Thanks And Acknowledgements

My thanks go to Kent Libraries and Archives - Folkestone Library and also to the archive of the Folkestone Herald. For articles from the Folkestone Observer, my thanks go to the Kent Messenger Group. Southeastern Gazette articles are from UKPress Online, and Kentish Gazette articles are from the British Newspaper Archive. See links below.

Paul Skelton`s great site for research on pubs in Kent is also linked

Other sites which may be of interest are the Folkestone and District Local History Society, the Kent History Forum, Christine Warren`s fascinating site, Folkestone Then And Now, and Step Short, where I originally found the photo of the bomb-damaged former Langton`s Brewery, links also below.


Welcome

Welcome to Even More Tales From The Tap Room.

Core dates and information on licensees tenure are taken from Martin Easdown and Eamonn Rooney`s two fine books on the pubs of Folkestone, Tales From The Tap Room and More Tales From The Tap Room - unfortunately now out of print. Dates for the tenure of licensees are taken from the very limited editions called Bastions Of The Bar and More Bastions Of The Bar, which were given free to very early purchasers of the books.

Easiest navigation of the site is by clicking on the PAGE of the pub you are looking for and following the links to the different sub-pages. Using the LABELS is, I`m afraid, not at all user-friendly.

Contrast Note

Whilst the above-mentioned books and supplements represent an enormous amount of research over many years, it is almost inevitable that further research will throw up some differences to the published works. Where these have been found, I have noted them. This is not intended to detract in any way from previous research, but merely to indicate that (possible) new information is available.

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Saturday 28 September 2013

Queen`s Head 1900s



Folkestone Chronicle 12-4-1902

Saturday, April 5th: Before Messrs. W.G. Wightwick, C.J. Pursey, W. Salter, W.G. Herbert, and G.J. Swoffer, and Lieut. Colonel Hamilton.

Michael Reilly was summoned for being drunk at the Queen`s Head on Easter Monday afternoon. He pleaded Guilty.

Fined 5s. and 9s. costs, or seven days.

Walter Tame was next summoned for permitting drunkenness on the same premises. Mr. G. Haines, for the defendant, pleaded Not Guilty.

Inspector Lilley deposed to seeing Reilly at the entrance to the Queen`s Head, Beach Street, very drunk. Afterwards, when a constable came up, he saw the man leaning against the partition inside, and the landlord was behind the bar serving. The landlord said he had told Reilly to go out, and that he had had nothing to drink there. Witness said “I know that he has been on your premises for some time; you have had plenty time to get him off, and I shall report you”.

Cross-examined: I did not see the man go in.

Mr. Haines, for the defence, said his client had been in the house 13 years without any complaint. He did not serve Reilly, but, seeing his condition, advised him to go home and go to sleep. Reilly left the bar and went outside the partition, but evidently came back unobserved by Mr. Tame, there being eight people in the bar at the time.

Defendant bore out this statement.

The Chairman, in dismissing the case, said it was not sufficiently proved that defendant knowingly permitted. At the same time, the Inspector did quite right in bringing the case before the Bench.

Folkestone Express 12-4-1902

Saturday, April 5th: Before W. Wightwick, W.G. Herbert, G.I. Swoffer, C.J. Pursey, and W. Salter Esqs., and ColonelC.J. Hamilton.

Michael Riley pleaded Guilty to a summons for being drunk on licensed premises on Easter Monday afternoon.

Inspector Lilley said at three o`clock on March 31st he saw prisoner drunk, and a woman was holding him up in the bar of the Queen`s Head.

The defendant said he was drunk, and he went into the Queen`s Head for a pint of beer, which the landlord refused to serve.

Fined 5s. and 9s. costs or seven days` imprisonment.

Walter Tame, landlord of the Queen`s Head, Beach Street, was summoned for permitting drunkenness on his premises on March 31st. Mr. G.W. Haines defended, and entered a plea of Not Guilty.

Inspector Lilley said about 3.05 p.m. on Monday he saw a man named Riley (the last defendant) in the Queen`s Head. He was very drunk. He kept observation until 24 minutes past three o`clock, when P.C. Philip Prebble joined him. They went to the Beach Street bar and saw Riley leaning against the partition. Witness informed the landlord of the condition of Riley, and he said “Yes, I have told him to go out”, and speaking to Riley said “What have I told you Riley?” He assured witness he had not had anything to drink in the house. Witness told defendant he had had plenty of time to eject Riley, and he would report him for the offence. He and Riley then left.

Supt. Reeve: You had the premises under observation for 19 minutes, Inspector? – Yes.

The Chief Constable: And it would be impossible for Riley to leave the premises without your seeing it? – There is another entrance.

Mr. Haines: Was there anyone else in the bar? – Yes, seven or eight.

Did you see Riley drinking? – No, I cannot say he was.

When he left, did he require any assistance? – No.

P.C. Philip Prebble corroborated.

Mr. Haines, in defence, said the town ought to be congratulated upon having only one case of drunkenness on Bank Holiday, and it reflected much credit upon the conduct of the licensed victuallers. It was idle to deny the facts in this case, but the defendant did not knowingly permit drunkenness on his premises.

The defendant went into the witness box, and said he had been the landlord of the Queen`s Head for nearly 13 years. About three o`clock on Easter Monday Riley entered the bar, and knowing he had had enough, he went up to him and told him to leave, which he did very civilly and quietly. Witness did not see Riley again in the bar until the Inspector entered. He did not serve Riley with any liquor at all.

The Chief Constable: Is it a fact that Riley went right off your premises?

Witness: It is a fact he went out of my sight.

You cannot say he went right off the premises into the street? – He went out of the door.

Mr. Haines: How far are the doors from the street? – About three or four yards.

The Chairman said the evidence was not sufficiently conclusive to convict the defendant, who had borne a good character at this house for many years.

Folkestone Herald 12-4-1902

Saturday, April 5th: Before W. Wightwick, G.I. Swoffer, W.G. Herbert and C.J. Pursey Esqs., Alderman Salter, and Councillor Lieut. Colonel Hamilton.

Michael Riley was summoned for having been drunk on licensed premises, the Queen`s Head, on the 31st March. Defendant pleaded Guilty.

Inspector Lilley gave evidence, and the Bench imposed a fine of 5s. and 9s. costs, or in default 7 days`.

Walter Tame was summoned for permitting drunkenness on his licensed premises, the Queen`s Head, Beach Street, on the 31st March. Mr. G.W. Haines defended, and a plea of Not Guilty was entered.

Inspector Lilley stated that at 3.05 p.m. on the day mentioned he saw the man Riley (the last defendant) in the Queen`s Head. He was very drunk, and witness observed the house, until a constable came up, for 19 minutes. With the constable he visited the house, and went into the bar, where the man Riley was leaning up against the partition. The landlord was in the bar serving and, pointing to Riley, witness said “You see the condition of that man?” He replied “Yes, and I have told him to go out”. Turning then to Riley, he added “What have I told you, Riley?” The landlord also said “He has had nothing to drink here”. Witness said “I know he has been on your premises for some time. You have had plenty of time to get him off”. Witness also said he would report him for permitting drunkenness on licensed premises.

By Mr. Haines: There were seven or eight more persons in the bar – men, women, and soldiers. Witness did not see the man drinking, and when he left he did not require assistance.

P.C. Prebble said he saw Riley very drunk, leaning against the partition.

By Mr. Haines: He did not know how long the man had been there.

The Chief Constable remarked that it was not alleged that the man was served there.

Mr. Haines said Mr. Tame had held the house for 13 years. How carefully it required a man to look after his house in such a locality they would know. He had no conviction against his house. The landlord did not permit this drunkenness. His very conduct in turning the man out showed this. Knowledge was a question which came in there. It must be knowingly on the part of the landlord. It was not sufficiently proved to come within that section.

Defendant said on oath that on Bank Holiday Monday, close upon 3 o`clock, the man Riley came into the bar. Defendant thought he had had enough beer, so he would not serve him. Not hearing him ask for anything, defendant went round and spoke to him, and he said he had called for a pint of beer. Defendant told him to take his advice and go home. He replied that he had not done anything, and afterwards went out quietly, and without another word. Defendant would not have served the man with any liquor in any shape or form. He did not see Riley again in the bar until the Inspector entered.

The Chief Constable: Did Riley go right off your premises?

Witness: He went out of my sight.

The Chief Constable: You cannot say he went into the street?

Witness: He went out of the door.

Mr. Haines: How far are the doors from the street?

Witness: About three or four yards.

The case was dismissed, the Bench not considering the evidence sufficient, and remarking upon the landlord`s good character.

Folkestone Daily News 1-1-1906

Inquest

An inquest was held this afternoon on the body of John Brann, aged 68, a well-known Folkestone fisherman.

From the evidence it appeared that deceased, who lodged at the Queen`s Head, Beach Street, went to bed about 11 o`clock on Saturday night. Two other men slept in his room. They left about 8 o`clock on Sunday morning. At half past 9 deceased was found hanging to the footrail of the bedstead by a handkerchief.

His son was buried on Thursday, and this seems to have worried him.

A verdict of “Suicide while temporarily insane” was returned.

Folkestone Chronicle 6-1-1906

Inquest

The New Year opened in the Coroner`s Court on Monday afternoon with an inquest upon the body of John Brann, a well-known and highly respected Folkestone fisherman, who on Thursday last followed his son to the grave at the Folkestone Cemetery. From that which transpired at the inquest it would appear that deceased, a fine-made, jovial man, had no apparent trouble, but brooded upon the fact that another son did not attend the funeral on Thursday.

The Borough Coroner, Mr. G.W. Haines, having sworn the jury, the first witness called was John Charles Hagg, who said: I am a mariner, and reside at 42, Bridge Street. The body now viewed by the jury I identify as that of John Brann, who resided at Mr. Walter Tame`s, the Queen`s Head, Beach Street. I believe he would have been 68 today. He was a fisherman by occupation. He followed his occupation up to Thursday morning. The last time I saw him alive was on Saturday night. I am his son-in-law. His health of late has been very good. I have always found him a very hearty man, with a cheerful disposition, but I noticed on Saturday he seemed rather quiet. On Thursday last deceased attended the funeral of his son. He seemed rather troubled over his son in London not coming down to the funeral. On Saturday night at nine o`clock I left him. He took my wife`s hand and said “Good night, God bless you”, and I said I would see him at Capt. Dorrell`s the next morning. I asked him to have some tea and he refused, saying he had had a jolly good dinner. I noticed that, because he generally ate so heartily. He did not say anything to me to lead me to think he would take his life, or I should have kept him with me all night. At his fishing he was in constant work.

Walter Tom Tame said: I am the landlord of the Queen`s Head, Beach Street. Deceased has lodged with me about two months. He shared a bedroom with two others. When he was ashore he had his meals at my house. To my knowledge, money matters were not troubling him. I should say that he had an exceptionally healthy constitution. On Thursday he attended the funeral of his son. I saw him on the Thursday evening. Considering that a funeral had taken place, he was in very bright spirits, and it did not appear to have a depressing effect upon him. On Friday he went to sea, and came in on Saturday morning. I think he had his dinner at my house on Saturday, and a cup of tea in the afternoon. He was a man of sober habits; he would take his glass, associate with other men, and conduct himself in the same manner. The last time I saw him alive was on Saturday night, between 9.30 and 10. He said to me “Well, old chap, I`m going round the other side”, intimating that he was going to bed. On Saturday he seemed to be more quiet that at any time previous. He told me that he had consulted a solicitor over his son`s affairs. The son`s absence from the funeral seemed to trouble him considerably. On Saturday night he shared his bedroom with two young men, Spearpoint and Bailey. At a few minutes to eleven o`clock my daughter wished him goodnight. She told me he had gone to bed, and wished her goodnight. Bailey and Spearpoint had been sharing the room on and off for the past ten days. They were not regular lodgers. It was a week prior to Saturday that they had last slept at my house. I went to bed that night at 12 o`clock. I sleep on the same floor in an adjoining room. I heard nothing whatever during the night. On Sunday morning my wife got up about seven o`clock. Just before nine o`clock she came in to me and said “There is something has happened to old Jock” (meaning the deceased). She said “Do come; I think he has hung himself”. I went into the adjoining room. No-one else was in there, save the deceased, who was in a sitting position on the floor at the foot of the bedstead occupied by the two young men. His feet and legs were stretched out along the floor, his body was about that much from the ground (indicating about a foot from the ground). Round his neck was the handkerchief produced. Deceased had his shirt on. The handkerchief was fastened round his neck, and over the knob of the bedstead, twice turned, two half-hitches, and tied in a third knot between his neck and the bed knob. When I looked at him his tongue was not out, there was no saliva, the eyes were shut, but the face seemed quite black. I tried to untie the knot, but failing, took my knife out and cut him down, and sent for a doctor and constable. Deceased`s hands were clasping the rail of the bedstead at the foot. The handkerchief is similar, if not the one, to those used either round his neck or in his pocket. When I saw both hands clutching the rail of the bed, the position struck me as rather peculiar. (Witness illustrated the position of deceased, which showed that the loop was forcing him outward from the bed).

Mrs. Elizabeth Tame said: I am the wife of the last witness. I saw Brann on Saturday night about 9.30, when he said he was going to bed. On Sunday morning I got up about seven o`clock. I said “Good morning” to the two boys, Bailey and Spearpoint, when they went out; they told me they were coming back that night.

The Coroner: Did they come back?

Witness: They did not come back, I suppose because the man was there dead. Just after the postman, Pantry, came with a letter from the undertaker. I went to the bedroom, opened the door, and did not at first see him. I looked round and saw the back of his head beside the bedstead, and thinking there was something the matter, went and fetched my husband.

John Spearpoint said: Occasionally when I stop ashore I stay at the Queen`s Head, but generally I am aboard the boat, F.E. 59. On Saturday last I was sharing a room at the Queen`s Head with deceased and Frederick Bailey. I knew deceased well. At 10.30 Bailey and I went to bed together. When we went up Brann was not gone to bed. I shortly went to sleep, and did not hear him come to bed. I saw deceased in the bar about 9.30. He had not been drinking, and was sober. About 5.30 in the morning I heard a rumbling about, and said to myself “There is old Jock mumbling to himself”, and went to sleep again. At 7.45, when the St. Peter`s bell was ringing, I got up and called Bailey. While I was dressing, deceased rolled over and mumbled again. I said “What is the matter, old Jock?”, and he rolled over, pulled the clothes over him, and made no reply. Bailey and I went downstairs, wished Mrs. Tame “Good morning”, and went out. It was then 10 past 8 by Jordan`s clock. The next thing I heard was a man, who came up to me and said “There is a policemen looking after you. Brann has hung himself”. I said “No, he has not. I spoke to him at eight o`clock”. Subsequently I proceeded to the police station and gave all the information I knew.

Frederick Bailey said: I generally sleep on the boat F.E. 59. On Saturday last I slept at the Queen`s Head with Spearpoint. During the night I did not hear anything. I have heard all that Spearpoint said, and corroborate it.

P.C. Harry Johnson said: On Sunday morning, at nine o`clock, from information received, I proceeded to the Queen`s Head, and there found in a back bedroom on the first floor the body of the deceased, Brann. The handkerchief had been cut off. Mr. Tame was then in the room, and showed me the handkerchief produced. Deceased was lying on the floor on his back, and in his shirt. His face was dark blue, eyes closed. There was a slight impression round the back and sides of the neck. Deceased`s body was very warm. I tried artificial respiration for ten minutes, and sent for the doctor. Dr. Gilbert arrived in about ten minutes. Everything in the room was in order.

Dr. William Thornton Gilbert said: On Sunday morning, about 9.30, I was called by the police to the Queen`s Head. On arrival I found deceased lying on the floor, and the police constable doing artificial respiration. There being no response at all to the artificial respiration, I examined the body and found the man dead. The body was warm, but cooling down. I should say he had been dead about 20 minutes. There was discolouration at the back of the neck, and a slight constriction on the left side. Mr. Tame told me exactly the same story as given in evidence, and Mrs. Tame a story about him being worried at not receiving some money. Deceased was a well-nourished man. From the symptoms death, in my opinion, resulted from strangulation. I have no doubt about that. From the position in which the body was found it would be possible for deceased to strangle himself. The constable and I put the handkerchief round his neck, and found that it would only go once round. The doctor concluded by setting up a theory as to how deceased became strangled.

The Coroner summed up upon the evidence given, and pointed out that there was no doubt death arose through strangulation. The two witnesses, Spearpoint and Bailey, had given their evidence straightforwardly, and there was no doubt that deceased committed the act himself. The question for the jury was, having regard to the evidence; Was deceased in his right mind when the act was committed?

The jury at once returned a verdict of “Suicide whilst temporarily insane”.

Folkestone Express 6-1-1906

Inquest

An inquest was held at the Town hall on Monday afternoon by the Borough Coroner (Mr. G.W. Haines), respecting the death of John Brann, a fisherman, who was found dead in his bedroom on Sunday morning.

John Charles Hagg (son-in-law) said he identified the body as that of John Brann. He lived at the Queen`s Head. He was 67 years of age, witness believed, and was a fisherman. He was always a hearty man, and was of a cheerful disposition. On Thursday last he attended a funeral of his son, and seemed to be worried by the absence of another son. On Saturday he came to witness`s house, and left about tea time. He seemed a little quiet, but witness did not think he was strange in his manner. There was nothing about deceased which would lead witness to think he would take his own life.

Walter Tom Tame said he was the landlord of the Queen`s Head Inn, Beach Street. Deceased had lodged with him about two months. When he was ashore he had meals with them. He had no monetary troubles. He was a healthy man. Witness knew he had attended a funeral on Thursday, and under the circumstances he did not seem depressed. On Friday he went to sea, and came back early on Saturday morning. He had his dinner at the Inn that day, and a cup of tea in the afternoon. He was a man of sober habits. Witness saw deceased last time on Saturday evening between half past nine and half past ten in the bar. He then said he was going out. He seemed very quiet, and told witness he had had to consult a solicitor about his son`s affairs. Witness`s daughter told him that deceased had gone to bed. Deceased shared his bedroom with two other men, Spearpoint and Bailey. Witness went to bed on Saturday about twelve o`clock. His bedroom was on the same floor as that of deceased. He heard no sound during the night. On Sunday morning his wife got up about seven o`clock, and just before nine o`clock she came in to him and said “There is something happened to old Jack”. Witness said “What do you mean?” She said “Do come; I believe he has hung himself”. Witness then went into the adjoining room, and found deceased was on the ground in a sitting position at the foot of the bedstead occupied by the other two men. Deceased`s body was not more than a foot from the floor. Round his neck was the handkerchief produced. He was only attired in his shirt. The handkerchief was twisted round the knob of the bedstead twice, and the ends came down and were tied round deceased`s neck. His face was discoloured and the eyes were shut. The hands were clasping the rail at the foot of the bed. Witness cut the handkerchief and lowered the body down, and sent for a constable and a doctor. Deceased used to wear a handkerchief similar to the one produced.

Elizabeth Tame, wife of the last witness, said she saw the deceased the last time on Saturday at half past nine. She got up about seven o`clock on Sunday morning, and said “Good morning” to Spearpoint and Bailey. Shortly after witness went to deceased`s bedroom with a letter. She opened the door and looked round the room and saw deceased in a sitting posture near the bedstead. Witness then communicated with her husband.

John Spearpoint, a fisherman, said on Saturday he was sharing a room at the Queen`s Head with deceased and Bailey. He and Bailey had one bed. They went to bed at half past ten. Deceased came to bed afterwards, but witness had gone to sleep. He had seen him in the bar previously. About five o`clock witness woke up and heard a mumble, but took no notice and went to sleep again. At a quarter to eight witness woke up again and called Bailey. While he was waiting for Bailey, deceased mumbled something, and deceased spoke to him, but he made no answer. Bailey and he then went downstairs and went out for about an hour and a half. When they came back they heard what had happened, and went to the police station and gave all the information they could.

Frederick Bailey, a fisherman, corroborated Spearpoint`s evidence.

P.C. Harry Johnson said on Sunday at nine o`clock, from information received, he went to the Queen`s Head, and on the first floor in a back room he saw the body of the deceased. Mr. Tame accompanied witness and showed him the handkerchief produced. Deceased was lying on the floor. His face was a dark blue, the eyes were closed, and there was a slight impression round the neck. His body was warm, and witness applied artificial respiration. Dr. Gilbert arrived some ten minutes afterwards. There were no signs of a struggle.

Dr. Thornton Gilbert said about 9.30 a.m. on Sunday last he was called to the Queen`s Head Inn, where he found the deceased lying on the floor. A police constable was applying artificial respiration. There was no response, and he found the man was dead. The body was cooling down, and witness thought deceased had been dead about twenty minutes. There was a discolouration at the back of the neck, and a slight mark of constriction on the left side of the neck. The body was well nourished. In witness`s opinion death was due to strangulation.

The jury returned a verdict of “Suicide during temporary insanity”.

Folkestone Herald 6-1-1906

Inquest

An enquiry was held at the Town Hall on Monday afternoon by the Borough Coroner (Mr. G.W. Haines), with regard to the death of George Brann, a fisherman, who was found hanging in his bedroom at the Queen`s Head Inn on Sunday morning.

John Charles Haig stated that he identified the body as that of Brann. As far as he knew the deceased would have been 68 that day. He was a fisherman, and went out fishing up till the previous Thursday morning. On Saturday evening, between 6 and 6.30 he last saw the deceased alive. Witness was his son-in-law. Deceased had always been a hearty man, and of a very cheerful disposition. The previous week he noticed that deceased was rather quiet. On Thursday last the deceased attended the funeral of his son. He was troubled that a son in London did not come down to the funeral. On Saturday the deceased was at his house between six and seven. Witness asked him to have some tea, but he declined. This rather surprised his, as deceased was such a hearty man. He said he had had a good dinner, and did not want anything. When he went he said “Good night, and God bless you”. Witness did not notice it then, but he afterwards thought it was unusual. He remembered, too, that he did not take much interest in the children as he usually did. Deceased was in good work.

Walter Thomas Tame, landlord of the Queen`s Head, Beach Street, stated that the deceased had lodged with him for about a couple of months. He slept alone usually, but occasionally others shared the room with him. He was a man of exceptionally strong constitution, witness thought, and never complained of anything. On Friday evening he saw the deceased, and, considering that he had been to a funeral, he was in very good spirits. It did not seem to have any effect upon him. Deceased went to sea on Friday, and came back on Saturday at about 4 a.m. Deceased, he thought, had his dinner at the house, and also a cup of tea then. He was generally a temperate man, having a glass or two occasionally. Witness last saw him between nine and ten p.m. on Saturday, when deceased said “Well, old chap, I am going round the other side”, intimating that he was going to bed. Witness remarked to his wife that deceased was remarkably quiet. Deceased had said he would consult a solicitor with regard to his son`s affairs. His other son`s absence from the funeral seemed to trouble him. At about eleven o`clock witness`s daughter wished deceased good night. Two young men named Bailey and Spearpoint shared the room with deceased that night. They were not regular lodgers. On Saturday he went to bed at 11.45, on the same floor, in an adjoining room. On Sunday morning his wife got up about seven o`clock, and at about 9 she came to him and said “There`s something happened to old Jack”, meaning the deceased. Witness said “What`s the matter?”, and she said “Do come; I think he`s hung himself”. He then went into the adjoining room. No-one was in there save the deceased, who was on the ground in a sitting position at the foot of the bedstead. His feet and legs were stretched out along the floor, and the body was about a foot from the floor. A handkerchief was round his neck. He was attired in his shirt only. A handkerchief was twined round the knob of the bed twice, and tied in a knot round the man`s neck. The knot was near the deceased`s ear, underneath the jaw. He thought the handkerchief was tight. Deceased`s eyes were shut, and his face was discoloured and black. His hands were clasping the rail at the foot of the bed. Witness tried to untie the knot, but failed, and so he cut it. He then told his wife to send for a doctor and a constable. At times he had seen the deceased with a similar coloured handkerchief. There was no doubt that this was the same. It struck him as peculiar that the deceased`s hands were in the position they were.

At the request of the Coroner, witness intimated the position of the deceased when found. Continuing, he said that the deceased was leaning back as if falling.

Elizabeth Tame, the wife of the last witness, stated that on Sunday morning she got up early, and saw the boys, Bailey and Spearpoint, go out. That was about eight o`clock. They said they were coming back that night, but they did not come back. She thought that was because the man was dead. After the two young men had gone the postman came with a letter. From what he said she went up to ask deceased if it was the eldest or youngest son who was dead. She went into his room and saw him, apparently hanging from the bed. She then called her husband.

John Spearpoint stated that he was a fisherman, and generally stopped on the boat, No. 59, Folkestone. On Saturday last he was sharing a room with the deceased, whom he knew very well. Frederick Bailey was also there. He and Bailey occupied one bed, and Brann the other. He went to bed with Bailey at about 10.30, and shortly afterwards went to sleep. He did not hear deceased go to bed. At about 5 a.m. he heard a rumbling noise, and thought it was Brann mumbling to himself. He went to sleep, and awoke again about 7.45. After dressing, he said “What`s the matter, old Jack”?”, but Brann rolled over the other side, and made no answer. He waited for Bailey, and after wishing Mrs. Tame “Good morning”, they went out at 8.10. They were gone about an hour and a half, and he heard that a policeman wanted him and Bailey. They looked for the policeman, and afterwards found him and went to the police station, there giving all the information they knew.

Frederick Bailey stated that he worked on the same boat as the other witness. He corroborated Spearpoint`s evidence.

P.C. H. Johnson stated that on Sunday last, at 9 o`clock, he was spoken to by a lad in Tontine Street, and afterwards went to the Queen`s Head, where he saw the body of the deceased lying on the floor. Mr. Tame was in the room, and showed him the handkerchief. The face of the deceased was of a dark blue, his eyes were closed, and there was a slight impression round the back of the neck. The body was warm, and witness commenced artificial respiration and sent for a doctor. Dr. Gilbert arrived about ten minutes afterwards. The furniture was in its place, and the room did not appear to be the scene of any struggle or disturbance.

Dr. Gilbert stated that on Sunday last, at about 9.30, he saw the deceased lying on the floor, and the police constable carrying out artificial respiration. As there was no response to this he examined the body, and found the man to be dead. There was a discolouration on the back of the neck, and a slight mark of constriction on the left side. The cause of death was strangulation. It would be possible for the deceased to strangle himself in the position he was in. The handkerchief went round the neck only once, he would say. He thought the deceased had tied himself to the bed tightly in the first place, and that his own struggling afterwards loosened the handkerchief.

The jury returned a verdict of “Suicide during temporary insanity”.

Folkestone Daily News 16-3-1906

Friday, March 16th: Before Messrs. E.T. Ward and T. Ames.

George Thomas Boreham pleaded Guilty to being drunk, that is, he admitted he had “had a little”.

P.C. Butcher stated that he was on duty in Beach Street at 10 o`clock on the previous evening when the prisoner came out of the Queen`s Head. Seeing he was drunk, witness requested him to go home. He refused and put himself in a fighting attitude. As he still refused to go away and made use of obscene language, with the assistance of P.C. Sales he was conveyed to the police station and charged.

In reply to the Chairman, the constable said he believed prisoner was served with one ½ pint of beer in the Queen`s Head.

The accused said that when he came out of the Queen`s Head he saw two policemen. One of them (previous witness), he alleged, pushed him. He also asserted that it was the constable who used the bad language referred to.

Prisoner, who was described as a Rye fisherman, was fined 2s. 6d.with 4s. 6d. costs, or seven days` hard labour.

The fine was paid by another fisherman. 

Folkestone Express 24-3-1906

Friday, March 16th: Before E.T. Ward and T. Ames Esqs.

George Thomas Boreham, a Rye fisherman, was charged with being drunk and disorderly in Beach Street the previous evening.

P.C. Butcher said at eleven o`clock the previous night, when on duty in Beach Street, he saw the prisoner come out of the Queen`s Head public house. He was drunk, and as he would not go away, witness told him to do so. Boreham then put himself in a fighting attitude, and eventually began to pull off his coat. As he would not go away, witness, with the assistance of P.C. Sales, took him into custody.

In answer to the Chairman, witness said the landlord of the public house told him he had served the prisoner with half a pint of beer.

Boreham said the constable shoved him, and also used a filthy expression to him.

Fined 2s. 6d. and 4s. 6d. costs, the money being paid by one of his friends.
 
Folkestone Daily News 28-4-1906

Saturday, April 28th: Before Messrs. W.G. Herbert and R.J. Linton.

Henry Todd was charged with being drunk on licensed premises. He pleaded Not Guilty.

P.C. Sales said he saw the defendant in High Street on the 19th about 1.40. He was drunk. Later he saw him go into the Queen`s Head. Witness went in and told the landlord not to serve him as he was drunk. Afterwards he left the house.

P.S. Osborne spoke to seeing the defendant in Dover Street at 3.00 on the afternoon in question. He was drunk and shouting “Primroses a penny all the large handful”.

Defendant said he had been sent out with primroses. He went into the West Cliff because it was raining, and did not have more than two pints of beer. He should reckon that if he had been shouting as described he would have been stopped.

Geo. Pilcher said he went down the street with defendant on the day in question. They went into the Queen`s Head. P.C. Sales came in as he had stated. Todd was not drunk. He went into the Hope Inn and the landlord served him, so he could not have been drunk.

The Chief Constable said the defendant was before the Bench on the 9th of April, charged with being drunk and disorderly, and fined.

The Chairman said they considered the case fully proved, and fined defendant 5s. with 11s. costs, or 7 days` hard labour.

A request for time to pay was refused.
 
Folkestone Express 5-5-1906

Saturday, April 28th: Before W.G. Herbert and R.J. Linton Esqs.

Henry Todd was charged with being drunk on licensed premises. He pleaded Not Guilty.

P.C. Sales said about 1.40 on the afternoon of April 19th he saw defendant in High Street. He was drunk. Shortly afterwards witness saw Todd go into the Queen`s Head public house. Witness went in too, and told the landlord not to serve Todd. The landlord refused to serve him, and told him to leave the house. Witness told defendant he should report him for a summons, and defendant made no reply.

P.S. Osborne said shortly after three o`clock on the afternoon in question, he saw defendant in Dover Street. He was carrying a basket containing primroses, and shouting “Primroses”, etc., at the top of his voice. He was reeling as he came up the street. Witness saw he was drunk.

George Pitcher said Todd was not drunk.

The Chief Constable said defendant had been before the Magistrates once that year, when he was fined 2s. 6d. and costs for being drunk and disorderly.

Todd was fined 5s. and 11s. costs, or seven days`. He went below.

Folkestone Herald 5-5-1906

Saturday, April 28th: Before Alderman W.G. Herbert and Mr. R.J. Linton.

Henry Todd was summoned for being drunk on licensed premises.

P.C. Sales stated that at 1.40 p.m. on the 19th inst. he saw the defendant in the High Street, drunk. Shortly afterwards he saw him go into the Queen`s Head. Witness told the landlord not to serve him, and he took the defendant`s name and address.

P.S. Osborne stated that shortly after three o`clock on the afternoon in question he saw the defendant in Dover Street with a basket of primroses, which he was showing for sale. He was reeling, and witness saw that he was drunk. He stopped and spoke to a man, and when he started off again he reeled, caught his toe in the footpath, and fell against a house.

Defendant said he had been out with primroses, and came down from the West Cliff. If he was drunk, surely somebody else would have taken his name before he got down so far. He called George Pitcher as a witness.

Geo. Pitcher stated that he went down to the Queen`s Head on the day in question with Todd, who on the way shouted “Primroses”. When they went in the house Sales followed them and took Todd`s name, although he was not drunk.

The Chief Constable stated that defendant had been before the Court for being drunk and disorderly on the 9th April.

A fine of 5s. and 11s. costs was imposed, or in default 7 days`.

Defendant asked for time to pay, but this was refused.

Folkestone Express 11-8-1906

Tuesday, August 7th: Before Alderman Spurgen, Lieut. Colonel Fynmore, and T. Ames Esq.

William Bradshaw was charged with being drunk and disorderly in Beach Street the previous night. He admitted the offence.

P.C. Sales said he was in Beach Street at 8.30 p.m., when he saw the prisoner, who was drunk, fighting with another man. He was also flourishing a stick and attempting to smash the windows of the Queen`s Head public house.

Prisoner said he did not try to smash any windows.

Fined 2s. 6d. and 4s. 6d. costs, or seven days` hard labour in default.

Folkestone Herald 11-8-1906

Tuesday, August 7th: Before Alderman G. Spurgen, Councillor R.J. Fynmore, and T. Ames Esq.

William Bradshaw was charged with being drunk and disorderly in Beach Street the previous evening.

P.C. Sales stated that at 8.30 the previous evening he saw prisoner in Beach Street, drunk and fighting with another man, also attempting to smash a window of the King`s Head (sic) public house. Prisoner was using filthy language.

Accused denied that he tried to smash the windows.

In default of paying a fine of 2s. 6d. and 4s. 6d. costs, Bradshaw was sentenced to seven days` hard labour.

Folkestone Daily News 5-2-1907

Annual Licensing Sessions

Tuesday, February 5th: Before Messrs. Ward, Hamilton, Linton, Fynmore, Herbert, Pursey, and Carpenter. Mr. Stainer, Mr. Wells, and Mr. Boyd, the two latter being the new Magistrates, occupied seats on the Bench, but did not adjudicate.

The Chief Constable read his report as to the number of houses and convictions, which showed a decrease last year. He recommended that the Bench should still continue to take advantage of the Act and refer some of the licences to the Compensation Committee at the Canterbury Quarter Sessions. He then went on to say that although he did not oppose the renewal of any licences on the ground of misconduct, there had been five convictions during the last year, and he had had to warn one licence holder against allowing betting and taking in slips. He also wished to caution all licence holders that these practices would not be allowed on any occasion, and after giving this public warning he should take steps to detect and prosecute for any such offences.

The Chairman, before commencing, stated that the Licensing Bench had visited a large number of houses, and they had seen in various places automatic machines, into which people put pennies, and in some instances got their penny back or a cigar, &c. The having of these machines was practically permitting gambling, and it had been decided that they were illegal. Every licence hiolder must understand that they were to be immediately removed, otherwise they would be prosecuted for having them. As regards the automatic musical boxes, gramophones, &c., if licensed victuallers had them on their premises, they were to be used in such a way as not to be a nuisance to the neighbourhood, and if complaints were made they would have to be removed.

The renewal licences for the Black Bull Hotel, the Railway Inn, the Chequers, Queen`s Head, Channel Inn, Alexandra Tavern, Perseverance, and Railway Hotel at Shorncliffe, were adjourned  till the 4th March, some on account of convictions, and some for the consideration of closing them under the Licensing Act. The other applications were granted, a full report of which will appear in our next issue.

Folkestone Express 9-2-1907

Annual Licensing Sessions

Wednesday, February 6th: Before E.T. Ward Esq., W.G. Herbert, R.J. Linton, C.J. Pursey and W.C. Carpenter Esqs., Lieut. Col. Fynmore, and Lieut. Col. Hamilton.

The Chief Constable read his report as follows:

Chief Constable`s Office, Folkestone, 6th February, 1907.

Gentlemen, I have the honour to report that there are at present within your jurisdiction 128 places licensed for the sale by retail of intoxicating liquors, viz.:- Full licences, 80; beer “on”, 9; beer “off”, 6; beer and spirit dealers, 14; grocers, 12; chemists, 4; confectioners, 3; total 128. This gives an average, according to the census of 1901, of one licence to every 239 persons, or one “on” licence to every 344 persons. This is a reduction of 8 licences as compared with the return presented to you last year, as the renewal of 3 “off” licences was not applied for at the last annual licensing meeting, and at the adjourned licensing meeting the renewal of one full licence was refused on the ground that the premises had been ill-conducted, and four other full licences were referred to the Compensation Committee for East Kent on the ground of redundancy. These four licences were subsequently refused by the Compensation Committee, and after payment of compensation, the premises were closed on 31st December last. Since the last annual licensing meeting 22 of the licences have been transferred, viz:- Full licences, 15; beer “on”, 5; off licences, 2; total 22. During the year three occasional licences have been granted by the justices for the sale of intoxicating liquors on premises not ordinarily licensed for such sale, and thirty extensions of the ordinary time of closing have been granted to licence holders when balls, dinners, etc., were being held on their premises. During the year ended 31st December last, 131 persons (106 males and 25 females) were proceeded against for drunkenness. 114 were convicted and 17 discharged. This, it is most satisfactory to find, is a decrease of no less than 52 persons proceeded against as compared with the preceding year, when 164 were convicted and 19 discharged. Six of the licence holders have been proceeded against, and five of them convicted, for the following offences: Selling adulterated whiskey, 1; permitting drunkenness, 1; delivering beer to a child in unsealed vessels, 2; supplying drink to a constable when on duty, 1; total, 5. In the latter case notice of appeal against the conviction has been given by the licensee. Eleven clubs where intoxicating liquor is sold are registered in accordance with the Act of 1902. There are 16 places licensed for music and dancing, and two for public billiard playing. I offer no objection to the renewal of any of the present licences on the ground of misconduct, the houses generally having been conducted during the past year in a satisfactory manner, but on one occasion one of the licence holders was cautioned (as the evidence was insufficient to justify a prosecution) for receiving slips and money relating to betting, which practice he immediately discontinued, bit I desire to intimate to all the licence holders that if in future any such practice is allowed, or any illegal gaming whatever is permitted on their premises, I shall take such steps as may be necessary to detect and prosecute the offenders. I beg to submit a plan showing the situation of all “on” licensed premises within the congested area, which I have marked on the plan, and would respectfully suggest that the Committee again avail themselves of the powers given by the Licensing Act, 1904, and refer the renewal of some of the licences within this area to the Compensation Committee to deal with under the Act. Within this area there are 920 houses, with a population approximately of 4,600, with 37 “on” licensed houses and 8 other licences, giving a proportion of one licence to every 20 houses or every 102 persons, and one “on” licence to every 24 houses or every 124 persons. This number of licences I consider excessive for the requirements of the neighbourhood. I have received notices from eight persons of their intention to apply at these sessions for the following new licences, viz.,:- Full licence 1; beer off 1; cider and sweets off 1; wine off 3; music, etc., 2; total 8.

I am, Gentlemen, your obedient servant, H. Reeve, Chief Constable.

The Chairman said the report seemed to be highly satisfactory. The Magistrates were very pleased to see the diminution in the number of cases of drunkenness brought before the Bench. One point about the report he wanted to make a remark upon, and that was the prevalence of gaming in public houses. In several houses the Committee visited they saw automatic machines, in which customers placed pennies and pulled a trigger. Occasionally they got something out for their pennies. That was gaming. It had been decided to be illegal, and they warned all licence holders that they would be watched, and that the machines would not be allowed, and proceedings would be taken against the offending publicans, whose licences would be jeopardised next year. There was one other point of a similar nature with regard to musical instruments, which were reported to be a great nuisance. They warned all licence holders to be careful not to create a nuisance with those pianos and other instruments, which were now very common indeed in public houses.

The following houses were ordered to be opposed as not required: The Channel Inn, High Street; the Queen`s Head, Beach Street; the Railway Tavern (sic), Beach Street; the Chequers, Seagate Street; and the Perseverance, Dover Street.

Folkestone Herald 9-2-1907

Annual Licensing Sessions

Wednesday, February 6th: Before Mr. E.T. Ward, Alderman W.G. Herbert, Lieut. Colonel Hamilton, Major Leggett, Councillor W.C. Carpenter, and Messrs. R.J. Fynmore, R.J. Linton, and C.J. Pursey

The Chief Constable presented his annual report (for details see Folkestone Express report).

The Chairman: The report seems to be very satisfactory, and we are very glad to see the diminution in the number of cases of drunkenness brought before the Bench. One point about the report I should like to make a remark upon, and that is about gambling in public houses. In every house we have visited we saw automatic machines in which you put a penny, pulled a trigger, and occasionally you get something out, either your penny back, or a card for a cigar. That is gaming, and it has been decided as illegal, and we warn all licence holders who have these machines that they must be removed or otherwise proceedings will be taken against them for gaming, and their licences may be in jeopardy next year. There is another thing. In the same way, with regard to these musical instruments, which have been reported to the Bench as a great nuisance, we warn all the licence holders to be careful, and not create nuisances with these machines.

The licences of the Channel, High Street, the Queen`s Head, Beach Street, the Railway Inn, Beach Street, the Chequers, Seagate Street, and the Perseverance, Dover Street, were not renewed, notice of opposition being given on the ground of redundancy.

Folkestone Daily News 4-3-1907


Adjourned Licensing Sessions

Monday, March 4th: Before Messrs. Ward, Fynmore, Linton, Boyd, Herbert, Pursey, Carpenter, Leggett, and Hamilton.

There were seven licences to be considered: The Black Bull, Railway Tavern (sic), Railway Hotel, Perseverance, Chequers, Channel Inn, and Queen`s Head.

The Queen`s Head

The Chief Constable opposed on similar grounds to the previous case.

Mr. De Wet, who appeared for the brewer and tenant, admitted the notice subject to examination.

The Chief Constable gave details of structure, showing limited accommodation. There were 26 houses within 100 yards radius. In his opinion the house was one of the least suitable for licensed premises.

Mr. Mowll could hardly think that the Bench had made up their minds. It was doing the largest trade of any licence that had been opposed.

Inspector Burniston corroborated, and added that the house was principally used by hawkers and fishermen, and people who lived in common lodging houses.

Mr. De Wet called Mr. Ernest Hands, from Nalder and Collyer`s, who deposed that the trade of the house in beer and spirits for three years had been:- 1904, 197½ barrels, 151 dozen ginger beer, 189 gallons of spirits; 1905, 187¾ barrels, 198 dozen ginger beer, 188 gallons of spirits; 1906, 239½ barrels, 330 dozen ginger beer, 196 gallons of spirits. The trade was fairly average all the year round.

Mr. Walter Tame deposed that he paid £305 to go into the Queen`s Head. He paid £40 per year rent. He did a good general run of public trade, and had never been convicted. He was quite satisfied with the trade, but if he had got the Morehall licence he might have done better. He had made eight or nine applications to change the licence. There was more drinking going on, but if his house was closed his customers would not go thirsty.

The case was referred to the Licensing Committee.

Folkestone Express 9-3-1907

Adjourned Licensing Sessions

The adjourned licensing sessions were held on Monday at the Police Court, when the principal business to be considered was whether or not the five licences should be referred to the East Kent Licensing Committee for compensation. The Licensing Justices on the Bench were E.T. Ward Esq., Lieut. Col. Fynmore, Lieut. Col. Hamilton, W.G. Herbert, C.J. Pursey, R.J. Linton and W.C. Carpenter Esqs., while other justices present were Major Leggett, Mr. G. Boyd, and Mr. J. Stainer.

The last house for consideration was the Queen`s Head, Beach Street.

Mr. De Wet appeared on behalf of the tenant and landlords.

The Chief Constable stated that notice of opposition had been served upon the tenant and landlords of the house, on the ground that the licence was not needed for the requirements of the neighbourhood. The house was situated in Beach Street. Walter Tom Tame, who obtained the transfer of the licence on August 7th, 1889, was the tenant. The registered owners were Messrs. Nalder and Collyer, of Croydon. The rateable value of the house was £32. The house adjoined the Wonder Tavern, and the back-way was directly opposite the South Foreland. The rateable value of the Wonder Tavern, although only a beerhouse, was £36, while that of the South Foreland was £72. There were twenty four houses in Beach Street, and six of them were licensed houses. The entrance was at the back of the house. The door opened into a passageway. The serving window overlooked the bar. There was also a tap room, which was 9 ft. 9 in. by 9 ft. 10 in., and about 7 ft. 6 in. high which opened from the passage. There was really no light to that room except that obtained from the window overlooking the front bar. Within a radius of 150 yards there were twenty six other on licensed houses. There was no yard to the premises, and the whole of the accommodation of the premises was inferior to the immediate adjoining houses. He considered, with the exception of the Railway Inn, those premises were less suitable than any of the licensed premises. The majority of the customers appeared to be men working at the fish market and employed about the fish market, and a few working on the Harbour. He considered the licence to be unnecessary for the needs of the neighbourhood, and if the house was closed there would still be ample accommodation for them to be supplied at the remaining houses.

The Justices decided to refer the house to the Licensing Committee.
 
Folkestone Herald 9-3-1907

Adjourned Licensing Sessions

Monday, March 4th: Before Mr. E.T. Ward, Alderman W.G. Herbert, Lieut. Colonel Hamilton, Councillors W.C. Carpenter and G. Boyd, and Messrs. R.J. Fynmore, C.J. Pursey, R.J. Linton, and J. Stainer.

The Queen`s Head

The last case was that of the Queen`s Head, Beach Street, the ground of opposition being the same as in the previous case (that the house was not needed).

Mr. De Wet appeared for the tenants and owners.

The Chief Constable said that the licensee was Walter Tom Tame, who obtained the licence in 1889. The owners were Messrs. Nalder and Collyer. The house adjoined the Wonder Tavern, and directly opposite the back entrance was the South Foreland. Its rateable value was £32, while that of the Wonder, which was only a beerhouse, was £36, and the South Foreland £72. There were 24 houses in Beach Street, six of which were on licensed houses. There were two entrances to the house on one side, and one on the other. The two entrances at the front entered the public bar. At the entrance at the back of the house the door opened into a passageway, which had a swing window opening into the bar. There was also a tap room opening from that passage, which was 9 ft. 9 in. by 9 ft. 10 in., and about 7 ft. 6 in. high. Witness drew the particular attention of the Bench to the facts as to that room, seeing that there was only borrowed light.

Mr. De Wet took exception to this point, as it had to do with structural manners, which were not included in the notice of opposition.

Witness added that within a radius of 150 yards there were 26 other on licensed houses. The accommodation for the licensee was upstairs. The whole house was inferior to the immediately adjoining premises, and he considered that, with the exception of the Railway Inn, which he dealt with that morning, the premises were the least suitable of any in Beach Street for the purpose of a licensed house. The majority of the customers appeared to be employed about the Fishmarket, and a few men at the Harbour. He considered the licence to be unnecessary, and that if the house was closed there would be ample accommodation at the other houses.

Cross-examined by Mr. De Wet: In the congested area, not one sixth of the borough was included. During the eighteen years that Mr. Tame had held the house he had not been convicted, nor had there been a conviction against a tenant of the house since 1883.

Detective Sergeant Burniston corroborated. The landlord, he said, did a fairly good trade. The majority of his customers were hawkers and fishermen. There were some residents who used the house.

Mr. Ernest Hand, collector for Messrs. Nalder and Collyer, stated that he had inspected the books in connection with the beer supplied to the Queen`s Head. He had taken the returns for three years, as that was the custom of the Authorities in his district. The three years were the lean years of the trade. In 1904, 197¼ barrels were sold, in 1905 187 3/8 barrels were disposed of, and in 1906, 239½ barrels were sold. The bottled trade for the respective years was 150 doz., 198 doz., and 330 doz., showing an increase each year. As to wines and spirits, the figures were 190, 189, and 196 gallons respectively. The trade was a good steady one all the year round, and there was very little difference in it.

The Chief Constable: And you call that a good trade?

Witness: Yes.

The Chief Constable: And yet you wanted to surrender that and give another away for the one at Morehall, didn`t you? (Laughter)

Mr. Walter Tom Tame gave evidence as to the trade. He said he paid £40 a year rent. He had a good general round of public trade, and he had had tradespeople in the immediate neighbourhood who were customers for several years. He was satisfied with his trade, though he thought if he had been able to get to Morehall it would have been a better trade.

Cross-examined: He had made eight or nine applications for the transfer of the licence of the Queen`s Head. He thought the people there were drinking more than they did formerly. He had more customers now. He was certain that if his house was closed his customers would not go thirsty. (Laughter)

The Bench decided to refer the licence to the East Kent Committee.

Folkestone Express 15-6-1907

Inquest

The circumstances surrounding the death of Charles Foster, a Rye fisherman, will always remain to a certain extent a mystery. Early on Friday morning he was found severely injured on the railway line leading from the Junction to the Harbour Stations, almost immediately below the Radnor Bridge. His injuries, however, were plainly not the result of a railway accident, and there was hardly any doubt that they were caused by a fall from a good height. He was taken to the Victoria Hospital, where he succumbed several hours after without becoming conscious. The inquest was held on Saturday afternoon at the Town Hall, the Borough Coroner (Mr. G.W. Haines) conducting the enquiry, but nothing of a definite nature came to light as to how the unfortunate man came to fall off the bridge.

John Henry Baker, mate of the fishing boat No. 48, registered at Rye, said he identified the body as that of Charles Foster, who resided at Church Square, Rye, and who was master of the fishing lugger, the Florence, No. 48, registered at Rye. On Thursday evening the boat was lying in Folkestone Harbour. He saw the deceased, who was 27 years of age, at seven o`clock, when they went aboard after they had been shopping. He left the deceased on board at eight o`clock, and the deceased said he was going ashore. Foster told him to have steam ready by eleven o`clock. When he left the deceased he was sober, but he had had a glass or two.

Mr. Blake, solicitor, said he represented Mr. Kingsford Read, the owner of the smack, and he would like to ask the witness whether the deceased had any reason to go up to the bridge in the course of his work.

The Coroner: I do not think you need trouble with that question at this enquiry.

Mr. Blake: Very well.

George Knight, of 26, Greenfield Road, said he was an engine driver in the employ of the S.E. and C.R. Company. On Friday morning, about four o`clock, he was driving his engine, with a bank brake attached, from the Junction to the Harbour, and just before coming to Radnor Bridge he noticed something fifty yards in front of his engine on the Harbour side of the crossing, lying about two feet from the outside rail. When he got closer to it he saw it was the body of a man. The body was quite clear of the rails, and he ran past it. They then applied the brakes and got down. On going to the man, he found he was alive, but unconscious. His mate went for a police constable, and he returned with P.C. Lawrence. The body was never touched from the first time he saw it.

P.C. Lawrence said on Friday morning, about half past four, from information received, he went to the Tram Road, and the last witness pointed out to him the body of a man, who was lying about two feet clear of the down rails. The body was about three feet on the Harbour side of the bridge. The man was unconscious, lying on his stomach, and bleeding from the nose and ears. He at once went for Dr. Gilbert and sent for the stretcher. Dr. Gilbert came immediately, and under his directions he removed the body to the hospital. When the doctor arrived they had got the man on the stretcher. The sleeper was marked with blood just where the man`s head was resting.

P.S. Osborne said on Friday morning, just after six o`clock, he went to Radnor Bridge and examined it. On the Harbour side of the bridge at the end nearest the East Cliff, there were some marks on the outside of the bridge, as if someone had climbed over. The marks appeared to have been caused by the toe, the moss being scraped from the wall, and on a ledge about four or five feet down there was the impression of a foot in grit. The ledge was about 10 inches wide. The grit appeared to be the same as that in the roadway. There had been a lot of rain during the night. The marks were almost perpendicular with the place where the man was found. On one of the chains of the rails he found a piece of hair.

Dr. Thornton Gilbert said on Friday morning, at twenty past four, he was called by the police to the crossing, and on his arrival he found they had got the body on the ambulance. He examined the body, which was that of an unconscious man. He found an abrasion on the face, a cut over the right eye, and blood oozing from the nose and ear. The jaw was broken in three places, and the right thigh was also broken. Having dressed the wound on the face, he ordered the man`s removal to the hospital. He saw the man again in the hospital and he was dying. The injuries were such as would be caused by a fall from a height. He should not think there were any marks which could have been caused in a brawl. The distance from the arch of the bridge to the ground was 28 feet. The man, who smelt slightly of alcohol, but not much, might have been near the rails half an hour, the blood on his face having commenced to coagulate. It was very difficult to give an accurate idea of how long he had been lying on the railway.

Dr. Cecil Hadley, the house surgeon at the Victoria Hospital, said on Friday morning, at five o`clock, the deceased was brought into the Hospital suffering from a fracture of the right thigh, fracture of the jaw, and fracture of the base of the skull. Deceased died at one o`clock in the afternoon from the fracture of the base of the skull. The injuries were such as would be received from a fall of 28 feet. They were not of such a character as would have been received in a brawl.

John Allen, 3, Kenley Bridge Road, Lower Sydenham, said he was a bricklayer. On Thursday evening last he was going across the Radnor bridge, about 11.30, from Dover Road, and saw a man on it nearest the Warren end. The man, who appeared to be a fisherman, was leaning over the bridge, looking down on the rails below. When he passed the man he said to him “It is time you were aboard”, and he replied “I will ---- well go when I like”. Witness then passed on. He could not tell from the man`s voice whether he was drunk or sober.

Mrs. Bertha Fagg, who offered to give evidence, said she lived at 5, Fenchurch Street. She was a widow. She knew the deceased as “Shamrock”, a name by which he was generally known. On Friday night, about nine o`clock, she left off work and went into the Queen`s Head, where she saw the deceased and several other fishermen with other women. They all came out of there and went into the North Foreland (sic), where they had another drink. She then went with the deceased, in company with other men and women, to the Clarence Inn, where they remained until eleven o`clock. She left the deceased at five minutes past eleven, at the bottom of Dover Road, near St. Michael`s Church. She asked him to go along with her, and then go aboard his boat, but he refused to do so. When he left her he had about a quartern of rum in a bottle with him. Deceased was not sober, and was the worse for drink. She had had no more drink than the other women.

The Coroner, in summing up, said there was nothing to show that the injuries were received in a brawl or from any instrument.

Mr. Hopper, the station-master at the Harbour Station, in reply to the Coroner, said two trains came from the Junction Station during the night – one at 12.35 and the other at 2.08. He had had no report from the drivers as to having seen or struck anyone, and there were no marks on the engines when they were examined the same morning.

The jury held that death was caused by the fall from the bridge, but there was no evidence to show how the deceased got there.

Folkestone Daily News 12-7-1907

Local News

Our readers will remember that at the recent Folkestone Licensing Sessions the Justices decided to refer the licences of the Channel Inn, High Street, the Queen`s Head, Beach Street, the Railway Inn, Beach Street, and the Perseverance, Dover Street, to the County Licensing Authority. At a meeting of this body on Thursday the question came up for consideration, and eventually it was decided to withdraw the licences of the Channel Inn, the Perseverance, and the Queen`s Head. The licence of the Railway Inn was renewed. Compensation will, of course, be granted to the owners and tenants of the closed houses.
 

Folkestone Express 13-7-1907

Local News

At the Folkestone Licensing Sessions the Justices decided to refer four licences to the County Licensing Authority with a view to the houses being closed and compensation given.

The Committee held a meeting on Thursday, and decided to withdraw the licences from the Channel Inn, High Street; the Queen`s Head, Beach Street; and the Perseverance, Dover Street. The fourth licence, that of the Railway Inn, Beach Street, was renewed. The owners and tenants of the others will be compensated.

Folkestone Herald 13-7-1907

Local News

Lord Harris presided at the principal meeting of the East Kent Compensation Authority at Canterbury on Thursday.

The Committee had referred to them twenty four houses, including four from Folkestone, viz., the Channel, High Street; the Railway Inn, Beach Street; the Perseverance, Dover Street; and the Queen`s Head, Beach Street.

The Queen`s Head

Mr. Matthew was for the Justices, and Mr. W. Clarke Hall (instructed by Mr. F. Hall) for the brewers (Messrs. Nalder and Collyer). Mr. De Wet appeared for the tenant (Mr. W.T. Tame).

Chief Constable Reeve stated that this house was in the same street as the Railway Inn. There was another licensed house next door to it of higher rateable value. On three or four different occasions the owners of this house had offered to resign it if the Magistrates would grant them a licence in another part of Folkestone.

In reply to Mr. Hall, witness admitted the present tenant had been in the house 18 years. There were no convictions against him. He did not know he paid £300 to go in.

Mr. De Wet examined the witness at some length on the point of differentiation, and put in a series of photographs and plans to prove his point.

The tenant said he had lived in the house 18 years, and had brought up a family there. During the last three years he had done a barrelage of 624. His spirit trade had also greatly improved.

Mr. Bromley, architect, and Mr. Andrew Kennedy, of 3, Harbour Street, a fishmonger, who had used the house for 29 years, gave evidence in support of the renewal.

The Decision

The Committee decided to renew the Railway Inn, but to refuse those of the Channel, Perseverance, and Queen`s Head.

Folkestone Daily News 17-8-1907

Saturday, August 17th: Before The Mayor, Messrs. Boyd and Ames.

Henry Jones was charged with assaulting Mercy Simpson.

Prosecutrix said she lived in Mill Bay, and on Bank Holiday defendant came to her at the Queen`s Head and struck her. He then dragged her to the ground by her hair.

Ellen Simpson said she was with the prosecutrix on the day in question at the Queen`s Head, and saw the defendant put his knee into Mrs. Simpson`s back.

For the defence, defendant said it was all lies. He did not touch the woman. He asked for an adjournment for a week so that he might bring witnesses to prove what he said.

He was fined 10s. and 10s. costs, or 14 days` hard labour.

Folkestone Express 24-8-1907

Saturday, August 17th: Before The Mayor, T. Ames and G. Boyd Esqs.

Henry Jones was summoned for assaulting Mercy Simpson. He pleaded Not Guilty.

The parties were of the “`Arry and `Arriett” type, and the evidence was very amusing.

The complainant narrated how on August Bank Holiday night she and her husband, who live at 14, Mill Bay, went to the Queen`s Head to have a glass of stout. Defendant, with some women, was there. Witness saw something was “working”, and advised her husband to get out. As they left the bar, witness`s husband, who was leading his father-in-law, who was blind, was set upon, while defendant caught hold of the complainant by the hair and tore her down to the ground. “I have been under the doctor for four days” said Mercy, very impressively, “and I have lived on soda and milk”.

Ellen Simpson said she saw defendant put his knee in complainant`s back.

Defendant denied the assault, but the Magistrates were of opinion that the case had been fully proved and fined him 10s. and 10s. costs.

In default of payment, he was taken below to do fourteen days` hard labour.

Folkestone Herald 24-8-1907

Saturday, August 17th: Before The Mayor, Councillor G. Boyd, and Mr. T. Ames.

Henry Jones was summoned for assaulting Merca Simpson.

Merca Simpson, of 14, Mill Bay, stated that she was the wife of Arthur Simpson, a dealer. On Bank Holiday she was at the Queen`s Head. Defendant, when she went out, threw her to the ground, and put his knee into her back. He pulled her down by the hair. She was under the doctor for four days afterwards, owing to her back being injured.

Ellen Simpson corroborated the last witness`s evidence. She saw the accused put his knee into Mrs. Simpson`s back, and pull her down by the hair.

Defendant stated that what the witnesses had said was “nothing at all but lies”. He wanted the case adjourned for a week, so that he might be able to bring his witnesses at the end of that time. He had never touched the woman.

The Chief Constable said that the defendant had had the summons since the previous Wednesday.

Defendant: I was not at home at that time.

The Mayor said the Bench considered the defendant had committed a gross assault on the poor woman, and a fine of 10s. and 10s. costs, or 14 days` hard labour, would be imposed.

Folkestone Herald 2-5-1908

Advertisement

W.T. Tame has now opened the Queen`s Head, at Beach Street, Folkestone, as Dining, Tea and Coffee Rooms. Close to Sea, Harbour, and Fishmarket. Early morning house. Dinners, Teas, Chops, Steaks, etc., at moderate charges. Accommodation for Cyclists. Mr. Tame would be pleased to see any old friends at any time.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


 
 
 

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