Folkestone Herald 30 April 1898.

Police Court Report.

On Saturday last – Alderman Pledge presiding – John Bryan pleaded Guilty to being drunk in charge of a horse and cart.

P.C. Burneston deposed that on the previous night he ejected the defendant from the Swan public house. He drove twice on to the pavement. He was drunk, and unfit to be in charge of a horse and cart.

There was another charge against defendant of refusing to quit licensed premises. He pleaded Not Guilty.

Mr. Brett, manager of the Swan Inn, deposed that defendant came into the Swan. Witness saw him about 4 o'clock. He refused to leave. The constable put him out. Defendant was in a drunken state.

Defendant said he only went in there.

P.C. Burneston deposed that he was called at ten past six to eject prisoner.

Defendant said he had several twos of whisky.

The Bench fined him 5s., 4s. 6d. costs, or 7 days' hard labour. They dismissed the second charge of refusing to quit, it being the firm impression of the Chairman that defendant got drunk at this house.

Folkestone Herald 21 May 1898.

Police Court.

On Saturday – the Mayor (Colonel Penfold) presiding – Mrs. Eliza Holloway was summoned for assaulting Mrs. Harriett Wall on the 9th inst.

Complainant deposed that she was a married woman, living at 68, Black Bull Road. On the previous Monday evening she went into the Red Cow for the key of the house. She had to wait a little while, and had a “small lemon”. Her husband gave her the key, and went out. She followed. Whilst he was talking to Mrs. Holloway's son, witness went up and asked him something. Witness's husband and defendant's son had a scuffle, and defendant tore a bag out of her hand.

Defendant then gave her version of the affair.

The Bench dismissed the case. Complainant to pay 2s. costs.

Folkestone Herald 22 August 1903.

Thursday, August 20th: Before Aldermen Banks and Salter, Lieut. Colonel Hamilton, Messrs. W. Wightwick, and G.I. Swoffer.

Arthur Jones and James Allen were charged with being concerned together in uttering a gilded sixpence for a half sovereign.

Mary Fisher, a barmaid at the Harbour Inn, recognised Jones as the man who, about half past eight the previous day, came into the bar and asked for a “mild and bitter”. Prisoner offered a sovereign in payment, and witness gave him the change, 19s. 10½d., a half sovereign and the rest in silver. She saw prisoner put his hand over the piece of gold as if to pick it up, but drew it back and then put it suddenly forward, at the same time asking her to give him the half sovereign in silver. Witness thought it was the same half sovereign she had put down, and complied with his request. Prisoner then left.

Thomas Hall, landlord of the Harbour Hotel, said that he saw the two prisoners at the bottom of High Street counting some money between them. He caught hold of Jones and said “You have been passing a bad coin through my barmaid”. Prisoner said “What house do you mean?” A policeman coming up at the time, he gave prisoners in charge.

John Butland, a cabman, stated that he was on the stand near the harbour about eight o'clock the previous evening, when he saw the two prisoners standing near the wall. They afterwards went across the road. He saw Jones go into the Harbour Hotel, followed shortly afterwards by Allen. He saw them come out, and go together to South Street, and also saw them sharing the money. He went for the police.

Prisoners, who pleaded Guilty, were remanded for a week.

Folkestone Herald 29 August 1903.

Thursday, August 27th: Before Aldermen Banks and Salter, Lieut. Colonel Hamilton, and Mr. G.I. Swoffer.

Arthur Jones and James Allen were charged, on remand, with uttering a counterfeit coin, viz., a gilded sixpence.

The evidence given at the previous hearing was repeated.

Both prisoners were committed to take their trial at the next Quarter Sessions for the borough, bail being fixed at £50 each.

Folkestone Herald 17 October 1903.

Quarter Sessions.

Monday, October 12th: Before J.C.L. Coward Esq.

Arthur Jones (29), labourer, and James Allen (49), hawker, pleaded Guilty to “unlawfully and knowingly uttering one piece of false and counterfeit coin, apparently intended to pass for certain of the King's current gold coin, called a half sovereign, on the 19th August, 1903, at Folkestone”.

Counsel for the Crown, Mt. T. Matthews, said he was instructed that prisoners were both London criminals who had come down to Folkestone for the race meeting at Westenhanger in August last. By a trick known as “ringing the changes”....

Here the Recorder interposed with the remark that “ringing the changes” had nothing whatever to do with uttering counterfeit coins. It was an entirely different trick.

Continuing, Counsel pointed out that, whatever the process, the prisoner Jones went into the public house, called for a drink, handed a sovereign in payment, and received in the change half a sovereign, and the rest in silver and bronze. Having got a good half sovereign, prisoner substituted for it a gilded sixpence, and then asked for the whole of the change to be given him in silver, thus receiving 10s. for the counterfeit coin. This was done twice, though in both cases ultimately unsuccessful. In the first case it was seen to be a bad coin and the men were pursued. Jones denied having given the gilded sixpence, but he handed back the money he had received for it. Then they went to the Harbour Inn, where the same process was repeated. The landlord again had suspicions, and declined to accept any explanation, giving the man Jones in charge. Allen was subsequently arrested, and when searched another gilded sixpence was found upon him, which no doubt he intended to pass off in the same manner. In addition to the sentence of imprisonment, Mr. Matthews asked the Recorder, under powers which he was enabled to exercise, to say that there should be a period of police supervision, as it would then enable the police to keep their eye upon the men, so as to prevent them doing anything further of the sort, at any rate in the direction of making counterfeit coins.

With regard to the first case, the publican victimised, as stated in our report of the Police Court proceedings, was the landlord of the Red Cow, Foord.

Particulars concerning previous convictions against the two men were then given. Detective Sergeant Lee, of the London Force stated that on the 16th December, 1901, he was present at the Central Criminal Court when the prisoner Jones, in the name of Edward Connell, was sentenced to twenty months' hard labour for stealing £3 13s. 6d. from a till.

The Recorder: A stiff sentence for that.

The Detective: Hardly, after his “previouses”.

Proceeding, he said that Jones's criminal career commenced on the 18th of October, 1899, when, at the Southwark Police Court, he was fined 40s. or one month's hard labour for stealing money from a public house; on the 23rd of March, 1900, he was charged at the Guildhall Police Court for “ringing the changes”. On that occasion his previous convictions were not proved against him, and he was bound over.

The Recorder: “Ringing the changes” is one thing, and counterfeit coin another.

Witness: That is so.

Continuing, the detective said that prisoner Jones was at the time in company with two old convicts. At Epsom Petty Sessions, on the 26th of April, 1900, he was charged with stealing a pair of opera glasses from the racecourse, and was sentenced to 5 weeks' imprisonment with hard labour. Charged with attempted larceny at the South London Sessions on the 11th of July, 1902, he received fifteen months' hard labour. On that occasion he was working in concert with others, and was using a stick with some sticky substance at the end. Whilst his companion attracted the attention of the person in charge of the bar, the man with the stick picked up the gold.

With regard to Allen, Police Constable Gosling, of the Metropolitan Police stated that on the 6th of February, 1901, he was present at the North London Sessions when the prisoner Allen, in the name of James Slade, was convicted of attempted larceny and “ringing the changes”, receiving twelve months hard labour. There were other convictions recorded against him which he was not in a position to prove.

Chief Constable Reeve informed the Recorder that Allen's proper name was James Slade. On the 22nd of April, 1896, at Epsom, he was sentenced to three weeks' hard labour for the theft of an overcoat, whilst at the North London Sessions on the 19th April, 1898, he was given six months' hard labour for stealing a purse and money. One summary conviction, for unlawful possession, was recorded against him, as well as the conviction spoken to by the last witness.

In a written statement which he handed to the Recorder, Jones said he was 33 years of age, and up to four years ago he held a good character. Unfortunately at that time he fell into bad company and gave way to drink. Since then he had served three terms of imprisonment. Since his last discharge from prison he had led an honest life until he went to the races at Folkestone. He had been drinking heavily, and in the evening uttered the gilded sixpence. He begged for another chance, promising never to touch drink again. His wife's brother had promised to pay his fare to America, and he asked the Recorder not to let his past character weigh heavily against him. His correct name was Edward Connell, but being in drink he gave the name of Jones. He promised to leave the country at the expiration of the sentence passed upon him, and also to lead a sober and industrious life in the future. Under those circumstanced he begged the Recorder to grant him mercy.

Allen's defence was that this was the first time he had ever been in Folkestone, and he hoped it would be his last. He was fifty years of age, and had four children to support. Taking into consideration the time he had been waiting for his trial, having expressed his guilt in the first “onset”, he pleaded for the Recorder's mercy.

The Recorder, addressing the prisoners, said they had the worst record he had ever had before him since he had sat in that Court. They were the scum of the racecourse. He must pass a sentence upon them to keep them away from this sort of thing for some time to come, and he felt it his duty to accede to the request of Counsel for the Crown that they should be placed under police supervision. If Jones was allowed to go away the punishment would not act harshly upon him, and the sentence he passed upon each of them was imprisonment for twelve calendar months, with hard labour, with police supervision for three years.

Jones: Thank you.

They were then removed below.

Folkestone Herald 9 December 1905.

Wednesday, December 6th: Before Mr. E.T. Ward, Alderman W.G. Herbert, Lieut. Colonel Hamilton, Major Leggatt, and Mr. T. Ames.

The licence of the Red Cow, Folkestone, was transferred to Mr. Savage.

Folkestone Herald 14 July 1906.

Wednesday, July 11th: Before Councillor R.J. Fynmore, Lieut. Colonel Hamilton, and Mr. Linton.

Permission was granted to the proprietor of the Red Cow for some proposed alterations to the building.

Folkestone Herald 7 March 1908.

Friday, March 6th: Before Alderman J. Banks, Councillor G. Boyd, Major Leggett, Messrs. W.G. Herbert, and R.J. Linton.

Edward Flisher was charged with stealing four bottles of ale.

Frederick Wickenden, in the employ of Mr. Savage, landlord of the Red Cow, said at about ten minutes past five on Thursday he was in the public bar. He saw an arm reach over the counter of the private bar. The two bars were divided by a glass screen. He saw the hand take four bottles of ale. He went into the private bar, and there found the prisoner, who had a bag with him. He asked prisoner to hand over the bag, which contained four bottles of ale.

Albert Edward Nichols also gave evidence.

Albert Edward Savage, the landlord, deposed that he said to the prisoner “You stole these bottles of ale”. Accused replied “I got them from elsewhere”. He left the house when witness requested him, but returned later. Witness gave him into custody.

Nora Woodward, barmaid, having been called, P.C. Lemar deposed that, when given into custody, prisoner said “Don't be hard on me. I only stole two; the other two I bought and paid for them”.

Prisoner put in a written statement, in which he said that he had never had a stain on his character. He hoped they would deal leniently with him, and would not send him to prison. He would take good care that it would not happen again. It was only a sudden temptation that made him commit the offence.

Prisoner was sentenced to 14 days' hard labour.

Folkestone Herald 9 July 1910.

Friday, July 8th: Before Alderman T.J. Vaughan, Lieut. Col. Fynmore, and Alderman C. Jenner.

Albert Carter, on bail, was charged with being drunk and incapable. Prisoner pleaded Not Guilty.

P.S. Sales deposed that at about 2.30 the previous afternoon he was in Foord Road, near the Public Baths, when he saw the defendant very drunk. Defendant went away in the direction of Black Bull Road. Witness followed him, in company with P.C. Allen, and saw him go into the Imperial public house, where he was turned out by the landlord without being served. About a quarter of an hour later he went into the Red Cow, and was turned out of there also. He then went away in the direction of the Viaduct, and went up the steps leading into Derby Place, and had the greatest difficulty in getting up. Seeing that he was incapable of taking care of himself, witness took him into custody, with the assistance of P.C. Allen.

P.C. Allen and Sergt. Simpson corroborated as to the defendant's drunken condition.

Defendant said he had been laid up with consumption for five years. He had a glass or two to drink, and it overcame him. He had not worked for nine months. He had a job to walk about. He had been a ratepayer for 34 years, and that was the first offence he had had brought against him.

The Chairman stated that the Bench felt very sorry that prisoner was in that position. They had a duty to perform to the public, however, and he thought that the police were to be commended on their conduct, and the publicans, for not serving him in the condition he was in. A fine of 2s. 6d. and 6s. 6d. costs, or 7 days' imprisonment, was imposed, seven days being allowed in which to pay.

Folkestone Herald 23 July 1910.

Wednesday, July 19th: Before Messrs. W.G. Herbert, J. Stainer, and R.J. Linton.

Herbert Edward Savage was summoned for selling intoxicating liquor to a drunken person. Defendant pleaded Not Guilty. Mr. G.W. Haines appeared for the defendant, and Mr. Mowll, of Dover, represented Messrs. Leney and Co.

P.C. Sales said that about 2.30 p.m. on the 7th inst. he saw a man named Carter, who was drunk, in Foord Road, near the Public Baths. Shortly afterwards this man went into the Imperial public house. In company with P.C. Allen, witness then went into the Imperial, and called the landlord's attention to Carter's condition. The landlord sent Carter out without serving him. About half an hour later, from something he was told, witness, still in the company of P.C. Allen, went to the Red Cow Inn (kept by the defendant). There, in the bar known as the bottle and jug department, they saw Carter, who was sitting near the counter. Near him was a glass containing a quantity of drink. Witness did not know at the time what it was, but afterwards found out that it was rum. The barman was behind the counter, and witness asked him to fetch the landlord. The barman did so. Witness called the landlord's attention to Carter's condition, saying that he was drunk, and that he had been served. Defendant replied that he was very sorry, and that he did not know that Carter was in the house. The barman stated that he had served Carter. The landlord took the glass away. Carter was advised to leave the house, which he did. When he went out witness said to defendant “You see the man is drunk, don't you?” He replied “I am very sorry, sergeant”. Shortly afterwards Carter was locked up for drunkenness. He was near the Derby Place steps when witness and P.C. Allen arrested him.

Cross-examined by Mr. Haines, witness said that when he was in the Red Cow he did ask Carter to stand up. He got up without falling over, and without assistance. He walked down the road without assistance. Carter got part of the way up Derby Place steps, and then stopped. It was witness's opinion that he could not go any further. Carter might have been ill, but in witness's opinion he was undoubtedly drunk. There was a handrail part of the way up the steps.

P.C. Allen corroborated.

Cross-examined, witness stated that Carter was drunk when he first saw him, but got worse. There was no doubt he was drunk, as he reeled when he walked. When he stood up in the Red Cow he reeled, although he stood up without assistance. He walked down the road after he had left the Red Cow without assistance.

Percy William Attwood, the landlord of the Castle, said that he was on the flat roof of his premises at about 2.15 p.m. on the day in question, talking to a plumber who was doing some repairs. From what the plumber said he looked over into the road, and there saw Carter. Two policemen were watching him. Witness could not form any idea as to how he was walking as he came from the direction of the Red Cow, and witness could only see him side face. Carter came across the road, and started to kick up some dust that the roadmen had swept up. Witness then went downstairs into the bar, as he thought perhaps Carter might come into his house. Carter did come into the house, but witness told him that he would not be served.

P.S. Simpson said that he was on duty at the police office when Carter was brought in. There was no doubt that he was drunk.

Defendant, in the witness box, stated that he had been the landlord of the Red Cow for 5 years, and had been manager there for his sister for 11 years. During that time there had been nothing against the house. There were four bars in the house. He kept a barman, and always gave him instructions never to serve an intoxicated person. He knew Carter, but until he had been called into the bar by the policemen he had not seen him that day. Defendant told Carter to stand up, and also saw him walk out of the house. He stood up without assistance, and walked away all right. He had said he was sorry because he was sorry to see the man in that state.

George Barringer, the barman at the Red Cow, said that he had been in the house over four years. He was in the bar when Carter came in. He walked in all right, and asked for twopennyworth of rum. He sat down in the bar when he had been served. There was nothing in his appearance to suggest that he was drunk. Witness would not have served him had he been drunk.

Questioned by the Chief Constable, witness said Carter was only in the bar about four or five minutes on the outside on this occasion. He had been in the bar before that morning, and had had a similar drink.

William Chambers, a harness maker, residing at 123, Foord Road, stated that he was going out for a drive at about 2.30 p.m. on the day in question. His attention was drawn to Carter by the fact that the two policemen were following him. He did not know Carter at all, and was therefore not sure that he was the man that the police were following. The man that they had under observation was certainly not drunk. Witness added that he was not absolutely positive that the man he saw was the man in question.

The Bench, after a short deliberation in private, returned, and the Chairman said the case should be a warning to publicans and barmen in the future to look very carefully at their customers. It was all very well for them to say that they did not know that the man was drunk, but unfortunately the Act did not allow this as any defence. However, in view of the previous good character of the house, the Bench thought they might dismiss the case against Mr. Savage.

Folkestone Herald 21 October 1911.

Obituary.

We regret to record the death of Mr. Herbert Edward Savage, which sad event occurred on Monday. Mr. Savage had for several years been the proprietor of the Red Cow Inn, Foord Road, and was very popular among a large circle of friends. He had been ill for some time, but his death came rather unexpectedly. The funeral took place on Thursday afternoon.

Folkestone Herald 2 December 1911.

Wednesday, November 29th: Before Mr. J. Stainer, Major Leggett, and Mr. R.J. Linton.

Mr. De Wet applied on behalf of Mrs. Savage for the transfer of the licence of the Red Cow to her. The licence had been held by the applicant's husband, who had recently died. Mr. De Wet explained that the business had been carried on by the executors of the will, but the licence must be transferred at the first licensing sessions. He explained that the applicant's elder brother was going to help her with the business, and was to live constantly on the premises.

The application was granted.

Folkestone Herald 16 November 1912.

Tuesday, November 12th: Before The Mayor, Mr. E.T. Ward, Mr. W.G. Herbert, Mr. J. Stainer, Major G.E. Leggett, Mr. R.J. Linton, Mr. G. Boyd, Councillor W.J. Harrison, Mr. E.T. Morrison, and Councillor A. Stace.

Application was made for the temporary transfer of the licence of the Red Cow Inn from Mrs. Savage to Mr. George Summerfield, at present the landlord of the Royal Standard, Canterbury Road. It was explained that arrangements were being made for Mr. Summerfield's son to take over the licence of the Royal Standard.

The application was granted on the understanding that Mr. Summerfield Jun. went into the Red Cow for the time being until his father could take over the business.

Folkestone Herald 30 November 1912.

Wednesday, November 27th: Before Mr. E.T. Ward, Mr. W.G. Herbert, Mr. J. Stainer, Mr. G.I. Swoffer, Major G.E. Leggett, Mr. R.J. Linton, Mr. G. Boyd, and Councillor A. Stace.

The licence of the Red Cow, Foord Road, was temporarily transferred from Mrs. Savage to Mr. George Summerfield, and that of the Royal Standard was transferred from Mr. G. Summerfield to his son, Mr. John William Summerfield.

Folkestone Herald 24 February 1917.

Local News.

At the Folkestone Petty Sessions on Tuesday, Mr. W.H. Collard, late landlord of the Royal Oak, North Street, applied for the temporary transfer of the licence of the Red Cow, Foord, from Mr. G. Summerfield, who is relinquishing the business due to serious illness. The request was granted.

Folkestone Herald 10 March 1917.

Obituary.

Many will learn with regret that Mr. George Summerfield, of Canterbury Road, passed away on Sunday after a somewhat prolonged illness. Deceased was well-known as a licensed victualler. He aws for many years landlord of the Royal Standard, Canterbury Road, and latterly had carried on business at the Red Cow Inn, Foord Road. To meet his wish, his family had him removed to his old house (his son being licensee there now), where he died. The late Mr. Summerfield enjoyed the sincere esteem of a large circle. There was no keener supporter of football in Folkestone and he was an active member of the Radnor Park Bowls Club. In truth can it be said of him, whether in pastimes or other dealings with his fellows, he played a straight game. The Standard Sick and Dividend Club was his special pride, and his care for the Royal Victoria Hospital was well manifested in the many handsome collections which have been credited to the Royal Standard from time to time. To his widow and family there goes out a genuine sympathy. The funeral took place from the Royal Standard on Thursday.

Folkestone Herald 10 March 1917.

Adjourned Licensing Sessions.

Wednesday, March 6th: Before Mr. E.T. Ward, Lieut. Col. R.J. Fynmore, Mr. G.I. Swoffer, and Mr. H. Kirke.

The licences of the Chequers Inn, Seagate Street, the Red Cow, Foord, and Royal Oak, North Street, were respectively transferred Mr. Bert Nash, Mr. W. Collard, and Mr. H.W. Baldock.

The Chairman, addressing the licensees, impressed upon them the great necessity of taking the greatest care in the conduct of their businesses, whilst at the same time acknowledging their difficulties.

Folkestone Herald 6 December 1924.

Tuesday, December 2nd: Before Colonel G.P. Owen, Mr. G. Boyd, the Rev. H. Epworth Thompson, Mr. L.G.A. Collins, Colonel P. Broome-Giles, and Miss. A.M. Hunt.

William Henry Collar, the licensee of the Red Cow Inn, Foord Road, was summoned for delivering four quarts of ale on November 22nd without making an entry of the fact in his day book. Frederick Wickenden was summoned for delivering the ale without an invoice. Mr. Rutley Mowll appeared for the defence.

The Chief Constable (Mr. A.S. Beesley) said before any evidence was called that this was the first case they had had in the borough. The regulations were perfectly clear on the point, and there were really three offences, but they were only proceeding on one. Wickenden was employed by Collar. Defendants both pleaded Guilty.

Inspector Pittock said that about 11.30 a.m. on Saturday, November 22nd, he saw defendant Wickenden with a crate of beer leave the Red Cow Inn and go to 2, Pavilion Road. Witness asked defendant for his delivery note. Wickenden replied “What, for this?” Defendant said “I had it, but I expect I have lost it”. He saw Collar, told him he had just stopped Wickenden for not having a delivery note, and he asked him (Collar) for the day book. He replied “All right” and went to a bar. Defendant was away some time, and witness's suspicions were aroused. He went to the bar and saw the barman writing in a book, Collar looking over his shoulder. He asked defendant for the book and he found that the last invoice was dated 19th November. An attempt had been made to make out an invoice for Spicer, of Pavilion Road. He said to Collar “What is meant by this?”, and Collar replied “To tell the truth, I did not trouble much about it”. He told defendant he would report him, and he replied “It is a standing order”. The barman said “I gave him (Wickenden) a delivery note”. Wickenden said “I lost it”.

In reply to the Chief Constable, witness said when he examined the day book he found only one used invoice. Collar said he did not trouble to keep the counterfoils.

P.C. Lawrence also gave evidence.

Mr. Mowll said Collar had been a licensee for 24 years, and had been seven years licensee of the Red Cow Inn. It was just because it was one of the moments in a man's life when his good character stood in good stead. There was a laxity in the compliance with a quite modern rule, which required every licensee, in delivering anything like a crate of ale, to enter up the transaction in the day book, and have an invoice to deliver to the customer. Defendant ought to have done that, but he did not. They heard it was the first case brought before that Bench, and, although it was the duty of all licensed victuallers to keep the law, he did ask them to take into consideration defendant's good character, and the fact that he had never been summoned before. A case like that did a lot of good, for it brought things to the notice of other victuallers. Mr. Mowll suggested that the defendant's previous good character and record would justify the Bench in taking a certain course, viz., not to record a conviction against defendants, but to dismiss the case on payment of costs. He suggested it would be a warning, not only to his client, but others, that that sort of thing must not happen again. As regards Wickenden, he thought the responsibility was on the licensed victualler. The order for Spicer was a standing one, and there was an order for the delivery of a crate of ale once a week.

The Magistrates having retired, on their return the Chairman said that they had decided to dismiss the case on payment of costs. He wished to point out, however, that the regulations must be complied with. People who sold liquor should obey the law, and defendant, with his great experience, should have known.

Folkestone Herald 20 December 1924.

Wednesday, December 17th: Before Mr. G. Boyd, Mr. A. Stace, Alderman W. Dunk, Dr. W.W. Nuttall, and Col. P. Broome-Giles.

Ernest Alfred Clarke, Folkestone, was charged with fraudulently converting to his own use the sum of 9s., of which he was the trustee.

Police Sergeant Styles said that at 4.50 on the previous afternoon he was in the Police Office when the prisoner came and said that he wished to give himself up for embezzling funds belonging to the Red Cow public house share-out club, of which he had been acting as Secretary. Witness asked prisoner if he were serious, and he replied “Yes”. They had further conversation. Witness remained in the office until the arrival of Inspector Johnson.

Mr. William Henry Collar, the licensee of the Red Cow Inn, said that they had a thrift club at his house, which was called “The Red Cow Share-Out Club”. The Secretary of the club was prisoner, and he (witness) was Treasurer. The members attended at his house between the hours of 7 and 8.30 every Tuesday evening for the purpose of paying in their contributions, which ranged from threepence upwards. Each member had a card. The contributions were paid direct to prisoner, whose duty it was to enter the amount received on the card and return the card to the paying member. Defendant also kept the Secretary's account book (produced), and it was his duty to enter into that, at the time of receipt, all sums received. On the 15th April last witness paid prisoner 10s., and he entered the receipt on his card. He referred to the Secretary's account and found that the amount entered there was 1s. only. At the close of the weekly meetings it was prisoner's duty to pay over to him, as Treasurer, the money received by him from the members, for which he gave him a receipt from the counterfoil receipt book (produced). He referred to the receipt book, and on reference to receipt and counterfoil No. 15 found that he received from defendant at the close of the meeting on the 15th of April £5 2s., for which he gave him the receipt produced, entering the amount received on the counterfoil. When he received those amounts he did not check the amount he received with the amount appearing in the Secretary's book. On the previous afternoon defendant attended at his house by appointment, for the purpose of getting the money ready for distribution to the members at the annual share-out. Prisoner brought with him the Secretary's book, the receipts (produced) for the year's payments to witness, and a box containing some numbered envelopes, bearing the names of the members of the club, most of the members' cards, some of which had not been brought in, and the amount paid in by each member in prisoner's handwriting. The money that he (witness) received from defendant was paid by him into a deposit account with Messrs. Leney and Company, his brewers, who allowed him five percent interest. He had received from Messrs. Leney a cheque for £291 2s. 3d., representing the year's payments. He had in hand the sum of £27 13s. 4d., representing the last two or three weeks' contributions from the members, which was not deposited with the brewers. He (witness) cashed the cheque ready for the share-out, and the prisoner counted the money to see that it was correct. Accused then turned round and said “I shall have to ask you to assist me”. He said “What for? Are you behind in your accounts?” Prisoner said “Yes”. He asked prisoner “How much are you behind?”, and he said “£88”. Witness replied “You will get no £88 out of me. The best thing you can do is go to the police station and give yourself up”. Prisoner said that was what he would do, and then defendant left the house.

Inspector R. Bourne said that in the absence of the Chief Constable he asked for a remand in custody until Tuesday.

Mr. Boyd asked if Mr. Collar ever saw the prisoner's book.

Witness: It is no business of mine.

Mr. Boyd remarked that he would have thought witness would have looked through the book, and then asked if the Club's Committee ever attended.

Mr. Collar replied that it was very seldom that they had a Committee meeting.

Mr. Boyd: All the more reason why you as Treasurer should attend and see to it.

The Magistrates' Clerk (to prisoner): Do you apply for bail?

Defendant said that he had no money, but would like to apply for bail.

Inspector Bourne stated that he was instructed to oppose bail.

The Chairman said that the Bench had decided to allow prisoner bail, himself in £25, and two sureties of £25 each, or one in £50, subject to the approval of the police.

Prisoner would be remanded until Monday.

Folkestone Herald 27 December 1924.

Monday, December 22nd: Before Mr. G. Boyd, Alderman Dunk, and Dr. W.W. Nuttall.

Ernest Alfred Clarke was charged on remand with fraudulently converting to his own use money belonging to the Red Cow share-out club.

The Clerk (Mr. J. Andrew) stated that the charge against prisoner was now that he received on April 15th, and on two dates subsequently £7 3s., £8 4s. 9d., and £6 18s., and he was charged with fraudulently converting to his own use part of these amounts, on the first date £2 1s., on the second £2 16s. 9d., and on the third £1 12s.

The evidence given at the last hearing having been read over, Mr. W.H. Collar, said he had examined the Secretary's book, containing entries in the prisoner's handwriting of the sums he admitted to have received from the members of the share-out club on the members' weekly nights. He referred to the book containing the amounts for the 15th of April, the date on which he personally paid the prisoner 10s.as his own contribution. On that occasion he received from prisoner £5 2s., for which he gave him the receipt (produced), taken from the cash receipt book. Prisoner signed the corresponding counterfoil. Witness had checked the amount appearing in the Secretary's book from the members amounting to £7 3s. He never received from prisoner the deficiency of £2 1s. Witness next referred to the account of June 24th, when he received £5 8s. at the close of the meeting from prisoner. He gave prisoner a receipt for that, taken from the counterfoil receipt book. The prisoner signed the corresponding counterfoil. He had checked the amount appearing in the Secretary's book on that date as contributions received by him from the members, amounting to £8 4s. 9d. Witness had never received from prisoner the deficiency of £2 16s. 9d. Mr. Collar also referred to the account for the 25th of November, on which date he received from defendant the sum of £5 6s., for which he gave him a receipt (produced), taken from the counterfoil receipt book. Prisoner signed the corresponding counterfoil. He had checked the amounts appearing in the Secretary's account book on that date as contributions received by him from members, amounting to £6 18s. Witness had never received from him the deficiency of £1 12s. He had checked prisoner's account book of contributions received by him from the 1st of January last to December 9th. The total amount received by prisoner was £396 4s. 3d. In the same period witness received from prisoner £315 13s. 9d., which showed a deficiency of £80 10s. 6d. There were 119 members of the share-out club. He had since the last hearing examined the whole of the members' cards, and prepared a statement (produced), showing the entries in Clarke's handwriting. The statement showed a receipt by the prisoner of £406 1s. in the period stated. He had recompensed the members for their loss. Prisoner had been Secretary of the club for over seven years.

Prisoner said he did not wish to ask the witness any questions.

Detective Inspector Johnson stated that he received prisoner into custody on the 16th of December, and told him he would be charged with stealing, on April 15th, 1924, the sum of 9s., the property of William Henry Collar. He cautioned prisoner, who made no reply. That morning he formally charged prisoner with fraudulently converting to his own use three sums of £2 1s., £2 16s. 9d., and £1 12s., part of larger sums received by him for the use of the members of the Red Cow Share-Out Club, on the 15th April and two subsequent dates. He cautioned accused, who replied “All right”.

Defendant said that he did not wish to say anything.

The Chairman said that they had no alternative but to commit prisoner for trial at the Kent Assizes. It was not a case they could deal with, and it could not be dealt with by the Recorder. Bail would be allowed in one surety of £25 and himself in £25, with twenty four hours' notice to the police.

Folkestone Herald 28 February 1925

Local News.

At the Kent Winter Assizes at Maidstone, before Mr. Justice Finlay, on Wednesday afternoon, Ernest Alfred Clarke, aged 51, described as a chauffeur, pleaded Guilty to an indictment against him that he, having been entrusted by the members of the Red Cow Share-Out Club with three several sums of £7 13/-, £8 4/9, and £6 18/- for a certain purpose, and having received the same for and on behalf of the members, fraudulently converted three sums of £2 1/-, £2 16/9, and £1 12/-, part thereof, to his own use and benefit, at Folkestone, on April 15th, 1924.

Mr. W.A. Wardley prosecuted, and Mr. Waddy appeared for the accused.

The prisoner was given a good character. It was said that he was well known in Folkestone, that he had been employed as a coachman, and more recently as a chauffeur. When the share out time came he admitted that he was short, and went and gave himself up to the police.

Mr. Waddy saiud Clarke had been Secretary of the Red Cow Club for seven years. At the time of the offence he was employed as a chauffeur to a local doctor, and had been so employed for fourteen years. Part of his punishment was losing that employment. His wages were 35/- a week, and he had a wife and eight children to keep. The man paid 10/- a week rent, so it was very easy for him to be financially embarrassed, and be in difficulties. He was tempted and took the money. He had been in prison nine weeks, and Counsel asked His Lordship to make that the more substantial part of his sentence.

Mr. Justice Finlay said he could see there were real circumstances of mitigation, and also that the temptation was real and strong. Taking all the circumstances of the case into consideration, although bound to send Clarke to prison, it would only be for a short time. His Lordship passed sentence of two months imprisonment in the second division.

Folkestone Herald 12 October 1929.

Local News.

The transfer of several licences was approved by the Folkestone Magistrates at the Folkestone transfer sessions on Wednesday. Mr. Arthur Macilbean was granted a protection order in respect of the licence of the Red Cow, formerly held by the late Mr. Harry William Collar.

Notes: No record of Macilbean in More Bastions. Date is also at variance with More Bastions.

Obituary.

We regret to announce the death, on Tuesday, of Mr. William Henry Collar, licensee of the Red Cow Inn, Black Bull Road.

Deceased, who was in his 62nd year, had been landlord of the Red Cow for 13 years. He had previously held the licence of the Royal Oak, North Street, for a considerable period.

The late Mr. Collar, who was a native of Whitstable, was at one time in the employ of the Folkestone Corporation.

Much sympathy will be felt for his son and daughter.

Folkestone Herald 21 June 1930.

Felix.

This is a thoroughly up-to-date age, and nearly everything tends to prove it. At Foord (once the village of Ford, owing to the vicinity of an open stream) there stands one of Folkestone's oldest – if not the oldest – hostelries. The interior of the building with its heavy oak beams, its winding narrow passages and wooden corkscrew staircase proclaim this fact. The old inn has been painted up and presents quite a smart appearance. Over the front of the entrance hangs a nicely painted signboard. In large lettering there appear these words; “The Red Cow”, whilst directly underneath is a pictorial representation of an elephant – tusks, trunk and all. Below this is the one word, Fremlin. “That is the strangest cow I have ever seen” remarked an excursionist when viewing the pictorial representation on Saturday. This is taking a long glance. At a closer inspection one can read “Fremlin's ales and stout are the best”. The elephant is the trademark of the firm. But taking a rapid and distant glance one cannot fail to indulge in a smile at the large words “Red Cow” with a big tusker underneath. Mr. H. Cork owns the “Cow” (not the elephant), and it may be this is the particular milker of which the poet sings so touchingly:- “If I had a cow that gave such milk, I'd clothe her in the finest silk, Feed her on the finest hay, And milk her forty times a day”.

Folkestone Herald 31 May 1941.

Local News.

An 18 years’ old member of the Home Guard was fatally wounded as the result of a street incident on Friday night last week. The tragedy occurred in Pavilion Road shortly before 11 p.m. Archibald Frank Voller, manager of his father’s newsagent’s shop in that road, had been in conversation with another man when he collapsed from a bayonet wound.

Voller, who had been on Home Guard duty and was in uniform, had just before withdrawn his bayonet from its scabbard. He was removed to the Royal Victoria Hospital, where he died shortly after admission.

Christopher George Watson, a 41 years' old unemployed cycle engineer, living next door to Voiler, appeared before the local Magistrates on Monday on a charge of manslaughter. He was acquitted.

At the inquest on Wednesday, a jury returned a verdict of accidental death.

Police Court Proceedings.

A charge of manslaughter in connection with Voller's death was preferred against Christopher George Watson, (41), of Pavilion Road, Folkestone, and he appeared before the Folkestone Magistrates on Monday.

The Mayor presided, with Alderman R.G. Wood and Mr. Percy Fuller.

Watson was charged that on May 23rd at Folkestone he unlawfully stabbed Voller, through which injuries he died on May 24th, and it was alleged he thereby killed him.

To Watson the Magistrates' Clerk said “You are not represented anybody?” to which defendant said that that was so but he might be at a further hearing.

Det. Sergt. Bates said at 2 a.m. on Saturday, May 24th, he went to 56, Pavilion Road. He knocked at the door and it was answered by Watson.

He told Watson that he was a police officer and informed him that Archibald Frank Voller, who had been injured as the result of a bayonet wound late the previous evening, had died. As a result he (Watson) would be taken into custody. After being cautioned Watson replied “Oh, no, no, but I think it was his own fault”. He brought defendant to the police station and on arrival he said “We had a scuffle, he drew his bayonet at me and I went for him and grabbed him by the wrist and took it away. He must have fallen on it”. Watson then pointed to his own jacket, which was torn right side, and said "'This was done in the scuffle". Defendant’s breath smelt of port wine, but he was not drunk. At 7 p.m. on Saturday he charged Watson with the offence. He was again cautioned and he replied “Well, I say I never stabbed him; it was done in a scuffle”. After bringing Watson to the police station witness went to accused's house. Outside, on the pavement, and in the front porch of the house he saw a number of spots of blood. In the back room, in the kitchen occupied by the defendant, he found several pieces of cotton wool saturated with blood; also a bloodstained face flannel which was on the table ip class="address"the kitchen. In the bedroom, in the front of the house, on the dressing table, he saw a number of bottles. There was a full pint bottle of Cockspur white wine and a pint bottle of Mercury white wine half full: one quart and four pint bottles which had contained wine were empty. Witness later went to the Royal Victoria Hospital and took possession of deceased’s clothing, consisting of a battle dress jacket and trousers, two woollen pullovers and a shirt. On examining them he found a tear in each garment on the right side, above the waist line. He took possession of the rifle and bayonet produced. Three inches above the point of the bayonet were bloodstains.

At this stage the hearing was adjourned until the following day.

After hearing further evidence on Tuesday, the Magistrates discharged Watson on a charge of manslaughter, it being stated that the evidence of what happened during the scuffle was not sufficient to justify defendant's committal for trial.

Ronald H. Fisher, of 67, Guildhall Street, a milk roundsman and a member of the Home Guard, said he knew Voller, also a member of the Home Guard, having been friendly with him for about 11 months. He attended a parade with him at 8 p.m. on Friday last. They paraded in uniform with rifle, bayonet and ammunition. They came away from the parade at 9.30 p.m. and went to Red Cow public house, Foord Road. They remained there until 10.30. During that time Voller had two pints of ale and beer mixed. On leaving Voller went in the direction of Black Bull Road and witness went up Ship Street.

The Clerk: When Voller went away and left you was he in ordinary condition?

Witness: Yes, perfect.

Perfectly sober? - Yes.

Defendant: When you came into the shop just before tea-time that evening there was a young lady in the shop, wasn’t there?

Witness: Yes.

Answering further questions, witness said there appeared to be no sign of jealousy on the part of Voller while he was in the shop. He (Fisher) agreed that he said he was in a hurry and flourished his bayonet in the shop.

Dennis Harold Boss, 25, Pavilion Road, a baker's assistant, said on Friday night about 10.40 he was going along Pavilion Road. He knew Voller and saw him outside his house. He was dressed in Home Guard uniform and he was talking to Watson. At the time witness was on the other side and before he crossed the road Voller said “Halt, who goes there?” the challenge being addressed to witness, who then crossed the road.

Voller had a rifle slung over his right shoulder, and on his left hand side he was carrying a bayonet in a sheath. Deceased left Watson, and witness and Voller walked about halfway to witness’s house. Voller then said “Cheerio”, turned and went back. It was rather dark at the time, but he could see across the road; not well enough, however, to recognise a person on the other side.

Frederick Charles Curtis, 110. Foord Road, a builder s labourer, said on Friday night he went to defendant’s home at 9 p.m. They talked about 20 minutes and he then left the house to get Watson a bottle of Cockspur wine. Witness returned to defendant's house about 10.20. After having a glass of wine with Watson he left again. After leaving the house they stood outside talking on the pavement. As they were talking a young man in uniform (Voller) came along. He stopped in front of defendant and they were speaking a lot, but witness did not take any notice of what they were saying. He did hear Watson say “Your papers have come”. He also heard defendant say “I could hit you like this (making a sweep with his arm) and knock you to Ashford’’, adding “Of course I am only talking silly”. Witness took this for a joke. He thought by the way Voller spoke he had had a drink or two. Voller came back after accompanying the previous witness (Boss) along the road some distance. Watson said something about it being a nice rifle Voller had. There was some talk about papers and Watson gave deceased money for papers. A little later Voller put one foot on the pavement and drew his bayonet. Voller then tried to pierce Watson with the bayonet several times, saying “This has a nice sharp point”, or something like that. Voller appeared to be serious. Watson dodged back and said “You better put that away, it's very dangerous". There was a sort of scuffle, Watson closing to take the bayonet away. He thought he did take it away. Witness was about 6ft. away and he could not see him take it. Voller fell to the ground as though wounded. Witness said to defendant “Surely you haven’t done anything to him'’, and Watson said “Surely, no”. Watson beckoned to him to help. Defendant undid Voller’s tunic and he saw Watson put the bayonet back into its sheath. That was the first time he knew defendant had the bayonet. They took Voller in defendant's house. Inside the house Watson got some wadding and placed it on the wound. Defendant also told him to get a doctor or an ambulance. Witness went to the A.R.P. depot outside the hospital, saw Mr. Nash there, and returned with him to the house.

The Clerk: How did the scuffle begin?

Witness: Voller was challenging defendant with the bayonet. Watson dodged out of the way.

Answering further questions, witness said defendant was trying to take the bayonet away. Up to then he thought Voller was only playing about. Watson went to him to try to take the bayonet away. Later he saw the bayonet lying on the pavement. There were two distinct scuffles.

The Mayor: What was your condition? You don't seem to have had a very clear idea of what happened. What was the argument just before this happened – the argument which caused this man to draw his bayonet?

Witness: I don't know.

The Mayor: People don't draw bayonets for nothing.

The Clerk (to Curtis): You don't give one the impression that you are trying to tell the Magistrates all that happened. That is all they want to know. Where was the rifle after deceased had fallen?

Curtis: I believe it dropped off his shoulder. I am not sure.

The Clerk (to Curtis): I have been bound to press you a little about this because it does not sound as though you are trying to help the Magistrates as to what happened.

The Magistrates retired at this point and on their return the Clerk said this was the only evidence that could be given as to what happened. That being so the Magistrates were not satisfied that they could commit defendant for trial on the evidence. The defendant would therefore be discharged.

Inquest.

The Folkestone Coroner (Mr. B.H. Bonniface) opened an inquest on Voller at the Town Hall 6n Monday afternoon. Mr. Bonniface, who sat with a jury, said he had been informed that a man had been charged with manslaughter. That being so it was only necessary for them that day to hear evidence of identification and as to the cause of death. Then he proposed with their approval to adjourn the inquest until Wednesday by which time he understood the Magistrates would have investigated the charge of manslaughter and would have taken some course or another. It might be that when the enquiry was resumed they would only be kept a few moments and after that they might not be called again.

Mr. G. P. Medlicott watched the proceedings on behalf of deceased's father, who was the first witness.

Frank William Voller, of Sea-light, Lydd-on-Sea, a newsagent, father of the deceased, gave evidence of identification. He added that his son managed his newsagents' business at 58, Pavilion Road, and was a member of the Home Guard.

Mr. Raymond A. Hill, house surgeon at the Royal .Victoria Hospital, said Voller was brought to the hospital at 11.20 p.m. on Friday. At the time he was collapsed and semi-conscious. On first examination deceased appeared to be moribund from haemorrhage resulting from a stabbed wound of the abdomen. He was placed in an electrically healed bed and a blood transfusion was given. He made no recovery and died at 12.30 a.m. on Saturday. The cause of death was haemorrhage due to a perforating wound of the liver.

The Coroner: Had deceased-been attending the hospital at all?

Witness: I had seen him on two occasions, on May 16th and. May 23rd as an out patient. He had a strain of his right knee.

The Coroner: In any sort of struggle might that knee have affected him?

Witness: I don't think so; he had practically recovered from it.

The inquest was at this stage adjourned until Wednesday.

A verdict of accidental death was returned by the jury at the adjourned inquest on Wednesday afternoon at the Town Hall.

New evidence, including a statement Watson had made to a police officer, was given during the proceedings, at the beginning of which the Coroner informed the Jury that a man (Watson), charged with the manslaughter of Voller, had been discharged by the Magistrates. That being so, he added, he proposed to continue the inquest and call all the witnesses before them.

Dennis H. Boss, who gave evidence at the police court, said he saw Watson and Voller talking together in a friendly way in Pavilion Road about 10.40 on Friday night. Voller's breath smelt of alcohol but he was sober.

Frederick Charles Curtis, the next witness, described, as he had at the police court, what he saw. “After pulling out his bayonet”, witness said, Voller said “There’s a nice point” and added “I will put this through you”. He then made several lunges at Watson with the bayonet. Watson jumped out of the way and said "Put that thing away, it’s a very dangerous thing to have’’. Then there was a scuffle and he saw Voller fall.

The Coroner: Did you see the bayonet when deceased fell? - No.

Witness said to Watson "Surely you haven’t done anything to the chap” and Watson spoke to deceased but witness could not say what he said. At no time did he see Watson with the bayonet in his hand.

After they had carried the man into the house Voller said “Have I been pricked?” or something like that. Deceased never accused Watson of stabbing him with the bayonet. Watson sent witness for a doctor and ambulance. When he saw Voller draw the bayonet it appeared to him that deceased was serious.

Albert Ernest Nash, 34, Bolton Road, Deputy Commandant A.R.P. Mobile Unit adjoining the hospital, said Curtis came to them about 11 p.m. and stated that a soldier had been stabbed in Pavilion Road.

Witness went to 56, Pavilion Road and saw deceased lying on the floor of a room. He was conveyed to the hospital.

Inspector C. Haestie said he went to Watson's house about 11.50 p.m. On seeing witness Watson said “I thought someone would be along”. Witness said “Do you know anything of a man being stabbed near here this evening?" Watson replied “Yes I will tell you what happened”.He cautioned Watson, who then said that at about 10.45 p.m. he was standing outside his house talking to Curtis. The statement went on: “I saw Archie Voller, who lives next door at No. 58, coming along Pavilion Road from the direction of Black Bull Road. He was dressed in Home Guard uniform and had a rifle slung over his shoulder. As he came by us we entered into conversation. I noticed he had been drinking; he was unsteady on his feet and was excited. As we were talking a youth went by who I believe is named Boss, who lives nearby. Voller went over and spoke to him for a couple of minutes and then returned to us. When he came back he drew his bayonet from the scabbard on his belt and said “See this. I’ll stick it through you”. He then lunged at me with the bayonet and tore my jacket about one and a half inches. I told him I would take it from him and closed with him and took the bayonet from him. Before he lunged at me he said he had five rounds in his rifle. As soon as I had taken the bayonet from him he fell towards me. I had the bayonet in my left hand which was pulled back. The bayonet pierced him in the stomach and he collapsed. I then realised he had fallen on the bayonet. He said “It's my fault for sparring about”. I sent Curtis to get assistance. At the time this occurred it was getting dusk. There was no quarrel between Voller and me. It was an accident and entirely his own fault”.

The Coroner: Was Watson perfectly sober?

Witness: Yes.

Did you see a rifle and bayonet there? – Yes, on the floor in the room.

Witness said he examined the bayonet and about three inches from the point he found traces of blood.

Miss Beatrice M. Adams, a nurse at the Royal Victoria Hospital, said she was on duty when deceased was admitted at 11.20 p.m. While deceased was in the out-patients' department she asked him how it happened. His condition was very, very poor, but he replied “We were playing about”. Just before midnight a police officer visited him in the ward and asked Voller if it was an accident and he replied “Yes, I think so”. The constable then asked him who did it and he replied “Watson”.

The Coroner then called Watson, who reminded him of the statement he had made to Inspector Haestie.

Watson was then sworn. He stated he was a cycle engineer at present unemployed. There was nothing he wished to add to the statement he made to Inspector Haestie.

“Would you like to tell me whether you had a quarrel that night?”, said the Coroner.

“There was no quarrel. Mr. Voller was getting high pitched”, replied Watson. "There were just a few words in regard to papers. I told him his papers had come and he said “Never mind about them”.

The Coroner: You had no intent ion of hurting him in any way? - No. sir.

The Coroner: Is it correct what has been said to all intents and purposes that it was an entire accident?

Watson: Yes, a complete accident.

The Coroner, addressing the jury, said as he had told them Watson appeared before the Magistrates and the charge of manslaughter was dismissed. It was therefore not for them to consider the question of manslaughter any further, the man having been acquitted.

Without retiring, the jury, after a brief deliberation, found that deceased met his death accidentally.

Mr. Voller was born at Willesborough, near Ashford, and was the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. F.W. Voller, of Lydd-on-Sea. Educated at Willesborough Schools he was captain of the soccer side and afterwards played for Willesborough Old Boys. He came to Folkestone about two years ago to manage his father’s newsagent’s business. He joined the Home Guard when it was formed last year and had been a most enthusiastic and keen member. A member of St. John’s Church, he was on the committee of the tennis club associated with the Church.

Folkestone Herald 11 April 1942.

Local News.

Folkestone Magistrates on Tuesday granted a protection order to Mr. John A. Miles, of Dover, who is taking over from Mr. Henry Cork the licence of the Red Cow Inn. Mr. Miles, it was stated, had been for a number of years the licensee of a house which was blitzed last autumn.

Folkestone Herald 25 April 1942.

Local News.

At a Transfer Sessions, held at the Folkestone Police Court on Wednesday, several licences were dealt with.

Alderman R.G. Wood presided with Alderman J.W. Stainer.

Folkestone Herald 21 November 1942.

Local News.

The funeral of Mr. J.A. Miles, of the Red Cow inn, Foord Road, Folkestone, took place at Hawkinge on Tuesday. The Rev. A.L. Lawler, Priest-in-charge of St. Johns, officiated at a service at St. John's church previous to the interment.

Folkestone Herald 9 January 1943.

Local News.

At a licensing transfer sessions at the Town Hall, Folkestone, on Wednesday, the licence of the Red Cow, Foord Road, was transferred from the late Mr. John Arthur Miles to his widow.

Folkestone Herald 12 May 1979.

Local News.

Children at Parkfield Special School, Folkestone, have been presented with a stereo cassette and a record player by a local pub. Mr. and Mrs. Geoffrey Biggs, landlord and landlady of the Red Cow, Foord Road, Folkestone, and their customers, raised nearly £150 through various events in the past year. The cassette and record player were presented to the school by the pub’s darts team at the East Cliff Pavilion, Folkestone. The children use the equipment every morning during play sessions and at other times during the day.

“The record players we have had before have been big and bulky”, teacher Mrs. Jean Vincent said. “This one is compact and easy to carry about. It also has a tape recorder for cassettes which we did not have before. I am teaching one of the boys to use the tape himself to record his stories”.

Folkestone Herald 5 February 1982.

Local News.

Burglars broke in through the front door of the Red Cow pub in Foord Road, Folkestone, last Monday night, and stole a video recorder, 12 video cassettes and £400.

Folkestone Herald 24 June 1983.

Advertising Feature.

Anyone walking into the Red Cow pub in Foord Road after a few months' absence could be forgiven for wondering if they were in the right place For what before Christmas was a basic spit 'n' sawdust local has been transformed into an attractive and elegant hostelry set to compete with some of the smartest places in town. The original public and saloon bars have been knocked into one and a special eating area has been set aside. In fact the whole pub has been modernised and improved, but with the installation of false beams and the carefully selected decor, the atmosphere is very much one of bygone days.

Landlord and landlady Geoff and Joan Biggs are delighted as are their regulars and an ever increasing number of new customers. But for them the virtual overnight transformation of the Red Cow marks the end of a long, long wait. Fourteen years ago the couple, who have been in the licensed trade since 1938, ran the old Foresters Arms in Shellons Street, Folkestone. It was a thriving business, regularly packed and serving umpteen lunches every day. But their success was short-lived. A compulsory purchase order forced them to move and they took over the Red Cow with high hopes of improving it. They made repeated requests to the brewery but it was 13 years before they got the go-ahead for their new-look pub. “People have to pay a lot of money for drinks these days. It is only right that they get something a little bit special in return”, says Geoff.

Folkestone Herald 9 September 1983.

Local News.

A pub landlord has died after a lifetime in the licensed trade. Mr. Geoffrey Biggs, landlord at the Red Cow in Folkestone's Foord Road, died in the early hours of last Thursday, apparently from a heart attack. His death at the age of 63 came as a shock to his wife Joan, son Stephen, daughter Vicky and many friends. He had been a publican in the town for nearly 20 years. Mr. Biggs had been landlord at the Red Cow for 15 years. Before taking over he was at the Foresters Arms in Shellons Street, Folkestone. He and his wife have wanted to improve the Red Cow since they first moved there and in June their dreams came true when modernisation work was completed. Well-known in the town, Mr. Biggs was heavily involved in the darts leagues. A funeral service takes place today at Hawkinge.

Folkestone Herald 24 January 1992.

Local News.

Publicans are prepared to lose their jobs and homes rather than sign new leases they say could double their rents. Half the publicans in Fover being offered these contracts and two thirds in Shepway are rebelling, say the local branches of the Licensed Victuallers' Association.

“It's like signing a suicide pact, and I won't do it”, says Rick Abbott, who runs the Cricketers in River. He added “I have a wife and three children and we would lose our home, but we would be ruined if I signed”.

Big breweries, with more than 2,000 pubs in the country, are selling pubs or offering 20-year leases because the Monopolies and Mergers Commission is restricting how many they can have.

Alf Bentley, landlord of the Red Lion in Charlton Green, Dover, said “This is as ill-conceived as the poll tax. What use is a 20-year lease to me when I am 60? The breweries are also driving out experienced landlords and replacing them with people who were probably bakers before”.

Leslie Carpenter, of Carpenter's in The Stade, Folkestone, said “My own rent will only go up by a third, but I couldn't even manage that. I am prepared to lose my job rather than accept. It's hard enough to survive with the recession. We've just lost more customers through the Sealink redundancies”.

The L.V.A. says the increases would further damage pubs because landlords would have to put up their prices to try to survive. They say the cost of a pint is now pushing £2.

Only last week Barry Musk walked out of the pub where he had been a tenant for four years, the Red Cow, in Foord Road, Folkestone. He now manages a free house, the Imperial, in Black Bull Road. He said “Signing would have meant my rent going up from £12,000 a year to £20,000, which would have ruined me. I was lucky because I found another pub without that kind of expense”.

All four pubs are owned by Whitbread. A spokesman said the company was willing to negotiate with landlords if they could not afford new rents. “The LVA claims that rents will double, but I dispute that. Our own survey shows that overall rents have increased by just 45 percent”, he added. Whitbread says Government legislation has been put it and other brewers in a dilemma. The new Landlord and Tenant Act gives publicans security of tenure, yet the Monopolies Commission says brewers must get rid of pubs.

Folkestone Herald 1 May 1992.

Local News.

A bankruptcy order has been made against Barry and Victoria Musk, of Alder Road, Folkestone. The couple used to run and live at the Red Cow Inn, Foord Road, Folkestone. The petition was filed at Canterbury Crown Court by the Musks, and the Official Receiver has been appointed to safeguard their assets.

Folkestone Herald 22 May 1992.

Local News.

We would like to point out that despite a bankruptcy order being made against Barry and Victoria Musk, who used to run the Red Cow Inn, the pub itself has not closed. The inn, which is in Foord Road, Folkestone, has been taken over by Jim and Madeleine Tansey. We would like to apologise for any misunderstanding our story about the Red Cow in our May 1 edition may have caused.

Folkestone Herald 5 August 1993.

Local News.

A man who conned a salesman out of a £90 car, attempted to break into a pub, and then burgled a house in Folkestone has been jailed for 18 months.

Canterbury Crown Court heard that at the time of the burglary Sxcott Doherty was wanted on warrant for failing to appear before local Magistrates. Doherty, 25, from Glasgow, admitted obtaining the Vauxhall from Peter Kent by deception in March, 1991, attempted burglary at the Red Cow three months later and burglary at Jointon Road a year later.

Julian Woodbridge, prosecuting, said Doherty used the name Tagford when he obtained the car for £90 from Mr. Kent at Kent Car Breakers in Dover. He signed a cheque in the name of Tagford, the cheque having come from a cheque book stolen in an earlier burglary in Folkestone. In June Doherty was caught by an off-duty policeman, who spotted Doherty and another man by the Red Cow at Foord Road early in the morning. Doherty was then bailed to appear at Folkestone Magistrates' but failed to turn up. In August, 1992, he broke into a house in Jointon Road and stole property worth £1,185. He was traced because of his fingerprints, but was not arrested until January this year.

Cairns Nelson, defending, said his crimes stemmed from heroin addiction, but since serving a three month sentence in Scotland he had been drug free.

Folkestone Herald 14 September 1995.

Local News.

Liverpool soccer fan Steve Gill had a hair-raising ordeal after his side were beaten by Wimbledon. His head was shaved in front of a cheering crowd packing the Red Cow pub in Foord Road, Folkestone, on Saturday night.

Liverpudlian Steve, of Marshall Street, Folkestone, runs the Kent Reds Liverpool Travel Supporters Club. He was joined by three mates for the shaves. The brave four had a sponsored “grade one”, leaving a little on top, to raise hundreds of pounds for Parkfield Special School in Folkestone and the William Harvey Hospital Cancer Day Care Centre.

Steve, married with two children, was joined by Phil Walker, Shane England, and Tony Bennett, 23-year-old son of Red Cow landlord, Liverpudlian Louis Bennett. Hairdresser les Neill did the cuts before having his own hair cut close. And soon other Red Cow customers were getting theirs done while a bucket was sent round the pub for more money.

Steve said afterwards “I'll be wearing a wig for a time!” Raffle prizes included a football signed by the Liverpool team.

Folkestone Herald 12 March 1998.

Local News.

Regulars at a Folkestone pub have raised enough money to buy seven vital communication devices for children with special needs. Customers and staff at the Red Cow in Foord Road, Folkestone, filled a collection bottle with £290, and the figure was matched by local firm Breda Transport. The cash will be used to buy a number of “BIGMacks” for pupils at the Foxwood School in Seabrook Road. BIGMacks are saucer-shaped devices which record messages and aid communication. Red Cow landlord, Louis Bennett, said “We try to do quite a bit for charity and we like to raise money for local causes. We are only too happy to help and I am really grateful to all our customers”.

Foxwood head-teacher Chris Soulby said “I can't thank the people at the Red Cow enough. The children at the school will benefit greatly from this money, and they, too, will be very grateful”.

Folkestone Herald 12 August 1999.

Local News.

Veterans of the great Folkestone floods have had their annual celebration scuppered by licensing laws. Plans to hold the party in the garden of the Red Cow, Foord Road, were ruined after the pub was told it could not hold live music outdoors. Organisers refused to hold the bash indoors because it meant children who suffered through the floods three years ago would not be allowed in.

Now Louis Bennett, landlord of the pub for three years, said it would be business as usual on Sunday. He said “We feel this is very petty of the Council. We can't afford a live music licence because we cannot pay £600 for just one day. This was popular with all the family. Now there will be no celebration. We cannot hold the event in the pub because we want children to be able to join in. We were told we would be allowed to hold a private party, but then people will not be able to come and go as they please”. The party was to include music and drinks for the adults who braved the floods, which devastated Foord Road in 1996. For the children there would have been face-painting and food and drinks in the garden.

In 1996 floods submerged ground floors, cars and roads in central Folkestone and the harbour after torrential rain.

Council Licensing Officer, John McEwan, said the pub could have up to two musicians in the pub to celebrate. Or they could hold a private party. The pub would have had to have applied for an outdoor public entertainments licence 28 days before the event. He added “I had a conversation with someone at the pub and explained the options open to them if they still wanted to hold the event. We have to operate within the rules”.