmer, of East Challacombe Farm, said the deceased was employed by him, and had been so employed since 1923. He said deceased had taken the gun, a converted rifle, from a neighbouring barn and had asked his (witness's) uncle if he could have the use of it, which was granted. He had taken the gun about two years previously, and had used it for shooting vermin on the farm. He (witness) had told him continually, even during the previous week, not to leave the guns about loaded and would call deceased's attention to it, but on the time prior to the accident he unfortunately did not. The gun was kept in a little coal-house under the stairs, and no-one except CATCHPOOL used it. On the date of the occurrence (Saturday 21st July) he saw CATCHPOOL in the farmyard and asked him to go in and help his wife. He (witness) then went into Combe Martin. About 10.30 he was told of the accident and he hurried to the farm and found him lying in the kitchen with the doctor attending him. He (witness) asked deceased what had happened and he said "I went to the coal-house to get a duster and when coming out by some means the gun went off, and the muzzle of the gun was touching my chest. It is a good job I got it myself." He (witness) said "You must have put the gun away loaded, mustn't you?" and he said "Yes, I must have, but I did not know it." - P.C. W. J. Huxtable, Combe Martin, said he went to the farm and saw four men carrying a stretcher with deceased on it. He enquired what had happened and was informed that CATCHPOOL had shot himself accidentally. He (witness), together with Mr Laramy, accompanied him to the North Devon Infirmary. He asked deceased what had happened, to be told "The gun went off." He said he must have put the gun away loaded. He had examined the gun and found an empty cartridge in the breech. He made a search, but could find no pellet marks anywhere in the coal-house. There were some dusters close to the muzzle of the gun. In further evidence, the Constable said as soon as the breech was loaded it was ready for use. There was a safety catch, however. The gun had a very easy trigger release. - Sister Nurse Pithers said the deceased when admitted was suffering from shock and severe gunshot wounds on the left side of the chest, not under the arm, and died from the same things. - The Coroner, in returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," said it was a terribly sad affair that this young fellow at the outset of his career should be so killed, unfortunately through his own fault in not doing what he was continually told to do. It was another instance and warning, if any were needed, of the great danger of handling fire-arms without the very greatest care. His verdict would be "Death from a Gunshot Wound, Accidentally sustained whilst taking out a duster from a cupboard which contained a loaded gun."

North Devon Journal, Thursday 9 August 1928
BARNSTAPLE - Sad Motor Lorry Tragedy At Shirwell. Young Bideford Girl Fatally Injured. - There was a very sad motor lorry tragedy at Irish Hill, Sherwill, near Barnstaple, on Saturday afternoon, involving the death of MARY JOAN BRIGHT, aged eleven, of Clifton-street, Bideford, and serious injury to a man named Featherstone. - MR JOHN BRIGHT, haulier, of Bideford, accompanied by his daughter, was engaged to take workmen engaged in work at Exford Kennels, to Bideford and apparently all went well until the steep declivity known as Irish Hill, Sherwill, was reached. Here the lorry got out of control and MISS BRIGHT and two or three workmen were precipitated into the roadway. MISS BRIGHT and one workman (Featherstone) were found to be seriously injured, and both were promptly conveyed to the North Devon Infirmary, but on arrival the young girl was unfortunately found to be dead. For the bereaved family, the deepest sympathy is felt in a wide district. MR BRIGHT formerly resided at Barnstaple. - The Inquest on MARY JOAN BRIGHT was held at North Devon Infirmary on Tuesday afternoon before the Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, and a Jury of which Mr H. Dalling was chosen Foreman. - JOHN BRIGHT, father of deceased, spoke to being engaged on Saturday to take workmen back to Bideford on the completion of a job at Exford Kennels. He was driving the 30-ton lorry, with one workman by his side, and in the lorry were a few odd pieces of timber, etc., five workmen and his daughter and a little boy. They returned by way of Challacombe, and the Zig-Zag at Kentisbury, and everything was all right until the hill in question was reached, shortly before two o'clock. The hill was steeper than he anticipated and the gears then "jumped and meshed," and the lorry got out of hand coming down the hill. He tried to get her into second gear, but she got too much speed, and was running at the rate of about forty miles an hour. He told the workman next to him that the vehicle had got out of gear, and also told him to "hold on." Afraid that something would come around the corner that he could not then see, and that there might be a head-on collision, witness then tried to "bank" the lorry and remembered skimming a hedge, whilst he was afterwards told that he hit a garage adjoining the road. Wheat he feared was that there might be a char-a-banc coming around the bend and that if he went on it might involve the loss of many lives; and he did what he thought best in the circumstances. If it had been a straight road no lives would have been lost. After the lorry skimmed the near side and then hit the off-side of the hedge, someone shouted that his daughter was out in the road. He then jumped out and when he reached the spot his daughter had been carried inside a gateway. She was bleeding terribly and just breathed twice before expiring in his arms. Someone came along in a car and removed his daughter to the Infirmary, and witness brought the lorry to Barnstaple. Speaking with emotion, MR BRIGHT added that he would like to thank everybody who gave a helping hand, especially the Police. - Replying to Inspector Leach, MR BRIGHT said he was running on top gear up the Zig-Zag, and he then tried to change into lower gear before the "slip" occurred. He had driven motor vehicles for forty years. - The Foreman remarked that, being a motorist himself, he did not think there was any need to change into second gear at the spot named. The fact that MR BRIGHT tried to do so showed him to be a very cautious driver. - John Wm. Pim, mason, who was sitting beside the driver at the time, stated that as they approached the hill MR BRIGHT turned round and said "We are gone Jack; hold on"; adding that "the gears are gone." The lorry first hit a garage on its proper side just outside Warren Cottage and then went across the other side and struck a hedge; and after cutting off a piece of the hedge they pulled up about 100 yards further down the road. They then got out and found Mr Featherstone sitting in the road just past the garage The little girl had by this time been picked up and carried into the Cottage porch. Witness thought she was then dead, but they lifted her into a private car, which witness accompanied to the North Devon Infirmary. Before they reached the point in question, the lorry was being steadily driven; MR BRIGHT was quite sober and was a very careful driver. - P.C. H. E. Hocking, of Shirwell, who reached the spot about 2.20, stated that he took measurements of the road and prepared a plan (produced). The deceased evidently fell in the roadway about fifteen feet from the garage. The lorry proceeded 28 yards from the garage across the road, grazed twelve yards of the hedge on the off-side, proceeded another 124 yards, cut out 14 feet of the near hedge and was then brought to a standstill. In striking the garage, the lorry moved it bodily for about two feet, and pushed it into the field. Both brakes were in working order and but for the lorry being checked by contact with the garage there would probably have been a much worse accident. - By Inspector Leach: The gradient was about one in twelve. - Dr R. Pierre, House Surgeon at North Devon Infirmary, informed the Court that the child was dead on arrival at the Institution. She was bleeding from her right ear, nose and mouth, and had a deep incised wound on the scalp and concussion, this being the cause of death. One wrist and collar-bone were, he added, fractured. - The Coroner thought it a most distressing accident, rendered more so by the fact that the lorry was driven by the poor child's own father. He could not help saying that he felt what had happened most acutely. Death was obviously due to concussion of the brain, accidentally sustained by being thrown from the lorry. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed sincere sympathy with the bereaved family, in which the Coroner concurred.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 16 August 1928
BIDEFORD - Eastleigh Child's Sad Fate. Lorry Look-Out Man's Alleged Negligence. - At Bideford Hospital on Thursday, Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner for North Devon, and a Jury investigated the death of EILEEN VERA PIDLER, aged twelve, daughter of MR WILLIAM PIDLER, mason, of Eastleigh, near Instow, who, as reported in our last issue, sustained fatal injuries through being crushed by a County Council steam lorry. - Wm. Ward, of Torrington, driver of the lorry, stated that he was proceeding from Barnstaple to Bideford, and had to pass at Eastleigh a steam roller. He saw no-one in the road. His mate suddenly called on him to stop, got down and picked up a little girl from under the waggon. The road at the spot where the accident occurred was 13 feet 9 inches and the waggon was 7 feet 6 inches. He did not see either the deceased or her sister who was with her. There was a wall on the left-hand side, and he was only about 9 inches from it. - Walter Easton, engine driver and second man on the lorry at the time of the accident, said that, sitting on the left-hand side, he looked back to see if they were clear of the steam roller and when he looked round again he saw two little girls between the front and back wheels of the lorry. He immediately jumped down and got one of the children out and the driver of the steam roller extricated the other child. - Sidney Mayne, steam roller driver, said the lorry approached at a walking pace. - Mrs Morrish, living in a house close to the spot where the accident happened, said at the time she was talking to the deceased, who was standing, with her sister by the wall. The lorry was almost on the child when she (witness) shouted to deceased to "hold tight" to the wall, which she did. she also shouted to the lorry driver to pull out. The lorry, however "seemed to turn the children round against the wall and they fell between the wheels." - Replying to the Jury, witness said there was plenty of room for the lorry without it coming so close to the wall. She (witness) had been in the same place with a pony and trap and there was room for the lorry to pass. Witness added that she would not say that the driver could see the child, but the man on the left-hand side (Easton) could, and when she told him that he had killed the child, he replied: "I know, missus, I am to blame; I am sorry." - Easton, recalled by the Coroner said he did not hear Mrs Morrish say anything about keeping off and he denied speaking to her or anyone. She was too upset. - Dr Toye said the child's chest was crushed, her ribs were broken and death was due to injuries to the lung and haemorrhage and shock. - The Jury, of which Mr R. Butler was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - They exonerated the driver of the lorry, but thought there was negligence on the part of Easton, the look-out man, but in no way culpable negligence. - The Coroner: You are of opinion that Easton's behaviour is deserving of censure? - The Foreman: Not severely sir. - The Coroner said he did not think Easton could have been looking out in front as he should have been. It was no fault of the driver, as he could not possibly see on Easton's side of the road.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 23 August 1928
BARNSTAPLE - Struck By A Train Near Barnstaple. Seaman's Fatal Injuries. - Visiting Barnstaple on Wednesday, THOMAS BETTERIDGE, 27 and John Robert Cadwallader, of the s.s. "Harptreecombe," laying off Fremington Quay, lost the last train back to Fremington. Deciding to walk back to Fremington shortly before eleven o'clock, they took the Southern railway track as the shorter route, and were resting about a mile from Barnstaple, when BETTERIDGE was struck by a railway engine, sustaining a compound fracture of the left arm and severe head injuries. Cadwallader returned with all haste to summon aid, and Constables Squire and Fry, with Inspector Pring and ganger Daniels, of the Southern Railway, accompanied by Dr S.R. Gibbs, went to the scene with the ambulance. The unfortunate man was promptly conveyed to the North Devon Infirmary, but died early on Thursday morning as the result of the injuries. BETTERIDGE resided at 5 Old Row, Millward-street, Gloucester. - The sad affair was investigated by the Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, at the Infirmary on Thursday afternoon. The Southern Railway Company were represented by Police-Inspector F. J. Matthews, Permanent-way Inspector A. Pring and Inspector Edwards and the County Police by Inspector Leach. - Charles Henry Parker, chief officer of the vessel, gave evidence of identification. - John Robert Cadwallader, Swansea, steward of the vessel, said deceased and himself visited Barnstaple on Wednesday, catching the 7.20 p.m. train from Fremington, and walked about the town. - The Coroner: Did deceased have anything to drink? - Witness: He did, sir. - What did he have? - Three bottles of stout. - What time did he have the last bottle? - About 9.45 p.m. - You are a teetotaller? - That is right. - Proceeding, witness said they started for their ship at 10.50 p.m. They knew before hand there were no trains back and, on deceased's suggestion, they got over the railings on to the line and started to walk to Fremington. After covering about a mile deceased suddenly took the lead. Just afterwards he said, "Let's have a smoke," and sat down on the outside of a sleeper. Witness sat down on the grass about 15 yards away. After a few minutes, witness looked up the line and said, "There's a light engine coming. It isn't a train. It's only an engine." Deceased must have looked that way, as he said, "Well, she's got a poor mast-head light there." Witness told deceased three times, "Get out of the way, TOM," and he replied "All right." - The Coroner: What happened then? - Witness: I was turning round to watch it go to Barnstaple. "After two or three minutes, I called "TOM," and could get no reply and started to walk up the narrow track to where he was. I could not see very well. It was a black night and as I got up I lit a match and I saw him lying with his face on the gravel." Witness did what he could for his companion, carried him on to the grass and then ran all the way to Barnstaple for help. Deceased was on the outside of the railway metals when witness picked him up. - P.C. J. Squires stated that immediately Dr Gibbs was communicated with he proceeded to the Junction Station and then to the scene of the accident. The ambulance box was taken from the Station, and witness and P.C. J. Fry also took field dressings. After being medically attended, deceased was brought back on a trolley. - Dr S. R. Gibbs, next called, said that seeing the serious condition in which deceased was he immediately communicated with Dr Shaw, and they were both with him to the end. BETTERIDGE had a fracture of the arm, a bad scalp wound and probably a fracture of the skull, besides injuries to the back, from which, combined with shock and exposure, he died. - Wm. Smale, the engine driver, said he knew nothing of the mishap until he came on duty that day. He saw nothing on the line. He had the usual headlight and at the spot was going at 20 to 25 miles an hour. There would have been a view of the engine at the spot of half to three-quarters of a mile. If deceased was sitting on the sleeper witness could not possibly have seen him in the darkness. In the usual way, witness examined the engine on returning to the Junction Station, and there were no marks on it. - Percival Balsdon, the fireman, also said he saw nothing of the deceased. He agreed that the engine was examined in the usual way when they reached Barnstaple, and there was no mark on it. - Returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," the Coroner thought BETTERIDGE, when observing the engine, must have mistaken the pace at which it was coming and left it too long to get out of the way before he was caught by it. There was no-one to blame except the poor unfortunate man, who was where he had no right to be. He was very pleased to note the very prompt action of the Police and the prompt attendance of Dr Gibbs, who went to the scene of the accident. - Inspector Leach acknowledging the Coroner's remarks regarding the Police, said they were always prepared to do what they could in cases of emergency.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 30 August 1928
TORRINGTON - Ran In Front Of Motor Car. Torrington Child's Sad Death. - Running in front of a motor car on Saturday evening, HERBERT CHARLES KEENOR, the two year and eight months' old son of JAMES KEENOR, a clay worker, of Yarde Cottage, Petersmarland, sustained fatal injuries. Dr O'Flaherty and Constable Conbeer, of Torrington, were soon on the scene with others, but their services were of no avail. - At the Inquest on Monday, held before Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner for North Devon, John Henry Lethbridge, of Petersmarland, driver of the car, stated on coming round the corner near the railway crossing at Yarde Halt, he saw two little boys and sounded his hooter. The younger boy had dropped an apple and after picking it up, they went one each side of the road. When within about three feet of him the deceased darted right in front of the car in attempting to rush across to the brother. Witness was travelling about seven or eight miles an hour when he first saw the children. The back wheel went over the deceased, as there was blood on it. The brakes were on before, and when KEENOR began to run across, witness put them on full, but it was impossible to stop in time, although he pulled up within a very short distance. - Arthur Balkwill, one of the five passengers in the car, said under the circumstances it was not possible to avoid the accident. - Dr A. R. O'Flaherty said deceased's head was fearfully crushed and it was obvious the boy was killed instantly. - The Coroner, remarking that it was purely one of those unfortunate accidents happening nowadays, especially in regard to children running across roads, thought the Jury could do no other than record, "Accidental Death." - The Jury, of which Mr Frank Elliott was Foreman, returned a verdict accordingly, expressing the opinion that no blame attached to Mr Lethbridge.

BARNSTAPLE - Barnstaple Man's Fatal Fall. The Inquest. - The Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, conducted an Inquest on Thursday at the North Devon Infirmary, on FREDERICK THOMAS MARLBOROUGH, aged 45, of Albert Place, Barnstaple, furniture packer, in the employ of Messrs. Chaplin and Co., who fell from his waggon while driving across Barnstaple Long Bridge on Tuesday afternoon, and died of injuries caused by the vehicle passing over him. Messrs. Spurway and Asher represented the Company. The accident was described by Miss Gloria Ruth Jewell, a young lady staying at Ladysmith Villas, who spoke to seeing deceased on his waggon just as it had crossed the bridge, near the entrance to Anchor Wood bank. The horse attached to the waggon appeared restive -trotting and throwing up its head, and the deceased stood up, pulling the reins, when his foot slipped, causing him to lose his balance, and he fell between the horse and the waggon. He tried to free himself, but the horse went on and seemed to kick him. One of the wheels of the waggon appeared to go over his face and another over his body. The animal was soon stopped by someone and several people ran to the man's assistance. - Miss Phyllis Datson, of Sticklepath, who was walking in company with the previous witness at the time, also spoke to seeing the deceased on the ground after falling; while William Welding, a motor mechanic, who was also near by and ran to deceased's assistance, said MARLBOROUGH wriggled after he had fallen and one wheel passed over his chest, while another appeared to have gone over his face, which was bleeding. He appeared to be badly hurt, and said he could not stand the pain much longer and that he could not "get his breath." The waggon was fairly loaded and the horse, which did not appear to be going fast, stopped a length and a half of the waggon from where the man was on the ground. Witness mentioned that the scene of the accident was only a couple of yards from the entrance to Messrs. Chaplin's stables and he was first under the impression that the horse and waggon had come from there. - The Coroner thought it might have been that the horse turned to go into the stable-yard, and the driver pulled it out again. - Deceased's son said his father had been accustomed to horses all his life and Hubert E. Gaydon, delivery clerk in the employ of Messrs. Chaplins, said he saw deceased as he was crossing the bridge just before the accident. MARLBOROUGH was then riding on the bed of the wagon, seated on the near side. He stopped his horse and spoke to witness, and then proceeded towards the Junction Station, the horse again walking. - Police-Inspector Leach: Is there any seat provided for the driver of this kind of open vehicle? - No; there is no particular seat. He was sitting on the bed of the wagon. - Dr Rene Pierre, House Surgeon at the North Devon Infirmary, where deceased was taken after the accident, said he had an incised wound on the left side of his face and another on the back of his head, while the whole of the right side of his chest was crushed in, the ribs being fractured and there was evidence of severe injury to the lungs. He died of shock and haemorrhage about a quarter of an hour after admission, and did not say how the accident occurred. - The Coroner said the cause of the accident was something of a mystery, but he thought it very likely that the horse might have turned to go into its accustomed stable yard, and deceased got up from where he was sitting on the lorry and pulled it around, and that the action tended to throw him over. It was perfectly plain that it was an accident, and no one was to blame at all in the matter. - The Jury, of which Mr W. Tolley was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." - Mr W. A. Glasby, a Juryman, asked the Coroner if he could not add a rider concerning the state of the road. - The Funeral. - There were widespread evidences of esteem and sympathy, at the funeral on Saturday, friends of all classes attending. The initial service was held in the Salvation Army Hall, Adjutant Hodge officiating. The band was present, under Mr F. Shambrook and Colour-Sergt. H. Taylor bore the flag. The hymns, "There's a better world" and "Lead, Kindly Light," were sung by the choir, with the Band leading. Prayers were said by Sergt.-Major Macey and Mrs Keates, whilst Adjt. Hodge read the lesson and Miss W. Hearne paid a warm tribute to the life and work of the deceased. - The interment was made in the Cemetery, Adjt. Hodge officiating. The principal mourners were the widow and son, MR MARLBOROUGH and Mrs Kerby (father and sister), Mr T. Marlborough (brother),Mrs Ridgley (sister-in-law), Mr C. Kerby (brother-in-law). Messrs Chaplins, Ltd., by whom Mr Marlborough had been employed, were represented by Messrs. A. S. Asher (manager at Barnstaple), plus fellow workmen. - [others attending were also listed.] Memorial Service. - A memorial service to the late MR MARLBOROUGH was held in the Salvation Army Hall on Sunday. Adjt. Hodge conducted the service.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 6 September 1928
NORTHAM - Baby's Fatal Scalds At Appledore. - Fatal scalds, through the accidental upsetting of a saucepan of boiling coffee, were sustained by the 1 ½ years old daughter of MR and MRS PHILIP W. BOWDEN, of Irsha-street, Appledore. - At the Inquest on Thursday evening, deceased's elder sister informed Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner for North Devon, that whilst her mother went into an adjoining room to etch the coffee strainer, she took the saucepan off the fire and put it on the hearth for a moment, whilst she put the kettle on the fire. The child was sitting on a box near by and before witness had time to pick the saucepan up again and replace it on the stove, the baby had fallen against it, knocking it over, and badly scalding herself. - Dr A. W. Valentine stated that the child was badly scalded from the tip of her right ear to her finger-tips, all down the neck, right shoulder and arm. She seemed to progress fairly well at first, but subsequently collapsed and died from shock. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was recorded.

BRAUNTON - Well-Known Barumite's Tragic End. Found Dead Astride His Motor Cycle. - Deeply pained and stirred with profound sympathy for those suddenly bereaved, were the inhabitants of Barnstaple yesterday morning, on learning of the tragic death of one of the borough's deservedly popular young citizens, in the person of MR ARTHUR FRAYNE, of High-street. - Mr Alfred Braunton, contractor for the postal mails between Barnstaple and Ilfracombe, left the borough on his usual round early yesterday morning and kindly gave a lift to Mr R. Scoins, who was looking for work in the Ilfracombe District. Knowle had been reached, when about fifty yards from the Ebrington Arms on the Braunton side a motor-cyclist was seen astride his machine, with his head forward, close to the hedge. The mail van was immediately stopped and both Mr Braunton and Mr Scoins were startled to find that the young man was apparently dead, having sustained grave injuries to the head. Some horse-hair was later discovered on the handle-bar of the machine, and this was thought to provide a significant clue to the terrible occurrence. Mr Braunton immediately fetched P.S. Challis from Braunton, whilst a medical man was also speedily on the scene; but the doctor could only pronounced life to be extinct. A further shock awaited Mr Braunton a little later, when the body of the young man was identified as that of MR FRAYNE, who for some years has been one of his closest personal friends. As the sad circumstances attending the tragedy were elicited at last evening's Inquest (a report of which is subjoined) it is only necessary to here add that MR FRAYNE left Barnstaple on his motor-cycle about 7.30 on Tuesday evening in order to visit his fiancé, Miss Davis, a nurse, who has been at Morte Hoe Convalescent Home for her health for some little time; and as the head of his machine was towards Barnstaple when found he was obviously returning home when the accident occurred. - Aged thirty, MR ARTHUR FRAYNE was the youngest son of the late MR W. H. FRAYNE, J.P., for many years the honoured Secretary of "Court Taw Vale" of the Ancient Order of Foresters - a position now held by the eldest son, MR J. FRAYNE. The deceased served in the Royal North Devon Hussars in the Great War and he had for many years been a valued assistant at Messrs. Sydney Harper and Sons, the well-known booksellers and stationers, of High-street. He was for some years a choir-boy at the Parish Church. MR FRAYNE had from its inception occupied the position of Hon. Secretary of Barnstaple Billiard and Snooker League, being an exceedingly popular official. A young man of the happiest disposition, he enjoyed the highest regard of all who knew him and to many his death is in the nature of a personal loss. - Inquest Story. - The Inquest was held at the Braunton Parish Room last evening by the North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, and a Jury of which Mr G. Frankpitt was elected Foreman. Supt. Shutler represented the Police, and Mr R. E. C. Balsdon represented Mr C. Chugg, of Boode Farm, Braunton. - The Coroner, outlining the facts, said deceased left Barnstaple on his motor-cycle to go to Morte-Hoe, and left Morte-Hoe to return to Barnstaple, meeting with an accident at Knowle, of which, however, there appeared to be no actual witnesses. - MR W. J. FRAYNE, deceased's brother, said his brother was 30 years of age. He last saw him alive at 7 p.m. the previous evening. He did not say where he was going, but it was an understood thing that he was going to Morte-Hoe. He had ridden a motor-cycle for about five years and so far as he knew had never had an accident. - Mrs Smerdon, of Knowle, said she was in bed somewhere between 12.30 and 1 a.m. when she heard horses running in the road. She got out of bed and looked out of the window and saw a man whom she did not recognise, pick up a motor cycle lying in the road and wheel it to the opposite side. She went to the door of her daughter's bedroom and called her and her husband, and then returned to her own room and put on her dressing gown. She went to the window again and both the man and the motor cycle had gone. She did not see any horses and the man appeared to walk properly. She did not notice anything when she saw him pick up his bicycle; the first time he picked it up it slipped from his hands, but the second time he picked it up and crossed the road. No-one went out to see what had happened, because he had gone. She saw no light, and it was a moonlight night and she could see quite clearly. - Mr Alfred Charles Braunton, mail contractor, of Barnstaple, said it was about 5.40 a.m., when he got on the bend at that spot about 50 yards before the Ebrington Arms. He saw a man sitting on his motor bike, lying over just as one would to turn on the petrol. He went some yards past and he thought it was funny the man on the motor cycle should not say good morning or look up and take any notice at all of his passing. He reversed his car back to the spot and got out and went over to the cyclist and said "what's up, old boy." There was no answer. He lifted up deceased's head and saw the mouth and the nose bleeding and there was a lot of congealed blood on the chin. He held up deceased's hand and felt his pulse, but there was no movement. He put his ear over to listen to his heart and found he was dead. The hands were cold, but the head and neck perfectly warm. He immediately jumped into his car and went back to Braunton for the Police. Subsequently he proceeded to Ilfracombe but saw no horses or cattle. - Police-Sergeant W. Challis of Braunton, said he received information from the last witness about 5.50 a.m., and Mr Braunton then drove him (witness) and P.C. Upward to the scene of the occurrence. - The machine was in a leaning position against the hedge and the deceased was sitting on it. His hands were "blood all over," the lamp (produced) being on the near side of the machine in front of the rider's left leg, and the bloodstained finger-marks on it showed it had been put there by deceased. It had been torn off from its rest. There were no marks in the hedge to indicate that there had been a collision, and there were no external marks on deceased which he could see would cause death. Therefore, he awaited the arrival of Dr Wright, whom he had sent for, before he moved the body from the position in which it was found. He made a search along the road and 300 yards from where the deceased was sitting on his cycle, right in the dip between the Ebrington Arms and the shop, there was a petrol patch surrounded by broken glass. He found hose hairs on the handlebars of the machine. There were no blood-marks on the road. By and around the petrol patch there was a number of hoof-prints and there was a skid mark forty feet long towards Ilfracombe, broken in periods. This was on the right centre of the road towards Braunton, which at that point was twenty-one feet wide. They then returned to deceased and on lifting him found a blood-stained handkerchief (produced) which had evidently dropped from his right hand. His mackintosh was unbuttoned, and on searching his pockets they found blood-stained cigarette packets, indicating that he had put his hand in after he had met with his accident. - P.C. Upward made inquiries about the horses and at 10.30 a.m. he (witness) visited Boode Farm and there saw a horse owned by Mr Cecil Chugg - a light bay horse - and on its off hind leg there was a cut three inches long and very slight. Inside the off fore leg there was a cut rather deep, about three inches long. They were very fresh cuts both of them. In his opinion, the cycle struck the horse with the front identification plate and the deceased hit the horse on the hind part, the wheel of the machine going right between the animal's legs. The hair on the machine corresponded with the colour of the horse. A field in the occupation of Mr Chugg was pointed out to him by Mr Albert Gubb, in which, he said, the horses were put the previous evening. There were hoof marks through the gateway, the staple of which was quite loose and one part recently broken off. The distance from the gate to the scene of the accident was about a mile. - Albert Thomas Gubb, in the employ of Mr Chugg, said he put the horses in the field and shut the gate and "apsed it." Other fields led into the field in question, and the gate from which they escaped was not the one at which they had been put into the field. He had put a fresh horse in the field with the two usual horses the previous evening for the first time, and it looked as if this animal had cornered the others, causing them to force the gate. There was plenty of water in the field. - Albert Dennis Andrew of Boode, spoke to finding the light bay horse straying on the road and another in a field of which the gate was half open. It was not the field they came out of. He saw no third horse. (Sergt. Challis: The third horse has not yet been found). Witness said much trouble was caused by thoughtless people, gathering mushrooms and so on, leaving gates open and often gates were found absolutely unhung. - Ernest James Geen, of Braunton, spoke to finding the staple of Mr Chugg's gate lying in the road; the gate of the field was open against the road. He saw no horses. - Dr Wright, Braunton, said Dr Lewers and he had made a post-mortem examination of deceased, and had found that deceased had extensive fracture of the skull. There were no marks externally at all; the only blood was on his hands. The stuff on the nose and mouth was vomited from the stomach. The cause of death was a fracture of the skull, with haemorrhage. He thought that in the general stampede a knee or hock of a horse could have caused the fatal injuries. It would have to be something bluntish to leave no mark at all. Death might have occurred within a few minutes or any number of hours. - MR FRAYNE (brother) to witness: Had help been available, would it have been of any advantage? - Dr Wright: Not in the least. - Sergt. Challis mentioned that a Mr Staddon, who was unfortunately away, had seen deceased wheeling the cycle and place it against the wall about 30 paces from the Ebrington Arms and appeared to be tinkering with his lamp. From there he moved forward to where he was found, and Mr Staddon naturally thought he was doing something to the machine and went back to bed. - Replying to the Coroner, the Foreman of the Jury intimated that the Jury did not require Staddon to be called. - MR FRAYNE here mentioned that Staddon had told him that he had watched his brother for 20 minutes. The whole village seemed to have awakened by the galloping horses and they were all more or less listening. - The Coroner, briefly reviewing the evidence, said the Police had been able to get practically the whole of the evidence necessary in the case, and the inquiries had been well and quickly made. - After a short retirement, the Jury gave a verdict of "Accidental Death," with no blame attaching to anyone. They commended the action of Mr Braunton, which they described (through the Foreman) as "commendable and thoroughly English." The Jury and coroner expressed deep sympathy with the relatives of the deceased. In this expression Mr Balsdon joined on behalf of Mr Chugg and personally. - MR FRAYNE feelingly acknowledged.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 20 September 1928
ILFRACOMBE - Ilfracombe Motor Fatality. Young Exonian Killed In Collision. - As the result of severe injuries sustained in a motor collision, on Sunday afternoon, on the Barnstaple - Ilfracombe ("Two Pots") Road, MR HERBERT JOHN WHITTON, age 26, proprietor of the Plymouth Inn, St Thomas, Exeter, died at the Ilfracombe Tyrrell Hospital, on Sunday evening, at 9.30 p.m. - Apparently, MR WHITTON, who had been staying with his Uncle, who resides at Blatchford near Barnstaple, anticipated visiting some relatives in Ilfracombe, and making the journey on his A.J.S., solo motor-cycle, approached the cross road at Iron Letters (which is approximately 2 ½ miles from Ilfracombe), when a collision occurred with a 14 seater char-a-banc, driven by Mr Edgar Laramy, an employee of Messrs. Hancock Brothers, of St James Place, Ilfracombe. The char-a-banc was taking a party of visitors for an afternoon drive. MR WHITTON was picked up badly injured and bleeding profusely. Dr A. E. Osborne, who was out motoring, fortunately happened to pass along, and attended to the injured cyclist Meanwhile, Mr Brake, of Barnstaple, had cycled to Ilfracombe and summoned the Police and ambulance. P.C's Jewell and Eddy promptly arrived on the scene and MR WHITTON was immediately conveyed to the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital. It was ascertained that his leg was broken in four places and there were extensive injuries to the head and body. MR WHITTON passed away at 9.30 p.m. - A sad feature of the tragedy is that it follows two recent bereavements which befel deceased in the deaths of MR WHITTON'S wife and father. The late Mr Arthur Frayne, whose death occurred some few weeks ago on the Braunton-road, was an acquaintance of the late MR WHITTON and was defeated by him in a recent snooker competition. MR WHITTON was well-known in sporting circles in the Exeter district and his loss will be felt by those with whom he associated. - The Inquest. - The North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, conducted the Inquest at the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital on Tuesday. Mr C. W. Tiler was chosen Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner said that on Sunday last MR WHITTON as in North Devon and had dinner with his uncle. He proceeded by motor cycle to Ilfracombe, along the old Barnstaple road. A 14-seater char-a-banc, driven by Mr Edgar Laramy, was coming from Ilfracombe and going to Woody Bay and Hunters' Inn. When he got near Iron Letters he saw the motor cyclist coming towards him at a very fast speed, and by some means the cyclist struck the char-a-banc. The measurements of the road which the char-a-banc occupied from his near side was 9 ft. 9 ins., and the road being 25 ft wide, which left 15 ft. 6 ins. for other traffic. The char-a-banc was going at a very moderate rate. The motor-cycle, as they had seen, was buckled up in an extraordinary manner and the deceased was thrown 16 ft. further than where the motor-cycle was found, sustaining very serious injuries. Dr A. E. Osborne happened to be passing and rendered what aid he could, and a gentleman named Brake, of Barnstaple, who was passing, kindly came to Ilfracombe and informed the Police, who obtained the ambulance. He was conveyed to the Hospital and on Sunday the unfortunate man passed away. - EDWARD W. WHITTON, of Blatchford, Barnstaple, uncle of the deceased, said that he had identified the body as that of his nephew, aged 26 years. He was a foundry engineer of Exeter. His nephew came to him on Saturday and remained with him until Sunday. He got up on the Sunday morning and went to Croyde on his motor-cycle. On returning he had dinner with him, leaving for Ilfracombe at about 2.15. He was in the best of health when he left and quite sober. That was the last he saw of him. - Mr Edgar Laramy, driver of the char-a-banc, said he was employed by Messrs. Hancock Bros. On Sunday last he was taking the 14-seater to Woody Bay with visitors, and when he got near Iron Letters he was travelling about 10 to 12 miles per hour. He approached the corner and blew his horn. He saw the motor-cyclist coming very fast and the next thing he heard was a crash. He stopped, got out and went back. He saw the motor-cycle lying on its side facing Barnstaple and several feet away was deceased. On examining his char-a-banc he found the front mudguard twisted, the step was twisted and the back mudguard was jammed between the twin wheels at the back. - Ernest James Mullen, of the Strand, Ilfracombe, who was a passenger on the char-a-banc, stated that the motor-cyclist was coming at a terrific speed. He was on them before one could say "Jack Robinson." He estimated the speed of the char-a-banc at about 10 to 12 miles per hour. - Gilbert Slee, another passenger, said the char-a-banc was well on his left-hand side. - Dr A. E. Osborne said deceased was unconscious and very severely hurt. When removed to the Hospital, deceased was found to have fractured his right leg in five places, including one compound fracture, his right wrist dislocated; and he had two large scalp wounds. It was possible there was concussion. Two other doctors were called in consultation and half-an-hour later he died without regaining consciousness. Death was due to shock from extensive injuries and loss of blood. Witness thought deceased was so deeply unconscious that he could not feel any pain. - P.C. Jewell said that the char-a-banc left 15 feet 6 inches clear for other traffic. From the point of the impact to where the motor cycle lay was 38 feet. Deceased was thrown 16 feet. - The Coroner said that he could call other witnesses who were passengers in the char-a-banc, but it seemed perfectly plain the char-a-banc was driven at a reasonable rate, and the motor cyclist must have been going fast - evidently too fast to straighten out after rounding the corner. - The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death and attached no blame to the driver of the char-a-banc. They expressed their deep sympathy with the relatives. - MR E. W. WHITTON, uncle of deceased, on behalf of the family, thanked the Jury for their condolence and particularly the Police, Doctors, Nurse at the Hospital and Mr Brake, of Barnstaple. - Mr R. T. McGahey, of Exeter, represented the relatives of the deceased, and P.S. Snell represented the Police.

ATHERINGTON - Atherington Farmer's Tragic End. Thrown From His Horse. - The parishioners of Atherington and the surrounding district were greatly grieved to hear of the tragic death on Saturday of MR GEORGE LEY DOWN, of Little Hall, Atherington. In company with his son FRANCIS, MR DOWN left home in charge of some cattle, being mounted on his pony. When on Dorridge Hill, about half a mile from the farm, the son went ahead in order to prevent the cattle going down a bye road. About the same time two lorries came down the hill, causing the pony to shy and heavily throw its rider. MR DOWN was at once picked up, but his injuries were of so grave a nature that he passed away within a short time. - Aged 56, MR DOWN was a life-long resident of Atherington, and for his sterling qualities he was held in the highest general esteem. He filled various offices, being a member of the Parish Church, a school manager and also taking an active part in the work of the Church. Sympathy with the bereaved widow, son and four daughters is widespread. - Mr G. W. F. Brown, North Devon Coroner, conducted the Inquest at Little Hall Farm, Atherington, on Monday. - FRANCIS GEORGE DOWN, (deceased's son), said himself and his father left home on the date in question to drive some bullocks to Bray Bridge, two or three miles the Atherington side of Southmolton. His father was riding the pony. When they got to Dorridge Hill they met two timber waggons, one of which passed him. The bullocks went into a lane and his father went into a gateway to let the waggons pass. On next looking down the road he (witness) saw his father lying in the road with one of the drivers of the waggons beside him. The pony was walking down the road. His father only lived a few minutes. The pony was about 20 years old and was exceptionally quiet. - Ronald Adams, timber haulier, of Warkleigh, said he was driving his waggon and saw MR DOWN go across the road and stand in the gateway. He passed him and then heard a shout. Witness immediately stopped and ran around to the other side of the waggon, where he saw deceased lying on his back in the roadway, with his feet about two feet away from the front wheel of the waggon. Witness did not think the waggon touched deceased, and was off the road when standing in the gateway. He could not account for the accident. Adams said he was driving a second waggon behind the last witness. Both waggons were drawn by three horses. He saw the deceased's horse "jump around," and MR DOWN must have fallen backwards. The horse seemed to rear on its front legs and then sit down on its haunches. Witness could not tell what made the pony turn round. He did not think any part of the waggon hit it. - Deceased's son: The horse was bound to have gone down because he was dust all over and had cuts about the legs. - Dr Good (High Bickington), said the deceased was quite dead when he arrived on the scene of the accident. He had a fracture of the base of the skull. The bottom of the right ear was terribly torn about and it looked to him as if the horse had fallen down and pushed him up the hill. There were other small marks on the face and on the road there was a patch of hair. - P.C. J. Winsor (Chittlehampton) said the road at the point in question was 15 feet wide. - The Coroner, returning a verdict of "Accidental Death" said that it was a curious thing that three or four people were present and yet not one of them actually saw what happened. He thought with Dr Good that the pony must have turned round and slipped, throwing the deceased very heavily on the back of his head, but whether he was dragged or pushed they could not tell. There was no blame attaching to anyone, but it was just a most unfortunate accident.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 4 October 1928
LANDKEY - Landkey Boy's Tragic Death. "Thought It Was A Fag Card." - A very sad fatality occurred on Monday morning at Swymbridge Newland, when HERBERT DESMOND STEVENS, aged five years, son of MR FRANCIS HENRY STEVENS, of Swymbridge Newland, was accidentally knocked down and killed by a passing motor-cyclist. At the time the victim was walking to Landkey School with an elder brother and a companion named Francis Pitman. The accident took place on an incline in the road on the Swymbridge side of Landkey Bridge. It seemed that just as a motor-car, proceeding towards Swymbridge had passed by the children, Mr Cyril Mark Holmes, of Millayes, Kentisbeare, Cullompton, riding a motor-cycle, proceeding to his work at Abbotsham, approached from the opposite direction and deceased stopped in front of it. The motor-cyclist was thrown, but escaped any injury. The child, who was then seriously hurt, was taken by Mr Holmes to one of the cottages by the roadside and attended by Nurse Northcombe (the Parish Nurse) but, however, died within a short time. - The Inquest. - At the Inquest on Tuesday afternoon, the sad story of the child's fate was related. Mr W. Lewis was elected Foreman of the Jury and Mr G. W. F. Brown, North Devon Coroner, conducting the Inquiry, outlining the facts, stated above. - Mrs Violet Doreen Crook said on Monday morning she was standing on her door-step at 8.45 a.m., and saw a little boy in the road coming towards Barnstaple on the left-hand side. A car passed and the little boy made as if to dive for the other side, where there were some other children. She saw a motor-cyclist coming down the road from Swymbridge. She did not notice whether he was going fast. She did not actually see the little boy knocked down, and the next thing she saw was the motor-cyclist picking up the boy and bringing him into the house. He was then dead. - Cyril Mark Holmes, (the motor-cyclist) said at about 8.30 a.m., he was riding his 2 ¾ h.p. A.J.S. on his way to Abbotsham. He remembered meeting a car, and he saw the boy walking along the left-hand side of the road. Witness sounded his horn as the car approached him, and the car hooter also sounded. At that time he was riding between ten and fifteen miles an hour and had nearly stopped to let the car pass. He had let his clutch out when he saw deceased stepping across to get to the other side. He applied his brakes and did everything he could to avoid the accident; but the left-hand brake struck the boy. He then picked up deceased and carried him into Mrs Crook's house. - The Foreman: Did he run or walk across? - Witness: No, he "sort of walked across." - Frank Pitman (school companion of deceased), stated he was on the same side of the road as his companion. He saw a car pass and a motor-cycle coming down the road. "HERBERT went across the road in front of the motor-cycle." - The Coroner: Why did he want to cross the road? - Witness: He saw a piece of paper and thought it was a fag card. - Queenie Body, another school companion, also gave evidence. - Dr Sanders (Barnstaple) said the child sustained a fracture of the skull and laceration of the brain. - P.C. Tucker said the road was 19 feet wide at the place of the accident. There was a skid mark to show the motor-cycle had gone 21 feet before going into the steps. - The Coroner, in summing up, said he thought it was a pure accident. It was quite clear that the boy did not look where he was going. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and the advisability of putting a warning notice at the top of the hill was suggested. - Public sympathy at the funeral yesterday, was evidenced by the many present and the wealth of floral tributes. The interment was made in the Wesleyan Churchyard, Rev. J. T. Henwood officiating. In the first portion of the service in the United Methodist Church, the hymn, "Safe in the Arms of Jesus," was sung, Miss Southcombe being at the organ. The principal mourners were the parents and Ronald (brother), Mr and Mrs J. Stevens and Mr and Mrs G. Lock (grandparents), Mr and Mrs S. Trute, Mr and Mrs Cudmore, Mr and C. W. Chown, Mr and Mrs F. Thorning,, Mrs W. Stevens, Mrs J. Stevens, Mrs Tucker, and Mr F. J. Stevens (uncles and aunts), Mesdames G. Ripon, W. Thomas, Miss N. Tucker and Mr W. Tucker (cousins). [Long list of other mourners followed].

NORTHAM - Northam Youth's Suicide. - The story of a few cross words between a boy and girl, the former of whom kissed his sweetheart, and was afterwards found hanging from a door in the house in which the girl was employed, was told at an Inquest held at Northam on Thursday evening by the North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown. Deceased was GEORGE HERBERT TAYLOR, aged 17 years of No. 37 Honestone-street, Bideford. - The Coroner's verdict was one of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind."

North Devon Journal, Thursday 11 October 1928
BARNSTAPLE - Suicide Whilst Of Unsound Mind. Elderly Barnstaple Woman's Sad End. - Sympathy with the bereaved family was general at Barnstaple on Thursday when it became known that MRS MARINA WEBBER, aged 72, who had been living with her son and daughter-in-law at 32 Newport-road, had ended her life. - MRS BESSIE WEBBER informed the Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, at the Inquest in the afternoon that when she took her mother-in-law a cup of tea to her bedroom about 8 a.m. she appeared to be quite normal. - MISS BERYL WEBBER, who took her grandmother her breakfast about 10 o'clock, spoke to finding her in a sitting position on the floor tied by the neck with the red girdle of her dressing gown to the bottom rail of the bed. Witness at once called her father. - MR HERBERT HARRY WEBBER, cab proprietor, stated that his mother attempted to take her life in August 1921, and had twice been in the Asylum. On the last occasion she was away six years, returning home nearly twelve months ago. About three months ago he called in Dr Sanders to see his mother and since then she had been splendid. On the previous day she appeared to be a little excited, but witness never dreamt she would make any attempt on her life. Called by his daughter that morning, he found his mother as stated; and she was quite dead. He tried to lift her, but she was completely gone; and he immediately cut the girdle with a table knife. A note found in the bedroom read:- "I cannot go through another day like yesterday. Bury me with LEN and father, and put a stone." - Witness explained that "LEN" was a brother they lost during the War. - Dr Kenneth G. W. Sanders said MRS WEBBER was somewhat out of sorts in March, but with a bottle of medicine soon got all right. There was nothing of a suicidal tendency, and he thought it quite safe for her to remain with her family. - The Coroner suggested that sometimes after people had attempted their lives they might do so again without any particular reason, and there was no way to guard against this. - Dr Saunders assented. When he was called that morning MRS WEBBER had been dead about twenty minutes to half-an-hour, death being due to asphyxiation through hanging. In his opinion all reasonable precautions had been taken by the family to prevent MRS WEBBER doing herself any harm. - P.S. Milford added that he had satisfied himself that since MRS WEBBER'S release from the Asylum her son had done everything possible to comply with the requirements of the authorities. - The Coroner repeated that there were cases of people, after once attempting to take their lives, doing so again, although apparently perfectly well; and that was what had happened in this particular instance. He returned a verdict of "Death from Asphyxiation due to Hanging Herself, whilst of Unsound Mind."

North Devon Journal, Thursday 18 October 1928
LYNTON - Lynton Blacksmith's Death. The Inquest Story. - An Inquiry into death of MR WILLIAM PRISCOTT, blacksmith, of Barbrook, Lynton, was conducted on Saturday, by Mr G. W. F. Brown, Coroner for North Devon. - MRS LUCY PRISCOTT, widow, stated deceased was 60. On Thursday he went to work and appeared as usual. He had not been in the best health for some time, but had taken his meals regularly. He had to get up seven or eight times during Thursday night owing to a complaint from which he suffered, but otherwise appeared alright. He retired to bed on Thursday night about 8.30, and had a good tea at 5 o'clock. On Friday morning he got up about 6.45 and told witness to lie on as he would bring her up a cup of tea. As he failed to do this, witness got up at 7.15 and found the fire lighted, but could not see deceased. Thinking he was in the blacksmith's shop she went there, as he usually boiled water for tea on the forge. Not being there, and assuming he had been called away, she returned to the house and called for him. Not getting any reply, she went round to the fowls' house and found the door fastened with a piece of cord from the inside. There was an open space in the door, and she saw the legs of deceased, but not being able to open the door, immediately rushed for assistance. Mr Philip Jones, farmer, who was outside the house, burst open the door and found deceased hanging from a beam. He at once cut down the body and ran for Dr Courtney. Her husband had never threatened to do away with himself and had no worry or trouble of any kind except his physical complaint. He had repeatedly talked about that as if it worried him, and on various occasions had promised to go to a doctor, but had never done so. - Mr P. Jones deposed that he was called at 20 minutes or half-past seven by MRS PRISCOTT. He found the fowl's house door tied from the inside. Bursting open the door he found deceased hanging from a beam with his feet touching the ground, and the body lying forward. He at once cut down the body and ran to Lynton for Dr Courtney. - Dr J. M. Courtney, who arrived about 8 o'clock, said life was extinct. There was a rope mark of great pressure at the front of the neck as if the weight of the body had fallen forward. The cause of death was strangulation. - P.S. Bulgin and P.C. Perriam stated that the height of the beam was 7 ft. 3 in. from the ground. The Coroner entered a verdict of "Suicide by Hanging."

North Devon Journal, Thursday 25 October 1928
PETROCKSTOWE - The North Devon "Man Hunt." A Tragic Ending: The Inquest. - The North Devon man hunt sensation (referred to in our last issue) concluded tragically on Thursday morning, when the wanted man, PERCIVAL CLAUDE LEWIS, 28, shot himself in a field in sight of some clay workers about half-a-mile from his home. - An Inquest was held in the Petrockstowe Reading Room on Friday evening, before the North Devon Coroner, Mr G.W. F. Brown, and a Jury of which Mr J. V. Hatherley was the Foreman. - SAMUEL LEWIS, the deceased's father, said that on the 15th inst. P.S. Philpotts and P.C. Conibear came to his house about 6.30 a.m. to ask if his son was in. Witness said he thought he was upstairs. When he was about half-way up his (witness's) son jumped out of the window. The Constable gave chase, but he got into the wood and about two hours later witness saw the deceased looking over the hedge of the field where witness was working. Witness thought he had a gun, and said, "Don't you shoot us." Deceased said, "I am going away to shoot myself," and then went off. Witness never saw him alive again. - In answer to the Coroner, witness said he did not know whether his son went to Stibb Cross auction on the 8th inst., but he was not home that day. - The Coroner: Did you know he drove a bullock away? - Witness: I don't know anything more about it than the man in the moon. No one in the place knew anything about it. His son got back early in the night. He did not know whether he had got any money in his possession after the 8th inst. - Replying to the Sergeant, witness said he knew his son bought some clothes and a new pair of leggings. Deceased did not pay for his keep - he "found himself." - The Coroner: Do you know why he should have hidden himself away like this? - Witness: Well, he knew he had done something wrong, and wanted to get away somehow. - P.S. Philpotts: I believe he had run away before? - Witness: Yes; he did in the Army. - It was three weeks before they got him then, wasn't it? - Yes. - Did he hide away then? - Yes, just the same as now. - You coaxed him in on that occasion and called the Police? - Yes. He added that deceased was normal and a "very good chap" when he was feeling all right and a good workman. He did not drink very much. He had never threatened to take his life, but had given him a lot of trouble. - The Gamekeeper's Testimony. - William Arthur Stacey, a gamekeeper in the employ of Lord Clinton, said he was on the North Devon Clay Company's line at the bottom of Hunting Moor Field, when he saw a man who proved to be deceased. He walked towards him, but was too far away to see his movements when he heard the report of a gun, which was very faint. Witness and others with him found the man dead, lying face to the ground, with the gun nearby. Charles Martin, another man, fetched the Police., who were not far away. Witness added that he, personally, had not seen deceased nor had he been looking for him at all before. - Dr Killard-Leavey, of Torrington, said he found a circular wound in deceased's left chest over the base of the heart, which had been penetrated by the charge. The wound was consistent with a wound from a gun fired at very close quarters. Death would certainly be instantaneous. - P.C. Lamble (Dolton) said he found that all the buttons of deceased's shirt were undone and his coat pulled back. There was no hole through the shirt. With help he removed the body to Town Farm. The gun (produced) was lying by the hedge. It had one empty cartridge in the left-hand barrel. A piece of string was tied in a loop through the trigger guard. Deceased must have put his foot in the loop, leant on the gun and fired. There was nothing in deceased's pockets and he was wearing a bowler hat, a short and an old morning coat, ragged in the shoulders, whipcord trousers and boots. - Charles Henry Ellis, of Eastwood Farm, Petersmarland, spoke to finding some food and boots missing from his premises and a hay loft had been made into a place to sleep. He had also missed a pair of whipcord trousers and his best bowler hat, an old felt one being hung up in place of it. Answering P.S. Philpotts, witness said he was working in his granary - as he was expecting the thresher - between 12.45 and 1.15 on Monday morning, and he then missed the gun. Witness had not got any cartridges; he did not keep any in his place and did not shoot. When deceased was working for witness, he used to go into the granary every day for corn for the horses and seemed to have known where the gun was, but could not have used it without buying his own cartridges. Witness was in bed ill most of this time. He identified the gun. - The Jury's verdict was that LEWIS died from a gunshot wound, self-inflicted and that he Committed Suicide rather than be captured by the Police. - "I think it is quite a right and just verdict," said the Coroner. In one way it is a satisfactory ending, although it is a sad ending to think that a young man of 28 should be driven to take his life to avoid being captured by the Police. It is very terrible. These young men do not seem to realise that if they work they are happier. This man simply did a day or two's work and then seemed to be tired of it. I suppose he found that taking this bullock and selling it was an easier way of making a living than by working for it. His father had evidently had a lot of trouble with him before. It was satisfactory to him that they were not holding an Inquest on anyone he might have slain, because it would appear he was a wild sort of person who will steal a gun in this way. As to the Police, their action has been splendid all through. They have done their best and I am glad no one has been hurt." - Supt. Gordon, of Okehampton, and P.S. Philpotts, Hatherleigh, represented the Devon Constabulary.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 29 November 1928
LLANTWIT MAJOR, SOUTH WALES - The Lynmouth Mystery Solved. The Inquest On MR C. BURGESS. - The mystery of the disappearance of a Lynmouth fisherman, MR CHAS. BURGESS, aged 45, has been solved. It will be remembered (as recorded in our last issue) that BURGESS disappeared on Friday November 2nd last. It was thought possible that he had fallen into the Lyn, which was in flood at the time, and dragging operations were carried out and beach and cliff thoroughly searched, but without result. Mrs Cecil Bevan kindly offered a reward for the recovery of the body. On Tuesday, November 20th, Mrs Bevan was informed by telephone that a body had been washed ashore on the Welsh Coast, which, according to the particulars of clothing and the amount of cash found on the body in question, coincided with that of MR C. BURGESS. Immediately steps were taken to identify the body, and MRS LEONARD (MR BURGESS'S sister) who resides at Cardiff, expressed the opinion that it was not that of her brother. On the following day MR NORMAN BURGESS, with whom the missing man had formerly lodged, not feeling quite satisfied as to whether his sister was in a position to identify, as she had not seen her brother for some years, and thinking it wise to proceed to Llantwit Major, did so, accompanied by Mr M. Clapp. On their arrival, MR N. BURGESS was closely questioned as to the clothing his brother was wearing at the time of his disappearance and what money he considered was in his possession. Upon this being given it was found to agree with the particulars of the body in question, and an Inquiry was at once held, the verdict being an open one, "Found Dead On Beach." - The Inquest. - At the Inquest before the South Wales Coroner, Mr David Rees, at the Town Hall, Llantwit Major, MR NORMAN BURGESS, of Middleham, identified the body as that of his brother by the clothing. Deceased had lived with him and his occupation was a boatman and fisherman. He was forty-five years of age, and unmarried, and had been missing since November 2nd last. The last time he was seen, as far as he could ascertain, was at 10.30 p.m. on that date, about half-way between the Harbour and his home, outside the Lyn Valley garage, on the Watersmeet-road, Lynmouth. The last person to see him was Mr Alan Groves. It appeared (witness continued) that he had told two other men who went herring fishing with him, John Marley and Wm. Sharp, that he was going home to supper. This arrangement, so far as witness could discover, was made a little before 10 p.m. High water being about nine o'clock on the date in question, it was necessary to put their fishing boat back, as the tide receded, to enable them to go out fishing next morning. With this intention, these two men got into a small punt for the purpose of getting on board the fishing boat somewhere about 10 o'clock. Marley, he understood, had fallen overboard, but was rescued by Sharp. Upon the boat and occupants landing on the beach at the back of the Quay Head, the Police met Marley near the Lyndale Bridge and saw him home. Witness had been informed that the Police asked Marley if anyone else was on the beach, to which he replied that Sharp was. On searching the beach the Constable found Sharp asleep in the punt. The next morning it was found that the motor-boat had not been unmoored. The following evening, as his (witness's) brother had not been home that day, the Police were informed and the River Lyn dragged as the river was in flood and the path home lay by the riverside. - On being questioned as to whether there was sufficient water to carry a body to sea, witness replied in the affirmative. Asked whether his brother was considered to be the worse for drink, witness said he understood he was. He (witness) was not at all satisfied, as someone must have seen him if he went to the Harbour to see if the boat was put back to half-tide or to low water. Referring to the body being that of his brother, witness explained that the deceased had been paid by Messrs. Campbell's Steamer Co. for landing passengers the sum of about £6. He had paid up his lodging money, and the £2 found on deceased belonged to J. Marley which he intended to pay him for a herring net that night; but deceased was heard to say in the Bar that as Marley was drunk he would pay him next morning. - At this stage the £2 notes were produced by the Police; also three coppers, a small spring, and a bit of pencil. - Thomas George, labourer, Llantwit Major, deposed to seeing a body one mile from the bench being washed ashore on the 20th of November, between 10.30 and 11 a.m., and reported it to the Coastguard Station. - P.S. Clesham stated that from information received he went to the beach at about 1.20 p.m. on the day in question, and saw the dead body of a man lying face downwards between boulders, minus legs. As far as he could judge the face would have been clean-shaven. There was a little hair on the left side of the head of a dark-brown colour. - Dr Frank Leigh said he was called by the Police-Sergeant to view the body, which was in an advanced stage of decomposition. The right leg was completely gone, as was also the left one with the exception of a small portion attached to the body. The face was unrecognisable. The thumb nail of the right hand was black and the abdomen was badly rent and the stomach lacerated, possibly due to coming into contact with rocks. It was impossible to say whether there had been foul play, as the body was so terribly knocked about and decomposed. By its appearance he considered the body had been in the water for about three weeks, which was consistent with the period the man had been actually missing. - The Coroner, in summing up the evidence, said no purpose could be served by adjourning the Inquiry. The evidence had been satisfactorily given, and pointed conclusively to the body being that of BURGESS. To say how he met with his death was a mystery and it was impossible for him to decide. The verdict would be an Open one - "Found Dead On The Beach." - The Funeral. - The coffin containing the body was conveyed by road to Taunton by Messrs. E. Morgan and Sons, undertakers, Bridgend. At Taunton it was met by Mr Witney Jones' hearse and conveyed to Lynmouth. On its arrival, the crew of the Lynmouth lifeboat carried it from Watersmeet-road to Middleham, the home of the deceased man, amidst scenes of great sorrow and sympathy. - The funeral took place on Saturday last, the service at St John's Church, Lynmouth and the interment at the Parish Church, Countisbury. The coffin of polished elm and plated fittings, was conveyed form the house to the Church by the following members of the lifeboat crew:- Messrs. G. S. Richards (Coxswain), W. J. Ward (Bowman), R. Burgess, W. Richards, W. Hawkins, A. Harvis, J. Groves, H. Litson, G. Litson, J. Marley, W. Darch, W. Charp, L. Somerwell, E. Smith and H. Rudal. The family mourners were Mr and Mrs Norman Burgess (brother and sister-in-law), Mr William Burgess (brother), Mr and Mrs G. Hicks (nephew and niece), Messrs. Horace and Cecil Burgess (nephews), Misses Minnie and Alice Crocombe and Mrs C. W. Richards (cousins), Mr Edward Burgess (brother-in-law), Mr and Mrs G. Sharp (sister and brother-in-law), Messrs. A. and W. Sharp and Mr George Sharp (cousins). - Deceased being a valued member of the Fire Brigade, his colleagues present were as follows: - Capt. T. Davey, S. Sheppard, E. Pugsley, A. Groves, G. Sharp, G. Reed and C. Jarvis. With flags at half-mast and with blinds drawn at houses along the route, the cortege passing was truly a touching spectacle. On the coffin was spread the Union Jack and the deceased's life-jacket and cap.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 20 December 1928
BARNSTAPLE - Sudden Death Outside Surgery. - There was a very sad occurrence at Barnstaple early on Tuesday morning. Feeling unwell, MR HARRY MOORE, of Newton Tracey, was motored into Barnstaple by a friend for the purpose of seeing his medical man, and he had only just arrived at the surgery of Drs. Dixey, Gompertz and Leavey, when he collapsed and died. A native of Exeter, MR MOORE until recently resided at Barnstaple, having been for many years foreman cutter in the employ of Shellard and Co., of High-street. A man of most genial disposition, he was held in high regard. MR MOORE was sixty-nine years of age. - At the Inquest conducted by the Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, at the North Devon Infirmary, yesterday, the widow, MRS HELEN TERRY MOORE, said her husband had had attacks of illness at various times for two years. His last attack was relieved by :Dr Leavey, and her husband thought he would have been relieved on Monday. The attack came on suddenly, so to save any delay her husband went in to see the doctor. - Mr Wm. Hodge spoke to driving the deceased to Barnstaple and said MR MOORE got out of the car one side and he the other. He (Mr Hodge) rang the bell of Dr Leavey's house and whilst walking up and down the pavement, MR MOORE remarked "I fell faint," and collapsed. Mrs Leavey promptly called her husband. - Dr Dixey stated that MR MOORE was quite dead when he saw him and a post-mortem examination showed death to be due to haemorrhage and shock. - P.C. Squires also gave evidence. - The Coroner said he had known MR MOORE a great number of years, as well as his father, MR ALBERT MOORE, and they were held in high regard. It was quite clear he had died from Natural Causes.

North Devon Journal, Friday 28 December 1928
GEORGE NYMPTON - Georgenympton Tragedy. The Inquest. - Mr G. W. F. Brown, Coroner for North Devon, conducted an Inquest on Saturday upon the body of MR JOHN ELWORTHY, the 22 years old son of MR J. ELWORTHY, of Broom House Farm, Georgenympton, who was found hanging from an apple tree in his father's orchard. - Mr Brown described the case as one of the saddest and most painful cases that had come under his notice. - MR FRED ELWORTHY gave evidence of the finding of the body and Constable Gerretty said he tried artificial respiration, but without effect. ELWORTHY got up on Saturday morning at the customary hour, and, with other members of the family, went about his work apparently quite as usual. Just after breakfast, when MR FRED ELWORTHY went out, he made the tragic discovery. The body was on once cut down and the Police and Dr Seal sent for. - No witness could assign any reason for the act, and the Coroner, in returning a verdict of "Suicide by Hanging, with not sufficient evidence to show the state of his mind," said it was a mystery. There was no evidence at all to show why he should do it; he had left no word and had been a very quiet, steady young man.

HARTLAND - Hartland inquest. - An Inquest was held by the N. Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, at North-street, Hartland, on Saturday afternoon, touching the death of MRS ELLEN HEADON, 60, of Shears Farm, Morwenstow, widow of MR WILLIAM HEADON. - MRS MARY COLWILL said her sister-in-law came to see her on Sunday, Nov. 25th. As she was about to go away they heard a fall and found deceased at the bottom of the stairs. She afterwards said she forgot the step on the landing. - Dr Frederick William White, locum for Dr Kay, who was called, said he saw deceased in bed about a quarter to eight on the 25th. She was in great pain and had difficulty in turning. Her heart was all right at that time. The following Tuesday pneumonia developed. She rallied for a time but had a relapse about two weeks ago and died on Friday morning. There was very little pneumonia of the left lung, nearly all being in the right. A verdict of "Death from Accidental Causes - heart failure from restricted respiration through pneumonia following a fall," was returned.

BARNSTAPLE - Fatal Fall At Swymbridge. - MRS SUSAN PARKHOUSE, widow of MR SAMUEL PARKHOUSE, market gardener, of the Village, Swymbridge, passed away at North Devon Infirmary, Barnstaple on Monday, following a fall at her house on the 18th instant. - At the Inquest on Wednesday, MR S. J. DALLING, grandson, stated that he was upstairs just after breakfast time when MRS PARKHOUSE, who had not been in the best of health, fell in the kitchen. Witness found her lying on her right side, and she said she thought she had broken her leg. Dr F. L. Thomas ordered her removal to the Infirmary. - Dr Joseph R. Pierre, House Surgeon at the Infirmary, stated that an X-ray examination on admission disclosed a fractured femur. MRS PARKHOUSE was fairly well on Saturday night, but collapsed next morning and died on Monday. Death was due to shock, old age and heart failure, consequent on the accident. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

HACKNEY, LONDON - Brauntonian's Tragic Death In London - The recovery of the body of MR JAMES ACKLAND, of Malmesbury-road, London, son of the late MR and MRS WILLIAM ACKLAND, of Knowle, Braunton, (whose tragic death was recorded in our last week's issue), led to an Enquiry at Hackney Coroner's Court, by Mr Edwin Smith (Coroner), who pronounced a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind." A post-mortem examination had revealed the fact that the deceased died from carbolic poisoning, and not from drowning, although the body was found in a lake in Victoria Park, London. - The interment took place at the City of London Cemetery, Ilford E. The principal mourners were the widow, Mr and Mrs Chas. Ackland (brother and sister-in-law) and Messrs. Wilfred and Harold (nephews). Floral tokens bore the following inscriptions:- In ever loving memory of my dear husband; In ever loving memory, from Charley and Nancy; From his sorrowing nephews, Wilfred and Harold; With deepest sympathy from Mrs Jones and Mrs Penaland; With deepest sympathy, from Mrs Bailey.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 3 January 1929
BARNSTAPLE - A Barnstaple Fatality. Elderly Man Knocked Down By A Car. - Mr T. A. R. Bencraft the Barnstaple Borough Coroner, conducted an Enquiry into the circumstances attending the death of MR WILLIAM JARMAN COATES, 63, of 62 Braunton Road, Barnstaple, who came into collision with a motor car at the end of the Barnstaple Long Bridge on Thursday evening, dying in the North Devon Infirmary on Friday. - The tragedy was particularly sad, MR COATES' son dying only a short while ago in the Institution. - The Jury empanelled were Messrs. J. B. Brown (Foreman), S. Turner, F. E. Palmer, J. W. Geen, W. Ridd, A. Ellis, W. J. Hill, and R. S. Cockram. The Coroner outlined the circumstances of the case. - MARJORIE M. COATES, a daughter of deceased said her father was a plumber. She last saw him alive on the Wednesday evening. She thought her father was going home from work when the accident occurred. Her father had a habit of walking with his head down for he had broken his ribs some two years previously. He was also a little hard of hearing. She should imagine that having regard to the state of the weather (raining heavily and blowing hard) deceased would have had his coat turned up at the neck. - The Driver's Evidence. - William Frederick Brayley, taxi cab proprietor, of 29 Newport Road, Barnstaple, said he was coming from Newport at about ten minutes to a quarter to five. He came along by the Athenaeum on his correct side, and sounded his horn . As he did so he heard another horn sounded by another car coming in over the Bridge. He slowed down to allow the car to pass in front of him. He was doing about ten miles an hour. When the other car has passed he proceeded very slowly because it was blowing and raining very hard. - "A Dark Object." - "Suddenly," Mr Brayley proceeded, "I saw a dark object right in front of the car - I could not see the man's face. I applied my brakes and pulled up in about half the length of the car - in about five feet. The front of the car knocked him. When I got out he was lying between the two back wheels." With assistance, the man was got out from under the car. He (witness) went to the bus station with is fare and was coming back to take deceased to the Infirmary, but when he returned the ambulance had come and he had been taken away. - By the Foreman: He stepped off the pavement by Mr Vicary's shop. - You had full lights on of course? - Yes, sir. - Mr J. Manley, (representing the deceased's family)(: Mr Brayley said in his statement that he saw a dark object in front of him. Were his lights lit at the time? - Yes, but the man was walking with his head down. - Inspector Leach (representing the Police): How many lights had you? - Two side-lamps and one head-lamp, the latter being on the side away from MR COATES. - Mr R. H. Harris, pensioner of 23 Congram's Row, Newport, said on the night in question he was standing in the door-way of the chemist's shop facing the Bridge. He saw a man coming in over the Bridge with his coat collar turned up and his hat down over his eyes. It was blowing and raining very hard. The man had his head down. He walked right off the pavement and came into contact with the car. He was struck by the wing of the car. Mr Brayley pulled up almost immediately. He did not know Mr Brayley's speed at all, but he heard him sound his hooter. He saw Mr Brayley slow down. Mr Brayley had three lights on. MR COATES was about seven feet from the path when he was struck. - Mr Manley: Mr Harris said MR COATES was about six or seven feet from the footpath. Surely Mr Brayley with his lights full on could have seen MR COATES. - The Coroner: That is a matter of opinion. - P.C. Bowden said in consequence of information received, he proceeded to the spot from the Albert Clock and saw the deceased lying on the footpath apparently badly injured. All the lights on the Square were on. The road was 26 feet 2 inches wide at the spot in question. It was impossible, owing to heavy rain to see the track of the car. The accident happened on Mr Brayley's correct side. - Dr Thomas Barnard Hodgson, the House Surgeon of the North Devon Infirmary, said that death was caused by suffocation, due to a collection of fluid on the chest, accelerated by shock. - The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death and exonerated Brayley from all blame. they extended sincere sympathy to the widow. - The Coroner said it was a particularly sad end, for deceased seems to have been walking with his head down. - Mr Balsdon on behalf of Mr Brayley tendered sincere sympathy to the relatives of the deceased.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 10 January 1929
ILFRACOMBE - Ilfracombe Cliff Tragedy. Death Of MR F. H. DAWKINS. - An Inquest was held at Ilfracombe on Friday, on FRANCIS HENRY DAWKINS, of 23 St Brannock's-road, Ilfracombe, aged 74, who fell over the cliffs at Broadoar Bay, Lee, on Thursday afternoon and died of his injuries at Ilfracombe Cottage Hospital. Mr G. W. F. Brown held the Inquiry. - Dr Arthur King stated he had warned MR DAWKINS many times to give up climbing because his heart was not in a fit condition, but he would not hear of it, saying it was "life" to him. Dr King further said that MR DAWKINS was "eternally on the cliffs climbing." Describing the injuries, Dr King said they included cuts and bruises on the head and face, and also a fracture of the left femur. Whilst his skull was not fractured, his nose was broken. He was just conscious when witness saw him after the accident, but he died of shock resulting from his injuries. - Witness was asked by the Coroner if he thought MR DAWKINS had a fainting fit which caused his fall and Dr King said undoubtedly such was the case. In fact, it surprised witness how long he had gone along without this happening. - MRS ENID FRANCES DAWKINS, a daughter-in-law, said MR DAWKINS was a barrister, but never practised and mentioned that he was a brother of General Dawkins, of the Royal Artillery. He was always very fond of climbing and in his younger days did so in Switzerland. - The Coroner said he understood he was one of the first men to ascend the Matterhorn. - Miss Betty Haig, of Lee, said MR DAWKINS called the previous afternoon and asked her to go with him to the cliffs, and they went to Broadoar Bay. Witness said MR DAWKINS had been making a cliff pass for some time by which to reach the beach, and she often used to go down with him. The previous day they had done a little work to the path and were not quite at the bottom, when MR DAWKINS inquired the time and on being told it was 10 minutes to three, said they should be going and started to ascend. Witness was several yards ahead. When nearly at the top of the cliff her companion, who had been talking to her, suddenly stopped. She heard him make an exclamation and collapse. She saw him lying back against the cliff and found he was unconscious. As he seemed to be in a safe position she ran for help, but on returning found MR DAWKINS had disappeared, having fallen over the ledge to the bottom of the cliff. Witness mentioned that MR DAWKINS had walked out to Lee from Ilfracombe, which is four or five miles distant. She had never known him experience any trouble before. - Walter E. Gilbert, of Lee, one of the helpers who responded to Miss Haig's call, estimated the distance of the fall at between 80 and 100 feet. - The Coroner said MR DAWKINS did not heed the warning which had been given. His heart must have given him trouble as he was ascending the cliff and he must have rolled over the cliff edge after Miss Haig had left him to get help. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was recorded. - The funeral of MR F. H. DAWKINS took place at Dolton on Monday. Prior to the service taking place at Dolton, a service was held in the Ilfracombe Parish Church, conducted by the Vicar (Rev. H. M. Johnson, M.A.). The interment was made in the Dolton Churchyard (this being the place where deceased's wife was buried.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 10 January 1929
BARNSTAPLE - Barnstaple Suicide. Master Carpenter Found Hanging. - It was a great shock to a large number of townspeople of Barnstaple to learn on Thursday that MR T. A. BLACKMORE had been found hanging dead in his workshop at the back of his residence, 96 Pilton-street, Barnstaple. - A well-known and respected master carpenter and undertaker, MR THOMAS ALBERT BLACKMORE was 67 years of age, and leaves a widow, MRS MARTHA BLACKMORE, to mourn her loss. - The Inquest. - The Inquest was held at his residence before the Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, on Friday. - The widow, MRS MARTHA BLACKMORE, said for some time her husband had been worrying himself considerably about his business falling off. She knew he had been worrying about something because he had been sleepless lately. - The Coroner: He has been drinking rather heavily hasn't he? - I don't know that he has. I have never seen him taking anything. If he has it has been behind my back. - Do you fancy it has been done behind your back? - I don't know. - You know that a nearly emptied whisky bottle was found close to him? - No, I did not know it. They (the Police) told me nothing about it. - What time on the date in question did you last see him alive? - I should think it would be about eleven o'clock. - Where was he going then? - He came and brought in my "Sunday Circle" and that was the last time he spoke to me. He put it on the table and said:- "I have brought your "Sunday Circle." He then went straight up to the shop and I said "you'll be here now won't you," and he said "yes." - You have your dinner early as a rule? - Yes at 12 o'clock. What time did you call him to come into dinner? - About quarter to twelve. - There was no answer from the shop was there? - No - and I had my dinner and went out about half-past twelve. I asked a neighbour if she had seen him and she said he was gone upward to the shop. I went up to the shop and there he was hanging. - In your opinion he was dead? - I believe he was he looked like it. I sent a message to Mr Mitchell at the Post Office and he came across. - Fred Mitchell, ex-P.C. at Torquay, and now of Pilton Post Office, said he received a request from Mrs Symons at 12.45 p.m., and on going to the workshop he found MR BLACKMORE hanging by the neck by a piece of wire, which he took to be electric light cable (produced). He appeared quite dead, and with the assistance of Mrs Symons, he untied the wire from the rafter. The body was still quite warm and he applied artificial respiration. There was a bottle on the bench labelled "Scotch Whiskey," and a wine glass and jug of water. There was a small drop in the glass and it appeared to be neat. At the end of the bench were a number of bottles (six), all smelling of whisky. He should imagine the deceased sat on the bench first and tied the piece of wire around the rafter and put the noose around his neck and slipped off the bench. His toes were touching the sawdust on the floor, but the whole of his weight was on his neck. - The Coroner: It has been alleged deceased was drinking heavily. Do you know? - I have no knowledge as to that. He was a customer of mine, but I never suspected that sort of thing. - Detective-Constable Wilshire corroborated the last witness, adding that immediately below the position of the cable was a wet portion of sawdust, which was also spilt whisky. - Dr K. G. W. Saunders said he arrived at about 1.15 p.m., and deceased was quite dead, having been dead about an hour. There was a mark around the neck as of tight ligature. There was no sign of violence on the body. Death was caused by asphyxia by hanging. The deceased's breath and mouth smelt of alcohol. He should say that having regard to sleeplessness and lack of work his condition of mind amounted to unsoundness. - The Coroner returned a verdict of Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 24 January 1929
PLYMSTOCK - Former Barum Trader's End. - A verdict of "Suicide by coal gas poisoning" was returned at the Inquest on Tuesday, on WILLIAM HENRY TILSTON, aged 54, manager of the South Devon Concrete Manufacturing Company's Works, at Pomphlett, near Plymouth, who was found dead in his office on Monday morning. The deceased was well-known in North Devon also, having formerly been sales manager of the Manufactured Concrete Works at Barnstaple.

BARNSTAPLE - Barnstaple Servant's Ghastly Death. Burnt Through The Striking Of A Match. - The townspeople of Barnstaple were on Saturday horror-stricken in regard to the terrible death of MISS CAROLINE MAY BROWNSCOMBE, a domestic servant in the employ of Mrs A. G. Dalling, wife of Mr Charles Dalling, coal merchant, of Yard House, Rolle Quay, Barnstaple. The deceased, who was 24 years of age, evidently struck a match whilst in bed at 2.15 a.m. on Saturday for the purpose of seeing the time. Her night dress caught on fire and she sustained severe burns, expiring at 7.15 a.m. the same morning at the North Devon Infirmary. - The inquest was held on Monday at the North Devon Infirmary before the Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft. - MR WILLIAM RICHARD BROWNSCOMBE, a brother of deceased, identified the body. - Mrs Amy Gill Dalling, deceased's employer, said MISS BROWNSCOMBE had been living with her for nearly two years. Her health had been very good until just recently, when she seemed off colour. On Friday morning she did not get up, and on the nursemaid telling her (witness) that she was ill, witness went to her bedroom to find her rather depressed. Witness sent for Dr Jonas, who arrived before 9 a.m., and advised that MISS BROWNSCOMBE should stay in bed for a day or two to see the effect of the medicine he had prescribed. She (witness) took deceased something to read, and last saw her at 8 p.m. in the evening, when she seemed rather more cheerful. At about 2.15 a.m. her little son came running in to her (witness) and said MISS BROWNSCOMBE was making strange noises in her room. She went immediately into the room and deceased was like a living torch; "the whole of her appeared to be on fire." She rushed over to the girl and threw a mat around her head. She rubbed her hair, which was burning, with her hands and turned over the blankets and sheets, which were also burning, and so put the fire out. She then told the girl to get back to bed, and said that they would get help for her. - In answer to the Coroner, Mrs Dalling said her hands were burned slightly in the attempt to put out the fire. Deceased's nightdress, the witness stated, was of calico, not flannelette. After the fire had been put out MISS BROWNSCOMBE seemed to be suffering very much from shock. Mr Dalling immediately telephoned for the doctor, and afterwards she was removed by car to the North Devon Infirmary. When the doctor arrived the girl said she had done it by lighting a match to see if it was time to take her medicine. On the chair beside her bed was a box of matches, a timepiece, and a glass and medicine. The electric light switch was just inside the door, two or three steps from the bed. - Dr H. C. Jonas said he had sent the girl some medicine, which she would have to take in the middle of the night - every four hours. When called on the night of the tragedy he found the girl in bed. She was very badly burnt and had no nightdress on. The burns were very extensive, but so far as could be seen they were not of a very severe degree. The extent of the surface burned, however, would make it a very grave injury. He sent her to the North Devon Infirmary because that was the only possible place where she could be properly dressed. The girl was suffering greatly from shock. Her hair had been badly burned and the face was scorched badly. With the assistance of two Constables witness took her to the Infirmary himself. Death was due to burns and shock. - Dr Hodgson (House Surgeon at the North Devon Infirmary) corroborated and said the girl made no statement. Speech was inarticulate. He should say two-thirds of the body were involved in the burns. - The Coroner, summing up, said it was a very sad end. There was no doubt about the fact that the girl died from burns and shock sustained through the lighting of a match by herself in the bedroom. They all sympathised greatly with the family in their bereavement. He returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

North Devon Journal, Thursday 31 January 1929
GREAT TORRINGTON - Torrington Casual Ward Tragedy. Mystery Of Dead Man's Identity. - At the Inquest at Torrington on Saturday on a man who, giving the name of ARTHUR GAYDON, aged 45, was admitted to the casual ward there, was taken ill during the night and died, it was stated that efforts to establish the man's identity had met with no success. - He had no papers on him to show who he was, or whence he came, other than a small pocket diary, on which had been entered the names of various towns he had evidently passed through on tramp, and a few surnames of people which, it was thought, he might either have met or himself used in his travellings. - Deceased had the usual tramp's outfit, and his silver watch bore the name "Symons and Son, Launceston," on the dial. On deceased's left forearm there were tattooed a soldier in uniform and a man's head in slouch hat, with the initials "A.G." - John Anthony, tramp-major at the Institution, said GAYDON told him that he was last at that Institution in 1923 and that he had served in the Army. The Master, Mr C. H. Cory, had, however, been unable to trace anyone of that name having been admitted to the Institution at that time. He understood that the man had said he served in the Army with the late Master of the Institution, Mr Harrison, who P.S. Brewer said was at one time in the Lancashire Fusiliers and then in the King's Own Loyal Lancashire Regt. Inquiries at the Record Office up to the present had elicited no reply. - Dr A. B. Pugh said a post-mortem examination revealed that the lungs were congested and inflamed and it was quite possible that the man's statement that he had been gassed in the war was true. The cause of death was sudden heart failure, resulting from pneumonia and pleurisy with effusion. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned, the Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, remarking that everything possible seemed to have been done for the man.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 21 February 1929
BARNSTAPLE - North Devon Motor Cycling Collision. Inquest Adjourned. - An Inquiry into the circumstances of the death of JOHN ALEXANDER CHANTER SNELL, who died at the North Devon Infirmary on Saturday, was conducted by the Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, on Monday. Mr Stanley Lile was elected Foreman of the Jury. - The Coroner, outlining the facts, said that the deceased, aged 25, somewhere on the road between High Bickington and Atherington, came into collision with another motor-cycle ridden by Charles Stevens of Ebberly. Both appeared to be badly injured, and were brought to the Institution on Thursday evening. Deceased was found to have sustained a fractured skull, and never regained consciousness. He did not propose to go into the whole of the details at present, because Stevens was too badly injured to be interviewed by the Police. - MR WILLIAM GEORGE SNELL, of Portsmouth Arms Hotel, brother of deceased, said both deceased and himself worked upon their father's farm. He saw his brother last about 7 p.m. on Thursday evening, when he told him he was going to Cranford, near Torrington. Witness understood that deceased left very soon afterwards. He was riding a 3 ½ h.p. Raleigh. In answer to the Coroner witness said his brother was a careful rider. He had ridden with him many times, and added that he had been riding five or six years, and was in quite good health. - The Coroner said the accident happened near the New Inn Cottage, St Giles, but witness did not know the spot. His brother had ridden over that road many times, in fact only the night before. - Dr J. A. Dale, House Surgeon of the North Devon Infirmary, said deceased was admitted into the Institution at 11.40 p.m. on 14th February and received immediate attention. He had two fractures, one on the left frontal bone, and the other at the base of the skull. Both were very dangerous. He had never recovered consciousness and died on Saturday at 7.30 a.m. The cause of death was a fractured skull and internal haemorrhage. It was really a hopeless case. - In answer to the Coroner, witness said he believed deceased's head had come in contact with the ground. - The Inquest was adjourned until 3 p.m. at the Guildhall on Tuesday, March 19th, to enable the witness Stevens to attend.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 21 February 1929
LITTLEHAM (NEAR BIDEFORD) - North Devon Woman's Fatal Fall. - At the Inquest concerning the death of MRS BESSIE NORMAN, wife of MR HARRY N. NORMAN, farmer, of Higher Webbs, Littleham, it was stated that deceased, aged 63, appeared to bed in her usual health on Sunday, although once during the afternoon complained of being a little giddy. About 9.45 p.m. the same night, he went to his wife's bedroom to say "Good night," and had just got outside the door when he heard a scream and other noise and rushing out found her huddled up at the bottom of the stairs. She was quite unconscious when picked up, and died early next morning. Dr E. J. Toye, of Bideford, said he found she had a fracture of the left forearm and bruising on the side of her head. A post mortem examination revealed a very large haemorrhage into the brain, which was probably the cause of her fall, and not the fall causing the haemorrhage. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned. - Mr G. W. F. Brown conducted the inquiry.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 7 March 1929
BIDEFORD - Newton St Petrock Shooting Tragedy. Brother's Ordeal. Inquest At Bideford. - A shooting accident at Newton St Petrock had a tragic sequel at Bideford Hospital late on Saturday evening, when ALFRED JOHN SLADE, of Ford Farm, Newton St Petrock, aged 29, succumbed to injuries received. - SLADE, a young married farmer, was the son of MR J. SLADE, who represents the parish of Newton St Petrock on Bideford Board of Guardians, and Rural District Council. He had gone out on a rabbit shooting expedition with his younger brother on the previous day. The brothers were, it is understood, getting through a hedge, and as the gun, which was loaded, was being handed by the one to the other, it exploded into the right shoulder of the deceased, who received very severe injuries. He was removed to Bideford Hospital, where his condition was found to be critical, and despite every attention he died the following day, as stated. The tragedy has caused a profound sensation throughout the district, and the greatest sympathy is felt for the young widow. - The Inquest. - At the Inquest held at the Hospital on Monday evening by the North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, a statement of the sad occurrence given by the deceased on the Saturday morning before he died, was produced by P.C. Cotton. - The statement was read as follows:- "On Friday I was shooting at Galsworthy Farm, Buckland Brewer, in the occupation of John Andrew Fishleigh. There were three of us together, myself, John Andrew Fishleigh and my brother, HAROLD WILLIAM SLADE. I was on one side of the hedge with my gun, and Mr Fishleigh was on the other side. The ferret was working a rabbit in a burrow and we could not get it out. Mr Fishleigh commenced digging away the hedge on his side, endeavouring to get at the ferret. When I put my gun on the ground I did not take the cartridges out of the breach, but put both hammers over to safety. We eventually secured the ferret and my brother picked my gun up from the ground and rested it on top of the hedge, muzzle facing towards me. I picked the gun up by the muzzle and pulled it towards me, and I suppose the trigger must have caught in a branch or the root of a tree, pulling the trigger back and discharging one of the cartridges and the charge penetrated my right arm just above the elbow." - HAROLD WILLIAM SLADE said he handed over two rabbits to his brother, who then asked him to hand over the gun. Before picking up the gun he took particular notice that it was uncocked and laid it across the hedge away from his brother and Mr Fishleigh. He went back for a rabbit and next heard the report and his brother's cry. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said he could reach the top of the hedge, but it was higher on the other side. - John Andrew Fishleigh said the brother rested the gun at an angle on the top of the hedge. Deceased and he had been talking together, and as he (witness) stooped to pick up his gun from the ground he heard a report, and asked deceased what he was firing at. He next heard deceased cry out "Oh, Jack, my arm," and looked up to find blood streaming from his arm. The hedge was six or seven feet high from their side and deceased would have had to have climbed up half-way to reach the gun. - In reply to the :Coroner, witness agreed that deceased might have caught hold of the muzzle of the gun and pulling at it with a jerk loosened the trigger. - Dr Gibson said there were severe wounds in deceased's right arm and the bone was fractured in two places. The wad of the shot was in the arm, showing that the discharge was at very short range. They suggested amputation of the arm at the first, but they were told to save the arm if possible. Gas-gangrene set in, and they had little chance after that, although the amputation of the arm was effected, and death occurred about 10 p.m. on Saturday evening, from gas-gangrene caused by gunshot. - The Coroner said it was a sad ending to what had probably been a pleasant day's sport. Deceased evidently must have taken the gun which his brother had placed on the hedge and pulled it towards him and catching in a root or ground ivy must have pulled the trigger back and, being a re-bounding lock, it flew back and discharged the cartridge. His verdict was one of "Accidental Death," and their sympathy was extended to the family and especially to his brother and Mr Fishleigh, who must have been terribly shocked.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 14 March 1929
ILFRACOMBE - Shooting Tragedy At Ilfracombe. American's Suicide In Hotel Bar. - The North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, held an Inquest at the Tyrell Cottage Hospital, Ilfracombe, on Saturday, on SAMUEL RICHARD PARKER, aged 76, of 27 Oxford Grove, Ilfracombe. - The widow stated that deceased before his retirement was the proprietor of a motor business in America. He had a son and daughter in America by a former marriage. After breakfast on Friday he went out, saying he was going to the "Shelter" to read his newspaper. - The Coroner: Had he been depressed lately? - Witness: Yes, he had been expecting financial letters for some days, but they did not arrive. Witness added that when her husband went out she suggested she should go with him for a walk, but he replied, "No, I shall be back in a quarter of an hour." - Did he ever threaten to take his life? - No, I never heard him say anything about taking his lie. We were on the most affectionate terms. He had an idea of going back to America. He said: "I may go on Wednesday. I have been to see about several boats. - A letter was produced and this, it was stated, deceased had received on Friday from his daughter. - The Coroner (after perusing the letter): Did he see that letter? - Witness: Yes, he asked me to read it to him and after that he seemed depressed. - Another letter was produced which witness said she had found that morning in a writing pad. It was in a sealed envelope and addressed to "MRS PARKER." The Coroner, after looking at it, observed: "He must have written that after the letter from his daughter came." - The Coroner: Was he in financial difficulties? - Witness: His money was in stocks and shares and also in Mexican oils, and I think some of them must have gone down. - The Coroner (holding the letter deceased had written to his wife): He says, "I cannot live on like this." What does he mean by that? - Witness: He had not been having any allowance lately. He was disappointed that morning that nothing came. He expected the money that particular morning. - James Bushen, boatman, said he saw deceased on the beach, near the harbour about 12.55 p.m. He asked another boatman what time it was. On his way home witness again saw deceased near the lifeboat slip. He took something out of his pocket and witness heard the report of a firearm. Witness then saw that the man had fired with a revolver into the ground. Witness was quite near. - The Coroner: Did he say anything to you. Witness: Not then. Didn't you think it rather an unusual thing that a man should suddenly pull a revolver from his pocket and discharge it? - He looked all right to me. I had never seen him before. After a little while he said, "Are there any gulls here?" I say: "There are plenty down over if you want to fire at the gulls." I don't know where he went. - Frederick Bucknell, landlord of the Crown Hotel, said that about three or four years ago deceased came into the bar regularly, but lately had come in only about once a month. He would just have one glass of beer. On Friday he arrived about 12.30 p.m., and remained about twenty minutes. He had one glass of ale and sat down and read a picture paper. He left, returned about ten minutes past one and asked for the loan of the table as he wanted to write some letters. He then wrote for about half an hour. - Witness, in reply to the Coroner, said deceased did not go out and post any letters, nor were any letters found on him. He probably burnt what he had written as he was sitting near the fire. - Proceeding, witness said: Deceased rose from his seat, presumably to go out and said "Good-bye." I was behind the bar. He turned to face a mirror, and at the same time took from his pocket a revolver and placed it to his head. I said, "Good, God, stop it!" and before I could get very far he fired and fell at my feet. - Witness further stated that deceased appeared to be rational. - Dr Soltau deposed that he was called by telephone to the Crown Hotel, where he found deceased lying on the floor in a pool of blood. There was a bullet wound, fired at close quarters, behind the right temple, and a smaller exit wound just by the left temple. The bullet had passed through the brain. Deceased was unconscious and died soon after admission to the Cottage Hospital. - The widow was asked by the Coroner if she knew her husband had a revolver. - She replied that she saw the revolver for the first time about three years ago. She told her husband she was afraid of it and locked it away. Deceased had said that he carried the revolver in America for protection. - The Coroner, in returning a verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind," said deceased was, apparently, worried about the non-receipt of a letter from America. The firing of the revolver on the beach was an extraordinary act, but no doubt it was done to see if the cartridges were good. Although deceased carried a revolver he was not registered.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 21 March 1929
BARNSTAPLE - North Devon Motor Cycling Fatality. A Mysterious Affair. - At Barnstaple Guildhall on Tuesday afternoon, the Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, and a Jury resumed the Inquest on JOHN ALEXANDER CHANTER SNELL, 25, son of the licensee of the Portsmouth Arms Hotel, who died in the North Devon Infirmary, Barnstaple, on February 16th from a fractured skull caused in a motor collision on the High Bickington and Torrington-road. Deceased was riding a motor-cycle on February 14th between High Bickington and Hatherleigh, when he came in contact with another motor-cycle ridden by Charles H. Stevens, of Ebberley. The latter was injured and the Inquest had been adjourned for his attendance. Inspector Leach, Devon Constabulary, was present. - Frederick James Dymond, farm hand, of Yarnscombe, stated that at 6.30 p.m. on February 14th he met a motor-cyclist at a road leading to Moortown Farm. The motorist, who said he was going to Ebberley, told him he could not get his lamp to burn nor his engine to go. Witness helped to light the lamp, and the machine carried a very good light when witness left. Witness called the rider's attention to the fact that the rear light was out. He could not identify the motor-cyclist. - Charles Gerald Shopland, farm worker, said a motor cyclist, presumably SNELL, passed him near Ebberley Chapel, about a quarter of a mile from where the accident happened, riding at about 15 miles an hour, and having a good light. It was about 7.25 p.m. - John Babb said that while sitting in New Inn Cottage he heard a motor-cycle pass and just after he heard a crash. Witness found two motor-cycles lying in the road with the respective riders near by. He assisted the deceased and Mr Stevens, the rider of the other bicycle, and then went and telephoned for a doctor. - P.C. James said the front of both machines was damaged, pointing to a head-one collision. The road was 17 ft. wide, straight, with a clear view of 90 yards in one direction and 60 yards in the other. The surface was fairly good, and there were no signs of skidding. He could form no opinion why the accident happened. - Electing to give evidence, Charles Henry Stevens, aged 49, of Ebberley, the rider of the other bicycle, said he had been to Moortown on the night in question. He met a young man who was riding a bicycle without a light. He thought the young man taller than Dymond. both witness's front and rear lamps were lit. Just by the cottage he stopped his motor-cycle, as he intended to call at the Cottage. He saw the light of a motor cycle approaching when it was 50 yards away. When nearer to witness the light seemed to take a direct turn for him, and witness did not remember anything afterwards. He suggested that frozen snow might have caused MR SNELL'S bicycle to skid. - The Coroner said it was a mysterious affair that there should have been a collision on a good road seventeen feet wide. A theory was that one cyclist had no light and probably was riding and that the other had not sufficient light to see him, and was probably riding too fast. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," with no one to blame.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 4 April 1929
BIDEFORD - The Bideford Lorry Fatality. Driver Exonerated. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at the Inquest at Bideford, on Wednesday, on SAMUEL BAKER, aged 75, an old-age pensioner, who was instantly killed through being run over by a petrol lorry in Torrington-street, Bideford, the previous day. The driver was exonerated from blame. - Mrs Tithecott, a neighbour, who looked after MR BAKER, said he was totally blind and very deaf, and more or less crippled since he was knocked down some years ago. He walked with two sticks. - Charles Bowden Williams, of 34 Rosebery-avenue, Plymouth, the driver of the lorry, said he had dropped down to low gear to enter the narrow Torrington-street and was travelling about four miles an hour. He never saw anything of BAKER, who was shaded by a lamp-post and the first he saw was two sticks go into the gutter in front of his rear wheel. He blew his horn and swerved the lorry, at the same moment seeing BAKER, all of a heap, pitch in front of him. He braked and stopped instantly, but felt the near side wheel rise over some obstacle, and, jumping from the lorry at once, found BAKER underneath with his face just a few inches from the wheel. He was dead. Witness said he had been driving for the Shell-Mex Company for five years, but altogether had driven cars between 15 and 16 years, and had never before had an accident. - Oliver Hart, an eye-witness of the mishap, said BAKER made a dive right across the street, and the driver of the lorry had not the least chance of avoiding him. The most expert driver in the world could not have saved him. The lorry was going very slowly and witness heard the horn sounded. BAKER was rather a venturesome man in crossing streets. - Dr Littlewood said the skull was extensively crushed, which was the cause of death, and there were other injuries. - The Jury, of which Mr E. Leonard was Foreman, questioning the fact that the accident occurred at 11.50 a.m. and the body was not seen by a doctor until 1 o'clock, Police-Sergt. Lane said he telephoned all the doctors in Bideford, including the Hospital, but could not get hold of one until they got in touch with Dr Littlewood. It was an awkward time, when the doctors were all apparently attending patients. It was evident, however, the man was dead when witness saw the body at ten minutes to twelve. - The North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, agreed it was evident it was a pure accident, and that there was no blame attaching in any way to the driver, who approached the narrow street in a very reasonable manner at about four miles an hour, when the old man suddenly stepped off the pavement right in front of the lorry. - Mr T. Oerton, junr., Bideford, on behalf of the Shell-Mex Company, expressed sympathy with the relatives and friends, and said the Company would, if it was any assistance, be quite prepared to be responsible for any expenses up to £10.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 4 April 1929
BARNSTAPLE - Fatal Motor Cycling Tragedy. Barnstaple Man The Victim. - A motor-car driven by Mr Thos. Mills, of Battersea and a motor-cycle ridden by MR ALBERT HARRY VICTOR YEO, of Barnstaple (with Mr Albert J. Thorne riding pillion) collided with tragic results on the main road near Yelland Cross, Instow, on Good Friday evening. Sustaining grave injuries, MR YEO was conveyed to the North Devon Infirmary, where he passed away at 9.45 on Saturday night. Employed as a coach trimmer at Messrs. Prideaux's Motor Works, Bear-street, Deceased, aged 31, was the youngest son of MRS YEO, of Yeo Vale (formerly of the Ebberly Arms, Bear-street), for whom general sympathy is expressed. - At Tuesday's Inquest, before the Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, JOHN YEO, said deceased, his brother, was riding a Royal Enfield motor-cycle and had ridden a motor-cycle for about five years. - Albert John Thorne spoke to meeting at Appledore, YEO, who offered to bring him to Barnstaple. They stopped at Bideford, got some carbide, lit the lamp and had a couple of drinks, but they were both quite sober. They reached Yelland Cross about 7.30 and he (witness) saw the lights of a car approaching. He heard a crash and found himself on a grassy bank by the side of the road, having apparently been thrown over YEO. Witness sustained a broken finger and injuries to his thigh and knee. YEO was travelling at about twenty-five miles an hour and was on his proper side. - Thomas Mills, 21, of Battersea, said he was motoring from Barnstaple to Bideford at twenty miles an hour, as the road was strange to him, and was driving about two feet from the near-side hedge. He saw the light of a motor-cycle approaching and suddenly there was a crash, and the steering wheel was forced from his hand, his car coming to rest by the bank. He went to YEO'S aid and accompanied him in a passing motor-car to Hospital. His car was damaged on its off side. He should imagine the motor-cycle was going fairly fast to turn the car. - Herbert Victor Gibbs and George Mills, who were in the motor car, gave corroborative evidence. - Dr Dale, House Surgeon at the Infirmary, said deceased had a compound fracture of the right thigh bone, his knee-cap was fractured, and also both bones in the lower part of the leg were broken. - P.C. Salter stated that later the driver of the car pointed out some skid marks on the road, which, he stated were made by the front wheels of the car. Those marks were ten feet from the left hedge. The road at the point of the collision was 22 ft. to 23 ft. From the skid marks, the car would seem to have been occupying about 10 ft. 6in. on its proper side. From the direction of Barnstaple there was a clear vision of 65 yards, and from the direction of Bideford 100 yards. - The Coroner said his remarks might not apply to this case, but there was an old saying that it was the pace that killed and he was afraid today that aphorism had a new application. It was difficult to know how that accident had happened. There was plenty of room for YEO to have passed on his proper side of the road, and the only explanation he could see was that he was going too fast in the circumstances round the bend. It was no good him telling people of the dangers of riding fast on their motor-cycles; they would do it as long as the motor-cycles were made to go the pace. He might as well save his breath, but there was undoubtedly very great danger in riding so fast as people were accustomed to upon the roads. - The Jury, of which Mr Darke was Foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and no one to blame. - Mr R. E. C. Balsdon concurred in the verdict on behalf of the family, and sympathised with the three young men whose holiday had met with such a tragic interruption. They thanked Mr Fry for conveying deceased to the Institution, the Matron, Dr Shaw and everyone for all they had done.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 18 April 11929
BICKINGTON - Inquest On Bickington Infant. - Mr G. W. F. Brown, the North Devon Coroner, conducted an Inquest at Bickington on Tuesday evening, into the circumstances of the death of a nine-months-old child. The child's mother, CLARA ANNIE COATES, said she went out to work by day and on Saturday she was called home because the child was ill. A doctor was sent for and prescribed for the child, who appeared to get better, but died early the next morning. - Answering the Coroner, the mother stated she had no allowance for the child and it was not insured. - Nurse Martin, District Nurse, said the child appeared to be in a very bad convulsion and she attended to it. - Dr Killard Leavey, of Barnstaple, said there was nothing definite to show the cause of death, and the stomach and organs had been sent for analysis. - The Inquest was adjourned for a fortnight for the result of an analysis of the stomach and organs, the medical evidence of a post-mortem examination not revealing any definite cause of death.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 25 April 1929
BARNSTAPLE - Gassed At Barnstaple. Engineer's Sad End. - MR GEORGE ARTHUR BEER, a married man, aged 65 years, of King Edward-street, Barnstaple, and an engineer at the Derby Lace Factory, was found dead in his workshop at the factory on Saturday afternoon. The discovery was made by another employee, who used a ladder to get into the room, and found deceased suffering from gas poisoning. Dr Sanders and P.C's Corney and Mitchell tried artificial respiration, but without effect. MR BEER had been an esteemed employee at the Factory from boyhood, and his sad end is generally deplored. - The Inquest was conducted by the Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, on Monday, at the residence of deceased. - MRS ANNIE L. BEER, the widow, said some time ago her husband and herself disagreed, and lived apart, but since September last had lived together quite comfortably. For some time deceased had been attended by Dr Gibbs for his nerves and blood pressure. He had complained of terrible pains in the head and had said two or three times that he would go mad with it. On Saturday he ate a good breakfast and left home about 7.55 a.m. He did not complain and seemed to be then quite all right. That was the last time witness saw him alive. - Mr William Henry Aze, over-looker in the lace mill, said he saw deceased about 8.10 on Saturday morning. Deceased said that he had terrible pains in the head and witness told him to see a doctor, and he answered that he was going to. Witness saw him again later, but did not speak to him. He was then going towards his shop. - Mr William Gammon, engine driver at the factory, said MR BEER of late had not been very well. On Saturday morning he found deceased had not left his keys at the Lodge and on inquiry he found he had not been home. Witness thereupon went back to the factory, got a ladder and looking in the window of deceased's workshop saw MR BEER lying on his back on a bench. Witness then burst open the door. The room was quite full of gas, and a piece of rubber tubing (produced) was attached to a gas jet, whilst the other end was under deceased's right nostril. The gas was fully on. A piece of sacking used for packing lace was wrapped around him. Witness thought there had been no movement whatever after he had laid down. He then telephoned for Dr Sanders and the Police, and artificial respiration was applied for forty minutes. - Dr Kenneth G. W. Sanders said Dr Gibbs had attended MR BEER, who suffered from nerves, pains in the head and giddiness. Witness was called to the Lace Factory and found the deceased on the ground, and the Police applying artificial respiration; but after some time this was found hopeless. Life had been extinct for about an hour. In his opinion, deceased was of unsound mind. Death was due to asphyxia from coal gas poisoning. - P.C. F. W. Mitchell also gave evidence. - The Coroner said it was a very sad case indeed. It was quite evident that MR BEER took his own life, and he could only return a verdict of "Death by Coal Gas Poisoning, Self Administered, whilst of Unsound Mind." He thought all would deeply sympathise with the widow and relatives in their terrible trial. - The interment was made in the Barnstaple Cemetery, yesterday, Rev. H. W. Fuller officiating. The principal mourners were Mr and Mrs H. Goodenough (son-in-law and daughter), Misses W. and E. Galliver (grandchildren), Mr and Mrs J. Essery (brother-in-law and sister-in-law), Miss M. Essery and Mr A. Essery (niece and nephew). The bearers, fellow-employees, were Messrs. C. Blight, J. Ovey, B. and J. Biddle, W. Lewis, C. McLeod, Courtney and Stanbury. Beautiful floral tributes were:- In ever-loving memory of dear father, from his sorrowing children at home and abroad; Arthur and Stella; a friend; Bill (India), Winnie and Eva; Mr and Mrs Jas. Essery and family; Mr and Mrs Bament; The Derby Lace Factory.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 2 May 1929
BICKINGTON - Bickington Child's Death. - At the adjourned Inquest on Tuesday, at Bickington, into the circumstances of the death of the nine-months-old child of CLARA ANNIE COATES, the North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, said the analysis of the stomach and organs had not revealed the cause of death in any way, so they could only return to Dr Killard Leavey's theory, that death was caused through asphyxia, due to convulsions. He returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

North Devon Journal, Thursday 9 May 1929
ILFRACOMBE - Ilfracombe inquest. "Suicide Whilst Of Unsound Mind." - The North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, conducted an Inquest at the Wildercombe Nursing Home on Friday afternoon, concerning the death of a patient, MISS KATHLEEN MAUD SCATCHARD, who died on Friday morning, about nine a.m., from the effects of swallowing a fatal dose of salts of lemon. - The first witness, MRS AGNES MAUD SCATCHARD, stated that she was the mother of deceased, and resided at 86 Chambercombe-road, Ilfracombe. She identified the body as that of her daughter, whose age was 25 years. Replying to the Coroner, witness said that her daughter had been ill for some time, suffering from nerves, and acting on advice she went to the Nursing Home about the 21st April. Witness had not seen her daughter since she left her home at Chambercombe-road. Her daughter had no trouble whatever. She had been highly strung from a child. Deceased had never threatened to take her life, and witness could not understand what made her daughter take her life. There was nothing for her to worry about. Witness added that her daughter was suffering from sleeplessness. - Miss Bragathra Hamilton, proprietress of the Wildercombe Nursing Home, stated that deceased came to her as a patient on the 21st of April. Her condition then was not serious. She seemed restless, but not depressed, and only complained of sleeplessness. After a few days her condition seemed to improve and deceased appeared to be happy. She would take the dog out for a run, and would go for a walk, which she seemed to enjoy. the previous day to the tragedy, witness saw her and she was quite all right, and went to bed about nine p.m. On the morning of Friday, about 7.30 a.m., witness saw her and deceased said she had had a good night's rest. Witness told the Coroner what the servant had told her. - The Coroner produced a water jar containing the liquid salts of lemon, and a glass which contained water. Asked by the Coroner if there was another glass in the bedroom, the proprietress replied in the negative, and further added that deceased had not eaten her breakfast nor drank her tea. - The Coroner pointed out that deceased must have drunk the salts of lemon out of the jar. There was no trace of salts of lemon in the glass. This was also examined by Dr Boone. - The proprietress of the Nursing Home added that deceased did not give her any suspicion of suicide. With regard to the purchase of the two packets of salts of lemon, she understood from later inquiries that deceased must have gone out on the Monday or Tuesday evenings and purchased it, for the supposed purpose of cleaning a dress. Deceased asked previously if she could have petrol, and was told she could, but it was not given her. - Gladys Caple, the servant employed at the Nursing Home, stated that she took up deceased's breakfast about eight a.m., and she was then in bed. The next thing she saw was deceased coming along the corridor calling witness by her name, deceased being in her nightdress, and she said, "Oh, quick, Gladys; I have taken something in mistake. Oh, don't leave me." When she was in the bathroom deceased stated she had taken salts of lemon. Witness gave her salt and water and later went for the proprietress, who arrived and gave her a further emetic. - Replying to the Coroner, witness said deceased had not touched her breakfast. The bottle which contained the salts of lemon liquid was on the table by the side of the bed, and the glass by its side. It was in the same condition. There was nothing else in the room, excepting a few aspirin tablets. - Dr Boone said that he attended deceased before and after arrival at the Home. She was suffering from sleeplessness and he prescribed for that. He had seen her about four times since being at the Home, and he considered she was greatly improving. About 8.55 a.m. on Friday he was telephoned for and arrived quickly, and found deceased in the bathroom. She complained of pains in the stomach and asked witness not to leave her. She was conscious. He gave her chalk water and an injection, but she collapsed shortly after. Replying to the Coroner, Dr Boone stated that half--dram of liquid salts of lemon was a fatal dose. Deceased's death was due to shock following the swallowing of the salts of lemon. - P.C. Jewell said he arrived at the Home about 9.20 a.m., and found two packets which had contained salts of lemon. the liquid was in the bottle. Upon investigation he found that on Monday or Tuesday deceased went to Mr Crang's, the chemist, in Broad-street, and asked for sixpenny worth of salts of lemon, deceased stating she wanted it to get out an iron mould or ink stain from a table cloth. He did not supply her with the full amount, only two penny worth. Deceased went to another chemist, Mr Scott, in the High-street, about Tuesday, and asked him for 1s. worth of salts of lemon for the same purpose. Not knowing deceased, the chemist refused to let her have such a large quantity and supplied her only with twopenny worth , saying that was sufficient for her purpose. Witness added there were no letters found in deceased's possession. - The Coroner, in summing up, said it was a most extraordinary case, and he could not conceive why this young single woman wished to take her life. He expressed satisfaction at the promptness of the doctor and staff at the Nursing Home, to administer emetics, and returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

North Devon Journal, Thursday 16 May 1929
HEANTON PUNCHARDON - Marwood Girl's Tragic Death. Cycle And Motor Cycle Collide Near Barnstaple. - There was a terribly distressing occurrence at West Ashford Cross, on the Barnstaple-Braunton main road on Thursday evening, a collision resulting in a girl cyclist being killed instantly and a motor-cyclist and lad riding pillion, sustaining injuries which necessitated their removal to the North Devon Infirmary. The cyclist was MISS ALICE YEO, aged twenty, daughter of MR and MRS FRED YEO. of Guineaford, Marwood, and domestic servant in the employ of Mr T. Dunn, C.C., of Heanton Court; whilst the motor-cyclist was William Herbert Quicke, aged twenty-three, mason, of Marwood, the pillion rider being George Turner, of Belle Meadow, Barnstaple. - MISS YEO had spent the afternoon and evening at home with her parents and was returning to her place of employment just before ten o'clock when the accident happened, about one mile from Heanton Court. She had just descended the bye-road at West Ashford Cross on her bicycle, when, on the main road her machine and the motor-cycle, approaching from Braunton, were in collision, with the tragic results stated. Hurled into the roadway, MISS YEO was apparently killed instantly, her neck being broken and face terribly injured. The riders of the motor-cycle were also thrown, and they were conveyed to the North Devon Infirmary suffering from severe bruising about the head, Quicke's eyes being also injured. - We understand that the motor-cyclist had been accompanied on an evening ride by Mr Frank Hill, motor mechanic, of High-street, Barnstaple, who was riding another motor-cycle… Hill, it was stated, had experienced some trouble with his lighting, and pulled up some distance back the road. Not knowing this, his companions, on the other machine, had proceeded on their way to Barnstaple, but when they found Hill was not following, they returned to locate him. Hill had restarted when they got back to him, and Quicke then turned to join him. When Hill, however, got about a quarter-of-a-mile past West Ashford Cross he could not see anything of Quicke, so he then returned and found that there had been an accident and the deceased and the two riders of the motor-cycle were lying in the roadway. - One of the first to arrive on the scene of the accident was Mr S. Rowlands, the player-coach of the Ilfracombe Town Football Club. He went on a motor-cycle to Barnstaple and notified the Police, who telephoned for the ambulance to be sent out. Among others who promptly arrived were Police Constables Baker and Hoyle (who were returning to Westdown after attending the funeral of Superintendent Eddy at Torquay), Police Inspector Leach, Constables Brownscombe and Wheeler and Dr H. S. Desprez of Barnstaple. - The unfortunate girl was beyond human aid, and her body was subsequently removed to the North Devon Infirmary by ambulance. - Mr R. E. Denny, of High-street, Barnstaple, happened to come along in his motor-car and he conveyed Quicke and Turner to the Hospital at Barnstaple. - Mr T. Dunn, MISS YEO'S employer, motoring home from an engagement at Shebbear, had the sad task of identifying the body before removal from the roadway and also of breaking the terrible news to the parents at Guineaford later in the night. A young woman of prepossessing appearance and most amiable disposition, MISS YEO had been a valued servant at Heanton Court for nearly three years; and her untimely death comes in the nature of a personal loss to the entire household, and indeed to all who knew her. Additional pathos attaches to the sad event by the fact that her cousin (MR BERT YEO, of Barnstaple) lost his life in a motor cycling accident near Instow as recently as Easter. Sympathy with the parents and other members of the family in this, their latest bereavement, is naturally general. - The North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, on Saturday took formal evidence of identification, and adjourned the Inquest to next Saturday when it will be held at Heanton Court.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 23 May 1929
HEANTON PUNCHARDON - Marwood Girl's Tragic End. Inquest Story: Motor Cyclist Severely Censured. - The North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, and a Jury on Saturday investigated the death of MISS ALICE YEO, aged 20, daughter of MR and MRS FRED YEO, of Guineaford, Marwood, who whilst cycling on the Barnstaple-Braunton main road at West Ashford Cross on the evening of May 9th, sustained fatal injuries as the result of being in collision with a motor-cyclist, Wm. Herbert Quicke, 23, mason, of Marwood, who had as pillion rider George Turner, a lad, of Belle Meadow, Barnstaple. the young woman was an esteemed employee as domestic servant of Mr T. Dunn, C.C., of Heanton Court, who very kindly placed his residence at the disposal of the Coroner for the purpose of Saturday's Inquest. Mr C. A. Reed was chosen Foreman of the Jury, other members being Messrs. E. Alford, W. H. Cooper, R. J. Williams, R. Fishley, J. Worth, J. Lovering, and C. Spear. Mr S. A. Copp appeared in the interests of deceased's family, whilst Mr R. E. C. Balsdon represented Quicke. Supt. E. Shutler, Inspector Leach and P.S. Challis (Devon Constabulary) also attended; whilst Mr Dunn (deceased's employer) was also present. - Coroner's Opening Statement. - The Coroner, recalling the very sad circumstances of MISS YEO'S death, said on the 9th instant she went from Heanton Court to her home on her push-bicycle, and again leaving home about 9.30 p.m., has just emerged from West Ashford-lane on to the main Barnstaple-Braunton road, when, just before ten o'clock she came into collision with the motor-cyclist, Quicke, who had the lad Turner as pillion rider. Quicke had been to Georgeham during the evening, and at the time was returning to Barnstaple with the lad Turner. The deceased, Quicke and the lad were the only persons present at the time of the occurrence, and witnesses would describe how they found them all injured on the road just afterwards. MISS YEO was lying close by the stone depot almost opposite the entrance to West Ashford Road, having been killed on the spot; whilst Quicke and the lad were found further on the road towards Barnstaple, with their machine and deceased's bicycle, Quicke being unconscious and Turner being also injured. P.C. Brownscombe, who was quickly on the scene from Barnstaple, made a very careful and excellent sketch plan of the site of the accident, whilst the Police also took very accurate measurements the same night, and checked them again next morning. Copies of the sketch plan were available to the Jury for their guidance, and the distance from the point of impact to where MISS YEO was found was 27 ft., and the total length of skid-marks to the point where Quicke and the lad were found was 71 ft. The road at the point was 21 ft. wide, and the first mark of impact showed that at the time MISS YEO was 7 ft. 6 ins. on the left-hand side of the road proceeding towards Braunton. She evidently came from West Ashford road across the main road to get on her proper side, and in doing so must have struck the motor-cyclist (Quicke) coming from the direction of Braunton. The marks on the road wee still visible, and he should be only too pleased to allow the Jury to inspect the spot, if they desired to do so; because it was a very important matter. The Jury would have to decide whether the motor-cyclist was riding in a negligent or fair and reasonable manner; or whether it was a pure accident. The Coroner further added that after the occurrence MISS YEO'S body was removed to the Mortuary at the North Devon Infirmary and that two days later, after formal evidence of identification by the father, he had adjourned the Inquest until that day. MR YEO had informed him that when the deceased left home for Heanton Court on her bicycle about 9.30 p.m., she was well and cheerful and that he was informed of the accident by Mr Dunn later in the night. - P.C. Brownscombe. - P.C. J. Brownscombe, of Barnstaple, first spoke to being informed of the accident at Barnstaple by Mr Denny, a motorist, who at the time was conveying Quicke and the lad Turner to the North Devon Infirmary. Witness at once proceeded to the scene with Inspector Leach; and having measured the skid marks made the sketch plan produced. A motor-cyclist, Frank Hill, pointed out to witness where MISS YEO'S body was lying. - The Motor-Cyclist's Evidence. - Frank Quicke, the motor-cyclist, elected to give evidence, and stated that, accompanied by Turner as pillion rider, he had been to Georgeham and was returning home from Knowle when the accident happened. Mr Frank Hill, of Barnstaple, was on another motor-cycle. They left Braunton about 9.20 p.m., and he (witness) had got to West Ashford Cross when he lost sight of Hill. He (Quicke) then turned around again and met Hill, he should say, about 100 yards back from Ashford Cross. Witness re-started on bottom gear, and after proceeding a little way changed into second gear, being on his correct side of the road at the time, and travelling at the rate of about twenty miles an hour. He had just changed into second gear when he approached West Ashford Cross. - The Coroner: Did you sound your horn? - I did not. He did not see anyone in the road until he came along absolutely opposite Ashford-lane, when he saw the girl on the bicycle a few yards from him. MISS YEO came out of Ashford-lane, but it was dark at the time, and he was not sure which way she was going. He had a head lamp, and remembered putting on his brakes before the accident happened. - Coroner: Why did you not see her before? - She came out of the lane. - Coroner, referring to the sketch plan: You see the distance from the left-hand hedge to that mark (indicated) is 7 ft. 6 ins. That is on her proper side, and your wrong side? - Yes. - How do you account for being on that side when you saw her - did you swerve? - I swerved, in putting on my brakes and trying to avoid her. I was on my right side beforehand. - Do you remember striking her? - No, sir. - When you first saw her how far on your proper side were you from the hedge, do you think? - Well, about 10 ft. I was travelling just on the correct side almost in the centre of the road. He had had this machine since January 4th and another one previously. - What pace could you go on this machine? - It all depends, with a good driver and a good road. - Can you say at what rate you were travelling there? - I do not know, exactly. - You ride this machine through Muddiford, when you go to work? - Yes. - Have you ever been spoken to about riding fast? - Mr Balsdon asked whether such a question was material to this Inquiry. MISS YEO was not riding at Muddiford at the time. A man might, he added, be the biggest sinner in the world, but he might have been very cautious on this particular evening. - The Coroner: Very well, I will not pursue the question. Quicke had said on this particular night he was going at twenty miles an hour; might he have been going more? - Quicke: No. - Were you trying to catch up Hill? - No; he was just in front of me at the time and there was no need to do so. - If you applied your brakes and you were only going twenty miles per hour, do you think you would have knocked deceased 27 ft. to where she was found? - It all depends on her rate; she was going sideways. - She was sort of turning? - She was broadside on. - She was not going away from you? - No. - You see where the bicycle was found was a distance of 71 ft. away. After the impact don't you think you should have been able to pull up in less than that distance? - Quicke replied that his feet would automatically come off the brakes as the result of the impact. - The Coroner: It seems a long way. If travelling at twenty miles an hour, and you want to pull up, in what distance would it take you to do so? - I can hardly say. It all depends on the state of the road. Just at the time I jammed on my brakes, but with the impact there was hardly any braking. - In answer to the Foreman, Quicke said as his foot came off the brakes he would have automatically gripped the handle-bars tighter. - In further reply to the Coroner, witness said his brakes were all right, and that he had an electric headlamp. He did not look at his speedometer, because it was dark. In going along the ground before falling, his shoe was damaged on the left side. - The Coroner, again alluding to the sketch plan, said MISS YEO had not got on her proper side when Quicke first saw her? - Witness: She was going on her proper side. - How came you on that side, leaving your proper side? - Presumably to avoid her. I was only two yards away and I did not know what to do. - Could you not have turned right into Ashford-lane? - How could I. - If you were on your right side of the road? - I did not see what to do to avoid her. - You ran right into her, towards the same way she was going? - It all happened in a second, and I did not know which way to go. I swerved automatically. - The Medical Evidence. - Dr H. S. Desprez, of Barnstaple, who reached the scene about 10.15 p.m., stated that he found MISS YEO lying by the side of the road, near the stone depot; and life was extinct. After the body had been removed to the Mortuary he found deceased had sustained a fractured skull and fractured jaw, whilst there was a compound fracture of both bones of the right leg below the knee. The cause of death was fracture of the skull, and he should say that death was instantaneous. - Coroner: Could that be caused by impact with a motor cyclist travelling at twenty miles an hour? - I should not like to say the pace; it is very easy to travel along that road without knowing the pace. - Do you think that travelling at twenty miles an hour would cause the injuries? - It might. - A heavy machine, with a rider and pillion rider, would carry more weight? - Yes, sir. - The Other Motor-Cyclist. - Frank Sharland Hill, motor mechanic, of Barnstaple, stated that on returning home he first stopped at the corner at Heanton Court for lamp trouble, and Quicke, who was in front, came back to look for him. Subsequently, witness went on in front and looking back saw that the road was in darkness and Quicke was not following. He (witness) then turned back again and he found MISS YEO, Quicke, and Turner all lying in the roadway. Witness was riding a 3 ½ h.p. Triumph, with sidecar. - Coroner: If you were going at twenty miles an hour and had to pull up suddenly, by reason, say, of a bullock in the roadway, in what distance could you do it.? - I should say in about seven yards. With a bad road or with gravel on it, one would skid. Witness further said he found Quicke and Turner astride the motor cycle, lying on their left-hand side in the road. MISS YEO was lying close to the stone depot; and her bicycle was entangled in the front wheel of the motor cycle. - Coroner: Was the position of Quicke and Turner on the motor-cycle in the roadway in accordance with what you think would have happened if they had been going at twenty miles an hour? - Yes, sir. I should think if they hit the girl there would be a skid, and they would then slide along. - The Coroner asked what witness thought would happen if Quicke had been going thirty miles an hour? - Hill replied that it was hard to say, but he should have thought they would have been thrown. They would have gone over the top of the machine. - Would not the entangled push bicycle have acted as a brake? - I could not say that; it is a funny question. - Was it likely to? - No; a bicycle could be pushed along easily, even with the hand. - What speed can these motor cycles go? - Up to sixty or sixty-five, according to who rides them. Along this particular road he doubted if a machine could be ridden at sixty miles an hour. - It is difficult to tell what rate you are going if you cannot see your speedometer? - I do not know. I usually know what pace I am going - from 15 to 35 miles an hour. - The Foreman: What distance do you require to travel to get up to 30 or 35 miles an hour? - I cannot tell you. I have never tried it. - Supt. Shutler: Did you see MISS YEO come out from Ashford-lane? - No, sir. The first I saw of the girl was when I found her lying on the ground. - The Pillion Rider. - George Turner, of Belle Meadow, Barnstaple, apprentice at Mr Hill's, stated that riding pillion on Quicke's machine, he saw MISS YEO come down the lane. It seemed to him she had no brakes on her bicycle, or she would have had time to pull up. She came across the road, as if she was going to turn towards Braunton. He did not know exactly how far she had got when run into, and he did not previously call Quicke's attention to her. He thought there was likely to be an accident, but did not see the actual impact. All he saw was the girl coming down the lane, and he could not remember anything after that. - This witness undertook to show the exact spot where he saw MISS YEO before the accident; and the Jury then adjourned in order to view the locale. They also inspected the motor cycle and the bicycle before returning. - P.C. Hoyle. - P.C. Hoyle, of Westdown, who on the night in question was motor-cycling home from Torquay, spoke to being held up at West Ashford Cross. He went to the aid of MISS YEO, who appeared to be very much injured, and apparently dead; meanwhile Quicke and Turner had been removed to the Infirmary in a motor-car. Just afterwards Inspector Leach and P.C. Brownscombe arrived from Barnstaple. - Description Of Scene. - P.C. Brownscombe informed the Jury that Mr R. E. Denny reported the occurrence to him at Barnstaple whilst conveying the motor-cyclist and pillion rider to the infirmary in his car. P.C. Fry phoned for the motor ambulance. Inspector Leach and P.C. Wheeler also proceeded to West Ashford Cross, where deceased was lying in a pool of blood, close to the hedge trough, with her head towards Barnstaple. Dr Desprez pronounced life extinct, and P.C. Wheeler conveyed the body to Barnstaple in the ambulance. The motor-cycle was lying on its near side in the hedge trough on the right-hand side of the road facing Barnstaple; it was in second gear. The pedal cycle was standing against the hedge in front of the motor-cycle. Extensive damage had been caused; and the front wheel of the bicycle was broken in half. There were two efficient brakes on the motor-cycle, the front brake blocks of the bicycle were in good condition, and the back brake appeared to be in order. Hill pointed out the spots where he found the injured persons in the roadway. The total length of the skid-mark was 71 feet, the width of the road 22 feet and at the junction to West Ashford-lane 66 feet. The main road was in a good state of repair; and there was a clear view for half a mile. From inquiries witness made at Marwood and Ashford, it appeared that MISS YEO cycled down West Ashford-lane just prior to the accident. On the day after the occurrence witness interviewed Quicke and Turner in the North Devon Infirmary and obtained signed statements from them. The Constable further mentioned that deceased's electric lamp was broken off by the impact. There was also an electric lamp on the motor-cycle. - Coroner Addresses Jury. - The Coroner said this was all the evidence he could put before the Jury. As he had previously remarked, it was unfortunate there was no independent person present who saw actually what happened. From the doctor's evidence it was clear that MISS YEO'S death, due to fracture of the skull, was instantaneous, and that the injuries were caused by being thrown off her bicycle violently on the road after being struck by the motor-cycle. Proceeding to give a resume of the general evidence, the Coroner asked the Jury to carefully consider the evidence of Quicke, who had stated that he was proceeding at twenty miles an hour, did not see the girl until he was close upon her, and that in endeavouring to avoid her, crashed into her. Quicke admitted he did not sound his horn, but in approaching West Ashford Cross he had his head-lamp lit, which threw a considerable way, and would, one would have thought, shown up deceased before he got so close to her. The Jury had had the advantage of going to the locale and hearing the lad Turner describe how deceased cycled out of the lane; and they were entitled to use their own skill and knowledge in determining what was the true state of affairs. They had to determine whether they accepted the story of Quicke that he made an error of judgment in trying to avoid her by swerving to the right. Ought he to have attempted to do that, instead of proceeding straight ahead and passing behind her? Of course, if Quicke was going at twenty miles an hour there was not much time to think of doing very much; and the question was whether he thought he was going to do the right thing by trying to avoid deceased in the way he did, thereby committing an error of judgment, or was he riding at such a pace in approaching the corner that he could not possibly pull up or avoid anyone coming out of the lane. The Coroner pointed out that people using a by-road were as much entitled to protection as people using a main road. It was presumed that a person using a by-road should in some way give way to traffic on the main road, but the main road person had to exercise the same care and attention as the one in the by-road. A person must not be selfish and say: "This is a main road, and I am going straight ahead," without caring what happened. If, however, he approached a side-road and another suddenly came out and hardly gave him time to clear, and he did in the time available what he thought best, then of course that would be an error of judgment. The Coroner quoted the view of a learned judge, Mr Justice Avory, in dealing with a similar case. He wanted the Jury to carefully consider whether a motor-cyclist going at twenty miles an hour could knock a girl 27 feet, and then go on a total distance of 71 feet. He should have thought the pedal cycle, entangled as it was in the motor-cycle, would have acted as a drag. Quicke had admitted he did not sound his horn on approaching the cross road. There was no law compelling one to do so, but he thought most people sounded their horn - this was what the horn was for - on approaching a corner or passing people on the road. - Supt. Shutler reminded him that the law provided for the sounding of the horn "where necessary," and he thought it was necessary at a cross-road or corner. The Coroner submitted several questions for the Jury's consideration. If they thought Quicke was grossly negligent then a verdict of manslaughter should be returned. If on the other hand they thought he had committed an error of judgment the verdict should be one of accidental death. They might add, if they thought fit, a rider that he ought to be more careful, and whether he should be censured or not. - Jury's Conclusions: Quicke Negligent. - After consulting in private for about half an hour, the Jury (through their Foreman) gave answers to the Coroner's questions as follows:- What was the cause of death? - Fracture of the skull. - How did she receive her injuries? - By the impact of a motor-cycle, ridden by Quicke. - Is Herbert Wm. Quicke to blame for causing her injuries? - Yes. - Was Quicke negligent? - Yes. - If negligent, does it amount to criminal negligence? - No. - Is Quicke deserving of censure? - Yes. - The Coroner: that is the verdict of you all? - Yes. - The Coroner's Strictures: Severe Warning To Quicke. - The Coroner, addressing Quicke, said he might consider himself extremely lucky for two things - "first, that we are not holding an Inquest on you, and secondly, that a verdict of manslaughter has not been returned." He was glad that the Jury had thought fit to say that he should be censured, and he hoped that it would be the means of preventing him doing further damage. Quicke was only 23 years of age, and he had already been cautioned several times with regard to his riding. He (the Coroner) did not want to prejudice Quicke's case before the Jury, but he knew men had begged him to ride in a proper and respectable manner, having regard to the roads. It was only a short time ago in Braunton that the Police-Sergeant treated Quicke as he would his own son, and begged him to be more careful. He was afraid if the gentleman who made the complaint had thought fit to prosecute Quicke would have got into it very hot. With regard to this particular night, Quicke knew from his conscience alone whether he had told them the whole truth, but he (the Coroner) thought he must have been travelling at a very great rate to do the damage he did. He had got off that day with a verdict of Accidental Death, but for heaven's sake let it be a warning to him. Why Quicke wanted to ride such a powerful motor-cycle without a side-care he (the Coroner) did not know; an ordinary 2 ½ h.p. machine would take him to and from his work just as well. Traffic was prodigious in these days; and they had to think not only of themselves, but of people coming out of side roads and other traffic. If people proceeded at undue rates they had no chance to pull up and were bound to do some damage. There had been complaints regarding Quicke in his own village time after time. People had begged him to ride properly; but he had taken no notice. Only the other day a man told him if he was not careful he would kill somebody; and the Sergeant had told him the same thing. He (the Coroner) trusted that what had happened would burn itself into Quicke's memory, and that when on the road he would ride in a reasonable and respectable manner, having regard to everyone's comfort and the right use of the road. Unless he could ride a motor-cycle in that way let him get rid of it, before he found himself in Exeter. - Mr Balsdon, on behalf of the Quicke family, expressed deepest sympathy with MR and MRS YEO and family in the tragic death of their daughter. - The Coroner and the Jury (through the Foreman) associated themselves with this expression; and Mr Copp acknowledged the remarks, on behalf of MR and MRS YEO and family.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 20 June 1929
CLOVELLY - Clovelly Waitress's Sad End. Died Suddenly In Street. - Found in a state of collapse in the street at Clovelly early on Saturday morning, RHODA BUSBY, 30, waitress at the New Inn Hotel, expired before medical aid could be summoned. Deceased had been employed at Clovelly since May, having previously worked at Ilfracombe and Lynmouth. - At the Inquest on Monday, before Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner for North Devon, Miss Jewell, of Clovelly, said just before 5 a.m. on Saturday she heard someone knocking and going down found a woman lying on the doorstep in an unconscious condition. She got assistance and the District Nurse and Dr Wilson of Bideford, were sent for, but she died before they arrived. Witness had never seen the woman before. - Dr Wilson said death was due to haemorrhage and shock. - Mr A. E. Bushell, in whose employ the woman had been, said she worked very cheerfully up to Friday night, and was one of the best servants he had. No-one in the establishment suspected her condition. She shared a room with another waitress and when the latter woke on Saturday morning she found her gone. She had apparently left by a window, as the front door was locked. - The Coroner mentioned that from a paper found and produced by Sergt. Hulland, it seemed that deceased at some time commenced a hairdresser's business at Bridport. He should think deceased commenced this business with no capital, borrowed "20 from a money lender and found that she could not carry on. - Mr Bushell: She had some hope of paying it back with interest. - The Coroner: Ninety-four per cent., that is all. Letters left by deceased showed that she had been very happy in her place at Clovelly, and apparently her intention was to get away and save any inconvenience at the place of her employment. The letters deceased left, added the Coroner, were extremely nice, and the woman had acted very nicely. He thought that there could be no doubt that the body was that of RHODA BUSBY, but in case there was any friend who could come forward and give positive evidence of identification, he would adjourn the case until the following day. - At the resumed Inquest on Tuesday, evidence of identification was given by a brother from Handsworth, Birmingham, who said he had not seen his sister for ten years. - For additional inquiries the Coroner further adjourned the Inquest for a week.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 27 June 1929
CLOVELLY - Clovelly Waitress's Death. - At Tuesday's adjourned Inquest on RHODA BUSBY, thirty, waitress, who recently collapsed and died in the street, identity was established by a brother from Birmingham. Mr Coroner G. W. F. Brown returned a verdict of Natural Causes in accordance with the medical testimony, namely, that death was due to haemorrhage and shock.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 4 July 1929
LYNTON - Lynmouth Hill Tragedy. Motor Cyclist Sustains Fatal Injuries. - There was a terrible motor-cycling accident on Lynmouth-hill on Monday, MR JOHN PATON, a visitor from Essex, sustaining fatal injuries, and his wife, who was riding in the sidecar, being also badly injured. - At the Inquest yesterday, before Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner for North Devon, JAMES PATON stated that his brother (the deceased) was aged 40 and a plumber. He had had the machine for a year or so and witness understood that he had on this occasion driven about 400 mils. - Edward Burgess, labourer, of Lynmouth, spoke to seeing the machine pass him on the hill "like the wind," and it then banged against the wall. - P.C. Mogridge (Parracombe) stated that when he arrived Nurse Freestone and others were rendering first aid. The surface of the road was fairly dry at the time, but rough. The machine, which was badly damaged, appeared to be in second gear. - Dr Courtney said MR PATON passed away shortly after the accident in Lynton Cottage Hospital, having sustained a severe fracture of the base of the skull, and a broken jaw. MRS PATON had a very severe blow on the bridge of the nose and a bad gash. He paid a high tribute to the prompt action of the Ambulance Brigade. - MRS PATON, the widow, stated that they had come from Ilfracombe, and inquiring the way to Lynmouth, were told to be very careful. Reaching the hill, her husband shut the engine off, and it stopped altogether and the brakes would not act. As soon as the engine stopped the machine went as fast as it could, and her husband could not stop it. The brakes were re-lined before they came away. She did not see the turning at the left until the moment they crashed into the wall. - The Coroner said there was no sign at the top of the hill except one stating the gradient, and the Jury might consider whether it would not be advisable to have a more drastic notice. - The Jury (of which Dr Witney Jones was Foreman) returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," with no blame attaching to anyone. They suggested, however, that steps should be taken to have a notice placed at the top of the hill, as it was dangerous. - Dr Courtney remarked there was no doubt it was the most dangerous hill in Lynmouth. - The Coroner promised to forward the suggestion to the proper quarter.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 18 July 1929
BARNSTAPLE - Barnstaple Railway Tragedy. Sad Death Of A Porter. - A ghastly tragedy occurred at the Barnstaple Junction Station on Thursday night, a porter, WILLIAM JAMES HEPPER BOLT, aged 39, being knocked down by a goods train and terribly mutilated, expiring in the North Devon Infirmary about a quarter of an hour after admission. Transferred from Chapelton only a few weeks ago, BOLT was engaged in signalling shunting operations at the time of the accident. He leaves a widow and two sons. - The Inquest. - The Borough Coroner, Mr T. A. R. Bencraft, conducted an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death at the North Devon Infirmary on Saturday. The Jury empanelled comprised Mr W. Tolley (chosen Foreman), Messrs. T. Guest, E. E. Laramy, M. Hardy, H. Hitchcock, F. Manley, S. Jarvis and C. Widden. - Mr G. F. Lefroy represented the driver of the goods train and the fireman (Messrs. Hurved and Walker). - MRS EMILY BOLT, of Chapelton, stated that deceased was her only child. She last saw him alive on the night of the tragedy at about eight o'clock. He seemed cheerful and was quite all right. - Wm. Fredk. Jones, fireman, Southern Railway, said that he was on a passenger train, which was empty and was being shunted. His train was coming from the loop. The deceased was giving his train a light, and was standing on the four-foot way. Suddenly he lost sight of the porters' signal, and told the driver to stop. At the same moment he heard a whistle from the goods engine. - The Coroner: Had the deceased done the signalling before? - Practically the whole of this week. - Was the goods train coming in the same way? - Yes. - So the man would be looking out; he would know it was coming? - Oh, yes. - Mr Lefroy: It is the duty of these porters to shunt trains, it is not? - Yes. - His primary job would be to watch your train, and give you the various signals by which you move? - Yes. - So he would be between the two sets of metals - he would not be on the metals when another train was coming? - Yes, and No. - The goods train was moving in the same direction as yours? - Yes. - On a parallel road? - Yes. - And the goods train was rather in front of you? - A little bit. - Mr Lefroy: Near where he fell was there anything to do with the locking of the points? - I did not take any notice. - Was there a locking bar? - Yes. - Was it quite close to where he fell? - Yes. - It was only an inch or two from the ground? - Yes. - He might catch his foot? - Yes. - Foreman: The man was standing sideways to your engine? - Yes. - Had he glanced he would have seen it coming? - Yes. - Detective Woods (S.R.): When you last saw the deceased where was he standing? - In the six-foot. - Driver F. G. Hurved, the driver of the goods train, said he was engaged at 10.20 p.m. in shunting operations with 25 waggons. His signalman was at the tail of the train. The engine was of the tank class and was being driven bunker first. He was watching his signal man, and did not see the deceased. Suddenly his fireman turned around and blew the whistle and at the same moment he heard a rattle of glass and said, "That's got him." He stopped the engine and then the deceased was found under the seventh truck. Witness's opinion was that BOLT was giving his signal light to his own engine and when he saw he was going to miss the view of his own man, dived across in front of witness's train. - Foreman to witness: Was he between the rails? - Yes, in the locking gear. - Detective Woods: What speed were you doing? - About seven or eight miles an hour. In answer to the Coroner, witness said there were lights on the engine. - Ronald Walker, fireman of the goods train, said he saw BOLT standing there. He appeared to have his back to the engine, and was about ten yards away when he saw him first. - The Coroner: What did you do? - I turned around and blew the whistle. I did not see him hit. I think he tripped. - Dr K. G. W. Saunders said BOLT had severe injuries of the right arm and right foot, and was suffering from shock and wounds in the head. He had a fractured skull, and died about twenty minutes after admission to Hospital, without fully recovering consciousness. - The Jury were unanimous that death was purely accidental with no-one to blame. - The Coroner, Jury and Mr Lefroy (on behalf of the driver and fireman) and Detective Woods (on behalf of the Southern Railway), expressed heartfelt sympathy with the widow and relatives. The Jury gave their fees to the widow. - The Funeral. - The interment was made on Monday in Yarnscombe Churchyard, regret and sympathy being evidenced by the large attendance of public sympathisers. At the Church service the hymns sung were "Let saints on earth in concert sing" and "On the Resurrection Morning," the organist (Miss Hall) also playing "O rest in the Lord" as the cortege entered the Church, and the "Dead March" (in Saul) as it left. - The principal mourners were Mrs W. Bolt (widow), Mrs Bolt (mother), Roy and Cecil Bolt (sons), Mr and Mrs Stocker (brother-in-law and sister-in-law), Miss Ivy Stocker (niece), Miss J. M. Vallance, Mrs Luxton, Mr Luxton, Mr P. Bolt, Mr and Mrs A. D. Bolt (cousins). The bearers were Messrs. A. Callard, W. Blake, P. Pullin (fellow-employees of the deceased), F. Turner, F. Dymond and A. Beer.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 25 July 1929
GREAT TORRINGTON - Sad Tragedy At Torrington. The Inquest. - A sad fatal accident occurred at Undercleave-road, Little Torrington, on Monday, resulting in the death of CHARLES HENRY BAKER, aged 53, labourer, of Taddiport. - Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner for North Devon, conducted an Inquest on the deceased on Tuesday. BAKER, said Mr Brown, for several years had been employed by a Mr Richard Baker, of Cross Hill Cottage, Little Torrington. Deceased went with a horse and cart to fetch some poles from South Hole Woods to take to Torrington, as he had done many times previously. He was found a little while later pinned beneath his cart, which had overturned, apparently through one of the poles catching in the gateway. The horse was also on its side. Oswald George Raymond, of Bideford and James Webber happened to be passing a little later and obtained assistance. BAKER was extricated, but was found to be dead. - Police-Sergt. Brewer of Torrington, said that the poles were 37 feet in length and there was only 33 feet clearance taking a right bend into the gateway. The cart and its contents weighed about 12 cwt., and BAKER was found lying face downwards with the rail of the cart across his shoulders. - Dr Killard-Leavey of Torrington, said that four ribs were fractured and there were other injuries. The cause of death was asphyxia from the weight of the cart. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was recorded.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 25 July 1929
LYNMOUTH - Killed By Falling Boulder At Lynmouth. Young Lad Visitor The Victim. - On Thursday there was a most unusual and distressing occurrence on Sillery Beach, Lynmouth, which noted for its fine sands and bathing, is a favourite resort for visitors and others, particularly during the summer months. Struck by a boulder which had become dislodged from the cliff overhead, MISS LILY EVELYN MUDDIMAN, on holiday from Birmingham, sustained such grave injuries that she passed away before medical aid arrived; whilst her sweetheart, Mr Joseph Fowkes, sustained a compound fracture of the arm, and was removed to Lynton Cottage Hospital. Mr W. F. MUDDIMAN (deceased's brother) and his wife moved away from the scene just in time to avoid being struck, in response to shouts by another visitor who saw stones falling from the cliff, which is several hundred feet in height at the spot. A gentleman visitor ran to Lynmouth with the news of the tragedy, and within a short time Dr J. M. Courtney and members of the Lynton Ambulance Corps reached the scene. The ambulance men a little later undertook the perilous task of ascending with a stretcher conveying the injured persons the terrible height from beach to road along a path which at many points is but a foot or so in width. Marked carefulness and perseverance, were, however, rewarded, and after a long climb those engaged safely reached the main Countisbury-road, where the Lynton motor ambulance was in waiting. Unhappily, however, MISS MUDDIMAN had meanwhile passed away. The tragedy has aroused widespread sympathy for those bereaved in a wide district. MISS MUDDIMAN was to have been married shortly and Saturday, when the Inquest was held, would have been her 26th birthday. - The Inquest was held before Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner for North Devon. - The first witness was Mr James Henry Haydon, a visitor from London, who stated that at Sillery, about 6 p.m. he noticed quite a crowd of stones falling off the cliff, and gave the alarm to the party in question by shouting. He considered that the noise of the tide prevented the unfortunate couple from hearing him, but MR and MRS MUDDIMAN appeared to have heard him and moved away. The weight of the stone was about three-quarters of a cwt., and it fell apparently from a height of 100 yards. He immediately assisted in carrying the injured couple to a place of safety. He did not see anyone on the cliffs at the spot from whence the rock fell, but there were sheep close by. The party were about three or four yards out from the bottom of the cliff. - Deceased's brother, WILLIAM FREDERICK MUDDIMAN, stated that the party had been seated under the cliff at Sillery Sands about 1 ½ hours, when he suddenly heard a shout. His wife and himself managed to take the warning in time, but his sister and Fowkes did not move quick enough and were struck by a falling boulder. He had not heard any stones falling previously. His sister was badly injured and although help was immediately sent for, she died before it arrived. In reply to the Coroner, witness said he saw no people nor sheep on the side of the cliff. - Wilfred Gifford Cheesman, Boweshark, North London, who was on the beach at the time, said that when he ran along the cliff to get a doctor and the ambulance he saw two lambs near the loose rock, which at that particular spot, he thought, only required a slight touch to send it rolling. - Dr J. M. Courtney, Lynton, stated on being sent for he found the deceased lady terribly injured; with great skill the ambulance men conveyed both injured to the motor ambulance on the main road to Countisbury. He particularly eulogised the valuable services also rendered by Miss Hope Medway. A post mortem examination revealed that death was due to shock caused by the terrible injuries to kidneys and thigh. - Summing up, the Coroner assured the relatives and friends of the heartfelt sympathy of all, the case being additionally sad by the fact that those involved were on holiday and were shortly to have been married. It was most unfortunate that they did not hear the alarm shouted by Mr Haydon. He (the Coroner) could not speak too well of the action of the ambulance men and others who helped in getting the unfortunate couple up the terrible cliff path. The Corps were a great credit to Lynton and Lynmouth. Their services had been required a great deal of late, and they did their duty admirably. His verdict was "Accidental Death." - Mr Haydon, a witness, said great praise and thanks were also due to Mr F. Pullman, bathing attendant at Sillery, for his great help in this sad affair.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 8 August 1929
BIDEFORD - Bideford Tragedy. - That things had been missed at his lace of work and suspicion had fallen on him, was the only reason brought forward at the Inquest on RICHARD THOMAS HEADON, 11 Montagu-place, Bideford, farm labourer, aged 39 years, for his sudden death on Sunday morning. The Deputy Coroner, Dr Ellis Pearson, returned a verdict of Suicide by Hanging. Deceased leaves a widow and four children. - The widow stated that deceased had been a good deal worried at his work because things had been lost out there and he thought people were suspicious of him. He had been thinking of this some time, but he had never given her any reason to suppose that he would take his life.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 15 August 1929
HARTLAND - At the Inquest held by the North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, at Edistone, Hartland, on Saturday afternoon, touching the death of THOMAS BURROW, 49, smallholder, MRS MABEL BURROW said her husband had his dinner the previous day as usual about one o'clock. He had been unwell and depressed for some time, and complained of "stabs in his head." After dinner he sat outside the door a little while, and before three p.m. left, but did not say where he was going. At about three p.m., Mr Cleverdon, butcher, came, and she went out to his van. They heard a gun; she called out, and deceased was found lying on the ground in the cart shed. She sent for the Police. He had never threatened to take his life. Asked if there was any insanity in the family, she replied that his sister destroyed herself at Bude cliffs over twenty years ago. He had nothing to worry him except ill-health. - Sidney C. Cleverdon deposed that he arrived about three p.m. MRS BURROW came towards his van, when they heard the report of a gun. He had not seen deceased, but found him lying behind the cart with the gun in his arms, quite dead. He did not notice the string attached to the cart until the Constable came. The last time he saw deceased was about a fortnight previous. He had been low-spirited for a considerable time, but attended to his cattle all right. - Dr Richard Kay said he had attended him about half-a-dozen times between March 26th and May 10th. Deceased complained of not being equal to his work and of sleeplessness. Deceased suffered from neurasthenia, but nothing radically wrong, and he gave him tonics. The cause of death was laceration of the brain by shooting. - P.C. Tonkin spoke to being sent for at four o'clock. He found deceased lying on his left side, with the double-barrelled gun (produced) tied by the trigger to the axle of the cart with binder-twine. The right barrel had been loaded and discharged, both hammers being down. He removed the body indoors. The last time he saw MR BURROW was a month ago at the cattle auction. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Suicide by Shooting."

North Devon Journal, Thursday 15 August 1929
LEAMINGTON, WARWICKSHIRE - Young Barumite's Tragic Fate - The Funeral: In Barnstaple Cemetery on Thursday were interred the mortal remains of MR ALFRED JOHN THORNE, who, as recorded last week, was accidentally killed by being thrown (as the result of a skid) from a motor-cycle on which he was riding pillion at Leamington. Aged 23, and a cabinet-maker, deceased (who was the only son of the late MR GEORGE THORNE, of Barnstaple) had been working at Bradford and was proceeding to his native place on holiday when the tragedy occurred. Pastor W. Dinnis (United Methodist) conducted the funeral service, and made feeling reference to the sad loss the deceased's sisters had sustained. - Immediate mourners were Mrs C. Williams, Mrs R. Baddick, Misses Minnie, Maggie, Doris, Nellie and Evelyn Thorne (sisters), Miss Edith Witt (Leeds), Messrs. C. Eames, C. Williams, and R. Baddick (brothers-in-law), Mr C. Thorne (uncle), Mr and Mrs C. Moore (uncle and aunt), Mr W. Manning (uncle), Mrs H. Thorne, Mrs J. Kingdon, Mrs A. Thorne, Exeter (aunts), Mrs W. Brend, Mrs R. Allen, Mrs J. Balment, Mr H. Manning, and J. Williams (cousins). The coffin, of polished English elm, with brass fittings, bore the inscription: "ALFRED JOHN THORNE: passed peacefully away, August 3rd, 1929: Aged 23 years." - At the Inquest at the Warneford Hospital, Leamington, where MR THORNE passed away, evidence was given by Frederick George Collett (23) of 6 Rombalds Crescent, Leeds, to the effect that deceased and himself were on their way from Leeds to spend a holiday at Barnstaple. They were riding on witness's motor-cycle, deceased being seated on the pillion. In Leek Wootton, at about eight a.m., they were about to overtake a motor-car at the corner near the Anchor Inn, when the machine skidded, and they were thrown to the ground. Witness saw that THORNE was lying on his back and on going to him could get no other reply than "Oh, my head!" With assistance the unfortunate young man was conveyed to the Warneford Hospital. - John Wright, of Leek Wootton, said he was waiting for a 'bus to take him to Kenilworth when he saw the accident. It appeared to him that the pillion rider turned in his seat and caused the driver to slightly swerve, with the result that, on the slippery road, the machine skidded. - P.C. Toone said that he had visited the scene of the accident, but there were few marks which were of assistance owing to the volume of traffic which had proceeded over the road. The Kenilworth Police had made as many inquiries as were possible, but these had not resulted in much information being forthcoming. There were a number of marks which suggested that the kick-starter had caught the road. - Dr Perrott, House Physician at the Hospital, said the deceased did not regain consciousness, and died from a fractured skull. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned by the Jury, who also expressed sympathy with the bereaved relatives.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 22 August 1929
ILFRACOMBE - Cliff Tragedy At Ilfracombe. Boy Scout The Victim. - The tragically sad death of an American Boy Scout, who had attended the Jamboree held at Birkenhead and was paying a brief visit to Ilfracombe, occurred on Sunday morning. About 12 o'clock Eagle-Scout JAMES E. BERRY aged 16 years, of the Jamboree Patrol of Cushing, U.S.A., who, with a party of boy colleagues, was staying at the Runnacleave Hotel, visited the Tunnels Beach and commenced climbing the Beacon side cliffs, at which point the cliff is about 200 feet in height and almost perpendicular. BERRY had climbed to within a few feet of the top, when the shale of the cliff gave way, and he slipped and fell to the bottom. Sustaining terrible injuries, the unfortunate lad expired within a few minutes of the doctor's arrival. Some of his companions, who were also visiting the Tunnels, saw him slip and rushed to the spot in what proved to be a futile endeavour to break his fall. Sergt. Kingdon, with P.C. Northey and Beach-Attendant Stanbury, removed the body to the Mortuary. Deceased was the son of an American banker and oil stock owner, of Still Water, Oklahoma. He was particularly fond of climbing and had scaled large storey buildings in the United States. BERRY had been warned of the danger attending climbing at Ilfracombe. - Deceased's brother was also one of the party, who were due back to Southampton to sail on their ship for home on Tuesday. - The Inquest. - The North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, conducted the Inquest at the Tyrrell Cottage Hospital on Monday. - George Addison Bullock (Scoutmaster), of Still Water, Oklahoma, U.S.A., Scoutmaster of the detachment to which deceased belonged, also secretary of the Y.M.C.A., gave evidence of identification. He was not present when the accident happened. - Edward McDowell Strode, of Still Water, Oklahoma, and member of the same troop as deceased, stated that on Sunday morning he was at the Tunnels with the party about 10.30 a.m. BERRY attempted to climb, with another boy named Bryant. They shouted to them, and Bryant came back. BERRY was just getting to the top when the shale loosened and deceased slipped and fell. The cliff was almost perpendicular at this point. witness saw he was badly injured and sent for the doctor. - The Coroner suggested that it was a breach of discipline for BERRY to have gone climbing. They were told not to go. Bryant came back when told, but BERRY went on. - Witness said that was so, and added that BERRY was a venturesome lad, but not more so than any ordinary lad. - John Turner Cooper, of "Wewoka," Oklahoma, confirmed the evidence given by the last witness, and added that BERRY was told it was a dangerous place to climb. - Dr D. C. Adams said he was called to the Tunnels about 12.20 on Sunday. When he arrived BERRY was at the bottom of the cliff, and he died within a few minutes. Deceased was badly injured, sustaining a large scalp wound five inches long and fracture to the skull, and he was bleeding considerably from the nose, mouth and ears. The cause of death was fracture of the skull and lacerated brain, leading to haemorrhage. - The Coroner reviewed the evidence, and returned a verdict of Accidental Death. He expressed sympathy with the family, Scoutmaster, and fellow-colleagues of the detachment in the terrible tragedy. - Mr R. M. Rowe, on behalf of himself and co-directors of the Ilfracombe Sea Bathing Company, said he would like to express to the parents of "this intrepid boy" the Scoutmaster (Mr G. A. Bullock) and the boy's colleagues their deepest sympathy. He pointed out that the accident did not occur on the bathing beaches, but on the West Tunnels Beach. - Major H. Pole, courier of the party, said he desired to thank everyone who had rendered assistance, particularly Mr Rowe, Mr Pearce , the Runnacleave Hotel, and the beach attendant, Mr Stanbury. - P.C's Northey and Stewart were among those present at the Inquiry.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 29 August 1929
BRENDON - Brendon Resident's Fatal Fall. Inquest Story. - Mr G. W. F. Brown, North Devon Coroner, held an Inquest on Monday evening on RICHARD CLIFFORD, aged 56, married, of Bridgeball, near Brendon, who died on Saturday as the result of a fall from his horse whilst returning to his home from Brendon on Thursday night last. - Alan Ash, of Hilford, Brendon, stated that he was at the Staghunters' Inn, Brendon, at 7.20 on Thursday evening, where he saw the deceased, who left the premises about 9.50 p.m. Replying to the Coroner, Ash, said CLIFFORD was sober, and thought he was capable or riding his pony, but admitted he had had a few drinks; ten minutes later witness, accompanied by Mr Lock, also left the Inn riding on one pony, and when by the quarry near Rockford, saw deceased lying on his side in the road. The pony was found not at Rockford, where CLIFFORD told them, but at Churchill. - Questioned by Coroner, witness declared that deceased never told him how the accident happened, and that he never asked him. The Coroner urged that he wanted to get at the truth, and that he did not wish witness to beat about the bush, but to tell him (the Coroner) if the man was drunk or not, and if he saw how the accident happened. It was inconceivable that a person finding a man lying in the road not asking him what had happened. - Continuing his evidence, Ash said that Mr Lock and himself had to lift the deceased on his horse and one held him there while the other led the horse. They placed him in bed on arrival at his home and nobody suggested sending for a doctor. Witness said that the only wound he saw was on the forehead. - Similar evidence was given by William John Lock, farmer, of Brendon, who accompanied the previous witness on the night in question. He said that when CLIFFORD left the Inn there was nothing the matter with him, and that he rode away on his pony all right. Lock asked deceased what was the matter, and said deceased replied that he did not know. Witness lit a match and saw that deceased's face was scarred. There was a forehead wound, but he did not see one on the back of the head. He noticed that the left-hand stirrup was hanging over the same side of the saddle as the right-hand one. - Dr A. H. Head, of Brendon, who examined the deceased the day following the accident, said he found no signs of a fracture of the skull; there was no bleeding from the ear and nose; there was a scarred wound to the right parietal, contusion of the spine and the cause of death was asphyxia secondary to compression on the brain, caused by rupture. Witness added that from the external injuries one would not have thought there were such internal injuries. - In reply to the Coroner, he said that if he had been sent for before he would have sent CLIFFORD to Barnstaple for an operation, which might have saved his life. - Evidence of identification was given by the widow, SARAH ANN CLIFFORD. Her husband on Thursday had been to Brendon about the show, he being on the committee. She saw nothing more of him until he was brought home somewhere about 11 p.m., when she noticed that there was a wound on the back of the head and the side of the head, which she dressed, but later she found another wound bleeding at the back of the head. The deceased never spoke. She could not say whether he had been drinking or not, or whether he was under the influence of drink. - The Coroner said that he could not understand why a doctor had not been sent for before, to which the witness replied that she had never seen anyone unconscious and did not know. Her husband was accustomed to the mare he was riding, which was about nine years old. The doctor was sent for on the Friday morning. - The Coroner, in his observations on the evidence, pointed out that the two men had passed the doctor's house whilst conveying the deceased home, and even when he utterly collapsed on arriving at his home a doctor was still not sent for. If a doctor had been sent for early there was quite a good chance that CLIFFORD'S life might have been saved; it was not as though one had to send into Lynton for a doctor; there was one on the spot. The deceased was evidently under the influence of drink, and when he came into the open air it rendered him more liable to the effects. His verdict would be "Accidental Death from Injuries described by the doctor." - The Funeral. - The funeral took place at Brendon yesterday amid many manifestations of regret and esteem. The interment in the Parish Churchyard was preceded by an impressive service in the Church, at which there was a crowded congregation. The Rev. H. J. Marshall (London) officiated in the absence of the Rector, and he was assisted by the Rev. W. Williams (Rector of Oare). The hymns, "Lead, Kindly Light," was sung, Mr C. Squire being at the organ. - The principal mourners were the widow, Mesdames Thorne (Barnstaple), Baker, (Bratton Fleming), Rogers (Exeter), sisters; Messrs. Balment (3, Barnstaple), and D. Thorne (Barnstaple), nephews; Mr T. W. Pearce (Barnstaple) brother-in-law; Mesdames Pile, Gammon and Huxtable (sisters-in-law),; Messrs. G. Lyddon, S. Huxtable, G. Sanders and J. Gammon, brothers-in-law; [plus many others named].

North Devon Journal, Thursday 5 September 1929 BIDEFORD - The Torridge Fatality. Inquest Story Of Companion's Brave Rescue Effort. - The story of a boy's valiant effort to save his companion from drowning was told at the Inquest at Bideford on Thursday night on LESLIE PRUST, of Torrington-lane, Bideford who )as reported in last week's issue) was drowned while bathing in the River Torridge at Bideford the previous day. - The boy's father, MR CHARLES PRUST, said his sons left home at dinner-time and went with a party of boys up the river to picnic. - Wilfred Sluman, aged 12, of Bideford, said that at about 4.30 in the afternoon he and other boys went into the water. Reaching the other side, he sat down on the bank. PRUST tried to get across also, and witness shouted to him not to go too fast. Soon after this, however, he saw PRUST in the water out of his depth, and then PRUST shouted, "I am drowning." "I tried to get to him (continued witness). It was out of my depth, but I can swim. I got hold of him and he sank into deep water, dragging me in too, and then I had to let him go." Another boy also went out, but he could not swim, and then they saw PRUST'S head and arms come up again. Witness said he did not think PRUST could swim. They had not bathed at that particular spot before. - Richard Braunton, of Torrington-street, Bideford, said he was fishing at the iron bridge when Sluman came running to him. Witness immediately went to the spot and dived in at the place where the boy had gone down, but was unsuccessful in his attempt to locate him. The water at the time was twelve feet deep and was muddy. The place was a very dangerous one for children, because one could be walking along up to the waist and then go "right down" - there was a very nasty pit there and no warning. - P.C. Colwill, who recovered the body with grappling irons, tried artificial respiration without success. - The Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, returned a verdict of "Accidental Drowning," and complimented Sluman and Braunton on their efforts to save PRUST'S life. - The Funeral. - There was a large number of friends at the funeral, which took place on Saturday at the East-the-Water Cemetery, Bideford, the Rev. W. G. Eeles officiating. The immediate mourners were the parents, Bert, Gert, Mabel, Elsie and Billy (brothers and sisters); Bill and Mary (brother and sister-in-law), Mr W. Prust, Mrs Comer, Mr and Mrs F. Cawsey, Mrs Huxtable, Mr and Mrs Paddon (aunts and uncles), Doris, Winnie, Emily, Mrs Ford, Mrs Spiller, Mrs Fry, Mrs Chapple, Grace and Reg (cousins). The boys of his class also attended, with his school-teacher, Mr Shute, in the absence of his schoolmaster, Mr C. S. F. Harding, and there were many other friends present.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 5 September 1929
HIGH BRAY - Brayford Farm Worker Meets Death While Sheltering From Rain. Temporary Shelter Struck By Lightning: One Killed And Three Injured. - How five people were struck by a terrific lightning flash - one of them fatally - whilst taking shelter under two pieces of galvanized iron in a heavy thunderstorm was unfolded at an Inquest held yesterday, at Brayford, by the County Coroner, Mr G. W.F. Brown, upon FREDERICK ARTHUR HARDING, 17, of Lane Cottage, Brayford. - Four men were engaged in cutting a field of corn at Kimlands, Stoke Rivers, when they were forced to run for shelter from the heavy thunder rain. Mr G. Norman, of Lane Farm, ran for two sheets of galvanized iron in the next field, and an improvised shelter was made, under which the unfortunate party crouched. Suddenly a heavier peal of thunder was heard, and a vivid flash of lightning struck the shelter. Mr Huxtable, who was standing on the outside position of the shelter, recovered quickly from the effect of the shock, and seeing the rest of the party lying by his side, all apparently dead, he shouted and rushed across the field for help. His frantic calls were quickly heard by Mr George Hill and others, who were working a few fields away, and who immediately went to the scene, whilst Mr Huxtable ran on out into the road and shouted to a passing motorist - Mr Dallyn, of West Buckland - who drove with all speed to the nearby village for assistance. He also summoned Dr F. C. J. Baker, of Southmolton. Mr Hill and his men, Mr J. Carey, of Charles, Mrs Andrew, of Mockham Barton and several others, upon reaching the spot found MR FRED HARDING with his head and chest coloured purple, lying dead against the hedge in a crouching position. Seeing that their possible assistance could be of no avail in this case, their attention was turned to the others - Messrs. G. Norman, JOHN HARDING (of Lane Cottage), Mr Gerald Huxtable (of Brayford) and Miss Norman. Miss Norman at first appeared to be dead, having been marked on the shoulders and legs, and having a hole burnt through her clothing, but she was discovered to be only unconscious. Mr Norman was injured about the shoulders and legs, but not seriously, but MR JOHN HARDING was seriously injured about the head All were removed to their homes, where they recovered with the exception of MR JOHN HARDING, who still lies in rather a serious condition. - It was very plucky of Mr Huxtable to run as he did for assistance, considering that he also received injuries to the legs. - Our representative visited the scene of the tragic affair yesterday morning, and was surprised at the extent of the lightning's play upon the hedge. It appeared that it first earthed at the spot from where the galvanized iron used for the shelter was taken and flashed up over the hedge across the wet gate and into the opposite hedge, where it removed some hundredweight or so of stones and rubble. From this point the current continued a course through the centre of the hedge for about twenty yards, earthing against a scythe, a piece of chain harness, the galvanized shelter (where the tragedy occurred), and at its last point through a roller lying beside the hedge. Its course is plainly marked by a deeply ploughed furrow through the hedge and by holes in the ground at pointes where the current went to earth. - The Inquest. - The Inquest was held at Lane Farm at 12 p.m. yesterday. - MRS MARY ELIZABETH HARDING, mother of the deceased and wife of MR J. HARDING, said that her son, FREDERICK ARTHUR HARDING, was seventeen years of age. - The Coroner: Was he a farm labourer? - Yes. - You were not there were you at the scene of the accident? - No. - Later he was brought home? - Yes, sir; but I was not in the house when they brought him in. - Mr George Norman said that the deceased was working for him. - Was it thundering on and off during the afternoon? - Yes. - And the rain came? - Yes. - Did all of you run for the hedge for shelter? - Yes. - Did you put up anything? - Yes, I went out over the other side of the hedge and took up some sheets of galvanized iron I kept there, and brought it in to the corn field, sticking it against the hedge and we got in under - myself, my daughter, MR HARDING and his boy. - You struck it beside the hedge? - Yes, I fixed it up with something and we got in under. We were not standing upright. - Was there suddenly a loud crash of thunder? - Oh, dreadful. - Did the lightning appear like a ball of fire? - I can hardly say; you see I did not see any lightning, but all at once there was a great bang. I don't know if there was any lightning before. - Did it knock the iron down? - Yes, clean off our heads in front of us. - Was the deceased knocked down? - Yes, both MR HARDING and the boy were knocked down. I thought they were both dead for a time. - Did you all receive a shock? - Yes. - Can you see the place where the lightning struck the ground? - Yes, where it ran along at the top of the hedge beyond us. - Was there anything to attract it to where you were? - I don't know; there was a new cycle there, but that was not touched. - Dr F. C. J. Baker, of Southmolton, said he arrived on the scene about ten past four. - Coroner: Deceased was then quite dead? - Yes, and curled up against the hedge. - Did you find any marks? - Only the blue eccymecosis marks. There were no burns, and no metal upon his body had been marked. - Had he a knife? - He had a watch and brass buckles, but nothing was touched and the watch was still going. Two of the three people had actual burns upon them. - His boots, I believe, were untouched? - Yes. There was no damage or burning of clothes, or marks on the body at all. - The Coroner: That is very curious. - What was the cause of death? - It would be shock through electrical discharge, and shock played a very big part in it. - Was there any cerebral haemorrhage? - I could not see any. The position of the man would be such that he would receive the first discharge. One would have expected to find a mark on the head, for the father had a burn on the crown of his head, but the boy had nothing as far as he could discover; no external signs, anyhow. The girl had a certain amount of mild paralysis, but the father was only dazed, like a man who had just been knocked out. - The Coroner, summing up, said that was all the evidence he need take. It was a very sad thing. Those people were harvesting and went to the hedge for shelter and during the thunder-storm they were struck by a very vivid flash of lightning, and the deceased was killed immediately, while his father was injured. His verdict would be one of "Accidental Death," and he was sure the sympathy of all went out to the family in their sad trouble. - The deceased was the nephew of MR FRANK HARDING, the esteemed porter-in-charge at Chelfham Station.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 12 September 1928
NORTHAM - Insect Bite Causes Death. Fatal End To Appledore Visit. - The North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, held an Inquiry at Appledore on Monday evening, into the circumstances of the death of MRS ALICE BALE, aged 55 years, of Lock House, Roath Dock, Cardiff. - Dr W. A. Valentine said he was called on Thursday to deceased, who said she felt very ill. Her temperature was 102. She complained of her throat, but witness could not find anything there. In the middle of the forehead was a black spot smaller than a threepenny bit, surrounded by a red ring as big as half-a-crown. She said she thought she had caught a cold, and when he saw her again the following day she said she was still very ill. Witness ordered fomentations. The black spot had grown to the size of a sixpence, but MRS BALE told him that she had no recollection of being bitten or stung. Witness found behind deceased's right ear another bladder full of black fluid. On Saturday witness found deceased had laryngitis, so he ordered that her throat be fomented. He came to the conclusion that it was something to do with a bite, for laryngitis would be caused by a chill or infection and he could not find any cause for infection excepting the two complaints he mentioned. The cause of death, he said, was sudden heart failure caused by laryngitis due to septicaemia. Deceased's blood must have been in a very bad resisting condition. - In answer to Police-Inspector Parr, Dr Valentine said he was satisfied deceased had been bitten by an insect. - The husband, ALFRED BALE, dock foreman, Roath Dock, Cardiff, said his wife was never very strong. She had been in an Infirmary at Cardiff six weeks before coming to Appledore on August 21st. He understood she was anaemic. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

North Devon Journal, Thursday 26 September 1929
WESTON-SUPER-MARE, SOMERSET - Old Lyntonian's Death At Weston-Super-Mare. - MR GEORGE COMER, a native of Lynton, the oldest town crier in England, and aged 92 years, fell from a ladder while in the act of plastering a wall at his residence, at Weston-super-Mare on Wednesday and was killed instantaneously. On the day of his death MR COMER was crying announcements in public. - At the Inquest it was stated that MR COMER mounted an almost vertical ladder against the side of his house. to do plastering and falling backwards, received a fracture of the skull. MR COMER'S son said he frequently had words with his father about mounting ladders at his age, but the old man scoffed at danger. He never saw fear. - The Coroner said MR COMER was a fine old gentleman who, at ninety-two, felt that his work was anything but finished. - Jurors recalled the fact that at 88 MR COMER purchased a motor-car and learned to drive, but relinquished it for a self-propelled tricycle. He was a teetotaller of seventy years standing.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 10 October 1929
BURRINGTON - Victim Of The Storm. - The North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, conducted an Inquest on ALBIN BOARD, on Monday, the farm labourer whose body was found in a deep pool under Black Bridge, Burrington. BOARD, who was aged 65, and lived at Hansford-cottages, Burrington, had been to the Fortescue Arms Hotel, Southmolton Road, on Saturday night for his tobacco, but was delayed in returning owing to the violence of the storm. Eventually he left shortly before 10 p.m., but never reached home. - A search next morning revealed his stick and hat near Black Bridge, a culvert over an accumulation of surface water, and later his body was found in a pool which, owing to the storm, had become several feet deep. - The Coroner, after giving a verdict of "Accidental Death by Drowning" said: "In my opinion that place is most dangerous. It is a scandal the Bridge had been allowed to go on in that condition for so long." He could quite imagine the man slipping down between the broken parts of the bridge.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 10 October 1929
ROSE ASH - North Devon Hunting Tragedy. Lady's Sad Death. - Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner for North Devon, conducted an Inquest at Rose Ash on Thursday on ELEANOR KEMBERLEY HARLE, killed through falling from her pony while hunting with the Dulverton Foxhounds near Rose Ash. - Mrs Hancock, wife of the joint master, stated that no one saw the accident. MISS HARLE'S pony was found running loose and when witness went back she found deceased lying on her back at the foot of a hedge. It appeared as if the pony deceased had been riding "packed" while jumping the hedge - which was a small one of about five feet - caught its foot and the rider was thrown over the animal's head. Several other riders had gone over the hedge, which was quite an easy one. - MRS WINIFRED WARD, sister of deceased, of Elberton, Gloucestershire, said MISS HARLE, aged 39 years, although not riding to any great extent before coming to Devonshire from Gloucestershire, had hunted regularly for three years. It was not known, however, that the pony she was riding at the time of her death could not jump. - Dr Lowe of Tiverton, said death, which was instantaneous, was due to a fractured neck. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

North Devon Journal, Thursday 10 October 1929
GREAT TORRINGTON - Torrington Man Takes His Life. Victim Of Delusions Regarding Work. - JOSHUA GORDON, 54, carpenter, was early on Tuesday morning found in the kitchen of his house at Calf-street, Torrington, suffering from severe injuries to his throat. An ordinary table knife had been used, and the unfortunate man passed away shortly after the arrival of a doctor. - At the Inquest, before Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner for North Devon, last evening, STANLEY GORDON, son, said that his father had been unwell for ten days suffering from delusions about his work. Between 5 and 6 a.m. on Tuesday deceased went downstairs, closely followed by another son, ALBERT. After getting something to drink the deceased returned to his bedroom, but a little later they heard a shout: "I have killed myself," and on going downstairs witness found his father in the kitchen bleeding from a wound in the throat. Deceased had never previously threatened to take his life. - Albert Darch, of the Town Mills, stated that deceased had been in his employ since 1918 and had been a perfect workman. During the past few weeks he had delusions about not doing his work right and he (Mr Darch) had suggested he should take a holiday. GORDON, however, again came on the 7th and said if he confessed all his wrongs they would get the shock of their life and tried to go to the river to drown himself, being stopped in the act. - Dr S. Pridham stated that he had suggested GORDON should be removed to an Institution on the morning of the 7th, but this was objected to by the wife. - STANLEY GORDON, recalled, said it would have killed his mother if his father had been put away to the Institution suggested. - The Coroner thought the family were wrong in opposing the doctor's suggestion. They themselves were only to blame for what had occurred; if the man had been removed to an Institution he would have been living that day. In returning a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind," he, however, expressed sympathy with the family in their trouble.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 17 October 1929
COMBE MARTIN - Victim Of Fits. - "Accidental Death" was recorded by the North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, at an Inquest on ELLEN ADAMS, aged 62, wife of JAMES ADAMS, a mason, who fell downstairs on October 7 while in a fit and died of her injuries on Monday. - The widower said his wife had been subject to fits for several years and had often fallen and hurt herself. He was at work when the accident happened.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 7 November 1929
LANDKEY - Collided With Wall At Landkey. Motor Cyclist's Fatal Wobble. - There was a tragic occurrence at Landkey village on Friday evening, CHARLES STANLEY KINGDON, lorry driver, sustaining fatal injuries by crashing with his motor cycle against a wall in an effort to avoid some bullocks in the roadway. The deceased, who was only seventeen years of age, was the son of MR and MRS J. KINGDON, of Landkey. - The Inquest took place in the reading room on Monday, before Mr G. W. F. Brown, County Coroner for North Devon, who was assisted by a Jury, of which Mr G. P. Gammon was chosen Foreman. - Outlining the facts, the Coroner said deceased had quite recently purchased a motor-cycle and had only been on it once or twice. On Friday evening last he left his home with the intention of going to Barnstaple. In the village of Landkey he met a drove of bullocks and evidently tried to get through them and in doing so his machine began to wobble. He cleared the animals, however, and then ran straight into the wall, sustaining terrible injuries to his head, from which he died shortly afterwards. From the evidence of eye-witnesses the Coroner did not think it would be found that blame was attaching to anyone. - HANNAH KINGDON, deceased's mother, said her son was a lorry driver for Mr Hill, of Landkey. He had recently purchased a motor-cycle, not having ridden a similar machine of his own before. Whether he had ridden anyone else's she did not know. He was not an expert motor-cyclist and that was an old pattern machine. - Frederick Collins, aged 15, said he was employed to drive nine bullocks from Barnstaple to Swymbridge, having with him another lad named Parsley. They left Barnstaple about 4.50 and got to Landkey about 6.10. They had one of the bullocks lame, and could not get along very fast. At Landkey he saw a motor-cyclist 20 yards away and shouted to him, but he did not seem to hear. After going through the bullocks he ran into the wall. Some bullocks were on the right-hand side of the road and two were on the left-hand side. Deceased went between them. He and Parsley were behind the animals. Deceased just missed witness and went into the wall. He saw the motor-cyclist wobble. Replying to the Jury as to whether he did not think one drover should be in front of the bullocks and one behind, witness replied that he did think so. - William Parsley, the other drover, gave similar evidence and said he stepped back to allow a pony and trap to pass. They both shouted to the motor-cyclist. - Lilian Parker, a domestic, employed at Plyms House, who witnessed the accident, said she was in company with another girl, Edith Wheaton. Deceased had a light on his machine. She did not think he saw the bullocks; he was travelling at a moderate speed. The machine went straight until he was amongst the animals and then he appeared to wobble. When he got through them he collided with the wall. - Dr S. R. Gibbs said the death was due to a fractured skull. Deceased had very extensive injuries to the head and the case was hopeless from the first. He lad must have been unconscious from the moment of the injury. - The Coroner, returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," said that the young fellow was riding a 1912 pattern machine and one very peculiar to handle. He commented that there was no law compelling people when driving cows for one to walk in front and one behind, or that a light should be carried. - Our representative was informed at Landkey that subsequently the same herd of bullocks were in collision with a motor-car, but no serious injuries resulted. - The Funeral. - General manifestations of sympathy marked the funeral at the Parish Church, which immediately followed the Enquiry. - The Vicar, Rev. T. A. B. Panther, officiated and there was a representative attendance present of friends and acquaintances, for deceased was generally esteemed in the village. There were also representatives of the Landkey Young Men's Institute present, of which deceased was a keen member. - The principal mourners were the mother, Messrs. W. and F. Kingdon (brothers), the Misses D. and N. Kingdon (sisters), Mrs Hawkins (aunt), Mr E. Hawkins (cousin), Mr and Mrs C. Kingdon (uncle and aunt), Mrs Balman, West Buckland (aunt), Miss O. Ballman (cousin), Mr P. Holloway (uncle), and Miss H. Holloway (cousin).

North Devon Journal, Thursday 12 December 1929
HARTLAND - The Hartland Wreck. Coroner And "Wild Rumours." Inquest On Wireless Operator. - Mr G. W. F. Brown, North Devon Coroner, held an Inquest at Stoke Barton, Hartland, on Tuesday, on the body of ERNEST PERCY MEREDITH, 28, of Cardiff, who was the wireless operator on board the s.s. "Radyr" which, as reported in another column, foundered off Welcombe in the great storm of Saturday. - Stanley Vanstone, farm labourer, said he found the body fully dressed and Herbert Webber, of Blagberry, Hartland, stated he assisted to get the body up. - Henry George Libby, coastguard, of Hartland, said he was on duty at Hartland Quay on Saturday, from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. He was in communication with no-one else, because the telephone wires were down practically everywhere. There was a very heavy gale blowing, and a terrific sea. He saw no signs of any vessel in distress, and was sure that nothing had been seen from Hartland Point either. He did not think any signals were made. In reply to the Coroner, who mentioned that several newspapers had stated that flares were seen, witness said he knew nothing of that. The "Radyr" was not sighted by any coastguards. Since the date of the wreck he had been to Welcombe Mouth, where 50 or 60 hatchway covers and three lifebelts were washed in. Two of the lifebelts bore the name "Jurn," and the other was simply a Board of Trade one. - The Coroner: Have you discovered since that "J.U.R.A" and "Radyr" are the same? - He could not say. - The Coroner: I believe it is so. (Mr J. P. Carrel, consulting and superintendent engineer for the Rupert Phillips Steamship Co., of Cardiff, confirmed the Coroner's remarks). Witness added that he did not know where the ship had foundered, but he did not think it was off Hartland. The Coroner: Having regard to the wreckage washed in at Welcome and the wind at the time, is it not likely that she founded at Welcombe or below? - Yes, sir; the other side of Welcombe. - Could you see far on the morning in question? - No; it was misty and there was driving rain. Replying to a further question, witness said everything possible was done by the look-outs all along the coast. He agreed that it was one of the worst gales they had had for many years. - Mrs M. Meredith of London, identified the body as that of her son. She last saw him in December of last year. - John Philip Carrel said the "Radyr" belonged to his Company, and was formerly the "J.U.R.A." of Havre. She was 3,200 dead weight tonnage approximately and the registered tonnage was 2,357. She was loaded with coal and sailed from Cardiff at 7.15 a.m. on Friday, December 6th for Bordeaux. There were 21 officers and men on board. She was built in 1918. Asked by the Coroner if he knew the names of the crew, witness produced an official crew list which he had received from the owners that day. He had seen, in addition to the body of MEREDITH, the bodies of three other men now lying at Northam. He recognised two of them as definitely being members of the crew, but did not know their names. The third, that of a coloured man, he was not able to identify, but there were several foreigners on board, mostly Greeks, and the steward was a half-caste. He could not say whether there was a man of colour on board or not, but it was quite possible. - P.C. Tonkin produced the papers and other personal effects found on deceased. These were handed to the mother. - In answer to the Coroner, MRS MEREDITH said her son was married, but had no family. - The Coroner, summing up, said that was one of those sad cases which they were frequently faced with around their coast, although he had not had to deal with so tragic a case as the wreck of the "Radyr" for twenty years, since the "Thistlemore" went down a little further up the coast towards Bideford. He thought there was no doubt whatever that in this terrible sea the boat was opposite or below Welcombe when she sent out her final S.O.S. although she did not give her position, which was most unusual. The message simply was "Taking to boats." The prevailing south-west wind indicated that the wreck occurred below Welcombe and not above. All sorts of wild rumours that signals of distress were sent up and not seen had been quite disposed of by the evidence of the Coastguard. He was afraid the tremendous seas washed the hatches off, and one of the waves completely filled the ship, causing her to founder with all hands. His verdict was one of "Accidental Drowning owing to the foundering of the s.s. "Radyr" off the coast of Devon on the 7th December." He as sure the sympathy of all on that coast went out to the families of the crew. He trusted all the bodies would be recovered. - Mr Carrel expressed the deep sympathy of the owners with all the relatives. NORTHAM - Subsequently the Coroner opened an Inquest at Northam vestry room upon three unidentified bodies washed up, two at Westward Ho and the other at Crow Island, Braunton. The body washed up at Crowe and one of the two recovered at Westward Ho were yesterday identified by relatives as FRANCISCO SANCHEZ, 60, of 37 Louisa-street, Cardiff and JOHN FAVIS, 37, of 99 Stanway-road, Ely, Cardiff, who were two of the firemen on the ill-fated s.s. "Radyr."

North Devon Journal, Thursday 12 December 1929
SOUTH MOLTON - The Southmolton Fatality. - On Tuesday Mr G. W. F. Brown held an Inquest at Southmolton, concerning the death of HENRY JOHN HUXTABLE, 19, an employee of the Exe Valley Electricity Company, who was killed on Monday, as the result of coming in contact with a live wire. Mr Leslie Woodhouse Messrs. Riccard and Son, Southmolton) appeared for the relatives, and Mr J. Furse Sanders for the Electricity Company. - Evidence of identification was given by MR F. T. HUXTABLE, a brother. - Mr J. R. Allen, local manager to the Company, said he instructed the deceased, who was a very careful workman, to take a ladder to Mr Cook's field on Monday morning, where certain work was required to be done to a wire that had been broken by a gale, and said that he (Mr Allen) would come along in a few minutes. Those instructions were given in the presence of Leslie James Smale, a youth, who was also employed by the Company. He (witness) was intending to do the actual work himself. - Leslie Smale said that he and deceased took the ladder to the field. The ground was very muddy and HUXTABLE expressed the intention of going back to put on a heavy pair of boots. In witness's opinion, HUXTABLE slipped and in that way came in contact with the wire that killed him. HUXTABLE had said that he thought the wire was "dead." The lad said he was unable to free the deceased from the wire and ran for assistance. Three men came and HUXTABLE was eventually released by the works manager. - Dr Seal said death was due to paralysis of the heart, through an electric shock. - The Coroner said it was an extremely sad case. It appeared that owing to a severe gale on Sunday the wire became broken. The manager, Mr Allen, did his best with it on Sunday afternoon, by earthing it. He thought he might have killed the live wire and broken the fuse, but he was not sure, as he had told them. Next morning he sent the deceased and the boy merely to take a ladder to the field for the purpose of his carrying out the repairs. Nothing was said as to whether the wire was live or dead. The manager had said that the disconnecting fuse was on a pole just outside the field, and that it was his intention to use the ladder for the purpose of disconnecting the current, and make the line dead. After the accident, everything possible was done by the Constable in carrying out the correct method of trying to get artificial respiration, but it was too late. Deceased was killed instantly, with the voltage going through him. He (the Coroner) could not say that any blame attached to anyone; but he thought that a little more caution might be used another time when anything happened with a live wire; it should be put out of action as quickly as possible, before anyone was sent to interfere with it. The verdict was one of "Accidental Death." He was sure that sympathy would go out to the relatives and the Company on the loss of a man. - Mr J. Furse Sanders and Mr Woodhouse acknowledged the Coroner's kind expression.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 19 December 1929
BIDEFORD - Bideford Electrician's Fatal Fall. The Inquest Story. - The North Devon Coroner, Mr G. W. F. Brown, at Bideford, on Wednesday evening, Inquired into the death of PERCIVAL HENRY THOMPSON, aged 20, an electrician in the employ of the Bideford and District Electric Supply Company, who sustained fatal injuries by falling from a ladder on which he was working the previous day. The fatality was recorded in our last issue. - A fellow-workman, Edwin Balment, said deceased rested the ladder against an electric standard to cut away a neutral wire that had been making contact through the wind. It was not touching the live wire at the time. THOMPSON was descending the ladder to move it to a better position to get at the wire when suddenly he fell to the ground. His head was below the live wire, and witness did not think he could have received an electric shock. Witness could not say exactly what caused him to fall. - Wm. James Oxenham, manager of the Company, who saw deceased fall, said it occurred too quickly to say exactly what happened to cause the fall. It was very difficult to see how he could have had an electric shock unless he had his left arm around the pole with a portion of unprotected wrist against it and caught hold of the wire with his bare right hand. Balment, however, had said THOMPSON was below the wires. - Dr Littlewood said deceased had a fracture of the skull and also of the shoulder, but there were no marks of burning on him. He agreed he could have had a shock without being burnt, however. - Mr G. Seldon, solicitor, expressed the employers' deep regret at the occurrence and said deceased was a most trustworthy workman, and very capable. - In returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," the Coroner said he could not say there was any blame attaching to the Company or to their servants in the matter. He was afraid they would not be able to say exactly the cause of deceased falling. - Mr Oxenham also expressed the deep sympathy of himself and the members of the staff at the loss of so valued an employee.

North Devon Journal, Thursday 19 December 1929
NORTHAM - Foundering Of The "Radyr." Two More Inquests. - Mr G. W. F. Brown (North Devon Coroner), conducted two Inquests on bodies washed ashore in the estuary of the Taw at Appledore and Northam yesterday. - The one held at Northam was attended by Mr J. P. Carrell, superintendent engineer of the Rupert Phillips Steamship Company, of Cardiff, the owners of the s.s. "Radyr," and Mrs Boucousis, of Cardiff, whose husband, a Greek, was a member of the crew of the vessel. Neither were able to identify the body. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Found Drowned," name unknown. At the second Inquest at Instow, Mr Carrell said he identified the body as that of MR J. M. STORM, second engineer of the "Radyr." MR STORM lived at Pontyminster, Monmouth. He was aged about 50. - The Coroner, who observed that practically a new lifebelt was on the body, returned a verdict of "Drowning owing to the foundering of the s.s. "Radyr."