Inquests Taken Into Suspicious Or Unexplained Deaths

For the County of Devon

Articles taken from the Western Morning News and Western Evening Herald

[printed in Plymouth.]

1920

Transcribed by Lindsey Withers

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

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

Names Included:-  Abbott; Able; Adams; Adlam; Anger; Arnold; Arscott; Bacchus; Baker(2); Ball; Barrett; Baskerville; Bath; Beck; Beer(2); Bell; Bennett; Bickle; Blake; Boot; Boundy; Bowering; Bowhay; Boyne; Bragg; Brass; Brown(2); Buck; Bunster; Burt; Cahill; Calimasiotes; Card; Cashen; Casley; Chandler; Charleslock; Clarke; Clemas; Coad; Coles; Coombe; Cooper(3); Cornish; Coventry; Craig; Critchley; Crook; Cross; Damerell; Davis; Deane; Derbyshire; Dewell; Dodd; Doidge; Donovan; Doyle; Easden; Edgcombe; Edwards(2); Eggar; Evea; Fairweather; Faulconer; Featherstone; Fitzgerald; Folland; Fone; Ford(2); Galsworthy; Gatehouse; Gawman; Gay; Gibbs; Gilbourne; Glanville; Gough; Goulder; Green; Griffen; Griffin; Hambley; Harris(2); Hart; Harvey; Hawkins; Haywood; Hicks; Hine; Howe; James; Jeffery(2); Johns; Kellaway; Kellow; Kelly; Kilgannon; King; Kingdon; Kinsman; Kitson; Lance; Lane; Laughlin; Lawrence; Lawry; Laws(3); Leaman; Leddon; Leonard; Lillie; Linnington; Linter; Livingstone; Longdon; Luke; Luscombe; Manning; Marks; Marsh; Martin(3); Masey; Mather; Maunder; Medder; Milford; Moir; Mole; Moule; Moyes; Munn; Murley; Murrell; Nankivell; Netherton; Newcombe; Nicholas; Nunez; Oliver(2); Osborne; Palmer(2); Parker; Parsons; Pawley; Peardon; Peatheyjohns; Peters; Phillips; Pike; Pitt; Plant; Porter; Reddy; Reece; Rich; Rogers(2); Rowe(2); Salley; Sarah; Saunders(2); Scoble; Screech; Shelton; Shepherd(2; Short; Shrimplin; Sillence; Sims; Smith(4); Smout; Smyth; Snell; Soper; Spurrier; Stephens; Stevens; Stingthorp; Stitson; Sykes; Szarkawski; Tabb; Thomas(3); Tinion; Tooze; Tunstall; Varcoe; Viall; Vickery; Vinecombe; Waddling; Ward; Warne; Warren; Watt; Webber; Whitehill; Whittaker; Whitton; Williams(2); Winnicott; Wood(2); Wooldridge; Wyatt; Yearling; Yeates.

Western Morning News, Friday 2 January 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - The Devonport Coroner held an Inquest last evening at Ker-street Police Court, Devonport, on EDWARD GEORGE BUNSTER, aged 71, an old-age pensioner, late of 1 Cross-street, Devonport, who was found dead in a watermen's shelter at Northcorner on Wednesday. - Mrs A. A. Austin said deceased lodged with her until a fortnight ago. He had complained recently of illness and had had medical attention. - P.C. Healey said that at 3 a.m. on Wednesday he was on duty at Northcorner, and in the watermen's shelter discovered the dead body. He removed it to the Mortuary. - Dr T. McElwaine stated that a post-mortem examination revealed death to be due to pneumonia. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 2 January 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - The Devonport Coroner returned a verdict of "Accidentally Suffocated" at an Inquest last evening on BESSIE MAUD HAYWOOD, aged 10 weeks, daughter of MRS E. M. HAYWOOD, Donegal-terrace, Stoke. The child was found dead in bed beside her mother on Wednesday, having, according to the evidence of Dr J. Ingra, been evidently overlain. It was suffering from a slightly congested lung, which caused it to succumb more quickly than would otherwise have been the case. - The Coroner pointed out that it was a dangerous practice for parents to have their infants in bed with them.

Western Morning News, Saturday 3 January 1920
EXMOUTH - Ex-Soldier's Suicide. - An Inquest was held at Exmouth yesterday on CHARLES HENRY PIKE, a discharged soldier, Devonshire R., who was found in an orchard with his throat cut. - The evidence of the widow was that her husband, aged 33, was in bad health and depressed since his return from Egypt in November. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity," and gave their fees to the widow.

Western Morning News, Saturday 3 January 1920
AVETON GIFFORD - Jutland Survivor. Aveton Gifford Tragedy Of Wrecked Constitution. - The little village of Aveton Gifford has been shocked by the tragic death of a much respected young naval seaman, ARTHUR EDGCOMBE, 27 years. He took part in the Jutland battle, serving in H.M.S. Warrior. The ship was blown up, and he was wounded. A brother of deceased was also in the same battle, being drowned when H.M.S. Defence was sunk. Since then deceased had been suffering from shock and had been given light duty in H.M.S. Resolution, Devonport. He was married about twelve months ago and leaves a widow but no family. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest at Aveton Gifford yesterday. - The widow stated her husband was home on Christmas leave. He had been very much upset since the Jutland battle, but she did not know any reason for his taking his life. - FREDERICK EDGCOMBE, a brother, said he did not see his brother for three years, as he was serving in the Army, but when he met him he noticed there was a change, and that his brother was very nervous. Deceased could not stand the report of a gun when they went rabbiting. Deceased called on his father about 8 p.m. on Tuesday and left again about 8.30 to return home, and he then appeared exceptionally quiet. As he had not returned home at 9.30 a search was made. They found deceased at the back of his father's cottage, with his throat cut. Deceased died about a quarter of an hour after being found. - P.C. Sandercock said he had known deceased for 13 years, and since the Jutland battle he had noticed a considerable change in him. Previous to that he was a very robust man. - Dr W. H. Andrews, Modbury, said the cause of death was haemorrhage from the wound, which was self-inflicted. Warrant Officer Lendy, H.M.S. Resolution, said deceased had been under him for the past three years and he could say everything in his favour. He was a hard worker, but very nervous and was over eager to oblige. He had been under treatment for shock. - The Coroner said he was satisfied deceased took his life whilst temporarily insane, due to nervous condition in consequence of war service. He expressed sympathy with the family.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 6 January 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Boy's Death. Had "The Movies" Anything To Do With It? - The lamentable tragedy of a Plymouth boy who on Saturday night took his own life was investigated yesterday by Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner. The facts presented suggested that GEORGE JOHN EGGAR, aged 13 ½ of 71 Belgrave-road, was led to the act of suicide by the hyper-sensitiveness of his nature. His father said on Saturday afternoon he discovered his younger son, a lad of 8, to have been buying cigarettes both for himself and his brother from Mr Tyzack, a shopkeeper in Belgrave-road. His son GEORGE was in Belgrave-road Picture House at the time and witness went to give information to the Police at Mutley Police Station concerning Mr Tyzack's sale of cigarettes to a boy under 16 years. A Constable went with him to the shopkeeper and as they stood in the shop GEORGE, coming out of the Picture House caught sight of them, and apparently scenting trouble ran away. Witness went home to tea and as by 7.30 p.m. GEORGE had not returned he began to feel a little anxious and went to look for him. Throughout the evening and night he searched and at 7 o'clock on Sunday morning found his son in the lowest of the pathfields between Lipson Vale and Lower Compton, hanging from the limb of a tree by his necktie, dead. - The Coroner: Was he in any way a curious boy? - Witness: No, he was just the ordinary boy, happy enough at home. He was never kept short. I had never had occasion previously to scold him for smoking and there was no other trouble hanging over his head at home. - The Coroner elicited that the boy went to the pictures at times, just as other boys did. He was very sensitive. - The Coroner: Probably the pictures had something to do with it. It is a very curious case. - Dr F. E. Price said death was due to strangulation. A verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 10 January 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE -Suffocated By Milk. - An Inquest was held at Stonehouse yesterday on NADA ROSEMARY BACCHUS, aged 16 days, who was found dead in her cot on Thursday. - A verdict was returned to the effect that the child was suffocated by inhaling milk into her lungs.

Western Evening Herald, Saturday 10 January 1920
PLYMOUTH - A Plymouth Inquest. - A verdict of death from "Natural Causes" was returned at an inquest today upon JOHN THOMAS BALL, aged 59, a retired chief E.R.A., R.N. Deceased lived at 52 Trelawney-road, Peverell, and on the 8th inst. was taken suddenly ill and died. - MRS ADA FULLTHORPE, his daughter, said that deceased had suffered with his heart, and Dr Cowardin certified that death was due to heart failure through fatty degeneration. Mr R. B. Johns, the Coroner, recorded a verdict as stated.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 13 January 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Soldier's Death. Sequel To Surreptitious Drinking. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Military Hospital, Devonport, yesterday on PTE. JOSEPH CAHILL, 34, K.O.S.B., who was found dead in the cells at the Raglan Barracks on Saturday morning. - Pte. J. Clarke said at 10.20 on Friday night deceased came into "D" Co.'s Room, and, sitting down on another man's bed, produced a bottle half full of whisky and a glass. Witness and another soldier were there. Deceased drank the whisky raw and very rapidly. When witness told him to go steady he replied: "It will take a lot of this to put me out." He drank practically the whole of it himself, and had been drinking previously. He had no right in that room. Sgt.-Maj. Howe and three men of the guard came to the room and arrested the three of them. When they were in the cells witness heard deceased shouting in the night as though he wanted to get out and as if he was drunk. He had often seen deceased the worse for drink. - Sgt.-Maj. J. J. Howe said on Friday night he ordered the light in "D" Co. room to be put out three times, but on each occasion it was re-lit. He then went to the room and arrested the three men. Deceased was very violent. There were several ways by which deceased could obtain whisky without leaving the barracks. It had been done before. He did not know whether deceased had been out that evening. - Cpl. J. McConnon said he saw deceased in the cell at 2 a.m. and 4 a.m., and he appeared to be sleeping. - L.-Cpl. R. Hunter deposed to finding the three men drinking in the barrack-room. Deceased was very violent in the cells. At 6.30 on Saturday morning, when he went to waken the prisoners, deceased seemed to rouse when witness knocked at his cell door and witness went away. - Evidence was also given by Sgt. George Yardley as to deceased's condition. - Pte. T. Bissett said when he took deceased's breakfast to him he found he was dead. His face was blue and he appeared to have been vomiting. - Capt. W. R. D. Hamilton, R.A.M.C., Raglan Barracks, said the cell was 12ft. by 14 ft. When witness was called deceased was dead. - Capt. L. A. Burke Moore, R.A.M.C., Military Hospital, said as the result of a post-mortem examination he found that death was due to asphyxia, and there were a few signs of alcoholic excesses. - Verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 14 September 1920
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, at an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday, recorded the verdict that WILLIAM BAKER, 22 Cambridge-lane, died from the effects of injuries received by being accidentally knocked down by a motor van in Union-street, Plymouth on January 10.

Western Evening Herald, Monday 19 January 1920
PLYMOUTH - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned at an Inquest today by Mr R. B. Johns, the Plymouth Coroner on the death of ANNIE THOMAS, aged 74, a widow living in the Corporation Almshouses, whom Dr Jamieson certified as suffering from haemorrhage.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 20 January 1920
PLYMOUTH - Rail Motor Fatality. Brixton Woman's Death At Millbay Station. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on EDITH ANNIE COLES, of Church Cottages, Brixton, who met with an accident at Millbay Station on Saturday afternoon while alighting from a rail motor train, which had not come to a complete standstill. - James Henry Tippett, Ashford-road, Plymouth, Great Western Railway ticket collector, said as the car was slowing down he saw deceased, who was accompanied by another lady, proceed towards the door as if they intended to alight. Deceased gripped the hand rail and then attempted to jump on to the platform. She fell between the leading and rear trailers and became jammed between the rear trailer and the platform. With assistance he removed deceased, who, however, was dead. - Harold Wm. Butland, rail motor conductor, of Staddon-terrace, Plymouth, said he thought it was quite safe when he opened the doors. He could not prevent anyone getting out, as he had to go to the other end of the car and open the doors there. - The widower (MR F. COLES): Why did you open the doors before the train stopped? - Witness: Because I had two sets of doors to open, and it was impossible for me to be at both places at the same time. - Dr F. Wilmot said the majority of deceased's ribs were fractured. The liver was ruptured, while there was also extensive haemorrhage into the abdomen. Death would have been instantaneous. - The Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, said the case was very unfortunate, but people tried every day to get out of trains before they came to a standstill. - Mr G. Ackland represented the G.W.R. Co.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 20 January 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Suicide. Cancer Victim's Despairing Letter To His Wife. - At Ker-street Police Station last evening Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, held an Inquest on GEORGE FREDERICK OSBORNE, aged 58, of Prospect-row, Devonport. - Dr T. McElwaine said death was due to gas poisoning. - ELLEN LUCY OSBORNE, daughter, said her father had been discharged from the Royal Albert Hospital as incurable. Her mother also suffered from cancer. Witness read the following letter from the deceased, which was found on the table in his room. - "My Dearest Wife, - The pains that I am in it is more than I can bear and the pains in my head is like if someone was in there trying to break it all up. Oh, my dear, I don't know what I shall do. My God! My God"! Something seems to be lifting me clean out of my senses. I am losing grip of myself. I should like to say more. But oh God! Oh God! I don't know what I'm doing or saying. - FRED OSBORNE." - The Coroner said in the face of the pain the deceased had suffered for so long a time and of the fact of his wife's illness, he had no hesitation in returning a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane." He expressed sympathy for deceased's wife and daughter.

Western Evening Herald, Tuesday 20 January 1920
PLYMOUTH - An Old Man's Fall. - An Inquest was held by the Plymouth Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, today at Greenbank House into the circumstances attending the death of THOMAS JAMES MEDDER, aged 70, who fell and injured himself on the 2nd inst., and after being medically attended was removed to Greenbank Infirmary where he died on Sunday. - Dr C. J. Cooke stated that the deceased was admitted suffering from injuries to his head, caused, it was stated, by the fall. Witness made a post-mortem examination and found that death was due to a fracture on the left side of the skull and haemorrhage on the opposite part of the brain, caused, in his opinion, by the fall. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Tuesday 20 January 1920
PLYMOUTH - The Missing Engineer. - Mr R. B. Johns, Plymouth Borough Coroner, held an Inquest today and returned a verdict of "Found Drowned" in the case in which the body of a man, CHARLES EDWARD BRASS, aged 47, chief engineer on a tug, was found floating yesterday in Gas House Creek. - Evidence was given that the deceased was missed from the tug on Christmas Eve when it was in the port before proceeding on its way to Liverpool.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 21 January 1920
BURLESCOMBE - Woman Pays. Burlescombe Girl's Body In Canal. - At Burlescombe yesterday an Inquest was held by Mr H. W. Gould on RHODA TOOZE, 22, daughter of MR WILLIAM SAMUEL TOOZE, of Ashbrittle, whose body was found in the canal on Sunday. - Mr Archibald Carnes, Park-street, Taunton, legging manufacturer, said deceased had been in his employ four years and was an excellent servant. She left his house on January 3, saying she wanted to go somewhere, and did not return. On the Sunday following he found a letter, closed and stamped which the Police opened. - The Coroner read the letter, which was: "17 Park-street, Taunton: Many thanks for your very cheering letter of New Year's Day, saying I must face it and bear it all. I am afraid I cannot see things as you do. You ask me to let you know what I intend doing. Well, when you get this you will know. I am leaving this behind to be posted on to you. You know I have told you all through that I cannot bear the disgrace of it. You think it a very small matter but you do not know what it means to me. Life would never be worth living after that, I have decided I will end it. You say in your letter about being enemies over it. I told you long ago that I had forgiven you. Isn't that enough? You also say that I am the first who has ever said you are of a selfish nature and to think a minute. Well, I have thought it over for more than a minute and I am still of the same opinion and I'm thinking others would think the same did they but know it all. But I don't think they will ever know as I am not likely to tell them. You once said this would be a lesson to you. I sincerely hope it will. I would advise you in the future not to make promises you have no intention of keeping. Someone belonging to me will surely write you. I have told them nothing - the thing is too painful. I trust you will tell them what they want to know. I think I have now answered all your questions." - The Coroner: That is addressed to a man?. - The Father: Cannot he be brought forward? - The Coroner: If you think his attendance necessary I will adjourn the Inquest. Has she been keeping company with this man in Taunton? - The Employer said the man was at Taunton in August with a motor bike and side-car and deceased went for several rides with him, but he had not been there since to witness's knowledge. - The Coroner: Do you know his name? - No. - Dr Browne gave evidence as to deceased's condition. - The Coroner said the Police had failed to trace the man, who was travelling about the country. Apparently deceased intended to go and see her father to disclose her condition, but her courage failed her at the last moment and she took her life. He returned a verdict of "Suicide," and having regard to her condition and all the circumstances he was quite willing to believe she was not of sound mind at the time.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 28 January 1920
PLYMOUTH - Found Drowned. The Discovery In Sutton Pool. - An Inquest was held this morning by Mr R. B. Johns, the Plymouth Coroner, upon the body of WILLIAM THOMAS GILBOURNE, the R.G.A. gunner who was found in Sutton Pool. - Bombardier Warne identified the body, and said deceased bore an excellent character and was very quiet. - Gunner Young last saw GILBOURNE on Sunday evening, and he was then quite well and cheerful. - William Stevens gave evidence of finding the body and Dr McNair said there were no marks of violence and nothing to show how deceased got into the water. - A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Tuesday 3 February 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - A Stoker's Suicide. On Board H.M.S. Phaeton At Plymouth. - A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned by the County Coroner, Mr R. R. Rodd at an Inquest held at the Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, today, on the body of JAMES LILLIE, aged 27, first class stoker on H.M.S. Phaeton, who was said to be of Irish descent. - The evidence showed that after having been absent for thirty hours deceased returned to the ship on the 29th ult., but on the following morning when defaulters were called could not be found. Deceased was described as an habitual leave breaker and of a morose disposition. - William Arthur Stephenson, artificer-engineer, H.M.S. Phaeton, said in consequence of a bad smell on board in the early hours of the 1st inst., a search was instituted to ascertain its cause, and deceased was found in the bilges of B2 boiler. He was in a half-sitting position with a portion of yarn round his neck, and the other portion attached to a bracket. The boiler was in use 20 hours previous to the discovery of deceased. - Frank Macdonald, first-class stoker, said he last saw deceased alive on the upper deck, near the 4-in. gun, which was situated outside the entrance to the boiler room. He asked deceased why he had not "turned in," and he replied "I can't sleep." - Surgeon Lieut.-Commander Burdett, described the body as very much decomposed. The piece of yarn around his neck, was embedded to such an extent as to cause suffocation. Decomposition was greatly accelerated by heat from the boiler. Death was due to suffocation and there was not the slightest evidence of foul play. - The Coroner took the view, having regard to the fact that deceased was a defaulter expecting punishment, and that he had not been able to sleep, that he committed the act in a fit of Temporary Insanity.

Western Evening Herald, Tuesday 3 February 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - Railway Fatality. Verdict Of "Accidental Death" At Plymouth. - The circumstances relating to the death of JOHN FITZGERALD, aged 39, an able seaman on H.M.S. Rinaldo, who received fatal injuries while crossing the line at Ford Halt (G.W.R.), Devonport, on Saturday night, were Inquired into by Mr R. R. Rodd at the Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, this morning. - Evidence of identification was given by MICHAEL FITZGERALD, a brother, chief torpedo gunner, R.N., of 34 Tamar-avenue, Keyham. He said the passenger exit from Ford Halt was perfectly clear, and no blame could be attributed to the Railway Company. - In crossing the line deceased, who was slightly deaf, would merely save about thirty yards. - Stanley Charles Stoneman, railway porter at Ford Halt, who collected tickets from passengers alighting from the motor train, spoke to witnessing deceased, after the train had moved on, make for the level crossing, and attempt to cross over to the other side. Knowing that a goods train was approaching witness shouted to deceased to stop, but he did not do so. Deceased was discovered later lying between the near up rail and the platform. - Alfred Lakey, 24 Percy-terrace, Lipson, the driver of the goods train, said it was travelling at the rate of twenty miles an hour. When approaching Ford Halt he noticed the Devonport distant signal was at danger and blew his whistle twice. He noticed nothing afterwards, however. - Surgeon-Lieut.-Commander Stephens, House Surgeon, R.N. Hospital, said the dead body was brought to the Hospital at 11.15 p.m. He found from a post-mortem examination a severe blow behind the left ear, producing haemorrhage inside the skull, and compressing the brain, which caused death. Five ribs fractured on the left side had lacerated the lung. There were superficial abrasions on the left forearm, right knee and left chin. Deceased probably fell on his head, but there was no fracture of the skull. The injuries were consistent with deceased being hit by a railway engine. - It was pointed out that a notice was exhibited at the Halt warning passengers not to cross the line. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Coroner expressing sympathy with the bereaved family, in which expression Mr G. Ackland, representing the Railway Company, joined.

Western Evening Herald, Thursday 5 February 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - Epileptic's Death At Plymouth. - At the Stonehouse Town Hall today the circumstances attending the death of ERNEST EDWARD ARNOLD, aged 20, of 26 Quarry-street, Stonehouse, were Inquired into by the County Coroner, Mr R. Robinson Rodd. - MRS ELIZABETH ARNOLD, mother of the deceased of 26 Quarry-street, Stonehouse, said that deceased had suffered from fits since three years old, but very badly the last seven years. He had never been able to do any work. She found him dead in bed yesterday afternoon just after four o'clock. She spoke to him about midday, but he turned over without speaking. He last had a fit on Tuesday. - Dr W. H. Waterfield, of Stonehouse, said that he had made a post-mortem examination, and found that death was due to asphyxia, caused by a fit. He had known the deceased as an epileptic. - The Coroner returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Evening Herald. Tuesday 10 February 1920
PLYMOUTH - Fell From Third Storey. A Plymouth Child's Death. - About eight o'clock last evening JOHN LIVINGSTONE, aged three, fell out of the third storey window of his home at 2 Martin-lane, and fractured his skull. He was picked up by William Hewins, a stoker on H.M.S. Wolf, and taken to the Homeopathic and General Hospital, where he was treated by Dr Wilmot, but died during the night. - Inquest This Afternoon. - The Inquest was held this afternoon upon JOHN WILLIAM LIVINGSTONE, the three-year-old child who fell out of a window at 2 Martin-lane. - Mr R. B. Johns, the Plymouth Coroner, held the Inquiry at the Homeopathic and General Hospital, where Dr Wilmot, hon. House Surgeon, said that the deceased was brought in last night with a fractured skull, and died without regaining consciousness. Death was due to the cause stated, following a fall. - ELIZABETH CATHERINE LIVINGSTONE, sister and daughter of a dock labourer, said that yesterday afternoon she was looking after the little boy. He went into a room to play with a little girl, and whilst witness was answering a knock at the door of an adjoining room, she heard a scream and ran downstairs. She found that the baby was lying on the ground, having evidently climbed on a bed, which was under the open window. - Emily Page, a neighbour, said she was in the court when something rushed past her and fell to the ground. The window as 21 feet above, and the child was at once taken to the Hospital. - A verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 11 February 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - 'Bus Tragedy. Schoolmaster's Fatal Injuries At Cremyll. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, Devonport, held an Inquest yesterday on ALFRED WILLIAM KINGDON, aged 26, of Molesworth-terrace, Anderton, Assistant Schoolmaster at Liskeard Council School, whose tragic death was announced yesterday. - Dr Sybil Russell, House Surgeon, Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, said deceased was brought to the Hospital on Saturday unconscious, suffering from severe concussion. He died on Sunday. Death was due to a haemorrhage into the brain. The only external mark was a cut on the head. - William Thomas Crawford, D.C.M., said he had had four years' experience as an Army motor driver. He was in the employ of the Millbrook Steamboat Co., and on Saturday was driving the company's motor 'bus. The 'bus was in excellent condition, and had about 20 passengers. About 12.30 p.m. he started from Cremyll, and was going up a hill at about four or five miles an hour when he saw a car coming down the hill. He drove into the hedge. Apparently the 'bus skidded to the left and collided with a telegraph pole, which stood out a little from the hedge. The collision forced the roof off the 'bus. He saw deceased lying in the road with his head injured. The car was about 6 ft. 8 in. wide and the width of the road was about 14 ft. - Roof Pushed Off. - Samuel Bawden, of Cawsand, a passenger in the 'bus, said he was sitting in a rear seat near deceased. The vehicle was full, but no passengers were standing. Soon after then started they heard a smash, the 'bus came to a standstill, and the roof was forced out of position and fell into the road. He did not see deceased knocked out of the car, but on alighting saw him lying on his back in the road with a large pool of blood near his head. Witness ran back to Cremyll and called Dr Payne, who arrived at the scene of the accident soon after. The 'bus was travelling at a perfectly reasonable rate. It was probably the fall of the roof which knocked deceased out of the car. - Henry E. Brookes, of Millbrook, said he was the driver of a Ford car with an attachment on it, and was on his way to Cremyll with three passengers to meet the Cremyll Ferry. As he neared his destination he saw the 'bus driven by Crawford coming up the hill. He eased down his speed to about four miles an hour, and the vehicles passed each other. He heard an exclamation and looking round saw the roof of the 'bus on the road. He pulled up at once. He had driven cars in the district for two years. There was no feeling between the two services and he had no personal animosity towards Crawford. - No Rivalry Desired. - The Coroner said they did not want the old competition between the steamboats to be manifested now with the cars. - Mr Gloyn said he was sitting beside Crawford, who steered the 'bus to the left on the approach of the other car. Witness saw a telegraph post just ahead, and feared they would collide with it. Immediately afterwards there was a crash and he shielded his face from the falling glass with the bag he was carrying. The impact dislodged the roof. The 'bus was being skilfully driven. - Mrs M. A. Porter, passenger in the car driven by Brookes, said they slowed down just before the 'bus passed them. She saw deceased thrown out on his back. She considered Brookes a very steady driver. She thought the 'bus was too wide for some parts of the road. In some places a bicycle could scarcely pass it. - The Coroner said the case was a very sad one. The 'bus was driven by a very great friend of his. He returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." The evidence made it clear that no blame could be attached to anyone. Crawford's testimonials were excellent. A question which would have to be very carefully considered by the owners was whether the 'bus was suitable for the roads. There was nothing in the evidence to show that there was any rivalry between the cars, and he hoped this would never arise, since it would be likely to lead to reckless driving. [Western Morning News, Thursday 12 February 1920 - Cremyll Motor Fatality. - We regret that in our report yesterday of the Inquest by the Coroner for Devonport on ALFRED WILLIAM KINGDON, who was killed in a motor accident at Cremyll, it was stated that the driver of the motor 'bus in which deceased was a passenger was a great friend of the Coroner; it should have been stated that he was a friend of the deceased.]

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 11 February 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - Dockyard Fatality. Fall Into A Dock. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd, the County Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Royal Naval Hospital, this morning, concerning the death of GEORGE COOMBE, aged 45 years, of 99 Charlotte-street, Morice Town, Devonport, who died on Monday. Mr K. Eyton Peck was present representing the Admiralty and Mr H. J. W. Ruse, of Messrs. Albert Gard and Co., represented the relatives. - THOMAS N. COOMBE, a chargeman of rope-makers in H.M. Dockyard, Devonport, of 58 Gloucester-street, Morice Town, said that the deceased was his brother and was a skilled labourer. - James E. Price, chargeman of shipwrights at the Dockyard, of 1 Brunel-terrace, Ford, stated that on Monday about 1.45 p.m. deceased was preparing to drill holes in the bulkhead of the S.S. Gazelle in No. 6 dock under witness's supervision. The vessel had just been docked and the dock was dry. The deceased commenced to go ashore with a hose to connect with the air service on the dock side for drilling purposes. To enable him to do this he passed the end of the hose through a side scuttle in the ship; the end of the hose hanging down over the side. He then climbed over the side of the ship on to a shore supporting the ship. In reaching for the hose the deceased either over-balanced or slipped into the dock, a distance of about 20 feet. The end of the shore was flush with the top of the rubbing streak. It would make a good foothold. The deceased had to trust to his foothold when reaching for the end of the hose. - Answering the Coroner, witness said there was another way for the deceased to have made the connection - by lowering the hose to the bottom of the dock, then proceeding to the shore over the brow, thence to the bottom by means of the steps and bringing the end of the hose up to the air bottle. That was quite a safe way. - Done Almost Daily. - The Coroner: Don't you think he could have been stopped from going the way he did? - Well, sir, it is done almost every day. It is done ninety-nine times out of a hundred. Shipwrights are always walking out on the shores. - Continuing, witness said the shores were slippery. The deceased was a thoroughly good and experienced workman. - Surgeon Commander Walter Turner Haydon, R.N., of H.M. Dockyard, Devonport, stated he was called to see the deceased just before two o'clock on Monday last. Witness saw him in the Dockyard surgery, where deceased was lying unconscious, suffering from a compound fracture of the skull. Several ribs appeared to be fractured. Witness kept him under observation for about forty minutes and decided to send him to the Hospital. - Surgeon-Lieutenant Richard F. Quinton, R.N., R.N. Hospital, Stonehouse, stated that deceased was admitted at three o'clock and died five minutes later. A post mortem examination revealed the fact that death was due to compound fracture of the skull on the left side and base. Six ribs were fractured, the left lung being penetrated. There was also haemorrhage at the base of the brain. - The Coroner adjourned the Inquest until Monday for the attendance of the Factories Inspector.

Western Morning News, Thursday 12 February 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Man's Suicide. Worry Of Unemployment. - Devonport Coroner held an Inquest yesterday on ALFRED GAY, aged 54, of Littleton-place, Devonport. - RICHARD KERSWELL, a cousin, said he saw deceased in Devonport Park on January 30 when he spoke of a paper he had written out willing his property to witness, in the event of anything happening to him. He had been grieving a lot on account of his unemployment. - Samuel A. Pain said he lived in the same house as deceased and said deceased was eccentric. Hearing a noise upstairs on Sunday afternoon witness ran into deceased's room and found him on the floor with his throat cut and a blood-stained razor lying near by. - Dr G. A. Tone said he was called in and found deceased dying of a gash in his throat. Nothing could save him. A shopkeeper living near by said he knew deceased as a customer. He had many times complained that he could get no work and seemed very depressed. P.C. Chapman also gave evidence. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Western Evening Herald, Monday 16 February 1920
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, Plymouth Borough Coroner, held an Inquest this morning at his office, Princess-square, on the body of CHARLOTTE MAUDE MARY PARKER of 36 Salisbury-road, who died from heart failure about 10 p.m. on Thursday last. MR ALBERT PARKER, husband of the deceased, stated she had had influenza some months back. Dr H. B. Palmer was the physician called in. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Monday 16 February 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - Fall Into A Dry-Dock. Adjourned Inquest at R.N. Hospital. Dockyard Regulations. - The adjourned Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death, at the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, last Monday, of a skilled labourer in the Dockyard, named GEORGE COOMBE, of 29 Charlotte-street, Morice Town, Devonport, following a fall into No. 6 Dock, at the Keyham Dockyard, was resumed by the County Coroner, Mr R. Robinson Rodd, at the Hospital this morning. Mr K. Eyton Peck attended on behalf of the Admiralty, whilst Mr H. J. W. Ruse (Messrs. Albert Gard and Co.) watched the proceedings on behalf of the relatives. Mr J. Owner (Factories Inspector) for whose attendance the Inquiry was adjourned last Wednesday, was also present. - At the previous hearing it was stated that COOMBE whilst working on s.s. Gazelle in No. 6 Dock had to go to the dockside with a length of hose. Instead of going by the brow he attempted to cross by means of a shore used in supporting the ship in the dock. In reaching for the hose after landing on the shore he over-balanced or slipped, falling into the dry dock, a distance of about 20 feet, fracturing his skull and several ribs. After attention by Surgeon-Commander W. T. Haydon, he was removed to the Hospital, where he died a few minutes after admission. - The Supervision. - ~James E. Price, chargeman of shipwrights, under whose supervision COOMBS was working, was recalled today, and, in answer to Mr Owner, said that while the man worked under his direction he could not be responsible for the way these men went about that work. It was impossible for him to watch each one. COOMBE could have gone by a safer way (the brown) had he wished. There would have been a little saving in time by going over the shore, but that did not affect COOMBE as he was not a piece-work man. - The Coroner: Are there any instructions in writing on this matter? - Witness: I don't think so. - The Inspector: You have told the Coroner that ninety-nine times out of a hundred these men go ashore by the shore? - Witness: Yes; it is the general practice in small docks, and we should not stop the men if we saw them doing it. I have done it myself. - Witness added that had he seen COOMBE attempting it this time he would have stopped him as the shore was very wet and slippery. - The Coroner: If an order were issued by the Admiral Superintendent of the Yard that these men are not in future to go over these shores could it be carried out? - Witness: It could. - If COOMBE had lowered the hose into the dock and gone ashore the safe way the job would have been done in absolute safety and the man been alive today? - Yes, certainly. - The Inspector: The authorities at the Dockyard have provided all reasonable means of safety in connection with this ship? - They have. - Request To The Admiral-Superintendent. - The Coroner said this case ought never to have occurred. There was a safe way and an unsafe way, and, unfortunately, the latter way was selected. He thought it was done through an error of judgment, and he returned a verdict of "Death from injuries Accidentally received." He asked Mr Peck to request the Admiral-Superintendent of the Yard to issue an order prohibiting men using the shores in this manner. - Mr Peck said he would be pleased to convey such a request to the Admiral.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 24 February 1920
BERE FERRERS - Double Tragedy. Died While Hurrying With News Of A Fatality. - While felling a tree in the company of Joseph S. Crossman at Denham Woods, Bere Ferrers, FRANCIS EDWARD DAVIS (27) was accidentally killed. His cousin, JOHN WALLACE NEWCOMBE (31), on hearing of the tragedy, cycled towards Bere Ferrers Station with the intention of wiring the news to relatives, but he died from heart disease before reaching his destination. - At the Inquest at Bere Ferrers, Joseph Sydney Crossman, a timber feller, said he and DAVIS had to dip a tree in consequence of the impossibility of sawing it owing to its position. When the tree was dipped about twelve inches it suddenly cracked. Witness and DAVIS tried to jump clear, but the latter tripped and fell. The tree fell away from them, but in consequence of a large branch, it rebounded, throwing up the butt end, which fell back across the deceased before he had time to get clear. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. - In the case of NEWCOMBE, the widow stated that when her husband heard of the death of his cousin he set out cycling to the Railway Station to wire the news to relatives. - Alice Davis, of Bere Ferrers, said NEWCOMBE passed her on his bicycle on the way to the Station about 11.45 on Friday forenoon. He then jumped off and witness told him he had ridden up the hill too fast. He was breathing heavily, but replied that he would be all right presently. He then got on his bicycle and rode on, witness again over-taking him at the Rectory gate. He was standing against the opposite wall with his bicycle. Witness spoke to him, but got no reply. He was dead. - Medical evidence showed that deceased died from valvular disease of the heart. - A verdict to this effect was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 25 February 1920
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Fall. Plymouth Watchman's Death In Infirmary. - The death at the Plymouth Workhouse Infirmary on Monday of CHARLES JAMES LEDDON, aged 56, following a fall, was Inquired into by the Plymouth Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, at the Workhouse this morning. - LEDDON, a night-watchman, living at 13 Holborn-street, was admitted to the Infirmary in December suffering from the effects of a stroke. He recovered sufficiently to be up and dressed on January 12th, but on February 9th he had a fresh attack of cerebral haemorrhage and had to return to bed. Last Thursday afternoon Nurse Stewart was in an adjoining ward when she was called to see LEDDON. She found him lying on the floor in a semi-conscious condition. He had his trousers partly on and had evidently been trying to dress himself when he fell to the floor. Dr Cooke (Medical Officer) and the male attendant were called and the man put back to bed. He remained in a semi-conscious condition until he died. - Fractured Skull. - Dr Cooke, who made a post-mortem examination, said deceased had a fracture of the skull. There was also evidence of an old haemorrhage on the surface of the brain which probably accounted for the former symptoms. The actual cause of death was cerebral haemorrhage, though the fall, which was sufficient to cause the fracture, no doubt accelerated death. - "I would like to point out," added the doctor, "that the nursing staff is very short at present. There ought to be a nurse in every ward, but it is impossible under the present conditions as we have several nurses on the sick list." - In answer to Mr Johns, Dr Cooke said that had a nurse been in the ward at the time he did not think she could have done anything to prevent the occurrence. She could not have been in time. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Thursday 26 February 1920
UGBOROUGH - The Wrangaton Suicide. - Mr T. Edmunds, Deputy County Coroner, held an Inquest at the Wrangaton Hotel, Wrangaton, yesterday, respecting the death of CHARLES SOPER, 49, proprietor of the Hotel, formerly manager of the Avon Inn, Avonwick. Deceased was married with a family. Since demobilisation he had been depressed. On Tuesday morning he was discovered hanging from a tree in a lane, a rope halter being tied round his neck. A verdict of "Suicide" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Saturday 28 February 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Window Cleaning Fatality. Inquest At Devonport: A Broken Sash Line. - The circumstances attending the death of WALTER ROBERT PEATHEYJOHNS, a window-cleaner, in the employ of the Three Towns' Window Cleaning Company, was Inquired into by the Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, at the R.N. Hospital yesterday. Mr C. L. Croft watched the proceedings for the Three Towns' Window Cleaning Company. - LEONARD WALTER PEATHEYJOHNS, railway porter, 12 Albert-road, Plymouth, said that deceased was his brother and was 25 years of age. He was an ex-soldier. - Thomas McCleary, also employed by the Three Towns' Window Cleaning Co., explained that deceased and himself were engaged on Wednesday morning in cleaning the windows of the Conservative Club, in Fore-street. Deceased was cleaning the windows of the second floor, and witness was engaged on the ground floor. Hearing a thud, witness turned around, and saw deceased on the ground. Deceased was carried into the Club and then removed to the R.N. Hospital. They had ladders with them, but were not using them. The recognised practice was that if they cleaned the windows inside they got through the window to do the outside. He did not understand how deceased fell. Deceased had cleaned the same windows on previous occasions. He did not think deceased stood in the cornice; he stood on the window sill. - Leonard Godfrey, steward of the Devonport Conservative Club, said that he was in the room when deceased was cleaning the windows. His impression was that deceased was standing on the cornice. One of the sash lines was broken. He heard a thud, and looking out of the window saw deceased on the ground. The appearance of the sash line did not indicate that it was a recent break. - By Mr Croft: He had not called the attention of deceased to the fact that the sash line was broken or that another one was frail. - James Elcombe, window cleaner, said he had been at the Granby Barracks and was proceeding into Fore-street. He saw deceased in the act of pulling down the upper window, when his hand came away; he turned a somersault in mid-air and then fell to the ground. He did not notice where deceased was standing. - The Coroner: Did you look at the sash-lines? - No. Many people had pointed out that the sash-lines were broken, and they were careful. - The Coroner: I can quite see that this sort of thing may happen frequently where sash-lines are broken. - P.C. Bawden having given evidence, the Coroner recorded a verdict of "Accidental Death," and added that it was advisable, in the interest not only of the men employed as window cleaners, but of the Company's staff, that instructions should be given the men to take notice of the state of the sash-lines of the windows they were about to clean. - Mr Croft, on behalf of the Three Towns Window Cleaning Company, and Mr F. G. Moore (Secretary of the Devonport Conservative Club) expressed deep sympathy with the relatives of the deceased.

Western Evening Herald, Saturday 28 February 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - St Budeaux Mystery. Inquest Adjourned For Analyst's Report. - The Devonport Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, opened an Inquiry at the Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, yesterday, touching the death of ROSINA MOLE, who was found dead in Moor-lane, St Budeaux, on Wednesday night. - LEWIS WILLING MOLE, 18 Clifford-terrace, St Budeaux, warrant writer, Royal Navy, identified deceased as his wife, who was 45 years of age. He last saw her alive at 11 a.m. on Wednesday. - This was all the evidence then, the Coroner remarking that it was necessary that the contents of the stomach should be analysed. The contents had been sent to the public analyst at Exeter for that purpose. When he received the result of that analysis he should hold the adjourned Inquest, which, he hoped, would be within a week.

Western Morning News, Monday 1 March 1920
PLYMOUTH - Found Drowned At Plymouth. - Plymouth Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, held an Inquest on Saturday on FRANK FORD, 47 years, whose body was found floating in the Sound at the east end of the Breakwater. - FREDERICK FORD identified the body as that of his brother, a gas fitter, living at Durlston-road, Stoke Newington, London. Deceased left home on January 20, leaving a letter of rather a despondent character, but he had no idea his brother intended suicide. He was in no financial difficulty. - Mr D. J. Crowther, Deputy-King's Harbourmaster, deposed to finding the body on February 26. - P.C. Kitt said he found some papers on the body, but nothing to indicate that the man intended to take his own life. - Dr O. M. Walker said death was due to drowning. - Verdict, "Found Drowned."

Western Evening Herald, Tuesday 2 March 1920
PLYMOUTH - Child's Death From Burns. - The death of a very young child in the S.D. and E.C. Hospital on February 29th as the result of burns sustained on the 24th ult. was Enquired into at Plymouth this morning by Mr John Graves, Deputy Coroner. - JOHN PORTER, labourer, 25 Maidstone-avenue, gave evidence to the effect that his daughter, PHYLLIS MARY, aged 2 years and 9 months, was taken to the Hospital by him at once after he had extinguished the flames that had enveloped her. - Deceased's sister said that last Tuesday morning she was in her bedroom with her little sister when suddenly she saw the little one's nightdress in flames. There was a candle on a table in the room and, presumably, deceased pulled it over or fell on it. Witness did not know what was happening until she heard screams. - Dr Blanche A. M. Henderson, M.B., House Physician, said that death was due to shock. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Tuesday 2 March 1920
PLYMOUTH - A Pole's Sudden Death. - Mr Graves held an Inquest at Plymouth Mortuary this afternoon relative to the death of JOHN ALEXANDER LAWRENCE SZARKOWSKI, a photographer, of Polish descent, who died at No. 7 Summerland-place. - LOUISA SZARKOWSKI, widow, said her husband had been unwell for some time. He passed away suddenly in the early hours of February 28th, and no doctor was available to attend him. - Dr R. H. Wagner deposed that death was due to the effects of cancer of the liver and bronchitis and a verdict was returned accordingly.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 3 March 1920
DARTMOUTH - The Inquest on WILLIAM CLEMENTS DAMERELL, who died from injuries received from a falling girder at a Dartmouth shipbuilding yard, was adjourned for further evidence.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 3 March 1920
YELVERTON - Suicide At Yelverton. Elderly Man's Ill-Health. - Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquiry this morning at Yelverton into the death of JAMES GAWMAN, ,master shoemaker, aged 57, of Horrabridge, who was found dead hanging in a wash-house by his son-in-law on Tuesday morning. - JOHN JAMES JESSOP said his father-in-law had been unwell for some time, but had not consulted a doctor. He suffered from sleeplessness and had been in the habit of going out early and going for walks. - Dr Revell, of Yelverton, said he had made a post-mortem examination and found the liver very large and the kidneys diseased. This would account for the man not being able to sleep. Death was due to asphyxia. - The Coroner returned a verdict that "Deceased committed Suicide while in an Unsound State of Mind."

Western Evening Herald, Tuesday 9 March 1920
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Horse Kick. Plymouth Stableman's Death. - An Inquest was held at Plymouth upon JOHN LONGDON, of 61 South Milton-street, a stableman, aged 62. - Archibald Wyatt, another stableman, said that on Thursday last he and deceased were working together at the Co-operative Society's stable in West-street. Deceased was kicked in the stomach by a horse which he was feeding, and was picked up by witness, but was able to go home. Eventually, however, he became so ill that he was removed to the Hospital. - Robert Henry James, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said deceased was suffering from shock when admitted. He was very debilitated and had been kicked in the abdomen, sustaining injuries, from which he died. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Tuesday 9 March 1920
PLYMOUTH - The Plymouth Fair Fatality. Thrower Of The Ball Not Found. - The Inquest upon the lad killed at the Mill-street Fair was held at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital this morning by Mr R. B. Johns, the Plymouth Coroner. - ANNIE KITSON of 48 Richmond-street, said the body was that of her stepson, aged 12. His name was ARTHUR KITSON, and he was the son of an Army pensioner. - Richard Denslow, a merchant seaman, said that on Saturday evening he was near a stall in the fair and saw deceased picked up by another lad. A youth about 18 years of age said he paid a penny for three balls and threw two of them. He was about to throw the third when deceased bobbed up and was struck by the ball which slipped out of the thrower's hand. Witness did not know the name of the thrower but would recognise him again. - "What Have You Done?" - Margaret Young, a stall-holder at the fair, said the accident happened at the adjoining stall, and she helped to pick up the lad, who was unconscious. She said to the youth who threw the ball, "What have you done to this child?" and he replied, "I haven't done anything." She had described this youth to the Police. - Dr Blanche Anderson, House Physician at the Hospital, said she had not yet made a post-mortem examination, but would do so later in the day. - Rachael Frampton, wife of the manager of the fair in Mill-street, said she left the stall for a moment, but was fetched by Mrs Young to deceased, who was unconscious. She knew the youth who threw the ball very well and had told him not to go away. He said that he had one pennyworth of balls and threw them, asked for another pennyworth and said to the boy, "Let me have the balls." KITSON said, "Pick them up yourself," and the other youth took them out of the rack and threw them. That, he said, was all he knew. - Name Of Thrower Unknown. - Chief Superintendent Martin said every effort had been made to trace the youth, but although many other lads knew him quite well, none could give his name or what he was. There was no doubt that he would soon be found. - Mr R. Rodd, on behalf of Mr Haslam and the management of the fair, expressed deep regret at the occurrence and sympathy with the relatives. - The Coroner was satisfied that the death was the result of a pure accident, and that the lad who threw the ball was not to blame. It would, however, be the more manly course, and would save all future trouble, if the missing youth came forward at once. He had nothing to fear, and the Coroner asked the "Western Evening Herald," the only newspaper represented at the Inquest, to give the fullest publicity to his request. The lad is an essential witness, and has only to give his name to any Policeman, or, at any Police Station, or, if he prefers to do so can appear at the South Devon Hospital tomorrow at noon, when the Inquest will be resumed. He need be under no apprehension whatever.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 10 March 1920
PLYMOUTH - The Fair Fatality. Mystery Of The Ball Thrower. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned by Mr J. Graves, Deputy Coroner, at the adjourned Inquest at the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, Plymouth, today, on ALFRED KITSON, the twelve-year-old son of a disabled soldier, living at 48 Richmond-street, who was killed at the World's Fair, Mill-street, on Saturday evening. - Chief Superintendent Martin explained that the lad was an assistant at a side show where balls were thrown at life-sized figures of the ex-Kaiser, the ex-Crown Prince and Hindenburg. It appeared that another boy was about to throw a ball when the deceased "bobbled up" beside him and received a blow at the back of the ear. The lad in question afterwards described what happened to another lad, who, in turn, described it to witness, but all efforts to trace the boy who was throwing the balls had failed. - Dr Henderson said death was caused by a blow over the right ear. - The Deputy Coroner said it was obviously an accident, but the missing lad was evidently afraid to show himself. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd represented the proprietors of the Fair.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 10 March 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - St Budeaux Suicide. Married Woman Takes Salts Of Lemon. - The District Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, held the adjourned Inquiry at Ker-street Police Court, Devonport, yesterday, respecting the death of MRS ROSINA MOLE (wife of Warrant Writer L. W. MOLE of 18 Clifford-terrace, St Budeaux), who was found ill, and subsequently died in Moor-lane, on the night of February 25. Dr Thomas deposed that a packet labelled "salts of lemon" had been in the possession of deceased. He had been unable to account for death, but Mr Tickle, Public Analyst, had found oxalic acid in the contents of the stomach. Death was due to that poison, which the doctor said was easy to procure. He knew deceased had been suffering from alcoholism, and her condition would certainly affect her mind. It was stated that other than her failure for drink MRS MOLE was a highly respected woman. - The husband of deceased said he arrived home from the Mediterranean on February 23 and two days before the death occurred he spent a happy time with his wife and daughter, talking and playing the piano. The next day deceased had complained of pains in her head. The doctor had told her she must expect such symptoms at her age. He knew nothing, however, that would account for her taking her life, and was quite ignorant of her drinking habits. On one occasion he had been summoned home by a vague letter from his brother, and found that his wife had been taking drugs. - Evidence was given by Margaret Brown, Morris Park-terrace, that MRS MOLE had said, "If my husband sent a telegram saying he was coming home, do not be surprised to hear tell of my death two days after." - She had told witness and others that someone had been writing to her husband making statements about her. This, MR MOLE, declared, must have been a delusion on her part. - The Coroner returned a verdict that the deceased poisoned herself by taking salts of lemon whilst in an Unsound Mind, caused by her drinking and the suffering from pain in her head.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 10 March 1920
DARTMOUTH - Dartmouth Fatality. - At the adjourned inquest at Dartmouth yesterday on W. C. DAMARELL, a workman at Noss, the Jury returned a verdict of "Misadventure," and found that death was the result of injuries received through being crushed by the falling of a girder from a trolley on rails at Noss extension works, caused by insufficient bearing and faulty road. Mr J. Owner, H.M. Inspector of Factories, was present at the Inquiry.

Western Morning News, Thursday 11 March 1920
PLYMOUTH - Stabbing Fatality. Murder Charge Against Chilian At Plymouth. - The Deputy Plymouth Coroner, Mr J. Graves, yesterday held an Inquest on VASILIAS CALIMASIOTES, of Chios, Greece, who was killed in the course of a quarrel on Monday evening. Clementi Moralis, the Chilian, who is accused of causing the death of deceased, was present in charge of the Police. As both the deceased and Moralis were members of the crew of the American s.s. H.M. Whitney, the proceedings were watched by Mr Irving Nelson Linnell, U.S.A. Consul at Plymouth. Mr Walter H. Jago, (Fox and Co.) represented the owners, also the Chilian Consul. An interpreter was sworn to assist the prisoner and the Coroner. - Fred Metzler, of New York, chief engineer of H.M. Whitney, said deceased was ship's fireman and aged 32. He took drugs, and frequently behaved in an insulting manner to witness and other members of the engineering staff. - Other witnesses detailed the circumstances of the quarrel which resulted in the death of the Greek, and in the end the Jury returned a verdict of "Wilful Murder "against the Chilian, but added that there was great provocation. Accused was committed on the Coroner's warrant to the next Assizes at Exeter.

Western Evening Herald, Monday 15 March 1920
PLYMOUTH - At the Mortuary this morning, the Deputy Plymouth Coroner, Mr John Graves, conducted an Inquiry into the death of ANN CASHEN, a widow, aged 71 years, of 21 Granby-street. - Mrs M. Dingle, of 20 Granby-street, spoke of finding the deceased dead on the floor of her room at 21 Granby-street, on Friday last. - Dr W. H. Waterfield, Stonehouse, said death was due to syncope from fatty degeneration of the heart. - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 17 March 1920
PORTLAND, DORSET - Plymothian's Heroism. Life Given To Save His Shipmate. - A verdict that STOKER PETTY OFFICER GEORGE HENRY WEBBER, 28, single, died from burns received while trying to save the life of Stoker Berry on the torpedo-boat destroyer Walrus was returned at an Inquest at Portland on Monday. - WEBBER lived at 6 Hastings-street, Plymouth and the Coroner was told of his thrilling heroism and self-sacrifice. The boilers of the Walrus were being cleaned. One man, Stoker Berry, was sent into a boiler drum compartment two feet six inches in diameter. He was given a three-pint pot containing paraffin and blacklead. The only illuminate was a naked candle. Berry had to work on his side. He shouted that his hands were afire, and WEBBER found that the pot was alight and barred the only means of exit from the drum. WEBBER pulled out the pot and flames six or eight feet high rose. Berry was got out, and witnesses stated that WEBBER became a mass of flames. Petty Officer Love threw a jumper over his head and lay on the man to prevent the draught from fanning the flames. WEBBER and Berry were taken to the Naval Hospital where WEBBER died on Sunday. - Love told the Coroner that but for WEBBER'S heroic act Berry would have been burnt to cinders or suffocated. - The Coroner commented that it was a wicked thing to expose men to such danger. If men in the mines were asked to do work under such conditions they would strike the next day. It was a disgracefully dangerous business, and he asked the Admiralty representative to report the matter to the Admiralty. - Love was complimented upon the endeavours he made to save WEBBER. It was stated that Berry was recovering.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 17 March 1920
PLYMOUTH - Drowning Of A Plymouth Woman. Fisherman's Part In Deplorable Conduct. - An Inquest was held this morning at the Mortuary by Mr R. B. Johns, the Plymouth Coroner, on the body of a woman found drowned. She was identified as FLORENCE BURT, widow of a fisherman and aged 40, who had been an inmate of the Plymouth Workhouse for many years. She had gone out on Saturday for the day and was in possession of a considerable sum of money. Dr R. H. Wagner said that death was due to drowning and the body bore no marks of violence. - William Goffin, a dock labourer, said he found the body on Sunday morning floating face downwards and reported to the Police. - Thomas Henry Briggs, a boatman of 24 New-street, said he met deceased about 12.30 on Saturday afternoon outside a public-house. He had known her all his life and they went into the Royal Oak together, where he had a glass of ale and she had a bottle of stout. Afterwards they went to the Queen's Arms, where deceased had four drops of whisky. She said she had three drops previously. They then went to the Friary Hotel, where each had a glass of ale, and another woman came in. After some preliminary conversation a quarrel arose between the two women and blows were struck. All three were ejected and witness obtained a cab and drove with deceased to Yealmpton. She refused to have any tea, and on the way back they stopped at Elburton, where deceased had some more whisky. - "Take Care Of Her." - They got back to Exeter-street, and witness left her at the Jubilee Hotel, deceased saying she was going to her mother-in-law's for her little boy. Deceased was then quite sober, and witness considered he had taken care of her. She had plenty of money with her and paid 5s. for the cab. - MRS BURT, the mother-in-law, living at Rose-cottages, Lambhay-street, said that deceased was the worse for liquor when she came in on Saturday evening, and witness spoke to her about her condition. - William Henry Cooksley, a fisherman, said that just after midnight - Sunday morning - he saw deceased leaning against a door. She was very drunk and asked if his name was Ford. He said it was not and asked for her own name, which she gave correctly, but said she had no home. He advised her to find a Policeman, as she was wet through with the rain. - In returning a verdict of "Found Drowned," the Coroner said it was a beastly case, and he thought that Briggs should be thoroughly ashamed of himself. It was a perfect disgrace to go out with a woman as he had done and let her spend her money on whisky.

Western Morning News, Saturday 20 March 1920
LYDFORD - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned yesterday at the Inquest on ALBERT DEWELL, a convict in Dartmoor Prison, who died on March 18. Deceased was a miner at Hartshill, Warwickshire, and in 1907 was sentenced at Warwick Assizes to twenty years' penal servitude for manslaughter.

Western Evening Herald Saturday 20 March 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Inquest. Woman's Self-Inflicted Injury. - An Inquest was held at Devonport yesterday touching the death of BEATRICE MAUD MARY BLAKE, 32, wife of HENRY HICKS BLAKE, a shipwright in the Dockyard, of 20 Tavistock-road, Devonport. The husband said his wife did not disclose to him that she was pregnant. - Dr J. Ingram said he first saw deceased on Saturday evening. She had the symptoms of influenza. On Sunday there was something in her manner which led him to ask her if she had been taking anything. She replied in the negative, but that she had used hot douches to try and bring about a miscarriage, adding that they were under notice to leave their house, and that it was impossible to get rooms in the town with children. The next day her condition was worse than hot douches would have caused, and he thought it would be necessary to perform an operation. She was very anxious for him to perform this operation. On Tuesday her condition was worse and in the afternoon he had another message to go to deceased. He went to the house, and MRS BLAKE told him that she knew she was going to die, and informed him, in the presence of two neighbours, that she had used an instrument on herself, and indicated to Mrs Lander where she would find it. Mrs Lander found a white bone knitting needle. The Coroner: The act was a very clumsy one? - Yes. - And confirms the whole story that it was self-inflicted? - Yes. - The Coroner recorded a verdict that MRS BLAKE died from septic peritonitis, caused by an instrumental injury to the peritoneum, self-inflicted for the purpose of procuring abortion.

Western Evening Herald, Saturday 20 March 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Baby's Death. - At the Coroner's Office, Princess-square, Plymouth, this morning, an Inquest was held on the body of DESMOND GEORGE PALMER, aged four and a-half months, the son of ALBERT PALMER, 5 Pearson-road, Mutley. - Dr A. E. Blades said deceased died yesterday morning in a convulsion, following pneumonia. - The Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, accordingly returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 24 March 1920
HAULBOWLINE, CORK, IRELAND - Haulbowline Fatality. Plymouth C.P.O. Crushed. - At an Inquest at Haulbowline yesterday on C.P.O. WILLIAM REECE, of Plymouth, Surg.-Lieut.-Com. Mason, R.N., deposed he was called to deceased, who had been severely injured through the fall of a steamboat in the camber. He had made a post-mortem examination, and found that he had been crushed between the boat and pier. Death was caused by the injuries sustained. - The evidence showed that deceased was clearing the propeller of a launch of which he was coxswain, and the boat raised when the chain of the crane snapped and the boat fell on him. He tried to swim to the pontoon, and subsequently succumbed. When Chief Commd. Boatman Flynn was absent it was his duty to see Mr Flynn's orders promulgated. The steam launch had a list to port whilst being hoisted by the crane, and the chain snapped. The tide was ebbing, and deceased ordered the boat to be lowered, as the strain was too great on the crane. Deceased was engaged at the time cutting off a fishermen's net that had got foul of the launch's propeller. - The Jury found that deceased died from injuries Accidentally received, a defective chain being used, the Jury adding a rider that there was lack of supervision on the part of the authorities, and recommended the widow and family to the consideration of the Admiralty.

Western Morning News, Thursday 25 March 1920
TEIGNMOUTH - Teignmouth Suicide. Woman Finds Life Not Worth Living. - At Teignmouth last evening Mr T. Edmonds, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest on GERTRUDE MAUDE LINTER, wife of WILLIAM HERBERT LINTER, shipwright. - MR LINTER said he was working at Dartmouth. He last saw his wife alive on Monday morning, at seven o'clock. She said she had not slept all night, and would not get up for a couple of hours. His wife suffered from nerve trouble, but her mind was not affected. She had often told him that life was not worth living, but had not expressed any intention of taking her life. She had no trouble whatever. - Dr F. W. Morton Palmer said deceased was suffering from neurasthenia; she was very despondent and sleepless. She often talked of suicide. Deceased was always depressed when her husband was not with her, and in order that he might come home more frequently witness wrote to the commanding officer of his ship and got him a home appointment at Dartmouth. They were a most devoted couple. - P.C. Harris said on Monday night he found deceased with her head in the gas stove. Around her head and shoulders was a table cover so arranged in order that the gas should not come out. ~She had been dead several hours. - The Coroner returned a verdict that deceased met her death by Gas Poisoning, being at the time of Unsound Mind.

Western Morning News, Thursday 25 March 1920
PLYMOUTH - Killed By Falling Tree. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday on WILLIAM ALFRED LANE (48), a mason, of Embankment-road, Plymouth, who was struck by a tree which he was felling in Arundel-crescent, North-road, on Tuesday evening. - Dr R. H. Evans, House Surgeon at the Hospital, said death was due to fracture of the base of the skull and consequent haemorrhage. - Verdict: "Accidental Death."

Western Evening Herald, Saturday 27 March 1920
PLYMOUTH - An Inquest was held by the Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, this morning, on the body of a child, EDNA AMELIA SMOUT, aged 12 months, the daughter of a postman, FREDERICK SMOUT, of 32 King-street, Plymouth. A verdict of Death from Natural Causes was returned. On Friday EDNA SMOUT had a convulsion and died before the doctor arrived. The medical evidence was to the effect that the child died from convulsions due to bronchial pneumonia following measles.

Western Evening Herald, Saturday 27 March 1920
PLYMOUTH - Inquest was held by the Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, this morning, on the body of a child, STELLA WOOD, the daughter of Stoker P.O. JAMES WOOD, of 31 High-street, Plymouth and was eight weeks old. A verdict of Death from Natural Causes was returned. - Baby WOOD died at the Morley House hostel on Friday, Dr Mabel Ramsay deposed that the convulsions were caused by acute distension of the stomach. The child had been very well cared for.

Western Morning News, Monday 29 March 1920
BURLESCOMBE - Devon Motor Fatality. Killed In Stormy Weather. - At Burlescombe on Saturday, Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner, held an Inquest on ALICE MOORE SILLENCE, aged 62, wife of an artist, who was knocked down by a car, driven by Mr F. J. Caudwell, of Boston, Lincs., on Thursday, at Red Ball Cross. - Mr Caudwell, a visitor to Torquay, said it was raining and blowing. Deceased was going in the same direction as the car, with her umbrella up to the wind. He blew his horn, and first deceased went to the right side of the road, and then back to the middle. He swerved the car to the left, and the head lamps caught her, knocked her down, and the wheels went over her. - The medical evidence showed fracture of the skull, three ribs and left leg broken. Death was instantaneous. - Verdict, "Accidental Death," no blame being attached to the driver.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 31 March 1920
PLYMOUTH - Suicide At Plymouth. Ex-Soldier. - At the Plymouth Mortuary yesterday Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquiry into the death of JAMES WHITEHILL, Cecil-street, a foundry labourer. - MRS ELIZABETH ALICE WHITEHILL declared that when her husband went to bed on Sunday night, about eleven o'clock, he seemed all right. After they had got into bed, however, they "had words," he apparently suspecting her of unfaithfulness. There was no foundation whatever, she said, for his jealousy, but ever since he had been wounded in France he had been queer. After the quarrel on Sunday night he took off the counterpane and went downstairs. She went to sleep and knew nothing of what happened afterwards. - Mrs Elizabeth Pearce, Cecil-street, testified to seeing deceased alive at 10 o'clock on Sunday night, when he seemed quite normal. She had supper with MR and MRS WHITEHILL at their house. In the morning, being called to the house at 8.30, she found WHITEHILL lying on the floor with the gas-pipe bedside him. The pipe was disconnected from the ring, which was on the stove, the gas being turned full on. She had seen nothing on Sunday night that would suggest why he should commit suicide. - Dr Parker said he had seen the body at the Mortuary, and in his opinion death was due to gas poisoning. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 31 March 1920
PLYMOUTH - Woman's Tragic Act. - At the Plymouth Mortuary yesterday afternoon the Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, conducted an Inquest on the body of EVA JANE ROGERS, 56, spinster, of Chapel-street, Plymouth. - Mrs Susan Chapple, 10 Chapel-street, said that she saw deceased standing on her doorstep on Friday evening, quite well. On Saturday morning, about 9.30, she knocked at MISS ROGERS'S door, but received no answer. She knocked again, tried the door and then smelt gas. Going in, she found deceased lying on the bedroom floor and a piece of gas tubing lying beside her, disconnected from the ring. It seemed that deceased had fallen from a chair, and so disconnected the tubing. The gas was turned fully on. She could suggest no reason why MISS ROGERS should have taken her life. - Dr R. Burke, who had been called to see the deceased, said death was due to gas poisoning, and a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane", was accordingly returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 3 April 1920
TAVISTOCK - Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest at Tavistock on Thursday on ARTHUR HARVEY, 63, retired miner, of Westbridge-cottages, Tavistock, who was found dead in bed by his wife. Dr J. Leslie Watt stated that death was due to fatty degeneration of the heart, and the Coroner returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Saturday 3 April 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Pensioner's Sudden Death. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport on Thursday on FRANK YEATES, aged 62, naval pensioner, of Sithney-road, St Budeaux, who died suddenly on Monday. The widow stated that after playing a game of dominoes on Monday evening, deceased went out to get a drink. He returned shortly afterwards and complained of feeling unwell, dying before the doctor's arrival. - Dr P. Thomas attributed death to syncope through fatty degeneration of the heart, and a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Saturday 3 April 1920
EGG BUCKLAND - Soldier's Suicide. Inquest At Crownhill Today. - Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquiry at Crownhill Barracks this morning touching the death of WILLIAM MARKS, private in the Royal Munster Fusiliers, who was found ill in the armoury shop on Thursday afternoon. - Armourer-Sergt. Thomas Poole said deceased was employed in that armourer's shop as an assistant and on Thursday witness left him at work in the shop. Deceased had complained of pains in the head; he had been wounded in the head in the recent war. - Sergt. Burt said he was called to the shop about 3 p.m. and found MARKS on the floor very ill. He asked him what was the matter, and he replied that he had done wrong; that he had drunk from the cup on the table. The cup, said witness, contained spirits of salts. Deceased was taken to the Medical-room, where he expired. - Mrs Laura Poole, wife of Sergt. Poole, said she had known deceased about three months. He had repeatedly complained of pains in the head, and on Thursday she asked him how he was and he made no reply. He seemed very depressed. - Capt. Hamilton, R.A.M.C., said he saw the deceased in the Army medical-room. He was in intense agony, evidently suffering from poisoning, and he died within a few minutes of witness seeing him. - The Coroner, having regard to the evidence of Mrs Poole and the depressed state of the deceased, returned a verdict of "Suicide by taking spirits of salts during a fit of Temporary Insanity." - The funeral took place this afternoon with military honours.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 6 April 1920
HONITON - Honiton Farmer's Death. - At the Inquest at Honiton yesterday by Dr E. R. Tweed, East Devon Coroner, on MR CHARLESLOCK, of Cheney's Farm, who returned from Honiton Market on Saturday apparently in good health, but a minute or so after arrival home was heard to fall and was found lying unconscious beside a fence. Dr D. Steele Perkins said deceased had broken his neck, probably in getting over a fence, which separated an orchard from the farmyard. The bones were in such a state of senile decay that the least exertion would cause a rupture. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 7 April 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - V.A.D. Cook's Fatal Fall. - Mr R. R. Rodd, Coroner, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" at the Inquest yesterday on EMMA DODD, aged 50, widow, of Cambridge, who had been serving as cook at Winter Villa V.A.D. Hospital. - Miss N. E. J. Duncan, commandant, said that at 6.30 p.m. on Thursday she found MRS DODD unconscious at the foot of a flight of stairs. The stairs were in good repair, but were steep and winding, and deceased was well acquainted with them. Witness spoke to her about ten minutes previously, when she was perfectly sober. - Surg.-Com. G. B. Scott, R.N. Hospital, Plymouth, said death was due to a broken neck.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 7 April 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - Strange Mishap. Death After Swallowing False Teeth. - Mr R. R. Rodd held an Inquest yesterday at the R.N. Hospital, on SAMUEL LEWIS LAWRENCE, warrant ordnance officer, R.N., H.M.S. Vivid, of 4 Alexandra-road, Ford. - Surg.-Com. A. McCloy stated that on 24th ult deceased came to the R.N. Hospital and stated that during his sleep he had swallowed a small plate of false teeth, measuring about one square inch. It was found necessary, after futile attempts to remove the teeth without operation from the gullet, in which they were lodged, to perform an operation on 26th ult. Although the teeth were taken out, and deceased's condition continued to improve until the 29th ult., he succumbed on Good Friday, the mishap having caused septic pneumonia. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 7 April 1920
PLYMOUTH - Prince Rock Fatality. Today's Inquest: Accidental Death. - A fatal accident to a farm labourer was investigated by Mr R. B. Johns, the Plymouth Coroner, this morning. - Deceased, SAMUEL JOHN EDWARDS, lived at Lower Hooe, and was 61 years of age. He was employed by Mr P. B. Hine, and his brother said that before his death deceased said no blame attached to anyone. - Mrs Bloomfield, of Prince Rock, said that on the afternoon of the 30th ult. she was talking to deceased in Laira Bridge-road. He was driving a horse and waggon towards Plymstock, and after saying goodbye to her he re-started the horse. Just then a large motor lorry came from the opposite direction and the horse shied. Deceased was then standing on the shafts and was thrown to the ground. - Mrs Pengelley, also of Prince Rock, said she was with the previous witness and looked towards the waggon as deceased fell off. Witness went to him and found the wheel of the waggon resting on his chest and arm. She backed the horse and helped to pick up deceased, who said he was going to take his horse home, but did not speak again to her. - P.C. Bickle conveyed deceased to Hospital and said that on the way EDWARDS told him the horse tripped and it was a pure accident. - James W. G. H. Riddel, House Surgeon at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, said that deceased's ribs were fractured on the right side, and death was accelerated by bronchitis and heart failure. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was recorded.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 7 April 1920
HOLBETON - Suicide At Flete House. Evidence At Inquest By Col. Mildmay, M.P. Butler's Death. - A peculiar case of suicide occurred yesterday, at Flete House, Holbeton, the residence of Colonel F. B. Mildmay, M.P., and this afternoon, Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of the deceased, THOMAS SHELTON, a butler in the employ of Colonel Mildmay. - THOMAS JOHN KINGDOM, a farmer, of Lang's Farm, Kingston, identified the deceased as his brother-in-law. Witness said he last saw deceased on Sunday at Flete, up to when he had made no complaint of any trouble or of ill-health. He was on good terms with his wife. - Joseph Daniel Brown, valet to Colonel Mildmay, deposed that yesterday, about noon, he heard a report, and went to the gun-room and there found deceased on the floor with a double-barrelled gun resting across his body. His head was very badly injured. Witness had been with him only ten minutes before, and had given him a message which he had delivered to Mrs Mildmay. Witness and deceased came to Flete about the same time, sixteen or seventeen years ago. He had noticed no difference in the deceased since he returned from France, but for the last six weeks witness had been away in Scotland with Col. Mildmay. - Evidence Of Colonel Mildmay. - Col. Mildmay, M.P., stated that deceased had been in his employ for sixteen years, and in the early days of his employ had rendered devoted service to witness's father. The happiest relations existed between witness and deceased, and SHELTON had always been a trusted servant. At the beginning of the war he enlisted in the Coldstream Guards as a private, then he (witness) was instrumental in getting him a position in headquarters establishment, where deceased acted so admirably during Prussian attacks and he was favourably spoken of by Field-Marshal Lord Plumer. Witness had seen no manifestation of his being affected by the trying times he had experienced on active service, and up to recently had seemed joie de vivre. He could not believe that he could have been in pecuniary difficulties, because SHELTON had so confided in him and told him any troubles that he might have. - Letter To Wife. - A letter was produced, which SHELTON wrote to his wife in affectionate terms, stating "I have an awful head after a sleepless night. I do so wish I was able to sleep better; it is really more than one can stand...... I wish I were feeling better to make you brighter, but this last month has been awful to me." - P.S. John Endacott, stationed at Yealmpton, deposed to having seen deceased in the gun-room with his head seriously injured. The gun, resting on his breast, seemed placed there designedly, and there seemed no question of an accident. - Silent Suffering. - Dr H. P. Miles, of Modbury, said deceased's head was practically blown off. - The Coroner: Reading the letter, doctor, and taking into consideration the evidence, he must have been suffering silently. - Dr Miles: Yes; and on a sudden impulse must have shot himself whilst in a fit of temporary insanity. He was a man who had himself under control and never admitted illness. - The Coroner said one frequently came across men who had served in the war committing suicide because of pains in the head. The present case was a very sad one and he offered his sympathy to MRS SHELTON and Colonel Mildmay, and returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Western Evening Herald, Thursday 8 April 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Widow's Suicide. Hanging Behind Bedroom Door. - This morning Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest on the body of SELINA REDDY, aged 71 years, widow of PETER THOMAS REDDY, naval pensioner, who was found hanging behind her bedroom door at her residence, 9 Florence-place, Plymouth, yesterday morning. - Caroline Skelly, wife of Charles Percy Skelly, identified the body as that of her aunt. Deceased, who was a bed-lier, had suffered from asthma for some considerable time. When witness saw her on Tuesday evening she was quite rational, and although she had heard her threaten to take her life, she knew of no reason why she had done so. Deceased was in receipt of an old age pension and was very comfortable. - P.C James Masters, deposed to finding deceased hanging behind her bedroom door by a piece of cord. Having cut her down he fetched Dr Stubbs. - Dr E. A. Travers Stubbs said deceased had been a patient of his for some time, and from the examination he made he was satisfied that death was due to strangulation, consistent with hanging. - A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 10 April 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Naval Pensioner's Death. Mysterious Abrasions. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, held an Inquest at the Royal Albert Hospital, Devonport, yesterday, on SAMUEL SARAH, 51, stoker, P.O. pensioner, lodging at 64 Duke-street. Deceased had complained in the previous week of being overworked, and of severe stiffness of the legs. He received medical treatment, but was removed to Hospital last Saturday. - Dr M. Crawford stated that on admission deceased seemed to be in severe pain. There were abrasions on his left shin. An operation was performed the same night, but he made no progress and died on Wednesday. Death was due to septicaemia due to the abrasions on the shin. - Verdict accordingly, with the rider that there was no evidence to show how the abrasions were caused.

Western Morning News, Saturday 10 April 1920
CHAGFORD - At an Inquest at Claremont House, Chagford, on Thursday, on the body of a child of MARY ELIZABETH LEAMAN, (age 19) the Jury found that the cause of death was asphyxia following inattention at birth.

Western Morning News, Monday 12 April 1920
TAVISTOCK -Fatal Self-Reliance. Widower's Explanation At Tavistock. - Mr R. R. Rodd resumed the Inquiry at Tavistock Guildhall on Saturday into the death of MRS SELINA JANE LUKE, 51, wife of HENRY LUKE, farm labourer, Exeter-street, Tavistock ( a two-room cottage) who attended the Inquest in a very weak condition. He said a week before his wife's death his daughter was taken ill with influenza and went to bed. Then his elder son, then himself, then the deceased, and lastly his younger son became ill with influenza. These were all practically down at the same time and they were doing the best they could for one another. During his wife's illness she had two pieces of cake with marmalade and half a large cup of milk, and on the day she died she had three cups of tea. He was the only member of the family up on the day of her death. The other four were in the same bedroom. He did not call in assistance because they thought they were going to get better every day. - The Coroner: How could your wife get better on that diet? The doctor told the Jury at the last sitting that the only cause of death was exhaustion, due to want of food and proper nursing. Witness: She could not eat. She said she did not want a doctor. - The Coroner: I don't understand your not recognizing your responsibility and sending for one. Witness: We did not think we needed help. - The Coroner: I suppose you did not like the idea of you all being huddled up in one room? Witness: I did not mind that, because I had put up a curtain between the two beds. We could not help living as we were. We could not get any other house, and had to go there for the time. - Witness further stated that during the week in which his wife died 29s. was coming into the house. Immediately the facts became known, sufficient money and food came in from charitable people, particularly the vicar (Rev. H. L. Bickersteth). - The Coroner: That shows that if you had only sought assistance you would have had it. - Addressing the Jury, the Coroner said he had no doubt they would, after observing the husband and hearing his evidence, say that his conduct was attributable to ignorance and want of judgment. - The Jury found that death was caused by neglect, but that such neglect was not culpable.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 13 April 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - Stoker P.O.'s Mishap. Fatal Fall From A Hammock. - An Inquest was held at the R.N. Hospital, yesterday, on Stoker Petty Officer R. STEPHENS, aged 45, of H.M.S. Vivid. Mr K. Eyton Peck represented the Admiralty. - Surg.-Com. N. Meiklejohn, R.N., said deceased was admitted to the Hospital on February 23 suffering from a fractured spine. An operation was performed two days later, but was unsuccessful, as the man's injuries were too great. He died last Friday. Witness produced a statement made by deceased to the effect that he returned to the R.N. depot B1 room at midnight on February 22 and slung his hammock as usual. After turning in, he was covering up his feet, when he overbalanced and fell to the deck. He called to his messmates for assistance, and later was taken to the R.N. Hospital. - The Coroner, Mr R. Robinson Rodd, was satisfied that it was an accident and returned a verdict that death was due to a fractured spine as the result of a fall. - Deceased was a native of Crow's Nest, near Liskeard.

Western Evening Herald, Friday 16 April 1920
DAWLISH - The Fall From A Train Near Dawlish. C.E.R.A.'S Mistake. - Mr Sydney Hacker, County Coroner, held an Inquiry at Dawlish yesterday afternoon into the death of HENRY VICTOR FEATHERSTONE, chief engine-room artificer, whose body was picked up on the G.W.R. line near the Dawlish Warren early on Tuesday morning. - ERNEST EDMOND FEATHERSTONE (brother, residing at Glasgow) said that deceased lived at South-view, Stoke, Devonport, with his father and mother. He had been in the Navy 18 years, and came home from Sheerness for a few days' leave last Friday. - EDWIN FEATHERSTONE said his son left home on Monday night in the best of health and spirits. He had no worries and would be the last to commit suicide. - Evidence Of Fellow Traveller. - Charles Fairburn, 18 Falkland-road, Stoke, said that he travelled by the up midnight train from Millbay on Monday night. To get some sleep, he went into a compartment where a man in naval uniform was stretched out on the seat asleep. Owing to the man snoring, he did not sleep until after the train left Newton Abbot. Then he was momentarily awakened by something knocking against his knee. Half opening his eyes, he saw the man standing in the middle of the compartment. He went to sleep again until awakened by the cold wind blowing against him. He saw that the door opposite the corridor was open and the window down. Witness closed the door and went to the lavatory. Finding no one there, he realised that something had happened and pulled the communication cord. The train did not stop and he went to look for an official. Finding none, he spoke to a sergeant of the Royal Engineers who was in the next compartment. They twice pulled the communication cord without result. Shortly afterwards the train arrived at Exeter and witness at once reported the matter to the railway officials. - Replying to the Coroner, witness said the sergeant was on his way to Cologne. He gave his name to the Stationmaster. - Railwaymen's Statements. - Thomas Tyack, guard, said that he tested the communication cord before the train started, and when it arrived at Exeter it was in perfect order. He could only suppose the cord was not pulled hard enough. - Inspector George Grimmett corroborated as to the state of the cord, and said that two special trains were at once despatched in search of deceased - one from Exeter and the other from Newton Abbot. - Goods Guard Webber said that the body was found about half a mile from the Dawlish Warren. It was in the down road between the rails. - Cause of Death. - Dr M. Cutcliffe said that death must have been practically instantaneous, due to shock and loss of blood. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Accidental Death." They could only surmise that, in a sleepy condition the deceased mistook the outer door for the one opening into the corridor.

Western Evening Herald, Saturday 17 April 1920
PLYMOUTH - A Plymouth Girl's Shocking Death. Adjournment Of Inquest Today. Serious Allegations. - The Inquest on the body of WINNIFRED SIMS (16), of 5 Bishop's-place, Plymouth, who died at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital as the result of a shocking accident at Lancaster's clothing factory on Thursday, took an unexpected turn today when, in consequence of allegations by the factory inspector that warnings to improve the fencing of the machinery have not been carried out by the firm, the proceedings were adjourned. - The accident occurred on Thursday afternoon, the girl's head being caught in a sewing machine when she was stooping and death took place the same evening. - Evidence At The Inquest. - Mr R. B. Johns, the Coroner, conducted the Inquest, which was held at the Hospital, and amongst those present were Mr H. Lawrence Spear (who represented the next-of-kin), Mr S. Mayburne Pearce (who appeared for the firm) and Miss Sadlier (the Factory Inspector). - CAROLINE SIMS, wife of FREDERICK JOHN SIMS, dock labourer, 66 George-street, Stonehouse, and aunt of the deceased, gave evidence of identification. - Florence G. Pedrick, 44 East-street, Stonehouse, said that she was working next to the deceased when the latter got up from her stool and stooped as though she was going to pick up something. A second afterwards there was a groan and the girl was seen to be in the shaft of the sewing machine. An alarm was immediately raised and the machines were stopped. The girl had been doing the same kind of work for about two years. - Daniel Down, machine foreman, 8 Sussex-street, said he heard a scream and a cry of "There's someone under the machine." At once he stopped the machine and found the girl suffering from an injury to the head. There had never been a similar accident at the works before. - The Regulations. - In reply to Mr Pearce witness said the girl had no business to be in the spot where she was found. - Mr Pearce said there was a regulation which stipulated the girls' hair must be tied up above their shoulders whilst they were working, and it was stated that the deceased's hair was so tied at the time of the accident. - Jesse Charles, engineer, 29 Second-avenue, Camel's Head, stated that after the accident he found that the girl's hair was twisted round the main shafting of the machine. A regulation prohibited anyone from picking up anything that was dropped underneath a machine. - Dr Riddle, resident House Surgeon at the Hospital, said that the girl was suffering from a severe fracture of the skull, and the scalp was torn off. Her condition was hopeless from the first, and she died the same night without regaining consciousness. - Alleged Inadequate Fencing. - Miss Sadlier (to the witness Charles): If an additional bar had been put on the machine would it have been impossible for the girl to get into the position where she was found? - Charles: It would have been totally impossible. - Miss Sadlier: We have raised an objection to the inadequate fencing of this shaft and they have not complied with our request. - Mr Pearce: They are doing it. - Miss Sadlier: I went round this morning and found that the instructions given in 1912 to put an additional bar on the shaft have not been complied with. - The Coroner suggested that in view of this allegation an adjournment was desirable. - "It might develop into a question of manslaughter," he observed. I put it at the very worst, of course. If it is proved that there is negligence - culpable negligence - it might be that." - Mr Pearce said he understood there were in existence millions of machines similar to the one on which the accident occurred. - Home Office Warning. - The question of the number of warnings sent to the firm was discussed and the Coroner read two letters submitted by the Factory Inspector. One of these, dated December 23rd last, from the Home Office to the firm stated that the fencing of the machines was not up to modern standard, and requested that improvements should be carried out as soon as practicable. The other letter, dated December 31st, was the reply of the firm, who said that the work would be carried out immediately. - "What you have to meet, Mr Pearce," said the Coroner, "is what the firm did after this letter of December 31st was sent." - Miss Sadlier remarked that the firm were also cautioned in 1918. - The Coroner: If you are going to make serious allegations, I shall have to get a Jury. - The engineer, Charles, recalled, said he started on this work of fencing in January. - Miss Sadlier: But you have all the machinery to attend to. I suggest that the work should have been given to a firm to do. - An Adjournment. - Charles said all the necessary bars had been purchased. - It was decided to adjourn the proceedings until Wednesday, April 28th.

Western Morning News, Monday 19 April 1920
TOTNES - At the Inquest by Mr S. Hacker at Totnes on WILLIAM ROBERT WOOD, 84, of Bridgetown, Totnes, it was assumed that deceased, who suffered from chronic rheumatism, slipped while ascending the stairs at his cottage and fractured his thigh, death resulting from shock.

Western Morning News, Monday 19 April 1920
EXMOUTH -Exmouth Infant's Death. - At an Inquest at Exmouth, on the child of MR and MRS FRANK JAMES, which was born on Wednesday and died the next day, Dr Smyth said the child was apparently healthy when born. A post-mortem examination revealed a certain amount of congestion of the lungs. He considered death was due to asphyxia, due probably to the baby being overlain, but it was quite possible it had died from a convulsion. - The Coroner said it appeared that the child's life, like many others, had been thrown away through it being overlain. He returned a verdict of death from Asphyxia, the result of being Accidentally Overlain.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 21 April 1920
STOKE DAMEREL -Devonport Fatality. Evidence At The Inquest Today. - At the Royal Albert Hospital this afternoon, Mr J. H. Pearce, Coroner, Inquired into the death of JOSEPH STEPHEN BATH, pensioner, quartermaster-sergeant-instructor of infantry, R.M.L.I., and hired assistant-store houseman in his Majesty's Dockyard. Deceased was 59 years of age and resided at 35 Adelaide-street, Stonehouse. - Captain Arthur Hurford, R.M.L.I., identified deceased, who was a bachelor. He had known MR BATH for the past 25 years. - Between Two Cars. - Edward Ernest Bennett, inspector under the Plymouth Corporation Tramways, said at 12.10 p.m. on the 10th April he was on duty at the top end of New Passage-hill regulating the traffic. One car was loading with passengers, another was at the extreme end of the terminus, and a third car was approaching the terminus. Witness heard a man shout and, walking to the front of the leading car, saw deceased between two cars. Someone shouted "Go back," and the approaching car went back a little way and deceased walked out from between the two cars. - Witness went to the deceased and asked if he was all right. BATH replied, "I think I am all right." Deceased was trembling and witness suggested that he should go to the Hospital near by. Deceased declined. - P.C. Goss then came forward and suggested that he should go to the Hospital, which the deceased consented to do. By that time the people who had been present had gone away, and he (the inspector) could not find anyone who had witnessed the accident. - Frederick Gilbert, driver of the approaching car, said he didn't see the deceased get off his car. Passengers were not allowed to land from the driver's end of the car. Deceased might have got off his end without his seeing it as it was a very busy time of the day. - Got Off At The Driver's End. - P.C. Goss said deceased told him he got off the tram at the driver's end, and that it was his own fault. - Dr Maria Crawford, House Surgeon, also said the deceased told her he got off the car at the wrong end and was crushed between the two cars and that it was his own fault. When admitted he was suffering from fractured ribs. He had also had bronchitis. The actual cause of death was heart failure and bronchitis accelerated by the fractured ribs. - The Coroner reviewed the evidence and said deceased must have been a passenger by the approaching car and got out at the driver's end without the driver knowing so, and that he was crushed between the two cars. Deceased had made two distinct statements, one to the Constable and the other to the House Surgeon that he got out at the driver's end and no one was to blame but himself. He returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence and that no one was to blame.

Western Morning News, Saturday 24 April 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - Fatal Street Accident. - At the Royal Naval Hospital, yesterday, an Inquest was held on PTE. CYRIL JOHN SALLEY, Royal Marines, aged 20. - Mr K. Eyton Peck represented the Admiralty, and Mr J. P. Dobell, Chaplin and Co., carriers. - W. F. Jewell, steam wagon driver, in the employ of Chaplin and Co., said when proceeding along King-street at about five miles an hour on Thursday afternoon, deceased came out of Manor-street on a bicycle, and turned the corner sharp, colliding with his wagon. Deceased was on his wrong side at the time. - Surg.-Lt. W. E. Heath said when deceased was admitted to the R.N. Hospital he was found to be dead. Death was due to fracture of the base of the skull. Verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Saturday 24 April 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - Petty Officer's Death. Illness After Extraction Of A Tooth. - At the Royal Naval Hospital, yesterday, an Inquest was held on JAMES THOMAS MUNN, 30, stoker petty officer, H.M.S. Godetia. Mr K. Eyton Peck represented the Admiralty. - Stoker Petty Officer T. S. Jago said that last Friday deceased had a tooth extracted by a dentist at Devonport. On Saturday he complained of pain, and on Monday was removed to Hospital. - Lt. Surg.-Com. R. F. Quinton, R.N. Hospital, said deceased when admitted was suffering from cellulitis of the neck, following extraction of a lower molar tooth. He was treated and the following morning his general condition was better, but the inflammation was spreading around his neck. An operation was performed at once, gas being used. The operation only lasted about two minutes and was finished, when deceased stopped breathing. Everything possible was done to bring deceased around, but without effect. A post-mortem showed death to be due to syncope, due to a congenital defect of the heart. In his opinion death was accelerated by the extraction of the tooth. - The Coroner adjourned the Inquest until next Tuesday for the attendance of the dentist.

Western Evening Herald, Tuesday 27 April 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - A Petty Officer's Death. Dentist's Evidence: The Inquest Verdict. - The Inquest touching the death of JAMES THOMAS MUNN, a stoker petty officer, of H.M.S. Godetia, who died at the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, on Thursday during an operation for an abscess in the neck following the extraction of a tooth, was resumed at the R.N. Hospital this morning by the Coroner, Mr R. Robinson Rodd. - The inquiry was adjourned on Friday in order that the dentist who extracted the tooth might be called to give evidence. - William Gordon Mitchell, 112 Albert-road, Stoke, said he extracted teeth. - Coroner's Questions. - The Coroner: At the last Inquiry your name was mentioned by a witness named Jago, who was informed by deceased that he had been to your house and had a molar extracted. Have you any recollection of deceased calling at your house on the 16th inst? - Witness: No. - Do you keep any record of teeth extracted? - Only the extractions, not the names of the patients. - How many teeth did you extract that day? - Only for a schoolboy. - Is it your practice to thoroughly sterilize the forceps before using them? - Yes, they are always sterilized before use as a precaution against uncleanliness and also dipped in a solution of Lysol. - After use they are cleaned and put back in the steriliser. - Has a case of cellulitis ever come under your notice before? - No. - Is it possible for patients to get into a septic condition following the extraction of a tooth? - Yes. I have seen people come back to my house after the extraction and say there was a piece left in and people would sometimes probe the gun with a piece of a match, their finger and sometimes a pen-knife. - This is of course, most dangerous? - Decidedly. - Forceps Sterilized. - Frederick Chas. Annear, Mr Mitchell's assistant, said he extracted a molar for a sailor, who, he believed, was the deceased. Witness took the forceps from the sterilizer and dipped them in a solution of Lysol and then gave deceased an antiseptic mouthwash, and the man left the house, apparently all right. Witness advised him to wash out his mouth with a mouth-wash until the gum had healed. - The Coroner: Are you a qualified dentist? - No. - How long have you been drawing teeth? - Five years. - You never had a case of septic poisoning brought to your notice before? - No. - Mr Edgar Bowden (for Mr Mitchell): You examined the tooth before extraction? - Yes. It was decayed and after the extraction I found the pulp of the tooth exposed. - How long was deceased in the surgery? - Between five and eight minutes. - There was nothing unusual about the extraction? - No. - You have managed Mr Mitchell's business for him while he was on active service? - Mr Mitchell has drawn teeth for about twelve years? - Mr Mitchell: Yes. - The Coroner: You are qualified? - No. - The Verdict. - The Coroner said it was satisfactory they had been able to trace who extracted the tooth and he was satisfied that Mr Annear took every precaution. He therefore came to the conclusion arrived at by Dr Quinton that deceased died from syncope accelerated by cellulitis following the extraction of a tooth, but there was no evidence to satisfy him how deceased contracted septic poisoning. - Mr Bowden, on behalf of Mr Mitchell and Mr Annear, expressed sympathy with the relatives.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 28 April 1920
PLYMOUTH - The Plymouth Factory Fatality. Inquest Resumed. - The Plymouth Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, resumed the Inquiry at Plymouth, this afternoon, on the body of WINIFRED M. C. SIMS (16) of 5 Bishop-place, Plymouth, who recently met her death as the result of a shocking accident at Lancaster's Clothing Factory. At the previous hearing, allegations were made by the Factory Inspector, Miss Sadler, the warnings to improve the fencing of the machinery had not been carried out by the firm. - When the proceedings were resumed this afternoon, the Coroner made reference to questions raised by the Factory Inspector, and said it would be for the Jury to decide whether there had been any negligence on the part of Messrs. Lancaster and Co. - Commenting upon a letter written on December 31st last, by Miss Sadler to the firm, giving the latter notice to put up an additional bar, the Coroner thought it was not of an imperative character. If there had been any danger, the Home Office should have insisted upon the work being carried out at once. - The evidence given at the previous Inquiry was repeated. - One of the witnesses, Mrs Symons said there was a verbal regulation that the girls should not get underneath the guard of the machine, but this was not among the printed regulations. - Jesse Charles, engineer, employed by Messrs. Lancaster and Co., said the work the firm had been called upon by the authorities to carry out had been carried out as expeditiously as possible. - Correspondence. - The letter from the Inspector of Factories to Messrs. Lancaster and Co. on December 23rd was read. It stated that upon a recent inspection of the factory necessary safeguards were found to be wanting and requested that they should be provided as soon as practicable. A suggested addition was a fifth bar to be fixed above the four already provided. - Messrs. Lancaster's reply promised that the fencing should be carried out immediately. In 1912 the firm's attention was also called to the dangerous state of the fencing, and they were asked to take such steps as to ensure there was no possibility of the workers coming into contact with the revolving shaft. - Mr Charles expressed the opinion that the requirements had been carried out as soon as it was found practicable. He had to do all the work of fencing himself and there were over a hundred machines, besides which he had many other duties. In July, 1919 the firm were told to put on another bar at the bottom of the guard, and that was done at once. The machines had been worked with three bars for 24 years. - The Verdict. - Miss Sadlier thought it was obvious the necessary work could not be done within a reasonable time by one man. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Friday 30 April 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Woman's Sudden Death. - Mr R. B. Johns, Plymouth Borough Coroner, held an Inquest this afternoon on the body of ELIZA LAUGHLIN, aged 66, wife of a naval pensioner, residing at 17 Morley-place, Plymouth. - Mrs John Burke of 26 Morley-place, said that deceased died suddenly yesterday. Previously she had seemed quite well and carried out her household duties. No one realised she was as bad as she was. - Dr Blades, who had been called after two other doctors had been unable to attend, arrived a short while before death occurred. - Deceased was suffering from double pneumonia and witness considered that medical advice should have been sought some days before. - The Coroner, however, said there were often cases in which people did not wish to give in and see a doctor. He returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Saturday 1 May 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Death At Devonport After Tooth Extraction. - The Devonport Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, held an Inquest yesterday on ANDREW SMYTH, skilled labourer, aged 24, of 1 Hood-street, who died after the extraction of a tooth two weeks previously. - MRS SMYTH said after her husband had had a tooth extracted he complained of pains in his head and she induced him to attend the Royal Albert Hospital. - Wm. Gordon Mitchell, Albert-road, said he was not a qualified dental surgeon, but before taking on his surgery in Devonport twelve years ago he had served five years' apprenticeship in Cornwall, and had practised under a qualified dentist in America. He was out of Plymouth on the day when deceased came to the surgery and his two operators, both of whom had had several years' experience but were not qualified, were left in charge. All the implements used were kept in an electrical sterilizer when not in use. - Questioned by Mr A. Bowden, solicitor, witness said his surgery was expensively fitted up and was one of the finest and most up to date this side of Bristol. Mr S. J. Pickard, who performed the extraction, said there was no abscess in deceased's gum. Every precaution was taken. - Dr Marian Crawford, House Surgeon of the Royal Albert Hospital, said deceased died on Thursday morning. She could not say definitely that death was caused by the extraction of the tooth, because there might have been a septic spot in the gum. Death was due to septic poisoning. - Verdict: "Death from cavernous sinus thrombosis, due to cellulitis, following the extraction of a tooth." - Dr Crawford remarked that had deceased properly treated his mouth after the extraction death might not have occurred. - The Coroner said the case was important from the fact that in a former case a patient of Mr Mitchell's had died after the extraction of a tooth. There was, however, no doubt that the surgery was thoroughly up to date, and that Mr Mitchell and his assistant were quite experienced men. There was no evidence whatever that what occurred had arisen from what happened in the surgery. Every precaution seemed to have been taken. The verdict prejudiced no one.

Western Morning News, Monday 3 May 1920
WILLESDEN, LONDON - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest on MR E. G. WILLIAMS, fireman on the Great Western Railway, son of MR G. WILLIAMS, of Tavistock-place, Plymouth, who was killed by a passing train last Tuesday while examining his engine at Willesden Junction.

Western Evening Herald, Monday 3 May 1920
PLYMOUTH - The Sudden Death Of MR NICHOLAS CRAIG. - At the Mortuary today, the Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, held an Inquest in respect of NICHOLAS EARLE CRAIG, 48, music dealer of 82 Cambridge-street, Plymouth, who died suddenly in Princess-square on Saturday, at midday. The body was seen by Dr C. J. Cooke, who found that death was due to a rupture of an aneurism near the heart. - GEORGE ROBERT EARLE CRAIG, brother of the deceased, said the deceased seemed quite all right when he left home at 9 o'clock in the morning. "Natural Causes" was the verdict.

Western Evening Herald, Monday 3 May 1920
PLYMOUTH - Bronchitis - Heart Failure. - Mr R. B. Johns, the Plymouth Borough Coroner held an Inquiry into the circumstances attending the death of WILLIAM PHILLIP THOMAS COOPER, aged 83, of 3 South View-terrace, a retired wood carver, revealed the fact that the old gentleman died suddenly on Saturday. - Dr R. H. Wagner said that a post-mortem examination was unnecessary. Death was due to heart failure following bronchitis. A verdict in accordance with the medical testimony was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Monday 3 May 1920
EXMINSTER - The Death Of Saltash Officer. His Service In France. - The correct name of the ex-officer, the discovery of whose body on the Great Western Railway is reported on Page 3, is JAMES STANLEY SMITH, and he resided at The Glen, Port View, Saltash. He was aged 26 and leaves a wife and young child. - On August 5th 1914, he joined the 1st Royal Devon Yeomanry as a private and served in Gallipoli, and was subsequently invalided home. He later joined the Royal Field Artillery as a second-lieutenant, serving for two years and four months in France with the 36th Division, and later proceeding with the Army of Occupation into Germany. - He was invalided home in February 1919, and for some time had been medically treated locally. Later he was transferred to the Bishop's Palace Hospital, Exeter. He arrived there on Thursday but on Friday was reported missing. - Deceased was the second surviving son of the late MR WILLIAM SMITH, of Manor Farm, Trematon, Saltash. - The Inquest. - The Inquest today was conducted by Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner. - Dr Robert Thorton Meadows, of Saltash, said it was impossible to identify the body, but he was able to recognise the clothing. When demobilised deceased was suffering from neurasthenia produced by the conditions of active service, and he had been under witness's care since last December. - "While under your care was the deceased suicidal?" asked the Coroner. - No, he was not suicidal, nor had he delusions of any kind. - A Healthy-Minded Man. - Witness added that deceased came to Exeter on Thursday and his wife accompanied him. Deceased was anxious to go to Exeter, because he considered his ill-health was a cause of worry to the family where he was living. He was a most healthy-minded young man, said witness and never suggested suicide. - A letter was produced written by the deceased on the day of his death to his wife. The Coroner said there was nothing in the letter to indicate suicide. - P.C. Mardon said that he was informed that a body had been found by a platelayer, and when he saw the body it was laying on the up-line above Countess Weir bridge. It was much mutilated. - The Coroner returned an Open Verdict and expressed sympathy with the relatives.

Western Evening Herald, Tuesday 4 May 1920
PLYMOUTH - Army Pensioner's Death At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth this morning on the body of SAMUEL BOYNE, an Army pensioner, aged 89, who died suddenly yesterday at a lodging house, 13 Octagon-street. - Dr R. H. Wagner stated that death was due to heart failure, following an attack of ague. - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 5 May 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Motor Cycle Fatality. Lieutenant Killed At South Raglan. Inquest Today. - Mr J. A. Pearce, the Borough Coroner, held an Inquiry at the Military Hospital, Stoke, this afternoon, into the death of LIEUT. JOHN WILFRED CHANDLER, 1st Devon Regiment, who died from injuries resulting from a motor-cycle accident on Saturday. - The deceased, who was 22 years of age, was a native of Torquay. He was stationed at South Raglan Barracks, Devonport, and while motor-cycling, came into collision with the railings outside the entrance to the Barracks, being removed to the Military Hospital where he died on Monday afternoon. - Collided With Gate. - Stephen Joseph Bothma, a private in the Devon Regiment, said he was on duty outside the Barracks gates at 12.10 p.m. on Saturday. He saw LIEUT. CHANDLER riding a motor-cycle at about 15 to 20 miles an hour. - The officer putout his hand to give warning that he was turning into the Barracks, and witness stepped back. - LIEUT. CHANDLER, on turning, ran over the pavement and crashed into the small gate leading to the guard-room. Witness ran to help him, but the officer could not speak, except to murmur something about his face, which was cut. In witness's opinion LIEUT. CHANDLER was going too fast to take the corner. - Conveyed To Hospital. - C.Q.M.S. Edward Thomas Oliver Richardson, of the Devons, who was in charge of the Garrison Police at the Guard-room, said that on hearing the crash he ran out and found the officer sitting across his cycle. He obtained a car belonging to the R.A.F.C. and had LIEUT. CHANDLER conveyed to Hospital. The motor-cycle was practically undamaged. - Medical Evidence. - Captain Thomas Llewellyn Davies of the R.A.M.C., said the deceased was able to walk when he (witness) saw him in the operating theatre. He had a small punctured wound on the left side of his face, which was too small to stitch and bled very little. After the wound had been dressed, LIEUT. CHANDLER wanted to go out. He was persuaded to rest in the ward for the rest of the afternoon. At five o'clock he became delirious, with a rising temperature, and rapidly grew worse. Witness after going off duty did not again see deceased alive. - The post-mortem examination showed haemorrhage of the brain. The cause of death was concussion and shock. - A Relapse. - Major Arthur Stirling, R.A.M.C., said deceased when in Hospital asked to be allowed to leave, but seemed rather dazed. He passed a comparatively good night, but did not improve during the next day and suffered a relapse. On the Monday morning deceased became unconscious and passed away in the afternoon. - Accidental Death. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 5 May 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Death From Gas Poisoning. - The Devonport Coroner held an Inquest yesterday on HESTER ANNIE PAWLEY, aged 58, widow, of 27 St John-street. - 1st Class P.O. E. F. PAWLEY, said he saw the deceased, his mother, at home ten days ago, when she was quite well and normal. He was her main support. She had never threatened to take her life. - Mrs Bennett, who lived in the same house with deceased, said at 9.15 p.m. on Sunday deceased was particularly cheerful. On Monday morning she found her lying on the floor with her head close to the gas stove, the door of which was open. The gas was turned on, and a coat was thrown over the opening. Deceased had evidently been dead for some time. The medical evidence showed that death was due to gas poisoning. Verdict accordingly.

Western Evening Herald, Thursday 6 May 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Infant's Death. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest this morning on the body of DOREEN TINION, the two-day old daughter of MR ERNEST TINION, a railway shunter of 38 Ashford-road, Plymouth. Dr F. E. Price said that death was due to suffocation, probably caused by the mother overlying the child in bed.

Western Morning News, Thursday 6 May 1920
PLYMOUTH - Death From Burns. Plymouth Motor Car Owner's Sad End. - Plymouth Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, yesterday held an Inquest concerning the death of MR SAMUEL MILFORD ABBOTT, of Mutley, who died of shock from burns that morning. - MR FREDERICK WILLIAM ABBOTT, medical practitioner, of Bedford-street, Balham, said deceased, who was his brother, was a retired stockbroker, 55 years of age. About 10 a.m. on Monday, April 26, deceased was in his garage picking out a split-pin from his motor car. He was smoking at the time, and it was probable that some petrol was lighted by a spark from his pipe., - Dr Colin D. Lindsay, who was at once called in, said he found deceased conscious, but suffering so much that he was unable to tell him how the accident happened. He lingered until that morning, and death was due to shock, the result of burns. Deceased seemed to be going on well until Tuesday. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was recorded.

Western Evening Herald, Friday 7 May 1920
ROBOROUGH - Crownhill Boy's Death. Mr R. Robinson Rodd, jun., Deputy County Coroner, conducted an Inquest this afternoon at Roborough Police Station, into the death of GEORGE THOMAS KELLAWAY, aged seven years, the son of THOMAS KELLAWAY, a farm labourer, of Wolwell Cottages, Crownhill. - Deceased was knocked down by a motor car yesterday. - EMILY KELLAWAY, the mother, said that about four o'clock on Wednesday afternoon she was standing at the gate of her house talking to Mr Sleep, when she saw someone running behind a waggon coming from Roborough. As the wagon was passing the gate a motor approached from the direction of Plymouth. The child behind the wagon, who she then recognised to be her son, ran in front of the motor towards witness, and was struck down. The car was stopped, and the gentleman in it came back. Witness could not remember if the horn was sounded. - Witness Who Heard The Horn. - Isaac Sleep, a general carrier, of Crownhill, gave corroborative evidence, and said that he heard the horn of the car behind him and stepped into the gutter. Immediately after he saw the boy leave the back of the wagon and run in front of the car. - Dr T. Olver, Crownhill, was called to see deceased and found that death was due to a fracture of the skull. There was also a wound in the jaw. - Miss J. F. M. Lawdan, of 4 The Baths, Devonport, the driver of the motor-car, stated that she was driving Dr Down towards Roborough. She noticed the wagon coming when she got to the cottages, and, blowing the horn, slowed down to no more than fifteen miles an hour. When she was level with the wagon deceased darted in front of the car from behind the wagon. She was an experienced driver, having driven Government cars in Aldershot and Plymouth before being with Dr Down two years. She had not previously had an accident. - Dr Down corroborated and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, there being no blame attached to the driver of the car. - Mr C. L. Croft, of Plymouth, who represented Dr Down, expressed his client's sympathy with the parents. - Supt. W. H. Chammings was present, representing the Police.

Western Morning News, Friday 7 May 1920
PLYMSTOCK - Drowned In Hooe Lake. - Mr R. R. Rodd, jun., Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Oreston yesterday on FREDERICK GEORGE FONE, aged 60, naval pensioner, of Frederick-street, Plymouth, who was found drowned in Hooe Lake on Wednesday evening by Mr C. J. Lashley. - Dr F. W. Perry, of Plymouth, said FONE visited him earlier the same evening and was prescribed for. He had had several attacks of influenza which were likely to affect his mind. - Verdict: "Suicide during Temporary Insanity."

Western Morning News, Saturday 8 May 1920
EXMOUTH - Drowned Off Dawlish. - An Inquest was held at Exmouth yesterday on PATRICK DEANE, aged 32, ship's corporal, who was drowned near Dawlish while out sailing in a coastguard dinghey on Tuesday in last week with his father-in-law (WM. DEMAINE), and a coastguard station officer, Frederick Baker. - The boat capsized in a squall, and the body of DEMAINE was found floating near the wreckage, death in his case being due to shock through sudden immersion in the water. Baker was rescued. - Henry McCabe, boatman, stated that he and two other men recovered the body from the landwash on the western side of Dawlish Warren. - Verdict, "Accidentally Drowned."

Western Evening Herald, Saturday 8 May 1920
YELVERTON - Sudden Death At Yelverton. - This afternoon Mr R. R. Rodd, junior, Deputy County Coroner, held an Inquiry at Yelverton concerning the death of SARAH ELIZABETH GOULDER, a spinster, aged 66, of Fern Cottage, Yelverton, who died suddenly yesterday morning. - Dr Bailey said death was due to heart trouble, and a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Monday 10 May 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Man's Suicide. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, held an Inquest at Devonport on Saturday on WILLIAM FOLLAND, 58, who was found hanging at his home, 7 Clyde-street, Ford. - MRS ANNIE ELIZABETH FOLLAND, the wife, said for two years deceased had been employed as a labourer in the Dockyard. He was discharged two months ago, and during the past fortnight had been engaged as a canvasser for a directory. They were in arrears with the rent, and that had greatly worried the deceased. While he was out of work he had received 11s. per week unemployment pay, but that stopped five weeks ago. She found him in a kneeling position on the floor, with a scarf tied round his neck and fastened to the bed-post. He was dead. - Dr C. L. Lander said death was due to asphyxia, the result of strangulation. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Suicide."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 11 May 1920
SHERFORD - Late MR H. FAIRWEATHER. Inquest At Sherford. - Mr T. Edmonds, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry at Malston, Sherford, on Saturday, into the death of MR HENRY FAIRWEATHER, aged 54, farmer, who was found drowned in a pond on the farm on Thursday. - JOHN HENRY FAIRWEATHER stated his father had a serious attack of influenza about a year ago, and had since suffered from a nervous breakdown and depression. He was constantly worrying about everything in connection with his business, although there were no financial difficulties or anything to cause it. He had never threatened to take his life, and had not left any letters or papers to show that he intended to do so. Deceased's coat was lying on the bank of the pond. - R. R. Uren, farm assistant, said he saw deceased at 10 a.m. They thought he was improving in health and that morning for the first time he assisted in collecting the sheep and took an interest in the work. - Mrs M. F. Giles, Sherford Down, formerly a hospital nurse, also said that lately deceased had been very depressed and quiet. medical evidence was to the effect that deceased was suffering from neurasthenia after influenza but there were no apparent suicidal tendencies. - The Coroner returned a verdict "That deceased Committed Suicide while Temporarily of Unsound Mind." - The Funeral. - The funeral took place at Sherford yesterday. The inhabitants of the parish, where deceased was highly respected, were present, with a large number of residents from the South Hams district. The Rev. W. Parry, vicar of Stokenham and Sherford, officiated. The chief mourners were the two sons and two sisters of deceased, with a number of relatives. -

Western Evening Herald, Tuesday 11 May 1920
PLYMOUTH - The Plymouth Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, conducted an Inquest at his office, Princess-square this morning concerning the death of ELIZABETH BENNETT, a widow, aged 67 years, of 4 Clifton-street, Plymouth, who died yesterday. - Dr Mabel Ramsay stated that death was due to a ruptured aneurism of the aorta. "Natural Causes" was the verdict.

Western Evening Herald, Monday 17 May 1920
PLYMOUTH - An Open Verdict. Mystery Of A Plymouth Mason's Death. - An Inquest was held this morning at the S.D. and E.C. Hospital concerning the death of HENRY JOHN THOMAS, 59 years, a mason of Hobart-street, Stonehouse, who was found on Sunday morning in a dying condition at the foot of the Great Western Docks' wall. - ROBERT HENRY THOMAS, son of the deceased, said he last saw his father at 11 o'clock on Saturday night, when he went to bed as usual. No one saw deceased leave the house on Sunday morning. At 8 o'clock a neighbour awoke witness and told him his father had gone out, - an unusual occurrence at that hour. The deceased had been quite cheerful and had played cards with witness on the previous Saturday night. Deceased had been occasionally depressed, owing to his inability to work, through nervous trouble; but there was nothing in his mental condition to cause alarm. Later on Sunday witness was told that deceased had met with an accident, and, proceeding to the Hospital, he found that his father was dead. - P.C. John Davey said that at 6.10 a.m. on Sunday, in Millbay-road, he found a slipper (produced) on the footpath. Witness looked over the wall of the Docks and saw the deceased lying on a heap of stones. The drop was twenty-six feet. Witness went to the spot and found deceased conscious, but very weak. Asked how he accounted for getting there, the deceased replied "It's all right, I live here in this house." Deceased was removed to the Hospital. - Dr Riddel, House Surgeon, said that the deceased was admitted to the Hospital in a dying condition, suffering from injuries to the head, and over the right eye, and expired the same morning. :Witness had made a post-mortem examination and found that death was due to concussion and compression, with damage to the brain. - Recalled, P.C. Davey said that he found the corresponding slipper by the side of deceased. - The Coroner remarked that there was no definite evidence to show that deceased had fallen from the wall, though it was possible. An Open Verdict was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Monday 17 May 1920
PLYMOUTH - A Plymouth Infant's Death. - Mr John Graves, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquiry this morning at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, into the death of NORMAN MERVILLE BUCK, the three-days-old child of MR and MRS BUCK of 23 Mutley Plain. - MRS AMY HOLT, grandmother, gave evidence of identification. She said that at 6.30 a.m. on Sunday the mother was feeding the child, and afterwards dozed. Later witness took the child from the mother, who was very exhausted and placed it on the bed away from her. Soon afterwards, on picking up the child, witness saw that it was blue in the face and dead. Witness thought that deceased must have been accidentally suffocated while lying in its mother's arms. The mother had spent a sleepless night. - Dr Mabel Ramsay stated that death was due to Accidental Suffocation and a verdict to that effect was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Monday 17 May 1920
PLYMOUTH - Sad Death Of Plymouth Police Sergeant. Evidence At Inquest Today. - Police Sergeant FRANK PERCIVAL TUNSTALL, of Plymouth, who was injured on Friday through falling from a motor-car while returning from Totnes (where he had been engaged on the bigamy case) died in the South Devon Hospital yesterday morning. - The Inquest was held this morning at the S.D. and E.C. Hospital by Mr John Graves, Deputy Coroner. - Mr J. W. Bickle, solicitor, was present on behalf of the relatives. - The Chief Constable, Mr Sanders, gave evidence of identification, stating that the deceased had been sent by him to Totnes Police-Court. - William Smeeth, chauffeur, 38 Alexandra-road, Plymouth, said that on Friday last he was returning from Totnes with deceased and Mr Hortop, who had hired the car, as passengers. Between Bittaford and Ivybridge he felt something touch his shoulder and he heard a bump. Turning round, he saw the Sergeant lying in the road unconscious. Witness pulled up and went back. The helmet of the deceased was lying on the road some forty yards further back. Witness thought the deceased had lost his helmet before falling out. The car, an open Overland, had side doors about eighteen inches above the floor; the sides were low. The deceased was a tall man. There was only one other passenger. - The Sergeant was placed in the car and driven to a medical man at Ivybridge, who said it was a hospital case. Witness then drove deceased to the S.D. and E.C. Hospital. - By Mr Bickle: There was a strong wind blowing. - By the Chief Constable: The sides of the car were exceptionally low. - Fellow Passenger's Evidence. - Mr Albert James Hortop, of Garfield-terrace, Crownhill, confirmed the evidence of the last witness, adding that the accident occurred about 10 p.m., and the night was dark with a high wind. Actually, witness did not see the accident to deceased, it happened too quickly. - By Mr Bickle: He had to hold his hat on, and his right hand hid deceased from his view. - By the Chief Constable: The road there was in a very bad state and the accident occurred where it curved. - Dr James Wilfred George Riddel, House Surgeon, stated that on the 14th inst., the deceased was admitted to Hospital suffering from fractured base of the skull and concussion of the brain. The case was hopeless from the first, and deceased died on the 16th. - The Chief Constable, on behalf of the Police Force, expressed sympathy with the relatives. ~The deceased, he said, had spent four years on the East Coast of Africa during the war. He was a very zealous officer, had passed his examination for the rank of Sergeant with the maximum number of marks and was going ahead in his career. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. - The Deceased. - P.S. TUNSTALL was aged 32, a Roman Catholic and a Stonehouse man. He was one of the first members of the force to join up after the out-break of war, and he saw most of his service in German East Africa. He returned to the Plymouth force and was promoted in November last to the rank of Sergeant, having joined the force in October 1911. He was prominently connected with the Catholic Boys' Brigade. - A smart, conscientious officer, one who was most assiduous in his work for police charities, was the Chief Constable's comment on learning of the loss of one of his most promising men. The deceased was the hon. secretary of the Police Recreation Club.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 18 May 1920
TORQUAY - Torquay Child's Death. - An Inquest was held at Torquay yesterday on DOREEN GREEN, aged 2 years and 11 months, daughter of MR EDWARD GREEN, builder, and house decorator, Lymington-road, who died in the Torbay Hospital on Saturday from burns sustained on Friday evening. - The father stated that while he and his wife were in the sitting-room they heard screams and found the child on the stairs with her clothing alight. The curtains on the stairs were ablaze. Witness pulled off her clothes and wrapped her in a blanket and took her to the Hospital within ten minutes from the outbreak of the fire. Witness saw the case of a safety match-box up the stairs. She was not in the habit of playing with matches, but she seemed to be aware that she was up to some mischief. - Dr De Morgan, House Surgeon at the Torbay Hospital, said the deceased was suffering from extensive burns on the body and legs and died from shock. - GWENDOLINE GREEN, sister of the deceased, said the deceased must have got matches from upstairs. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Friday 21 May 1920
SALISBURY, WILTSHIRE - Tavistock Man's Death. Mystery Of Discovery In Salisbury Hotel. - The adjourned inquest on ROBERT HERBERT SMITH, 35, a private in the R.A.S.C., who was found dead in bed in a Salisbury hotel on April 27, was held yesterday before the city Coroner. At the opening of the Inquest on April 28, THOMAS HENRY HAWKE, mining engineer, of Parkwood-place, Tavistock, identified the body as that of his brother-in-law, who, in civilian life, was a clerk at Brown, Wills and Nicholson's, Plymouth. - Dr Gordon, of Salisbury, said he thought death was probably caused by gas poisoning, of which the rooms smelt strongly. - MRS IDA EMILY SMITH, wife of deceased, of Parkwood-place, Tavistock, said she corresponded four times weekly with her husband. He had told her he would be demobilized on the Friday, and would return to Tavistock. She could not believe he committed suicide. The blank sheet of note-paper which was the sole content of an envelope in her hand-writing, she had wrapped around the letter to prevent the contents being seen. - Letters between husband and wife were read, and the Jury returned an Open Verdict, saying there was insufficient evidence to show how death was brought about.

Western Morning News, Saturday 22 May 1920
LONDON - Fatal Influenza. Teignmouth Ex-Soldier Dies In London. - The Westminster Coroner held an Inquest yesterday on CHARLES EATON WARD, 41, an engineer and oil expert, who died suddenly in Chester-square, London. - JAMES EATON WARD, a retired railway official, of Avenue-road, Teignmouth, said the deceased, his son, had always had good health. He had been in the Army in Palestine and was demobilized in February 1919. The deceased had been employed in Brazil for some years, and at the time of his death was seeking re-employment with the same firm as an oil expert. - Other evidence showed that on Saturday morning the deceased engaged a room at a hostel in Chester-square and was returning there in the evening, when he collapsed at the gate and died. Dr Finucane said death was due to syncope from catarrhal influenza, and a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Tuesday 25 May 1920
YELVERTON - The Death Of MR ALBERT EDWARD SMITH. - The funeral of MR A. E. SMITH, of Meavy Villa, Yelverton, took place at Buckland Monachorum this afternoon. The cortege left the residence of deceased's brother, MR G. H. SMITH, J.P., C.C., Glenhaven, Alma-road, Plymouth, and a service was held at Yelverton Church. The congregation included representatives of the Borough Treasurer's staff, of which deceased was a respected member. - An Inquest was held yesterday and a verdict of "Suicide during Temporary Insanity" was returned. Deceased had been in more or less poor health for a considerable period, but performed his duties until a comparatively recent date, when illness made it necessary for him to relinquish all work.

Western Morning News, Saturday 29 May 1920
BELSTONE - Killed While Cycling. Somerset Justice's Death At Belstone. - MR WILLIAM MARSH, solicitor, a deputy-lieutenant for the county of Somerset and a colonel of the Territorial Force, of Old Sarum House, Yeovil, has died as the result of a cycling accident at Belstone, where he had been staying since the 15th inst. - The principal witness, Charles Henry Westlake, labourer, East-street, Okehampton, at the Inquest yesterday, said about 10 a.m. on Thursday he was in charge of a wagon and two horses going towards Taw Green from Belstone village, when he saw deceased coming down the road on a bicycle from the direction of Moor Hall. When deceased came to about 15 feet from the leading horse, the bicycle seemed to skid under him, and he fell on his left side, and he and the bicycle slid along the road for about eight feet. Witness helped to get deceased on to the grass close by the road, and left him there, speaking to some ladies who had come along. - Dr T. S. Wright of Okehampton, said he was called to see deceased, who was suffering from fracture of the base of the skull on the left side. The case was hopeless. Verdict, "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Monday 31 May 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Man's Suicide. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquest at Plymouth on Saturday on ALBERT EDWARD CARD. - BERTHA CARD, the widow, said her husband had been employed in the Dockyard as a labourer until recently, but his sight failed and he was discharged. When she left her home in Willow-street, about seven o'clock on Thursday morning, to go to work, her husband was getting ready to go out to get some fish to sell. When she returned about six in the evening she found him with his head in the gas stove, apparently dead. She had never heard him threaten to take his life; but he had been depressed by his failing eye-sight, which prevented him earning enough money to prevent the need of her going out to work. - Dr George Heath Fisher, of Athenaeum-terrace, said when he reached the house CARD was not quite dead, and he tried artificial respiration for half an hour without avail. He died from asphyxiation by gas. Verdict: "Suicide while of Unsound Mind."

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 2 June 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - At the Stonehouse Town Hall this morning the County Coroner, Mr R. Robinson Rodd, conducted an Inquiry into the death of LILIAN JANE ADLAM, the newly-born daughter of THOMAS ADLAM of 21 Waterloo-street, Stonehouse. Dr T. Noy Leah stated that death was due to convulsions. - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 2 June 1920
PLYMOUTH - Devonport Man's Death. - The Plymouth Coroner returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" at the Inquest yesterday on MR A. J. WILLIAMS, aged 63, a carpenter, of John-street, Devonport, who on arrival at Millbay Station from Cardiff on Monday proved to be so ill that he had to be taken to the Homeopathic Hospital, and died within a short time. Dr P. Wilmot, who attended deceased on his admission to the Hospital, gave evidence that death was due to heart disease.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 9 June 1920
PLYMSTOCK - Plymothian's Death. Woman Who Suffered From Delusion. - At Oreston yesterday Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest on LOUISA WINNICOTT, aged 53, of 33 Beaumont-avenue, Plymouth, found drowned off the Breakwater Works on Monday morning. - CHARLES FREDERICK WINNICOTT, labourer, the husband, said deceased went for a walk to Beaumont Park at 7 p.m. on Sunday. She did not return that night and witness reported the matter to the Police. She had been in bad health for the past 18 months, and attempted to drown herself last April. - Dr T. Young Simpson said he had attended the deceased since December, when she was suffering from neurasthenia. She had a delusion that she had a malignant growth. Deceased had complained of pains in the head and inability to sleep. A post-mortem examination showed a quantity of buttons and orange peel in the stomach. - Verdict: "Death from Drowning whilst of Unsound Mind." - At the close deceased's husband made an outburst in which he declared that "his wife's death had been brought about by the capitalist system, which allowed a man to walk about idle while his family starved. He would do all in his power to bring about Communism." - At the request of the Coroner he desisted.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 9 June 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Baby's Death. - Mr R. B. Johns, Plymouth Coroner, held an Inquests this morning on MARY MARGARET VIALL, the five-months-old daughter of MR and MRS E. VIALL, 43 Park-street, Plymouth. Dr Blades said the child died from congestion of the lungs and convulsions. A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Thursday 10 June 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - The Devonport Coroner found yesterday that ALFRED KELLY, tailor, Norman-avenue, Devonport, died from peritonitis accelerated by a fall, sustained while running at Yelverton on Saturday. Deceased was a member of a party of Plymouth men on a week's char-a-banc tour.

Western Morning News, Monday 14 June 1920
FALMOUTH, CORNWALL - Officer's Suicide. Farewell Letter To Wife At Devonport. - Mr E. L. Carlyon, County Coroner, held an Inquest at Falmouth on Saturday on CAPT. GEORGE F. BELL, 42 years, R.A.S.C., stationed at Pendennis Castle, who was found shot at the castle on Friday. - The Coroner stated that deceased's home was in Devonport, and he had suggested to the Police that the widow should be informed and given a chance to attend the Inquiry, if she wished to do so. The Police at Devonport had since informed the Police at Falmouth that the widow had decided not to come. It was a great pity, he thought, but at the same time it was hardly necessary to issue a subpoena for the widow to attend, as he (the Coroner) was quite satisfied as to the verdict which could be returned. - John Robbins, warden at the Castle Barracks, stated that at about two o'clock on Friday, deceased asked him for a match to light his cigarette, and then went into the lavatory. Witness heard a curious muffled sound, and going to discover the reason saw a boot protruding from under the door. He spoke and receiving no answer opened the door and found deceased had shot himself through the head. A service revolver was tightly grasped in his right hand, and of the five cartridges in the magazine one had been exploded. - Letters Of Farewell. - The Coroner read the following letter, which was found on deceased, addressed to Mr Robbins. - Dear Robbins, - Will you write to the O.C. Barracks, Devonport, and inform him of my death and ask him to break it as gently as possible to my wife? Please collect all my papers, watch, rings, &c., and send them to my wife, together with the attached letter. You will find sufficient money on me to do this. Please send the letter by registered post. Good-bye and good luck. Yours sincerely, - GEO. F. BELL. - The letter was dated June 11, 1920. The witness added that deceased asked him for the date about a quarter of an hour before his death, also a stamp. - The letter to deceased's wife read:- Dear LIL, - Good-bye, my dearest one; try to forgive me. I have made an awful hash of your life, and am going to pay the penalty. I enclose my last £5 note to help you: also my watch and rings. Kiss the kiddies. Good-bye. - From your unhappy GEO. - The witness Robbins stated that deceased had seemed a little depressed earlier in the morning, but appeared to get over it and afterwards was quite cheerful. Deceased had told witness about some departmental work he had to do, but witness did not consider it was sufficient to derange his mind. Deceased was of fine physique and there was nothing weak about him. - P.S. Light: Have you ever noticed deceased in an intoxicated state? - Robbins: No; not in the daytime. - Our information is that he had been drinking heavily. - No; not in the daytime. - Lt. A. H. Davis, adjutant, No. 5 Fire Command, Pendennis Castle, stated that the revolver deceased used belonged to Capt. Romanis, who was on leave. The weapon was quite accessible to deceased. Witness added that deceased was actively connected with sports, and was on the Area Sports Committee. - Dr Browne stated that the bullet was found under the skin near the other side of the deceased's head. - A message was received that the widow of the deceased was under the doctor's care and unable to attend the inquiry, but that a friend would attend if it was adjourned. - Deceased's State Of Mind. - The Coroner saw no reason for this procedure. Summing up, the Coroner said that there was no doubt the deceased committed suicide by shooting himself, but there was no evidence to throw any light on his condition when he did it. He returned a verdict accordingly. Deceased had appeared to be in his usual health and although he was slightly depressed, there was nothing to suggest that he was likely to commit suicide. In face of the two letters there certainly seemed to have been premeditation on deceased's part and the letter to the wife left one to suppose there was a certain amount of unhappiness between them.

Western Evening Herald, Monday 14 June 1920
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Paralysis. Plymouth Man's Illness In The Street. - The circumstances attending the death of JOHN JAMES WALLIS GRIFFEN, a carpenter, aged 68, of 33 Well-street, Plymouth, were Inquired into by the Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, at his office, Princess-square, this morning. - Evidence was given by deceased's daughter, MRS MINNIE ULLITS, of the same address, who said that deceased left home on Wednesday about 9.30 a.m. and was brought home ill two hours later. Dr Blades had previously attended him. Deceased died on Friday. - Mrs Rosina Flashman, wife of William Flashman, a joiner, of 10 King-gardens, Plymouth, stated that about 11 a.m. on Wednesday she went to her back door and saw the deceased hanging on to the aperture of the letter box of his workshop. He asked her to take him home, but he was unable to walk. He said "I think it is a seizure." He had been calling, he said, but could make no one hear. Witness stopped a passing cart and deceased was taken home. - Dr Blades said that when he arrived deceased was unconscious. He was breathing heavily and his right arm and leg were paralysed. Death took place on Friday. Witness made a post-mortem examination and found an extensive haemorrhage on the left side of the brain. There was no fracture of the skull. Death was due to the haemorrhage. - "Natural Causes" was the verdict returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 15 June 1920
SAMPFORD COURTENAY - Sticklepath Woman's Death. - Mr G. J. Atkinson, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at White Rock View, Sticklepath, Sampford Courtenay, on ANN ARSCOTT, aged 86 years, who died on Friday last. - EMILY TAYLOR, daughter of deceased, said on March 24 her mother fell out of bed. Dr Wright, of Okehampton, was called in on March 30, and attended her to her death on June 11. Dr Wright said he thought death was due to exhaustion and septicaemia, following an acute bed sore. - The Deputy Coroner entered a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Western Evening Herald, Tuesday 15 June 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Baby's Death. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, conducted an Inquiry at his office this morning into the death of MARJORY MCLAREN HARRIS, the nine months' old daughter of WILLIAM HARRIS, a Dockyard labourer, of 5 Ashley-place, North Road. The mother stated that yesterday morning the child seemed to have a fit and died. - Dr Blades certified that death was due to convulsions caused by bronchial pneumonia. The child had been properly cared for. "Natural Causes" was the verdict.

Western Evening Herald, Monday 21 June 1920
PLYMOUTH - Late Sergt.-Major COVENTRY. Inquest At Plymouth Today. - Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, held an Inquiry this morning relative to the death of BAND-SERGT.-MAJOR CHARLES WILLIAM COVENTRY, aged 52, of 22 Cleveland-road, Plymouth, who died with tragic suddenness on Friday evening. - The evidence of BOMBR. ALEXANDER COVENTRY (R.G.A.), a son, was to the effect that Sergt.-Major COVENTRY, on being taken ill, went to bed and after being rubbed, said he felt much better. Witness thought it was an attack of bronchitis. After having brandy, deceased gasped for breath and died before a doctor arrived. - Dr J. P. S. Ward said he had made a post-mortem examination, and found that death was due to valvular disease of the heart which caused syncope. - The Coroner was asked whether he was of opinion that deceased's death was caused by military service. If so, it should be entered in the depositions, as it would make a great difference to the widow's pension. - Mr Johns replied that unfortunately it had nothing to do with him. He had no doubt, however, a note to that effect could be obtained from Dr Ryan, who previously attended deceased, but was now in Jersey. - Dr Ward remarked that deceased never had rheumatic fever and in an ordinary case of heart disease he did not think it could possibly be said that death was due to military service. - Bombdr. COVENTRY, recalled, said his father often complained of his heart on returning from a route march. - Dr Ward: Yes, he would unquestionably do so. - Lieut. Lang added that deceased had been 37 ½ years in the Service. - A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned and the Coroner stated that he would make every effort to obtain Dr Ryan's address so that he might be communicated with on the matter.

Western Morning News, Thursday 24 June 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymothian's Suicide. - A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned at an Inquest yesterday on SAMUEL GATEHOUSE, aged 63, a cashier employed by the London Association for the Protection of Trade, who lived in Mount Gold-road, Plymouth. - SARAH GATEHOUSE, the widow, said her husband had suffered severely for a long time. On Tuesday morning she was aroused by a smell of gas, and on going to deceased's room found him lying unconscious in bed with the gas turned full on. She turned the gas off and sent for Dr Angus Macdonald, who stated that death was due to Gas Poisoning.

Western Morning News, Friday 25 June 1920
EVESHAM, WORCESTERSHIRE - Devon Rector's Death. Side-car Struck By Lorry: Alleged Neglect. - The Inquest on the REV. THOMAS EDWARDS, Musbury Rectory, Axminster, who died at Evesham Hospital on Wednesday following a motor-cycle accident at Ashton-under-Hill, Gloucestershire, on the Tuesday night, was held at Evesham yesterday. - Rev. R. S. Robinson, vicar of Seaton, said he was driving the motor-cycle, with deceased in the side-car, from Evesham to Tewkesbury, when near Ashton he saw a motor lorry approaching on its wrong side about 50 yards away. Witness slowed up to allow the lorry to draw over, but it did not do so. Witness attempted to get to the other side of the road, but the lorry struck the side-car and deceased was thrown out. - Medical evidence showed that deceased died from a fractured skull. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned and the Jury were of opinion that there was a certain amount of neglect by the driver of the lorry.

Western Morning News, Saturday 26 June 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Street Fatality. - Mr J. Graves, Deputy Coroner, conducted an Inquest at the Homeopathic Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday on FRANCIS HENRY MOIR, 17, apprenticed motor mechanic, of Clarendon-place, Plymouth, who was killed in George-street on Wednesday. - Mr F. H. Edwards, gunsmith, George-street, said when near Derry's Clock shortly after one o'clock on Wednesday his attention was directed to the deceased, who was riding a bicycle in the direction of Millbay in a zigzag fashion, as though something had upset him. When near the tramway queue island the machine fell from under him and he was thrown under the double wheels of a heavy motor wagon, which was proceeding from Millbay at about four miles an hour. - Cyril Crocker, a young motor mechanic, said he was crossing the road when he was struck on the arm either by deceased or his bicycle. Deceased then swerved away and fell just in front of the motor lorry. Witness disagreed with the previous witness, and did not think the wheels passed over the deceased. It seemed that the mudguard threw him clear. - Dr Travers Stubbs proved serious internal injuries and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned. - Mr C. G. Brian watched the proceedings on behalf of the owners and driver of the motor lorry.

Western Evening Herald, Saturday 26 June 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Inquest. Cause Of Death Not Discovered. - At the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, today, the Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, conducted an Inquiry into the death at the Hospital on the 23rd inst. of MARY DUNN KILGALLON, wife of JOHN KILGALLON of 13 Home Park-avenue, Plymouth. - Dr Riddle stated that he had made a post-mortem examination, but could find nothing to show the cause of death. A part of the internal organs had been sent to the public analyst for examination. - In view of this the Inquiry was adjourned until Monday, July 5th.

Western Evening Herald, Monday 28 June 1920
PLYMOUTH - Struck By Engine. Plymouth Shunter's Death. - The circumstances under which ARTHUR HENRY RICH of 27 Neath-road, Plymouth, a foreman shunter on the Great Western Railway, met his death when he was knocked down by a railway engine at Mount Gold Halt on Friday, were related at an Inquest conducted this morning by Mr R. B. Johns, at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital. - JOHN HENRY BEALE, greengrocer, of Beaumont-road, Plymouth, a brother-in-law of the deceased, said RICH, who was 51 years of age, had to his knowledge always enjoyed both good hearing and sight. - Alfred Jones, of Brandon-road, Plymouth, an engine driver, stated that when driving the train from Plymouth to Yealmpton he saw the deceased near Mount Gold Halt, apparently off the line. His fireman, Bartlett, afterwards told him they had struck a man, and on stopping the train they found deceased with his head on his arm, his feet towards Friary, and his head towards the Embankment. He was still alive, but unconscious. In his opinion the deceased mistook the train for a London and South Western Railway one. - William Henry Hannaford, the guard, who was seated on the left-hand wing of his van, said that on nearing Mount #Gold junction he saw RICH standing upon the line and facing the side of the engine. He was not on the track, being slightly away from the lines. Seeing the side of the engine knock him witness jumped to the window and gave the danger signal. - Dr J. W. Riddel, House Surgeon at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, said that when deceased was brought into the Hospital he was dead. Witness found death was due to severe internal injuries. The ribs, liver and lungs were smashed and the abdomen was full of blood. - The Jury brought in a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Evening Herald, Thursday 1 July 1920
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, the Borough Coroner, conducted an Inquest, at his office in Princess-square, Plymouth, this morning relative to the death of PATRICIA CROOK, the newly-born female child of ERNEST J. CROOK of 78 Salisbury-road, Plymouth. The child was born on the 28th ult. and died thirty minutes after birth. - Dr Walsh stated that the child was not fully developed and a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Thursday 1 July 1920
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns, the Borough Coroner conducted an Inquest at his office in Princess-square, Plymouth, this morning relative to the death of EDWARD FAULCONER, aged 72, of independent means of 45 Connaught-avenue, Mutley, Plymouth. - George Harris, a retired naval warrant officer of 4 Pentillie-crescent, Mutley, gave evidence of identification. - Dr Sedley Wolferstan stated that he had attended the deceased for the last 25 years, and latterly for debility. Witness had been informed that on the 20th ult., when rising from a table, the deceased fell and injured his hip and had had to remain in bed. Death was due to senile decay, accelerated by the fall. - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Friday 2 July 1920
ILSINGTON - Newton Man Found Hanging. - Mr Sidney Hacker conducted an Inquiry at Liverton, near Newton Abbot, last evening into the death of RICHARD MANNING, labourer, aged 50, who was discovered hanging from a beam in a stable at the Star Inn, Ilsington, on Wednesday. - JOHN MANNING, of Ash-hill, Highweek, stated that deceased lodged with him and he last saw him alive on Saturday. He was a heavy drinker. - William Henry French, foreman for Fothergill Bros., road contractors, Exeter, said deceased had been working for the firm in the Ilsington district, tar-spraying the roads. On Monday evening he disputed the amount of money he had received the previous week and struck witness, who retaliated. On Tuesday he saw deceased again and told him he would give him another start on Wednesday morning. The little fuss was forgotten, and witness stood him a drink. - P.C. Sanders said deceased had a black eye and in reply to the Coroner, French said: "Most likely I gave it to him." - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Death from Hanging."

Western Morning News, Monday 5 July 1920
PLYMOUTH - Must Be Careful. Coroner's Warning To Railway Workers. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned by Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, at a Plymouth Inquest on Saturday on LEWIS RICHARD PITT, aged 69, Harwell-street, foreman's clerk, in the employ of the Great Western Railway Company. - A Beavis, engine driver, Belmont-street, said at 2.55 p.m. on Thursday he was driving an engine from the shed at Millbay to the Station. He saw deceased walking on a path in the direction of the engine. He was quite clear of all traffic and witness leaned over the gangway of the engine thinking he would be able to speak to deceased, but missed him. There was a strong wind blowing at the time and witness noticed the tail part of a mackintosh coat at the end of the engine. - Having stopped the engine in a distance of its own length, witness found deceased leaning on one elbow and bleeding from the head. He was conscious. - Francis George Bunce, fireman, Woolster-street, having given corroborative evidence, Dr J. W. G. H. Riddel, House Surgeon, South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, said deceased died the same day, his condition being hopeless. - In exonerating the driver from all blame, the Coroner remarked: "It is the second fatality which has happened in this vicinity within a few days." - Mr N. Cook, Locomotive Inspector, Newton Abbot, was present on behalf of the Great Western Railway Co.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 6 July 1920
KINGSBRIDGE - ROBERT ANGER, aged 53, a retired naval warrant officer, residing at Goveton, near Kingsbridge, was found on Wednesday lying dead on the road about a mile from his home. At an Inquest it was ascertained that he died from valvular disease of the heart.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 6 July 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner, returned a verdict of "Natural Causes" at an Inquest last evening on ELIZABETH HAMBLEY, 60, wife of a naval pensioner, residing in Hamilton-street, Keyham, who was found dead in bed that morning. Dr C. L. Lander attributed death to valvular disease of the heart.

Western Evening Herald, Thursday 8 July 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Infant's Death At Devonport. - At Devonport this morning the Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, held an Inquiry concerning the death of FREDERICK PHILIP WARREN, the son of ERNEST PHILIP WARREN, an able seaman in the Royal Navy, and residing at 10 Cornwall-street. - Marianne Barker, certificated midwife, attached to the Queen Victoria Jubilee Nursing Institution, attended the mother, the child being born at midnight on Tuesday. It was very weak and she recommended that a doctor be sent for. The child died at 12.25 a.m. - Dr G. Sandford attributed death to heart failure, and the Coroner recorded a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Friday 9 July 1920
PLYMOUTH - Naval Pensioner's Suicide. - An Inquest was held at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, concerning the death of a naval pensioner named JENKIN THOMAS LEONARD. - His sister-in-law, with whom he lived in Prospect-street, said on July 2 she found him in his bedroom with his throat cut. He was removed to the Hospital by the George-street ambulance. Deceased was 41 years of age and unmarried. He had been out of work lately and was much depressed. He had been attended by Dr Aikman, but she had never heard him threaten to take his own life. - Mr J. W. G. H. Riddel, House Surgeon, said the case was hopeless from the first. - The Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, returned a verdict of "Suicide while Temporarily Insane."

Western Evening Herald, Monday 12 July 1920
PLYMOUTH - Verdict At An Adjourned Plymouth Inquest. - An Inquests held a fortnight ago on the body of MARY DUNN KILGALLON, wife of JOHN KILGALLON, 13 Home Park-avenue, Plymouth, who died at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, had to be adjourned because a post-mortem examination had failed to show the cause of death. - The Inquiry was continued by Mr R. B. Johns, the Borough Coroner, at the Hospital this morning, when Dr Riddel said that he had examined part of the internal organs analytically and had not detected the presence of poison. In view of this and the post-mortem examination he was now satisfied that death was due to hypostatic pneumonia. - The Coroner accordingly recorded a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 13 July 1920
OKEHAMPTON - Old Lady Killed Through Motor Car Swerving. - At Okehampton last evening Mr H. P. Brown held an Inquest on ELIZABETH COAD, aged 76, widow, of 58 Northfield-road, Okehampton, who died in the Infirmary on Saturday, after having been knocked down by a motor car on the footpath on the East Bridge, Okehampton, earlier in the day. - William G. Ash, of Velstone, a motor driver in the employ of the Monmouth and South Wales Colliery Co., deposed that on Saturday he was driving down East-street and when near the Fountain Hotel noticed two cars standing by the kerb beyond the Hotel. On the opposite side of the road, coming up the street, was a horse and van, with an agricultural implement behind. It was on its correct side. Witness drove between these vehicles and when he had passed them his car "swung round right-handed by itself," and that was the first he knew of anything having gone wrong. He came in contact with the tail of the implement, but did not strike it hard enough to damage the car, which mounted the kerb and hit the deceased. He was travelling at seven or eight miles an hour. He had not time to stop the car when it swerved. An examination proved that the radius rod had dropped out and this caused the car to get out of control. He produced the lower half of the ball socket, which was handed him by someone who picked it up after the accident. - Evidence was given by several eye-witnesses and Dr G. V. Burd said he found deceased with her right arm and leg broken. Her leg was amputated and she died soon afterwards from shock and loss of blood. - The Jury returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and the Coroner was asked to communicate with the Town Council with a view to a recommendation being made to the Board of Trade for the fixing of a speed limit for motor vehicles in the town, the streets being very narrow in places.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 14 July 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Inquest At Devonport. - The District Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquiry this afternoon at the North Yard, Devonport, into the sudden death of a hammerman named JOHN BEER, aged 55, who resided at 58 Northesk-street, Devonport. - Evidence was given by two fellow-employees of deceased in the Devonport Dockyard showed that while at work he fell to the ground in an unconscious condition. - Surgeon-Commander Haydon, R.N., attributed death to syncope, due to fatty degeneration of the heart and the Coroner recorded a verdict accordingly. Sympathy was expressed with the widow.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 14 July 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - Fireman's Death From Scalds. Story Of Accident Told At Stonehouse. - The circumstances under which GEORGE OLIVER SYKES, 43, a fireman on board the Marchioness of Lorne, met his death were related at an Inquest conducted by Mr R. R. Rodd at the Royal Naval Hospital this morning. - Morris W. Potter, a master mariner, stated that whilst the Marchioness of Lorne, a British paddle-steamer, was at sea on June 29th the deceased was carrying a tin containing half-a-gallon of tea through the galley on the main deck to the forecastle, also on the main deck. On reaching the end of the covered passage he was rounding the corner to the left when the engineer of the ship rose from looking down one of the coal bunkers and collided with him, deceased being accidentally thrown over. The boiling contents of the tin fell over deceased, causing scalds on the left forearm and hand. Witness treated the scalds and landed deceased at the R.N. Barracks, Devonport, the following morning. During the evening of the 29th the naval health doctor came on board to examine the crew and the engineer drew his attention to deceased's condition. He did nothing beyond advising that deceased should be treated at the depot. In treating the scalds witness, who possessed a naval certificate for first aid, noticing nothing unusual, did not consider it necessary to send SYKES ashore for treatment until the evening of arrival. He believed SYKES to be a naval pensioner. - William W. D. Chilcott, Surgeon-Commander, R.N. Barracks, who first saw deceased at the Barracks on July 1, found the left forearm and hand were scalded, and there was a slight abrasion on the right leg. He attended to the scalds and repeated the dressings the two following mornings. On Monday deceased showed a satisfactory improvement and witness told him to see him again if he was unwell. On the 9th inst. an ambulance was sent to the Marchioness of Lorne to remove deceased to the R.N. Barracks. On examination he found sceptic poisoning had set in on the left hand and deceased's temperature was very high. SYKES, who said he had felt "queer" during the evening, was removed to the R.N. Barracks Hospital, but witness did not consider it a hospital case. The treatment administered to him was the usual one for scalds. - Richard F. Quinton, Medical Practitioner of the R.N. Barracks Hospital, said deceased, when admitted on the 8th inst., was suffering from sceptic scalds on the left forearm and hand. Treatment was given, but deceased did not improve and died three days after from septicaemia. Witness agreed with Surgeon-Commander's Chilcott's treatment. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Friday 16 July 1920
BERE FERRERS - The Tavy Tragedy. Inquest Opened At Bere Ferrers. - Dangers Of The River. - The Inquest on the victims of the Tavy boating fatality was opened at Bere Ferrers yesterday afternoon by Mr R. Robinson Rodd, sen. - The victims were: ALFRED STANLEY PETERS, 31, hairdresser and tobacconist, of Marlborough-street, Devonport, son of MR J. T. PETERS of 28 Garden-street, who was in charge of the party. - GERTRUDE LAWS, 37, a widow of a soldier killed in France of 6 Albert-road, Devonport. - RONALD LAWS, 9 and EDWARD LAWS, 5, children of GERTRUDE LAWS. - A Sound Boat. - MR JOHN THOMAS PETERS, a naval pensioner of 28 Garden-street, Devonport, said that he and eight others left Moon Cove, Morice Town, on Wednesday afternoon, about 2 o'clock, in his motor launch, which was new a few months before the war, and perfectly sound. It was 20 feet long and had a six ft. beam. It had carried 20 persons easily. It was driven by a petrol engine of 4 h.p. On the way up they called at Saltash where some others were to have joined them, but had been prevented by illness. The journey up the Tavy was made as far as Lopwell Marshes, above Maristowe Quay, where they landed, and had tea on the bank. They had come up on a flood tide and directly witness noticed that the tide was ebbing he called to the party, "Come on, people." On the way down there was considerably more water in the river than when they went up. PETERS was steering the boat and his son was looking after the engine. The remainder sat in the roomy part of the boat in the front. They were going very slowly, and an apprentice boy, named William Nicholls was sounding the depth of the water with a light boat-hook, and was reporting all the way along, "Plenty of water, sir." - A Panic. - "We had been going about five minutes," continued PETERS, "when all of a sudden we struck something that penetrated the bottom of the boat and water began to rush in rapidly." - Witness shouted to the apprentice boy to push her nose round to the bank if he could touch bottom; but the water was too deep, and after they had made a desperate effort to cut paddles, a panic ensued and the boat capsized and remained floating upside down. - "If the occupants had kept still, everyone would have been saved," witness assured the Coroner, "but it all happened in a minute." - Everyone was thrown into the water. There were eight cork cushions in the boat, and he called to everyone to catch hold of one. ~Witness got one himself and gripped his wife managing also, with the aid of a boat-hook, to drag her and himself to the bank, which was too steep to climb. Thus he was unable to help anyone else, as he had to keep his wife, who was more dead than alive, above water. - Two young ladies named Miss Rothery and Miss Webber saved themselves by clinging to a branch of a tree. The boy Nicholls was able to jump from the bow of the boat, before it capsized, to the bank. - Witness had only been up the river once before; some of the party had visited it on several occasions. - The Coroner: Having regard to what you know now, you consider it an unsafe place? - Witness: Yes; but a much larger motor-boat than mine had gone down the river some five minutes ahead. Of course, six inches of deviation might have averted the disaster. - The Coroner said he knew the river very well; it was very difficult and dangerous for strangers. - The Search. - MR PETERS added a thorough search was made for the bodies of the victims at the time of the accident, but without result, until nine o'clock in the evening, when all were found in the vicinity of the boat. - There had been four motor-boats up the river that afternoon. One boat was called to assist when the accident happened, but replied that it had also come to grief. There were also rowing boat parties who had landed on the Lopwell bank for tea. Nobody had stopped witness from going up so far. - MR PETERS said he had since heard it stated that there were submerged trees in the river. - Adjournment. - The Coroner: In listening to the evidence of MR PETERS I have come to the conclusion that this river is in a dangerous state for people in boats who are not familiar with the place. I assume it is private property; but if the owners allow the public to use the river for pleasure and to land upon the banks, I think it is incumbent on them to put the river in a safe condition or to prevent the public from using it. Of course, I do not know what the facts are in connection with the matter. I mean to adjourn the inquiry to hear the facts from the agents. - He believed the owners were Lady Seaton, Lord Mount Edcumbe and Sir Henry Lopes. - The Coroner expressed his deepest sympathy with MR PETERS and his family and those connected with MRS LAWS in so sudden and sad a bereavement and at the same time he expressed gratitude to all those who rendered assistance. - The Inquest will be re-opened at Bere Ferrers at noon tomorrow. - The Rev. James Sharpe (Rector of Bere Ferrers) attended the Inquest to express the sympathy of the parish with those concerned in the sad affair. It had, he said, cast a gloom over the village. - The bodies of the victims are to be conveyed to Devonport for burial. - MRS PETERS is recovering satisfactorily.

Western Evening Herald, Saturday 17 July 1920
BERE FERRERS - Tavy Tragedy. Inquest Concluded Today. The Verdict. Coroner On Dangers Of The River. - The River Tavy boating fatality, resulting in the loss of four lives, was further Inquired into by the County Coroner, Mr R. Robinson Rodd, at Bere Ferrers this afternoon. - The victims were ALFRED STANLEY PETERS, 31, hairdresser and tobacconist, of Marlborough-street, Devonport; GERTRUDE LAWS, 37, widow of a soldier killed in France, of 6 Albert-road, Devonport; and her two children, RONALD and EDWARD LAWS, aged 9 and 5 years respectively. - At the opening of the Inquiry it had been stated that the river was privately owned, and the opinion was expressed that at the point where the accident occurred it was in a dangerous condition. The Coroner held the view that the owners should put the river in a safe condition, or prevent the public from using it, and he accordingly adjourned the Inquest until today in order that evidence might be obtained from the agents of the owners as to the conditions under which the public were allowed to use the river. - The resumed Inquiry today was attended by Mr J. Eyton Peck, representing the Admiralty, while Mr Anthony W. E. Cook represented the Earl of Mount Edgcumbe, who, together with Lady Seaton, are the riparian owners. - Lord Seaton's Gamekeepers. - The story of the accident having been previously related by MR JOHN THOMAS PETERS, naval pensioner, 28 Garden-street, Devonport, who was in charge of the boat at the time, the first witness called today was Charles Reeves, gamekeeper, employed by Lord Seaton, of Buckland Abbey. He stated that at 6 p.m. on Wednesday last he passed down the left bank of the Tavy, but noticed nothing unusual. The deceased children were playing on the Terrace Marsh on the Bere bank of the river, about 200 yards from where he subsequently recovered their dead bodies. About quarter to eight that same evening witness was informed by his children of the drowning of the deceased, and later was told by the Rev. Leigh-Lye and MR PETERS what had happened. - Proceeding up the bank with a Mr Salter, witness recovered the body of RONALD LAWS under the Bere bank in about two feet of water and about twenty yards from the spot where the accident occurred. He was dead. Then they got to where the motor-boat was, and found it grounded in about three feet of water. The dead bodies of the other three deceased persons were lying by the boat on the starboard side. The four bodies were subsequently removed to the Bere Ferrers Reading Room. - A Submerged Tree. - Replying to the Coroner, witness said about twenty yards from where the motor-boat was there was a tree in the bed of the river with spurs on it. In his opinion this was what the boat struck. Serious damage was caused to the bow. He had known the tree in the same place for twenty-five years. - "It is about time that tree is removed," commented the Coroner. "That is my object of this Inquiry to try and get it removed by somebody," he added. - Answering further questions from the Coroner, witness said there was a rent in the bow of the boat five feet six inches long and between two and three inches wide. About twenty-five ribs were damaged. Witness believed the trouble was caused through the boat travelling too fast. He added that there were other snags in the river which were dangerous. He had not known of any previous fatality from a similar accident. - A Dangerous River. - John Neal McCloud, retired lieut.-commander, R.N., residing at Lopwell, corroborated the last witness's evidence in regard to the recovery of the bodies. The boat, in his opinion, must have quickly filled. It was absolutely dangerous in the present state of the river for people to go boating beyond the Needles at the end of Lopwell Marsh. - In reply to the Coroner, witness said there were no written notices exhibited warning the public that the river was dangerous for boating. - It was stated that Lady Seaton allowed no parties to land on the side she owned, whilst Mr Cook explained that the Earl of Mount Edgcumbe only allowed persons to land who had been given permission. - The Coroner observed that it was such a beauty spot that the public were attracted there particularly above the Needles. - The Coroner's Summing Up. - Reviewing the evidence, the Coroner pointed out that these were tidal waters, and it was thus a question in which the Crown came in. It was a legal question whether the public could be prevented from using that portion of the river. If the public used the river they did so at their own risk, but at the same time it was a matter for the riparian owners and the Crown to see that the obstruction caused by snags was dealt with in some way. - He was satisfied on the evidence that the deceased were Accidentally Drowned in the River Tavy, and that the cause of the mishap was probably the speed at which the motor-boat was travelling, striking the spur of the tree and ripping the bow in such a way as to cause the boat to fill and in the subsequent panic to topple over and cause the drowning. It was of course an accident. - To Prevent Future Trouble. - They had been favoured with the presence at the inquiry of representatives of the riparian owners and of the Crown and he proposed to leave it with Mr Peck in the hope that the matter would be gone into by the Crown authorities and the riparian owners to see what could be done in order to prevent the risk of accident in the future and with the idea that those snags might be removed. - A verdict of "Accidental Drowning" was accordingly returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 17 July 1920
EXMINSTER - Tramp's Suicide At Exminster. - An Inquest on JOHN BOOT, 39, said to be a native of Manchester, whose body was recovered from the Exeter Canal near the limekilns, was held at Exminster yesterday by Mr H. W. Gould, Coroner. - Evidence of identification was given by P.S. Hambley, Exmouth, who said deceased was arrested at Exmouth last month and charged at the recent Assizes, but discharged. He said he was on tramp and that he had no relatives. - William Preston, labourer, who recovered the body from the canal, said that a large stone was attached to a piece of rope tied round deceased's neck. - P.C. Mardon, Exminster, said the stone weighed 25lb. - Among the articles found on deceased was a copy of the evidence given him at the Assizes, and a copy of "The Western Morning News," dated July 6, 1920. The Coroner returned a verdict of "Felo-de-se."

Western Evening Herald, Tuesday 20 July 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - The Bull Point Fatality. Inquest Opened On Able Seaman's Death. - The body of Able Seaman DAVID CRITCHLEY, of James-street, Plymouth, who was drowned as a result of the collision between the paddle steamer Eleanor, belonging to the Saltash Steamboat Company, and a Naval liberty launch, off Bull Point on July 7th, was picked up on Sunday. The remainder of the crew were saved. - Mr R. R. Rodd opened an Inquiry yesterday and the Inquest was adjourned until Friday morning.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 21 July 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Child's Fatal Burns. Inquest At Devonport. - The Devonport Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, conducted an Inquiry at the Royal Albert Hospital this afternoon into the death of LILIAN GERTRUDE A. DOYLE, the 15-year-old daughter of EMMA JANE DOYLE, 27 Pembroke-street, Devonport. - It appeared from the evidence that on the 4th July the deceased was in a room of a friend, a Mrs Patton, who resides at 70 James-street. She was standing with her back to the fire, where her dress caught alight and she ran into the court. Mrs Patton called to her brother-in-law, who came and put out the flames. - Mrs Patton, replying to the Coroner as to why she did not do something to put the flames out, said she was frightened and did not know what to do. - Dr Marion Crawford, House Surgeon, said the girl was suffering from shock and extensive burns. She progressed for the first few days, then became worse and died on Tuesday afternoon. Death was due to septicaemia following burns. - The Coroner returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence. He said it was a pity that efforts to extinguish the flames were not made earlier.

Western Evening Herald, Friday 23 July 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - Hamoaze Collision. Inquest On Able-Seaman This Morning. The Verdict. - An Inquest was held at the R.N. Hospital this morning respecting the death of A. B. DAVID CRITCHLEY, aged 25, H.M.S. Vivid, 38 James-street, Plymouth, who was drowned on the night of July 7th, as the result of a collision near Bull Point between the steam launch 134 and s.s. Eleanor, belonging to the Saltash Steamboat Company. - The body was found floating off North Corner at 5.54 a.m. on July 18th by P.C. Freeman. - The Coroner was Mr R. Robinson Rodd, and Mr Lawrence was Foreman of the Jury. - Mr M. Elliott Square represented the Steamboat Company and Mr W. Leader, managing director of the company, was also present. - Mr K. Eyton Peck was for the Admiralty. - George Roach, 1st class petty officer, said that on July 7th he was coxswain of the steam launch 134 and left the Flagstaff Steps at 11.15 p.m. for H.M.S. Rinaldo, moored to No. 15 buoy above Bull Point. Returning to the Barracks- Pier at 11.40 on the ebb tide with a south-west wind blowing (it was a very dark night) he noticed the green light of the s.s. Eleanor, their starboard light being on his starboard bow, about 300 yards distant. The lights being green to green he continued his course until about 125 yards away when the Eleanor blew one blast. One blast was blown from witness's boat and at the same time witness ported his helm to cross the Eleanor's bow. - The boat did not respond to the helm, and witness gave orders, "Astern starboard, ahead port." When about six yards away, seeing the collision could not be avoided, he gave orders to stop, and the Eleanor hit witness's boat on the starboard bow a glancing blow. When the launch started to sink he gave orders to the crew to abandon the boat. Later he found the deceased, who was his bowman, missing. - Rule Of The Road. - The Coroner: When you were "green to green," why did you not starboard and so open out more? - Witness: It would have been against the rules of the road. I should have continued on my course "green to green" had the Eleanor not shown me her two lights. - Replying to the Foreman, witness said that on boarding the Eleanor after his boat had sunk he rushed to the bridge to see who was there. What the Eleanor did seemed silly, especially as he had a twin-screw boat. - Mr Square: When you were a distance of 150 yards from the Eleanor you were both red light to red light? - Witness: No; green to green. The lights were never red to red. - Witness gave the opinion that the impact of the collision knocked deceased overboard. - Elias Warren, A.B., a member of the crew of the launch, said that while standing in the wheel-house he heard one blast from the Eleanor, and looking saw both her navigation lights. The launch responded with a single blast, and the order "Astern, starboard, ahead port" was given. It was, however, too late, and the collision occurred. - The Foreman: If both steamers continued their course, would the collision have happened? - Witness: I cannot say. - P.O. Roach, recalled, said he considered the Eleanor was proceeding at about nine knots an hour. - A. Lacey, stoker petty officer, who was in charge of the engine-room department, related the orders he received, and said that following 'ahead together' came the instructions "astern starboard, ahead port," and then "stop." - Replying to the Coroner, witness said the launch was damaged from the top of the gunwhale to within two feet of the bottom of the keel. He imagined the bows of the Eleanor penetrated the launch about 4 ft. The launch would easily carry 100 liberty men. - The Master Of The Eleanor. - The first witness from the Eleanor was the master, William John Jerford, a certificated pilot, who stated that he left Northcorner at 11.30 p.m., taking the Eastern course, and proceeded up the Hamoaze in the direction of Saltash. When off Bull Point he sighted a steam launch 'showing us his red light to our red light.' The Eleanor gave one blast, intimating that they were continuing their course, or going to starboard if possible, but it was impossible to go to starboard because of the lighters. When witness sighted the launch the boats were from 150 to 200 yards apart. Shortly after the coxwain of the launch gave the green light and witness could see a collision could not be averted. Witness took the only course, and stopped and reversed his engines. After the collision witness saw that the launch was sinking and when the crew got aboard the Eleanor one man was found to be missing. A search was immediately made, but without avail. - The Launch Or Her Lights? - Mr Peck: Did you see the launch or her lights? - Witness: The lights, sir. - Mr Peck: Why say you saw the launch? There is a difference, isn't there? - Witness: I meant the lights, sir. You would not see light on a wheelbarrow in the Hamoaze would you? ( laughter). - Continuing, witness said he heard no whistle from the launch. - Mr Peck: Do you consider as a practical man that it was a safe thing to keep within fifty feet of the lighters so that you could not alter your course in that direction? - Witness replied that they generally kept that course, but being so close to the lighters did not, in his opinion, contribute in any way to the collision. - Charles Studdon, mate, said that when near Bull Point he noticed the red light of the launch showing to their red. Witness gave one blast on the siren, and he did not hear a whistle from the launch. - Charles Southey, engineer on the Eleanor, also gave evidence, and, replying to the Coroner, said he did not hear the look-out man shout, 'Look out, they are crossing our bows.' - Ernest Studder, look-out on the Eleanor, said he noticed the red light of the steam launch and later he noticed the launch alter their course and show their "green." The Eleanor sounded her siren but he did not hear a whistle from the launch. - Summing Up And Verdict. - The Coroner, in summing up, said that from the rules of the road if the boats were "green to green" it was impossible for them to have collided, and why Roach should have crossed the bows of the Eleanor in that position was a mystery to him. Having done so, and if the Jury considered the evidence that they were "red to red," then they must decide that it was negligence. - The Jury returned a verdict that deceased was Accidentally Drowned while on duty through the negligence of the coxswain, but that such negligence was not culpable but an error of judgment. - The Coroner, on behalf of the Jury and Mr Square (for the company) expressed sympathy with the widow.

Western Morning News, Saturday 24 July 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - Drowned In The Tamar. - At the R.N. Hospital, yesterday, Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, held an Inquest on Signalman WILLIAM ALBERT DERBYSHIRE, R.N., aged 23, single, of Palmer's Green, London. - Able Seaman John Lee, R.N., stated that on the 11th inst., deceased, witness and some other men went for a row in a skiff dinghy. On returning to the sloop, witness fell from the gangway into the water. As he was climbing back into the boat, DERBYSHIRE jumped into the water, evidently with the idea of saving witness. Continuing, witness said he immediately ran to the stern of the boat and endeavoured to reach deceased with a boathook, but, on failing, he again took to the water, but still failed to save the man. - The Coroner was informed that there was a strong ebb tide running at the time, and deceased might have been swept away within a very few seconds of falling overboard. - Inspector Maddeford deposed that the body was found in the River Lynher on the 20th inst. - A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned, the Coroner remarking that it was not clear to him how the deceased got into the water. It might have been that he was trying to assist Lee, or he might have been thrown into the water as Lee got into the boat. - Mr K. Eyton Peck represented the Admiralty.

Western Morning News, Saturday 24 July 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Dockyard Fatality. Danger Of Boarding Trains In Motion. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Keyham Dockyard yesterday on JOHN FRANCIS MATHER, 59, shipwright, 19 Goschen-street, Devonport, who was run over by a Dockyard train the previous day. Mr J. Owner, Home-office Inspector, was present. - Surg.-Com. W. T. Haydon described deceased's injuries, and said death was due to shock. - Charles H. Parker, engine driver, H.M. Dockyard, said about 7.50 a.m. on Thursday he was on his engine, which was waiting for a train to pass on the main line. Witness saw that train come to a standstill and after "Clear" had been given by the guard, start again. A man who was running caught up to the workmen's carriage, and throwing the bag he was carrying into the compartment, tried to jump on to the bottom step, at the same time clutching the top step. He slipped and still hanging to the top step was dragged about a yard, when some of those inside the carriage tried to drag him in. Deceased, however, released his hold and fell to the ground. The step of the oncoming carriage caught him and turned him under the wheels. Witness signalled one continuous blast to the driver of the train to stop, which it immediately did. - The Coroner: It is a constant thing for men to jump on to a train in motion? - It is a frequent thing, and should be stopped. There was a notice on the train warning men not to board it whilst in motion, but it was a daily occurrence. - Engine-room Art. F. W. Perkin corroborated and said the train was travelling at about four or five miles an hour and pulled up about five yards after being clear of deceased. - W. J. Bignell, labourer, who was a passenger in the carriage which deceased tried to board, described the accident; and Wm. Jno. Hayman, guard of the train in question, said he signalled the train to start and jumped on to the engine as he was at that end of the train. - Asked by the Coroner if he was supposed to ride on the engine, witness said he did not know, but they often had to do so. Deceased had ridden with witness hundreds of times and he had never seen him jump on a train in motion. Although it was a common thing for men to board a train in motion, this was the first fatal accident. - The Coroner, after further evidence, returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" and sympathy was expressed with the widow and family.

Western Morning News, Saturday 24 July 1920
EXETER - Dr Pereira Gray told the Exeter Coroner that the primary cause of the death of WILLIAM BICKLE, aged 75, who fell on his nose while drunk, was shock, caused by a broken nose. The Coroner's verdict was "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 27 July 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Buried In A Trench. - The death of JAMES ROBERT BASKERVILLE (48) of 8 Albert-road, Ford, employed by Mr A. J. Steer, was the subject of an Inquest by Mr J. A. Pearce yesterday. The evidence showed that deceased was engaged on Friday, with other men, cutting a trench 2 ft. 6 in. wide and 5 ft. deep in Wolsey-road, when a side caved in, and brought with it about a ton of earth which had been thrown from the trench to the top. Deceased was partly buried and died at the Royal Albert Hospital from the severe injuries he sustained. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Thursday 29 July 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Dockyard Labourer's Death. - The Devonport Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, held an Inquest at Ker-street Police Station yesterday on WILLIAM JAMES CLEMAS, 66, Dockyard labourer, of Monument-street, Devonport. - MRS S. J. DAVIES said deceased was her father, and resided with her. He went to the Labour Exchange on Monday, and on his return complained of not being well. She advised him to go to bed and on his way upstairs he fell. He stopped in bed the following day and in the afternoon she noticed a change and sent for a doctor, but her father died a few minutes before the doctor's arrival. - Dr McElwaine stated that death was due to valvular disease of the heart, accelerated by the congested state of the left lung. - Verdict, "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Friday 30 July 1920
EXETER - At the Inquest yesterday on SAMUEL SHORT (72) of Clifton-street, Exeter, old-age pensioner and formerly dock labourer, who was found dead in bed on Tuesday morning, a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Friday 30 July 1920
PLYMOUTH - Epileptic's Fatal Fall. After Visiting Plymouth Doctor. - The death of EDGAR THOMAS ROWE, aged 25, of 155 Beaumont-road, was the subject of an Inquest this afternoon by Mr R. B. Johns, the Plymouth Coroner. Deceased, who suffered from epilepsy, went to see Dr Palmer yesterday morning and on his way home was evidently seized with a fit. He fell to the ground, and sustained injuries to his head, causing his death later in the day. - Dr Palmer said that the post-mortem examination showed that deceased fractured his skull and the Coroner entered a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Saturday 31 July 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Child's Death. - An Inquest was held at Devonport yesterday on ALBERT PHILIP HY. TABB, the four-year-old son of MR and MRS W. J. H. TABB, 86 Victory-street, Keyham, who died at the Royal Albert Hospital from burns. - The mother said deceased must have obtained a box of matches from the mantelpiece, for when she returned to the house, after an absence of about five minutes, she discovered that he had been burnt. - Dr M. Crawford, House Surgeon, said that deceased was suffering from severe burns on his back and arms. He remained conscious until Thursday morning, when he died from shock following the burns. The Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, returned a verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 4 August 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Baby's Death. - The Plymouth Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, held an Inquest yesterday concerning the death of the newly-born child of MARY STRACHAN BROWN, of 5 Priory-road, Compton. Mr W. H. Sloman, solicitor, represented the mother, and Chief Supt. Martin was also present. - The Coroner explained that he had summoned a Jury because this might be a very serious case. The evidence would show that a string or cord had been placed round the neck of the child. If the result of that was the child's death, and if it was done intentionally, the Jury would have to return a verdict of wilful murder. They had to be guided by the evidence. - MRS ELIZABETH GIBSON WILSON BROWN, mother of the girl, said her daughter was a shop assistant and 22 years of age. She knew she was in trouble. When her daughter came home on Friday evening she complained of being bilious and went to lie down. Witness gave her some hot milk, and afterwards her daughter said she was all right. Just after nine o'clock she saw something had happened and called her husband to go for a doctor. Her daughter was not strong-minded and had always suffered in her head. - Mr Sloman: Did you hear any noise, or cry? - Witness: No. - Dr C. R. Crowther said a piece of tape had been wound twice round the neck of the child and tied in front in a slightly loose knot. - The Coroner: Was it tight enough to strangle the child? - Witness: Yes; and the child was quite dead, though slightly warm. - Did the mother tell you anything about it? - She did not appear to show any interest in my proceedings and showed no emotion. - Did she seem to be quite capable? - She answered my questions clearly, but was very apathetic and listless. - It may be that before that she did not know what she did? - Yes. Dr Crowther went on to say he made a post-mortem examination. There was congestion of the veins of the brain and traces of haemorrhage under the skull. - The Coroner: Would that be due to strangulation? - It would follow strangulation. I made two tests to discover whether the child had breathed. The result showed that the child had breathed, but not fully. It strongly suggested that the child had only breathed once, or, perhaps, twice. - The Foreman asked whether the child had had a separate existence. - The Coroner said that was the point the Jury had to decide, and after that whether this girl deliberately tied the tape round the child's neck with the intention of doing away with it. - The Foreman: But does the doctor infer that the child might have had a separate existence? - Dr Crowther said he could not say the child had not a separate existence. It was possible the tape might have been tied round the child's neck to hasten delivery. - The Coroner said the Jury had also to consider the state of the girl's mind at the time. - After a brief retirement the Foreman said the Jury had come to the conclusion the child had no separate existence. - The Coroner said he agreed and entered a verdict accordingly of "Stillborn."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 4 August 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Widow's Death. - An Inquest was held at Devonport yesterday on MARY JANE JEFFERY, 66, a widow residing at Ker-street, who died suddenly on Saturday night. - Deceased's daughter said about 1 a.m. there was music, singing and dancing going on below. Deceased jumped out of bed quickly and looked out of the window. She was taken ill and expired before she could drink some water she asked for. - Dr J. Ingram said deceased died from heart failure, due to sudden awakening from sleep and getting out of bed on hearing a noise. - Verdict accordingly.

Western Morning News, Thursday 5 August 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Mr J. A. Pearce, District Coroner, opened an Inquest at Devonport yesterday on THOMAS ANDREW SPURRIER, 47, shipwright, H.M. Dockyard, residing at 10 Herbert-street, who died on Tuesday. Evidence of identification was taken and the Inquest adjourned.

Western Evening Herald, Monday 9 August 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - Plymouth Petty Officer's Suicide. Inquest Today. - The circumstances attending the death of Petty Officer (1st Class) GEORGE ROWE, aged 38 years, of 24 Wolsdon-street, Plymouth, and attached to H.M.S. Lucia, Devonport, were Enquired into by Mr R. Robinson Rodd, County Coroner, at the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, this morning. Mr K. Eyton Peck was present, representing the Admiralty. - The first witness was the deceased's father, MR WILLIAM ROWE, a labourer, of 24 Wolsdon-street, who stated that deceased had been in port about 10 days and when ashore slept at home. He had appeared very depressed and had stated that he had not felt well since he lost his three mess-mates in a boating fatality about six weeks ago. Deceased never threatened to take his life. He left home early on Thursday morning for his ship, and then appeared depressed. - Medical Evidence. - Surg.-Comdr. H. A. Browning, R.N., of H.M.S. Adamant, stated that his attention was drawn to the deceased on Thursday about 3.30 p.m. He complained of headache and low spirits. He answered questions slowly and not always correctly. Witness made a general examination, but found nothing wrong of note. Deceased's teeth were very bad, and witness attributed the headache to that. He ordered deceased to bed. Witness did not consider his mental condition necessitated special instructions to guard against suicide. Witness saw the deceased on Saturday about 9.5 a.m., and found him with his throat cut. Death was due to shock and haemorrhage. - Surg.-Comdr. G. E. Hamilton, R.N., of H.M.S. Lucia, stated that on Friday morning about 9 o'clock he saw deceased in a cot in the sick bay. Witness examined him and found his mentality very slow. Deceased stated that he felt generally unwell, but could not account for it. Witness did not think he was dangerous to himself. His medical history sheet showed that he met with an accident about five years ago, resulting in concussion and epilepsy. - Frederick Staines, a sick-berth steward, of 9 Paul-street, Plymouth, attached to H.M.S. Lucia, was in charge of the deceased on Saturday. About 9 a.m. deceased asked for the morning paper. It was given to him and he went to the lavatory, where he was subsequently found with his throat cut. There was a table knife on the floor, stained with fresh blood. - A verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 10 August 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - Fatal Fall In H.M.S. Lucia. - A fatality on board H.M.S. Lucia was Inquired into by Mr R.R. Rodd yesterday, the deceased being Sto. ARCHIBALD WOOLDRIDGE, aged 28. - The evidence revealed that whilst deceased was on Friday last assisting in filling the upper port bunker of the Lucia with coal, P.O. Luckham sent him to the stokehold to fetch some shovels. Deceased was seen to leave the stokehold, and on his way back he fell into the lower bunker, sustaining injuries to his head, which caused his death later the same day. - It was stated that the way from the stokehold was well known to deceased. The fatality was said to be a pure accident, and due to no negligence or breach of the regulations. - Evidence was given by Surg.-Com. S. Littlejohn and Sto. P.O. S. Davis. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Thursday 12 August 1920
YEALMPTON - At Yealmpton Police Station this afternoon the County Coroner, Mr R. Robinson Rodd, conducted an Inquest on the body of JOHN SHEPHERD, a thatcher, aged 49 years, of Yealmpton, who died on Tuesday. The deceased was at work on a farm at Holbeton when he was taken ill. He was conveyed to Yealmpton, but death took place on the road. - Dr Smith having certified that death was due to heart disease, the Coroner returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Thursday 12 August 1920
TORQUAY - Excessive Drinking. Torquay Widow's Sad Habit That Ended In Death. - The Torquay Coroner, Mr S. Hacker, held an Inquest yesterday on BLANCH MARY BECK, widow, Abbey-road. - Georgina Emma Chubb, Annerley-road, London, said deceased was aged 58 and a widow. She was of independent means, and for some time had lived alone at Abbey-road. At her request witness came to live with her about a month ago. She was unwell and witness stayed with her until her death. She had indulged in excessive drinking for the past thirty years, and was at one time in an Inebriates' Home. She drank anything she could get hold of, but mostly whisky. For about 12 months witness took charge of deceased after the death of her husband, who suffered from religious mania. She improved in her habits during that time. During her illness she insisted on having whisky in excess of the doctor's orders. - Dr G. Young Eales said he had known deceased for 10 years. She suffered from chronic alcoholism. When worried she drank heavily, and up to the time of her death refused to give it up. From a medical point of view witness thought she could not have given it up had she tried, because she had lost all moral control. About a fortnight ago witness told her he would not attend her further because he did not consider it honest to take her money when he could do nothing for her. The cause of death was heart failure, due to chronic alcoholism. - The Coroner: The Inebriates Act, not giving power to have such persons put away, there is no means of dealing with them except through the influence of friends or medical men? - Dr Eales: In some cases it is possible to have them certified insane, but that was not possible in this case. - A verdict in accordance with medical evidence was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 14 August 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Causes Of Cancer. Doctors' Doubts In Case At Devonport. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an adjourned Inquest at Devonport yesterday concerning the death of THOMAS ANDREW SPURRIER, of 10 Herbert-street, Morice Town. The Coroner explained that deceased died on August 3 from sarcoma of the jaw, and it was alleged the disease arose through an injury sustained while deceased was at work at Devonport Dockyard. It would be for the Jury to say whether that was so or no. He asked the Jury to dismiss from their minds any question whether any person or persons might be eligible for compensation, and deal with the case on its merits. He understood there was a conflict of evidence among the medical men as to whether a blow deceased received was the actual cause of death. He had opened the Inquest without a Jury on August 4, but the importance of the case was such that he deemed it necessary a Jury should be summoned. - Previous Good Health. - MRS SPURRIER said her husband was a shipwright, and was 47 years of age. He had always been in apparently good health, and she had never heard of any cancer in his family. Before witness married deceased, three years ago, he complained of pains in his jaw, and after they had been married a week or two he had two teeth extracted. The teeth were quite good, and her husband could not understand why his jaw was so painful. He was advised to see Dr Aldous, who said an operation was necessary. Deceased had five operations in all; but he gradually became worse and died. He also complained of a blow on the same side of the jaw about November 1918. - A Second Blow. - Edward F. Pullen, shipwright, now working in Dublin, said he remembered the accident. It occurred one Sunday night in September or October 19817, on the trawler Tribune. The workmen were fastening a howitzer, and were tightening bolts underneath the deck, a "rat-rail" spanner being used to tighten a nut in a corner. The steam caused the jaws of the spanner to open and slip and it struck deceased on the left side of the jaw. It was a pretty severe blow, but did not knock him senseless. Ten minutes afterwards they went on with the work, and when they finished the accident was reported to Mr Matthews, chargeman, who said he would put it down in his book. Deceased afterwards complained of pains in the jaw, which he said he had never had before the blow. About twelve months later, when working on a United States ship, some coupling fell and struck deceased another severe blow on the same side of the jaw. - In reply to Mr K. Eyton Peck, who represented the Admiralty, witness said he did not see the chargeman make any record of the accidents. - H. C. Matthews, chargeman of shipwrights, said deceased was one of the strongest and hardest men he ever knew before the accident. He remembered deceased saying he had had a smack on the jaw, and said it had caused slight bleeding. Deceased came to work again, but about three weeks later complained of pains in the jaw. From that day he failed, until he had had to be invalided out of the Yard. He was an especially good man at his work, and had no illness before the accident. - Medical Evidence. - Dr G. F. Aldous said he first saw deceased on November 26 1917, when he was suffering from inflammation of the lower side of the left jaw. He had had some teeth out. Witness thought the jaw was looking suspicious and advised a portion of it being excised for microscopial examination. Deceased gave him September 1917 as the date of the accident. Witness had a report, which was serious, and deceased consented to another operation, which was carried out on April 29, 1918. Other slighter operations followed, and when witness last saw deceased in March he was dying. - The Coroner: Do you say death was attributable to the injury received from this blow? - That is a fine point. This condition came on within a couple of months of the crack on the jaw. In the history of cancer and sarcoma it has come on after such an accident, but you cannot prove it. In this case I think it was very probably the exciting cause. That is as far as I can go. - Do I understand there must be something lying dormant that a blow would bring out? - Not necessarily. - Do you think it might have been attributable to the extraction of the teeth? - I do not think so. - Have you known of cases of sarcoma being set up following the extraction of teeth? - No. - The question the Jury want answered is: "Can it be definitely stated the disease from which deceased died was due to the blow he received on this particular day?" - Dr Aldous: "Yes." - Dr T. Young Simpson said he saw deceased on November 6, 1919, and he came to the conclusion that the disease was due to the blow. - Naval Medical Experts. - Surg.-Capt. J. D. Hughes, R.N. (retired), who was Medical Officer of the Dockyard at the time, said that when he first saw deceased on April 17,1918, he had a growth just inside the lower jaw which had the appearance of malignancy. Deceased told him he received a blow on the jaw the previous October, and witness referred the case to a medical board at the R.N. Hospital. The medical board came to the conclusion that there was not sufficient evidence to show that the man was suffering in any way from the injury he received in the Yard, and therefore found the case "not attributable." - The Coroner: Can you say on what grounds? - I was uncertain myself; that was why I wanted a board on it. - If you had had before you the evidence given here today, would that have affected your decision? - No; I do not think so. - At that time you understood there was not sufficient evidence of the blow? - We had no record; we went on the personal statement of the man. - Having heard the evidence this afternoon, do you think it possible now to say that the sarcoma was due to this injury? - Quite possibly it was; quite possibly it was not. I cannot say definitely. - An Even Chance. - Mr Mayburne Pearce (who represented deceased's family): You have here a previously healthy man, would you say "probably"? - No, possibly. - Would you say, in betting phraseology, the chances are that the disease arose from the blow? - I should say it would be about "even money." (Laughter). - Surg.-Com. R. D. Jameson, Devonport Dockyard, said he saw deceased on April 16 last. He could not agree that, after having heard the evidence, it was possible sarcoma might have been set up by the injury. No one had yet found out the cause of cancer. It was possibly growing before the injury. - Mr G. F. C. Robinson said he had been asked by the Admiralty to examine and report upon the man. He agreed that the disease was sarcoma. - The Coroner: Can you say the cause of death was attributable to the injury? - Not definitely. - Could it be said the sarcoma was caused by the blow, or the extraction of the teeth? - I doubt very much if it can. Many cases of the disease arise without any blow, and many cases arise in a perfectly healthy man. It is probability only. - The Verdict. - The Jury retired and on their return into Court, the Foreman (Mr J. Clifford Tozer) said they found that the cause of death was sarcoma of the jaw and that the blow was the exciting cause which led to the sarcoma.

Western Evening Herald, Monday 16 August 1920
PLYMOUTH - Sudden Death At Plymouth. - The death in Old Town-street on Saturday of JOHN HICKS, a Dockyard labourer, aged 48, of 25 Batter-street, Plymouth, occupied the attention of Mr R. B. Johns, the Plymouth Coroner, at his office in Princess-square this morning. - The widow stated that deceased had complained of indigestion. He left home for his work on Saturday, and died on the way. - Dr Cook having certified that deceased had a weak heart, which caused syncope, a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 17 August 1920
THORVERTON - Visitor Drowned. Thorverton Holiday Tragedy. - Mr Gilbert H. Stephens, Deputy Coroner, held an Inquest at Thorverton yesterday on MRS LILY MILFORD, age 36, wife of MR W. L. MILFORD, railway cashier, of Leeds, who was drowned in the Exe on Saturday while on a visit to relatives, MR and MRS F. MILFORD, of Seaton Villa, Thorverton. The husband stated that deceased sometimes complained of feeling giddy. - BERTRAM FRANK MILFORD, age 10, son of MR F. MILFORD, said he and a younger brother went with deceased to the river below the weir. Deceased first slept and then, moving to the riverside, put her feet in the water. She then said she felt giddy and fell into the water head first and screamed. Witness ran for her son, who was in an adjoining field and otherwise gave the alarm. There were no grown-up people about. Other evidence showed that the body was carried downstream and recovered by Mr John Hayes, Stationmaster. Dr O. Clayton Jones and local Constables tried artificial respiration for two hours. A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 18 August 1920
PLYMOUTH - Boating Tragedy. Nobody To Blame For Plymouth Mishap. - The sad boating fatality which occurred in the Cattewater, Plymouth, on Saturday, when JOHN MAURICE WARNE, 19, of Radon-avenue, Plymouth, was drowned whilst sailing with a Wesley Boating Club party, was inquired into yesterday by the Plymouth Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns. - William Shawbridge Phillips, shipwright's apprentice, said he was captain of the boat, which was about 30ft. long, drawing one foot of water and was built to carry 26 persons. They set out from Phoenix Wharf with a party of 14. When they were about 100 yards from Elphinstone Barracks deceased was helping to hoist the sail, and a sudden gust of wind caused the vessel to heel over. Witness ordered the occupants to cross to the higher side of the boat, but with the exception of one lad they all lost their heads and did not comply. Deceased was clinging to a stay above his head, when he slipped and went overboard, causing the boat to over-balance. The occupants, who were tipped into the water, seemed all to have found oars to cling to and were thus able to keep afloat. When other boats came to the rescue deceased was missed. They had had adequate experience in the handling of a boat and everything was quite in order at the time of the accident. - P.C. Rogers, who witnessed the tragedy, said the party appeared perfectly competent. - The Coroner, returning a verdict of "Accidental Death" said it was clear that nobody could be blamed. - The Wesley Boating Club was represented by Mr F. E. Bowden, solicitor and Rev. C. M. Draper, pastor of Ebrington-street Wesleyan Church.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 24 August 1920
PLYMOUTH - Mother's Sad Death. Verdict Of Murder In Plymouth Case. Accused's Affection. - The tragic circumstances surrounding the death last Friday of ELLEN WHITTAKER were narrated to Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, and a Jury at Plymouth yesterday, when a verdict of "Wilful Murder" was brought in against the dead woman's son, FRANCIS THOMAS WHITTAKER, a labourer. The accused was brought before the Magistrates and charged with the crime last Friday, being remanded for a week and he was not present at the Inquest, the Coroner stating that he received a letter from the Governor of the Prison saying he had no desire to attend. The Inquiry aroused considerable morbid interest, and long before the arrival of the Coroner, spectators had gathered in the roadway and stared longingly at the building to which access was denied them. Although they could hear and see nothing of what transpired, their appetite for the sensational appeared to derive food from the spectacle of witnesses entering the Court. - Brother's Evidence. - WILLIAM JAMES WHITTAKER, Zion-street, a leading cook in H.M.S. Vivid, said that the deceased was his mother. She was 56 years of age and a widow. He last saw his brother about 8 p.m. on Thursday, when he seemed to be quite all right, although his manner during the day had not been that of an ordinary person. He had been a little bit strange, and kept on saying that his hands were cold, and that his heart was stopped. - The Coroner: Had he been peculiar since his birth? - Witness: Yes; he was a very funny kind of fellow right from birth and my mother had a lot of trouble with him. - He had never been put away at all? - No. - What were the relations between him and his mother? - He was always very fond of his mother. In fact, he loved her. - Witness stated that at 11.30 p.m. on August 13 he heard his brother go downstairs, and subsequently he was told by a Policeman that he was at the Police Station. Apparently he had walked there with only his boots, trousers and shirt on. He went to the Police Station and saw his brother sitting before a gas stove. He said he did not know what was the matter; he wanted to go into a home. He refused to go home with witness, saying he did not want to because he got frightened and could not sleep, and eventually it was agreed that he should stay where he was for the night, and that his mother should be asked to call round for him in the morning. Witness returned home, being awakened at about 3.30 in the morning by a knock at his bedroom door. He heard the accused saying "Go downstairs and tell the Policeman I am here. I am all right now." Witness did so and shut the door. - Affection For Mother. - On Thursday, after he had been before the Magistrates on a charge of attempted suicide, he was met by the witness, and seemed all right then. Later in the day, however, he kept standing up and saying, "I don't think I am right. There is something the matter with me. I feel as though there is no other man in the world like me," and he made witness put his hand on his chest to feel if his heart had stopped. On another occasion he said to the deceased, "Well, if ever a mother has earned a place in heaven it is you," and he rushed over and kissed her hand. - Events Of The Night. - Evidence was then given by Mr Percy Osmond Davis, of 22 Buckwell-street, in whose house the tragedy took place. He stated that it was in consequence of his promise to give the accused work that he was discharged when brought up for attempted suicide, and he seemed normal on that day. He accompanied witness to the Palace Theatre the same evening, and on returning they found the deceased in the house. Accused said he would like to spend the night there, and arrangements were accordingly made for him to do so. About two o'clock on the following morning, after he had finished some work upon which he was engaged in the shop, witness encountered the accused on the stairs. He said he was looking for the lavatory and after witness had seen him back to bed, he thought of fetching his razor from the bathroom, but could not find it. Accused had been using it previously, but when asked if he had it, said he had left it in the bathroom. Mr Davis was unable to find it there, and went back to the accused's room, searching the room and his clothing, but without success. He then went to bed, and slept until five, when he heard the sound of a fall. - Gruesome Scene. - "I immediately jumped out of bed and rushed to the top of the house, where the sound came from," he said. "There I saw his mother lying on the floor in a pool of blood. I asked the accused what he had done, but he made no answer." - The Coroner: What was he doing? - Witness: Standing looking at his mother. I ordered him to his bedroom and then telephoned for a doctor and the Police, returning to the top of the house armed with a stick. Then the Police arrived and took charge of the prisoner. - He added that he found downstairs that the gas had been lit and tea made, so that he assumed MRS WHITTAKER had taken her son some tea, and then he had killed her. - The Coroner: At any rate, when you saw them together they were perfectly friendly? - Witness: Oh, yes. - Further questioned, witness said that the deceased was sleeping in the next room to him, the accused's room being overhead. The body was partly on the landing and partly in the accused's room, and the inside of the room was full of blood. - A Juryman asked if the witness was suspicious of the accused, and therefore looked to his razor? - Witness: Oh, no. I had let him use it previously. - Was there anything about his conduct to make you think you would have to look after him? - Nothing at all. If I had thought that, I should not have let him shave. - P.S. Short gave evidence to the effect that he was called to the house shortly before 5.30 on Friday morning and found the body lying face downwards in a pool of blood. Deceased was dressed in a blouse and skirt, without boots. Entering the room, he saw the accused standing behind the door with nothing but his shirt on, while near the window there was an open, blood-stained razor. The room was bespattered with blood, as if there had been a struggle, and there was a broken cup in the room with a spoon lying close to it. - "The Devil Got Hold Of Me." - Chief Superintendent A. W. Martin said the accused made no reply when first charged, but when charged at the Police Station, he replied: "Guilty. The devil got hold of me, and made me do it. I could not help myself. He frightened me." Two portions of the razor blade were removed from the spinal column of deceased by the doctor, and the body was afterwards removed to the Mortuary. - Medical evidence was given by Dr A. Vernon Ledger, of Albany-place, Plymouth, who said the deceased had a very extensive wound in the neck, severing the blood vessels and windpipe right down to the spinal column. The nature of the injuries certainly indicated that very considerable force had been used, and they would have caused almost instantaneous death. - In answer to a Juryman, the doctor said he did not think the wound could have been self-inflicted, because there was too much violence attached to it. - This concluded the evidence and the Jury, without any deliberation, arrived at the verdict stated.

Western Evening Herald, Tuesday 24 August 1920
PLYMOUTH - The circumstances touching the death of REBECCA CATHERINE KINSMAN, aged 93 years, of 3 St George's-terrace, Plymouth, were Inquired into by the Plymouth Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, at his office in Princess-square, this morning. - MRS A. M. K. LEES, wife of DAVID H. LEES, of the same address, said deceased was her great-aunt, and the widow of the late JOHN GUYSE KINSMAN of independent means. Deceased was ill about two hours before she died on Saturday. - Dr R. H. Wagner having stated that death was due to senile decay, a verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Friday 27 August 1920
WHITCHURCH - Death In The Hayfield. Inquest At Whitchurch This Afternoon. - SAMUEL MAUNDER, farmer, aged 66, of Shortlands Farm, Whitchurch, was pitching hay at his farm yesterday when he died suddenly. - At the Inquest conducted at the farm by the County Coroner, Mr R. R. Rodd today, the widow, JANE MAUNDER, stated that she took him his dinner about 1.40, when he complained of giddiness and laid down. - Witness lifted his head and shortly afterwards he expired. He had never had a serious illness, but had always been a hard workman. - Mr J. Leslie Watt, of Tavistock, who made a post-mortem examination, found that death was due to syncope, caused by fatty degeneration of the heart. - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Saturday 28 August 1920
PLYMSTOCK - Air Craftsman's Death. Inquest At Batten. - Mr Robinson Rodd, County Coroner, held an Inquiry this morning at the Cattewater Seaplane Station, into the death of WILLIAM ANGUS ABLE, a native of co. Kildare, Ireland, a second air craftsman, R.A.F., which took place on Thursday morning. - Lieut. Walter Morgan Smith, R.A.F., gave evidence of identification. - Arthur Webber, hospital orderly, said that on Wednesday evening the deceased complained of feeling unwell, and asked witness to take his place. Deceased was sick during the evening and went to bed. Witness did not see him again until the following morning, when he was found dead. - Flight Lieut. and Dr Henry Bertram Greene, of the R.A.F. medical service, said that when called by the medical orderly he went to the ward and found that the man was dead. Witness had held a post-mortem and found that death was due to apoplexy. There was haemorrhage of the brain, and muscular enlargement of the heart. Deceased had enlisted in March as an A1 man, and had only recently complained of headaches, for which he had been treated. - The Coroner found that death was due to Natural Causes.

Western Evening Herald, Monday 30 August 1920
PLYMOUTH - Street Accidents. Comments Of Plymouth Coroner And Doctor. A Child's Death. - "You people down in these congested streets help to bring these accidents about. The amount of traffic in that neighbourhood is considerable, and you are simply asking for trouble by allowing a child of two years to play in King-street unattended." - These observations were made by Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, at an Inquest at the Homeopathic Hospital, Plymouth, this morning on the body of JOHN SHEPHERD, the two-year-old child of MR and MRS J. SHEPHERD, of 10 Henry-street, Plymouth, who was instantaneously killed in King-street on Friday by a motor lorry. - The evidence of the father showed that the boy was playing in the street while the parents were home. Another boy was pulling their son's car, and witness's wife shouted from the window, and after that incident the child must have wandered out through the lane. - Mrs M. E. Hopkins, of 156 King-street, who saw the accident, said the child left the corner of the road to cross to the other side. The lorry then came along, and the child seemed to stop the car. She considered that it was a pure accident, for the lorry was not going at an excessive speed. Witness immediately telephoned for the ambulance. - The Driver's Evidence. - The driver of the car, Arnold Jope, of St. Dominic, Cornwall, said he was driving a loaded lorry, and the first sight he had of the child was in front of the wheel. Owing to the considerable traffic he was driving slowly, and sounded the horn continuously. Witness applied both hand and foot brakes, shut off the engine, and stopped within a short distance. - Evidence was also given by Fred Tucker, a dock labourer. - Dr M. D. Kelly said he saw the child about six o'clock. The right side of the chest was completely crushed and there were also cuts about the head. Death must have been instantaneous. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Accidental Death," and exonerated the driver of the lorry from blame. - Dr Kelly commented on the number of accidents taking place lately. In two days last week he witnessed five and in this connection he would like to mention the bad behaviour of "C.K." cars in the streets, which were driven by men in khaki.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 7 September 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Died Whilst Courting. Remarkable Incident At Pennycross. - The sudden death of a young Plymouth man in a field at Pennycross when about to be approached by a Police Constable with regard to trespassing was investigated by the Devonport Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, yesterday. - According to Reginald W. Bovey, a tram driver of Waterloo-street, Plymouth, the deceased, FRANCIS HENRY BRYANT FORD, aged 19, butcher's assistant, son of WILLIAM J. H. FORD, baker and confectioner, of York-street, Plymouth, and he went for a walk to Pennycross on Saturday evening with two young ladies, and the two couples sat down in a field at some 50 yards' distance from one another. A Policeman entered the field and told Bovey he was trespassing, and the young lady walked across to the other couple and told them the Policeman was there. The couple arose, but FORD fell on his knees again, remarking that he was faint. - P.C. Steed said that whilst on duty at Ham-lane at 9.15 p.m. he looked over a gate and saw a man lying on his back. He went into the field and found there was a girl with him, and informed them they were trespassing. The man gave his name and address when asked, but the young lady declined. The girl then told witness that there were two of their friends further on, and walked in their direction, Bovey and witness following her. He saw the couple get up and deceased sink on his hands and knees, and heard him say, "I shall faint" twice. They all thought he was doing it for a lark, but in a minute or so realised that his condition was serious, and rendered first aid. Then he was removed to a cottage, artificial respiration tried and Dr Vosper sent for, the doctor pronouncing life extinct on his arrival. - The father said his son was subject to fainting fits, and the doctor attributed death to an enlarged thymus gland, which weighed ¼ oz., accelerated by fright. In reply to MR FORD, Dr Sydney Vosper explained that the gland was large in children and gradually disappeared. It should have been practically non-existent in a man of deceased's age. - The Coroner, recording a verdict of "Natural Causes," said the thymus gland was a frequent cause of sudden death occurring after the slightest fright. Addressing the father, who had questioned the Constable, Mr Pearce and P.C. Steed, whom he knew well, had carried out his duties in a most courteous and proper way. There was not the slightest suggestion that the young people's conduct was anything but correct.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 8 September 1920
PLYMOUTH - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned at an Inquest conducted by Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital this morning on WILLIAM JOHN MURLEY, 27 Mainstone-avenue, Plymouth, an employee of Messrs. Willoughby, who died on the 7th inst. at the Institution.

Western Morning News, Friday 10 September 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Artificer's Suicide. Worry Over An Imaginary Illness. - The death of ALBERT EDWARD LINNINGTON, age 33, chief engine-room artificer, R.N., H.M.S. Lucia, depot ship of the Second Submarine Flotilla, whose body was found in the Hamoaze on Monday, was Inquired into at Devonport Dockyard yesterday by Mr J. A. Pearce. The Admiralty was represented by Mr K. Eyton Peck. - THOMAS E. LINNINGTON, brother, 39 Hollington-road, East Ham, said deceased's wife and child resided at 33 Inglis-road, Southsea. When he saw him last December deceased complained of stomach trouble. During the war he served in the Dardanelles. Deceased's wife had received a letter from him, but witness did not know what it contained. Witness did not see the letter, but it was very short and he did not believe the inference could be drawn from it that he intended taking his life. - Sto. Percy Godden, H.M.S. Lucia, said he was in his hammock aboard the ship at 5 a.m. on Monday when deceased awoke him and asked for a cigarette. Witness gave him one and a match and then deceased left the mess and went to the upper deck, so far as witness knew. Deceased then seemed very worried. He had complained about his stomach, and told witness there was something radically wrong with him, and he could not make out what it was. Deceased often walked about the ship at night. Paul Hedley, E.R.A., said he had heard deceased complain of his stomach. On Monday witness found the following note in deceased's locker: "God forgive me. I cannot stand it longer. God bless my wife and baby, and do not worry for me. I have been led on to make a mistake in life. God forgive me." Witness believed the message was in deceased's handwriting. - Wm. Coyte, waterman, gave evidence of finding the body. - Surg.-Com. G. L. Buckeridge, of the Impregnable, attributed death to drowning; and Surg.-Com. H. S. Browning, of the Adamant, said deceased complained to him on Sunday of being unwell and seemed very worried. Witness examined him and found no sign of the complaints deceased mentioned. He advised a course of treatment and told deceased to see him again the following day. - Lieut. G. E. Colpoys, commanding submarine L 17, said there was nothing in connection with deceased's duties to give him cause for worry. His character had been "very good" throughout his service. - The Coroner said there seemed no doubt that deceased was worried about his health, and had decided to take his life. He recorded a verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind," and expressed sympathy with the widow and relatives. Deceased was very popular among his shipmates.

Western Morning News, Saturday 11 September 1920
TOTTENHAM, LONDON - Police Tragedy. Suicide Follows Removal From Devonport. - A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was recorded at an Inquest at Tottenham yesterday on POLICE-SERGT. JOHN HENRY STINGTHORP, aged 41, who on Tuesday was found dead in his cubicle with his throat cut. It was stated that the deceased had left behind him a letter addressed to his wife, who lives with her three children at Devonport. In the letter STINGTHORP said that his removal from Devonport to the London Police was a "terrible mistake," and he added, "There is no hope of getting back, and I cannot be happy without you." It was further stated that STINGTHORP had been on the sick list for three weeks suffering from nervous debility.

Western Evening Herald, Saturday 11 September 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Child's Death. Syncope Following Mal-Assimilation Of Food. - The circumstances attending the death of ANNIE THELMA MARTIN, the infant daughter of JAMES MARTIN, which took place at 14a. Fore-street on Friday, were Inquired into by the Devonport Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, this morning. - The mother said her husband had been employed in the Dockyard as a rivetter, but was now out of work. The deceased child was born on the 11th July last. It was 8lbs. at birth. At first she fed it from the breast, but recently on Glaxo. She took it to the infant Welfare Centre, St Aubyn-street, on Tuesday last. - The Coroner: You must have seen the child fast declining before Tuesday last? - The child at birth was 8lbs. in weight and now it ought to be 10lbs. - Dr Nixon Morris: It is now 5lbs. - The Mother: I did not notice anything; I thought it was thriving very well. - Medical Evidence. - Dr Morris told the Coroner that the child was very emaciated; it was devoid of all fat. Its various organs were quite healthy, no disease being present. Death was due to syncope following mal-assimilation of food. - The Coroner: Were there any signs of neglect? - Dr Morris: The child was clean and there were no signs of knocks or bruises. It was woefully thin. - The Coroner: Don't you think there ought to have been attention earlier? - The Infant Welfare Centre is for that purpose? - Dr Morris: Yes, they can get the necessary attention for nothing. - It was subsequently stated by the Coroner that the weight of the child when it was taken to the Infant Welfare Centre was 8lb. 4oz. with its clothes on. - The Coroner recorded a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 14 September 1920
DARTMOUTH - Death Of A Jutland Hero. - Mr Arthur Davson held an Inquest at Dartmouth yesterday on RICHARD JOHNS, leading stoker, R.N., aged 37, a married man, of the Parade, Plymouth. He served in H.M.S. Lion during the Battle of Jutland. - Frederick Milford, stoker, R.N., said he went on duty at the mess-room at the R.N. Barracks on Sunday morning and found JOHNS dead on the floor, fully dressed excepting his boots and cap, which were placed on one side. - Northy Pappin, stoker, R.N., said he slept at the Barracks on Saturday night and heard nothing. On awaking in the morning he saw the dead body of JOHNS. - Harry Davis, stoker, R.N., said at 10 p.m. on Saturday he passed JOHNS by the Floating Bridge. He said "Good night," and seemed all right. - Gilbert F. Sims, Surg.-com., R.N., attributed death to a broken neck. There was a slight abrasion on the back of the head and it was possible JOHNS fell forward with his head under him. - The Coroner found that death was Accidental.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 15 September 1920
OKEHAMPTON - Inquest On Okehampton Railway Victim. - At Okehampton last evening Mr H. C. Brown held an Inquest on HAROLD ERNEST CORNISH, aged 18, labourer, in the employment of the London and South-Western Railway Company, who was killed on the railway near Okehampton on Monday. Inspector Trump was present on behalf of the railway company and Mr G. W. Brown, of Exeter, represented the Workers' Union. - William Gardiner, engine driver, of Cattedown-road, Plymouth, said that on Monday morning he was driving the passenger train due at Okehampton from Plymouth at 7.42. About a quarter of a mile out of Okehampton he saw a man on the line walking towards the train. He was about 30 yards away when witness first saw him. A ballast train was coming along on the down line and deceased was looking at it. Witness estimated the speed of his train at between 30 and 40 miles an hour. He blew his whistle and applied the brakes, but deceased took no notice whatever, and he could not pull up in time. He was so close to Okehampton Station that he ran the train on there and reported what had occurred. - Arthur Jones, sub-inspector of the permanent way, said he found deceased's body lying across the rails, badly mangled. Death must have been instantaneous. There is a "cess," or footpath, on the right-hand side of the rails all the way from Okehampton Station to Meldon, and the quarrymen were expected to use this path. - The Coroner recorded a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Evening Herald, Thursday 16 September 1920
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Leap At Plymouth. Infirmary Patient's Death. - The circumstances of the death of HENRY CASLEY, a carpenter, aged 49, a patient at the Workhouse Infirmary, were Inquired into by the Plymouth Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, at the Workhouse today. - The first witness, Dorothy Stallard, sister in charge at the Infirmary, stated that she last saw the deceased alive yesterday about noon, when he was in bed. He then seemed to be as usual. Later she was informed that one of her patients was downstairs with his head bleeding. She went down and found the deceased lying on the green under the lavatory window. He had gone to the lavatory and had apparently jumped out of the window. His dressing gown was found behind the lavatory door. Deceased was bleeding from the head and was unconscious. He died five minutes after her arrival, before the doctor arrived. Deceased had been in the Infirmary since August 20, but had never given witness any trouble. - Henry Harris, a member of the Workhouse staff, spoke of finding the deceased under the window just before Sister Stallard arrived. The window was about 30 feet from the ground. - Dr Ward having made a post-mortem examination, stated that death was due to a fracture of the spine in the neck. Death was almost instantaneous. Deceased had been undergoing treatment for a severe form of malaria, which would probably cause acute depression. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Suicide whilst Temporarily Insane."

Western Evening Herald, Monday 20 September 1920
PLYMOUTH - Woman's Hair Ablaze. A Plymouth Fatality. - Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, held an Inquest this morning at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, regarding the circumstances attending the death of AGNES CLARISSA GALSWORTHY, aged 50, wife of JOHN EDWIN GALSWORTHY, mason's labourer, of 11 Chudleigh-road, Plymouth. - ELIZABETH JANE GALSWORTHY, daughter of deceased, said that on Friday afternoon, while working in her bedroom, she heard cries from her mother, and came down to find her in flames. Deceased had been combing her hair before the fire, and apparently the "combings" had ignited. Witness tried to extinguish the flames, and in doing so received severe burns. She sent for medical aid. - Dr T. B. McKee, resident House Surgeon of the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, said that deceased was admitted on Friday, suffering from severe burns and shock and expired the following day. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 22 September 1920
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Fall At Plymouth. - Plymouth Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, yesterday returned a verdict of "Accidental Death" at an Inquest on GEORGE B. VICKERY, retired chief boatswain, R.N. - ERNEST W. VICKERY, Edith-avenue, said his father, 78 years of age, on Sunday fell, and later complained of feeling unwell. - Dr A. B. Blades said on being called he found MR VICKERY was practically unconscious. His left side was totally paralysed. Death was due to a clot of blood caused by a fracture of the left frontal bone of the skull, undoubtedly the result of the fall.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 22 September 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - Born In A Tent. - Mr R. R. Rodd, Coroner, returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" at yesterday's Inquest on the 24-hour-old illegitimate child, one of twins, of ELIZA COOPER, which was born and died in a tent on the fairground, Waterloo-street, Stonehouse, the place of abode of the mother. - Dr T. Noy Leah said the child died as the result of debility at birth.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 22 September 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Child's Death. - Mr R. B. Johns, County Borough Coroner, held an Inquest this morning on the body of DORIS MAYFLOWER COOPER, the two-weeks'-old daughter of THOMAS COOPER, a horse-driver, living at 24 High-street, Plymouth. - Dr Andrew Murray said the body was well nourished. The cause of death was bronchial pneumonia. - The Coroner found that death was due to Natural Causes.

Western Morning News, Thursday 23 September 1920
RACKENFORD - ERNEST BOUNDY, 48, rural postman, of Rackenford, was found on Monday lying on his back by the roadside quite dead. At the Inquest Dr Price, of Witheridge, said death was due to haemorrhage of the brain.

Western Morning News, Saturday 25 September 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Tragedy. Accused's Relations With Girl. Story At Inquest. Rebuke For Morbid Curiosity. - The undated letter, signed "Bubbles," found on Lance-Corpl. CYRIL VICTOR TENNYSON SAUNDERS, on his arrest on a charge of murdering his 17-year-old cousin, DOROTHY MAY SAUNDERS, at 30 Percy Terrace, Plymouth, on Thursday afternoon, when read at the Inquest yesterday, threw a fresh light on the relationship existing between the murdered girl and the soldier, against whom the Coroner's Jury, without retiring, returned a verdict of "Wilful Murder." The letter was addressed from 30 Percy-terrace, Lipson Vale, Plymouth, and read:- "Dearest CYRIL, - It's no good, CYRIL, I must tell you. I know I'll just about break your heart, but I don't feel at all now as though I could get married. You have spoilt all my trust in you, dear. Don't think, CYRIL, there's any other boy, for there isn't. My heart will always be turning to you, but it is no good when you have lost all trust in me. - If it is God's will that I should have a baby I'll let you know, but I must bear the grunt (brunt?) myself. Don't do anything rash, CYRIL. Look after yourself and please answer this - Your Bubbles. x x." - The letter, which was read when the murdered girl's cousin by marriage, MRS ELIZABETH MARY LAWRENCE, asked by the Coroner if she knew if misconduct had taken place between the deceased and the prisoner, replied hesitatingly, "Yes!" SAUNDERS, who was present, sitting between two Policemen, abandoned a listless attitude during the reading of the letter and said, "I should like to make a statement regarding it." - "You will have to make it on oath, and I most strongly urge you not to say anything," the Coroner advised him. SAUNDERS, who had risen to his feet, bowed his acquiescence and sat down, remarking, "Very well; I will do as you suggest." - Threatened Suicide. - MRS LAWRENCE told the Coroner that DOROTHY had been with her, assisting in the business, between two and three months. When SAUNDERS came to her house on Wednesday afternoon, he greeted DOROTHY with, "Hello, Bubbles!", the latter replying "Hello, CYRIL!" and adding, "It's no use your coming down here. I am still of the same mind." Following a conversation between the two privately, witness was called by DOROTHY from the shop and told by her that SAUNDERS was threatening to commit suicide. Shortly afterwards he went out. Witness followed him and told him not to be silly, "for his mother's sake, if not for Bubbles." - The Coroner: Did you really think he was going to commit suicide? - Witness: I don't know, I am sure. DOROTHY told me he said he was going to look for a place to stay, and added, "But he isn't; he's going to commit suicide. He has left his watch behind." He had taken his watch off and left it on the table, witness explained. - But you did not really think he was going to commit suicide? - I did not know what I really was doing, exactly. He was quite calm. I ran after him and asked him if he was going to commit suicide, and he replied, "I might throw myself across the line." - Continuing, witness said she eventually persuaded him to come back for tea with her. "After tea I went to dress and while dressing DOROTHY came to me and said, 'CYRIL wants me to go out with him, but I am afraid of him; for this afternoon he told me he was going to commit suicide and strangle me.' She also told me he said to her, 'If I can't have you, no one else shall.'" Together, however, they went out, saying they were going to the pictures. About 10 o'clock they returned. "He was in a jolly mood and played the piano and sang. When he kissed DOROTHY good-night, he said to her, 'I am going to turn the gas on.' I turned it off at the main, for I felt uneasy." - The Coroner: Did you really think he was sincerely bent upon doing this? Don't you think the obvious thing to have done was to have communicated with the Police? - Witness: DOROTHY suggested calling the Police, but I said, "Wouldn't it be awful for his mother. Let us try to get him off to the camp again quietly." She then said, "I wonder if, when he finds the gas off, he will do anything else to himself?" CYRIL then came into the room, and DOROTHY promised him to consider the matter and give him his answer in the morning, remarking, when he had gone, "I think it's all right now." - Swore Not To Harm Her. - That night witness did not undress. She was filled with fear. After breakfast next morning SAUNDERS went out about 11 o'clock. When he had gone DOROTHY said she thought she had better get out of his way. Witness continued: She feared for what might happen to me, and went out to the fields about 12.30. About one o'clock he came back and asked where Bubbles was. I said, "I can't tell you; she is gone." "I must see her to say good-bye, as I am catching the train back to camp," he replied. At last I said, "Will you swear on your oath that if I bring DOROTHY in, you will go straight back to camp, and that you won't hurt her or hurt yourself?" "I swear on my oath," he replied, "that I will not touch her or myself either, and I will go straight back to camp." We then shook hands and I went out and fetched DOROTHY back. - Coming across the fields witness and the murdered girl arranged that the latter should serve in the shop, so as to avoid SAUNDERS as much as possible. SAUNDERS followed heron the first occasion she went into the shop. Both conversed a little while in undertones and then witness heard DOROTHY cry, "Betty! Betty" and on rushing to the door saw blood gushing from her mouth. "I was astounded. Then he laid her softly on the floor and turned round and pointed the knife at me. I snatched up the scales scoop and threw it at him and fled back through the kitchen on to the street, shouting, 'Murder! Murder! Help!' but no one came." - At this stage the Chief Constable handed in the letter quoted above, and witness identified the handwriting. - The Coroner: I am afraid I must ask you this question, though I am very sorry - had the two been living together at any time? - Witness: She had been staying with his mother. - Had any misconduct taken place? - Yes. - You knew she was in trouble by him? - No, she was not. She found out it was all right, although previously she had her fears. Witness added that she felt certain the letter was written long before the date of the postmark, September 20, on the envelope. - Dr S. Wolferstan said there were four wounds in the girl's breast, such as would be inflicted by the knife produced. In one case the knife had passed completely through the lung. It had also passed close to the heart without injuring it and had split the pulmonary vein to the extent of the width of the knife. Death was due to haemorrhage and would probably ensue in a very few minutes after the injuries had been inflicted. - Accused's Nonchalance. - A dramatic story of the events which followed immediately after the tragedy was related by Pte. J. J. Boote, R.M.L.I., who told how, on hearing the girl's screams, he rushed across the street to the shop where he saw her lying, bleeding terribly from the nose and mouth. Her clothes were literally saturated with blood. "During the next two minutes all was excitement," the witness declared. "The first thing I did was to summon the ambulance and I returned to the shop immediately. There was a woman standing near the door, and I asked her if she could help me in rendering aid to the poor girl, who was on the point of expiring. It was then that I realised SAUNDERS was standing behind me and he coolly remarked: 'You can't do anything for her, as I have stabbed her in the heart.' He indicated a blood-stained dagger on the counter. I thought I had better take possession of the weapon for the sake of safety and when the ambulance arrived I took it across to my own house. The Police had been telephoned for and I suggested to prisoner that he had better come into my house, as a crowd of people were congregating near the scene. He readily complied with my request and sat down in an armchair in my front parlour, calmly taking out a 'fag' and offering me one. We sat smoking together, and he told me he had deserted from his regiment, taking a good deal of money with him. Just afterwards the Police arrived and took him into custody." - The Coroner: Did SAUNDERS appear as if he had been drinking?" - Witness: He remarked to me that he had had a couple of drinks that morning. - But he wasn't in any way intoxicated? - Oh, no. His face was a bit flushed, that's all. - "This is the knife I did it with," prisoner was alleged to have said to Deputy Chief Constable A. W. Martin, who took him into custody. According to Mr Martin's evidence, SAUNDERS was dressed in khaki breeches and coat, which were stained with large splashes of blood. His hands were also smeared with blood and holding them up, he exclaimed: "That blood came from the girl!" There were no signs of a struggle in the shop, though the scoop of the scales was lying on the floor. In prisoner's possession were a blood-stained handkerchief and the undated letter, which had been read to the Jury. - The Verdict. - In summing up, the Coroner, describing it as "a miserable case," drew attention to the concise and well-given evidence of MRS LAWRENCE, for whom it must undoubtedly have been a trying ordeal. - The Jury, without retiring, returned a verdict of "Wilful Murder." - The Coroner, addressing SAUNDERS, said: "You stand convicted by this Jury with the Wilful Murder of DOROTHY MAY SAUNDERS." - The prisoner made a slight inclination of the head, turned, and left the Court in company of two Policemen. - Addressing Pte. Boote, the Coroner said he wished to remark on the deep debt of gratitude that was owed to him for his promptitude and presence of mind. If the accused had been a very rash sort of man the tragedy might not have ended with one victim. - The Chief Constable concurred, saying the Police fully appreciated what Pte. Boote had done. - Accused In Court. - For more than an hour before the Police Court opened yesterday morning, long queues of people waited outside anxious to gain admission. Mrs Louie Simpson was one of the Magistrates and thus has probably the distinction of being the first woman in England to sit on the Bench during the hearing of a charge of murder. There was a great stir in the crowded Court when prisoner entered the dock between two Police Officers. People stood up in their seats and there was a general craning of necks in the public gallery. SAUNDERS was smartly attired in a grey tweed suit and black coat with velvet collar. He wore a striped soft collar and a blue tie. - The Chief Constable said he proposed only to call evidence of arrest at this stage. He mentioned that the murdered girl was an orphan, and that prisoner was a native of Camberley, Surrey. - A sensation was caused when the weapon with which the crime is alleged to have been committed was produced. A sharp-pointed dagger, the long blade of which was stained all over with dried blood, was held up by the Chief Constable, who said it was the trench-knife with which SAUNDERS was alleged to have inflicted four wounds in the girl's breast, two of which penetrated completely to the lungs. The victim lost a large amount of blood, the knife passing in the region of her heart and internal haemorrhage caused her death. - Had A Couple Of Drinks. - Deputy Chief Constable Martin gave evidence of arresting SAUNDERS, who had been detained near the scene of the crime by P.C. Quantick and a Marine. "I have nothing to say. I had a couple of drinks this morning, and by telling you that it may help me a little," was his reply to the charge. - Throughout the proceedings, which lasted for only a short time, SAUNDERS appeared to evince very little interest in what was transpiring. He repeatedly glanced carelessly around him and when remanded until next Friday by the Magistrates, disappeared from the gaze of the eager crowd without a word.

Western Evening Herald. Monday 27 September 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Labourer's Death. Died At His Work. - An Inquest was held this afternoon by Mr R. B. Johns, touching the death of SAMUEL CHARLES GIBBS of 6 Summerland-place, a mason's labourer. - The daughter of deceased gave evidence that he had never complained of illness and George Challis who was working with deceased on Friday last, on the Beaumont-road housing scheme, said that deceased could not carry another hod to the top, as he felt unwell. He had complained of indigestion and witness told him to go to another part of the houses which was not so high. Deceased suddenly collapsed and witness found he was dead. The men on the works rubbed salt into his hands and tried to give him water, but their efforts were useless. - Dr Pratt's post mortem examination showed that death was due to heart failure and a verdict of Natural Causes was entered. - Mr Mayburne Pearce watched the case on behalf of Messrs. A. N. Coles, deceased's employers.

Western Evening Herald, Tuesday 28 September 1920
PLYMOUTH - The sudden death on Sunday of THOMAS VARCOE, a retired surveyor of the Royal Lifeboat Institution, aged 67, of 7 Reservoir-road, Hartley, formed the subject of an Inquiry by the Plymouth Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, at his office this morning. - Dr Lindsay stated that death was due to sudden heart failure, and the Coroner returned a verdict of "Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 28 September 1920
PLYMOUTH - "Death from Natural Causes" was the verdict at an Inquest yesterday on GEORGE JAMES CLARKE, 53, a naval pension of 36 George-street, Devonport, who died suddenly while working.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 28 September 1920
KINGSBRIDGE - West Charleton Fatality. - At Kingsbridge yesterday an Inquest was held on WILLIAM JEFFERY, aged 84, living at West Charleton. A fortnight ago a road was being dug up for the laying of a water pipe. A steam wagon, owned and driven by Mr L. J. Ferris, Stokefleming, passed over the portion of trench that had been filled in, and the rear part slightly swerving struck a stone pillar leading into the cottage where JEFFERY lived. A portion of the pillar fell on JEFFERY, who received a severe fracture to his left leg and died in the Union Infirmary last Friday. Verdict, "Accidental Death."

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 29 September 1920
HOLBETON - Drowned At Mothecombe. Boy's Attempt To Rescue Little Sister. - How a boy of eleven years saw his eight-year-old sister drowned was described at an Inquest held by Mr R. Robinson Rodd, County Coroner, at Mothecombe, on the body of OLIVE VIOLET BOWHAY, daughter of CHARLES FREDERICK BOWHAY, a farm labourer, of the Cottage, Mothecombe. - In his evidence the boy, FRANK CHARLES HENRY BOWHAY, stated that on Sunday the deceased and himself left home about 9 a.m. for a walk. They went down on the rocks at Mothecombe and whilst they were fishing the deceased left witness to go to the top of the rocks. On returning she slipped and fell into the pool. The distance she fell was about six feet and the depth of the water eleven feet. Witness jumped in and got her to the rocks, but he was much exhausted. She had been in the water about twenty minutes and was almost dead. He then went for assistance. They had been to the same place before. - Albert Edward Baker, a timber feller, of Besson, Stokeham, spoke of responding to the boy's appeal for help. On arrival he found the girl dead. - Dr E. H. B. Fox, of Yealmpton, stated that he had made a superficial examination of the body and in view of that and the evidence of the boy he was satisfied that death was due to drowning. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 29 September 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Street Fatality. Inquest On Woman Knocked Down By Motor Car. - The story of the street fatality near Derry's Clock on Monday night, when a woman was knocked down by a motor-car in rushing for a tram was told to Mr R. B. Johns, the Borough Coroner, at an Inquest held at the Homeopathic Hospital, Plymouth, this afternoon on the body of MISS EDITH LILIAN LAWRY, aged 58, of 3 Ford Park-lane, Plymouth. - Mr Eric Ward appeared for the driver. According to the evidence of MARY ROBERTS, the sister of the deceased, with whom she resided, MISS LAWRY was slightly deaf. - Dr Wilmot said that when the woman was admitted to the Hospital on Monday night she was suffering from a laceration of the left ear and her nose was bleeding. There were no fractures but the injuries were quite sufficient to cause death, which occurred shortly after she was admitted. - Driver's Evidence. - William Thomas Bartlett, of 56 York-road, Bristol, the driver of the car, said that when he drove through George-street about 10.15 on Monday night there were a lot of people about. He blew his horn and the people in the road made way for him. Just after passing Derry's Clock the woman dashed off the pavement as though she was trying to catch a tram and went right in front of the car. She hesitated for a moment and was struck by the left front wheel, which knocked her down and passed over her. He had just applied his brakes and the body was picked up from underneath the car. His speed he estimated at between 10 and 12 miles per hour. - Mr Ward: Was there anything you could have done to have prevented knocking her down? - Witness: If I had turned I would have run into other people. - George Hawkins, 43 Torrington-place, Plymouth, confirmed the story of the accident and said the car was being carefully driven. The woman appeared to run diagonally across the road. If she had kept a straight course she would probably have got clear. - A Pure Accident. - The Coroner said the fatality was a pure accident and no blame was attributed to the driver. The place was very congested, especially at that time of the night, when people were coming away from the theatres. - William John Roberts, brother-in-law of the deceased, asked if 10 to 12 miles an hour was a reasonable speed in that part of the town, but the Coroner said the car could not have been travelling so quickly as it was pulled up in less than half a length. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was recorded.

Western Evening Herald, Thursday 30 September 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Two Deaths At Devonport. 17-Year-Old Mother And Her Child. - Mr J. A. Pearce, Coroner for Devonport, yesterday conducted an Inquest touching the death of HILDA JANE SMITH, 5 Duke-street, Devonport, and her newly-born female child. - MRS MARY ELIZABETH SMITH, 5 Duke-street, widow, identified the bodies as those of her daughter, HILDA JANE SMITH, single, aged 17 years, and her newly-born female child. Witness said she had not the slightest idea that her daughter was about to have a baby. - Dr G. C. Sandford deposed to finding deceased in a state of shock and exhaustion. A child was in the bed. He did what he could for the deceased, but she died within half an hour. The cause of death was very extensive haemorrhage and shock. The doctor added that he was opinion that the child was not born alive. - The Coroner recorded verdicts in accordance with the medical evidence.

Western Evening Herald, Saturday 2 October 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Sailor's Suicide. - Worried About Going To Sea. - The Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, held an Inquest today on the body of CHARLES HENRY GOUGH, 66 Cecil-street, Plymouth. - FLORENCE MAUD GOUGH, widow of the deceased, said her husband was 23 years of age and an able seaman in the Royal Navy. She last saw him alive on Wednesday when he appeared to be depressed. He disliked going to sea. She had never known him threaten to take his life. - Charles Brown, fruit dealer, 66 Cecil-street, Plymouth, said that about 1 p.m. on Wednesday MRS GOUGH asked him to come upstairs as she could not get into her room. Finding the door locked he burst it open and then saw the deceased lying on his back with his head in the oven. The gas was fully turned on. Witness switched off the gas and opened the window. The man appeared to be dead. - Dr H. R. Corbett said he was called and found the man dead. Death was due to gas poisoning. - The Coroner's verdict was "Suicide whilst in a state of Temporary Insanity."

Western Morning News, Monday 4 October 1920
TOTNES - Foot From Safety. Tree-Felling Fatality At Littlehempston. - The Inquest on WILLIAM KING, who was killed at Hampstead Farm, Littlehempston, while felling a tree on Friday evening, was held at Totnes Guildhall on Saturday by Mr T. Edmonds, Deputy Coroner. - RICHARD KING, brother, who was in charge of the party felling the tree, said deceased was 45 years of age. The tree was a fairly large oak, and was standing near the railway. They cut through the tree, and when it was ready to fall witness saw it was twisting. Deceased was driving in a wedge, and witness shouted, "Look out, BILL; the tree is coming," but deceased ran in the direction the tree was falling and one of the big branches caught him on the right shoulder, pinning him to the ground. Witness ran to the farm for assistance and got deceased out, but he was dead. If he had gone a foot further he would have cleared the branch. - Dr S. C. Jellicoe said deceased was very badly crushed and death was instantaneous. - The verdict was one of "Accidental Death."

Western Evening Herald, Monday 4 October 1920
PLYMOUTH - A Fall In Church. Death Of A Plymouth Widow. - An Inquest was held this morning by Mr R. B. Johns, the Borough Coroner, concerning the death of ELIZA FROST WYATT, a Plymouth widow, aged 76. - EDITH TABB, a married daughter of deceased, stated that the latter fell over a wire mat in St Jude's Church on September 18th, receiving injuries to her leg. - Dr Margaret Riddell, M.B., a House Surgeon at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, said that deceased was admitted on the date of the accident, suffering from a fractured femur. Death, which occurred this morning, was sue to heart failure, following shock. - A verdict in accordance with medical evidence was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 6 October 1920
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns returned a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" at yesterdays Inquest on RICHARD JAS. WHITTON, found dead in bed by his wife on the 4th inst. According to medical evidence, death was due to heart disease.

Western Evening Herald, Friday 8 October 1920
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Burns. Little Girl's Death At Plymouth. - The sad circumstances attending the death of DOROTHY BEATRICE MARTIN, the five-year-old daughter of MRS E. B. MARTIN, wife of SAMUEL F. MARTIN, an ordnance officer, R.N., of 17 Park-street, Plymouth, were Enquired into by the Plymouth Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, at the S.D. and E.C. Hospital today. - In her evidence, the mother stated that yesterday morning about nine o'clock she left deceased in the kitchen, where one of the jets at the top of the gas stove was burning. Later she heard a scream and was called by a neighbour. On arrival she found that the child's clothes were on fire. She took them off as speedily as possible and the Police were called. The child was later taken to the Hospital. Apparently the child had climbed up to a cupboard near the stove and her clothes had in some way become ignited. - Dr M. K. J. Riddell, House Surgeon at the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, said that the child was admitted suffering from excessive burns about the body. She died later from shock, following the injuries. - "Accidental Death" was the verdict returned.

Western Evening Herald, Saturday 9 October 1920
PLYMOUTH - Sudden Death At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns, Plymouth Coroner, held an Inquest this morning concerning the death of WILLIAM HENRY NETHERTON, boot-maker of 1 Pound-street, Plymouth. - REDVERS WILLIAM NETHERTON, son of deceased, said that his father returned from a theatre performance on Thursday evening and appeared to be well. He collapsed in his chair later. - Dr William Hardwick said that the man was dead when he arrived. A post-mortem examination showed fatty degeneration and dilation of the heart. Death was due to heart failure , probably accelerated by a heavy meal. - A verdict that "Death was due to Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 12 October 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plym Bridge Fatality. Keyham Butcher's Death. - An Inquiry was opened at the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday, by Mr R. B. Johns, Coroner, into the death of MR LESLIE CLAUDE VICTOR SNELL, 28, a butcher, residing at 51 Admiralty-street, Keyham, Devonport, who was injured at Plym Bridge last Thursday by a runaway truck and died as the result. At the outset the Coroner intimated that only formal evidence of identification would be taken and the Inquiry would be adjourned. Mr Elliot Square appeared for the widow. There were also present Messrs. A. Walmesley, divisional officer; H. S. Coombes, works officer and M. A. Mathews, (representing the Board of Trade), and Police-Supt. W. H. Chamings. - MR H. H. SNELL, brother, said deceased had always had good eyesight and hearing. - The House Surgeon at the Hospital stated that deceased when admitted on Thursday was conscious, but his mind was a blank. He was suffering from a fractured skull, concussion, a fractured nose, extensive lacerations above the eyebrows, and his right eye was displaced. He was operated on the same day, the brain being exposed, but the case was hopeless from the first, and he died on Saturday. - Mr M. A. Mathews, on behalf of the Board of Trade, extended sympathy to the relatives and the Coroner, in adjourning the Inquest until October 20, associated himself with these remarks.

Western Evening Herald, Thursday 14 October 1920
PLYMOUTH - The Death Of MR BOWERING. Many Years A Sufferer From Heart Weakness. - A verdict of "Death was due to Natural Causes" was returned at an Inquest held this morning by Mr R. B. Johns, Plymouth Coroner, concerning the death of MR ROBERT BOWERING, aged 54. - MR J. C. BOWERING, son of the deceased, stated that the latter collapsed while walking from George-street into Bedford-street on Tuesday morning and expired immediately. - Dr M. D. Kelly said that he had attended deceased many years for heart trouble, and stated that death was caused by heart failure.

Western Evening Herald, Monday 18 October 1920
NORTH PETHERWIN - Found In The River. Sad End Of A North Petherwin Farmer. - An Inquest was held at North Petherwin this morning respecting the death of SAMUEL BAKER, farmer, 69, of Trerose Farm, North Petherwin. - The evidence of the widow and other witnesses showed that deceased had suffered a very great deal from severe pains in his head. About twelve years ago he was treated by Drs. Thompson and Butt for meningitis and he had, since that time endured great pain in his head, which he (deceased) described as "a gun going off, or machinery working at a terrific rate." - After a sleepless Thursday night he went out on Friday morning and did not return. He was found on Saturday morning in the river lying in several feet of water. His coat was found some considerable distance higher up. - Dr Butt said the family had done their very best for the deceased in a trying time. The illness doubtless affected the brain and he was not responsible for his action at the time. - A verdict in accordance with the evidence, "Suicide while Temporarily Insane" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 19 October 1920
PLYMOUTH - Sudden Death At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns yesterday returned a verdict of "Natural Causes" at an Inquest on MARY ANN LANCE, wife of JOHN LANCE, general labourer, of Stoke's-lane, Plymouth. - Deceased, who was 62 years of age, was standing at the front door when she suddenly fell to the ground and expired. - Death was due to valvular disease of the heart, for which she had been attended by Dr T. Macnair for several years.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 20 October 1920
TAVISTOCK - Riding Fatality. Inquest On MR EDGCOMBE STEVENS. - MR EDGCOMBE STEVENS, whose tragic death by being thrown from his horse near Tavistock was reported yesterday, was a son of the late MR T. J. STEVENS, of Harwell-street, Plymouth. He was articled to Messrs. Skardon and Phillips and soon after being admitted a solicitor, about 20 years ago, commenced practice for himself in Courtenay-street, Plymouth. Shortly afterwards he joined a London firm, and under the title of Betts, Stevens and Co., had offices both in London and in Princess-square, Plymouth. He married a daughter of the late Mr J. R. Wilson, wine and spirit merchant, and on Mr Wilson's death, in August 1914, he returned to Plymouth, and since then had been living with his wife and family at Yelverton. MR EDGCOMBE STEVENS had a pleasing and impressive manner, and although he made few appearances in the law courts, he had a considerable private practice. Prior to his removal to London and the increasing work of later years, MR STEVENS gave promise of taking part in the public work of the town. For one session he led the Conservative party in Plymouth Parliamentary Debating Society, and on one occasion was a candidate for municipal honours in Drake's Ward. - Mr R. R. Rodd held the Inquest at Tavistock Hospital yesterday. - GEOFFREY H. STEVENS, articled clerk, said his father left home about ten o'clock on Monday morning on horseback for Tavistock. It was his own horse and he was a thoroughly good rider. - John Palmer, dairyman, Tavistock, said while thatching a rick at Whitchurch about 10.30 he saw MR STEVENS riding on the old Horrabridge road leading from Grenofen Cross to Whitchurch. The horse was galloping on the waste piece of grass at the side of the road. Hearing the horse stumbling, he though an accident had happened, and leaving the rick he found MR STEVENS lying in the road unconscious. The horse had risen and bolted. MR STEVENS was bleeding from the nose and mouth, and must have been dragged, because he was lying some distance beyond where the horse fell. He had full control of the horse. Possibly through being pulled out into the road the horse stumbled. - In answer to the Coroner, deceased's son said the horse was young and spirited, but quiet. - Dr Bailey, of Yelverton, said death was due to fracture of the base of the skull. - The Coroner said it was a shockingly sad accident and his deepest sympathy went out to MRS STEVENS and the family. He was satisfied that the deceased was Accidentally thrown from his horse. His attention had been drawn to the fact that MR STEVENS had rubber on his boots. That was liable, he supposed, to hang up the foot in the stirrup, and to be an aggravating cause to a rider in difficulty. He did not know in this particular case if it in any way contributed to the injury, but it was well to draw public attention to the danger of riding with rubber on the boots. - Tribute At Police Court. - Before commencing business at Ker-street Police Court, Plymouth, yesterday morning, the Chairman (Mr Myer Fredman) referred to the sad and untimely death of MR EDGCOMBE STEVENS. Although deceased had not been in the court a great deal he was well known and highly respected in the legal profession. On behalf of the Magistrates, he extended deep sympathy with the bereaved family. - The Deputy Clerk, Mr Jeffery Bone, associated himself with the remarks of the chairman, while Mr Elliot Square expressed sympathy on behalf of the legal profession. - The Chief Constable, Mr H. H. Sanders, said he had, perhaps, had more to do with the late MR STEVENS than the Bench, and he had always shown the greatest courtesy. He regretted his death very much indeed.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 20 October 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Preferred Suicide. Redruth Woman's Sad End At Plymouth. - The story of how a young woman with a sad history, threatened to end her life on being summoned to appear at the Police Court was yesterday related to the Devonport Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, at an Inquest on EMILY ROGERS, 32, whose body was discovered in the Hamoaze on Saturday morning. - Antony Ruse, Flora-street, Plymouth, said he had been living with deceased for between four and five years. He always understood that she was single, and they thought of being married about five months ago. - The Coroner: Do you think she worried because she was not married? - No, I don't think so. She came from Redruth, and it is about 14 or 15 years since she left her home. He last saw her alive at 10.30 p.m. on October 6, when she was near the door of the house. She was then intoxicated. As she had gone away and not returned by 11.30 p.m. he thought she was staying with some friends for the night, which she did sometimes. - I understand she was summoned to appear at the Police Court. What was that for? - For using bad language, I think. She said "What shall I do if I am summoned? I would rather do away with myself than go to Prison." I told her not to be so silly, and that if she was fined the amount would be paid. - Further questioned, witness said a man he knew came to him on the morning following the disappearance of deceased and told him he had found a hat on the rocks at Rusty Anchor. Thinking that deceased might have done away with herself, witness asked the man to bring him the hat, and he immediately identified it as the one deceased was wearing. - Elizabeth Fryer, Flora-street, wife of a naval pensioner, said she saw deceased at 11 a.m. on October 4, when she was crying bitterly. She said, "If I get two summonses I can never face Prison, and I have no mother or father to help me." - The Coroner returned a verdict that deceased Drowned herself while of Unsound Mind.

Western Morning News, Thursday 21 October 1920
PLYMOUTH - Runaway Truck. Inquiry Into Plym Bridge Fatal Accident. - The death of CLAUDE SNELL (28), a butcher, residing at 51 Admiralty-street, Keyham, on October 7, at Plym Bridge, was subject of an adjourned Inquest by the Plymouth Coroner yesterday. MR SNELL met his death while riding a motor cycle along the Crownhill-Plympton road, through being struck by a timber-laden truck, which got out of control when coming down a steep gradient from the top of the wood, overlooking Bickleigh Vale. - Mr E. Elliot Square represented the next-of-kin, and Mr M. A. Mathew, Exeter, the Board of Trade, under whose control the work was being carried out. - Mrs Emily Grace Baker, 4 Broad Park-road, Plymouth, said she saw the deceased coming up the road at a slow speed, and the truck came down the incline at a rapid speed and crashed into him. - Mr Harold S. Coombs, works manager for the Board of Trade, 7 Moorland View-terrace, Plympton, stated that he believed the wooden sprague, which acted as a brake, either broke or jerked out. If the truck had continued in the ordinary way down the incline, a man with a red flag would have arrived on the road first, in order to warn passengers. But the sprague breaking, the speed of the truck was accelerated and made this impossible. - The Coroner: If this truck had been supplied with a proper brake this accident would not have happened? - I don't think it would have made any difference, because sometimes the wheels skid and a brake would have been no use. - Missing Sprague. - Cleman Horton, labourer, Higher Colebrooke, said the trucks were lowered by means of a wire rope attached to a pulley fastened to a stump of a tree. When the truck in question was loaded witness placed a sprague in one wheel, which would stop both wheels. He had orders to go to the bottom to warn traffic. He first became aware that the truck was out of control when it was about 50 yards behind him, and he only just succeeded in clearing it as it rushed past. The sprague he had put in was no longer there. - The Jury found a verdict of "Accidental Death," and expressed the opinion that in future a man with a red flag should be placed at the bottom of the incline before the truck was set in motion.

Western Evening Herald, Friday 22 October 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - Fatal Accident At Defiance Halt. Inquest On A Young Sailor Today. - The story of an accident at Defiance Railway Halt, St Stephens-by-Saltash, last Monday evening, resulting in the death of a young sailor, was told at an Inquiry held this morning at the Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse, by Mr R. R. Rodd, County Coroner, into the circumstances surrounding the death of CHARLES JAMES PHILLIPS, aged 21, an able seaman of H.M.S. Defiance. George Shaply, Stationmaster at Defiance Halt, stated that on Monday last the rail motor, consisting of two cars on each side of the engine, arrived from Saltash at 8.30 p.m. Twenty-five passengers, including the deceased, alighted. Witness was collecting tickets at the way-put when he noticed sailors approaching him on the platform. He afterwards saw deceased between the platform and the car. He was extricated and attended to. He seemed to be injured and suffering from shock. The train had moved to get on the up rail before the passengers were clear of the down platform. He thought deceased was struck by the moving train, and thrown between it, and the platform. - Evidence By Conductor And Others. - Ernest Coombes, rail-motor conductor, G.W.R., said that on the evening in question he had complied with the regulations and did not open the door of the car until the train had stopped. After all the passengers had alighted, he received the "all right" from the conductor in front, and gave the signal to the driver. The car had travelled about sixty feet when it was suddenly stopped and witness subsequently found the deceased between the motor and the platform. He asked the deceased how it happened, and he replied that he slipped on the stone. It was a dry night, witness continued, and there were no obstructions to cause him to fall. Deceased seemed quite sober. - Gerald Radcliffe, lieutenant, R.N., H.M.S. Tactician, was present when the deceased informed the conductor that he slipped and fell. - John Clarence Shirley, able seaman, H.M.S. Sylph, said he was with the deceased on Monday evening and alighted from the rail-motor in front of him. Then he suddenly heard him scream and on looking round found he had slipped between the motor and the platform. He shouted for the car to stop and the driver pulled up at once. His opinion was that the deceased was perfectly sober. - At The Hospital. - Norman Sinclair Micklejohn, Surg.-Comdr., R.N., attached to the R.N. Hospital, Plymouth, deposed that PHILLIPS was admitted to the Hospital at 10.15 a.m. on the 19th suffering from injuries for which an operation was necessary. He was conscious. He died the same day at 10 p.m. The injuries were the cause of death. - Sidney Roach, Surg.-Comdr., R.N., H.M.S. Defiance, said his attention was drawn to the deceased on the Monday evening. He had him put in the sick-bay and subsequently removed to the R.N. Hospital. He agreed with the previous witness that the injuries received in the accident were sufficient to cause death. - The Platform. - In summing up, the Coroner suggested to the G.W.R. representative present that the railway authorities should consider the question as to whether the Defiance Halt platform was wide enough to be compatible with safety. - A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical evidence, the Coroner expressing his sympathy with the boy's parents.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 27 October 1920
PLYMOUTH - Fatal Fall At Devonport. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest at the Plymouth Mortuary this morning, conducted by Mr R. B. Johns, relative to the death of EBENEZER GRIFFIN, 63, of 70 St Aubyn-street, Devonport. - The widow, CHRISTINA GRIFFIN, said her husband was a locker attendant at the Welcome, Devonport. Deceased was walking downstairs at home when his leg gave way and he fell, and broke his thigh. He was taken to the Royal Albert Hospital, where he remained a little over a week, and was then removed to the Workhouse infirmary and died there on October 25th. The fall was quite an accident. - Dr C. J. Cooke said there was no organic disease and death was due to shock, resulting from the accident.

Western Morning News, Thursday 28 October 1920
PLYMOUTH - Disregarded Warning. Plymouth Lorry Fatality. - "There is necessity for some bylaw to prevent motor lorries and other heavy traffic using narrow thoroughfares," said the Plymouth Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, at yesterday's Inquest on WILLIAM HENRY STITSON (76) of Batter-street. The fatality occurred in Zion-street. A Government motor lorry was proceeding down the narrowest part of the street, when the driver, Pte. C. R. Shaw, R.A.S.C., noticed STITSON'S back protruding from a doorway. Deceased was asked to go to the other side of the road. "No; I've a perfect right to stand in a doorway," he replied and the lorry passed on, though STITSON stood further back. - A Naval pensioner who witnessed the occurrence, said STITSON appeared to have been struck by the lorry and crushed. - A doctor gave evidence that several ribs were broken and the lungs lacerated. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, the Coroner pointing out that the driver had endeavoured to avoid an accident.

Western Evening Herald, Friday 29 October 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Devonport Builder's Suicide - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at Devonport last evening on EDWIN TENNEY SCREECH, 33, builder and undertaker, of Morice-street. - FRANK BASIL SCREECH said his brother became very worried over his business after he joined the Navy during the war, and since then. - Thomas W. Full, labourer, deposed to finding deceased hanging from a beam, and Dr J. Ingram said a short time ago MR SCREECH was depressed and greatly worried about his business affairs. He said he was quite unable to grasp the essentials of even a small contract. Witness told him the whole thing was imaginary and due to a nervous condition, and suggested a good rest and change. - The Coroner said he had known MR SCREECH personally, and there was no doubt he must have been considerably worried, probably over imaginary troubles. He extended his deep sympathy with the relatives. A verdict of "Suicide while of Unsound Mind" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 9 November 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - The Devonport Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, held an Inquest yesterday on ELIZABETH ANN OLIVER, aged 66, widow of a naval pensioner, who lived at 11 Tamar-terrace, Stoke. - Robert W. J. Martin, retired lieut., R.N., a nephew, said that on Wednesday his aunt fell while getting out of bed, fracturing her thigh. She died on Friday. - Dr J. E. Wilson, who had attended deceased for several years, said she was slightly paralysed on the left side. Death was due to shock. - Verdict in accordance with medical evidence.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 9 November 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Lonely Life. Ex-Dockyardsman's Suicide At Devonport. - A verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind" was returned by the Devonport Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, yesterday, at an Inquest on ALFRED JOHN HAWKINS, formerly a skilled labourer in the Dockyard. - The Coroner remarked that despite the publicity given the case, no one had come forward to claim the deceased. - Mrs Edith Salmon, 74 Gloucester-street, said deceased was a neighbour, and was about 61 years of age. He left the Dockyard about seven months ago, on reaching the age limit, and lived alone. He had no pension, but received a gratuity, and had since been drinking rather heavily. She believed he had a sister in Devonport. Apparently he had come to the end of his resources. She last saw him on Friday morning, when she gave him a cup of tea. - P.C. Selley said he forced the back door of deceased's house and found him lying on the bed fully dressed. The room was full of as, the tap having been turned on. The door and window had been closed and the chimney stopped up with newspapers. - Dr T. McElwaine said death was due to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Western Evening Herald, Thursday 11 November 1920
PLYMOUTH - MR T. HART'S Sudden Death. Inquest Today. - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned this morning by the Plymouth Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, at an Inquest held at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital on the late MR THOMAS HART, a well-known retired Post Office official, who died suddenly on Tuesday evening last at Plymouth. - EDWARD ROBERT UNDERDOWN said the deceased was his stepfather. He last saw him alive when he went out to an anti-Bolshevist meeting. - P,C. Arthur Saunders stated that on Tuesday evening he was at an anti-Bolshevist meeting in Sherwell Arcade when about 9.30 the deceased spoke to him; he said "This meeting is getting rather heated." Later witness was informed that deceased was taken ill. He sent for the ambulance but death must have occurred on the way to the Hospital. - Dr Thomas Barrington McKee, House Physician at the S.D. and E.C. Hospital, said that deceased was dead when admitted. Death was due to heart failure.

Western Morning News, Friday 12 November 1920
PLYMOUTH - Miner's Suicide At Plymouth. - An Inquest was held at Greenbank House, Plymouth, yesterday, by Mr R. B. Johns, Borough Coroner, on SAMUEL HARRIS, aged 51, a miner. - Ellen J. Lovering, of Manor-gardens, Plymouth, said that as the result of a mine explosion seven years ago, HARRIS'S eyes were affected, and he was unable to work. She saw him three weeks ago, when he was all right, and satisfied with his treatment. - John Knight, male nurse, told how he saw HARRIS at 2 a.m. on Tuesday in bed. He missed him at 5.30 and found him in the lavatory, dead. Around his neck were marks caused by the lavatory chain. - Dr J. P. S. Ward said death was due to shock, which affected the heart and produced syncope. A verdict of "Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 13 November 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Collapse In The Street At Devonport. - Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest at the R.N. Barracks, Devonport, yesterday, on RONALD EVEA, aged 31, engine-room artificer, second-class, of 81 Wilton-street, Devonport, who died the previous day. - Lieut.-Com. JOHN EVEA, R.N. (retired), 25 Delahay-avenue, Plymouth, said deceased, his son, was serving in H.M.S. Orion, at Portland, until the previous Friday, when he had a fainting attack, and was taken to the R.N. Hospital, Portland. Witness on Saturday went to Portland, where he found that deceased had recovered consciousness. On Monday his son was discharged to the R.N. Barracks, Devonport, for a month's convalescent leave and called at the Barracks on Thursday to see about his pay. - Able-seaman C. W. Hoyder said he was passing Johnston-terrace, near the Naval Barracks on Thursday, when he saw a chief petty officer hanging to the railings of a house. He assisted him to the sick bay at the Barracks. - Surg.-Com. F. J. McKenna, R.N., said that when he saw deceased at the sick bay he was in a comatose condition and died in 20 minutes. Death was due to cerebral haemorrhage through chronic disease of the kidneys. Deceased's kidneys were each 2lb. in weight, whereas the normal weight was 5oz. or 6oz. - Verdict: "Natural Causes."

Western Evening Gazette, Monday 15 November 1920
PLYMSTOCK - Plymstock Farmer's Death. Pneumonia Following Injury To The Knee. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest at Court Gate Farm, Plymstock, today relative to the death of SYDNEY ALBERT HINE (49), a farmer, who died on Saturday. - WILLIAM GEORGE HINE, a cousin, said that on November 4th deceased fell over the back stairs, bruising his left knee. The knee seemed to swell, but improved from day to day. - Dr S. N. Scott said the knee was dislocated, but yielded readily to manipulation. There were signs of pneumonia on November 11th which rapidly developed and on Saturday death took place, accelerated by shock, due to the injury and exposure. - A verdict that deceased died from Pneumonia, accelerated by dislocation of the left knee, caused by an Accidental Fall, was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Wednesday 17 November 1920
PLYMOUTH - A Plymouth Sudden Death. - The Deputy Borough Coroner, Mr J. Graves, this morning conducted an Inquiry into the death of ARTHUR MARTIN, 61, a Custom's watcher of 24 Salisbury-road, Plymouth. - Herbert Rowley, who was on the 16th inst. working with the deceased at Messrs. Nicholson's bonded stores, Stillman-street, stated that deceased, a few minutes after complaining of heart trouble, fell down. Witness rendered first aid and sent for a doctor, but death took place within five minutes. - Medical evidence was given by Dr A. R. Phelps to the effect that the deceased had for a long time suffered from valvular disease of the heart and to this he attributed death. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 17 November 1920
PLYMOUTH - Mr R. B. Johns returned a verdict of "Natural Causes" at an Inquest at Plymouth yesterday on MRS ELIZABETH BEER, aged 94, widow, of Hoe-street, Plymouth, who fell last month and fractured a rib. Dr Waterfield said the fall accelerated death, which was due to exhaustion following senile decay.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 23 November 1920
PORTLAND, DORSET - Plymouth Man Drowned At Weymouth. - An Inquest was held at Portland yesterday on SIDNEY CHARLES YEARLING, 38, married, of 28 Wyndham-street, Plymouth, who was drowned on Sunday night by falling off the drifter Sunset. - Lieut. Lawrence, in charge of the drifter, said that when told a man was overboard he stopped the engines and burnt lights and searched for three-quarters of an hour. The body was found by another drifter. - A naval witness said he had been told the drifters were dangerous in rough weather, and the Coroner said he should report it to the Admiralty. - A.B. Constable said when deceased came aboard he took a seat about amidships and witness advised him to sit somewhere else as it was rough weather. The seas were washing over when they left the harbour. - A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 23 November 1920
BRIXHAM - Minister's Sad End. Son's Tragic Discovery At Brixham. Coroner's Comment. - A painful tragedy, which has caused a deep sensation in Brixham and Dartmouth, was investigated by Mr Sidney Hacker, Coroner, yesterday, when he conducted an Inquiry concerning the death on Saturday night of REV. FREDERICK J. MURRELL, superintendent of the Dartmouth and Brixham Wesleyan Circuit. Deceased was in Canterbury during the War, and came to Brixham last year. Owing largely to his strenuous work in the large camps around Canterbury, his health was much impoverished and he had been under the medical care of Dr Falconer for some time. - Found By His Son. - Deceased's son, HENRY MURRELL, age 17, said he left his father's room at 8.30 p.m. on Saturday for supper. Returning there, he found his father on the bed, bleeding. He screamed for his mother, who came and took a razor from his father's hand and sent witness for Dr Falconer. - MRS MURRELL said deceased came to Brixham in September 1919 as superintendent minister. Latterly he had been in failing health and the last time he did duty was during the first week in August last. He had an idea he was not going to recover. A short time ago he asked her to take his razor out of his room, and she did so, giving it back to him only when he required it for shaving. When she heard her son scream she ran upstairs and found her husband kneeling or sitting with his head over the bed bleeding. She took a razor from him, and heard him whisper, "I cannot die." She was very much frightened and screamed for her son to fetch Dr Falconer. - Highly-Strung Man. - Dr Falconer stated that when he arrived at the manse he found deceased lying on the bedroom floor with his throat cut. He was still alive, and just able to whisper. Witness tried to get him into bed, but could not manage it single-handed, and, as it would have caused him extreme pain, he attended him on the floor. Having made deceased as comfortable as he could, he asked: "Why did you do this?" Deceased whispered: "It has been in my mind all day." Witness was convinced deceased would not have committed the act if he had been in his right mind. He was a nervous, highly-strung man. - Coroner's Remarks. - The Coroner recalled MRS MURRELL and her son. - Replying to him, MRS MURRELL said that when her son went for the doctor, no one else was left in the house. She remained in the bedroom some while, and after her husband had fallen on the floor she waited outside the door until the doctor came. Both she and her son were afraid to go into the room. - The Coroner: Then you left your husband on the floor bleeding to death. You did not staunch the wound, but waited outside the door with your husband a dying man. - Witness: I waited outside until the doctor came. - MRS MURRELL here broke down in grief and was not asked further questions. - The son, recalled, also said he and his mother were afraid to go into the room. He put a piece of rope on the handle of the door as he was afraid to open it and afraid of what his father would do in such a condition, and he personally did not know what to do. - The Coroner recorded a verdict that deceased Committed Suicide while of Unsound Mind. He said he was not pleased with the evidence given by the son, who should have played a more manly part and not left his father bleeding to death.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 23 November 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Sudden Death At Home Park. - An Inquest was held at Ker-street, Devonport, yesterday, by the Devonport Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, on JAMES PLANT, 53, builder's labourer, of 52 High-street, Plymouth, who died suddenly at Home Park last Saturday. - Deceased's brother-in-law said he accompanied PLANT to Home Park. Just before entering the ground they hurried up a hill and had only entered the ground when deceased fell. - Dr F. E. Price said he found deceased dead. A post mortem examination disclosed that death was due to valvular disease of the heart, accelerated by the exertion of climbing up the hill. The heart was extensively diseased. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 23 November 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Knocked Down By Taxicab. Tailor Killed At Plymouth. - The death of JOHN JAMES PALMER, 64, a master tailor of 78 St Lavan's-road, Devonport, was Inquired into by Mr J. A. Pearce, Devonport Coroner, yesterday. - Deceased's son said his father had been totally deaf for years. - Lieut. E. L. Berthan, H.M.S. Impregnable, said he was in a taxicab proceeding along Wilton-street on Saturday night, when he saw deceased step off the pavement and proceed to cross the road. The driver repeatedly sounded his horn and shouted, and also served to the right, but the man was caught by the left mudguard and knocked down. The car was pulled up in about five yards, and deceased was taken to the Military Hospital. - Samuel Hadden, the driver, stated he had had many years' experience. At the time of the accident he was driving at 14 miles an hour. - Capt. S. P. Sykes, R.A.M.C., said deceased had a compound fracture of the left leg, a fractured bone in the left arm and abrasions on the skull. He died on Sunday morning. Death was due to heart failure, following extensive injuries. - The Coroner, recording a verdict of "Accidental Death," expressed sympathy with the relatives and exonerated the driver from blame

Western Morning News, Wednesday 24 November 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Keyham Fatality. Inquest On LIEUT. MOYES Opened. - The Inquest on LIEUT. ARTHUR J. MOYES (51), of Edgcumbe Park-road, Plymouth, killed by a rail-motor when crossing the railway line at Keyham on Monday afternoon, was opened yesterday and adjourned until next Monday. - MR ALBERT HENRY MOYES said his brother's sight was particularly good and his hearing normal. He was survived by a widow and daughter. - Rev. T. Wilkinson Riddle paid a high tribute to the deceased officer's character. He was most highly esteemed, and very happy in his home life. - The Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, remarked that he noticed LIEUT. MOYES especially last Sunday morning, when acting in a guard of honour at George-street Baptist Church on the visit of the Mayor and Corporation. It struck him how happy and perfectly bright he was. The funeral will take place tomorrow.

Western Evening Herald, Thursday 25 November 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - A Chilian's Fatal Fall. Inquest And Funeral At Plymouth. - Mr R. R. Rodd opened an Inquest this morning at the R.N. Hospital, on JOSI NUNEZ, a Chilian stoker, aged 29, of the Almirante Latorre, who had a fall on board the ship last Sunday and received serious injuries. Only the medical evidence was taken, the Inquiry being adjourned until tomorrow for the attendance of Chilean witnesses. - Surg.-Comdr. Thomas Walter Jeffrey, R.N. Hospital, stated that deceased was admitted on Sunday evening in a state of collapse. He was operated upon immediately and lingered until yesterday evening. He had never shown any real signs of recovery. He had a large external bruise on the abdominal wall and died from intestinal trouble. - The deceased was buried with Naval honours this morning at the Plymouth Cemetery, Father Davey officiating. The body was conveyed from the Hospital on a gun carriage, a number of Chilean officers and men followed the cortege, and about 40 petty officers and men, with an officer, representing the British Navy, attended.

Western Evening Herald, Friday 26 November 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - Missing Chilean Witnesses. Mr Coroner Rodd's Demand For Attendance. - For the second day in succession, Chilean witnesses failed to attend an Inquest held by Mr R. R. Rodd at the R.N. Hospital, to Inquire into the circumstances attending the death of a Chilean stoker, named JOSI NUNEZ of the Almirante Latorre. - The Coroner expressed annoyance that he had received no explanation from the ship. - A Chilean Sub-Lieutenant said that the witnesses left the ship at 9 a.m. for the purpose of attending and produced a written statement of an Inquest reported to have been held on board ship. - Mr Rodd: That is no good at all. I want the witnesses themselves to attend. - The Sub-Lieutenant said that the witnesses were leaving the port at 7 a.m. tomorrow. - Mr Rodd: There is plenty of time to get them here before then. The witnesses must come here at once or there will be trouble. - He told the Sub-Lieutenant that he must make arrangements with the Naval authorities at Devonport for a signal to be sent to the Alimirante Latorre, demanding the attendance of the witnesses. - The Sub-Lieutenant left to do so and the Inquest was adjourned. - Further Postponement. - This afternoon, the further non-appearance of the Chilean witnesses resulted in a further postponement of the Inquest. - The Coroner, Mr R. Rodd, is naturally annoyed that although two Chilean Warrant Officers, from the Almirante Latorre, have called upon him for the death certificate, which he is with-holding until after the Inquest, this is the third time that his summons have been disregarded. - This afternoon he has communicated with the Commander-in-Chief of the port and it is hoped that the required witnesses will be attending tomorrow morning; but as the Almirante Latorre is due to sail at 7.30 a.m., the issue still remains in doubt.

Western Morning News, Saturday 27 November 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - Battleship Fatality. Seaman Killed While Shell Hoisting. - As the result of an Inquest held at the R.N. Hospital, yesterday, by Mr R. R. Rodd, on JOHN JOSEPH GLANVILLE, aged 37, able seaman of H.M.S. Colossus, who met his death through an accident while at work on H.M.S. Collingwood, a recommendation is to be forwarded to the Commander-in-Chief at Plymouth, embodying a suggestion by which accidents of a similar character May possibly be obviated. Mr J. Cochrane (Goldsmith and Peck) watched the proceedings on behalf of the Admiralty. - Leading Seaman R. Beaumont, H.M.S. Vivid, said about 10 a.m. on Wednesday GLANVILLE was engaged with others in hoisting shells on H.M.S. Collingwood with an electric motor. He was standing between the shell drum and the hatchway through which the shells were being raised. He (witness) gave the order to hoist slowly and was watching the shell to see if it was hosting satisfactorily when he heard a muffled cry. Looking up he found GLANVILLE had been caught by the wire, and was being revolved around with the drum. He dashed for the control lever, but Pte. Trim, R.M.L.I., reached the spot first and turned off the power. As it was wet GLANVILLE was wearing his oilskin, and it was possible that it caught between the wire and the drum. On the other hand, as the deck was wet he might have slipped. No defects were discovered in the machinery. - Pte. Trim, of the Royal Marines,, said that in the course of his duties GLANVILLE had to bring his left foot into use and witness thought he slipped and fell across the wire near the drum. - Commissioned Gunner W. S. Ault deposed that the gear and method employed were the usual ones for that kind of work. He was informed by Lieut. Gidley, who had been commissioned gunner in the same ship for five years, that the motor had been worked in the same way without accident during that time. - Com. P. E. Pitts, commanding H.M.S. Collingwood, remarked that he inspected the machinery on the previous day to see that it was satisfactory. By making an alteration in the method of work he was of opinion that an accident of that kind could be prevented in future. His suggestion was that the lead of the wire from the bollard should be away from the control lever and brake when possible. - The Coroner: Could that suggestion be adopted generally? - The Commander: Yes; but it would not always be possible. - Surg.-Com. E. D. J. O'Malley said the terrible injuries received about the head caused death very shortly afterwards. - Returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," the Coroner stated that he intended making a recommendation on the lines suggested by Com. Pitts to the Commander-in-Chief at Plymouth.

Western Morning News, Saturday 27 November 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Died In Street At Devonport. - The sudden death of JOHN FRANCIS DONOVAN, aged 69, naval pensioner, of 30 Cumberland-street, who expired whilst pushing a hand-cart in St Aubyn-street on Thursday, was the subject of an Inquiry by the Devonport Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, at Devonport yesterday. - Evidence showed that half-way up the street deceased suddenly dropped, saying to his brother-in-law, THOMAS HOLMAN, "TOM, I am done for." He had recently complained of a cold and a slight cough and Dr McElwain said death was due to valvular disease of the heart. A verdict in accordance with the medical evidence was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Saturday 27 November 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - Coroner And Chileans. Mr Rodd Accuses Admiral Of Contempt. To Be Reported. - For the fourth time, Chilean witnesses failed to appear at the adjourned Inquest on a Chilean sailor at the Royal Naval Hospital, this morning, and it was learned that the warship Almiriante Latorre, with the witnesses on board, had sailed this morning. - The circumstances provoked severe criticism of Admiral Luis Gomes, in command of the ship, by the Coroner, Mr R. Robinson Rodd. - "The conduct of the Chilean Admiral is undoubtedly a gross contempt of this Court," he said, "and if he was not out of my jurisdiction at the present time, I should have dealt with him in a manner which he thoroughly deserves. I do not think any Court of Justice in this country has ever been treated with greater contempt. I shall report the facts to the Chilean Government in the hope that they will deal with their officer in such a way that his ungentlemanly conduct merits." - The Verdict. - "It only remains for me to arrive at the best verdict I can in the absence of the witnesses, and I therefore record, in accordance with the medical evidence of Surgeon-Commander Jeffrey, of this Hospital, where the deceased died, that the deceased died from gangrene of the intestines and general peritonitis, due to injuries alleged to have been received on the Almirante Latorre, but that there is no evidence available to satisfy me whether those injuries were received accidentally or otherwise." - "I may add," continued Mr Rodd, "That I am informed by the authorities that this Admiral had not the courtesy to acknowledge any of the signals which have been addressed to him during the last three days." - The Admiral's Departure. - Mr Rodd then read the following correspondence:- "From Admiral Sir Montague Browning to Mr R. Robinson Rodd, Coroner, Nov. 27. "On receipt of your telephone message relating to witnesses from the Chilean ship Almirante Latorre not having attended to give evidence at the Inquest on the late JOSE C. DEL C. NUNEZ, of that ship, the Commander-in-Chief sent an officer on board the Almirante Latorre with a message stating that the Inquest was adjourned to 9.30 a.m., Nov. 27, to allow of the attendance of these witnesses, and that no death certificate could be issued until you had completed your Inquest. The officer brought back the enclosed reply, which I am directed by the Commander-in-Chief to forward for your information. - (Signed) H. R. Russell, Secretary to the Commander-in-Chief. (Enclosure). - "From Rear-Admiral Luis Gomez, C.N., 'Almirante Latorre,' to the Admiral Sir Montague Browning, G.K.C.B., M.V.O., Admiralty House, Devonport, November 26. - "In reply to your '1513' I much regret that witnesses will be unable to attend Inquest tomorrow, as I cannot delay the sailing of my squadron. I have satisfied myself that the evidence taken on oath at the court of Inquiry ordered by me was perfectly correct, a copy of which was delivered to the Surgeon-Rear-Admiral of the Royal Naval Hospital by one of my officers today. - (Signed) Luis Gomez, Rear Admiral." - Mr Rodd intimated that the papers referred to had not been delivered as alleged in the letter.

Western Evening Herald, Monday 29 November 1920
PLYMOUTH - A Fatal Fall At Plymouth. - Mr R. B. Johns, Plymouth Borough Coroner, held an Inquest today at the South Devon Hospital on MARY ADAMS, aged 51, of 44 Cattedown-road, who died in the Hospital on Saturday. - Deceased's husband, JAMES ADAMS, gave evidence that his wife on the evening of November 20, slipped on the back doorstep. He heard her scream and went to her assistance. She was subsequently conveyed to the S.D. and E.C. Hospital. - Alexander Gardener Aitkin, Surgeon, said that deceased was admitted suffering from a compound fracture of the left leg, which would be quite easily brought about by a fall. She died from diabetic coma which had been accelerated by the accident. - A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical evidence.

Western Evening Herald, Monday 29 November 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - The Keyham Fatality. Adjourned Inquest Today. - At Devonport this afternoon, the Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, held the adjourned Inquest on the body of LIEUT. ARTHUR JAMES MOYES, R.N., the victim of the recent accident at Keyham station. - The evidence showed that the deceased, entering the luggage gateway was knocked down by the down empty rail motor at the luggage crossing. He was very severely injured and death was instantaneous. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Evening Herald, Tuesday 30 November 1920
EXETER - The Plymouth Murder. Execution Of SAUNDERS This Morning. The Inquest. - CYRIL VICTOR TENNYSON SAUNDERS, the young lance-corporal, paid the extreme penalty for his crime of murdering his young cousin, DOROTHY MAY SAUNDERS, at Plymouth, on September 23rd. - Since the young man was sentenced to death at Devon Assizes by Lord Coleridge on November 9th, no stone has been left unturned to secure his reprieve, but all the efforts were of no avail. Public interest in the case has been very considerable, and up to a late hour last night large numbers of people gathered outside the newspaper office in the hope of hearing at the last minute that a reprieve had been granted. - The Last Hours. - This number included MR TOM SAUNDERS, brother of the condemned man. No such information was received, however, and SAUNDERS was executed at Exeter Prison this morning. Ever since he was sentenced this young man had awaited his fate with calm resignation and he maintained his self-possession right to the end. - He slept well last night, being attended throughout the night by the Rev. E. G. Evans and partook of a good breakfast this morning. He wrote a letter to a Chief Warder and expressed his thanks for all the consideration which had been shown him. - This Morning's Scenes. - A crowd of about 200 people gathered outside the Prison shortly before 8 a.m. and as the Prison clock struck the hour every man bared his head. - About ten minutes after eight the Rev. E. G. Evans left the Prison and ten minutes later the usual notices were placed outside the Prison. - The first was signed by G. Hardy Harris, Under-Sheriff of Devon; R. A. Marriott, Governor of the Prison; and T. M. Bell Salter, Chaplain; and was to the effect that "judgment of death was executed on CYRIL VICTOR TENNYSON SAUNDERS in H.M. Prison Exeter, in our presence." - The second notice was signed by the Medical Officer of the Prison, Dr F. A. Roper, who certified that he "examined the body of CYRIL VICTOR TENNYSON SAUNDERS, on whom judgment of death was this day executed, and that on that examination he found that the said CYRIL VICTOR TENNYSON SAUNDERS was dead." Shortly after these notices had been placed outside the Prison doors, the Under-Sheriff, Medical Officer, and the Chaplain left the Prison and the general public were permitted to approach the door and read the notices. Ellis was the Executioner. - The Inquest. - The Inquest was held at 10 a.m. by the District Coroner, Mr H. W. Gould. - Major R. A. Marriott, Governor of the Prison, identified the body and said the deceased man was a lance-corporal in X Coy., Royal Signal Corps, stationed at Crowborough Camp. He was aged 21 years in two months' time. He was received at Exeter Prison on the 29th October, 1920, from Plymouth, having been committed for the wilful murder of DOROTHY MAY SAUNDERS at Plymouth. Witness was present at the trial when deceased was found guilty and sentenced to death. He produced the warrants for the execution at which he was present that morning, and everything passed off in perfect order. - He produced a letter written by deceased to the Chief Warder. - Deceased's Letter. - The Coroner read the letter which was as follows:- "Dear Chief, - I want to thank you and all the other officers who have had charge of me for the kindly consideration I have at all times received. I appreciate very deeply all the kindness you have shown me. Will you be good enough to convey this message to your colleagues? - Believe me, yours gratefully and sincerely, C. V. SAUNDERS." - George Hardy Harris, Under-Sheriff for Devon, said he received a warrant for the execution of the deceased. He was present at the execution, the mode of which was hanging. He was perfectly satisfied with the way everything was carried out. - Dr F. A. Roper said he was present at the execution. Deceased was hanged and witness was afterwards satisfied that he was dead. - The Verdict. - The Jury found that the body they had viewed was that of CYRIL VICTOR TENNYSON SAUNDERS, who was aged 21, and who was the same person convicted for the murder of DOROTHY MAY SAUNDERS, and that judgment of death was duly executed and carried into effect. - Rumours Denied. - Upon inquiry at Exeter Higher Barracks, it was ascertained that there was no foundation for the statement that troops intended to break out and make a demonstration. - Superintendent Hutchings, of the Devon Constabulary, says Ellis, the executioner, called upon him on his arrival at Exeter on Monday and had a chat. Ellis had no escort, nor did he require any, as no one in Exeter knew him. - Chief Inspector Martin said the Exeter Police took no precautions whatever in connection with the execution, nor did they hear of any being taken. The only thing to lead colour to what was said in the Press today was the existence of some sensational rumours in Exeter yesterday which were entirely without foundation.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 7 December 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Man's Fall. - The Plymouth Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, yesterday held an Inquest at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital on WILLIAM HENRY THOMAS, aged 84, retired carpenter, R.N., who was admitted to the Institution on November 25 suffering from a fractured thigh, sustained through a fall in his garden. - Dr A. G. Aitken, House Surgeon, attributed death to senile decay, accelerated by the fall. - Verdict, "Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 7 December 1920
TAVISTOCK - Cycling Fatality. Motor Scout Killed Near Tavistock. - Mr R. Robinson Rodd held an Inquest at Tavistock Hospital yesterday on JOHN NANKIVELL, aged 50, of Marlborough House, Whitchurch, a motor scout in the service of the Royal Automobile Club and a superannuated member of the Devon County Constabulary. - Benjamin G. Symons, G.W.R. roadsman, Plymouth, said that on Sunday afternoon he was in the Lumbarn road watching gulls and crows in a field, when he was knocked over and became insensible until he found himself in bed in the Hospital. - James Henry Hocking, farm labourer, said he found NANKIVELL and Symons lying in the road. The former was unconscious and the latter semi-conscious. It looked as if the bicycle had run into Symons and that NANKIVELL fell in trying to get off. - The Coroner said what really occurred was a mystery, but he was satisfied it was an accident. He expressed deep sympathy with MRS NANKIVELL and family. The deceased had acted as his officer on many occasions. He was always very fair in giving information and he (the Coroner) would miss him. - The accident occurred on Sunday at 3 p.m., and MR NANKIVELL died in the Hospital about one o'clock yesterday morning from fracture of the skull.

Western Evening Herald, Friday 10 December 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Accident. The Laira Motor-Bus Fatality. - A verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned at an Inquest held at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital, Plymouth, yesterday by the Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, on ERNEST HENRY MOULE (18), store-room attendant, of 3 Tollox-place, Laira, Plymouth, who died on Wednesday evening from injuries received from being run over by one of the Plymouth Corporation motor-buses in Wycliffe-road, Laira. - The evidence showed that the driver of the 'bus (Fred Turner) received the signal to drive on after stopping at Wycliffe-road, and he said that after proceeding thirty yards "I felt a bump at the back of my 'bus." He subsequently found deceased, who had been run over by the back wheel of the 'bus, lying in the road, living but unconscious. Deceased gave no signal that he desired to alight and the driver's explanation was that deceased got on the step and fell off. - The Coroner expressed the opinion that it was a pure accident and exonerated the driver from blame.

Western Evening Herald, Saturday 11 December 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Photographer's Death. Doctor Disproves Poison Theory. - Mr R. B. Johns, Plymouth Borough Coroner, held an Inquest this morning on the body of JOHN EASDEN, aged 53, a photographer, of 38 Union-street, Plymouth, who yesterday morning died after being found with a bottle marked "poison" in his hand. - The first witness was LUCY EASDEN, the widow of deceased, who last saw her husband alive yesterday morning about eleven o'clock when he was in bed and looking strange, staring at the ceiling. When spoken to he did not reply. Just after he began to make a noise and struggle and in his hand witness saw a bottle marked "poison." She called in a neighbour, Mr Fourte, who took the bottle away and fetched a Policeman. - MRS EASDEN said her husband had been suffering from heart disease. He was also in debt and witness believed that had caused him to worry. - Ernest Leonard Fourte, a fruiterer, of Union-street, said MRS EASDEN had called him in the morning saying her husband seemed very strange. He went into deceased's room. MRS EASDEN suddenly cried out, "He has poisoned himself," and took the bottle in question from his hand. Witness believed deceased was in very poor circumstances. - Dr T. Leah, of Stonehouse, said he had made a post-mortem examination and the cause of death was heart trouble of long standing. He had found no trace of any sort of poison. - The Coroner: Do you know what is in that bottle? - The Doctor: No, I don't; it smells like cyanide, but from the smell I could not gather the strength. - Continuing, he said that the cyanide used by photographers was a deadly poison. He did not think a fatal dose would have made deceased struggle; he would have fallen back dead at once. "Is there any proof that he took the cyanide?"asked the doctor. - The Coroner: There is no proof at all that he swallowed it. Perhaps he did not take it at all. He may have been in a state of excitement at the thought of taking his life which would bring on heart failure. - A verdict of "Natural Causes" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 11 December 1920
MILTON DAMERELL - At an inquest at Milton Damerell yesterday on WILLIAM OLIVER, aged 80, an old-age pensioner, it was stated that the body was found lying at the bottom of the stairs and that the neck was dislocated. - Verdict: "Accidental Death."

Western Morning News, Wednesday 15 December 1920
PLYMOUTH - Death Due To Cold Weather. - A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was returned yesterday at an Inquest on MR SAMUEL SCOBLE, aged 78, retired butcher, of Maple-grove, Mutley. Dr R. H. Wagner said death was due to syncope, brought on by the extreme coldness of the air.

Western Morning News, Thursday 16 December 1920
PLYMOUTH - Heart trouble was found to be the cause of the death of RICHARD PEARDON (65) of 15 Bath-lane, Plymouth, at an Inquest held by Mr R. B. Johns yesterday. Deceased fell unconscious in the porch of the Royal Hotel on Monday afternoon and died almost immediately.

Western Morning News, Saturday 18 December 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Crane-Hand's Death. Question Of Safe Gangway At Devonport. - At the North Dockyard, Devonport, Mr J. A. Pearce held an Inquest yesterday on WILLIAM BARRETT, aged 28, a crane attendant employed on No. 4 crane lighter in the Dockyard, who was missed from his craft on Sunday night, and whose body was recovered from No. 4 basin, in which the ship was berthed at the time, on Thursday. Mr K. Eyton Peck Admiralty law agent, attended. - Ernest R. Gregory, leading stoker, stated that he was relieved by deceased at 3 p.m. on Sunday. The lighter was berthed alongside the light cruiser Raleigh in the tidal basin, and was separated from the latter vessel by a "fish," or raft. Two 12-inch planks about 15 feet long were used as a gangway from one ship to the other, and they had no rail or other protection. It was unusual for the lighter to be connected with another ship by planks, the vessel being usually berthed alongside a ship without any "fish," in which case a ladder was used. There were no lights on either vessel at night. If a man fell from the planks he would probably alight on a "fish," and then perhaps fall into the water. Deceased was sober when he came on board and was a temperate man. His duty on board was to get the engines ready for the next morning's work. His only occasion to pass over the gangway would be to use the lavatory in the Dockyard. - An A.B.'s Nervousness. - John Davis, A.B. in the lighter, said he was able to cross the gangway safety, although bad on his feet. It was, however, slippery and awkward to walk upon, even in the daylight. There was a man-rope now on the gangway. At daylight witness saw deceased's cap on the "fish." Witness went ashore in the evening, and did not return to the ship until daylight, as he did not care about crossing the gangway in the dark in consequence of the condition of his feet. He would not hesitate to go aboard if there was a rail on each side of the gangway. - Geo. W. Werry, engine-fitter and diver, gave evidence of the recovery of the body. He thought that deceased had probably struck the edge of a "fish." - Master's Explanation. - Digory Crowther, master of the lighter, asked by the Coroner for his opinion as to the safety of the gangway, said that after 42 years of going about the sea he considered it was fit to use to land a regiment of soldiers, either in the dark or by daylight. He was responsible, and he should not have put the planks there had he not thought such a gangway was safe. It would be safer to have a larger gangway, but owing to the nature of the work the lighter was doing, and its colossal crane causing considerable swaying, it was not practicable to use a gangway which could not be easily moved. - Surg.-Com. W. T. Haydon attributed death to drowning, and said there was no injury to indicate that deceased struck the "fish" in his fall. - A verdict of "Found Drowned" was returned.

Western Morning News, Saturday 18 December 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - Remarkable Adiposity. - At an Inquest at Devonport yesterday into the circumstances attending the sudden death of MRS BESSIE WATT, 63, wife of a Corporation gardener, residing at Alexandra-road, Ford, it was stated that deceased weighed about 20 stone and measured 67 inches round the waist. - Dr Ingram, who attributed death to fatty degeneration of the heart, said deceased was one of the stoutest women he had ever seen.

Western Morning News, Saturday 18 December 1920
PLYMOUTH - At an Inquest on WILLIAM H. F. MASEY, aged 56, painter of 16 Wycliffe-road, Laira, who fell unconscious whilst painting a window at the Air Force Station, Cattewater, Plymouth, on Thursday, Dr Barrington McKee said death was due to apoplexy following cerebral haemorrhage. Verdict: "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 21 December 1920
PAIGNTON - Paignton Child's Death. - At an Inquest yesterday on the five-month-old child of ALBERT EDWARD BRAGG, found dead in bed with its parents at 3 Mill Cottages, Paignton, the mother said the child had a very bad cold and on Friday night she took it to bed with her. - Dr Adams said the child was well nourished, and bore no signs of violence. There were distinct signs of suffocation, which was the cause of death. - The Coroner returned a verdict of "Accidental Death."

Western Evening Herald, Tuesday 21 December 1920
PLYMOUTH - A Cripple Fatally Burned. Inquest At Plymouth. - A death from burning was investigated by Mr R. B. Johns, the Plymouth Coroner, this morning. - Deceased, an old lady, aged 70, named SARAH AGNES PARSONS, of 3 Granby-lane, died in the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital on Sunday from burns received the previous Friday. - Elsie May Short of 2 Stafford-row, Granby-street, said she heard screams and ran across to deceased whose clothes were alight. Witness called for assistance. - P.C. Davey said that when he arrived deceased was burning. The flames were extinguished and he conveyed her to the Hospital on the ambulance. Deceased told him she was drying a pocket-handkerchief in front of the fire, and her clothes caught alight. She was a cripple but could get about slowly. - Dr McKie said that death was due to shock following the burns, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 22 December 1920
PLYMOUTH - New Disease. Unusual Circumstances Of Plymothian's Death. - Dr J. E. Square, at an Inquest yesterday at Plymouth, gave it as his opinion that the deceased, MR ARTHUR SHRIMPLIN, died of encephalitis lethargia, which he described as a new disease. - Deceased, a postal clerk, who lived in Burleigh Park-road, was 50 years of age. Dr Square was called to him on November 28, when he appeared to be suffering from acute neuralgia. Deceased told him he had a severe blow on the right temple about November 25. He stooped down quickly in his bedroom to pick something up and struck his head very violently on a marble wash-stand. He was treated and was able to resume duty at the Post Office for a few days. The doctor continued to see him occasionally, and last Saturday week he showed symptoms of cerebral trouble. His eyelids drooped and his sight was affected. He grew gradually worse, and died on Sunday morning. Remembering his story of a severe blow on the head, Dr Square said he examined the skull during the post-mortem examination, but found no sign of any fracture of haemorrhage such as might be expected. - Dr Square said he came to the conclusion that it was a case of a new disease, called encephalitis lethargia - a disease akin to "sleeping sickness," but not caused by any microbe. - The Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, asked if it was caused by the blow. - Dr Square said no doubt that was the aggravating cause. Four doctors saw the deceased and one of them at least thought it a doubtful case. - The Coroner entered a verdict of "Death from Natural Causes."

Western Evening Herald, Thursday 23 December 1920
EGG BUCKLAND - Crownhill Tragedy. The Suffocation Of Two Soldiers. Coroner's Comment. - The Inquest upon the two corporals who were gassed at Crownhill Barracks was held this afternoon by Mr R. R. Rodd, the Devon Coroner. Deceased, who were named WILLIAM HENRY KELLOW and HENRY BROWN, belonged to the R.M. Fusiliers, the first being a lance-corporal and the second a full corporal. - Major E. Farrell, R.A.M.C., said he was called about 7.50 a.m. yesterday to the two men who were in the N.C.O.'s bunk of X company's barrack room. BROWN was dead, and KELLOW unconscious, but breathing and died on the way to the Military Hospital. Death was caused by suffocation, the result of an escape of gas in their room. There was no evidence of a struggle and KELLOW was fully dressed. The gas was turned off when witness reached the room, but there was still a strong smell. - The Discovery. - Private William Wright said he went to the room to call Lance-Corpl. KELLOW about 6.45 a.m. On opening the door witness was nearly overpowered by gas, but shut off the jet and opened the window, which was tightly closed. The tap was full on and Corpl. BROWN was evidently dead, but Lance-Corporal KELLOW was breathing. - C.S.M. O'Shea said artificial respiration was used without avail. BROWN was aged 25 and KELLOW, 27, and both were single. But for the occurrence both would have been on their way to Egypt. KELLOW being particularly anxious to go. Both were on leave the previous evening and returned to barracks at 10.30 p.m. "Lights Out" was at 10.15 and anyone returning after that time would have to go to bed in the dark. Probably the tap in the bunk was still open when the gas was turned off at the main. - Sergt. M. Brown who was orderly sergt. on Tuesday night said he saw lights out at 10.15 and reported to the guard-room and the Adjutant. Lights in the bunks were allowed until 11 o'clock and the jet in this bunk was burning when witness went off duty. He saw both deceased in the company room at 9.30, but they might have gone out after. - Private P. Murphy said he was detailed on Tuesday night to shut off the gas at the mains in nine blocks and started round at 10.15. He turned it on again at 6.30 the following morning. - Capt. Prendergast, the adjutant, explained that the two dead N.C.O.'S were responsible for their room, and should themselves have seen that all taps were turned off. They should have been in the room on duty from 9.30, a draft being warned for the following day. - The Coroner's Suggestion. - Returning a verdict of "Accidental Death," the Coroner thought that the N.C. orderly officer's duty to see all lights out should extend to the bunks as well as the room. Two valuable lives had been lost, and it was an unsafe practice to turn off gas at the main without satisfying themselves first that all taps were off. He expressed sympathy with the officers and men of the battalion in this unfortunate occurrence. - Both the deceased were English, BROWN hailing from London and KELLOW from Hull. Both held the 1914 Star, the General Service and Victory Medals and had served right through the war. BROWN was in the fierce fighting at Gallipoli. KELLOW has been only a few months in the Munsters, being transferred recently from the Dorset Regt. for special duty. Their relatives have been informed.

Western Evening Herald, Friday 24 December 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - A Devonport Suicide. Woman's Fear Of Paralysis. - The Devonport Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, conducted an Inquiry this afternoon at the Guildhall touching the death of ELIZABETH ANN NICHOLAS, 70 years of age, of 42 Keat-street, Morice Town, Devonport. - The husband, RICHARD MARRICK NICHOLAS, a master shoemaker, said deceased had been ill for some time, and Dr R. B. Wagner had been attending her for years for her nerves. Four years ago she attempted to take her life by cutting her throat. The husband added that they lived happily together. Deceased always had the fear that she would have paralysis of the brain. - Yesterday morning when he came downstairs he knew something had happened, as the fire-place was not cleaned up. He went into the store-room and there found his wife hanging to a peg behind the door. He cut her down. Witness did not know what time she got up from bed. - P.C. Palmer stated that he was called to the house and on arrival found deceased was dead, but the body was quite warm. She was in her night attire. - Dr T. McIlwaine attributed death to hanging, and the Coroner recorded a verdict "That deceased Committed Suicide whilst of Unsound Mind."

Western Morning News, Tuesday 28 December 1920
PLYMOUTH - "Natural Causes" was the verdict at an Inquest on Saturday on CHARLES HENRY DOIDGE (69), navel pensioner, of Oxford-place, Plymouth, who fell dead while proceeding along North-road, on Friday.

Western Morning News, Tuesday 28 December 1920
STOKE DAMEREL - A verdict in accordance with medical evidence was returned by the Devonport Coroner, Mr J. A. Pearce, at an Inquest on a three months old baby, LIONEL R. H. WADDLING, at Devonport, on Friday. Dr G. A. Rae stating that the cause of death was collapse, due to acute congestion of the lungs.

Western Morning News, Wednesday 29 December 1920
PLYMOUTH - Plymouth Woman's Death. - A verdict of "Death from Misadventure" was returned by the Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns, at an Inquest on Monday on THOMASINE VINECOMBE, aged 87, who occupied a room at 3 Milton-street, Plymouth. - JOHN HALSE, son-in-law, said it was customary for him to send breakfast to the old lady, who lived close by. On Christmas morning when witness entered the house, he found deceased lying on the floor and there was a slight smell of gas. Witness sent at once for Dr R. H. Wagner. Deceased had been in the habit of lighting a gas ring to warm the room, and on this occasion had not turned it properly off. She lived for three hours after the doctor's arrival. - The medical evidence showed that deceased , who had suffered from heart disease for some time, had been overcome by the gas fumes.

Western Morning News, Thursday 30 December 1920
EAST STONEHOUSE - "Death from Natural Causes" was the verdict at an Inquest at Stonehouse yesterday on ADELINE AVIS ELIZABETH HOWE, aged 2 months. Dr T. Noy Leah said death was due to convulsions, following bronchitis.

Western Morning News, Thursday 30 December 1920
PLYMOUTH - Sudden Death. - Plymouth Borough Coroner, Mr R. B. Johns held an Inquest yesterday at the South Devon and East Cornwall Hospital on THOMAS CROSS, a riveter, who came from Southampton to Plymouth to join his family for Christmas and arrived at North-road Station in an unconscious condition. Before he left Southampton deceased was suffering from neuralgia and had a doctor's certificate to that effect. Death took place at the Hospital just before midnight. - Dr Thomas B. McKee, House Physician at the Hospital, said when deceased arrived at the Hospital he found he was suffering from acute bronchitis and oedema of the lungs. The case was hopeless from the first. There was no trace of any blow on the skull or the brain. A verdict of "Death from Natural Causes" was entered.

Western Morning News, Thursday 30 December 1920
PLYMOUTH - Tram Cleaner's Death. - Mr R. B. Johns, Plymouth Borough Coroner held an Inquest on THOMAS LUSCOMBE, a tram cleaner, aged 29, of Gifford-terrace, who was taken ill about 7.30 p.m. on Monday and died a few minutes afterwards. Dr Price, after a post-mortem examination, found that deceased had pneumonia and extensive disease of the heart. The actual cause of death was heart failure. - "Natural Causes."