South Yorkshire Times – Saturday 8 October 1960
Denaby Man Given a “Unique” Chance
William Hulme (29), stoker, of Barnboro Street, Denaby, was given what Mr. J. B. Willis (presiding) described as a “unique opportunity” when he appeared at the West Riding Quarter Sessions at Wakefield on Tuesday.
Hulme, who admitted breaking into the shop of David High Ltd., at Denaby, and stealing rings and watches worth £31 5s., was put on probation for three years.
Mr. Willis said Hulme had four previous convictions for dishonesty.
“But after much hesitation we are prepared to give you another opportunity, probably a unique opportunity for a person of your record,” he went on
Mr. A. Shackles, prosecuting, said on June 25th, the manager of the shop in Doncaster Road, Denaby, found a glass panel in the front entrance had been broken. A large stone was nearby. A display cabinet had been opened and the property in the charge was missing.
When officers visited Hulme’s home they saw his wife wearing a ring which was identified as part of the stolen property.
In a letter to the court Hulme said he had been unable to get a job and on the day of the offence he had hardly any money left to buy food for the week-end. He sold the watches and rings for £5 10s.