South Yorkshire Times – Saturday 12 September 1942

Dispute Over Gate

West Melton Contractor Fined

At Barnsley West Riding Police Court on Friday, Henry Watkins (40), haulage contractor, West Melton, was summoned for stealing a wooden gate valued at 25s., the property of Florence Manley.

He pleaded not guilty, and was defended by Col.J. G. E. Rideal.

Florence Manley, married, of Ashville, Wombwell Road, Wombwell, said she formerly lived at 210, Hough Lane, Wombwell, and her son made a gate to prevent the dog straying. Watkiss bought the property in 1939 from the owner, Mrs. Marsh. Witness said she removed to Ashville in February and before they left she told Watkiss she was taking the gate away. Wathies replied “It’s all right. I know it is yours” When men came to remove her furniture they found the gate had gone. She wrote twice to Watkiss about it, but got no reply and she then informed the police.

Col. Rideal contended that the gate was the property of his client, for when he bought the houses he also bought the gate.

The Chairman (Aid. T. H. Foulstone) said the Bench had decided to convict and Watkiss would be fined 10s. and costs.