Cruelly Ill-Treating a Pony

October 1885

Mexborough and South Yorkshire Times October 9, 1885

Cruelly Ill-Treating a Pony

Edward Oakley, pony driver, was charged with the cruelty to a pony at Denaby on the 1st inst.

Mr H. H. Hickmott appeared in support of the charge.

Thomas Newman stated that he was in the pit on the first October. He saw the defendant bring some corves, and one tumbled off. Defendant then seized the pony by the head and kicked it under the belly about 20 times. Witness told defendant if he did not stop kicking the pony he would stop him. Witness reported the defendant to the horse keeper. Defendant was wearing clogs at the time the offence was committed. There was no reason why the defendant should kick the pony, as it was doing its work properly.

John Guest the horse keeper referred to, said the pony was in the stables on the morning in question in good health. After work he found a lump under the pony’s belly as big as a cricket ball. The poor animal had “played five shifts” since the occurrence. The pony was not well then (Monday).

Defendant stated that the first witness could not see him as he was 16 or 18 yards away. He denied that he took the pony, and called William Wright, a corporal, who stated that he did not see defendant kick the animal although was nearer than the witness. He was present during the whole of the time and the pony might have strained himself in pulling.

Fine of 40 shillings including costs, and in default one month’s imprisonment was imposed.