Mexborough and Swinton Times June 5, 1885
Game Trespass
George Walker and Afred Sayles, labourers, Bramley, were summoned for a committing a game trespass at Conisbrough on the 21st ult.
Mr Hall appeared for the prosecution.
Edward Stribly, gamekeeper to Earl Fitzwilliam, said on 21 May he saw the two defendants about 6:20 in the morning.
They were ranging a seed field in the occupation of Mr Wigfield, over which Mr Williams had the right of shooting. He afterwards met Walker on his hands and knees at a rabbit hole. Sayles was looking at him. Walker said he had permission from Mr Wigfield and Sayles said he had come with his mate.
Mr Whitfield said he had given Walker permission the previous day, but not on the day mentioned.
John Humphries, gamekeeper, Ravenfield, said he knew the quarry hole in which the defendants were found. Mr Wilson of Kilnhurst, possessed the right of shooting there.
Defendant Walker said they had no nets or ferrets, as they were waiting until Mr Whitfield got up.
Samuel Wigfield asked who had laid the information against the men. He gave the defendant’s permission to go on the line. The witnesses for the prosecution had no right on his line. He did not give permission to both the men. He told Walker that he could kill all the rabbits in the place, and bring anyone with him he liked. He gave a letter to Walker’s brother about a fortnight since; he could not swear to date. Defendant did not know what a “statue” meant.
Mr Wigfield asked for an adjournment in order that he might bring legal assistance. The witnesses for the prosecution had no right on his land, nor their master either. Could hehave an adjournment?
The Chairman (Mr G.B.C.Yarborough): Certainly not; the men have been properly summoned. The defendants would be fined 2s 6d and18s 6d costs.