Game Trespass

Robert Brewster, miner, Conisbrough, was charged with trespassing in pursuit of rabbits, at Hooton Roberts, on May 5th.

Mr. Hickmott prosecuted for Lord Fitzwilliam, who has the right of shooting over the land, which is in the occupation of Mr. George Mottram. It was stated by a keeper that at 4.30 on Saturday morning, May 5th, he saw the defendant, accompanied by a dog, and armed with a gun, go up the field by the hedge. The dog put a rabbit up which the defendant shot. Several other rabbits were started, but the defendant missed them when he fired. Witnesses went round by the adjoining field and came out in front of defendant. Witness said: “I think this is a fair cop this morning, isn’t it?” Defendant did not reply, but bolted. (Laughter.)

The charge was now totally denied by the defendant, but the Bench inflicted a fine of 2s. and costs.