Matches in the Mine

James Colton, miner, Denaby, was charged with a breach of Special Rule 99 by carrying matches into the pit at Denaby Main Colliery.

Mr. Hickmott prosecuted on behalf of the Colliery Company.

George Waring, miner, stated that on July 8th he was deputed to make a search of the men descending the shaft. When he searched the defendant he found two lucifer matches in his waistcoat pocket. He drew his attention to them and defendant appeared surprised. Witness took him to the deputy and defendant then said someone must have put them in his pocket. He did not smoke at all, and it was an unusual thing for him to carry matches about. The children where he lodged must have put them in his pocket.

Defendant was fined 20s., including costs.

Jas. Walsh, miner, Denaby, was charged with a similar offence.

Mr. Hickmott again prosecuted.

John Cope said that on July 9th he made a search of the men descending the shaft and when the defendant was examined he found a match in his ticket pocket. He called his attention to it and said someone must have put it there.

Defendant pleaded guilty and expressed his regret. He could not account for the match being in his pocket as he never made a practice of carrying matches in his working clothes.

Defendant was fined 20s., including costs.