Mexborough and Swinton Times August 25, 1906

Stealing Turnips at Conisborough

David Waterfield (10), schoolboy, Conisborough, was summoned by Mr Bosdin J Clarkson for stealing 4 turnips, value 3d.

Mr J Baddily appeared to prosecute.

He said perhaps the case looked very paltry one, but complainant had had so much damage done to crops that he had to pay a man four shillings a week to do nothing else but watch the crops.

Charles Hague, Watchman, said he was in a field off Garden Lane, when he saw the defendant pull up turnips. He caught him and got his name.

Waterfield was ordered to pay the costs, 11 shillings and the damage 3d.

Another case of the same kind was brought by Mr Clarkson, the defendants being Jack Charms (11), John Mangham (9), Albert Harrison (14), pitlad, all of Conisborough.

The evidence given by a was as in the last case, only this time 12 turnips were up rooted, and the damage was put down at 9d.

Each boy was attended by his mother, and Major Dove, speaking to them said they should have to look after the boys, as it was and intolerable nuisance to the farmer to have his crops spoilt in this manner. Speaking to the boys he said, “If any of you come here again, you will be flogged.”

The costs 9/3 in each case, was ordered to be paid.

Mr J Baddily appeared for complainant.