Mexborough & Swinton Times – Friday 19 October 1883
Gambling in Conisboro’ Castle-yard
Matthew Thompson, Geo. Newbound, and Fredk. Bright, labourers, of Conisboro’, were charged with gambling at Conisboro’ on the 6th inst.
Police-constable Kendall stated that on the day in question he went to the Castle yard, Conisboro’, where he saw the defendants tossing coins in the air. He watched them for a few minutes, and saw all three defendants take part in the game.
Police-sergeant Calcraft said he was in company with the last witness and saw part of the occurrence.
The defendant Thompson said they went into the Castle yard just to reckon their money up. It was not a public road, but a playground. He had a piece of paper and a pencil, and was reckoning his money up when the constable arrived.
Thompson and Bright were fined 10s. and 12s. 6d. costs; Newbound was ordered to pay 20s. and costs.
Geo. Shaw, collier, Conisboro’, was summoned for a similar offence.
Police-constable Kendall stated that on the 6th inst. he went to the Castle yard, Conisboro’, and saw defendant playing pitch and toss with a man whom he did not know. He saw money pass between the two men. When they observed witness they ran away.
Police-sergeant Calcraft corroborated.
Defendant denied the offence, and said he and his companions would not go with the other party.
A previous conviction was proved against him for gambling.
Defendant said he was innocent this time; he had never pleaded guilty before.
The Chairman said: You seem to be a very innocent man.
Defendant: I am.
He was ordered to pay 20s. and costs.