Fatal Fall from Tree for 15 Year Old Denaby Boy

May 1936

Mexborough Swinton Times May 29, 1936

Fatal Fall

How a 15-year-old Denaby Main boy slipped and fell when climbing a tree, and later died from shock following an injury received in the fall, was told at an inquest at Denaby Main on Wednesday by the Doncaster District Coroner (Mr WH Carlile)

The boy was Sydney Pears, son of Robert Pears, colliery engine driver, 22 Wadworth Street, Denaby Main.

George Wellings (10), 27 Wadworth Street, described he, Pears and James Kelly went to Conisborough cliffs on May 18. Near the viaduct they chose a tree, and decided to see who could climb the highest. It was Pears turn first. When he had climbed 6 feet, witness told him to come down, but Pears climbed higher. He slipped and fell on the rocky ground at the bottom of the tree.

James Kelly (11), 26 Wadworth Street, give similar evidence, and said he fetched three men who saw to Pears being taken to hospital.

To Wellings the coroner said: “You see what happens when you go climbing,” and to Kelly, “You had better stop climbing for a bit.”

Dr Forde said that Pairs had a compound fracture of the left ankle. Pears died on Monday, the cause of death being shock following the injury.

A verdict of “Accidental Death” was recorded.