DOVER KENT ARCHIVES

Sort file:- Folkestone, October, 2023.

Page Updated:- Monday, 16 October, 2023.

PUB LIST PUBLIC HOUSES Paul Skelton and Jan Pedersen

Earliest 1729

(Name from)

George Inn

Latest 1986

(Name to)

4 George Lane (Butchers Row Pigot's Directory 1828-29)

Folkestone

George 1978

Above photograph kindly supplied by Jan Pedersen, 1978.

George Inn sign 1980s

George Inn sign 1980s.

Above with thanks from Brian Curtis www.innsignsociety.com

Awaiting reverse picture of Whitbread sign.

George card 1955

Above card issued April 1955. Sign series 5 number 21.

 

I have only recently added Folkestone to this site. The information gathered so far is from "Old Folkestone Pubs" by C H Bishop M.A. Ph.D. and Kevan of http://deadpubs.co.uk/

Any further information or indeed photographs would be appreciated. Please email me at the address below.

 

Kentish Post 29 November 1729.

Stolen or strayed on Saturday the 15th of this instant November, out of the stables of the Widow Pettit at the "George" at Folkestone, two mares, one about 9 years old, the other older; one was a sorrel with a white mane and tail, two white feet, one before, the other behind, with a white slip down the head. The other is a bright bay mare. Whoever gives notice of the said mares, so as they can be had again, to Mr. Edmond Farbrace at Chartham, or to the "George" aforesaid, shall have half a Guinea reward.

Note: Does not appear in More Bastions.

 

Kentish Post 2 August 1746.

To be sold, together or separately, to the highest bidder, at the "George Inn," in Folkestone, on Thursday, the 7th day of August next: A freehold brewhouse, lately new rebuilt, malthouse, millhouse, storehouses, stable in very good repair, and a large yard thereunto belonging, lying at the upper part of the town of Folkestone.

Also a large old and well-accustomed public house called the Sign of The George, with large and good stabling, all in good repair, yard and garden thereunto belonging and adjoining, lying near to the abovesaid brewhouse.

Also another well-accustomed public house, called the Sign of the "Royal George," also in very good repair, lying near the Stade, in Folkestone aforesaid.

Also a large brewing copper, tuns, floats, backs, dray and dray-horse, and other utensils of brewing; a large parcel of stale beer in butts, a parcel of malt, hops, coals, and casks of several sorts, fitting for a common brewer.

N.B. The above estate, utensils, stock-in-trade, &c., may be viewed at any time before the day of sale by applying either to Mr. Inmith Wraight, brewer, in Folkestone aforesaid, or Richard Slodden, attorney at law, in the same town. And if any person be disposed to buy the whole, there are five other well-accustomed public houses now served with beer from the said brewhouse, and, if sold together, may be bought a great pennyworth.

 

Kentish Post 31 January 1747.

Came astray to the "George Inn" in Folkestone on Saturday last, the 24th instant, a little black mare, about five years old: The owner thereof giving an account of the marks and blies, and paying the costs and charges, may have the mare again.

 

Folkestone Sessions Books 1765 – 1779 & 1792 - 1811.

General Sessions 29 April 1765.

Before John Hague (Mayor), Mr. John Jordan, Mr. William Pope, Mr. Thomas Baker, Mr. Thomas Rolfe, and Mr. John Baker.

Neat Ladd, James Francklyn, Chas. Hill, Thos. Wilton, Ambrose Dadd, Ric Boxer, Widow Jeffery, Widow Gittens, Ric Beear, Mary Gittens, and Joseph Trevillon were fined at this Session 3/4 each for having false measures in their houses, which fines were paid into the hands of the Overseers of the Poor.

Neat Ladd, George; James Francklyn, Rose; Charles Hill, White Hart; Thomas Wilton, no record; Ambrose Dadd, Chequers; Richard Boxer, Fishing Boat; Widow Jeffery, Royal George; Widow Gittens, North Foreland; Richard Beear, Three Compasses; Mary Gittens, Privateer; Joseph Trevillon, Crown.

 

Kentish Gazette 4 January 1772.

Advertisement.

Stolen or Strayed; on Sunday, the 29th of December last, from the high road near Sandgate Castle, between Folkestone and Hythe: A dark iron-grey mare, blind of the off eye, and about ten years old, with four white legs, a light coloured tail, a white face with reddish spots, and about fourteen hands high.

Whoever will convey the above-described mare to Mr. Neat Ladd, at the sign of the George, in Folkestone, shall receive One Guinea reward.

 

Kentish Gazette 18 August 1773.

Notice.

Whereas on the 29th of July last two men and two women came to the George in Folkestone, and continued there until the 5th of August instant, leaving behind them an ass, two trumpets, and several other things, this notice, therefore, to them is hereby given, that unless they, within ten days of this date, take away the same, and pay all charges and expenses attending thereon, the whole will be sold to satisfy the same.

Folkestone, August 21st, 1773.

This will not be advertised any more.

 

Kentish Gazette 2 March 1782.

Sunday evening last died Mr. Neat Ladd, who many years kept the sign of the "George," in Folkestone. It is supposed his death was occasioned by the fright he received by the fire at Mr. Pepper's as he has been nearly deprived of his senses ever since that melancholy accident happened.

 

Kentish Gazette 23 March 1782.

Advertisement: All persons who had any demand on Neat Ladd, of Folkestone, victualler, at the time of his decease, and also those who were then indebted to him, are requested to apply to his Executor, William Marsh, of Folkestone, aforesaid, Brewer, in order that the same may forthwith be discharged and paid.

Folkestone, March 21, 1782.

Note: "George."

 

Folkestone Sessions Books 1765 – 1779 & 1792 - 1811

General Sessions 25 April 1808.

Before Thomas Baker (Mayor), Joseph William Knight, John Castle, John Gill, John Bateman and James Major.

The following person was fined for having short measures in their possession, viz.:

John Pilcher 2/6.

 

Folkestone Sessions Books 1765 – 1779 & 1792 - 1811.

General Sessions 23 July 1810.

Before John Bateman (Mayor), John Minter, Thomas Baker, John Castle and James Major.

John Potts and Pilcher Jones appeared and made complaint on oath against John Major and Richard Major (two of the constables of the said town) who had severally refused to execute certain warrants when requested to do so.

Potts, Royal Oak; Jones, George.

 

General Sessions 20 August 1810.

Before John Bateman (Mayor), John Minter, Joseph Sladen, Thomas Baker, John Castle and James Major.

At this meeting John Major appeared according to a summons issued for that purpose on a complaint and information of Pilcher Jones against him for a neglect of duty as constable, when it is ordered that the said John Major be fined 20/- for such neglect of duty and the same to be paid into the hands of the Mayor this day and to be by him applied for the relief of the poor of the said town. Richard Major, another constable, was also summoned to appear this day, but as he was at sea, ordered to stand over till the next adjournment at Sessions.

 

Kentish Chronicle 29 December 1801.

Kentish Gazette 29 December 1801.

On the 22nd of this month, died at the "George Inn," Folkestone, in the 49th year of her age, Mrs. Pilcher, sincerely regretted by her numerous friends and acquaintances.

 

Kentish Gazette 15 October 1811.

Advertisement. George Inn, Folkestone.

John Pilcher begs leave to return grateful thanks to his friends and the public for the favours he has received during thirty years past, and informs them that he has relinquished the above inn in favour of William Wellard, late foreman to Mr. Marsh, Brewer, whom he respectfully recommends to their notice and support.

Folkestone, October 11, 1811.

Note: This is at variance with More Bastions.

 

Kentish Chronicle 15 October 1811.

Advertisement. George Inn, Folkestone.

John Pilcher begs leave to return grateful thanks to his friends and the public for the favours he has received during thirty years past, and informs them that he has relinquished the above inn in favour of William Wellard, late foreman to Mr. Marsh, Brewer, whom he respectfully recommends to their notice and support.

Note: This is at variance with More Bastions.

 

Kentish Gazette 31 December 1811.

Died: Dec. 26th, at Folkestone, aged 63, Mr. John Pilcher, late landlord of the George Inn at that place, which he kept for upwards of 30 years.

Note: This is at variance with More Bastions.

 

Kentish Gazette 10 July 1812.

About seven o'clock on Wednesday evening three Frenchmen, who had broken their parole, were apprehended in the stable loft belonging to the George public house, in Folkestone, by the Lieutenant of the impress service, and were soon afterwards conveyed to Dover, guarded by a detachment of the German Legion. Report says that one bore the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel, and the other two that of Captain. One of them was known by Folkestone man, and on being interrogated confessed himself to be the late Governor of Flushing.

 

From Northampton Mercury, Saturday, July 18, 1812.

POSTSCRIPT. LONDON, July 17.

Wednesday last three Frenchmen, who had broken their parole, were apprehended in the stable loft belonging to the "George" public-house, in Folkestone, by the Lieutenant of the impress service, and were soon afterwards conveyed to Dover, guarded by a detachment of the German Legion. Report says, that one bore the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel, and the other two that of Captain. One of them was known by a Folkestone man, and on being interrogated confessed himself to be the late Governor of Flushing.

 

Kentish Gazette 15 September 1812.

Advertisement.

Freehold Brewhouse, to be disposed of by private contract (with immediate possession).

All that very desirable and substantial well built brewhouse and malthouse, with store-houses, drying oast, stable sheds and other outbuildings; large yard, and pump of exceeding good water; also a large modern built messuage or tenement adjoining the same and communicating therewith, situate and being in the most eligible and convenient part of the town of Folkestone. Also four several old established public houses, situate in Folkestone, and two in Romney Marsh, let to respectable tenants from year to year.

The above mentioned brewhouse, malthouse, messuage and one of the public houses, form a complete square, and surround the yard, with a communication to two of the principal streets in the town. The malthouse is capable of making 1,000 quarters of malt in the season. The brewery is also capable of very great improvement, and is altogether well worth the attention of any person who is desirous of entering into a good trade, The coppers, tuns, coolers, vats, casks, utensils, stock, and fixtures, to be taken at a valuation.

Further particulars, and to treat for the same, enquire (if by letter, post paid) of Mr. Robert Marsh, Coolinge, near Folkestone; Mr. Thomas Nichols, Seabrook; or Mess. Tournay and Janeway, Solicitors, Hythe.

Note: This was the Marsh Brewery, Rendezvous Street, and the pub described was The George.

 

From the Archives as Kew. Ref:- HO. 47/52/34. March 1813.

A report of a John Heath on behalf of William Wellard a Victualler of Folkestone, convicted (with David Puttie the younger) at the Maidstone Lent Assize held March 1813 of receiving, harbouring and maintaining 3 French prisoners between 6th and 8th July 1812 in order to assist their escape from parole in Thame, Oxfordshire.

It said that Wellard was unaware that they were on his premises before the 8th July as they had been hidden there by David Puttie, his landlords son in law.

He was of previously good character and the loss of earnings had brought his wife and 4 children into distress.

Initial sentence 2 yrs in prison-----recommendation- No Mercy."

 

The above was kindly sent to me from Sheila Pierson, who follows up saying below:-

Hello Paul,

I expect that you saw the mistake in the above, and no! it was not me!! which makes a change.

The message really did say it was Lent Assizes but also that the Deed was done in July -- we haven't found out which of the dates are wrong so will have to really check 3 years for anything, but I did find that it was an interesting piece. Haven't been able to get to the Cathedral yet, time slips by so quickly.

Sheila Pearson.

 

Dover Telegraph 12 October 1839.

Marriage: Oct. 3, in London, Mr. Thomas Foord to Mary Alice, only daughter of Mr. George Kember, of the "George Inn," Folkestone.

Note: More Bastions lists James Kember.

 

Kentish Gazette 15 October 1839.

Marriage: Last week, in London, Mr. Thomas Foord, to Mary Alice, only daughter of Mr. James Kember, of the George Inn, Folkestone.

 

Kentish Mercury 15 October 1839. and

Kentish Gazette, 15 October 1839.

MARRIED.

Last week, in London, Mr. Thomas Foord, to Mary Alice, only daughter of Mr. James Kember, of the "George Inn," Folkestone.

 

Kentish Mercury 19 October 1839.

Marriage: Last week, in London, Mr. Thomas Foord, to Mary Alice, only daughter of Mr. James Kember, of the "George Inn," Folkestone.

Note: More Bastions lists George Kember.

 

From the Dover Telegraph and Cinque Ports General Advertiser, Saturday 25 May, 1844. Price 5d.

ANCIENT ORDER OF FORESTERS

On Thursday evening last, the C.R. (Brother H. Hale) and Officers of Court, Kent, No. 1638, (held at the "White Hart Inn," Russell Street, Dover,) assisted by two P.C.Rs, from London, and accompanied by about 50 Brethren and a band of music, proceeded by railway, at half-past 6 o'clock to open a new Court at Folkestone. On their arrival at the station at that place the procession was formed, and they then paraded the town in regular order, and afterwards retired to the "George Inn," George Street, to open Court No. 1732, when eight respectable persons were initiated into the mystic rites and ceremonies of this ancient and honourable order. The officers were then installed in their various positions, Brother E. Tearle being appointed C.R. P.C.R. James Hale, of Court No. 1580, London, gave a brief history of the rise and progress of Forestry, and called on all to unite in promoting the interests of the order. After the business had been disposed of in due form, the company enjoyed a most convivial evening. Various toasts were given, (the healths of the new Brothers, &c) and were duly disposed of. Several excellent songs were sung; and, altogether, the evening passed off in a quiet and respectable manner, each member feeling himself gratified with the whole proceedings.

The Brethren returned to Dover by the half-past Twelve o'clock Mail train.

The peculiar advantages of the Ancient Order of Foresters, arising from the liberal aid afforded to its members in the hour of afflictive dispensation, (as well as from the support derived by the widows of deceased brothers,) may, it would seem, when compared with those of similar institutions, be allowed to bear away the palm of superiority. That the Order is flourishing ample proof could be furnished - the simple statement, however, that upwards of 90 Courts have been formed since the opening of the one in Dover (a period of about 12 months) sufficiently attests the fact; and directing, as it does, its efforts towards the amelioration of the "various forms of human woe" by a mutual helping sympathy, and the promotion of social and hospitable intercourse, its increasing prosperity may be anticipated with some degree of confidence.

 

Kentish Journal and Kentish Advertiser, Tuesday 22 October 1844.

The Auctioneer begs particularly to remind those gentlemen who wish to improve their stocks, that this is an opportunity which seldom occurs in this part of the country, and that Vouchers will be put into the hands of the purchases of each Lot, and the pedigree of each animal will be given in catalogues to be had at the "Star Inn," Maidstone; "Crown," Sevenoaks; "Kentish Hotel," Tunbridge Wells; "White Hart," Ashford; "George," Folkestone; "Star," Lewes; "George," Robertsbridge; "White Hart," Reigate; "Greyhound," Croydon; also of Mr. Stidolph, Dartford, and at the office of the Auctioneer, High Street Tonbridge.

The stock and effects maybe viewed any day previous to the sale.

 

Maidstone Gazette 20 May 1845.

There appeared an error in our Folkestone news of last week: the following is correct. The licence granted to Mr. Richard Hart, deceased, to keep open the "South Foreland," was transferred to Mrs. Mary Hart, his widow and executrix, and the licence granted to Thomas Foord Jun., to keep open the George, was transferred to William Pay.

Note: Earlier date for South Foreland. Neither licensee listed in More Bastions. Earlier date for transfer at George.

 

Kentish Post 10 February 1750.

At Mr. Binfield’s, at the "King’s Arms," in Folkestone, on Tuesday the 13th instant, will be fought a cock-match, between the gentlemen of Folkestone and the gentlemen of Hythe: To shew eleven cocks a side, for four Guineas a battle, and six Guineas the odd battle.

N.B. There will be a close pit, and a very good ordinary on the table between twelve and one o’clock.

 

Maidstone Gazette 11 March 1851.

Advertisement: Folkestone, Kent. To brewers, publicans and others. Mr. J. Messenger has received instructions from the proprietor to sell by auction, at the "King's Arms Inn," Folkestone, on Friday, the 21st inst., at two o'clock,

The freehold and free public house known as the George Inn, situate in the centre of the town of Folkestone, in the immediate neighbourhood of extensive improvements. The premises are in the occupation of Mr. W. Pay, who is under a notice to quit.

For plan and particulars apply at the offices of Mr. J. Messenger, Folkestone and Canterbury, or to Mr. W. Sladden, Solicitor, Folkestone.

 

Kentish Gazette, 18 March 1851.

FOLKESTONE, KENT. To Brewers, Publicans and Others.

MR. J. MESSENGER. Has received instructions from the proprietor to sell by auction at the "King's Arms Inn," Folkestone on Friday the 21st instant, at 2 o'clock.

The freehold and free public house known as the "George Inn," situated in the centre of the town of Folkestone, in the immediate neighbourhood of extensive improvements. The premises are in the occupation of Mr. William Pay, who is under a notice to quit.

For plan and particulars apply to the offices of Mr. J Messenger, Folkestone and Canterbury; or to Mr. W Sladden, solicitor,

Folkestone.

 

Southeastern Gazette 6 June 1854.

Pavement Commissioners, Thursday: It was decided not to allow Mr. Hoad to have a cellar opening in George Lane to a public house he had built there.

 

Southeastern Gazette 19 September 1854.

Annual Licensing Day.

Monday: Before the Mayor, S. Mackie, W. Major, T. Golder, G. Kennicott, and T. Kingsriorth, Esqs.

Before renewing the licenses, the Mayor addressed the publicans, informing them that anew law was passed, explaining to them the particular features of the Act, and hoped they would adhere to it. The whole of the licenses were renewed, with the exception of the "Radnor Inn," "Oddfellow's Arms," and the "Engine Inn." Applications for new licenses were made for the "George," "Gun," and "Belle Vue Tavern;" the first only was granted, on the ground that it was a new house in the room of one pulled down.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 29 December 1855.

Wednesday December 26th :- Before James Tolputt esq., Mayor, William Major esq., and James Kelcey esq.

The following licence was transferred : George, George Lane – from William Boult to Thomas Wilson.

Note: Transfer of licence at George is different to that listed in More Bastions.

 

Southeastern Gazette 1 January 1856.

Petty Sessions, Wednesday.—(Before J. Tolputt, Esq., Mayor, W. Major and J. Kelcey, Esqrs.)

Transfer of Licence.—The George Inn from William Boult to Thomas Wilson.

Note: More Bastions has Boult transferring to William Dullen in 1855, and Dullen to Wilson in 1858.

 

Dover Telegraph 12 June 1858

Death.

June 3, at Folkestone, Maria, the wife of Mr. Wilson, landlord of the George Inn.

 

Folkestone Observer 28 September 1861.

Selling Beer On Unlicenced Premises

Saturday September 21st: Before The Mayor and W. F. Browell Esq.

Thomas Wilson, landlord of the George Inn appeared on summons charging him with selling one pint of beer on the morning of Sunday, September 15th, on premises not licenced for the sale. An application for postponement of the hearing was granted, on defendant paying 8s costs of the day, and 2s for attendance of witnesses.

Tuesday September 24th:- Before the Mayor, W.F. Browell, J. Tolputt, W. Major, W. Bateman esqs., and Capt. Kennicott R.N.

Offence Against The Ale House Act.

Thomas Wilson, of the George Inn, appeared again today on the summons for selling a pint of beer on a Sunday morning on unlicenced premises. Mr. Minter appeared for defendant.

Stephen Smith deposed that he was a coachman living on The Bayle. He knew the defendant through his master renting a stall in a livery stable called the Albion Mews. On Sunday, the 15th day of September, at a few minutes past 11 o'clock in the morning, several men were in the harness room of the Albion Mews drinking beer. There was a two or three gallon bottle of beer, out of which three or four pints of beer were drawn whilst he (witness) was present, by William Wilson, the son of the defendant. One pint of the beer witness paid for. It was 2d. He paid the price to William Wilson. He put the money on the corn bin, and Wilson took it up. Shortly afterwards witness left. He was not asked for the money, but he paid for the beer because it was his turn to pay. Beer had been sold at the stables every day since he had been in Folkestone. He had frequently seen the defendant's son bring the beer to the premises in a large stone bottle. The defendant was not on the premises on the Sunday in question.

Cross-examined by Mr. Minter: He did not know the beer was brought there on Saturday. He did not go with a policeman to the Mews; but the policeman was present when the beer was served to him. He had a communication with the policeman about beer being sold on the premises, and it was in consequence of that that the policeman went to the stable. It might have been a trap to get Mr. Wilson fined. A coachman named Stock asked him to drink. Some time ago witness owed Mr. Wilson 24s., and when he paid him, Mr. Wilson made him a present of a sovereign. The last month's rent was the only rent he ever paid for the stables. Mr. Wilson refused to allow him the usual commission. He did not make any threat. He did not say to Mr. Wilson “I'll be even with you; I'll pay you out”; nor anything approaching it. The policeman was present when he paid the 2d. He paid the money in the harness room, on the corn bin. He could not say what William Wilson did with the money when he took it up. He declined to say what his motive was in laying the information.

P.C. Jones said he was on duty at 10 minutes past eleven o'clock on Sunday morning, the 15th instant, and went into the Albion Mews stable yard, occupied by Mr. Wilson, of the George Inn. There were several servants in the yard. He saw one step up to young Mr. Wilson, and say “Here is the money for that pint I had”. Parties were drinking, and when the pint was empty, Stephen Smith said “Fill it again”. He said it so that young Mr. Wilson could hear him. When Mr. Wilson had filled the pint, Smith laid 2d down on the corn chest, and Mr. Wilson picked it up. Witness was then standing just opposite the door of the harness room. Mr. Wilson placed the money in his pocket.

By the court – He did not know whether young Mr. Wilson was servant to his father.

Cross-examined by Mr. Minter – He did not hear anyone say “There is nothing to pay. This is paid for”. He was not asked by Smith to go up there. He received instructions on Saturday night to go there. He did not notice a girl in the harness room. He would swear that no little child took the money off the corn bin from the time that Smith laid it down until Mr. Wilson took it up. The Albion Mews are about five minutes' walk from the George Inn. The stables were, he believed, stables for any person to keep horses on livery. The persons who were there were strangers to him, but they looked like servants.

By the Court – When Smith offered the 2d., witness was in a position to hear what passed, and he did not think it was very well possible that if Smith was told there was nothing to pay he (witness) should not hear.

Mr. Minter then addressed the Bench for defendant, urging that there was no proof that William Wilson was the son of defendant, or was acting as his servant. It could not be said that if a person let out stables to twenty or thirty gentlemen, and the servants of those gentlemen choose to go and get beer and drink beer, that the owner of those stables should be liable in penalties. There was nothing to show that Mr. Wilson was aware that beer was on those premises, or was being sold. Before going into any evidence he submitted that in point of law there was no proof that Thomas Wilson permitted or suffered beer to be sold. There was also an absence of proof that there was any valuable consideration. The most that evidence showed was that 2d. had been paid to the son, but it had not been proved that that went to the father. It might have been proved by calling the son. It must also be proved that the beer belonged to the defendant.

After consultation the Mayor said that under all circumstances the magistrates would give the defendant the benefit of the doubt as to whether William Wilson was his son or not, and would dismiss the charge. (Applause)

 

Southeastern Gazette 1 October 1861.

Local News.

At the Petty Sessions on Tuesday, Thomas Wilson, of the George Inn, George Lane, was summoned for selling a pint of beer on unlicensed premises. Mr. Minter appeared for the defendant.

From the evidence of Stephen Smith, a coachman it appeared that the defendant keeps livery stables and was in the habit of supplying the coachmen with liquor from his house, selling it in the stables. Witness was served with a pint of beer on Sunday morning after eleven o’clock, by the son of the defendant, and paid 2d. for it.

P.C. Jones deposed to seeing the son serve witness Smith, and to other servants being present and drinking.

Mr. Minter said proof was wanting of Mr. Wilson knowing beer was on the premises for sale, or that young Wilson was the son of the defendant.

The magistrates dismissed the case.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 14 June 1862.

Temporary License.

Saturday June 7th:- Before James Tolputt and A.M. Leith esqs.

Temporary authority was given to William Wilson to sell excisable liquor at the George Inn.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 3 March 1866.

Wednesday February 28th:- Before the Mayor and J. Kelcey Esq.

Mary Elizabeth Burr was charged with having feloniously stolen the sum of 7 1/2d from the till of the George Inn on the 27th ult.

Mrs. Wilson said she was the wife of William Wilson, who kept the George Inn, George Lane. On Tuesday afternoon, between one and two o'clock, she and her husband were at dinner in a room near the bar, when she heard a noise which induced her to go into the bar, and she found prisoner with her hand in the till. No other person was in the bar at the time. The till was inside the counter. She did not hear prisoner enter the bar; asked her what she was doing with the till, and prisoner said “Nothing”, and afterwards that she was shutting the till. Witness called her husband. She had been to the till about an hour before, and left it shut. There was some money in it at that time, but she could not say how much.

William Wilson, the landlord, said his wife called him into the bar, where he saw the prisoner. She told him that she had seen the prisoner with her hand in the till. He then asked prisoner what she had got in her hand two or three times. Prisoner said “Nothing” and he told her he would see what “Nothing” was. He took hold of her hand and found in it 7 1/2d in coppers. Prisoner did not open her hand willingly, but he had to force it open. Prisoner said the money belonged to her. He let her go and sent for a policeman, who took her into custody after. He went to the till half an hour before. There was some money in it then, but he could not say how much. The counter was about 14 inches in width, and she must have leaned over it to get at the till.

The prisoner elected to be tried by the magistrates, and pleaded Guilty.

The magistrates sentenced her to one month's imprisonment, with hard labour.

 

Folkestone Observer 3 March 1866.

Wednesday February 28th:- Before the Mayor and J. Kelcey Esq.

Mary Elizabeth Burr was charged with stealing 7 1/2d in copper from a till, the property of William Wilson, George Inn, George Lane, on 27th ult.

Mary Wilson deposed that she was the wife of William Wilson, and lived at the George Inn. Yesterday about one o'clock was at dinner. Hearing a noise in the bar, went in, and saw the prisoner with her hand in the till. Asked her what her hand was doing in the till. Prisoner said “My hand was not in the till. I was shutting it”. She had her right hand in. Called her husband. He came into the bar and asked prisoner what she had in her hand, when she said “Nothing”. He opened her hand and took the money from her. Saw the money but did not see how much there was. Couldm not say how much money there was in the till at the time.

By the prisoner: Did not hear her knock. She asked for a pint of beer.

William Wilson deposed that he was the landlord of the George Inn, and husband of the last witness. Was at dinner yesterday, between one and two, in his sitting room. Saw his wife get up and go into the bar. Was called immediately afterwards. Went into the bar and saw the prisoner there. His wife told him she had seen the prisoner's hand in the till. Asked prisoner what she was doing with her hand in the till, when she said “Nothing”. Asked her what she had in her hand. She said “Nothing”. Told her he must see what “Nothing” was. Took hold of her wrist, when she put her hand behind her. He then opened her hand and took 7 1/2d from her. Forced her hand open. Asked her if that was what she called “Nothing”. She said “That's mine”. Told her she might go and he would send for a policeman. Did not know what money was in the till. Had seen the prisoner in his house two or three times. The jug was on the counter, and the money for the beer lay beside it. The counter might be 16 inches wide. She reached over the counter to the till.

By the prisoner: She said the money was hers. Saw the 2d on the counter.

Prisoner pleaded Not Guilty, and elected to have the case tried by the magistrates in preference to being sent to the sessions. In her defence she said she brought 7 1/2d with her from home to buy a loaf and a bit of cheese, and her husband gave her 2d to fetch a pint of beer. She went to the prosecutor's for the beer and placed the 2d on the counter, holding the 7 1/2d in her hand. She never had her hand in the till, and the money was her own.

In answer to the Mayor, Mrs. Wilson positively swore she saw the prisoner's hand leaving the till; that the till was closed when she sat down to dinner, and that she found it open when she went into the bar to the prisoner.

One month's hard labour.

 

Folkestone Express 7 January 1871.

Wednesday, January 4th: Before The Mayor, R.W. Boarer, J. Clarke and C.H. Dashwood Esqs.

Transfer of License.

Transfer was granted to the George Inn.

 

Folkestone Express 21 September 1872.

Transfer.

Wednesday, September 18th: Before J. Tolputt and T. Caister Esqs.

The license of the George Inn was transferred from Mr. J. Algar to Mr. Harris, formerly of the Royal Oak, Faversham.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 19 June 1875.

Saturday, July 12th: Before The Mayor, J. Tolputt, Col. De Crespigny, and J. Clark Esqs.

George Davis, a private in the 82nd Regt., was charged with assaulting Mary Ann Hills on the 22nd inst.

Mary Ann Hills said that she was with her husband in Folkestone on Saturday evening last. She and her husband were in the George Inn, George Lane, about half past nine. They went into a large room on the ground floor. Several soldiers were present. She drank a little beer at his request. They remained there until eleven o'clock, and then left. When they got to the other end of the cemetery her husband left her for a time. The prisoner went on with her. (The witness here described the particulars of a criminal offence, accompanied with brutal violence, the prisoner attempted to commit).

The evidence of Alfred Newman, a private, and her husband, George Hill having been taken, the Bench sentenced the prisoner to six months imprisonment with hard labour.

 

Folkestone Express 19 June 1875.

Monday, June 14th: Before The Mayor, J. Tolputt and R.W. Boarer Esqs.

George Davies, a private in the 82nd Regiment, stationed at Shorncliffe, was charged with assaulting Mrs. Mary Ann Hoyle, of Cheriton Street, on Saturday last.

It appeared from the prosecutrix that she and her husband, the prisoner, and two other soldiers were drinking together at the George Inn, George Lane, from half past nine till eleven o'clock at night, when they left to return to Cheriton. When near the cemetery gates the prosecutrix's husband went on ahead with the two soldiers. Almost directly afterwards, prisoner put his hand on prosecutrix's mouth, threw her down, and attempted to commit a criminal assault. Prosecutrix resisted and begged for mercy, when he struck her on the eye and neck, and tried to stop her mouth. She screamed to her husband, and at last prisoner let her get up.

Examined by the Bench: My husband was a little way in front. Both he and prisoner were a little beery. I was sober.

Cross-examined by prisoner: I did not consent to what you said.

(Prosecutrix was removed from the Court at this stage of the proceedings in a fainting condition.)

Private Alfred Newson, of the 82nd Foot, deposed to drinking with Hoyle and his wife (the prosecutrix), the prisoner, and another soldier at the George Inn on Saturday night. They left at eleven and returned towards the Camp and Cheriton by way of the cemetery, witness walking arm in arm with Henry Hoyle. When near the turning leading to Shorncliffe Station he heard screams and calls for “Harry”. Witness and Hoyle turned back, and found prosecutrix standing near a fence, crying. Her eye was swelled up. Prosecutrix and prisoner had walked up together from the George. She was a little the worse for drink.

Henry Hoyle, prosecutrix's husband, a labourer, living at Cheriton Street, corroborated as to the earlier events of the evening, but could not speak as to whether the prisoner was the soldier who walked with and assaulted his wife. When witness turned back and found his wife crying, he knocked at a cottage door and asked them to let his wife in as she had been beaten by a soldier.

The Bench having consulted, the Mayor, addressing prisoner, said it was a fortunate thing for him that he had not committed this most aggravated assault on an unmarried woman, or he would have been committed for trial, and might have been sentenced to a long term of imprisonment. Considering, however, that all the parties had been drinking freely, the Bench had decided to deal with the case summarily. The affair was a warning to prisoner and others not to sit drinking in public houses. He would be sentenced to the extreme penalty allowed by law, six months' imprisonment, with hard labour.

The Mayor then addressed the man Hoyle, expostulating with him on his folly in leaving his wife to walk arm-in-arm with a soldier on a dark night. Such conduct had provoked the cruel assault to which his wife had been subjected.

William King, a respectably dressed mechanic, pleaded Guilty to having been drunk and disorderly in George Lane on the 12th inst.

P.C. Keeler stated that prisoner would not leave the George Inn on Saturday night. He was drunk, and offered to fight witness.

Defendant pleaded that a little beer overcame him, from an injury he had received in the head. He had been a teetotaller four years and nine months, but met with a friend and drank with him.

Fined 10s. and 8s. 6d. costs, or fourteen days, the Mayor advising him to sign the pledge again.

The money was paid.

 

Folkestone Express 30 December 1876.

Wednesday, December 27th: Before General Cannon, W.J. Jeffreason Esq., and Alderman Caister.

Edward Morgan was charged with stealing a belt, valued at 7s. 6d., the property of Her Majesty the Queen.

John Connell, a private in the 25th Regt. of Foot, which is stationed at Shorncliffe Camp, deposed that while he was drinking in the George Inn on the previous afternoon about half past one o'clock, he took off his belt and laid it on a chair. About half an hour after he missed it. The prisoner was in the room at the time, but not in witness's company. There were also several soldiers present, and he asked them all if they had seen his belt, and they all answered in the negative. He then called in a constable. The belt produced he identified as that which was stolen from him.

Frederick Tassart, corporal of the 41st Regt., who was in the company of the last witness on the previous afternoon in the George Inn, deposed to seeing the prisoner take a belt from off a chair and put it in his breast pocket. When Connell enquired about his belt, witness asked the prisoner if he had got it, and he replied “No, I have not got it”. Witness then sent for a policeman, and the prisoner left the room. Witness followed him to the urinal when P.C. Knowles came up, and prisoner gave him the belt.

P.C. James Knowles proved finding the belt on the prisoner, and the Bench remanded the prisoner till Wednesday next.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 13 October 1877.

Wednesday, October 10th: Before General Armstrong C.B., and R.W. Boarer Esq.

Charles Stephenson was charged with assaulting Mr. J. Quint, landlord of the George Inn, George Lane, on Saturday last. Mr. J. Minter defended.

From the evidence of complainant, it appeared that on Saturday evening the defendant was in the house watching a game of bagatelle. He saw him put himself in a fighting attitude and requested him to leave, and as defendant refused, he took him by his collar and attempted to put him out, when the defendant cut him on the under part of the right arm. Defendant refused to be put out, and sat down by a door, and, as customers passed in and out, insulted them. He attempted again to put defendant out, when he cut him on the under part of his right arm twice, and on the left arm once.

George Coppard and Alexander Allan gave similar evidence.

Mr. Minter, in defence, urged that the landlord had used more force than necessary, and there was no deliberate intention on the part of the defendant to do the injury.

Mr. Boarer said that the charge would have assumed a more serious aspect, but they were inclined to accept Mr. Minter's theory that the wound was accidental. It was a grave offence, for which they would fine him £3, and 12s. costs, or in default two months' hard labour.

The fine was paid.

 

Folkestone Express 13 October 1877.

Charles Stephenson, a young man of diminutive stature, was charged with assaulting Mr. J. Quint, landlord of the George Inn, George Lane, on Saturday last. Mr. J. Minter appeared for the defence.

The complainant stated that on Saturday evening the complainant was in his house, where he had been watching a game of bagatelle. He saw him put himself in a fighting attitude and requested him to leave, and as he refused he took hold of him by his collar and attempted to put him out. Defendant, however, clung to the bagatelle table and refused to be put out. Defendant, who was sober, then sat himself down in a chair by the door, and as complainant passed in and out serving customers, he several times put himself forward and made use of offensive expressions. He then took hold of him again by the shoulders to put him out, when defendant cut him on the under part of the right arm twice, and on the left arm once. He could not say whether the knife was in his hand when he first took hold of him, or whether he took it from his coat pocket. When he saw the blood he let go of defendant, who at once left the house. The knife produced was similar to the one defendant had in his hand.

In cross-examination by Mr. Minter, complainant said he had known defendant for three years. He had been in the habit of frequenting his house and was of a quarrelsome disposition. Did not knot that he was supposed to be short-witted, or that it was the custom to make game of him. Knew that they called him “Pop Gun Billy”. The person to whom he was squaring up was named Allen. Did not break his pipe, that he was aware of, nor did he see him with the knife in his hand mending his pipe. He was scraping his pipe, but that was before the occurrence. Defendant kept on saying “Why don't you turn me out?”, and using bad language. He did not fall through the door through being pushed, but “slunk out like a rat”.

George Coppard, a tailor, living in St. Peter's Street, said he was in complainant's house and saw defendant, apparently without provocation, put himself in a fighting attitude before a young man. He saw the landlord attempt to put him out the first time, and after some words had passed he heard the landlord say he would try to put him out again.

In reply to Mr. Minter, witness said he had not heard defendant made game of.

Alexander Allen gave similar evidence. He said nothing to defendant to cause him to put himself in a fighting attitude. Defendant struck him on the chin.

In cross-examination he said he had never met the defendant in a public house before. If it was play, it was very rough play.

Mr. Minter, for the defence, urged that the landlord used more force than was necessary in ejecting the defendant, and as he had the knife in his hand mending his pipe, which was broken in the first struggle, the wounds were accidentally caused. The larking that was going on was not such as would justify the complainant in turning him out. His client was of weak intellect, and it was custom for persons to make game of him. He was quiet and inoffensive unless irritated, and he had asked him (Mr. Minter) to express his sorrow for what had occurred.

He called John Hall, defendant's step-father, who said he returned home sober on Saturday night, and did no mention the affair until Monday, when he was apprehended. In his infancy he had a fall which hurt his head, but he was always conscious of what he was doing.

In reply to General Armstrong, witness said defendant was over thirty years old and Mr. Minter, who had been speaking of him throughout the hearing as a “lad” and a “boy” said he understood he was much younger, but it appeared he was “rather an old boy”. (Laughter)

Mr. Boarer said they were afraid at first that the charged would have assumed a more serious character, but after the representations of Mr. Minter they were inclined to accept his theory that the wounding was accidental. Still it was a grave offence, which would not be properly met with a fine of less than £3, and the costs, 12s., and in default he must go to prison for two months with hard labour. Had the charge of wounding been substantiated he would have been committed for trial, and the Bench wished to caution him as to his future conduct.

Defendant's father paid the fine.

 

Southeastern Gazette 13 October 1877.

Local News.

At the Borough Police Court on Wednesday, before the Mayor, a young man named Stephenson was charged with stabbing Mr. Quint, landlord of the George Inn, who was ejecting him from the house.

The Bench considered the wounding was not intentional, and treated it as a common assault, fining the defendant £3 12s., or two months’ in default.

 

Folkestone Express 17 November 1877.

Thursday, November 15th: Before The Mayor, General Armstrong, Alderman Sherwood, Captain Crowe, R.W. Boarer and W. Bateman Esqs.

John Corry was charged with assaulting George James Quint, landlord of the George Inn, on the 14th November.

Complainant said the defendant, an upholsterer, had slept at his house for the past five months. About half past nine on Wednesday evening he came home and sat on the stairs until they got a light for him. He appeared to be in a fainting condition, and the servant gave him two or three glasses of cold water and rubbed his head with vinegar. She lit his candle, and went upstairs with him. She came running downstairs a few minutes afterwards, after saying defendant had said things to her she did not like, and that he had placed the candle under the bed, and wished him to go upstairs. He did so, and found defendant standing up with a shoe in his hand. He threw the shoe and it struck witness on the head. He then rushed at him with shut fists and they struggled together, but witness could do nothing with him. He had placed his own candle under the bed, and in the scuffle witness's candle was put out. Whilst he was holding defendant he drew his legs up and kicked him in the mouth, knocking out a tooth and cutting his mouth. He went for assistance and found Sergt. Reynolds, who assisted him in getting defendant downstairs. He was sober.

Sergeant Reynolds said he saw complainant with his mouth bleeding. He went up to the bedroom and defendant seized hold of the water jug to throw at him. He held him on the bed till P.C. Willis and a soldier came to his assistance. He was very violent and acted like a madman. Mr. Quint gave him into custody.

The Bench considered defendant was not at the time in his right mind, and as complainant did not press the charge he was dismissed.

 

Folkestone Express 6 April 1878.

Monday, April 1st: Before The Mayor, Captain Crowe, Captain Fletcher, R.W. Boarer and J. Kelcey Esqs.

George Sharp, a labourer, was charged with being drunk and disorderly, and resisting the police on Saturday night.

P.C. Hogben said about half past ten o'clock the prisoner went to the George Inn and wanted some beer. Mr. Quint refused to draw it, and had him removed. When he got outside he commenced to be riotous, and caught hold of Hogben's collar, and he had to get assistance to take him to the station.

The defendant was said to be a very quiet man generally, and nothing was known against him.

He was fined 2s. 6d., and 3s. 6d. costs, which he immediately paid.

 

Folkestone Express 29 June 1878.

Saturday, June 23rd: Before R.W. Boarer Esq, Captain Crowe, and Alderman Sherwood.

Henry Willis was charged with being a deserter from the 10th Regiment, now stationed at Dover. He pleaded Not Guilty to being a deserter, and said he was merely absent.

P.C. Hogben said he went to the George Inn on Friday about one o'clock, and asked the landlord if he had a lad lodging there. He said he only had one of the 10th. Whilst he was there prisoner came downstairs wearing plain clothes. He asked his name and where he came from. He replied “If you come upstairs I'll write my address down, and don't make a noise”. Witness went upstairs with him and saw a uniform lying on the bed, and whilst he was looking at it prisoner locked the door. They then had a scuffle, and prisoner seized him by the whiskers and pulled out a quantity. He then said “If you let me go, I'll go quietly with you”. He allowed him to get up and then unlocked the door to let the landlord in. Whilst talking to the landlord, the prisoner struck him in the eye with his fist with such force as to nearly knock him down. P.C. Smith was sent for, and prisoner was taken to the station, where he was very violent. Sergeant Reynolds searched him, but found no pass, and he told the Sergeant that he broke out of the barracks.

Prisoner said the constable struck him first. It was a “fair fight”, and he would have gone quietly if he had been allowed. He was ordered to be sent to the headquarters of the regiment, and the Bench expressed surprise that he was not charged with assaulting the police.

 

Folkestone Express 5 June 1880.

Tuesday, May 1st: Before The Mayor, General Cannon, Colonel De Crespigny, J. Clark Esq., and Alderman Sherwood.

Enoch Davis and Joseph M'Shane were charged with being deserters from the 4th Hussars at Shorncliffe. They wore civilians' clothing.

P.C. Keeler said he was on duty at half past one that morning in George Lane and saw the two prisoners knocking at the George public house door. He asked them what they were doing, and they said they wanted a bed for the night. He then asked them what regiment they belonged to. They both said they were officers' servants and belonged to the 4th Hussars. Davis afterwards said he was “rough riding corporal” in the 4th Hussars. Neither of them were on pass. He took Davis into custody and charged him with being a deserter, and P.C. Kettle took the other prisoner.

They were ordered to be sent to Shorncliffe in custody.

 

Folkestone Express 28 January 1882.

Saturday, January 21st: Before The Mayor, General Cannon, J. Holden and J. Fitness Esqs.

Elizabeth Jeffery was charged with stealing a dress, value 10s., the property of R.M. Sharp, of 37, Harvey Street.

Mrs. Sharp, wife of Robert Matthew Sharp, fireman, said on Tuesday, the 10th inst., she was with her husband in George Lane from a quarter to half past ten in the evening. She had with her a black leather box which contained clothing. She went into the George Inn with her husband, leaving the box standing under the lamp outside. It was not fastened. They remained in the inn about half an hour. When they came out the box was still where they had left it. They took it home and on opening it missed a brown silk dress, and gave information to the police next morning. On Thursday morning she saw the dress hanging inside the shop of Mrs. Hall, Dover Street. She spoke to Mrs. Hall about it, and she gave up the dress. She knew it by having made it herself. The value was 10s.

Caroline Hall, of 31, Dover Street, a dealer in second hand clothes, said the prisoner went to her shop on Thursday or Friday of the previous week with a brown dress, for which she asked a shilling. Witness bought the dress of prisoner at that price. She said she had had it given to her, but it was of no use as it was too small. When Mrs. Sharp claimed the dress, witness gave it up to her.

Emily Jeffery, wife of Edward Jeffery, a labourer, and sister-in-law to the prisoner, said she was in prisoner's company on the 10th inst. They passed through George Lane, and outside the George Inn they saw a black leather box standing. They passed it, and prisoner said she should go back and look at it and have something out. Witness tried to persuade her not to go, but prisoner persisted. She saw prisoner go to the box and take a paper parcel. They went through the churchyard, where prisoner unfolded the paper and found it contained a dark brown dress. Witness told the prisoner she would be found out, and she replied that she didn't care. She would have taken box and all if she could have carried it. Witness left prisoner near the West Cliff Hotel.

Superintendent Taylor said on Thursday evening, the 19th, about half past eight, prisoner and her mother went to the police station. The mother said she had called to explain about the dress. He replied “What about it?” To that prisoner replied “I took it and I am sorry for it. My sister-in-law was with me and told me to take it. She is worse than me”. Prisoner was given into custody on Friday afternoon. He told the witness Emily Jeffery in prisoner's presence what prisoner had said about her. She denied having told prisoner to take the dress, and prisoner then said “No, she didn't”.

Prisoner pleaded Guilty. She said her sister-in-law told her to bring the dress down the next night and she would pawn it for 6d.

Prisoner was sentenced to seven days' hard labour.

 

Folkestone Express 26 August 1882.

Licensing Day.

Wednesday, August 23rd: Before J. Clark, F. Boykett and J. Holden Esqs., and Alderman Caister.

All the old licenses were renewed with the exception of three – that of the "Skylark," the "George," and the "Cinque Port Arms" – against which there were complaints, and the consideration of the applications was postponed till the adjourned licensing day.

 

Southeastern Gazette 26 August 1882.

Annual Licensing Session.

This session was held on Wednesday.

On the tenants of the Skylark, the George Inn, and the Cinque Port Arms applying for a renewal of their licences, Supt. Taylor said he had received information from Inspector Gosby that all three houses were meeting places for women of ill-fame, and the Bench decided to adjourn each case till the 27th Sept.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 30 September 1882.

Disorderly Houses.

Wednesday, September 27th: Before W. Bateman Esq., Ald. Caister, F. Boykett, J. Clarke and J. Holden Esqs.

Opposition was made to the granting of the licenses to the "George," George Lane, the "Skylark," and the "Cinque Port," on the ground that they harboured bad women.

The Bench administered a severe caution, but especially to the landlord of the "George," impressing on them that they would lose their licenses if the offence was repeated.

 

Folkestone Express 30 September 1882.

Adjourned Licensing Meeting.

Wednesday, September 27th: Before W. Bateman, F. Boykett, J. Clark and J. Holden Esqs., and Alderman Caister.

The granting of the licenses to the George, the Skylark, and the Cinque Port Arms was adjourned at the last meeting, the Superintendent of Police opposing their renewal on the ground that women of bad character were allowed to resort there.

Inspector Gosby was called, and said he occasionally visited the houses and found prostitutes at the bar. They went in for refreshments, but hung about the house. A month ago there were some of these women lodging at the Cinque Ports.

The Superintendent said in the cases of the George and the Skylark there had been a great improvement since the annual licensing meeting.

Mr. Mowll addressed the Bench on behalf of the licensees of the George and the Skylark, urging that they were doing their best to conduct their houses properly, and the Bench renewed all three, but with a strong caution in the case of the Cinque Ports.

 

Southeastern Gazette 30 September 1882.

Licensing Meeting.

An adjourned licensing meeting was held at the Town Hall, Folkestone, on Wednesday morning, the magistrates present being Dr. Bateman, Alderman Caister, Messrs. J. Clark, F. Boykett, and J. Holden.

Mr. Mowll, on behalf of G.L. Quin, of the George Inn, Robert Carter of the Skylark, and William Lywood of the Cinque Ports, explained that the cases had been adjourned from the last court in order that Inspector Gosby, of the Metropolitan Police, might be present. The cases were of a similar nature, and he asked that the evidence in all three should be taken together. The suggestion was that the houses were the resorts of fast women. Evidence was called, and Messrs. Mowll and Ward addressed the Bench on behalf of the tenants.

The magistrates, after a short deliberation, said that in the cases of the George and Skylark they were quite satisfied that it was the intention to discontinue any irregularities. The other case was a very different one, for it appeared if the tenant had been prosecuted for having women of that class in his house he would have been convicted. If the tenant allowed such women to live in his house, he would have his licence taken away, but the Bench would not do so on this occasion. They, however, desired to caution him that if the practice was not discontinued his licence would be taken away.

 

Folkestone Express 15 October 1887.

Local News.

The action brought by Messrs. Ash & Co., of Canterbury, against Mr. Quinton, of the George Inn, Folkestone, for breach of brewing agreement in drawing and selling malt liquors obtained from other brewers, contrary to the terms of the agreement, has been settled by the payment to Messrs. Ash & Co. of a penalty and all costs. The names of the brewers and the brewer's employee have been given up to Messrs. Ash & Co.

 

Southeastern Gazette 7 May 1888.

Local News.

At the police court on Monday Kate Waite, aged 16, a domestic servant, was charged with stealing a silk handkerchief, the property of Mr. Alfred Petts, draper, of 63 High Street.

The prisoner went to the prosecutor’s shop and purchased a hat, and after she had gone the handkerchief was missed. It was afterwards found at the George Inn, where the prisoner was servant.

The prisoner was remanded till Tuesday, when she was discharged, under recognisances to come up for judgment when called upon, a lady attending, and promising to get her into a Home.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 21 September 1889.

Saturday, September 14th: Before The Mayor, H.W. Poole, W. Wightwick, J. Brooke, E.T. Ward, J. Banks, J. Sherwood and F. Boykett Esqs.

Henry Ratcliffe, a labouring man, was charged with being drunk and disorderly on the 10th inst.

P.C. Nash said he saw the defendant outside the George fighting with another man. He was drunk. The other man was convicted last week. When he arrested the other man the defendant ran away.

Defendant said the other man was striking him, and he merely took his own part.

Alderman Banks: If you men didn't drink so much beer you would be more credit to the town.

Fined 5s. and 9s. costs, or 7 days' imprisonment.

 

Folkestone Visitors' List 28 June 1893.

En Passant.

Mr. Chas. Russell, of the George, George Lane, of this town, is the possessor of a very useful little animal in his black spaniel, Joe. This engaging member of the canine family was formerly much addicted to sporting, but a stray shot, which unfortunately deprived it of the sight of one of it's eyes, having put an end to it's capacities in that direction, Mr. Russell was compelled to think of some other direction in which it might be taught to show it's usefulness, and, after deliberation, resolved that it's new line in life should be that of a practical philanthropist. A course of training followed, which must have been carried out with infinite patience, and anyone who cares to give the obliging proprietor of the George, and his equally obliging partner, a call may see the results.

Whilst he is sampling some of the host's ales or wines, or in whatever direction his taste may lead him, he will probably feel a gentle tap on one of his feet. If he takes no notice of this at first, it will be repeated, and then when he looks down he will see “Master Joe”, who asks as plainly as it is possible for an animal to do, and with a dogged determination that will not allow of a refusal, for a “copper”. When it has been given him, Joe takes it in his mouth behind the counter, and when he has been served with a biscuit, and not till then, he parts with it, and the coin forthwith is entered into Joe's banking account. What is done with this may be shown by the fact that last year Joe paid for his licence, and his owner was enabled to hand over three guineas to the Victoria Hospital. This year, up to the time of writing, he has collected about £2, of which 7s. 6d. has gone for his permit, and two sums of 4s. and another of 2s. 6d. to the aid of cases of real distress.

Joe, it may be added, does not confine his attentions to customers of the George, but pays periodical visits to The Leas, where, without the slightest fear of the officers of the law, he plies his avocation, and on almost all occasions with success. A very capital portrait of Joe has been published by the well known animal photographer, Mr. T.M. Braund, of Church Street.

 

Folkestone Herald 5 December 1896.

Local News.

We congratulate Mr. Russell on the greatly improved appearance of his very well-conducted house – the George Inn, George Lane. The alterations have been admirably carried out by Mr. Fowler, the builder.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 13 February 1897.

Friday, February 5th: Before The Mayor and Mr. W. Wightwick.

George Headley, a private in the Highland Light Infantry, was charged with breaking a window in George Lane, the property of Messrs. Goodspeed and Co., and stealing a bottle of whisky, value 4s.

Charles Russell, landlord of the George Inn, said he heard a smash of glass on the previous evening, and on going out saw a broken bottle lying on the ground. Two soldiers were running away from the spot.

P.S. Harman said he went to Sandgate Road, where he saw the prisoner walking in the direction of Sandgate. As he got near him, the prisoner turned back and said “Have you seen my chum, Harry?” Witness replied “No, where is he?” Prisoner said “I left him in a pub at the bottom of the town, and I thought it was him running up”. He told prisoner there had been a window broken just before, and that he must go back to the police station. He went quietly. Subsequently witness went back and found the bottle of whisky produced in a garden. Prisoner was charged with breaking a window, and replied “I know nothing about it”.

Stephen Laming, manager to Messrs. Goodspeed, said he examined the shop front, and found the glass broken. A pint champagne bottle was on the ground, and a broken whisky bottle inside the window. The bottle of whisky produced was of the same brand – a brand for which his employers were the sole agents.

A remand was granted in order that a gentleman might be traced who gave the information by which the whisky was found.

Wednesday, February 10th: Before The Mayor, General Gwyn, and Mr. W. Wightwick.

George Headley was brought up on remand in connection with the charge reported above.

The Superintendent said he had been unable to obtain he had hoped, and therefore could not proceed.

Prisoner was discharged.

 

Folkestone Express 13 February 1897.

Friday, February 5th: Before The Mayor and W. Wightwick Esq.

George Evelyn, a private in the Highland Light Infantry, was charged with breaking a window in George Lane, the property of Messrs. Goodspeed and Co., and stealing a bottle of whisky, value 4s.

Charles Russell, landlord of the George Inn, said he heard a smash of glass on Friday evening, and on going out saw a broken bottle lying on the ground, and two soldiers ran away from the spot.

Sergeant Harman said from information he received at 10.40 on Friday evening he went up Sandgate Road, and when hear Underwood and Penfold's he saw the prisoner, who was wearing an overcoat and walking in the direction of Sandgate. When he was within 12 or 15 yards, prisoner turned back and met him, saying “Have you seen my chum, Harry?” Witness replied “No, where is he?” Prisoner said “I left him in a pub at the bottom of the town, and I thought it was him running up”. He told prisoner there had been a window broken just before, and he must go back with him to the Police Station. He went quietly. From what he heard subsequently, witness went back to Messrs. Underwood and Penfold's and found the bottle of whisky produced lying in the garden. Prisoner was charged by Superintendent Taylor with breaking a window and stealing the whisky. He replied that he knew nothing about it.

Stephen Laming, manager for Messrs. Goodspeed and Co., said he was called about eleven o'clock on Friday night, and examined the shop front. A square of glass was broken, and there was a pint champagne bottle on the ground, and a broken whisky bottle inside the window. The bottle of whisky produced was of the same brand. It was John Haig and Co.'s, and Messrs. Goodpeed were sole agents. The value of the whisky was 4s. a bottle, and of the champagne 1s. 8d.

Superintendent Taylor asked for a remand in order that he might trace a gentleman who made a communication to the military police, in consequence of which the whisky was found.

Remanded accordingly.

On Wednesday the accused was again brought up, and Superintendent Taylor saying that he was unable to carry the case further, it was dismissed.

 

Folkestone Programme 9 September 1901.

Local News.

It will be observed from the list of collections on behalf of the Victoria Hospital Saturday and Sunday Fund, that “Joe”, the hospital dog, has collected during the last twelve months £3 0s. 2½d. This is somewhat behind Joe's average, but then this friend of the hospital is “getting on in years”, being a dog seventeen years old. He is blind and almost toothless, and the wonder is that he can do anything at all for the institution. Joe is not a collector on behalf of the hospital who receives his crown pieces and half sovereigns; he is content with pennies and halfpennies; indeed his owner, Mr. Russell, of the George Inn, does not remember him ever receiving more than half a crown at a time. During the past ten years Joe has collected on behalf of the Victoria Hospital alone the sum of £37 13s. 4½d. But his charitable disposition extends further than the hospital, for there are other charities on behalf of which he begs a copper, and to which he pays. In his old age the friends of the hospital hope Joe may for some time yet be able to follow his vocation – that of helping the local hospital and other charities.

 

Folkestone Express 9 April 1904.

Wednesday, April 6th: Before W. Wightwick and G.I. Swoffer Esqs.

The licence of the George Inn was transferred from Mr. Russell to Mr. Frederick Taylor.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 16 April 1904.

Wednesday, April 13th: Before Mr. W.G. Herbert, Lieut. Cols. Westropp and Fynmore, Mr. G.I. Swoffer, and Mr. J. Stainer.

The Bench granted transfer of the licence of the following premises: The George Inn, from Charles Russell to Frederick Taylor.

 

Folkestone Express 16 April 1904.

Wednesday, April 13th: Before W.G. Herbert Esq., Lieut. Col. Fynmore, Lieut. Col. Westropp, G.I. Swoffer and J. Stainer Esqs.

The licence of the George Inn was transferred from Charles Russell to Frederick Clark.

 

Folkestone Herald 16 April 1904.

Wednesday, April 13th: Before Ald. W.G. Herbert, Lieut. Colonel Fynmore, Mr. J. Stainer, Mr. G.I. Swoffer, and Lieut. Colonel Westropp.

Licence was transferred as follows:- The George, from Charles Russell to Fredk. Hayward Godden Taylor.

 

Folkestone Daily News 26 July 1906.

Inquest.

Mr. G.W. Haines (the Borough Coroner) held an inquest at the Town Hall on the 25th inst., on the body of James George Quint, who was found bleeding on the pavement in front of Battery Terrace, The Bayle, on Wednesday morning.

The first witness, Mr. Winds, living close by, deposed that he heard a scream and saw the deceased lying on the pavement in a pool of blood. He went to his assistance, and Dr. Barrett was sent for.

Dr. Barrett deposed that he was called to The Bayle early on Wednesday morning, and found the deceased quite dead. He had evidently fallen from the top window and struck his head on the kerb, which had caused a lacerated wound of the skull and a fracture of the bone. He could not say whether his neck was broken, but those injuries were sufficient to cause death. He had been in the habit of attending the deceased for three months, since he had a slight attack of paralysis, which had left spinal trouble, and since that time he was scarcely ever free from pain, and had been a terrible sufferer.

Mrs. Quint, wife of deceased, deposed that she was married eighteen years since. He had formerly kept the George Inn, Folkestone, and his name was James George Quint. They resided at Battery Terrace, and the deceased had been in bad health for some time, but about three months since he had an attack of paralysis, and since that time he had been a great sufferer. He was never free from pain, and had sometimes remarked that his pain was such that he wished he were dead. On Tuesday night they went to bed as usual, and in teh early morning she missed him. She thought at first he had gone to the lavatory. On getting up to try and find him she discovered that he had gone upstairs to a room that was unoccupied, the window of which she believed was fastened. She heard a scream, and her attention was called to him lying on the pavement by a neighbour close by, who, she understood, saw him fall.

The Coroner summed up at great length as to whether the deceased overbalanced himself and fell out of the window, or whether, being in such pain, he at that time might not be responsible for his actions and jumped out. He explained the theory of suicide and the theory of accident in great clearness to the jury, leaving it to them to consider the verdict.

The jury returned a verdict that deceased met his death by committing suicide by jumping from a window during a fit of temporary insanity brought about by terrible illness and suffering.

 

Folkestone Express 28 July 1906.

Inquest.

The Borough Coroner (Mr. G.W. Haines) had a very painful case to enquire into at an inquest at the Town Hall on Wednesday evening, on the body of George James Quint, an old man residing at 26, The Bayle. Quint was well known in the town, as he for some years held the licence of the George Inn, George Lane.

Frederick Wines, residing at 12, The Bayle, a cellerman, said the body viewed by the jury was that of George James Quint, formerly landlord of the George Inn. He had lately resided at 26, The Bayle. His age was 71. Witness had known him about eight or nine years. Deceased had not been out lately, and for the past month or so he had not spoken to him. That morning, about five o'clock, he was in his house when he heard screaming. He looked out of the window and saw Mrs. Quint leaning over her husband, who was lying halfway on the pavement and over the kerb opposite to his house. Deceased was on his back about two feet from the house, with his head on the pavement. To all appearances Quint was dead when he first saw him. There was a quantity of blood under his head. He was dressed in a paid of pants, socks, and shirt. Mrs. Quint told him her husband got out of bed to take some medicine. She thought he was going to the lavatory, but instead of that he must have gone upstairs, opened one of the windows, and got out. Witness noticed that the window at the top of the house was the only one open. The bottom sash of the window was wide open.

Dr. Barrett said he had attended the deceased for the last three months. He had a slight attack of paralysis on one side. That left him with very severe pains in the spine, and the arm in particular. He was scarcely ever out of bed. He saw him on Monday, when he seemed more cheerful. That morning, at a quarter past five, he was told that Mr. Quint had got out of the window. He went round immediately and found the deceased lying in the street with his head on the pavement, and his neck just over the kerb. The width of the pavement was about six feet. There was a good deal of blood on the pavement, and there was blood coming from the deceased's mouth and nose. He was quite dead. Witness examined his head, and found he had considerable lacerated wounds right from the top to the bottom of his head. The bone was fractured across the top. The injuries were quite sufficient to cause instantaneous death. He could not say whether Quint's neck was broken. Witness thought that deceased had fallen on his head, and he then must have turned a complete somersault. There was only one window open, and that was in the top storey. Deceased had apparently not been dead more than a few minutes when he saw him. Quint had complained to him that he was not able to sleep except for a short time. He had said nothing to lead him to think he could not put up with it. After the stroke, deceased was more or less helpless on one side, and the pain seemed to increase more than decrease. In his opinion death was due to fractured skull. He had never shown signs of being mentally affected.

Mercy Quint, the widow of the deceased, said she resided at 26, The Bayle. Her husband held the licence of the George Inn twenty years ago. His age was 71. For nearly a year he had been declining, and three months ago had a stroke. He seemed to sleep fairly well. She had had the parlour arranged for a bedroom, and her husband and herself slept in it. Her husband was unable to walk about the house. During the past few days his pain had been a little easier. He had complained very much about it, and he had told her if the pain did not cease he thought he would go out of his mind. At times deceased could walk without assistance to the end of the passage. They both went to bed the previous night jut after ten, and during the night she heard nothing of him. At five o'clock she missed him from the room. She then called out, thinking he was upstairs, but as she received no answer she went upstairs, and found the top floor bedroom window facing the street with the bottom sash wide open. She looked out, and saw her husband lying on the pavement below. She went down and screamed for assistance. By the side of the bedroom window there was an easy chair. There would be no difficulty in anyone getting out of the window without standing on the chair. The window was opened as far as it would go. Deceased was six feet high. The windows were always fastened before they went to bed.

The Coroner said the question for the jury was to try and find out how the deceased got out of the window. The evidence showed, in his opinion, that he could not possibly have fallen out, so he must have jumped out. With regard to the state of the deceased's mind, they knew that there was a turning point when pain overcame people, and caused them to take steps for which they were not morally responsible.

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

 

Folkestone Herald 28 July 1906.

Inquest.

The Bayle was on Wednesday morning the scene of a very sad occurrence, involving, as it did, the gruesome death of an old man of 71. Demented, it is supposed, by unendurable pain, for which there seemed no relief, and which deprived him in a large measure of sleep. Mr. James Quint, at one time landlord of the George Inn, George Lane, threw himself, it is presumed, from a top-storey window. He was found on the pavement by his wife with a fearful gash on his head. Assistance was soon at hand, but it was of no avail, for the unfortunate man was dead.

The inquest was held on Wednesday evening before the Borough Coroner, Mr. G.W. Haines.

Frederick Wm. Hines, living at 12, The Bayle, a cellarman, identified the body. He was 71 years of age, and witness had known him for 8 or 9 years. He had not been out much lately. Witness last saw him alive about a month or so ago. He had been laid up for a month or so. That morning, about five o'clock, witness was indoors, when he heard screams. He jumped out of bed and looked out of the window, and saw Mrs. Quint, wife of the deceased, leaning over her husband, who was lying on the kerb and road opposite his (deceased's) house. He was lying on his back about two feet from the house. The body had not been shifted when Dr. Barrett came up. Deceased's head was on the pavement, and his feet in the road. Witness should think he was dead when he saw him. There was a lot of blood on the ground near his head. He was dressed in a pair of pants, socks, and shirt. Mrs. Quint said to witness that her husband got out of bed to take some medicine, and she thought he was going to the lavatory. Instead of that he must have gone upstairs and opened the window and got out. Here was only one window (at the top) open; all the others were shut. The bottom sash of the top one was wide open.

Dr. Barrett said he had attended the deceased for the last three months. About three months ago he had had a slight stroke of paralysis down one side, and that had left him with very severe pains down that side. He was scarcely ever out of bed. Witness saw him on Monday last, and then he seemed more cheerful. That morning, at a quarter past five, he was called, and on going round found deceased lying on the pavement, his feet pointing to the road. The pavement was about 6 ft. wide There was a good deal of blood on the pavement, and blood was coming from deceased's mouth and nose. Witness examined deceased's head, and found he had a considerable lacerated wound right at the top of his head, and the bone was fractured right across the top. The injuries were quite sufficient to cause instantaneous death. Witness could not say whether his neck was broken. The probability was that deceased came down on his head and then turned over. The top window was open as wide as it could be. The body had not been moved when he arrived. Witness had seen deceased once or twice a week for the last two months. He had complained that he could not get sleep, but he said nothing to lead the witness to suppose that he could not put up with it. The stroke had left him much weaker on one side than the other. The pain seemed to increase rather. That was not an unusual thing in cases of neuralgic pains. In witness's opinion death was due to a fractured skull. The want of sleep and pain did not seem to have produced any signs of mental trouble.

Mercy Quint, wife of deceased, living at 26, The Bayle, said that her husband had been landlord of the George Inn about twenty years ago. He had been declining for nearly a year. Deceased seemed to sleep fairly well. She slept with her husband in the front room on the ground floor. He could not walk about or sit up, and had had to have his food cut up for him for the last two months. The pain had been a bit easier during the past few days. He complained very much of it, and he had said that if it did not cease he thought he should go out of his mind. He could at times go to the end of the passage without assistance. About five o'clock that morning she woke up and missed him from the room. She then called out, thinking he was upstairs, but could not make anyone hear. She then went upstairs, and then found the top floor bedroom window, facing the street, with the bottom sash wide open. She looked out and saw her husband lying on the pavement below. She went down and screamed for assistance. There was nothing in front of the upstairs window, but an easy chair was at the side. The window sill was about four feet from the floor, and deceased could easily have got out without using a chair. The window was rather difficult to open, and did not open far. When she saw it, it was open as far as it could be opened. Deceased was a man of 6 ft. His head would probably have been above the level of the sash when opened. The windows were all fastened overnight.

The Coroner, in summing up, said the question for the jury to consider was how the deceased came out of the window; whether overcome with weakness or by a sudden spasm of pain as he was opening the window to get some fresh air, he fell out, or whether he threw himself out. As far as he (the Coroner) could see, deceased could not have actually fallen out. As to the state of his mind, it was very possible to suppose that he was not at the time responsible for his actions. Some sudden feeling might have overcome him which gave him the strength to go up to the top room, open the window, and throw himself out. If, on the other hand, the jury thought he overbalanced himself, they could give that as their verdict. They well knew there was a turning point when pain overcame people, and they took those steps for which they were not morally responsible.

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

 

Folkestone Daily News 30 November 1911.

Thursday, November 30th: Before Messrs. Hamilton, Swoffer, Stainer and Boyd.

Annie Hart, widow of the late Captain Hart, was charged with being drunk and disorderly.

P.C. Butcher deposed to seeing accused in a bar of the George Inn. The landlord asked her to leave. She refused, and witness ejected her. She became very violent and used bad language, so he took her into custody.

Accused said she had recently lost her husband, and would never touch drink again.

The Chief Constable said she had been convicted seven times – six for drunkenness, and once for assault.

She was fined 5s. and 4s. 6d. costs.

 

Folkestone Express 2 December 1911.

Thursday, November 30th: Before Lieut. Colonel Hamilton, and J. Stainer, G.I. Swoffer, and G. Boyd Esqs.

Annie Hart was charged with being drunk and disorderly in George Lane.

P.C. Butcher said at 6.40 p.m. he was called to the George Hotel and ejected prisoner.

Prisoner said her husband was only just dead.

The Chief Constable said she had been there six times for drunkenness, and once for obscene language, but not since five years ago.

Fined 5s. and 5s. 6d. costs, or seven days'.

 

Folkestone Herald 2 December 1911.

Thursday, November 30th: Before Lieut. Col. Hamilton, Messrs. J. Stainer, G.I. Swoffer, and G. Boyd.

Annie Hart, a respectably dressed woman, was charged with being drunk and disorderly.

When asked to plead, witness, who had to be supported by the female attendant in the dock, said she had only had a little tea.

P.C. Butcher said that on the previous evening at about 6.40 he was called to the George Hotel (sic), where he saw prisoner in the private bar. She was drunk, and would not go out when requested to do so by the landlord. With assistance, witness got her into the street, where she became very abusive and used obscene language.

Prisoner: I dare say it is true if he says it. She added that her husband had just died.

P.S. Simpson deposed that the prisoner was drunk and very violent in the police station, and used obscene language.

Prisoner said she was very sorry, and would never touch the drink again.

The Chief Constable said prisoner had been before the Bench seven times before, six times for drunkenness, and once for obscene language. It was only fair to say that it was five years ago since prisoner had been charged.

Prisoner: That was when my husband was alive. He is gone now and can't provoke me. I won't touch drink again.

The Chairman said that it was very disgraceful to see a person in prisoner's position drunk and disorderly. She would be fined 5s. and 4s. 6d. costs.

 

Folkestone Express 19 March 1927.

Local News.

A presentation was made to Mr. F. Taylor, popular host of the George Inn, George Lane, last (Thursday) evening, on his leaving the house after 23 years.

The presentation, which was really to Mr. and Mrs. Taylor, consisted of a canteen of cutlery, and eight day clock, and an illuminated address with the names of the subscribers, which were handed to him by Mr. J.F. Eldridge, who wished them a long and healthy life. Mr. T. Dodd also made a short speech, and Mr. and Mrs. Taylor both expressed their heartfelt thanks.

A vote of thanks was accorded to Mr. H. Addison, who organised the subscription list and the gathering.

 

Folkestone Herald 26 March 1927.

Local News.

The large club room of the George Inn, George Lane, was crowded on the occasion of a presentation being made to Mr. and Mrs. Fred Taylor, the host and hostess, who are retiring from business. The gifts took the form of an eight-day clock a canteen of Sheffield cutlery, and an illuminated address which bore the following inscription: Presented to Mr. and Mrs. Fred Taylor by a few friends on the occasion of their retiring from the George Inn, George Lane, wishing them nay years of health and prosperity”. (Here followed sixty three names).

Mr. J.F. Eldridge, in making the presentation, said he had known both the recipients for more years than he cared to remember. He was acquainted with them before they became host and hostess of the George. Mr. Fred Taylor was the fourth son of the late Mr. Tom Taylor, whose memory they all revered. Their friend, who had been a model licensed victualler, might be described as a real “white man”, just and square in all his dealings, and the soul of geniality.

Mr. Taylor, in returning thanks, said the splendid gifts were a revelation of the good feeling they expressed. In a somewhat difficult position both his wife and himself had endeavoured to do their duty to customers and keep themselves at the same time within the licensing laws. Mr. Taylor expressed a hope that the same good feeling would be extended to Mr. and Mrs. H. Thompson (from the Red Lion, Paddlesworth), who would in future carry on the house, which had both for himself and his wife many pleasant memories.

Mr. H.A. Addison said everyone had subscribed most readily.

The proceedings closed with the singing of “The Froth Blowers Anthem”, “For He's A Jolly Good Fellow”, and a verse of the National Anthem.

 

Folkestone Express 16 April 1927.

Local News.

At the Police Court on Wednesday, at a special transfer sessions, the licence of the George Inn, George Lane, was transferred from Mr. F. Taylor to Mr. Harry Thompson, formerly of the Red Lion, Paddlesworth.

 

Folkestone, Hythe, Sandgate & Cheriton Herald, Saturday 29 December 1928.

"A Kynges Dauter."

In the Coventry pagent, St. George is described in the Leet Book of the City as been armed and "a Kynges dauter knelying a fore hymn with a lambe, and the father and the moder beying in a toure a boven beholdyng St. George savyng their dauter from the dragon." It is likely that this was typical of the other representations of St. George.

To treat such an important character as the English St. George at all adequately would occupy considerable space; hence it must be left for the present with the remark that most of the old taverns known as the "George" originally bought as their signs a figure of St. George and the Dragon. The "George," in George Lane, is one of the oldest licensed houses remaining in Folkestone.

W. H. E.

 

Folkestone Express 22 June 1929.

Monday, June 17th: Before Alderman C.E. Mumford, Alderman T.S. Franks, Mr.F. Seager, Mr. W. Smith and Mrs. E. Gore.

Albert Edwin Chantler was charged with having on the 15th June unlawfully and wilfully broken a window at the George Inn, Folkestone. Defendant pleaded guilty.

Frank McGurr said about five o’clock on Saturday evening he was proceeding to the Central Picture Theatre in George Lane, and saw the prisoner break a pane of glass in the door of the George Inn. He did it deliberately with his fist. Witness informed the landlord of what he had seen, and helped to take the prisoner to the police station. Prisoner was drunk.

Mr. Thompson, landlord of the George Inn, said the value of the window was £3 3s. He saw the prisoner on Saturday evening, and noticed that his hand was bleeding. He asked him if he had had an accident, and he said “No”. Witness then asked him if he had been pushed against the window and he said “No”. He then asked him how he did it and he said “I did it with my fist. I asked a man for 1s. for a night's lodging and he refused me, so I told him I would break a window”.

P.S. Fox said at 5.10 p.m. on Saturday he was Station Officer when prisoner was brought to the station with the two previous witnesses. Prisoner said “I am fed up”. The first finger on his left hand was bleeding. In his (witness’s) opinion, he was recovering from being drunk He was not drunk at the time.

The prisoner said he was very sorry about it. He did not know what made him do it at all. HE was awfully sorry about the damage, but he could not pay for it.

The Chief Constable (Mr. A.S. Beesley) said prisoner was on the tramp. He was a pianoforte tuner out of work, and was just passing through Folkestone.

Prisoner said he was over sixty.

The Chairman said the case would be dismissed on condition that he promised to clear out of the town within the next few hours.

Prisoner said he would do that, and would also promise never to touch drink again if they wished it.

The Chairman said that was a promise he was very anxious that he would keep, but they expected him to keep both. Many people would say that they ought to have sent him to jail, but they wanted to give him a chance. Sixty was not a very great age, and he had plenty of time to do something yet.

 

Folkestone Herald 22 June 1929.

Local News.

Charged at the Folkestone Police Court on Monday with wilfully smashing a plate glass window, and doing damage to the extent of three guineas, Albert Edwin Chantler, who pleaded Guilty to the offence, was discharged on undertaking to leave the town.

Frank McGurr, of the Sherwood Foresters, said that on Saturday at about five o'clock he was going to the Central Picture Theatre in George Lane when he saw the prisoner strike a pane of glass in the doorway of the George Inn. He did it deliberately with his fist, and smashed the glass. Witness called the landlord and informed him what he had seen. The man was taken to the police station. He appeared to witness to be drunk.

Mr. Harry Thompson, landlord of the George Inn, said when he saw prisoner his hand was bleeding. He asked prisoner if he had had an accident, and he said “No”. He asked him if he had been pushed against the window, and he said “No”. Witness asked him what had happened, and he said he did it with his fist. Witness asked him if it was intentional, and he said “Yes”. He said he asked a man for something for a night's lodging. The man refused him, so he told him he should break a window.

Sergeant Fox said that when prisoner was brought to the police station at 5.10 p.m. on Saturday by the two previous witnesses he smelt strongly of intoxicating liquor, and in witness's opinion was recovering from being drunk. He was not drunk.

Defendant said he was very sorry. He should not have done such a mad thing if it were not for the drink. He was sorry about the damage, and could not pay for it.

Chief Constable Beesley said that prisoner was an out-of-work piano tuner, and was on the tramp.

Discharging prisoner on his giving the undertaking stated, the Chairman (Alderman C.E. Mumford) said “Evidently drink has been your downfall”.

 

Folkestone Express 13 May 1933.

Tuesday, May 9th: Before Alderman R.G. Wood, Miss A.M. Hunt, Mr. J.H. Blamey, and Eng. Rear Admiral L.J. Stephens.

James Hooker, an elderly man, residing in Cheriton Place, was summoned by his wife for assault by striking her in the eye with his fist. Mr. J.H. Bonniface appeared for the defendant and pleaded Not Guilty.

Mrs. E. Hooker, whose left eye was discoloured, said he was now working at 4, Castle Hill Avenue. They had only been married just over a year, and their life since had been very unhappy. On Tuesday evening, May 2nd, she walked down Sandgate Road, and when in George Lane the defendant tried to hit her. She went into the George Inn, and he followed her. He glared at her with an evil eye. She said to him “Don't glare at me so evilly”. As he went out of the door he struck her in the face with his fist, giving her a black eye. She went over to the police station and showed the officer there her face.

In reply to Mr. Bonniface, complainant said there was no-one else in the George, and she had just called for a glass of beer. Her last place of call was in the West Cliff Shades, where she had one drink. She went into the George to get out of his way. On April 29th she left the defendant because he told her to clear out, and she took him at his word. She had never threatened the defendant's children, but admitted she had threatened his son Robert with a flat iron because he had scandalised her. When her husband came into the George he called for a half pint of beer.

Mr. Bonniface: As he went out did you kick him?

Mrs. Hooker: I did not.

You followed him to the door? – Yes, I told him to get out.

And as you went out you pulled the door out of his hand, and that hit you in the face – It did not. He hit me with his left hand and his ring cut me.

The defendant, giving evidence, said he had three children, aged 10, 13, and 19. He denied that he struck at her in George Lane. He did not see her go into the George, and he went in there for a drink before going to the pictures. He saw his wife was having a drink, and he called for one. His wife then jumped up and said “I am finished with you. Get out of this door”. With that she gave him a kick on the shins. He drank his beer and went to the door, which he got in his hand. She pulled the door and it hit her in the face. He felt sorry for her when he saw it had hit her, but he did not go back to her, as he did not want any more, the kick being sufficient for him.

The Clerk (Mr. C. Rootes): You had had words before with her.

Witness: Not that evening. I have had a terrible time, and she has led me to a wretched life.

What part of the door hit her in the face? – It was just above the knob of the door.

The Chairman: There is no doubt that your wife has had a very black eye.

Defendant: That is so.

The Chairman said the evidence was very conflicting, and they were going to give the defendant the benefit of the doubt. They were, however, going to remit the costs to Mrs. Hooker.

 

Folkestone Herald 13 May 1933.

Local News.

A summons against James Hooker, an elderly man, for assaulting his wife, was dismissed at the Folkestone Petty Sessions on Tuesday. Mr. H.B. Bonniface defended, and pleaded Not Guilty.

Complainant said she was working and living in Castle Hill Avenue. They had only been married a year. Their married life had not been happy. On Tuesday evening (May 2nd) she walked down Sandgate Road, and as she entered George Lane her husband, who was standing there, tried to strike her. She went into the George Hotel, and defendant followed her in with evil eyes, and just as she was going out he gave her a violent blow in the face. Her eye was blackened badly.

Mr. Bonniface: Was this inside the George Hotel? – As I was going out.

Had you had a glass of beer in there? – I had just called for one when my husband came in.

Where had you come from? – Down Sandgate Road.

Where had been your last place of call? – I had been in the Shades (the Pavilion Shades) (sic).

Did you have any drink there? – I just had one.

You had left your husband on April 29th, hadn't you? – Yes; he told me to clear out.

Did you tell him if he did not send you his wages you would go and make trouble with his employers? – No.

Your husband has some children by his first wife, hasn't he? – Yes.

Have you ever threatened them? – No; I have been very kind to them.

Complainant admitted, in reply to further questions, that she had threatened one of the children because he had scandalised her. She did not kick at her husband when he went out of the George. She did not tell him to get out. She denied that it was the door which struck her in the face.

Mr. Bonniface: I put it to you that he did not touch you at all? – He did, sir.

Defendant said his wife left him on April 29th, and he had not seen her between then and May 2nd. He never struck at his wife at the corner of George Lane. When he went into the George Hotel he saw his wife was having a drink. She said to him “I am finished with you. I will have no more to do with you. Get out of this bar”. With that she gave him a kick on the shin. He (defendant) drank up his beer, and as he was about to go out the door struck his wife in the face.

The Clerk (Mr. C. Rootes): You have had words before, haven't you? – I have had a terrible time with her. She has led me a wretched life.

What part of the door struck her in the eye? – Just above the knob.

The Chairman (Alderman R.G. Wood), after the Bench had considered the case, said the evidence was very conflicting. There was no doubt that complainant had suffered a very black eye, but they (the Magistrates) were not there to see how it happened. The Magistrates were going to dismiss the case. Complainant's costs (4s.) would be remitted.

 

Folkestone Express 9 December 1933.

Local News.

Applications for the extension of hours for the sale of intoxicating liquor during the Christmas holidays and for New Year's Eve were dealt with by the Folkestone Magistrates on Friday, when the members of the Bench present included Alderman R.G. Wood, Dr. W.W. Nuttall, Alderman T.S. Franks, Mrs. E. Gore, Mr. W. Smith, Eng. Rear Admiral L.J. Stephens, and Alderman J.W. Stainer.

The first application was made by 59 licensees in the borough, who asked for one hour's extension from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, December 23rd, Boxing Day (26th December), and Saturday, 30th December.

Mr. B.H. Bonniface, on behalf of the applicants, said that the 23rd December was practically taking the place of Christmas Eve, as Christmas Eve fell on Sunday that year. He would point out to the Bench that that was the day when the visitors would be coming, when relatives would be coming home, and when their own people would be shopping up to quite a late hour on that particular day, as they would not be able to shop on the following day. He would also suggest that in asking for that one hour he was not asking for anything exceptional, because he observed from the morning paper that in the Royal Borough of Windsor on that day there was opening all day, and also on the 26th, so that he thought the application by the Folkestone licensees was a reasonable one. He suggested that they, in that town, were, within reasonable limits, prepared to make their town as bright as possible for their visitors. With regard to the 30th, that, of course, was New Year's Eve in effect, and he suggested that the same remarks applied to that.

The Chairman: I can follow you about the 23rd and the 26th all right, but is there any real occasion for the 30th? The Christmas visitors are gone, most of them.

Mr. Bonniface said that might be so, but they had to consider the town itself, and the fact that it was New year's Eve.

The Chairman: It is an innovation.

Mr. Bonniface: We have never asked for it before, sir, but it is not an unusual thing for me to ask, because other licensees have asked for it of other Benches.

The Chairman, referring to the remaining six licences mentioned, said that, of course, any extension would not apply to them unless they applied to the Bench.

Mr. Bonniface said he understood one of them was making an application.

The Chief Constable (Mr. A.S. Beesley) said he heartily endorsed all that Mr. Bonniface had said. If it would make the town a little brighter, so much the better. People so far, since he had been there, had behaved themselves. They had very few cases of drunkenness.

The Chairman: So far as you are concerned, you do not raise any objection?

The Chief Constable: No, sir.

The Chairman said the applications with regard to those three days were granted.

Further application came before the Bench on Tuesday, when the Magistrates included Dr. W.W. Nuttall, Alderman T.S. Franks, Mr. W. Smith, and Councillor Mrs. E. Gore.

Mr. H. Thompson, of the George Inn, George Lane, applied for an extension of one hour, from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m., on the 23rd, 26th, and 30th December, as granted to the licensees on the previous Friday, and the application was granted.

 

Folkestone Express 28 May 1938.

Local News.

On Wednesday the licence of the George Inn, George Lane, was transferred from father to son. The new licensee, Mr. Henry A. M. Thompson, has acted as manager for his father for several years.

 

Folkestone Herald 28 December 1940.

Local News.

There was an application at the Folkestone Police Court on Christmas Eve.

Mr. Harry Thompson, of the George Inn, applied for an occasional licence to sell drinks between 7 p.m. and 12.30 a.m. at a Spitfire dance to be held at Bobby’s Restaurant on New Year’s Eve.

The police did not object, and the application was granted.

 

Folkestone Herald 18 April 1942.

Local News.

Folkestone Magistrates on Tuesday granted a protection order to Mr. H.J. Linkins, of Somerset Road, Cheriton, who is taking over the licence of the George Inn, George Lane, from Mrs. Thompson, the wife of the former licensee, who is serving in the Army.

 

Folkestone Herald 25 November 1944.

Obituary.

Well-known in Folkestone as a licensed victualler for many years, Mr. Frederick David Godden Taylor, 104, Somerset Road, Cheriton, died recently in his 75th year.

In 1940 Mr. And Mrs. Taylor responded to the request of the authorities that all who could do so should leave the town. They moved to Cheltenham where, a year ago, Mr. Taylor was taken seriously ill. An operation was performed, but he did not fully recover. At his request he was brought, back to his home in Cheriton about a month ago. In his early days Mr. Taylor assisted his father, the late Mr. Tom Taylor, of The Bayle, in his milk business. Later he became landlord of the Eagle Tavern, Guildhall Street. Subsequently he took over the licence of the George Inn, George Lane, where he remained till he retired in 1927.

When the Hobnail Gang Club was formed at the London and Paris Hotel, he became its Chairman. He was a good singer and took part in smoking concerts and charity entertainments: his speciality was laughing songs. Mr. Taylor, who had a wide circle of friends, leaves a widow, son and daughter. The latter is in Canada.

The funeral took place at St. Martin's, Cheriton, the Vicar of All Souls’ (Rev. A.C. Cawston) officiating.

 

Folkestone Herald 7 July 1951.

Local News.

Seven Folkestone public houses were granted an extension of licence on weekdays until 11 p.m. and on Sundays to 10.30 p.m. until September 30th at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court yesterday.

Mr. W.J. Mason, appearing for the applicants, said a similar application had been granted to a number of hotels for the summer season and Festival of Britain. At Eastbourne 44 applications of the same kind had been granted and 115 at Hastings. The extension had been granted to all those who desired it in the other two towns.

The application was granted in respect of the Star Inn, Bouverie Hotel, Shakespeare Hotel, Guildhall Hotel, Prince Albert Hotel, Globe Inn, and George Inn.

 

Folkestone Gazette 20 August 1952.

Local News.

The secretary of a Folkestone sick and dividend society admitted at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court yesterday that he had appropriated £28 belonging to members of the society.

Ernest Charles Stephen Tanner (39), of 26a, Woodfield Close, Cheriton, pleaded guilty to two charges of making false entries in the society’s records purporting to show that two members had received sick payment, and charges of converting 12/- and 24/- to his own use. He admitted 26 other cases of obtaining money, which he purported had been paid as sick benefit to other members of the society.

Fining Tanner £20, with 8/6 costs, the Chairman (Ald. W. Hollands) said his action of robbing his workmates was despicable. He said it was a society where men came together to make provision for sickness. At the end of the year any balance was shared amongst the members. “They honoured you by giving you the post of secretary and you were paid”, said Ald. Hollands, “but you robbed your fellow men. It really warrants imprisonment but you have had a good character before and the Magistrates hope that you will retain it so they have decided to impose a fine”.

Tanner was given a month in which to pay the fine but was told that the alternative would be two months’ imprisonment.

Mr. Norman Franks, prosecuting, said Tanner was elected Secretary of the George Inn Sick and Dividend Society in December, 1947. His remuneration was 1/6 per member, and the membership was approximately 240. Tanner had several duties to perform. Each week he had to make out a schedule of sick members entitled to benefit.

The schedule contained the names of sick members and there was a space in which members signed upon receipt of the money. Having made out the schedule Tanner made out a cheque drawn on the Society and signed by the Treasurer, a trustee and himself. Having done that it was his duty to draw the money from the bank and put the sick members’ money in separate envelopes with the name of the member upon them.

The envelopes were then handed with the schedule to a committee man, who acted as sick visitor. He took the envelopes round to the sick members and obtained their signatures when the money was paid over. At the beginning of July Mr Luckhurst was sick visitor and on the third day of the month Tanner called upon him and handed him the schedule of sick visits for the week. He also handed Mr. Luckhurst four envelopes, but there were several more names on the schedule, including a Mr. Ernest James Pilcher. When Mr. Luckhurst drew Tanner’s attention to it his answer was that he had already paid the other members. According to the schedule Mr. Pilcher had received his money and had signed for it. Two days later Mr. Luckhurst was in Cheriton Road when he saw Mr. Pilcher, a postman, riding his bicycle and wearing his uniform. He asked Mr. Pilcher why he was working when he was drawing sick benefit. Mr. Pilcher explained that he was perfectly well and was not receiving any benefit and, in fact, had not asked for any. Mr. Franks said Mr. Luckhurst went to see defendant and at first Tanner said there had been a mistake. Further enquiries were made and it was found that the previous week there had been a similar instance concerning a Mr. Wilson, who was not entitled to benefit and, he believed, was not even a member of the Society. Further enquiries were made and it was found that there were 28 instances altogether over a period of 14 months, instances where defendant had made out schedules including persons who were not entitled to benefit, and where he had collected the money and appropriated it for his own use.

D.C. Bibby said when he first saw Tanner on July 2nd he said: “I know what you have come to see me about. It is about Mr. Pilcher’s sick money.” He explained to defendant that there was a signature against Mr. Pilcher’s name and that 24/- sick money had been drawn. Tanner replied that somebody had told him that Mr. Pilcher was sick at the beginning of the previous week. As he did not see him he drew the money and signed for it himself. He was going to give it to his boy but had not seen him. Witness said he pointed out to Tanner that Mr Pilcher’s name appeared on the schedule for the previous week, showing that 24/- benefit had been drawn. Tanner said “Yes, I signed for that but as he was not sick I paid it back in the club, along with the contributions I took at the George on Monday”. The detective informed Tanner that he was not satisfied with his explanation and told him he was taking possession of the Society’s documents for the current year. After examining the documents he saw Tanner at the police station on July 9th and pointed out that he could find no method whereby he could have repaid the money into the Society's funds. Tanner then said “I had the money and signed Pilcher's name”.

After admitting that he had done the same thing in 23 cases, Tanner made a statement in which he said he had been a member of the George Inn Sick and Dividend Society for about 20 years, and was appointed Secretary in 1947. He said he was helped by his wife and the assistant secretary. Some time during the early part of the year, he did not know exactly when, he put a person down on the schedule as being sick when, in fact, he was not ill. He entered 24/- against the person's name and totalled it up with the rest. He signed the person's name and had the money, telling the sick visitor that he had paid the money out himself. “I then found that I could obtain the money and was not being found out”, his alleged statement continued. “I cannot explain why I did it. I was not really in need of any money. I expect it was because of the easy method in which the club is run”.

Tanner, a married man with two children, told the Magistrates that he was willing to repay all the money.

The Chairman, announcing the Magistrates’ decision, said they had noted that Tanner intended to refund the £28.

 

Folkestone Herald 8 September 1962.

Obituary.

Mr. Leonard William (“Sam”) Hollands, licensee of the George Inn, George Lane, Folkestone, died at the age of 61 on Wednesday, after a long period of ill-health. He leaves a widow.

Mr. Hollands began his long connection with the brewing and licensing trade at the age of 18, when he commenced work at Hythe Brewery, where his father was yard foreman. He later left to become the licensee of the King's Arms, Boxley. After working in various capacities, Mr. Hollands became licensee of the Star Inn, Stade Street, Hythe, in 1945. Ten years later he moved to the George, at Folkestone. Mr. Hollands worked actively for the Folkestone and District Branch of the Licensed Victuallers' Association, and was in turn Treasurer, Vice Chairman and Chairman, holding the latter office from 1954-56. He was then made a life Vice President. During the same period Mrs. Hollands was of the Women's Auxilliary of the L.V.A. Mr. Hollands also served on the Kent Brewers' and Licensees' Panel, the Kent Federation, and the South East District of the L.V.A.

A funeral service will be held at Folkestone Parish Church at 3.15 on Monday afternoon, and will be followed by cremation at Hawkinge.

 

Folkestone Gazette 17 April 1963.

Local News.

The following application for transfer of licence was granted by the Folkestone Licensing Magistrates on Wednesday: George Inn, George Lane, Folkestone, from Mrs. K. Hollands to Mr. R.C. Guard.

 

Folkestone Herald 13 February 1965.

Local News.

Police statements about the responsibility of publicans towards drunken drivers have brought protests from local landlords. Superintendent Frederick Coatsworth said at Seabrook last week that licensees exerted a tremendous influence on their customers and had a vital role to play in the prevention of offences involving drink, especially where motorists were concerned.

Reaction from Mr. Reg. Gard, landlord of the George Inn in George Lane, Folkestone, was “It just doesn’t make sense. We’re supposed to be mind- readers now, asking customers their age to see if they are over 18. The only thing we can do is to refuse to serve drinks to anyone who has obviously had too much. And, of course, thirsty motorists could always wear a ticket around their necks saying “I’m a driver. Please can I have a drink?””

Mr. Ron Letts, licensee of the Globe on The Bayle, said “It’s ludicrous. Our job is to sell drinks. A fair proportion of my customers are drivers, and in the nine years I have been here I have found they are generally responsible people. On the odd occasion, when you know your customer, it’s O.K. to say “Give me your keys—you’d better take a taxi home”. But how can you say that to a perfect stranger?”

Mr. Alec Wales, of the London and Paris, near the Harbour, who is chairman of Folkestone, Hythe and District Licensed Victuallers’ Association, put most of the blame on restaurants. “You cannot hold a publican responsible for what customers drink”, he declared. “I don’t allow anyone who is obviously drunk in my house, but when they can get served at a restaurant, what can you do? I certainly don't think the majority of drunks come from pubs”.

At Folkestone Brewster Sessions on Wednesday Supt. Coats worth reiterated his opinion. “Licensees, particularly those whose premises attract what is known as the motor car trade, have a vital contribution to pay in regard to safety on the roads”, he said. The police are the first to realise in a town such as Folkestone that all persons do not obtain their liquor in licensed premises. But, as responsible citizens, licensees can exert a great influence on their customers by always bearing in mind the effect which alcohol taken in excess might have on drivers of a motor vehicle”.

The last word came from Mrs. Maud Lewis, licensee of the Guildhall Hotel, chairman of the Women’s Auxiliary of the local L.V.A. After Brewster Sessions she told the Herald “We all try to do our stuff. If we think customers have had enough we tell them so. Irrespective of whether they're driving or not, I'm firm with them on the question of drink”.

 

Folkestone Herald 11 February 1967.

Local News.

Three weeks after he was fined £10 on an assault charge a soldier with the 1st Battalion, K.O.S.B., stationed at Shorncliffe, appeared before Folkestone magistrates again on Tuesday. Private Robert McGhie pleaded Guilty to maliciously wounding another man in a public house fight and was fined £50.

Inspector E.K. Robinson said that at 10.50 p.m. on Friday police were called to the George public house in George Lane, Folkestone. From there the man McGhie assaulted was taken to hospital for treatment to facial bruises and laceration. McGhie himself was arrested after a struggle.

McGhie, who appeared in court with a black eye and his right arm in plaster, admitted two previous convictions for violence. He told the magistrates that he did not become involved in the fight until someone hit him. When that happened he struck back, but he did not know who he hit.

 

Folkestone Gazette 18 October 1967.

Local News.

Committal proceedings at Folkestone Town Hall on Friday were interrupted for a time as a Magistrate, a witness, prosecution and defence solicitors, police and the accused visited the scene of an alleged crime. The unusual step was taken to clarify the position of a key witness at the time of an incident in Rendezvous Street, Folkestone.

Brothers Michael Laws, aged 25, of Cliff Villas, Folkestone, and George Laws, aged 26, of Alexandra Gardens, Folkestone, were jointly accused of malicious wounding, attempted grievous bodily harm, malicious damage and actual bodily harm. Michael Laws was also accused of possessing an offensive weapon, while George Laws was further accused of possessing an offensive weapon, malicious damage and driving while disqualified.

Mr. A.C. Stokes, prosecuting, said that incidents happened when Mr. John Wilcox, a fishmonger, of Bolton Road, Folkestone, and Miss Elizabeth Smith, of Bolton Road, Folkestone, were in the George public house at Folkestone on September 8. At closing time, as they helped to clear up, an argument developed between Mr. Wilcox and the Laws brothers, who were in the saloon bar. During a scuffle, he said, George Laws picked up a bar stool and hit Mr. Wilcox with it, causing a wound on his head. Miss Smith became hysterical, started throwing glasses around, and was locked in a lavatory by the licensee, said Mr. Stables. After that incident Mr. Wilcox and Miss Smith went to their van, parked in Rendezvous Street. It was about 1 a.m. But then, alleged Mr. Stables, The Laws brothers arrived in another van. George had in his possession a starting handle, and Michael a knife. Then George hit Mr. Wilcox with the starting handle and Michael punched. There was no suggestion that Michael used the knife, he said. Mr. Wilcox, he added, broke loose and ran down Rendezvous Street to a telephone box. He dialled 999, but got no further as the two men dragged him out of the telephone kiosk on to the pavement. Mr. Wilcox again broke loose and the Laws brothers returned and set about Mr. Wilcox's van, said Mr. Stables, breaking the windscreen. George Laws, who was using the starting handle, threw the handle through Plummer Roddis' window. They then chased Mr. Wilcox around the streets in their van, and were at times “perilously close” to him. One of them jumped out of the van and ran after Mr. Wilcox while the other one drove. Fortunately, said Mr. Stables, a Mr. Robinson got Mr. Wilcox into his van and took him away. In the meantime, Miss Smith, having seen the attack on Mr. Wilcox, had tried unsuccessfully to phone the police from the George public house. She went to a police pillar box in Sandgate Road, but unknown to her it was no longer in use because police are now equipped with personal radio communications. The Laws brothers drove up in their van and asked her what she was doing. Miss Smith told them she was trying to phone for a taxi, said Mr. Stables. They got out of their van, but then George drove the van into Alexandra Gardens, said Mr. Stables, adding that evidence would be given that he had been banned from driving for 10 years. On other occasions the vehicle had been driven by Michael. Mr. Stables alleged that the two brothers then punched and kicked Miss Smith and she received bruises to her body and her hand swelled up. Mr. Stables added that somehow Michael Laws had received a cut or stab, but it was not clear how.

Mr. Michael Davis, of Albert Road, Hythe, said that he was engaged on doing some internal work at Plummer Roddis' store on the first floor when his attention was drawn to a commotion outside. He looked out of a window and saw a blue van. “I then saw another vehicle. I believe it was a Standard, but I am not sure about that. It appeared to be a light grey colour. It stopped right in front of the blue van and two chaps got out. I noticed that one was in shirt sleeves and that one was a little taller than the other. The chap in the shirt sleeves had a starting handle. He came out of the passenger side of the vehicle”. Mr. Davis said that one of the men was left on his own with the two who had got out of the light coloured vehicle. He alleged that the man with the starting handle hit the man who had been left on his own on the bottom of the neck – what he would call a light blow.

At this point the Magistrates' Clerk, Mr. S. Winchester, told the two brothers “Take your hands out of your pockets. You did not come here to lounge about as if you were in a cinema. And stop having long conversations with your brother. If you want to talk to your solicitor tap his shoulder if you want to draw his attention”.

Cross-examining, Mr. W.E. Court, defending the Laws brothers, asked if it was possible for the Court to see exactly from which window Mr. Davis observed these things. They visited the scene and it was established that he had been looking from the third window of the first floor at the lower part of the hill in Rendezvous Street.

On their return to the Court, Mr. Wilcox said that after the incident in the public house Miss Smith and another man walked towards their van. Then, he said, another van pulled up in front of his. In it were the Laws brothers. He said there was “a bit of a scuffle”, and he was punched a couple of times. He estimated the damage to his vehicle to be in the region of £60. “I had five stitches in my head”, he said.

Miss Elizabeth Smith, of Bolton Road, Folkestone, said that the first disturbance arose after she had been playing dice with Michael Laws.

In cross-examination by Mr. Court, Miss Smith said that there was no question of her having got hysterical while she was in the George public house.

A brewery labourer, Mr. Damon Robinson, of Stanbury Crescent, Folkestone, said that he and som friends picked up a man who was being chased. The man was bleeding from a cut on the head, and his suit had been cut. He seemed to be exhausted.

D.C. George Hough said that he and another detective were called to the junction of Grace Hill and Foord Road and examined Laws' vehicle. Under the dashboard, he said, a wooden-handled knife was found. Later, said D.C. Hough, Michael Laws made a statement in which he admitted having been at the George public house and being involved in a scuffle.

The hearing was adjourned until next Tuesday.

 

Folkestone Gazette 1 November 1967.

Local News.

Because of lack of evidence two charges against a 25-year-old fisherman were withdrawn by the prosecution at the continuation of committal proceedings at Folkestone Town Hall last Tuesday. A further charge against Michael Laws, of Cliff Villas, Folkestone, jointly with his brother George, of Alexandra Gardens, Folkestone, of attempted grievous bodily harm, was changed to one of using threatening behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace. The brothers were jointly accused of using threatening behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace; of unlawful and malicious damage and causing actual bodily harm. George Laws was further accused of unlawful malicious wounding, carrying an offensive weapon, unlawful damage to a plate glass window, and driving while disqualified.

The charges resulted from a series of alleged incidents in September, starting with a scuffle in the George public house and later in Rendezvous Street and the vicinity of Tontine Street. It had been alleged that Mr. John Wilcox and Miss Elizabeth Smith, of Bolton Road, Folkestone, had been assaulted by the two brothers, and that Wilcox's car had been damaged by them.

Mr. A.C. Staples, prosecuting, admitted that there was insufficient evidence against Michael Laws of malicious wounding and possessing an offensive weapon, namely, a knife, and he would not press those charges. Regarding the charge the two brothers faced of attempted grievous bodily harm, Mr. Staples said that there was insufficient evidence of Mr. Wilcox having been hit with a car starting handle, and he suggested to the Magistrates that an alternative charge, of using threatening behaviour in a public place, with intent to provoke a breach of the peace, should be considered instead.

Detective Constable Brian Darnell said in evidence that he was called to Rendezvous Street on September 9, where he saw Wilcox and Miss Smith. Mr. Wilcox, he said, had an injury to his head, and Miss Smith was in a hysterical condition, was without shoes and was holding her arm. Later, when he searched the Laws brothers' car, he found a steel knife, but Michael Laws explained that it was used in his job. At the police station, D.C. Darnell said, Michael Laws was questioned, and a statement was made by him. D.C. Darnell said that he then saw George Laws, who told him that Wilcox had started the fight. In reply to the allegations, George Laws told him “I don't know who said all this, but they are lying”. D.C. Darnell continued, “I said to him that it would also appear he and his brother smashed up Wilcox's van, and that one of them had driven their van into Wilcox's van. He replied “No””. D.C. Darnell read a statement in which George Laws was alleged to have said that his brother's head was injured in the scuffle in the public house and that after leaving the George they went to their vehicle and noticed that it was damaged, and that the van near to theirs had the windscreen smashed in.

In cross-examination by Mr. W.C. Court, defending the brothers, D.C. Darnell said that Michael Laws had received a puncture wound on the left side of his body and had to have a stitch inserted at the Royal Victoria Hospital. He also had a superficial injury to his head, which was bleeding. Asked if there were any other disturbances in Folkestone around the time of the alleged incidents, D.C. Darnell replied that he had been assaulted prior to this happening. “This was when I chased a man from the Odeon Bar and ran down Rendezvous Street into the Dover Road area”, he said.

Mr. Court: Had there been any disturbance in Tontine Street?

D.C. Darnell: I was not present, but I think there was.

Mr. Court: This was going on at the same time?

D.C. Darnell: I don't honestly know.

The brothers were remanded on bail to await trial at Folkestone Quarter Sessions, which commence on November 9.

 

Folkestone Gazette 15 November 1967.

Quarter Sessions.

Further jurors had to be called when several were challenged at the start of a case involving two Folkestone brothers charged with a total of seven offences, including malicious wounding, at Folkestone Quarter Sessions. The defence questioned the eligibility of seven jurors and the prosecution one.

At the end of a two-day hearing on Thursday and Friday, George Arthur Laws, a self-employed painter, of Alexandra Gardens, who was said to have served two terms of imprisonment, was fined £50 for maliciously damaging a car owned by Mr. John Wilcox, of Bolton Road, Folkestone.

He was told that he would be sent to prison for two months if he did not pay the fine. Laws was also found guilty of possessing an offensive weapon, a car starting handle, and given a conditional discharge. The jury found Laws, aged 26, Not Guilty on five other counts. They were: Maliciously wounding Mr. Wilcox; using threatening behaviour; assaulting Miss Elizabeth Smith, of Bolton Road, Folkestone; maliciously damaging a plate glass window at Plummer Roddis Ltd.; and driving while disqualified. Laws' brother, Michael, aged 25, a fisherman, of Cliff Villas, was fined £50 for damaging the car. He was found Not Guilty on the charges of assaulting Miss Smith and using threatening behaviour. Both brothers were ordered to pay £25 compensation to Mr. Wilcox, a fishmonger, for the damage to his car.

All the charges arose from a fight in the George Inn on September 8 and incidents that followed in the streets of Folkestone in the early hours of the next day, when Mr. Wilcox and Miss Smith alleged they were chased by the two brothers.

In Court, George Laws agreed that following an argument he called Miss Smith a slag. It was his intention to insult her. Wicox came running through from the public bar. As he did so, George Laws said he got off a stool on which he had been sitting and Wilcox picked it up. They struggled with it in between them. He denied that he hit Wilcox over the head with the stool. He saw his brother hit on the head with a bottle by Miss Smith. He also saw Wilcox with a knife in his hand in the public house and he saw Wilcox stick it into his brother's left side. After leaving the public house, he and his brother drove off in their van. He spent some time trying to persuade his brother to go either to hospital or the police because of the knife wound. As far as he was concerned he knew nothing more of the incidents which were alleged to have taken place.

In cross-examination he said he did not mention the stabbing when he was questioned by the police because he did not think he and his brother would have any charges brought against him.

Michael Laws said in Court that he did not have anything to do with any chase of Mr. Wilcox. He also had nothing to do with any damage caused to the car or the window. He noticed that Mr. Wilcox's car had been smashed, but did not know who had done it. Laws claimed that he knew nothing about the damage to the plate glass window. He and his brother were on their way to the hospital when arrested by the police.

Mrs. Pamela Chapman, wife of the licensee of the George Inn, Mr. Denis Chapman, said in Court that she had been playing dice with Miss Smith and the two Laws brothers. Michael Laws mentioned to Miss Smith that she owed him £4. Miss Smith started to use bad language. Miss Smith must have thrown at least two dozen glasses and some bottles. Mrs. Chapman said she had not seen a stool raised. Michael Laws tried to stop Miss Smith throwing glasses. Miss Smith was locked in the ladies' lavatory. The Laws brothers both left the pub when she asked them, said Mrs. Chapman. Mr. Wilcox stayed in the pub for about 15 minutes after the Laws brothers had left. He had a knife about a foot long, and said to Mrs. Chapman “The next time you see those two boys you won't recognise either of them”. Mrs. Chapman told the Court that some time after the incidents she received an anonymous phone call threatening her to keep quiet about the knife. “I was very frightened by it”, she added. In October she saw Miss Smith sitting on the doorstep of the pub. In a conversation that followed Miss Smith said she had got George Laws into plenty of trouble by telling the police that she had seen him driving his brother's van on the night of the fighting although she had not seen this. On hearing this Mrs. Chapman contacted the Laws brothers' solicitors.

Asked by the prosecution if she was a close friend of George Laws, Mrs. Chapman replied: “I don't know him any better than most of my customers”.

The Court was told that George Laws had seven previous convictions. He had been banned from driving for 10 years and sent to prison for 18 months in 1963 for causing death by dangerous driving. He had also served another prison term.

 

Folkestone Herald 30 March 1968.

Local News.

A Folkestone man was acquitted at Sussex Assizes on Tuesday on charges of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and malicious wounding.

The man, 32-year-old scaffolder, John Joseph Barker, of Shorncliffe Road, pleaded Not Guilty to both charges. He was alleged to have committed the offences at the George public house, Folkestone, when, after a fight, a 26-year-old marine engineer, Francis Pope, of Ingoldsby Road, Folkestone, had to receive 23 stitches for a head wound.

Pope, in evidence, said he went to the George on February 16 about closing time and had four pints of keg beer. He also went to other public houses that night and had seven or eight pints and perhaps a whisky. He met Barker in the George bar and told him he would like to discuss a private matter. They went into the children's room. There was an argument which became a bit heated and they came to blows. They were punching each other and Mr. Dennis Chapman, the landlord, separated them. There was a further fight and they both fell to the ground. Soon afterwards Pope found he had a cut on his cheek and was helped upstairs and later went to hospital. He said he went to the George for a quiet drink and claimed that Barker struck the first blow. But he admitted he probably told Barker he was going to “knock Hell out of him”.

In cross-examination, Pope said it was rubbish to say he was a bully and spoiling for a fight, and not true that he had provoked Barker all the time. He admitted never having seen Barker with a knife.

Mrs. Mary Crozier, barmaid at the George, and former friend of Barker, said that when Pope arrived at the pub he was drunk. She saw him butt Barker in the stomach and set on him with his fists raised. They rolled on the floor together. She saw Barker with a knife in his hand, but she took it from him. At the time there was broken glass on the floor. Mrs. Crozier added “I never saw Barker use a knife on Pope; he wouldn't even fight back”.

Medical evidence said that Pope's injuries could have been caused by him falling on broken glass.

Barker, in evidence, said he was drinking shandies. After Pope came to the pub he went into a private room at Pope's request and was struck in the stomach and face. At no time did he use a knife on Pope. He pulled out a knife from his pocket after he heard someone shout “Watch him; he's got a knife”. He thought he was being attacked from behind as well by another man. He told Mr. Justice Thompson he believed someone else had a knife at that moment. He admitted he would have used the knife if he had been attacked with one, but at no time did it come into contact with Pope.

 

Folkestone Herald 15 May 1971.

Local News.

When 1,400 continentals visit Folkestone next Thursday the doors of local pubs will be open to them all afternoon. On Tuesday local Magistrates decided in favour of a second application to allow 17 pubs to remain open especially for the visitors. They had vetoed a previous application. The second made by publicans was amended to allow for a half-hour break at 5.30 p.m. before their premises opened for the evening session.

Mr. J. Medlicott, for the publicans, told the Magistrates that the visitors were delegates attending a conference in Bruges. One of its highlights was to be a visit to England. He referred to a letter received by Folkestone Corporation from the British Tourist Authority supporting the publicans' application. The visit – by Dutch, Swiss, Belgians and Germans – was a special occasion, not just a shopping expedition, said Mr. Medlicott. It had been arranged by a Bruges tourist organisation which had particularly asked that pubs should be open in the afternoon.

Police Inspector R. Sanders made no formal objection to the application – but doubted whether the visit was a special occasion.

The Chairman of Folkestone Chamber of Trade, Mr. Alan Stephenson, said later “The cross-Channel visitors' committee of this Chamber is very pleased that this has been seen as a special occasion by the Justices. When one is reminded that this extension is no more than happens in many market towns every week of the year, it seems a fair request, especially as Folkestone’s image abroad could be much influenced by the original decision not to allow the pubs to open”.

The pubs which will stay open are; Jubilee, Ship, Oddfellows, Royal George, London and Paris, True Briton, Harbour Inn, Princess Royal, Clarendon, Brewery Tap, Earl Grey, Prince Albert, George, Globe, East Kent Arms, Guildhall and Shakespeare.

 

Folkestone Gazette 28 February 1973.

Local News.

Licensee of the George Inn, George Lane, Folkestone, Mr. Dennis Herbert Chapman, on Monday lost his High Court appeal against his conviction for selling intoxicating drink to a youth under the age of 18. Mr. Chapman had been fined £10 when he appeared before magistrates at Folkestone.

Mr. Justice Ashworth, sitting with the Lord Chief Justice, Lord Widgery, and Mr. Justice Bridge, said the offence arose out of the sale of a light ale and lime to a 14-year-old youth. When the case was heard, objection was taken on behalf of Mr. Chapman to the fact that a declaration preceding a statement made by a forensic analyst had not been signed.

But there was no requirement that the declaration must be signed, said the judge. It was the statement, incorporating the declaration, which had to be signed by the witness. The justices were right to reject this objection to the admissibility of the statement. It had also been said there was insufficient evidence to show that Mr. Chapman had personally sold the drink to the youth, but that had not been pressed, said Mr. Justice Ashworth.

The appeal was dismissed with costs.

 

Folkestone Gazette 20 February 1974.

Local News.

A Folkestone police inspector, fined £5 on Monday for being drunk in Sandgate Road, told Magistrates that he had been warned that he would be “stitched” – police jargon for a frame-up or concocted evidence against him. Brian Francis McConnell, 29, of 21, Earls Avenue, pleaded Not Guilty before three Cranbrook Magistrates at a special Folkestone Court. The magistrates were brought in as McConnell was, until December, court inspector at Folkestone.

P.C. Donald Weeks said that he was on motor patrol duty with Sergeant Ian Worledge at 1.10 a.m. on December 20. They were parked in the police bay outside Debenham's store when McConnell staggered towards the car. He tapped on the window and asked about two people to whom P.C. Weeks had spoken on the previous night. McConnell's voice was slurred, and he staggered backwards, collapsing on his back in Debenham's doorway. P.C. Weeks said “Mr. McConnell got to his feet, came back and said he was drunk, or words to that effect. He asked for a lift home and got into the rear of the vehicle”. They drove off, but had travelled only a little way when McConnell told the sergeant to get out of the car. They continued to Earl's Avenue and stopped outside McConnell's home, but he refused to leave the car. A call was made to Inspector Philip Roberts, who arrived at Earl's Avenue and ordered McConnell to be taken to Folkestone police station.

Cross-examined by Mr. Michael Lewer, Q.C., defending, P.C. Weeks agreed that it was an unusual matter for him to be dealing with an inspector in a case like that. Mr. Lewer asked “You made no record in your note book?”

P.C. Weeks: I didn't put in any speech.

Is the reason that you didn't think you would have to recount the speech? – Yes, sir. I thought it would be dealt with in a different way – if at all.

Asked whether McConnell had a reputation of being something of a joker, P.C. Weeks said “It may be the case, but I don't know of it”.

P.C. Weeks said that on the previous night he had been called to the George Inn, George Lane, at the request of McConnell, who complained that there were two uninvited people at a private party.

Sergeant Worledge agreed he helped Inspector Roberts to put McConnell in a cell. He described McConnell as normally a light-hearted pleasant man, but said that when he was in the police car he seemed distraught – “very upset indeed”. “I had formed the opinion that he was drunk”, he said. Sergeant Worledge agreed with Mr. Lewer that a drunk was usually searched and his tie and bootlaces taken away from him. This did not happen in McConnell's case.

Inspector Roberts said that when he saw McConnell in Earls Avenue, he said to him “Come on Brian, it’s time to go to bed”. McConnell fell sideways on the back seat of the police car. At the police station, McConnell stood against a wall and collapsed before being assisted into a cell. At 5.30 a.m., McConnell was awake. Inspector Roberts said “I asked him if he was feeling better and he said “That’s the safest sleep I have had for a long time. They are trying to get me””. Told he was being taken home, McConnell asked why. “I told him “I don't want every copper in this station to see you in this condition””, said Inspector Roberts.

Referred by Mr. Lewer to the police occurrence book for the date in question, Inspector Roberts agreed that no entry was made about McConnell being placed in a cell.

Asked if he knew McConnell well, he replied “Inspectors are people who pass in the night”. He was aware that McConnell had been given notice of his transfer to County Headquarters at Maidstone and was not happy about the move.

P.C. Harry Salisbury, station officer at the time McConnell was taken to the police station, told the Court that he saw him leave in the morning. He did not see McConnell wink at him. Asked whether he knew McConnell as a practical joker, P.C. Salisbury agreed that he was once told to ring a telephone number which turned out to be that of Recipe of the Day.

On oath, McConnell said that he had been in the police force for seven and a half years and an inspector for 18 months. He heard in December that he was being transferred to the operations room at County Headquarters. “I regarded it as a retrograde step. I thought it was a bad administrative move”, he said. McConnell said that on the morning of December 18 he slipped at the police station and hurt his knee. Throughout the afternoon he was at Hythe, on duty as escort to Miss World, who was paying a visit to the town. McConnell said that after Miss World had finished her official duties, he asked her and her manager to have a drink with him. “They wanted to find their way through Folkestone to the A20 and I invited them to have a drink at the George. They accepted, and were there for about 20 minutes after which I accompanied them to the A20”. Afterwards he stayed behind as a guest of the landlord at a private party. McConnell said that on the following day his leg was hurting so he rang the police station to say that he would not be in. Later that day he decided to keep a lunchtime appointment. On the way there he saw P.C. Robin Venner, with whom he had been working for 2½ years. “He said I should be careful because there was a rumour going around the police station that someone was going to stitch me”.

Asked what “stitched” meant, McConnell said “To a police officer it means a frame-up or a concocted evidence job”.

McConnell went on: “I was frightened and apprehensive so I went to the offices of the Folkestone Herald and Gazette, where I made a telephone call. There were several reporters there and I asked them to listen to the call to Superintendent Snelling. I asked him to make a note in his pocket book of the time and date, so that if anything happened it would be recorded as evidence on my behalf. Superintendent Snelling said that he would write it down and asked me to be in his office at 2.30 p.m. to see Chief Superintendent Pullinger from Dover. I had a lengthy interview about Miss World, the George, my objection to transfer and my criticism of the administration of the force. I was then asked to make a written statement. Superintendent Snelling then asked Mr. Eric Haslam, the deputy chief constable, to come to Folkestone from Maidstone as soon as possible”. McConnell said Mr. Haslam arrived and there was another long interview. He eventually left the police station at 7.15 p.m. He went for a meal and then met his girlfriend, Mrs. Sandra Leach, at 8.30 p.m. They had two halves of lager at the George, two or three at the Harbour Inn and two at the Princess Royal before returning to the George. Later they stayed behind with the landlord and his wife, when, said McConnell, he drank four or five Southern Comfort bourbon liqueurs – the drink taken by Miss World the previous evening.

Mr. Lewer: You were following in the footsteps of Miss World?

“I was indeed, sir”, replied McConnell, who said the drink affected his mood but not his speech or faculties. As he walked home with Mrs. Leach a police car passed them on at least one occasion. “I was annoyed”, said McConnell. “For 2½ years I had felt that I was being followed by night duty policemen. Perhaps it relieved the boredom of night duty. I believed that, because of my girlfriend, I was an item of curiosity at the police station. As I walked by the police car I said “this is getting too much”, bearing in mind the events of the day. I asked my girl friend to walk on ahead and a police car drew alongside. I tapped on the window and spoke for some time about the events of the previous night and of Miss World’s visit”.

Mr. Lewer: The police say that you stepped back into the entrance to Debenhams and collapsed in the doorway.

McConnell: I told them I had been drinking and challenged them to arrest me. I didn't know if they were the ones trying to stitch me. They said “There is nothing wrong with you – go home”. I said that if I were to sit in the doorway then they could arrest me. There was no-one at the scene and I was not making a spectacle of myself. I was calling their hand. I know that I was foolish, but I'm not accused of being foolish. I was accused of being drunk, which I was not.

McConnell said he asked the sergeant to get out of the car because he was talking about getting an inspector there. “His manner made me apprehensive”. By the time he reached his home there were three police officers involved and he was sure he would be reported to the superintendent. “I had reached the point of no return”, he said. “My state of mind was not what it should have been. I was playing it along and acting out of character. When I decided to push it to the limit, I decided to fool around, slurring my speech and acting drunk. I was partly apprehensive because of my fear of being stitched, and then because I thought I was carrying a joke too far”. Asked about his reputation as a joker, McConnell said that in a mundane job he played jokes over his personal radio. “I did not hurt the public, and I feel that my section has the highest morale in Folkestone”, he said. McConnell said that he was collected from his home at 10.20 a.m. the same morning and taken to Superintendent Terry Snelling who gave him the choice of resigning on the spot or being suspended and subjected to a police inquiry. He did not resign and was suspended.

Cross-examined by Mr. Colin Staples, McConnell denied that he was not on official duty when he acted as escort to Miss World. He said “Inspector John Ansell was on night duty and passed it on to me”. Of the episode in Sandgate Road, McConnell said “If it was a joke, I accept that I went too far”.

Mrs. Sandra Leach, of 67a, Wear Bay Crescent, Folkestone, said that she was a former barmaid and was well able to judge whether or not a man was drunk. On the night in question McConnell was limping badly, but was definitely not drunk.

Asked if she was his girlfriend, Mrs. Leach said “I was at the time, but we are not seeing each other at present”.

Mrs. June Chapman, wife of the licensee of the George, said that when McConnell left the public house he was “merry but capable”. She said he did not slur his speech.

Summing up, Mr. Lewer said of McConnell: Maybe he had too much time – and who can blame him – with Miss World and had got into hot water. Being accused of being drunk is a minor matter to most people. This man's career in the police force is in shreds and tatters anyway. He is a man who has now got to pick up what he can. How he can justify himself at a disciplinary hearing I don't know, but in my submission his behaviour cannot be put down to being drunk. It was just one incident in a difficult day.

After a short retirement, the Magistrates found the case proved, and fined McConnell £5. He was given 21 days to pay after indicating that he would be lodging an appeal.

 

Folkestone Herald 9 August 1975.

Local News.

A Folkestone man found Guilty of assaulting a police officer was given a six-month sentence by Folkestone Magistrates last Friday.

Roy Miller, 25, of Thanet Gardens, who denied the offence, was also fined £5 for threatening behaviour likely to cause a breach of the peace. He was bound over in the sum of £25 to keep the peace and was ordered to pay £7 costs. No order for legal aid was made. James Daley, 25, of St. John’s Street, was also fined £5 for threatening behaviour likely to cause a breach of the peace and bound over in the sum of £25 to keep the peace. He too was ordered to pay £7 towards the cost of the prosecution. He pleaded Not Guilty.

The charges arose from an incident outside The George Inn, George Lane, Folkestone, in May. When the police arrived, a group of about a dozen young people were scuffling in the street, the Magistrates were told.

Police Constable Arthur Morris said he saw Daley grab hold of another man's shirt and raise his fist. The officer grabbed hold of Daley, who told him “This is nothing to do with you. This is family”. As they were talking, Miller ran up and told him to leave Daley alone. Police Constable Morris said “I saw P.C. Cox stand in front of Miller, trying to calm him down. Miller brought up his knee between P.C. Cox’s legs; he gasped and doubled up”.

Police Constable Charles Cox told the court he was badly bruised and in pain for days afterwards.

Mr. Brian Deaville, defending, asked Police Constable Phillip Musgrave why three policemen were needed to hold down Miller, who was only a little chap?

“Yes, but he is wiry with it”, replied the officer.

Daley said that by the time the police had arrived, the fight was over. The police told him that if he did not tell them the names of the people with whom he was fighting he would be arrested. “I said. O.K., take me now”, added Daley.

Miller told the court he definitely had not kneed P.C. Cox.

The case was interrupted when Daley’s sister, Faith, took the oath. The clerk to the court, Mr. Stanley Winchester, stopped the proceedings to ask “Has anyone been outside the court and talked to you about this case?”

“No”, replied Miss Daley.

Pointing to a man in the gallery, Mr. Winchester said “What, about that man over there?”

The man stood up and said he had talked to Miss Daley outside, but not about the case.

(There is a further sentence printed, but unfortunately the end of the report was not printed.)

 

Folkestone Herald 28 July 1979.

Stroller.

Drinkers have been supping their ale in Folkestone’s George Inn for more than 400 years. The George is thought to be the town's oldest pub, and its history is outlined in a recently published book about ancient Folkestone drinking establishments.

The landlord, Dennis Chapman, is proud to run the oldest pub in town. “I knew it was old because the doors to the cellar are below ground level, but I didn’t realise how old it was”, he said this week.

The pub, which is in George Lane, used to be called the Cheker. It was mentioned in the town accounts for 1525 when the mayor entertained, travelling players at the inn. A Master Kennett managed the pub and the Kennett family has been connected with Folkestone for many centuries. It got its new name by 1729, and records show that two horses were stolen from the George’s stable that year. The earliest official reference to it comes in the Folkestone Sessions book for 1766 when Neat Ladd was the licensee. “At the beginning of the present century it was the rendezvous of the George Inn Cork Club, many of the members of which were total abstainers”, says the book. The book is called Old Folkestone Pubs and it is written by Dr. C. H. Bishop.

 

South Kent Gazette 23 April 1980.

Local News.

A Former Scout leader propositioned two young girls outside a pub, it was alleged in Court last Tuesday.

Folkestone Magistrates heard from a 17-year-old girl that she was walking past the George pub, in George Lane, Folkestone, when Frank Michael White, of Salisbury Road, Cheriton, came out. “He came put and said “What are you two young ladies doing out at this time of night?””, said the girl. She told the Court that White then pulled a wallet out of his pocket, showed her a badge and a card, and said “C.I.D.”. “He started talking to us and propositioning. He offered us money to go to the Motel Burstin with him”.

After the trial White was convicted of falsely suggesting he was a police officer by showing a badge and a card and claiming to be a C.I.D. member. He was fined £25 with £30 costs.

When asked by P.C. Clive Ellesmore, white admitted that the badge and card were his, but denied propositioning the girls or offering them money.

According to White the incident happened about 10.40 p.m. when he was drinking with two friends at the George. One of his friends, Mr. Ian Duff, went outside and was followed by Mr. Steven Russell, of Downs Road, Folkestone. A short while later White went after them and said “I think you are being a bit silly getting involved with young girls. They look too young”. And he claimed that Mr. Duff took his wallet and started to wave it around. Although White tried to get it back, his friend kept the wallet out of reach.

 

Folkestone Herald 25 April 1986.

Local News.

A burglar was scared away from a Folkestone pub by the landlord in the early hours last week.

The landlord of The George, Raymond Holcombe, narrowly missed losing over £1,000 in cash stored on the property. Mr. Holcombe said he woke at 4.30 am last Thursday to find a man dressed in black stalking along his landing. He jumped out of bed, but the door was slammed in his face. “By the time I had opened it the burglar was out of the window he got through, which must be 35 feet off the ground”, he said.

The incident happened the same day Mr. Holcombe was due to leave and hand over the tenancy. He suffered another break-in less than two months ago, when cash and property worth £250 were stolen. “I think the burglar must have been somebody who knew I was leaving, and who thought the premises were already empty”, he added.

Note: This does not appear in More Bastions.

 

Folkestone Herald 23 January 1987.

Local News.

A man charged with breaking two windows at a public house and with handling stolen goods appeared before Magistrates on Friday. James Lees, 37, of Wood Avenue, Folkestone, pleaded Guilty to both charges. He is married with four children.

The court heard that on August 14 last year Lees was drinking in the George Inn in George Lane, Folkestone, when he became involved in a row with other customers. During the argument, Lees picked up a pool cue and smashed the two windows causing £50 worth of damage. He was restrained by landlord Brian Tofts and then left the pub. On September 18, 1986, he was arrested by police and accused of handling stolen goods received from a friend who was later jailed for three months. When he was arrested, Lees was wearing a round-neck pullover worth £13 which was one of a number of items of clothing reported as stolen from town centre shops in Folkestone during September.

The court heard that, until the incident in the George Inn, Lees, who had had a serious drink problem, had not touched alcohol for four months. But the visit of a friend from Scotland triggered the drinking session.

Magistrates adjourned sentence on Lees for three weeks and ordered a social inquiry report. He was remanded on unconditional bail until February 6.

 

Folkestone Herald 3 April 1987.

Local News.

Mystery surrounds the closure of the George public house in Folkestone town centre. The pub has been closed this week, and a sign on the door says “Closed. Sorry, no beer.”

A spokesman for Fremlins Brewery admitted that three months’ notice had been served on the landlord of the tenanted pub, Brian Tofts. He added “The three month period has now elapsed, and we are taking legal steps.” Fremlins were unable to confirm or deny speculation that Mr. Tofts has locked himself inside the George and refuses to vacate the premises.

 

Folkestone Herald 10 April 1987.

Local News.

A Folkestone publican claimed this week he has been driven out of his pub by vicious louts. Brian Tofts, 49, the landlord of Folkestone's oldest pub, the George, has put up the shutters because he can no longer cope with the activities of his clientele. He told the Herald “This is my first pub, and when I took over last April I had the best intentions. I ejected a certain element who were using it to sell drugs, and the place seemed to have potential. In just 12 months I have had to ban over 70 people, and both my stepson and myself have incurred injuries from breaking up fights. The last straw was when somebody stole the charity collection boxes off the bar and stole money from the till when I was separating two individuals involved in a vicious struggle. I have worked in Brixton Community Centre and experienced riots, muggings and street violence, but nothing compares with this. I honestly believe this is the roughest pub in Britain”, Mr. Tofts said.

A spokesman for Fremlins Brewery admitted three months' notice had been served on the tenanted pub, and as this time had been served they were taking legal steps to reclaim the property.

Local News.

A man charged with smashing beer glasses and other property at a Folkestone bar was further remanded in custody by the town’s Magistrates on Friday. Mr. Andrew Peter Challen, 29, of Dallas Brett Crescent, Folkestone, is accused of damaging the glasses, ashtrays and spirit optics, together worth £65, owned by Brian Tofts, on March 16 this year.

 

Folkestone Herald 10 July 1987.

Local News.

A pub landlord due to be barred by a brewery was given a breather this week. Mr. Brian Tofts, the landlord of one of Folkestone’s oldest pubs, the George, faces eviction by Whitbreads after shutting out customers in April. He barred regulars at the town centre local in George Lane after trouble with customers and a dispute with the brewery. At the time Mr. Tofts claimed the pub was the roughest in Britain.

This week, Whitbreads agreed to adjourn their civil case against him for six weeks at Folkestone County Court. The brewers claim that Mr. Tofts has not paid any rent since March.

However, he said this week that the George had been in such a bad condition that he had spent well over £5,000 fixing it up. After the adjournment, Mr. Tofts said “We need a breathing space. Quite honestly I think I have been caught by Whitbreads”. The adjournment is doubly welcome as Mr. Tofts and his family say they have nowhere to go. “I have got nowhere else to go and I have spent all my money on the pub”, Mr Tofts added.

When the case finally goes ahead it is expected to last about two days, and he plans to produce photographs to support his claim that the George was unfit for habitation, before he did it up.

 

 

LICENSEE LIST

KENNETT Mr Mentioned 1525+ Bastions

 

WALTERS Richard c1700+ Bastions

LADD Neat c1765-82 Bastions

PILCHER John 1782-1807 Bastions

PILCHER James 1807-11 Next pub licensee had Bastions

WELLARD William 1811-20 Bastions

Last pub licensee had HUTCHINS Robert 1820-25 Pigot's Directory 1823Bastions

KIMBER James 1825-43 (Pigot's Directory 1832-34Pigot's Directory 1828-29Pigot's Directory 1839 KEMBER)Pigot's Directory 1840Bastions

KIMBER/KEMBER Susanne 1841+ (publican age 60 in 1841Census)

FOORD Thomas 1843-May/45 Bastions

PAY William May/1845-52 (age 48 in 1851Census) Bagshaw's Directory 1847Bastions

BOULT William 1852-Dec/55 Folkestone ChronicleBastions

Last pub licensee had WILSON Thomas Dec 1855 Folkestone Chronicle

DULLEN William 1855-58 Bastions

Last pub licensee had WILSON Thomas 1858-June/62 (age 54 in 1861Census) BastionsMelville's 1858

Last pub licensee had WILSON William June/1862-68 Next pub licensee had Post Office Directory 1862BastionsFolkestone Chronicle

KEMP George 1868-71 Bastions

ARGER Alfred 1871-72 Bastions

HARRIS Thomas 1872-73 Bastions

QUINT George 1873-88 (age 45 in 1881Census) Post Office Directory 1874Bastions

RUSSELL Charles 1888-1904 Post Office Directory 1891Kelly's 1899Post Office Directory 1903Kelly's 1903Bastions

Last pub licensee had TAYLOR Frederick D G 1904-27 Post Office Directory 1913Post Office Directory 1922Bastions

THOMPSON Harryy 1927-38 Kelly's 1934Post Office Directory 1938Bastions

THOMPSON Harry Augustus 1938-41 Bastions

THOMPSON Eugenie 1941-42 Bastions

LINKINS Harry 1942-48 Bastions

GOUGE Dennis 1948-53 Bastions

ROUX Aubrey 1953-55 Bastions

HOLLANDS Leonard 1955-62 Bastions

HOLLANDS Kate 1962-63 Bastions

GARD Reginald 1963-66 Bastions

CHAPMAN Dennis 1966-86 Bastions

HOLCOMBE Raymond 1986

TOFTS Brian 1986-88 Bastions

 

Renamed "Cheker."

 

Pigot's Directory 1823From the Pigot's Directory 1823

Pigot's Directory 1828-29From the Pigot's Directory 1828-29

Pigot's Directory 1832-34From the Pigot's Directory 1832-33-34

Pigot's Directory 1839From the Pigot's Directory 1839

Pigot's Directory 1840From the Pigot's Directory 1840

Bagshaw's Directory 1847From Bagshaw Directory 1847

Melville's 1858From Melville's Directory 1858

Post Office Directory 1862From the Post Office Directory 1862

Post Office Directory 1874From the Post Office Directory 1874

Post Office Directory 1891From the Post Office Directory 1891

Kelly's 1899From the Kelly's Directory 1899

Post Office Directory 1903From the Post Office Directory 1903

Kelly's 1903From the Kelly's Directory 1903

Post Office Directory 1913From the Post Office Directory 1913

Post Office Directory 1922From the Post Office Directory 1922

Kelly's 1934From the Kelly's Directory 1934

Post Office Directory 1938From the Post Office Directory 1938

BastionsFrom More Bastions of the Bar by Easdown and Rooney

Folkestone ChronicleFrom the Folkestone Chronicle

 

If anyone should have any further information, or indeed any pictures or photographs of the above licensed premises, please email:-

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