January 2nd 1868

Agricultural Gang Act. This act came into force on Tuesday last, the act prohibits the employment of children under the age of 8 years in agriculture and also enforces the separation of the sexes in field work, gang masters are also to be licensed.

January 2nd 1868

Sudbury. There was a meeting of the pavement committee to confer on the best way of getting rid of the "street arabs" the boys who loiter about the Market Hill day after day and week after week sitting on doorsteps and hanging about nearby shops, playing pitch and toss, raffle with a dice and annoy and obstruct foot passengers, the Mayor said the magistrates would do all they could to stop it.

January 9th 1868

Married at Worlingham, New Zealand, Thomas Castley Waring the eldest son of Mr Thomas Castley, surgeon of Cavendish, Suffolk, to Louisa Kesteven the eldest daughter of Mr Thomas Kesteven of Worlington, New Zealand.

January 23rd 1868

Married at Camden End, East America, Joseph Lillie the 2nd son of Mr W.Lillee of Sudbury, to Mary the 2nd daughter of Capt Shewell.

January 28th 1868

As Mr James Lord of Streets End farm, Edwardstone, was looking his stock before retiring he saw in his yard of bulls which he grazes, two bulls fighting. He endeavoured to stop them and was knocked over and broke his leg, he managed to crawl out of the yard while the bulls fought furiously. He is expected to do well.

February 6th 1868

Clare. A series of attacks have lately been made on potato, coal stocks and fowl houses in this town, among the most audacious onsets was the stealing of lead from the roof of Mr Hill's malting about 60 bushels of potato's were stolen from Mr Dennis of Chilton Street.

February 6th 1868

John Reeve, labourer of Walter Belchamp was charged with neglecting his work, John Offord, farmer of Walter Belchamp said he had employed the prisoner for several years, he was land draining by piece work, he left his work and returned much intoxicated. To pay costs of 8s which was paid by Mr Offord.

February 6th 1868

At the Crown Inn, Melford, a clearance sale. 167 gallon bronze copper-163 gallon copper-3 furnaces and bars-malt crusher-4 and 2 gallon coolers-capital 450 gallon vat-smaller ditto-2 beer engines-24 cast iron columns 6ft 3©" high. The erection of a boarded portable cottage, 30 ft long and 11 ft wide-mahogany bagatelle board and stand-2© dozen wooden seats and other chairs-3 dining tables-2 bedsteads-sundry furniture-18© dozen very choice pale sherry-6© dozen brown sherry-7 dozen port-1© chests of licensed victuallers tea-12 boxes of cigars- valuable roan gelding of 14© hands aged 6 years.

February 13th 1868

Moss Orbell late a farmer of Henny Fen was charged with being drunk and disorderly, he was found lying in a gutter in North Street drunk. 7 days.

February 13th 1868

Eliza Lester a girl of 12 of Ballingdon was charged with stealing turnips from Mr Browning who said I live I Bulmer, there is one of my fields called Loads Land in Ballingdon where she stole turnips which I value at 1 penny. To prison for 48 hours.

February 13th 1868

Advert. Wanted immediately. Servants of all kinds for London Hotels. Apply to the Essex Institute, East Hill, Colchester.

February 20th 1868

At Sudbury County Court, William Oakley a bricklayer of Foxearth sued Alfred Pratt Viall a farmer of Cavendish for £ 2 5s 4d being £ 1 1s 4d for 8 days work at 1s 8d a day and £ 1 4s for 2 barrels of cement used in laying a wheel run in a mill at Foxearth. Judgement for plaintiff of £ 1 4s for cement.

February 27th 1868

Advert. J. Downes of Gestingthorpe has been appointed agent for E.H.Bentall to sell his implements.

February 27th 1868

Benjamin Deal of Walter Belchamp was charged with being drunk and riotous and incapable of taking charge of a horse, P.C. Herbert said he was on duty at Ballingdon when his attention was drawn to the prisoner and a another man who were very drunk, the cart was loaded with deals and sugar hogsheads, the prisoner was pulling the horse one way and the other man was pulling it another way, he took him into custody but he was rescued by the other man. 20s with costs. Alfred Martin was charged with being drunk and disorderly and for rescuing Deal from P.C.Herbert. £2 or month.

February 27th 1868

Thomas Clayden 16 and Alfred Bentley 24, farm labourers of a low type for stealing two ducks from James Cotterell of Henham. 2 months.

March 5th 1868

Letters to the Editor.
Sir, on the last occasion of the East Essex Hunt meeting at Bulmer Tye there was an exciting days sport delighting everyone bar save the mark!.
I must except one gentleman who suffered terribly from the wanton proceedings of certain " rag bag and bobtail" who hung on the skirts of the worthy gentlemen who composed the field. On running through the Aubries, Mr St George Burke's flower beds were devastated, his walks trampled and defaced and his gates smashed, surely Mr Burke deserves fairer treatment. Mr Burke intends on any repetition of disgraceful conduct to take the law into his own hands.
signed a friend of the chase.

March 12th 1868

On Monday last a man named Henry Chatters in the employ of Mr Robert Smith of Belchamp St Pauls was felling trees when one fell on his back injuring his spine, Dr Waring from Cavendish soon attended but the medical men's opinion is it will prove fatal.

March 12th 1868

Walford Cranfield a labourer of Otten Belchamp was charged with leaving his six children chargeable to the Sudbury Union. 3 months hard labour.

March 19th 1868

To be sold on the premises-At the Fox Inn, Wigan End, Sudbury. Capital brewing plant-120 gallon copper-400 gallon boiler- beer engines etc.

March 26th 1868

Andrew Marven a fish dealer was charged with assaulting William Scott, ostler at the Black Boy Inn, Sudbury. Scott said prisoner came to his master's house, the Black Boy with a donkey and cart and asked for 2d worth of hay and water which he got. The prisoner went into the taproom and used abusive language to the witness, he asked him to get him some beer which he did, he asked him for 2d for the beer which he would not pay and struck witness with a stick. 6 weeks hard labour.

April 2nd 1868

Clare. On Sunday night last the "clever gang" succeeded in carrying off between 30-40 fowls the property of Mr Hale of Poslingford Hall.

April 16th 1868

On Saturday, the 4th, a sad accident happened to Harry Francis aged 8 years and who was the son of Mr Francis, seed merchant of the Market Hill, Sudbury. Near Cady's bridge on the Cornard road is a cutting which runs from the river and is used by Mr Allen's barges to convey lime and grain, a small horse bridge crosses the cutting leaving just enough room for the barge to pass under the bridge, the boy was standing on the bridge and as the barge passed under he jumped aboard but was caught by the bridge and thrown down, he rolled over and over and was jammed between the bridge and the deck. He sustained severe injuries to the head and died after great suffering.

April 16th 1868

A sad accident happened at Lamarsh a few days ago. A child aged 8 months and belonging to a poor farm labourer was left by it's mother in bed in charge of her aged parent for a little while, on returning she discovered to her great horror that a ferret belonging to her husband and had escaped from it's box was attacking the child, the poor infant's nose being entirely eaten off. The screams of the child were not heard by the aged woman who is very deaf. The child is recovering but of course will be disfigured.

April 16th 1868

There was an inquest at Braintree on the body of George Hunnable a labourer who met his death by falling from the shafts of straw elevator which he was moving and the wheels passing over him.
Accidental death.

April 23rd 1868

Harry Wass aged 9 was charged with damaging a horse belonging to Mr John Silkes of Gt Cornard, the bench said Mr Sikes was willing to drop the case if the boy's mother would authorise the police to whip the boy. The necessary consent was given.

April 23rd 1868

We have pleasure in announcing that on Thursday last the House Of Mercy was opened at Gt Maplestead which is to provide for the protection of fallen women.

April 23rd 1868

Foxearth Windmill for sale on Friday May the 8th by order of Mr John Ruffle. All the material arising from the demolition of Foxearth Windmill.

April 23rd 1868

On Sunday night a serious accident occurred on the Melford Road at Sudbury by two carts coming into collision , one of them belonged to Mr George Coote of Smeetham Hall, Bulmer, who was driven by his farm steward Alfred Clarke, the other was driven by John Jeffries a grocer's assistant at Mr Murrells North Street shop, the carts were going the opposite way when they collided near Herbert's beerhouse, Clarke was thrown out as was Jeffries and his sister who was riding with him.

April 23rd 1868

On Friday afternoon the Rev Thomas Nash the curate of Sible Hedingham who was drowned on the 17th inst was interred in the parish.

April 23rd 1868

Born on the April 9th at Kentwell Hall to the wife of Mr E.R.S. Bence, a daughter.

May 14th 1868

For sale an enclosure of valuable building land known as Siam Field adjoining Acton Green, Sudbury, now used as market gardens, almost in the centre of the town.

May 21st 1868

Advert. Fine home cured bacon and hams at Mr Macro's grocers at Foxearth.

May 28th 1868

William Orbell a carpenter of Castle Hedingham was charged with stealing a stone lion from Mrs Bear of Nether Hall, Gestingthorpe. William Bear said I live with my mother at Nether Hall, I had a stone lion in the front garden it was my property, I value it at 20s, I saw it there on December 11th last on the eve of Belchamp Colne fair, I missed it that night. Bound over.

June 4th 1868

Alphamstone. The sudden death of the wife of Mr W.Messent, veterinary surgeon is reported, she was sitting in the garden when she was suddenly seized and expired in 20 minutes.

June 25th 1868

Foxearth. Two cottages were burnt down on the 18th of this month, one was a small beerhouse kept by Charles Maxim, two thatched cottages standing near were saved sustaining but little damage.

June 28th 1868

Died at Castlemaine, Victoria, Australia, suddenly aged 43, William the 2nd son of Thomas Pattle of Bury.

June 28th 1868

Glemsford. The pleasure fair was held at Glemsford on mid-summer's day, there was an unusual amount of stalls with the green being completely full, the event passed over orderly which is an unusual thing to say about Glemsford.

July 2nd 1868

The pleasure fair at Glemsford passed off orderly, perhaps an unusual thing to say about Glemsford. The Green was completely full of stalls etc.

July 2nd 1868

Died on May 2nd at Riccarton, Christchurch, New Zealand, aged 52, William the eldest son of the late John Savill of Clopton House, Wickhambrook.

July 2nd 1868

Died at Kynetorf, Australia, John Wiseman, formerly of Rickinghall, Suffolk.

July 9th 1868

Walter Belchamp. This pretty little village of Walter Belchamp is situated about 4 miles from Sudbury and lies contiguous to Bulmer, Otten Belchamp and Gestingthorpe. The country around is picturesque and varied and a dweller in the busy haunts of mankind will find his weary spirit refreshed by a walk through the rich cornfields along shady lanes, over the rising ground extensive views will be presented to him especially in this sultry season through some of the rich grasslands and meadows with brooks striated with sallow willow and fringed with sweet scented snowy feathery blossom of meadow sweet, the pretty flowers of the bushy willow, the yellow water iris, these meads have doubtless given name to the district for the three parishes of Belchamp derive their name from the Norman "Belle Champ" that is beautiful for meadow, a lover of botany will be repaid for his journey by a sight of water not far from the church, filled with noble white water lilies, we had the pleasure of leisurely rambling through on a visit we made to the handsome village church at the opening of the new organ.

July 9th 1868

William Orbell was charged with stealing a stone lion at Gestingthorpe, weighing 16 stone. William Brett who is employed by defendant's father at Castle Hedingham, said he saw the lion in the cart the next morning at defendant's father's public house, no attempt had been made to hide it. Defendant told him someone had placed it in the cart on the night of Belchamp fair. Aquitted.

July 16th 1868

There was an inquest at the Cock Inn, Clare, on the body of Thomas Hickford aged 62 who fell in a tub of hot liquor while brewing. John Mansfield a labourer, said, I was helping remove the wort, deceased fell backwards into the liquor, I pulled him out, he did not appear drunk. Accidental death.

July 23rd 1868

Richard Downey aged 8 years was summoned for stealing 17 lbs coal valued 1 ½ d the property of Ward and Silver of Melford. To have six strokes of the birch rod. August 6th 1868. On Tuesday last afternoon a field of barley on the swarth belonging to C.E. Westropp of Place farm, Melford, was observed to be on fire, no doubt it was caused by the train which passed a few minutes before. August 20th 1868. Melford. On Thursday morning between one and two a cry of fire was raised by some labourers returning from a largesse spending, the fire was observed to be about 1 mile from Melford street, some perceived it was the Paper Mill and at once proceeded to the spot, on arrival it was found a dwelling house and the buildings attached were in flames and no efforts could save the house. Alfred Overton was the person sleeping on the premises which belong to Mr Tomkinson of London. August 27th 1868. Joseph and William Teverson and George Wallace of Lt Thurlow were charged by Mr James Gostling of Lt Bradley with neglecting their work during harvest on the 7th of August. To pay 5s each and costs of 6s 3d each. August 27th 1868. Application for the full licence. Mr Smith the landlord of the beerhouse close to the railway station at Cavendish which is to be called the Railway Arms. Granted.

August 27th 1868

A complaint was made at Castle Hedingham Highway Board as to the condition of the moat at Foxearth Hall which had encroached onto the carriageway, the side having fallen in. The surveyor was asked to do the necessary repairs as there was a precedence for the work to be done by the parish.

September 3rd 1868

Mr Josuah Searle the Parish Clerk and Sexton at Borley died suddenly on Sunday last. Mr Searle as usual was attending to his duties in the parish church before the commencement of Divine Service, he was engaged in removing the curtains which seperate the vestry from the church, while mounted on a stool, he suddenly fell to the ground, the organist heard him fall and called for assistance. The unfortunate man was removed from the church to the churchyard where in the course of a few minutes he expired. His sudden death occasions no surprise as he was suffering from a heart condition. He was 68 years old and had lived in the parish for many years.

September 3rd 1868

Castle Hedingham Petty Sessions. Mr Cardinall made an application with references to the Fox beer house at Tilbury for the bench to grant a spirit licence for this house from it's present occupier to Mr Lewis Basham a man of good character. Not granted .

September 3rd 1868

Mary Poole a domestic servant late in the employ of the Rev Fisher of Liston was charged with stealing various articles, Mr Fisher said he missed several articles and he searched the prisoner's box and found a silk handkerchief with his name on, a bottle of Marsala wine, a child's frock, several pieces of soap, a loaf of sugar, he said the prisoner was present when he searched the box and she denied any of the articles were his. 1 month imprisonment.

September 3rd 1868

Harvest Home at Shimpling. Mr Joseph Byford, the worthy occupier of Shimpling Hall gave a harvest home in good old English style to the labourers in his employ, Mr Byford farms 900 acres and on it are 36 horses, 98 bullocks, a large number of calves and 700 sheep, a good deal of the land is heavy but it is well cultivated as Mr Byford employs a steam engine made by Egginton of Chelmsford. A large tent was erected in the meadow behind the Hall with two rows of tables placed the length of the tent and 60 labourers sat down to a capital dinner of roast and boiled beef and puddings, a whole sheep, two quarters of lamb with several large joints which were well cooked, there was of course beer ad libitum, after the dinner two elevens were made up for a capital game of cricket. Mr William Byford of Glemsford also attended.

September 17th 1868

At Mashey Farm, Yeldham. For sale by auction the live and dead stock by order of Mr John Firman who has let the farm.
5 mares and geldings-98 ewes-80 lambs-40 fat wethers-1 heifer-2 fat steers-12 fat hogs-25 shoats-road waggon-2 harvest waggons-2 tumbrils- pony tumbril-3 iron foot ploughs etc.

September 17th 1868

A ploughing match was held on " Abbots" at Blacklands Estate, Cavendish. 17 ploughs competed. 1st Henry Mays 10s, 2nd William Brown 7s. 3rd John Smith 5s. The other competitors were awarded 1s each. 2nd class William Smith 7s 6d, John Shepheard 5s, William Bullock 2s 6d. The judges were Mr John Hale of Poslingford Hall, Mr Cross of Trucketts and Mr Jones junior of Clare.

September 24th 1868

Edward Clark, labourer of Glemsford was charged with stealing a quarter a peck of potatoes, the property of Mr Garrett of Blacklands Hall, Cavendish. P. C. Bullet said he met the prisoner coming home from work and noticed his pockets were bulging, he asked him what he had got, he said a few potatoes which he had picked up behind the plough, he was then conveyed to Clare police station to appear at Melford Petty Sessions.

September 24th 1868

There was a fatal accident on the premises of Mr Thomas Green at Acton Hall on Friday afternoon. A man named Neave aged about 68 years from some cause slipped and his foot became entangled in the steam threshing machine. Medical aid was summoned and was quickly on hand, Mr Jones the surgeon thought it necessary to amputate the foot but the shock was too much for the poor fellow and he died. Accidental death.

October ? 1868

Hinckford and District Agricultural Club held their dinner at the Bell, Castle Hedingham. The ploughing match was held in two fields near the town. At the dinner, the president Mr Papillon, said that there was too much straw plaiting in the district and that he would rather see young women go into service and prepare themselves to be good wives and mothers,(hear hear) and that there was good demand for domestic servants round Castle Hedingham. Champion ploughman-D.Raymond for Mr J.M.Balls. 1st class-James Scrivener for H. Mann £ 2- P.Chinery for J.S.Coker £ 1 5s-Alfred Yeldham for T.Eley £ 1-J.Collar for J.S.Gardiner. Length of service, David Frost 49 years at Purkes Farm, Borley,£ 1 10s, 2nd James Shorten with 47© years at St Mary Hall Belchamp Walter for Mr H.Archer.

October 8th 1868

At a meeting of the Hedingham Highway Board the surveyor reported that he had applied for tenders for work on Seven Forms in Hoe Lane, Belchamp Walter. Clement Theobald of Melford was the lowest tenderer and has been entrusted with the work. The brickwork on two culverts and the retaining walls have been finished and excavations of the water course on the approach to and over the culverts are in a forward state and in the course of a few days will be finished. Mr Theobald has asked for a payment of £ 50 on account of work done and I will recommend payment.

October 8th 1868

The side of two ponds abuting the highway leading from Hoe Lane, Borley, are in a dangerous state and should be filled in. It was recommended that a length of brick drain be laid under the road at the bottom of Constables Hill, Foxearth. It was recommended that a culvert be laid across the road opposite Foxearth Hall to carry water from the ditch to the moat, Mr Foster said that the moat was valuable as throughout the entire summer season there was always water running in the stream through Foxearth.

October 8th 1868

Hedingham Highway Board. The side of the moat at Foxearth has been repaired and a length of posts and railings have been fixed, the culvert crossing the road near Cardinal's farm requires lengthening at the expense of about £1-10s. The continuous run of water over the highway at Constable's hill, Foxearth, which renders travelling very unsafe at that spot, a length of drain to be laid under the carriageway at a cost of £3.

October 15th 1868

An old lady, Mrs Ann Hart, mother of William Hart has died at Belchamp Walten aged 106. The old lady remembered perfectly events which took place in her youth when George 3rd was King, she took great delight in telling these ancient stories.

October 22nd 1868

Nathan Goate aged 24 years and Charles Newman 25, both lamp lighters employed by Sudbury Gas Works were charged with stealing from a yard in Station Road, Sudbury, 4 tables clothes, 7 towels, etc. Both men live in Ballingdon near each other. 3 months hard labour each.

October 22nd 1868

Letters to the Editor.
I was surprised to read in the Suffolk Free Press the obituary to Mrs Hart at Belchamp Walter aged 106.
I examined our Parish register at Great Yeldham and found her baptism recorded, I also called on a relative of the deceased who is in the possesion of a document written by her father, Mr John Fuller, saying, Ann our daughter, born this morning, August 12th 1784 at 1 in the morning.
Editors comment. Mrs Hart's age was furnished us on good authority so there must be a mistake on her age of 106 years.

October 22nd 1868

Josiah Savage of Cavendish was summoned by Mr P.Vial for damaging an oak tree to the value of 6d belonging to the Earl Howe.
Defendant pleaded guilty saying I should not have gone after acorns only I wanted to get bread for my children by selling a bushel I could get some. Fined 10s and 6s 6d costs.

October 22nd 1868

Advert. To Share moulders. Two of the above trades can constant employment. Apply, John Downes, Iron Foundry, Gestingthorpe.

October 28th 1868

Clare. On Monday last as Mr Ager, a builder of London, drove down from London with a friend, they started early and arrived at Clare at about 3-30 in the morning, but the journey was too much for the horse for on gaining the bottom of a hill about ½ a mile from this town it fell down on it's knees from exhaustion,

November 5th 1868

Samuel Moss of Melford was summoned by the Highway Board for allowing offensive liquid to flow over the highway, the surveyor stated that the defendant collected manure and placed it in his yard whence it ran into the road. 5s.

November 12th 1868

All the underwood at Eyston Smyth's wood at Foxearth, to be sold by auction by George Coote at the Bull Inn Melford on November 20th, all the underwood now growing in the above wood which contains 6 acres 3 perches which is being cleared for stubbing up.

December 3rd 1868

West Suffolk Election. Letters to the Editor. What I complained about is the fact which cannot be denied is that Capt. Bence placed himself in the polling booth right in face of the voter during nearly all that the time, the small traders and tenants and other voters from Melford and adjoining parishes have expressed regret they could not vote according to their views. Yours S.Higgs.

December 10th 1868

Walter Suttle of Glemsford was charged with being on land in search of game on the land of Mr J.E.Hale at Cavendish. Dismissed.

December 31st 1868

Clare. An unusual catch of eels was made in the river on Monday morning last, one of the eels reached 3 ½ lbs and another lot of 25 which were caught at Clare Mill averaged 2 lbs each.

December 31st 1868

Cavendish. On Christmas morning the workmen employed by Mr J.S.Garrett at Cavendish were served each with a ticket for 2 bushels of coal, a quart of old "Home Brewed" and a shilling each. .

January 7th 1869

Elizabeth Hay, a widow, lately in service at Tilbury Court was charged with stealing articles from her employer, Mr C.J.Hay.
Mr Hay said defendant quit her job as nurse, before she went he asked her if he could look through her boxes where he found a number of articles she had stolen from him. Committed to gaol for 3 months.

January 7th 1869

Ebenezer Turp and Walter Turp of Pentlow, two boys, were charged with damaging property belonging to Mr Robert Orbell of Pentlow.
Mr Orbell said he found his turnip machine damaged by the boys who had put land drain tiles in the machine and grinding them up. The police of the parish said the boys did not bear good characters. 21 days in prison.

January 7th 1869

William Sharpe of Belchamp Walter was committed for stealing two rabbits from William Chatters of Belchamp Walter worth 3s.

January 7th 1869

Advice had been received from Australia stating there has been that rebelling Maoris in New Zealand have committed frightening atrocities, 50 Europeans being massacred, the government is being accused of incompetence, recruits are being enrolled in Victoria to assist in quelling the rebels.

January 7th 1869

Cavendish. On Tuesday last, Mr A..J.C.Norton of Nobbs Hall farm entreated all the aged people of this parish to a dinner at the White Horse Hotel, the dinner consisted of plum pudding and roast beef to which the old people did justice, after dinner they engaged till seven with plenty of "home brew" till about 6 o'clock.

January 7th 1869

William Sharpe a labourer of Walter Belchamp was charged with stealing two rabbits from William Chatters who said he had two rabbits in a hutch behind his cottage when he missed them, he went to White House farm at Otten Belchamp to feed some sheep on the 27th, Ted Reeve helped him and from what he said he went to the house of Francis Wright on St Pauls Green where he found one of his rabbits hanging on a nail dead it was worth 3s, Francis Wright said he won it in a raffle at Goody's shop, he did not know who put it up for the raffle, John Tarbin of Belchamp St Pauls said that on the Thursday before Christmas he bought a rabbit from Willaim Sharpe. 1s 3d.

January 14th 1869

A new lecture hall has been opened at Cavendish. Mr Garret has at his sole expense erected the hall spoken of. The building is situated on Mr Garret's estate oposite the railway station, it is built in rustic style to accord with the lodge to Blacklands Hall and contains a large hall of 50ft x 24ft and 20ft high, this room has elliptic ceilings to afford extra light. Chandeliers, small in size have been suspended from the ceilings. Leading from the lecture room is a classroom 20ft x 13ft and a private room 15ft x 10ft with a door opening on to a platform. There are two rooms over the entrance hall for use a residence for the hall keeper. Mr Salter of Sudbury is the architect and the hall was erected by Mr Garret's own workmen.

January 14th 1869

Glemsford. A few days since a gun accident happened to a young man named Beeton, the son of Joseph Beeton the carrier, the poor fellow was going on well when lockjaw set in and he died last Wednesday aged 24.

January 21st 1869

James Bruce, George Wordley, Walter Elliston and James and Robert Rutter were charged with stealing ducks at Glemsford, the property of Mr William Byford of the Court. Bruce committed for trial, the others dismissed.

January 21st 1869

To be sold on April 7th at Wren Park Wood, Great Yeldham, 1415 faggots-1400 poles-240 bundles of thatching stuff-90 bundles of stakes-600 withes and a few splints.

January 21st 1869

An extensive fire broke out at New House Farm, Poslingford, in occupation of Mr John Ambrose on Sunday evening.
Clare fire engine saved 2 wheat stacks but all the farm buildings were burnt down. The horseman and stockman were on the premises a few minutes before the fire broke out but both deny smoking. All the cattle were saved. Strong suspicion rests on a party in the village, there is no doubt it is the work of an incendiary. New House stands on very high ground and the fire was seen for many miles around.

January 21st 1869

There was an inquest at Clare on the body of James Hill aged 79 years a farmer from Belchamp St Pauls who was found drowned. John Taylor a labourer said I went to a pool at Trip's farm which is about 1© miles from Clare and about © a mile from deceased's home to water a horse, I saw an umbrella sticking up in the pond, I went and gave information, a roadway passes near the pond. Found drowned believed to be an accident.

January 24th 1869

Clare. A fire broke out at New House farm, Poslingford on Sunday night last, the farm is in occupation of James Ambrose. Clare fire engine was in attendance and with it's aid two wheat stacks were saved but we regret to say that all the farm buildings were consumed including a double and a single barn, two stables-three sheds-100 coomb of wheat and a pea stack, a man was seen running away from the premises just before the fire broke out and strong suspicions rests upon a party living in the village.

January 28th 1869

James Oakley a farmer of Glemsford was summoned by Mr Henry Cook who said he was standing on a ploughed field belonging to the defendant which adjoins the Baptist Burial ground, to witness the funeral of a young man who died from injuries lately received, there were a great number of people there, defendant called to him "come off my field", I put my finger up and said I will come off directly, before I could do so he came up and struck me in the face and said if I did not come off he would strike me again. 20s with costs.

February 11th 1869

Halstead. On Monday last Mr Hamilton a moulder at Messrs Huggins and Atterton was uncovering a cast when fixed air in the sand exploded and Mr Hamilton sustained a severe shock in the head, his hat was blown off and he received severe injuries to his head and eyes and his whiskers were burnt. He is progressing favourably.

February 18th 1869

Cavendish. On Friday afternoon a shooting match took place in a meadow belonging to Mr J.S. Garrett under the auspices of Mr Thomas Murrills of the White Horse Inn, 18 dozen of the "blue roc" pigeons were shot from the trap at a 21 yard rise.

February 18th 1869

Lewis Ashby of Ashen was charged by Mr Thomas Norden with setting snares on his land. 8s with 12s costs.

February 18th 1869

John Cranfield and Eli Cranfield labourers were charged with wounding David Felton aged 65 years in Hoven Wood, Belchamp Walter. Felton is employed by Mr George Coote of Belchamp and was working in the wood when he heard shots, he saw two men, he told them they had no business in the wood, they knocked him down with a stick. John Cranfield 9 days, Eli Cranfield 6 months hard labour.

February 25th 1869

On Saturday morning a highway robbery was committed on the high road between Halstead and Earls Colne, it appears that Mr Hunt of the Atlas Iron Works sent a lad to Messrs Sparrow and Co's bank at Halstead, on his way back he was stopped by two men who made him deliver up the whole the cash amounting to £26, information was given to the police and two labourers from Halstead named Samuel Downey and Walter Rayner are indentified.

February 25th 1869

George Tolliday a drover of Sudbury was charged with driving a bullock on the path on Ballingdon Hill and using insulting language to Mr Badham who desired him to drive it in its proper place.
Mr Badham said he met the bullock on the path, defendant and two boys were driving it. I said " you should not drive the bullock on the path" he replied " I cant knock it off", I asked him his name, he said " the same as my father's", I said who does the bullock belong to, he replied " it belongs to the man who bought it", I asked one of the boys to give me defendant's name but he held a stick over the boy's head and said " dont tell him". I sent a man after him to ascertain who he was. 5s with 11s costs.

February 25th 1869

Alfred and Charles Must and William Gunn were summoned by Mr Edward Baker for maliciously opening Cornard lock to thepredjudice of Cornard Mill. Mr Baker said he was in the mill and saw defendants put a boat in the lock, I went to them and found they had drawn a lock full of water from Cornard Head, I asked them to draw the water off, they refused, I cant swear they had a net. 1s with 5s 6d costs.

March 4th 1869

Died at Hokitka, New Zealand, Edward the youngest son of the late Charles Boby of Willisham Hall,Suffolk.

March 18th 1869

To be sold by George Coote at the Rose and Crown, Sudbury, in April-Overhall Estate, Gestingthorpe, under the will of the late Mr George Walker-Red Brick family mansion surrounded by park like grounds, 297 acres-Hill Farm, 200 acres, in occupation of Mr James Turner-Ashley Cottage-Tuckland farm, 38 acres-Foundry farm-Dalvyns farm- The celebrated covers known as Wiggery and Oaklands woods, 60 acres-Moat and Newhouse farm in occupation of Mr C.H.Branwhite, 300 acres-Church Hall farm, Great Henny-Brick and tile pottery works, Gestingthorpe-the village Inn, the " Compasses"-copyhold of the manor of Overhall.

March 18th 1869

The large stones which litter Clare streets have been removed and stones will be broken before being spread on our streets. It will put an end to the games played by our " street arabs".

March 4th 1869

David Farrant, a labourer of Foxearth was charged by Mr Edward Lee Baker with poaching, Robert Scrivener said I am bailiff to Mr Baker on Christmas afternoon I saw defendant go past, he seemed was drunk, another man was with him, they were putting a gun together, defendant got over a hedge in to the meadow. Defendant said they were black berrying. Dismissed.

March 25th 1869

Tenders for the new iron bridge to be erected over the Stour at Clare were examined on Monday, the following were accepted-Ward and Silver of Melford £50-Mr Death of Clare for £34-10s-Mr Wright of Sudbury for £32-Messrs Huggins and Atterton of Halstead for £30-10s.

March 25th 1869

Gt. Maplestead. Rochester Diocesan House of Mercy, the first report of the Council just issued since the opening of the Institution in April last. 31 penitents have been admitted three of them were sent to other homes, two have been dismissed, four to hospital, one returned friends, 18 remain in the House of Mercy. The council are anxious to let it known that any proper case from Essex or Herts which are duly recommended by clergymen or other responsible people will be admitted. £700 per annum at least is required to carry on this institution.

April 8th 1869

Mr Hills, silversmith of Friars Street, Sudbury, can claim the honour of introducing the first two wheeled velocipede to Sudbury,his riding through the streets of Sudbury on a singular looking conveyance now so much the fashion in France and America has quite excited the wonder of the crowds of persons although we understand it is not all that difficult and with a little practice it appears that 8 miles per hour can easily be done by an expert.

April 15th 1869

Died on February 26th at Fell Over- b. in Lat.5. N.long 27w-ac-17. Joseph William King of the Shun Lee, the eldest son of the Rev Joseph King of Victoria, late of Farnham Suffolk.

April 18th 1869

Emma Elliston aged 17 was charged with stealing waste silk at Glemsford. Andrew Peacok said he was the manager at the silk mills Glemsford. Charles Game said he saw Elliston drop silk as she was leaving the factory for dinner. Mr Peacock said there are 90 girls employed in the factory and he is obliged to proceed with the case.
7 days imprisonment.

April 15th 1869

An application for the enclosure of Liston Common situated in Liston, Essex, has been made to enclose the Common. I hearby give notice that I shall hold a meeting at the Rose and Crown Hotel, Sudbury, on the 27th of April for the purpose of hearing objections to the proposal.
N.Wetherell.

April 15th 1869

On Saturday a boy named John Bradman from Cavendish was driving pigs to Sudbury Market for Mr Prentice of Cavendish, on entering Sudbury he was knocked down by a horse and cart and the wheel passed over him, the lad being slightly deaf. He is going on favourably.

April 22nd 1869

On Thursday evening the cottage tenants of Mr J.S.Garret of Blacklands Hall, Cavendish, had an excellent dinner, upwards of 50 people sat down at the Lecture Hall to a dinner of roast beef, boiled mutton and plum pudding. The chair was occupied by the much esteeemed landlord, toasts were drunk to the Queen and Royal family.
Several songs were sung.

April 22nd 1869

On Monday last, Mr Hardy a farmer of Wickham St Pauls Green ran a thorn into his hand, inflamation set in and within a few days he died

April 22nd 1869

On Saturday evening some rascals amused themselves by damaging the wall and fence on Melford Green in front of the terraces.
There is a reward of £ 3 for information, we hope the parties are brought to justice and condemned to durance for their vile conduct and trouble

April 29th 1869

Died recently at Poverty Bay, New Zealand, Alexander Mackenzie Edwards, surgeon, the third son of Mr May Edwards on Bildeston, Suffolk.

May 13th 1869

At a meeting of Sudbury Town Council the Watch Committee reported that they had had a complaint of the conduct of the Town crier, he having proclaimed something to the annoyance of certain gentlemen. He is to reprimanded and warned.

May 13th 1869

John Turner a labourer aged 60 of Little Yeldham with stealing barley and wheat meal from his employer Mr Robert Marsh also of Little Yeldham.

May 13th 1869.Today at the Rose and Crown, Sudbury, the valuable freehold estate known as Bradfields Farm part in Foxearth and Pentlow. 250 acres.

May 13th 1869

Preliminary Announcement. Valuble Freehold Farm in Essex with immediate possession known as Bradfields Farm containing about acres situate in Foxearth and Pentlow about midway between the capital market towns of Sudbury and Clare. Mr George Coote is favoured with instructions to sell by auction the above estate on Thursday May 10th at between 3 and 4 o'clock.

May 13th 1869

Sudbury Town Council. The Watch Committee. A report of a meeting on Thursday evening last. Mr Cardinall complained of the conduct of the town crier in having proclaimed something to the annoyance to certain gentlemen, it is ordered that he be reprimanded for doing so and warned not to be guilty again of gross misconduct.

May 13th 1869

Brettenham. Inquest at Brettenham on Sarah Walker aged 75, it appears the deceased was at Waterloo with her late husband who lost both legs in the battle and he died at Blaxall about 20 years ago. Deceased lived with Mr Offord as housekeeper, Mr Offord being a beerhouse keeper at Brettenham, on Thursday morning she complained of feeling unwell and went upstairs to lie down, Sarah Andrews went upstairs to see how she was and found her being sick, later Mrs Offord found she had died Natural causes.

May 13th 1869

John Turner of Lt Yeldham was charge with stealing barley from Robert Marsh of Lt Yeldham. 3 months.

May 20th 1869

The cattle were turned out on the common lands at Sudbury last week, 130 head. Mr Godbold and Mr Brown veterinary surgeons of Sudbury were present to inspect the animals prior to being turned out, there were no symptons of disease.

May 27th 1869

The property known as the Houghton Hall Estate is to be sold by Messrs Newson and Stanley. The estate is situated in Clare, Cavendish and Poslingford. Two miles from Clare railway station and intersected by the turnpike road leading from Clare to Sudbury. 667 acres 31 perches, lying in a ring fence divided into large enclosures and admirably adapted for steam cultivation. Also the Manor of Houghton Impoy and Bully Hall embracing 70 acres. Comfortable residence pleasantly situated for the residence of a gentleman. Extensive farm buildings and cottages etc. Arable, pasture and woodland in occupation of Mr Franklin who's occupacy expires at Michelmas. Bully Hall etc, in seperate lots.

May 27th 1869

Bradfields Farm, Foxearth, was bought Mr G.Cardinall for £ 8.600.

June 3rd 1869

Mr E.H.Bentall sold at the Rose and Crown Hotel in Sudbury the small championship herd of Alderney Guernsey cows imported by Mr Lawrence Fowler. 1 heifer bought by Mr Prattt Vial for 21 guineas.
2 year old heifer by Wm.Nott for 15g.-2 year old L.A.Majendie 23g-2yr heifer H.T.Sargeant 18g - 3 year old, Edward Gardiner 18g 18s.-3 year cow W.Strutt 16© g.

June 3rd 1869

Joseph Richardson a dealer of Clare was charged with obstructing the highway at Cavendish. P.C.Bullet said he went to Rice's beer house and saw defendant's horse and cart on the crown of the road, I went into the beerhouse and saw defendant who was drunk, he went soon afterwards, when he passed me on the road he abused me. Fined 15s with 5s 6d costs.

June 3rd 1869

At Melford Petty Sessions Edward Wheeler a butcher of Melford road,Sudbury and David Maxim a drover of Chilton were charge with causing a bull to be ill treated on April 28th at Shimpling, the case excited much interest as Wheeler had been convicted at Sudbury petty Sessions of exposing the neck of a bull for sale having been condemned as unfit for human consumption. £3 11s 6d.

June 10th 1869

Mr J.F.Hills of Sudbury begs to state he has been appointed agent for Messrs Corbiere and Sons of Cannon Street, E.C. for the sale of the velocipedes of the Paris Company, Michaux.

June 10th 1869

An amateur concert was given in aid of funds for St Leonards hospital at Fishers Farm in Walter Belchamp, a barn was fitted up by Mr Robert Firmin.

June 10th 1869

Halstead. During the night of Friday week upwards of 40 sheep the property of Mr G. de Vaisey of this town which had been shorn, died from the severity of the weather.

June 10th 1869

Samuel Howard and Amos Ambrose of Melford were charged with obstructing the footway at Melford, P.C.Hall said he saw the defendants sitting on a stile leading to the churchyard and the Rectory meadow, I saw two other young men named Branwhite and Frost come up and they had to undo the gate which I was watching in consequence of complaints of persons wanting to use the path. 1s with 3s 9d costs.

July 1st 1869

The concert at Walter Belchamp in aid of St Leonards Hospital raised £5.

July 1st 1869

Died on

March 26th 1869

at Preston NP Melbourn Australia, a victim of disease of the heart aged 40, Hannah Naomi, beloved wife of Thomas Bailey formerly of Ely and daughter of the late Jonathan Hall of Sudbury Suffolk.

July 8th 1869

Castle Hedingham Highway Board. The Rev Foster brought up the question of the wash at Bevingdon, Otten Belchamp, a committee was appointed to view the wash, they recommended that a new ditch for the length of 6 rods be cut to the mouth of the culvert under the highway, the surveyor then brought the boards attention to the fact that the gate upon the Bower Hall Estate at Pentlow, occupied by Mr Robert Orbell was kept constantly closed and it was a great inconvenience to the public, Mr Orbell said the path was not a public thoroughfare, the surveyor said it was and the public had a right to it ,the clerk to the council to seek legal advice.

July 8th 1869

A letter has been sent to Mr Branwhite, agent to the Countess of Waldegrave and to Mr Coote of Smeetham Hall at Bulmer calling their attention to the state of Bardfield bridge. Borley to Bulmer road.

June 10th 1869

The boat Alexandria. This safe and capacious excursion boat is removed from the County bridge and will lie on the river Glem for 3 months. Terms 1s an hour, 12 adults can ride in her thus for 1d a head profit. Key at Sluice Cottage.
Wm. Boutell.

July 15th 1869

Fire broke out at Chilton Street farm, Clare, on Saturday last in an outhouse adjoining the White Hart. It would have been disastrous but for the employees of Mr Dennis who succeeded in saving the dwelling house. It was reported that Clare Fire Engine had been sent for but no horses and but very few men could be found in the hour of need. If such be the case there is not much use for a fire engine if a horse cannot be obtained for to make it travel 1© miles.

July 22nd 1869

Mr Duncan of Lavenham sugar beet factory has given five silver cups to be competed for in different classes. Largest quantity of beet per acre was awarded to Robert Hawkins and T.Hitchcock second. Mr Robert Hawkins was awarded the cup for most saccaharine matter in sugar beet.

July 22nd 1869

Sturmer. We received a short account of the prowess in shooting the wild denizens of the forests of India from a gentleman who is a native of this village and who holds a Government appointment as a conservator of the forest in the central province. The following note says---Sir I send to you my list of animals killed by me from the 1st of April till

May 10th 1869

, namely two tigers one was 9ft 1in long the other was 9ft 9in long, three tigresses, one panther, one hyena and one wounded another tiger was badly wounded but in consequence of the thick jungle I lost it. Yours truly F.C.H. Jungully India.

July 22nd 1869

For Sale tomorrow at Walter Belchamp. 7 freehold cottages with small gardens situate on the Meeting Hill, Walter Belchamp in several occupation of James Pilgrim, Samuel Edwards, William Edwards, Rippengale, Martin, Cranfield , Widow Smith.

July 22nd 1869

We understand that Mr J.S.Garrett of Cavendish commenced harvest today (Thursday) by cutting wheat on his farm at Pentlow.

July 22nd 1869

Died on board the Highflier en route to Australia, aged 25, William Conville of Rougham House, the only son of the Rev William Colville, rector of Baylam, Ipswich.

August 12th 1869

A serious accident occurred at Cavendish to a man named Pledger, a jobbing gardener and horse clipper. He entered the Bull public house and in a short while Mr Deeks the landlord put him out into the yard, Pledger made a rush at Deeks tearing out a handfull of whiskers from his face, Deeks tripped him up and he fell breaking his leg in two places. Mr Waring attended and set the leg.

August 12th 1869.

Died on July 23rd, Charles Frederick, the only surviving son of Henry Mears of Lennoxville, Canada West, formerly of Stowe Hill, Hartest, Suffolk.

August 19th 1869.

Died on May 31st at Port Elizabeth, South Africa, aged 46, Charles Pannel, late of Otten Belchamp Mill.

August 19th 1869.

Advert. Cash price of coal at Sudbury station. Lamton Wallsend Primrose--- best household coal at 23s per ton-Derbyshire Brights at 17s 6d---Steam, Brick and Bakers Coal 18s 6d down to 16s 3d for deep main coal.

August 19th 1869

On September 29th at Red House Farm, Litle Yeldham, the live and dead stock to be sold by auction by orders of the executors of the late John Goodchild. 9 cart mares and geldings-120 lambs-cow and calf-4 sows-200 poultry-seed drill-3 harvest waggons-6 ploughs-shim- scarifiers-mangold plough-horse hoe-heavy and light rolls-3 tumbrils- plough trace-cart trace-8 bit halters, etc.

August 19th 1869

The live and dead stock at Bradfields Farm, Foxearth and Pentlow for 300 acres to be sold by orders of the executors of the late George Chickall.

August 261869.

John Brewster aged 74 of Glemsford was charged by Corben Morley with stealing seven turnips from a field he was employed to hoe. 2s with 5s 1d costs.

August 26th 1969

All inkeepers licences at Clare to be renewed except for the Waggon and Horses.

September 2nd 1869

The old established public house, Maplestead Cock was sold last week by Geo.Coote. It is situated halfway between Sudbury and Halstead. The inn, garden and orchard was purchased by the tenant, Mr Samuel Richbell for £ 330 and a acre of land attached was bought by Richbell for £ 107.

September 16th 1869

Messrs Rolphe and Wheeler will sell by auction with instructions from the Guardians of Sudbury Union upon the premises on the 17th of September the following-a capital flour and corn mill driving a pair of French Burr stones complete with as now fixed for manual power and well adapted for steam or horse power, also a large quantity of stores-30 good single and double beds-tanks-brass taps-158 pewter chamber utensils-silk work looms and miscellaneous property.

September 16th 1869

For sale at Pound Farm, Gestingthorpe, next Wednesday by George Coote near the Iron Foundry-8 horses-3 cart horses-22 ewes-35 lambs-2 sows-40,000 new patent ornamental tiles-large brewhouse.

September 16th 1869

Glemsford. During the storm on Friday morning tweo pigs the proerty of Mr Allen, shopkeeper were struck by lightning, one died a few hours later, the other is still alive but suffering from the effects of the electric fluid.

September 16th 1869

Glemsford. A harvest home was celebrated on Monday in Mr Byford's a large barn at Court Farm, a capital dinner was succeeded by rural sports.

September 16th 1869

Alpheton. About 8 on Thursday night a poor man who walked from Braintree fell exhausted on the turnpike road in this village, Mr Robert Malton, farmer, gave him some brandy and assisted him to the Lion Inn where Mr Clements the host extended him some hospitality and so the poor fellow after a night's rest was set on his way.

September 23rd 1869

Sudbury Police Court. Mr Thomas Wheeler jun. a beerhouse keeper applied for a certificate for a house and premises he had recently built at the corner of Acton Lane, Mr Mumford who appeared for the applicant asked if the case be allowed to stand over till July 30th. Adjourned.

September 23rd 1869

Melford Petty Sessions. George Salter, 13, Arthur Sore, 14, Charles Lee, 12, Charles Lamb, 14, William Lee,9, Henry Stanhope,10 and John Heard, 11, were charged with stealing ¼ peck of nuts from Parsonage Farm at Melford, in occupation of Thomas Byford, the defendants pleaded guilty and with their parents consent to have 8 strokes of the birch rod each except for the two younger ones who will receive 6 strokes each.

September 30th 1869

There was an application to open a stone pit on behalf of Hedingham Highway Board on a farm in the occupation of Mr Bird at Bulmer. Mr Canham, solicitor, opposed the application on behalf of the family of the late Mr Robert Allen. Mr Canham said the farm is owned by a lunatic member of the Allen family and if the application was successful it would take more to apply to the Court Chancery than money received for the stone. Mr Boulter the surveyor said there was a stone pit at Smeetham Hall but it could only be got out in the summer and it required three horses to draw a load out. Mr Bird the tenant also urged objections. Adjourned for 1 month.

October 7th 1869

Frederick Shinn aged 20 years, a labourer from Somerton was charged with injuring a horse at Somerton belonging to Mr J.E.Hale.
Defendant acknowledged the charge. It appeared that when returning from a largesse spending at about 2 in the morning he took a horse from the shed and rode it about the fields and sprained it's leg. 14 days hard labour.

October 7th 1869

Died on August 17th at Cawnpore, Captain Frederick Van Hages Sperling of the Staffs Corps, the 3rd son of the late Mr C.A. Sperling of the Manor House at Stanmore.

October 21st 1869

Eliza Howe and Sarah Mason, married women of Stansfield were summoned for stealing a quantity of top wood from Houghton Grove, Cavendish, valued at 4s, the property of Mr Thomas Abbot, farmer of Swans Hall Stansfield. 7 days each.

October 21st 1869

William Bareham of Glemsford was charged with assaulting John Claydon Moore the landlord of the Crown Inn, Glemsford.
Moore said after hearing noise in the tap room he went in and found my wife talking to George Wordley, he was abusing her, he ordered Wordley out. When he stept inside the room, William Bareham and Wordley struck him and kicked him when he was down, he pushed Wordley out but they attacked him again and he received broken ribs. Committed for trial.

October 28th 1869

Milden. A serious case of stabbing occurred in this parish last week, it appears two boys, Robert Orford and Clarke Morley, were working together at Hall Farm when the latter called Orford by his nickname that was offensive to him and he struck Morley a slight blow on the face, Morley, who had a sharp knife in his hand which he was cleaning sugar beet with, immediately stabbed Orford in the side just below his heart, he was placed in a tumbril and conveyed home Mr Growse, surgeon was soon in attendance and speedily dressed the wound which was feared to be fatal but we are glad to say he is recovering. It will be found by our reporting of Bury Quarter Sessions that Morley was taken into custody and sentenced to 21 days.

October 28th 1869

Henry Ives 14 and Henry Chambers 12 were charged with stealing apples the property of The Rev E.Bull at Pentlow. 2 months in prison.

November 18th 1869

Died on August 31st at Auckland, New Zealand, James Wells late of Saxmundham.

November 18th 1869

Bulmer. On Tuesday afternoon a straw stack standing in the centre of four wheat stacks was ignited by a spark from a steam cultivating engine working on the farm of Mr John Keeble, only the straw stack was burnt down.

November 18th 1869

William Rippengale, labourer of Gestingthorpe was summoned for refusing to contribute to support his lunatic wife, he did not appear and a warrant was issued for his arrest

December 2nd 1869

Clare. On Monday afternoon Mr Gee of the Priory school discovered the rafters of the school room were alight, they had caught fire from the overheating of a pipe, he at once gave the alarm, Mr Taylor a bricklayer and a man named Ellingham who happened to be on the premises with great promptitude succeeded in preventing the fire from spreading.

December 9th 1869

Died on November 12th at Toronto, Canada West, Annie May, the only daughter of the late Samuel Cooper formerly of Stanstead Hall, Brettenham, Suffolk.

December 9th 1869

John Broyd, a labourer of Sible Hedingham, was charged with stealing a brass clock from his father Robert Broyd. 3 months.

December 16th 1869

Otten Belchamp. On Monday evening at about 6 whilst the storm was raging two sails of the mill occupied by Mr Walter Sparrow were blown off completely and carried some yards distant and some of the "middlings" were broken in half.

December 16th 1869

Brutal Husband at Melford. William Duce was brought up in custody on a complaint from his wife Sarah for assaulting her and threatening to kill her, it appears the defendant arrived home after drinking all day when he ill used her by striking her on her head with a stick, he has been before the bench before on a similar charge. To find sureties for £10 of 3 months.

December 16th 1869

During the terrific gale on Thursday night the windmill at Fenstead End Glemsford, belonging to Mr Finch was blown down, it is said it will cost upwards of £100 to repair.

December 16th 1869

Christmas Meat at Melford. Mr Ruse shows a splendid Shorthorn of 70 stone grazed by Ward and Silver at the Parsonage farm also two other Shorthorns of stupendous proportions and several capital sheep from the Kiln Farm. Mr Segers showed 6 good half breds of fine quality. Mr Allen has a splendid home bred from Mr George Ruffell and another two smaller ones from Mr Deeks and upwards of 50 fine turkies.

December 16th 1869

Birth at Pentlow Hall to the wife of Major Hinchcliff of a son.

December 16th 1869

Belchamp St Pauls. Preparing for a Merry Christmas. On Sunday night last 8 fat chickens were stolen for Mr John Carter and on Monday night the property of Mr Walter Chinery was broken open and 8 fat turkies were stolen.

December 23rd 1869

At a meeting of Hedingham Highway Board the bridge situated between Bulmer and Borley, Bardfield Bridge, was discussed and whether the owners either side were responsible for the upkeep of the bridge or the County. The bridge is in a dangerous state and work at the cost of £ 60 is required. It was resolved that 14 days notice be given to the owners of the property to that effect and local newspapers notified.