Mexborough & Swinton Times – Friday 19 October 1883
Obstructing the Highway
Jos. Appleyard, joiner, Conisboro’, was summoned for having obstructed the highway at Conisboro’ on the 3rd inst.
Police-constable Marsden said on the day named he was on duty in Station lane, at 12.15 midnight, when he saw a large quantity of sand and stone on the highway and footpath. There would be a dozen loads or more of sand. The point where the stone and sand were placed was a very dangerous spot indeed for foot passengers. Mr. Appleyard had been cautioned once or twice. Defendant was building some cottages, and was the instigator of these obstructions being put there. For 20 or 30 yards the highway was obstructed with large stones, which were near the centre of the highway.
Police-sergeant Calcraft stated that he was in company with the last witness, and that Marsden’s statement was correct.
The defendant said he was a ratepayer, and thought he could use the roads as he liked.
The Chairman: What about the other ratepayers, then?
The defendant said he called the attention of the surveyor to the stones and sand. It was most ridiculous for him to be brought into Court on such a paltry charge. Captain Johnson had given him permission to put the dirt on the road.
Police-sergeant Calcraft, however, stated that Captain Johnson had complained of the matter to the police.
The Chairman said the evidence showed that the highway was very seriously obstructed.
The defendant said that half the road was taken up when the police-office was being built.
Inspector Beevers said the materials used in building were kept in the yard.
Defendant was ordered to pay £1 and 9s. 9d. costs.
Police-sergeant Calcraft: £1 9s. 9d.
Defendant: I understand; you have no occasion to pull my coat.