Mexborough & Swinton Times – Friday 19 December 1884
Denaby Main – Horrible Treatment of a Pony
Walter Hartley and George Morris, trammers, Denaby, were charged with cruelty to a horse by pulling out part of its tongue.
Mr. Hickmott said he was instructed by the Denaby Main Colliery Company to appear in support of the charge. It was the worst case of cruelty he had ever heard.
It appeared that a week ago last Sunday night the two lads were in the pit, and there was a pony there which was being driven by a lad named Willett. The animal, according to the lad’s statement, was somewhat stupid, and the prisoner Hartley obtained a strap, opened the pony’s mouth, took its tongue out, and fastened the strap on to the pony’s tongue. He then pulled at the strap, while the other prisoner held the pony’s head.
Hartley subsequently left the strap and went behind, while the other prisoner took hold of it. Morris pulled and pulled until a piece of the pony’s tongue, measuring about four inches in length, came out. The prisoners decided not to say anything about it, dug a hole in the road, and buried the tongue.
It was at once discovered whilst the poor animal’s tongue was gone, but the authorities were unable to find out until Thursday night who the offenders were. In consequence of certain facts which arose the two lads were charged, and Morris admitted the offence. He intimated his intention to abscond, and a warrant was issued for the apprehension of the prisoners. He was instructed to apply for a remand to enable him to bring the necessary evidence.
The pony had been killed since the affair. It was a very valuable animal.
In answer to the Chairman, Mr. Hickmott said the prisoners were each 18 years of age.
Morris’s mother, who appeared to be in great distress, said she was a widow, and the defendant was the only one she had to depend on for bread.
Hartley pleaded not guilty. Morris pleaded guilty.