DOVER KENT ARCHIVES

Sort file:- Folkestone, September, 2022.

Page Updated:- Monday, 26 September, 2022.

PUB LIST PUBLIC HOUSES Paul Skelton and Jan Pedersen

Earliest 1857

West Cliff Shades

Latest July 1979

(Name to)

Christ Church Road

Folkestone

Westcliff Shades 1978

Above photograph kindly supplied by Jan Pedersen, 1978.

 

From the Folkestone Chronicle 18 June, 1864. Transcribed by Jan Pedersen.

ADVERT

"West Cliff Hotel Tap" And Livery Stables.

Upper Sandgate Road, Folkestone

T.W. Cobb begs to inform the Visitors, Gentry, and Inhabitants of Folkestone that he has opened the above house and trusts, by strict attention to business to merit a share of Public patronage.

Lock-up Coach Houses, Loose Boxes, Horses taken in at livery.

Licensed to let Carriages of every description on hire.

"West Cliff Hotel Tap" And Livery Stables.

 

Note: This refers to the "West Cliff Shades." Jan Pedersen.

 

 

Also known as the "West Cliff Tap" and was the tap room for the hotel with the same name.

Changed name to the "Happy Frenchman" and today it's the "Frenchman."

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

 

Folkestone Chronicle 18 June 1864.

Advert.

West Cliff Hotel Tap And Livery Stables.

Upper Sandgate Road, Folkestone.

T.W. Cobb begs to inform the Visitors, Gentry, and Inhabitants of Folkestone that he has opened the above house and trusts, by strict attention to business to merit a share of Public patronage.

Lock-up Coach Houses, Loose Boxes, Horses taken in at livery/

Licensed to let Carriages of every description on hire.

West Cliff Hotel Tap And Livery Stables.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 27 August 1864.

Wednesday 24th August:- Before Captain Kennicott R.N., James Tolputt, and A.M. Leith Esqs.

General Annual Licencing Meeting – Special Sessions.

Application for new licence was made by Mr. Minter, and granted, for the following person: Thomas William Cobb, West Cliff Hotel Tap.

 

Folkestone Observer 4 April 1868.

Wednesday, April 1st: Before The Mayor, Captain Leith, and R.W. Boarer Esq.

Transfer of license was granted to Mr. Cobb, West Cliff Tap, Sandgate Road.

 

Folkestone Express 4 April 1868.

Transfer of License.

Wednesday, April 1st: Before The Mayor, Capt. Leith, and Alderman Boarer.

The West Cliff Hotel Tap, from Mr. Pointer to Mr. Thomas Cobb.

Note: No record of Pointer is given in More Bastions.

 

Folkestone Express 23 May 1868.

Local Intelligence.

The West Cliff Tap was transferred from Mr. Pointer to T. Cobb on Wednesday last.

 

Folkestone Express 28 May 1870.

Transfer of License.

Wednesday, May 25th: Before The Mayor, R.W. Boarer, and C. Dashwood Esqs.

The license of Thomas Cobb to George Wright at the West Cliff Hotel Tap.

 

Folkestone Observer 7 July 1870.

Wednesday, July 6th: Before The Mayor, Capt. Kennicott, W. Bateman and J. Tolputt Esqs.

This was a special sessions for the transfer of licenses.

The West Cliff Tap was transferred from Thomas W. Cobb to George Wright.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 9 July 1870.

Wednesday July 6th: Before the Mayor, Capt. Kennicott R.N., W. Bateman and J. Tolputt Esqs.

This was a special sessions for the transfer of licenses. The West Cliff Tap was transferred from Thomas W. Cobb to George Wright.

 

Folkestone Express 9 July 1870.

Transfer of License.

Wednesday, July 6th: Before The Mayor, Captain Kennicott R.N., W. Bateman, and J. Tolputt Esqs.

West Cliff Hotel Tap: The license was transferred from Thomas Cobb to George Wright.

 

Folkestone Express 23 July 1870.

Advertisement.

George Wright, Wine and Spirit Merchant.

West Cliff Hotel Tap, Sandgate Road.

Families Supplied. Good Beds.

N.B. Large and commodious Billiard and Bagatelle Rooms.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 30 September 1871.

Thursday, September 28th: Before W. Bateman and J. Tolputt Esqs.

George Wright, landlord of the West Cliff Tap, was summoned by the Superintendent, charged with keeping his house open during prohibited hours last Sunday. A police constable went to the house and discovered that defendant had served some beer to customers, the remains of which were in pint pots on the counter.

Defendant said he had some lodgers in the house and they caused the door to be opened, and then people came in.

Mr. Bateman said that many complaints had been made about public houses opening on a Sunday, and the nuisance must be stopped. The Bench would therefore fine defendant £2 and costs, and hoped he would be more cautious in the future.

 

Folkestone Express 30 September 1871.

Thursday, September 28th: Before Dr. Bateman and Ald. Tolputt.

George Wright, of the West Cliff Tavern, was summoned on the information of P.C. Smith, for that on Sunday last he did unlawfully supply to certain men in his house, beer, within the prohibited hours of Sunday.

The defendant admitted the charge, saying that the man went into his house, and he yielded to the importunity.

The chairman said the offence was one of too common occurrence, and it must be severely punished. The Bench fined the defendant £2, with 9s. costs, in default one month imprisonment.

The money was paid.

 

Folkestone Express 1 June 1872.

Wednesday, May 29th: Before The Mayor, R.W. Boarer, J. Clarke and S. Eastes Esqs.

Mr. George Howse, West Cliff Hotel, applied for and obtained a temporary authority to sell at the Hotel Tap by George Wright, which was granted.

Note: More Bastions lists Wright as being there from 1870.

 

Southeastern Gazette 8 March 1875.

Local News.

On Monday last a valuable mare, the property of Messrs. Leney and Co., brewers, left in charge of a boy, at the West Cliff Tap, became restive, broke away and started down the Sandgate Road, when, coming in contact with a coal cart, a general smash of the vehicles occurred, fortunately without resulting in injury to either of the horses.

 

Folkestone Express 4 December 1875.

Saturday, November 27th: Before The Mayor, Col. De Crespigny, T. Caister and W.J. Jeffreason Esqs.

William Croucher, a cabman in the employ of Mr. Thomas Inman, innkeeper and fly proprietor, West Cliff, was charged with embezzling 2s., the monies of his master, on the 15th November.

Mr. Minter prosecuted.

Mr. Minter, having briefly opened the case, called Thomas Inman, innkeeper and fly proprietor, West Cliff, who said: Defendant was in my employ as fly driver for 10s. per week. On the previous Tuesday I gave him notice to leave in a week; that would be on Saturday, November 20th. Defendant's duty, when he received money, was to enter it in a book on the following day and pay it over to me. On Monday morning, the 15th, he went with his fly to Mrs. Williams, No. 10, Manor Road. I told him to go there. I never saw him again, as he did not come back. He had not booked any money taken on the Monday.

By defendant: I never saw you come to my yard. I distinctly deny it.

By the Bench: This is the first time I have seen him since.

Mrs. Emily Williams said: On the 15th November I had a fly from Mr. Inman's to go to Shorncliffe Station. I cannot swear that the defendant was the driver on that morning. I paid the driver, whoever he was, 2s. 6d., which would be 2s. for the fare and 6d. for himself.

Mr. Inman, re-called, said he saw the defendant leave the yard with the horse and fly.

Defendant: Didn't I come to your yard on the 17th to settle with you?

Prosecutor: No, I never saw you.

Mr. Minter applied for an adjournment in order to produce more evidence, and the case was therefore adjourned until Wednesday.

Wednesday, December 1st: Before The Mayor, Col. De Crespigny, T. Caister and J. Clark esqs.

William Croucher, a fly driver in the employ of Mr. Inman, cab proprietor, was charged on remand of embezzling 2s., the monies of his master.

The particulars of the case will be found in our police report of Saturday.

The evidence taken on Saturday having been read over by the Clerk to the Magistrates, Thomas Inman, re-called by Mr. Minter said the fare from Mrs. Williams' house to Shorncliffe was 2s.

Elizabeth Simmons said: I am in the service of Mrs. Williams. On the 15th ult. my mistress went to Shorncliffe in a cab. I saw her go away. The defendant is the man who took the box downstairs. I saw the fly, and the defendant was acting as the driver.

By the Bench: I saw defendant drive the fly away.

Thomas Taylor said: I am in the service of Mr. Inman and know the defendant.

Mr. Minter: Will you tell the Bench what you said to Mr. Inman relative to a conversation which took place between you and the defendant?

Witness: I know nothing. I have made no statement to Mr. Inman.

Mr. Minter: Did you not see defendant drive away on the day in question?

Witness: No I did not. I never said anything to Mr. Inman.

Mr. Minter: Did not defendant say anything to you?

Witness: No, sir. He only said he should keep what he had got. (Laughter)

George Winson said: I am in the employ of Mr. Inman and know defendant. When he went away on the Monday he said he should not come again. Defendant said nothing about any money.

Mr Minter: Did you hear Taylor make any statement to Mr. Inman?

Witness: No. I heard defendant say he should spend what he had got, and then he should be “straight” with Mr. Inman.

Mr. Minter applied for a remand until Saturday, which was granted by the Bench.

 

Folkestone Express 11 December 1875.

Saturday, December 4th: Before The Mayor, Col. De Crespigny, and T. Caister Esq.

William Croucher, a flyman, was again charged on remand with embezzling 2s., the monies of his master, Mr. Inman, cab proprietor.

Mr. Till, in the absence of Mr. Minter, appeared for the prosecution, and Mr. Fox, of Dover, for the defendant.

Mr. Inman was re-called, and in answer to Mr. Fox, said: Defendant has been in my employ for three months. It is a general rule for my men to come and settle with me every morning. Sometimes three or even four days elapse before they settle. I always settle with them for the week on Sunday morning. I do not supply any men with books to keep their accounts in. I gave defendant notice to leave on the 9th November and the time expired on the following Saturday. I told him on that day he could come again next week as he had nothing to do. He came on the following Monday. Sometimes the men buy candles for their lamps and charge me with the amount. He was my servant for another week. Mrs. Williams gave an order for a cab on the Monday, the 15th November, to go to Shorncliffe Station. I knew the fare would be 2s. and 6d. for the man. I saw defendant go out of the yard on that day. I cannot say that I did not see him again on that day. I did not see him on the Tuesday (next day) nor on the Wednesday. I am sworn. I did not see defendant in my yard on Wednesday evening between eight and nine o'clock. I did not say to defendant on the Wednesday evening “Is that you, Bill?” I will swear that. Defendant did not say he had come up to settle. I never saw him. I did not see a man named Boxer in my yard that evening. I never spoke to him about my son. I saw Thomas Taylor in my bar on Wednesday evening. Defendant has never made a claim against me for 3s. for money paid for repairs to a lamp of mine. It was my duty to find lamps for my carriages. The men generally buy candles and charge me with them. If defendant said he had received less than was due to him, I should pay him the difference. The man would stop the money if I owed him anything. I went to defendant's home on Tuesday evening, the 16th November, and saw his wife. She was crying.

Re-examined by Mr. Till: Defendant never made any claims against me for lamps and candles. He never came near after the Monday. Defendant did not come to me on the Tuesday or on the Wednesday. I know Boxer; he used to work for me. He was not in my yard to my knowledge. I saw Boxer and Thomas Taylor in my bar. There is a partition in the bar which would prevent me from seeing anyone behind it. I will swear that he never spoke to me. The notice expired on the Saturday, but as he came on the Monday I considered him my servant.

Mr. Fox then addressed the Bench for the defence. He said they were aware it was a serious charge – one of embezzlement – and he was sure the Bench would give their utmost attention to the facts of the case. They had heard from the prosecutor that the men were supposed to account every morning for what they had received on the previous day, but in cross-examination Mr. Inman said that sometimes went three or even four days without accounting, and at times bought candles for their lamps and stopped the money out of what they had received. If masters allowed their servants to make such matters a question of accounts, then the law provided that the remedy for the recovery of any balances lay by civil action in the County Court, and not by criminal action. In the present case there was no opportunity afforded the defendant of settling on the following Sunday because they were told that he had left on the previous Monday. He did so because he had been told by Mr. Inman that if he could not get anything else to do he was at liberty to leave. Now, he was not going to deny that the cab was sent to Mrs. Williams' house on the day in question, or that the money was paid for the fare. On the contrary, he was prepared on the part of defendant to say that Mrs. Williams did pay him 2s., and also gave him 6d. for himself, but he wished to state that if the defendant had had an opportunity of settling, the case would never have been brought before the Court. Mr. Inman had said that he never saw the defendant from the Monday in question until he saw him in Court, but he (the speaker) was prepared to bring forward witnesses who would swear that defendant went into Mr. Inman's yard on the Tuesday night, that Mr. Inman said “Is that you, Bill?”, and that defendant said it was and he had come to settle. Another witness would also say that he saw the defendant in Mr.Inman's bar on Wednesday night. He (the speaker) thought the statement of the prosecutor was calculated to mislead the Court. He understood that the defendant had paid 1s. for candles and 3s. for repairs done to the lamps. If that was true, then Mr. Inman was really indebted to the defendant. Defendant had lived in Folkestone many years; he bore an excellent character, and it really appeared to him (the speaker) that the prosecutor had come into Court to commit perjury.

Mr. Till said that Mr. Fox had stated it was a question of accounts, and as such could only be settled in the County Court. He was prepared to state that such was not the case, neither had it been proved to be so.

Henry Boxer: I am a fly driver, living in Folkestone. I know the defendant, and have known him for many years. He is a Folkestone man. I know Mr. Inman. On the 17th November I went with defendant to Mr. Inman's. It was between eight and nine o'clock in the evening. Mr. Inman came into the yard and said to defendant “Hello, Bill, is that you?” Defendant said it was and he had come up to settle, or something to that effect. I did not hear Mr. Inman make any reply. He went in the house. Defendant and I followed him in. Mr. Inman came in the bar soon after we got in. He could see us, and we could see him. I should think Mr. Inman was in the bar for an hour. Mr. Inman was betting that his son could clean tripe with any man in Folkestone. Defendant and he talked together about it. There were two men there, each of whose names was Thomas Taylor. I identify this one as one I saw there.

By Mr. Till: There were five or six other people in the bar. The other Thomas Taylor was in and out during the evening. I worked for Mr. Inman once, and I left because we had a quarrel. I charged a gentleman too much money. I charged the gentleman 7s. and gave Mr. Inman 5s. That is the only way of living. (Laughter)

Re-examined by Mr. Fox: The proper fare would be 5s. and that I gave to Mr. Inman.

Thomas Taylor: I am a dairyman and grocer, living in High Street. I know prosecutor and defendant. I have known the latter for a number of years. I know nothing against him. On Wednesday evening, November 17th, I saw defendant in Mr. Inman's bar between eight and nine o'clock. Mr. Inman came into the bar. I saw a man named Boxer there. Prosecutor and defendant spoke to each other. There was a conversation about Inman's son being a professional hand at cleaning tripe. (Laughter) Inman offered to bet anybody that his son could clean a certain quantity of tripe in a given time. (Renewed laughter)

By Mr. Till: I have not been in the bar since. I had a glass of ale.

Mr. Till: Only one?

Witness: Well, I might have had two or three. Perhaps half a dozen. (Laughter)

Mr. Till: How long does it take you to drink half a dozen glasses of ale?

Witness: Well, that all depends. I did not time myself.

Mr. Till: What time did you leave?

Witness: About ten o'clock.

Re-examined by Mr. Fox: Mr. Inman could see the defendant. I am sure he must have done so.

Joseph Whittingham, dealer, Folkestone, said he had known defendant about twelve years, during which time he had borne an excellent character.

After a short deliberation, the Mayor said that the evidence was not satisfactory, and the charge would therefore be dismissed.

This announcement was received with applause, which was at once suppressed.

The witness Boxer applied for costs, saying he had been subpoenaed to give evidence.

The Mayor, addressing the applicant, said he was glad he had returned into Court, as he wished to speak to him. The applicant in his evidence had acknowledged charging 7s. for a cab fare, the authorised amount for which was 5s. Such conduct could not be too highly deprecated, as it did a great amount of injury to business by preventing people from taking a carriage as often as they otherwise would do. He hoped that the applicant would discontinue the practice, as if another case came under the notice of the Bench he would lose his license.

The applicant, who appeared somewhat crestfallen at the result, then left the Court.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 16 September 1876.

The Bankruptcy Act 1869.

In the County of Kent, holden at Canterbury.

In the matter of a Special Resolution for Liquidation, by arrangement, of the affairs of Thomas Inman, the elder, of the West Cliff Hotel Tap, Folkestone, Kent, Inn and Livery Stable Keeper.

The Creditors of the above named Thomas Inman, the elder, who have not already proved their debts, are required on or before the 25th day of September instant to send their names and addresses, and the particulars of their debts to me, the undersigned James Pledge, of Folkestone, Kent, Auctioneer, and Trustee under the Liquidation, or in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefit of the Divident proposed to be declared.

Dated this 11th Day of September, 1876.

JAMES PLEDGE, Trustee.

 

Folkestone Express 28 October 1876.

Wednesday, October 25th: Before J. Tolputt Esq., Dr. Bateman, and Alderman Caister.

Application for the transfer of the license of the West Cliff Hotel Tap was made and granted.

 

Folkestone Express 12 January 1878.

Monday, 7th January: Before R.W. Boarer and F.C. Fletcher Esqs., and General Armstrong.

John Brian, no home, was charged with begging. A constable saw him go to the Club House and ask for assistance, and he was relieved. He then went round to the West Cliff Tap, where he bought some beer, and again begged. He was drunk, and very violent when taken into custody.

He was sentenced to 21 days' with hard labour.

 

Folkestone Express 3 July 1880.

Wednesday, June 30th: Before The Mayor, Aldermen Caister and Sherwood, W.J. Jeffreason and J. Clark Esqs.

Robert Downs was charged with using obscene language in Sandgate Road on the 29th April last.

Edmund Poynter, coachman to Sir Henry Hunt, said on the 29th April he saw the prisoner at the West Cliff Tap about half past one. There had been an argument between defendant and another man and they asked witness's opinion, which he gave. Defendant then commenced to abuse him in the most violent manner, and followed him into the street and wanted to fight.

He was fined 10s. and 11s. 6d. costs, or 14 days' imprisonment in default, with hard labour.

The Mayor thanked the prosecutor for proceeding with the case, the defendant having absconded and been apprehended on a warrant.

 

Folkestone Express 6 August 1887.

Wednesday, August 3rd: Before General Armstrong, Alderman Banks and Surgeon General Gilbourne.

The licence of the West Cliff Hotel Tap was transferred from Mr. C.W. Wedderburn to Mr. C. Lord.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 15 October 1887.

Thursday, October 13th: Before J. Fitness, J. Clark and J. Ward Esqs.

Mary Mitchell, and old woman, was charged with being drunk and disorderly at the West Cliff Shades on Wednesday.

The case was proved by Sergeant Harman, and prisoner was fined 5s. and 4s. 6d. costs, or seven days'.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 13 October 1888.

Monday, October 8th: Before The Mayor, Alderman Sherwood, J. Holden Esq., and Captain Carter.

John Roach, a sailor, belonging to H.M. Depot Ship Pembroke, of Chatham, was summoned for being drunk and disorderly and resisting the police in Christ Church Road on the previous Saturday.

P.C. W. Knott stated that he saw the defendant trying to get in to the West Cliff Shades, and as he was refused, he became very noisy. He was alone. The constable advised him to go away, but he refused to do so. His language was most obscene, and when taken into custody he became very violent. In the struggle they both fell to the ground, and the defendant for the collar of the constable's greatcoat (produced), and also struck him a severe blow in the face. It was only with the assistance of the military police that he was taken to the police station.

The defendant pleaded Guilty and expressed his sorrow at the occurrence. He did not know anything about it until he found himself in the police station on the following morning. He had never been in trouble before and had good conduct badges.

The Bench inflicted a fine of 5s. for being drunk, and 3s. 6d. costs; also 5s. for being disorderly and resisting the police, and 3s. 6d. costs.

The defendant paid the money, and also for the damage to the coat, 1s.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 16 March 1889.

Local News.

At the Folkestone police court on Monday, before Dr. Bateman and Messrs. Hoad and Fitness, Ann Norley was charged with being drunk and disorderly in Sandgate Road on Sunday night.

Sergeant Harman preferred the charge, to which the prisoner pleaded Guilty and made a rambling statement, describing herself as a cook, and living with a lady in the Sandgate Road.

She was very comfortable in her situation, and went out on Sunday to see her sister. She went into the West Cliff Tap – wasn't in there more than an hour - (Laughter) – and had a few glasses of stout – not many.

Dr. Bateman said the prisoner would be fined 5s. and 3s. 6d. costs, or seven days' imprisonment.

Prisoner: I've spent nearly all my money, sir. I've got fourpence. (Laughter)

A distraint warrant was ordered to be issued on her goods, if she had any.

 

Folkestone Express 16 March 1889.

Monday, March 12th: Before Dr. Bateman, J. Hoad and J. Fitness Esqs.

Ann Norley was charged with being drunk and disorderly in Sandgate Road on Sunday night.

Sergt. Harman said the prisoner was very drunk and in company with about six soldiers. He requested her to go home, but she refused. He followed her as far as Mr. Fitness's.

Prisoner said she was a cook and had a place in Clifton Gardens. She went out on Sunday to have tea with a friend.

The Magistrates' Clerk: You had something stronger than tea.

Prisoner admitted that she went to the West Cliff Shades and “had a lot of stout”.

She was fined 5s. and 3s. 6d. costs, and responded: “Oh, I haven't got any money. I have been a widow six years. I haven't got any money except 3d. I spent all the other. My clothes are at Clifton Gardens”.

She was ordered to be detained while a distress warrant was issued, and in default of goods being found, ordered seven days' hard labour.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 27 February 1897.

Saturday, February 20th: Before The Mayor, Messrs. J. Pledge, G. Spurgen, T.J. Vaughan, and J. Holden.

Mr. John Burgess was granted permission to sell at the West Cliff Hotel Tap.

Note: This does not appear in More Bastions. Maybe should have read Bergerson!

 

Folkestone Express 27 February 1897.

Saturday, February 20th: Before The Mayor, Aldermen Pledge and Spurgen, and J. Holden and T.J. Vaughan Esqs.

The licence of the West Cliff Tap was transferred to Mr. Bercheson (sic).

 

Folkestone Chronicle 13 March 1897.

Wednesday, March 10th: Before Messrs. W.G. Herbert, C.J. Pursey, and J. Pledge.

Mr. Burgess (sic) was granted the transfer of the licence of the West Cliff Hotel Tap.

 

Folkestone Express 25 September 1897.

Adjourned Brewster Sessions.

Wednesday, September 22nd: Before J. Fitness, W.G. Herbert, C.J. Pursey, J. Pledge, and H.D. Stock Esqs.

The West Cliff Shades.

The licence of these premises was transferred to Mr. William Patrick Barrett.

Note: No record of this in More Bastions.

 

Folkestone Herald 25 September 1897.

Police Court Report.

On Wednesday – Mr. Fitness presiding – a temporary authority was granted to Mr. Patrick Parrett, of the West Cliff Shades.

Note: This does not appear in More Bastions.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 9 October 1897.

Saturday, October 2nd: Before The Mayor and Messrs. J. Fitness, J. Pledge, J. Holden, T.J. Vaughan, and J. Hoad.

The licence of the West Cliff Shades was transferred to Mr. Schultz of the Paris Hotel.

 

Folkestone Express 9 October 1897.

Saturday, October 2nd: Before The Mayor, Alderman Pledge, T.J. Vaughan and J. Holden Esqs.

The licence of the West Cliff Shades was transferred to Mr. Schultz.

 

Folkestone Herald 9 October 1897.

Police Court Report.

On Saturday an application was made by Mr. Schultz for a temporary authority for the West Cliff Tavern for the brewers, while he was yet managing the Paris Hotel, which he was going to leave.

Superintendent Taylor stated that the applicant was a highly respectable man, but he considered both houses required a responsible manager. The Bench, the Mayor not taking part in this, thought the application was premature, but the applicant could renew it when the coast was clear.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 11 December 1897.

Wednesday, December 8th: Before The Mayor, Messrs. J. Fitness, and W.G. Herbert.

Mr. Schultz was granted the transfer of the licence of the West Cliff Shades.

 

Folkestone Express 11 December 1897.

Wednesday, December 8th: Before The Mayor, J. Fitness, and W.G. Herbert Esqs.

The licence of the West Cliff Shades was transferred to Mr. Schultz.

 

Folkestone Herald 11 December 1897.

Local News.

The following licence was transferred on Wednesday at the sitting of the Folkestone Justices: West Cliff Shades to Mr. Schultz.

 

Folkestone Express 11 January 1902.

Wednesday, January 8th: Before W.G. Herbert, C.J. Pursey, and G.I. Swoffer Esqs.

Frank Epps, a cabman, denied that he left his horse and cart unattended at 10.30 p.m. on the 1st inst. in Christ Church Road.

P.C. Thomas Wm. Allen said on the 1st inst., about 10.35 p.m., he saw a horse and carriage unattended opposite the West Cliff Shades in Christ Church Road. He kept observation, and it was unattended for 20 minutes, at the end of which time the defendant came out of the private bar of the public house. When informed, the defendant said “If you give me another chance I won't do it again”.

Corporal Arthur Epps and Corporal Wm. Wilson, both of the 1st Dragoons, who were in the public house, testified that as it was a very wet night the cabman stood in the doorway. They did not leave the theatre till twenty five minutes to eleven and did not arrive at the public house till quarter to eleven, which made it impossible for them to be there twenty minutes, as the house closed at eleven.

The Constable here said he timed the defendant by the Christ Church clock.

After a short consultation, the Bench said they would give the defendant the benefit of the doubt, and they discharged him.

 

Folkestone Express 3 January 1903.

Friday, January 2nd: Before Aldermen Penfold, Spurgen, and Vaughan.

Andrew Wilson was charged with begging.

Detective Burniston said from information received he went to West Cliff Shades on Christmas Eve, where he saw prisoner, and followed him to Ingles Road, where he called at a house and handed in a letter for the mistress of the house, who sent out 6d. to him. Witness then arrested prisoner, who became very violent.

The letter was read by the Bench, and it concluded by wishing the person to whom it was addressed the compliments of the season, which was characterised by one of the Magistrates as the height of impudence. Two other similar documents were found in the prisoner's possession, and Superintendent Reeve said the man had done no work for months.

Prisoner was sentenced to seven days' hard labour.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 16 May 1903.

Wednesday, May 13th: Before Lieut. Colonel Fynmore and Lieut. Col. Westropp.

The licence of the West Cliff Shades was temporarily transferred from Frederick Schutz to Walter Barker.

 

Folkestone Express 16 May 1903.

Wednesday, May 13th: Before Lieut. Col. Fynmore and Lieut. Col. Westropp.

A temporary transfer of the licence was granted to Walter Barker, of the West Cliff Shades, the outgoing tenant being Frederick Schulz.

 

Folkestone Herald 16 May 1903.

Wednesday, May 13th: Before Lieut Colonels Fynmore and Westropp.

The following temporary transfer of licence was granted: The West Cliff Shades from Frederick Schutz to Walter Barker.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 30 May 1903.

Wednesday, May 27th: Before Mr. W. Wightwick, Lieut. Col. Westropp, Lieut. Col. Hamilton, Colonel Fynmore, and Messrs. W.G. Herbert, G.I. Swoffer, E.T. Ward, and T.J. Vaughan.

The licence of the West Cliff Shades was transferred from Walter Schutz to Fredk. Henry Parker.

 

Folkestone Express 30 May 1903.

Wednesday, May 27th: Before Alderman Vaughan, Lieut. Colonels Westropp, Fynmore and Hamilton, G.I. Swoffer, W. Wightwick, E.T. Ward, and W.G. Herbert Esqs.

The following transfer was granted: The West Cliff Shades from Frederick Schulz to Walter Herbert Barker.

 

Folkestone Herald 30 May 1903.

Wednesday, May 27th: Before Mr. W. Wightwick, Alderman T.J. Vaughan, Lieut. Colonels Westropp, Hamilton, and Fynmore, Messrs. W.G. Herbert, J. Pledge, and G.I. Swoffer.

The following temporary transfer was confirmed by the Bench: West Cliff Shades, from Mr. F. Schultz to Mr. W.H. Park (sic).

 

Folkestone Herald 3 October 1903.

Inquest.

Yesterday afternoon the Borough Coroner, Mr. G.W. Haines, conducted an inquiry at the Town Hall respecting the circumstances attending the death of John Doherty, an out-porter.

Francis Baker, barman at the West Cliff Shades, identified the body as that of John Doherty. The deceased had said lately that he was 65 years of age. He had no home, and slept where he could. Doherty was an old soldier, having served in several campaigns. He was the possessor of several medals. Witness had never known him draw a pension, although he had been in the Queen's Bays, 4th Hussars, and the “Buffs” Militia. Very often witness had supplied Doherty with a meal. On Thursday, about a quarter past one, he came to the Shades, and said that he was hungry. Witness replied that if he kept himself quiet he should have a dinner. He was quite sober, but was inclined to be noisy. He had two-pennyworth of rum, but he did not drink it. Half an hour later witness gave him a dinner, consisting of some cabbage, potatoes, liver and bacon, and the deceased went into another room to eat it. Ten minutes afterwards witness was called to the yard by a man named Johnson, who said “There is something the matter with Jimmy. I do not like the look of him”. Witness went into the yard and saw the old porter lying there quite still. A doctor was sent for. Subsequently witness ascertained that Doherty had not eaten much of the repast.

Thomas Johnson, a bathchair man, of 14, Church Street, said he knew the deceased well. On Thursday, witness was having his food in the “Shades”, when deceased came into the room and sat at the same table. He had a hot dinner. Before he had finished the meal he left the room, and witness next saw him lying in the yard.

Thomas Heath, a stableman, living at Clifton Mews, said that he knew Doherty by sight. Witness was in the West Cliff Shades the previous day, and going out into the yard, he saw the deceased lying on the ground. He was on his side, and witness, thinking that he was in a fit, turned him on his back. There was no gurgling or choking sound. His lips were blue, and his mouth was wide open.

Mr. Yunge Bateman said he examined the man and saw a large piece of partially masticated meat in the thorax. Two policemen, under witness's instruction, tried artificial respiration, but the heart did not beat. Death was due to suffocation caused by choking.

A verdict was returned in accordance with the medical testimony.

 

Folkestone Express 10 October 1903.

Inquest.

On Friday morning the Borough Coroner (Mr. G.W. Haines) held an inquest at the Town Hall touching the death of James Dogherty, who expired suddenly the previous day.

Francis Baker said that he resided at the West Cliff Shades, where he was employed as barman. He knew deceased, who informed him that he was 65 years of age. He had no fixed abode. Dogherty was an old soldier, having served in the Queen's Bays and 4th Hussars, and had several medals, but witness did not know whether he was a pensioner. Deceased was often pinched for a meal, and witness on more than one occasion had supplied him with food. The previous day, about 1.15, deceased came to the West Cliff Shades and said that he was hungry. Witness told him to keep quiet and he should have a dinner. He was quite sober, but was naturally inclined to be noisy. About 1.40 witness handed deceased some cabbage, potatoes, liver and bacon, which was part of witness's dinner. Deceased then took the food in another room. Ten minutes later witness was called to the urinal, where he saw deceased lying on his side quite still. Witness thought he was dead, and sent for a doctor. He had eaten but very little of his dinner.

Thomas Johnson, a bathchair-man, of No. 28. Church Street, said that he had seen deceased at the West Cliff Shades on several occasions. The previous day deceased came into the same room as witness with his dinner. After a few seconds he went out, and after about eight minutes a man called out “Come and look at Jimmy”. Witness went, and not liking the look of deceased's face, he called the manager.

Thomes Heath, a stableman, residing at Clifton Mews, said he was in the bar of the West Cliff Shades on Thursday, and happening to go to the lavatory he found deceased lying there. He was insensible, and thinking deceased was in a fit he called the last witness. Deceased was very blue about the lips, and his tongue was swollen.

Dr. Bateman deposed that the previous day, shortly before two o'clock, he was called to the West Cliff Shades, where he found Dogherty lying on his back. Witness examined his throat, and found a large piece of partially masticated meat in his larynx. Deceased was carried into the house, and with the assistance of two police constables witness tried artificial respiration for half an hour, but without success. Death was due to suffocation.

A verdict of “Accidental Death” was returned.

 

Folkestone Express 15 February 1913.

Annual Licensing Sessions.

The Brewster Sessions were held on Wednesday morning. The Justices present were E.T. Ward Esq., Major Leggett, Lieut. Col. Fynmore, Lieut. Col. Hamilton, G. Boyd, G.I. Swoffer, R.J. Linton, and J. Stainer Esqs. Mr. Boyd and Mr. Stainer did not take part in the licensing business, not being on the committee.

Plans were submitted for interior alterations at the West Cliff Shades, and the Chairman said they had examined them, but they would like to see the premises before deciding. The application was therefore adjourned until the 10th March.

 

Folkestone Herald 15 February 1913.

Annual Licensing Sessions.

Wednesday, February 12th: Before Mr. E.T. Ward, Lieut. Col. Fynmore, Lieut. Col. Hamilton, Major Leggett, Mr. W.G. Herbert, Mr. J. Stainer, and Mr. G. Boyd.

Application was made on behalf of the Ashford Breweries for sanction to certain interior alterations at the West Cliff Shades for the provision of two bedrooms. It was stated that the plans had been filed with the Clerk, and were in order.

The Chairman remarked that the Bench had seen the plans, but they would like to see the premises before they consented to the alterations. Therefore they would visit the premises, and the matter would come up again at the transfer sessions.

 

Folkestone Express 19 July 1913.

Monday, July 14th: Before Alderman Penfold and G. Boyd Esq.

Edward Moran was charged with begging on Saturday night. He pleaded Guilty.

P.C. Cox said at 10.40 on Saturday night he saw the prisoner come out of the West Cliff Shades, and he went into Sandgate Road, where he stopped a gentleman. He went a little further down and stopped two other gentlemen. He then turned round to him (witness), he being in plain clothes, and said “Will you give me something to make up the money for my bed?” He told him he was a police officer, and the prisoner said “I have just had two pints, and I wanted to make the money up”. When searched, tenpence in coppers, a soldier's discharge papers, and a pawn ticket were found on the prisoner.

The prisoner said the pawn tickets were for two medals. He only came in the town on Saturday. He had had a sprained ankle. He had two pints of beer, but they were given to him. He had not done any begging before then.

The Chief Constable (Mr. Reeve) said the prisoner was a stranger. There was, he was sorry to say, a large number of such men in the town at the present time.

Sent to prison for twenty one days' hard labour.

 

Folkestone Express 3 January 1914.

Saturday, December 27th: Before The Mayor, Councillors C.E. Mumford and W.G. Harrison, and Messrs. Stainer, Swoffer, and Boyd.

John Harrison was charged with begging. He pleaded Not Guilty.

P.C. Bourne said about six o'clock the previous evening he was on duty in Sandgate Road near Christ Church when he saw the prisoner accosting foot passengers, and he received something from three different persons. He then went into the West Cliff Shades, and later returned, and he received something from a young man. He told him he should take him to the police station, and he replied “Don't charge me with begging. Charge me with selling lavender”. On searching him, he found one penny in his possession.

The Chief Constable said prisoner was a perfect bully, and he had been convicted for bad as well as minor offences.

One month's hard labour.

 

Folkestone Herald 3 January 1914.

Saturday, December 27th: Before The Mayor, Mr. J. Stainer, Mr. G.I. Swoffer, Mr. G. Boyd, Councillor Mr. W.J. Harrison, and Councillor C.E. Mumford.

John Harrison was charged with begging. He pleaded Not Guilty.

P.C. Bourne said that at about 6.30 the previous evening he saw prisoner in the Sandgate Road, near Christ Church. He was accosting foor passengers, and witness saw him receive money from three. He then went into the West Cliff public house. Half an hour later, witness again saw him in Sandgate Road, near the same place, accosting foot passengers. Harrison received money from a young man, and asked two ladies for something towards a night's lodging. When searched at the police station, prisoner was found to have a few packets of lavender and one or two post cards on him.

The Chief Constable said he knew prisoner to be a perfect bully. In December, 1911, he committed a most violent and unprovoked assault upon a gentleman who refused to assist him, for which he was committed for fourteen days. There was also a conviction against him at Dover for being drunk and assaulting the police.

The Chairman said that men such as prisoner were a curse to the neighbourhood. The Lower and Upper Sandgate Road were infested by them. The Bench wanted to get rid of them. Prisoner would be sentenced to one month's hard labour.

 

Folkestone Express 25 October 1919.

Friday, October 17th: Before Col. Owen and other Magistrates.

Robert Wilson was charged with obtaining £5 by false pretences from William Muddle on the 4th October.

Det. Con. Butcher said that at 3 p.m. on Thursday he saw prisoner detained at Lime Street police station, London. He told him he was a police officer from Folkestone, and that a warrant had been issued for his arrest for obtaining five £1 Treasury Notes by false pretences from Mr. William Muddle on the 4th October, with intent to defraud. He cautioned him, and prisoner replied “It is all a fake. I wrote the cheques and letters myself. I didn't know any person of the name of Lewis at St. Margaret's Chambers, Victoria Street”. He brought Wilson back to Folkestone, read the warrant to him, and showed him the letter and cheque (produced). He replied “Quite right”.

Prisoner was remanded in custody until yesterday (Thursday).

The accused was again brought before the Magistrates yesterday (Thursday) morning.

Two further charges were preferred against the prisoner, one of obtaining £2 from Mr. Barker, the landlord of the West Cliff Shades, and also of obtaining £5 10s. from Miss Stay, greengrocer, Guildhall Street, both sums being obtained under false pretences.

Mr. Walter William Muddle, managing director to Mr. William Muddle, grocer, 26, Bouverie Road West, said he identified prisoner. On the 4th October, from something he was told by a clerk in his employment, he proceeded to the Metropole Hotel about 3.30 p.m. He saw the prisoner there at the receiving office. He knew prisoner was in the employ of the hotel company, and he had done business with him on previous occasions. He had a conversation with the prisoner with regard to the price of goods to be supplied to the hotel. After that prisoner took a letter and a cheque from his pocket, and said he was entitled to some money from a private estate, and that the cheque had come through from a trustee. Prisoner asked him to pay the cheque in through his (witness's) bank, and asked him to let him have some money on it. He believed, in consequence of what the accused said, that the letter and cheque were genuine, and that the cheque would be honoured on presentation. He told Wilson he would let him have £5 on account of the cheque, and prisoner said he would call at the shop when he left work at six o'clock. Witness then left, taking the letter and the cheque with him. Prisoner called at the shop shortly after six o'clock, and five £1 Treasury Notes were paid to him by the cashier in his presence. The accused then left the shop. The cheque was endorsed “R. Wilson” when it was handed to him. Witness paid the cheque into the bank on the 6th, and received it back on the 9th marked “No Account”. He saw the accused in the shop about 3.30 on the afternoon of the 9th, and told him the cheque had been returned marked “No Account”. Prisoner said he had been having a few days' holiday, and had been to London, that the man Lewis had no money in the bank, and that he (prisoner) would have to pay the money himself. He asked the prisoner if he could find the money himself, and he replied that he would let him have £5 at the Hotel Metropole at 12 o'clock on Saturday. He had not received the money, or any part of it. On the 16th he took out a warrant for the prisoner's arrest.

Mr. Walter Herbert Barker, the proprietor of the West Cliff Shades, said he had known the prisoner as a customer for the last seven or eight weeks. Prisoner went to his house about 6.30 p.m. on the 6th October, and produced from his pocket book a cheque and letter, the latter being signed by Lewis, and the money order being for £10 10s. Wilson asked him if he would cash the cheque, and he replied he was not in the habit of cashing cheques. Prisoner then asked him to pay it through his account and asked him to advance £2 on it. He gave him two £1 Treasury Notes, and told prisoner to call on the Thursday or Friday for the balance, and he said “All right”. Before he advanced the money he read the letter and cheque, and he believed the letter was a genuine communication. On the 7th he paid the cheque into his bank, and it was returned on the 9th marked “No Account”. He had not seen the prisoner since he called on the 6th, and he had not received his £2, or any portion of it.

Miss Nancy Stay, greengrocer, 50, Guildhall Street, said the prisoner went to her shop about 2 o'clock on the 9th October. On several occasions she had done business with the prisoner on behalf of the Hotel Metropole, where he was employed. On this occasion prisoner handed her a cheque for £5 10s., signed by Mr. Lewis, and asked her if she would change it, and she did so. Prisoner said it was a cheque from his sister. It was endorsed “R. Wilson”. She gave prisoner notes to the value of £5 10s. He left the shop, and she had not seen him since. She had not received her £5 10s. She changed the cheque because she knew him through business transactions, and she believed the cheque would be honoured on presentation. The cheque was paid into the bank the same day, and returned on the 13th marked “No Account”.

Mr. George Collier, clerk at the Metropole Hotel, said the prisoner had gone to the hotel on July 16th as receiving clerk, and remained in that capacity until October 6th. On that day he said he felt ill, and wished to take the day off instead of the following Wednesday. Witness agreed to that, and prisoner left that day, returning the following Thursday morning. He left again between 9 and 10 a.m. and never returned.

Mr. P. Johnson, cashier, Lloyd's Bank, Holborn Circus, examined two of the cheques drawn on his bank, and said they had no customer of the name of “J.B.D. Lewis”, and so far as he knew they never had had.

Mr. P. Raynor, clerk at Barclay's Bank, Victoria Street, London, said they had no customer of the name of “J.B.D. Lewis”.

The accused was committed for trial at the Quarter Sessions.

 

Folkestone Herald 1 November 1919.

Thursday, October 24th: Before Col. G.P. Owen, Mr. J.H. Blamey, Mr. L.G.A. Collins and Mr. E. Condy.

Robert Wilson was charged on demand with obtaining money on false pretences from W.W. Muddle Ltd., of 26, Bouverie Road West.

The Chief Constable said that there were now two additional charges against the defendant.

Mr. Walter William Muddle, managing director of Muddle Ltd., grocers, stated that on October 4th defendant asked him to cash a cheque for £10, saying that he had some money due to him from some land and the cheque was from one of the trustees. Witness gave him £5 on account, and later paid the cheque into his bank. The cheque was drawn on Barclays Bank, London, and was signed “J.D. Lewis”. Later the cheque was returned to him marked “No Account”. He saw defendant, who promised to pay him the money, but he had never received it. On the 16th instant he took out a warrant for the man's arrest.

Mr. Walter Herbert Barker, of the West Cliff Shades, said he had known defendant as a customer for about 7 or 8 weeks. On the 6th instant defendant asked him to cash a cheque for £5 5s., drawn on Lloyd's Bank, Holborn Circus, signed “J.D. Lewis”. Witness gave him £2 on account, and paid the cheque into his account. On the following Tuesday it was returned marked “No Account”.

Miss Nancy Stay, fruiterer and greengrocer, of 26, Guildhall Street, said defendant had had some business transactions with her. On the 9th October she cashed a cheque for £5 10s. for him. It was drawn on Lloyd's Bank, Holborn Circus, and was signed “J.D. Lewis”. She paid the cheque into her bank, but on the following Monday it was returned to her marked “No Account”.

Mr. George Collier, control clerk at the Hotel Metropole, said defendant first came to them on 6th July, 1919. On the 6th instant he was away owing to illness, but he came back on the following Wednesday and asked for time off. He went away and never returned.

Mr. Percival Johnston, cashier at Lloyd's Bank, Holborn Circus, said that they had no customer by the name of J.D. Lewis or any account in that name.

Mr. Peter Rayner, clerk at Barclay's Bank, Victoria Street, London, said that they had no customer of the name of J.D. Lewis or any account bearing that name.

Defendant was committed for trial at the next Quarter Sessions.

 

Folkestone Express 10 January 1920.

Quarter Sessions.

Monday, January 5th: Before Sir Lewis Coward.

Robert Wilson (48), clerk, pleaded Guilty to three charges of obtaining money by false pretences with intent to defraud as follows: £5 from Mr. W.W. Muddle, £2 from Mr. W.H. Barker, and £5 10s. from Miss Nancy Stay. He admitted a previous conviction at the Marlborough Police Court. Mr. E.A. Wetton (instructed by Mr. A.F. Kidson) appeared for the Crown.

In outlining the case, he said the man was employed at the Hotel Metropole, where, during the railway strike, he saw Mr. Muddle and showed him a letter addressed to Mr. Lewis, of St. Margaret's Chambers, Victoria Street, and asked him to change a cheque. Mr. Muddle did so, and eventually Mr. Muddle sent the cheque to the bank, but it was returned marked “No Account”. A similar procedure took place in the other two cases. The prisoner had been employed at the Hotel Metropole as an entry clerk for about three months.

Det. Sergt. Squire, C Division, Metrpolitan Police, stationed at Vine Street, said he was present at Marlborough Street Police Court on August 24th, 1918, when the prisoner was sentenced to three months' and three months' hard labour, to run consecutively, for obtaining £3 10s. by means of a worthless cheque. The reason why he was dealt with for the two offences was that the prisoner went on one day to the Dairy Company's manageress and asked her to cash the cheque. She did not care to cash the cheque without her principal's authority, but she gave him £2, and the following morning he went and collected 30s. The Magistrate thought there were two offences. There were five other convictions, the first being two terms of three months at Marylebone on December 6th, 1910 for stealing money and embezzlement. He was sentenced to six months' hard labour at Devon Assizes on October 30th, 1912, for false pretences and stealing clothing. He was bound over in his own recognisances at Clerkenwell on July 3rd, 1913, for fraud, and on June 9th, 1914, he was sentenced to 12 months' hard labour at the County of London Sessions for housebreaking. He received six months' hard labour at Clerkenwell in October, 1916, for stealing a bag containing clothes. He believed the prisoner's people were well-to-do. He was a native of Carshalton, in Surrey.

Mr. Collyer, Control Clerk at the Hotel Metropole, said the Manager of the Hotel received a very good character from the Manager of the Burlington Hotel, Dover, regarding the prisoner.

The Recorder said it was unfortunate for such a man as the prisoner to have got into the employ of the Hotel Metropole and to have been in the capacity he was.

Mr. Collyer, answering further questions, said the prisoner was receiving 45s. a week and his food.

The Recorder said the prisoner had pleaded Guilty to a succession of serious charges. It was his duty to warn the prisoner that if he came again before another Court he would be sent away for a very long time. Those were very clever frauds. His record would justify him (the Recorder) in sending him to penal servitude. He would have one more chance, and he would be imprisoned with hard labour for twelve calendar months.

 

Folkestone Herald 10 January 1920.

Quarter Sessions.

Monday, January 5th: Before Sir Lewis Coward.

Robert Wilson, aged 48, a clerk, was indicted for obtaining £5 by false pretences from Walter William Muddle, also £2 from William Hubert Barker, and £5 10s. from Nancy Stay, in October. Prisoner pleaded Guilty to all three counts.

Mr. E.A. Whetton, who appeared for the Crown, said Wilson went to Mr. William Muddle and asked him to cash a cheque for him, which was signed by “J.D. Lewis”. Prisoner made a statement that through the railway strike he was unable to get some money through. He presented similarly signed cheques to the two other prosecutors. The accused had been employed at an hotel as an entry clerk.

Detective Sergeant Squires, C Division, Metropolitan Police, stated that at Marlborough Street Police Court on August 24th, 1918, prisoner was sentenced to six months for obtaining £3 10s. by a worthless cheque. There were five other convictions against him. One was at Marlborough Street Police Court on December 6th, 1910, when he was given three months for stealing money. He then got six months at Devon Assizes on 30th October, 1912, for stealing and false pretences. He was before the Magistrates at Clerkenwell in 1913 for fraud, and on 9th June, 1914, he got 12 months at the County of London Sessions. He received six months at Clerkenwell also for stealing. In the Devon case it was stated that he had been employed at an hotel, and witness believed he had been going round the country working at different hotels. His people, he understood, were quite well-to-do.

The control clerk at an hotel said prisoner entered their employ on July 16th last. The management, he understood, had a good reference from an hotel at Dover.

The Recorder, in passing sentence of 12 months' hard labour, warned the accused that if he came before any court again he would be put away for some time. They were very clever frauds. The record before him would justify any judge in sending him to penal servitude.

 

Folkestone Express 4 August 1923.

Local News.

Tuesday, July 31st: Before Mr. G.I. Swoffer, Col. P. Broome-Giles, Mr. A. Stace, Alderman Dunk, Miss L. Weston, Dr. Nuttall, and Mr. G. Boyd.

Mr. Barker, West Cliff Shades, applied for permission to sell intoxicants on the Leas Sports Ground, on the occasion of the Cheerful Sparrows' Fete, on Wednesday and Thursday next, from 2.30 to 10.30.

The Clerk pointed out that the Act of Parliament only allowed the licence to be granted until ten o'clock.

Mr. F. Seager (Secretary of the Cheerful Sparrows) said they must be content with ten o'clock.

The licence was granted until ten o'clock.

 

Folkestone Herald 4 August 1923.

Local News.

At the Folkestone Petty Sessions on Tuesday, Mr. W.J. Barker, of the West Cliff Shades, applied for a licence to sell at the Cheerful Sparrows' Fete on the Leas Sports Ground on Wednesday and Thursday, 8th and 9th inst., from 2.30 till 10.30.

The Magistrates' Clerk (Mr. J. Andrew) stated that the Act of Parliament provided that permission should not be granted for later than 10 p.m., unless for the purpose of a public dinner or ball.

Mr. F. Seager (Secretary of the Cheerful Sparrows) amended the application for permission to sell till 10 p.m., and the Justices gave their sanction.

 

Folkestone Herald 20 January 1934.

Obituary.

Much regret was expressed on Friday of last week when it became known that Mr. Walter Herbert Barker had passed away at his residence in Christ Church Road after a sudden seizure, from which he never rallied.

The late Mr. Barker, who was 58 years of age, was a son of the late Mr. R. Barker, of Windfarthing (Norfolk), and had resided in Folkestone for over 30 years.

He was widely known amongst a large section – visitors and residents alike – as lessee of the West Cliff Shades. Mr. Barker's one desire was to keep up the tone of the Shades, and this he did to a marked degree.

Mr. Barker was a much respected member of the local Licensed Victuallers' Association, and used his quiet but nonetheless useful influence in upholding the dignity of the trade.

The late Mr. Barker was gifted by nature with a sunny disposition. He was courteous and affable, not only to his customers, but to all – be they rich or poor – with whom he was brought into contact. There is a volume contained in the words “A Perfect English Gentleman” – the late Mr. Barker was that.

He leaves a widow and three children (two sons and one daughter), and to them much sympathy is extended. It is of interest to note that Mr. L. Barker, a brother, is the proprietor of the Prince Albert Hotel, Rendezvous Street, and was for several years a member of the House of Commons Police.

The funeral took place on Tuesday at Golder's Green Crematorium.

 

Folkestone Express 10 February 1934.

Annual Licensing Sessions.

Wednesday, February 7th: Before Alderman R.G. Wood, Dr. W.W. Nuttall, Mr. W. Smith, Mr. J.H. Blamey, Mr. F. Seager, Councillor W. Hollands, and Eng. Rear Admiral L.J. Stephens.

Mr. R. Dallas Brett applied on behalf of Mrs. B.A. Barker, widow of the late licensee of the West Cliff Shades, Mr. W.H. Barker, who died on the 12th January, for the transfer of the justices' licence which he held there. He said that she had already been accepted as tenant by the brewers concerned.

The Chief Constable said that the late licensee had carried on the business of the house since 1903. It was not altogether desirable that a woman should hold a public house licence, and he had taken the trouble to ensure that Mrs. Barker was protected by her son in that case. He understood that he was going to devote less time to his other business, which was close by, and more time to the licensed house.

The Chairman: I think the Justices will agree with that remark.

The transfer was granted.

 

Folkestone Herald 10 February 1934.

Annual Licensing Sessions.

Mr. Dallas Brett applied on behalf of Mrs. Barker, the widow of the late Mr. W.H. Barker, of the West Cliff Shades, and applied for a transfer of the licence to herself. Mrs. Barker, he said, had already been accepted as the new tenant by the brewers, and she also had a number of references, which were submitted.

The Chief Constable said the references were perfectly satisfactory. Continuing, he said it was not desirable that a woman should hold a public house licence, but he had taken the trouble to investigate the application of Mrs. Barker, and found she was protected by her son, and he understood that he was going to devote more time to the licensed business, and less to his own.

The transfer was granted.

 

Folkestone Herald 5 August 1939.

Local News.

There was a sequel to police observations on the West Cliff Shades public house, Christ Church Road, Folkestone, at Folkestone Petty Sessions yesterday, when William Henry Wood, of 5, Ingles Mews, Folkestone was summoned for on July 12th and certain other dates using the premises for the purpose of betting. Walter Aubrey Edward Hill, of 51, St. Michael's Street, Folkestone, was summoned for on the same dates aiding and abetting Wood. Mr. Lloyd Bunce appeared for Wood. Both defendants pleaded Guilty.

Mr. B.H. Bonniface, who prosecuted, said Hill was a barman at the West Cliff Shades. On four successive days, July 12th, 13th, 14th and 15th, P.C. Welch kept observation in these premises in the bar itself. During those days betting was going on openly in the bar, Hill taking bets and putting them in a drawer. The licensee was not there, Hill being in sole charge at the time. When the other defendant came in on each day he look the betting slips and the money away with him.

P C. Welch said he kept observation in the public bar of the West Cliff Shades from 12.15 p.m. to 2.15 p.m. on July 12th.

Hill was there the whole time, and there were about 15 men present. He saw one man go up to Hill, hand him a piece of paper and money over the counter, which Hill put in a drawer. He later saw another man write something on a piece of paper and hand it with money to Hill. He saw Wood visit the premises with another man. Hill handed Wood something. He again kept observation from 11.40 a.m. to 2.10 p.m. on July 13th. He saw various people write out slips and with money hand them to Hill. Wood came into the premises about 1 p.m. with the same man as the day before. Wood stood talking to Hill, who then went to a drawer, took out a small blue paper bag and handed it to Wood, who put it in his pocket. About 1.10 p.m. a man present went to Wood and placed a small piece of paper with a coin in his hand. Another man did the same thing shortly after. On July 14th slips and money were again passed over to Hill. Wood later came into the premises and stood talking to Hill. Hill went to a drawer underneath the counter, took out another blue paper bag and handed it over to Wood, who then put it into his pocket.

Inspector J. Rowe said about 1.25 p.m. on July 15th he entered the premises by virtue of a warrant. Hill was behind the bar and Wood was on the customers' side of the counter. In Wood's possession he found a blue bag containing two betting slips on which were written the names of four horses running that day at Sandown Park. He also had in his possession 18s. 5½d., ten other slips and a number of "Football Naps".

Mr. Lloyd Bunce said Wood was not a bookie or engaged in the betting business; he was a chauffeur. He was asked by friends “to put something on" for them. Having received the slips he handed them on to another party who in turn passed them on to a bookmaker. He took these bets as a favour for some friends, not realising that he was breaking the law in any way.

Continuing, Mr Lloyd Bunce said Wood, who was a man of good character, was an "Old Contemptible'.' He was in the front line trenches from September 8th, 1914, and served until the end of the war. He was three times mentioned in dispatches and he received the Military Medal for bravery in the field. He also had the Meritorious Service Medal and the Mons Star.

Hill said he was very sorry for what had happened; it would never happen again.

The Magistrates fined each defendant £1, and ordered Wood to pay £2 4s. 9d. costs and Hill costs amounting to £2.

 

Folkestone Express 12 August 1939.

Local News.

Police observation on a Folkestone public house resulted in two men appearing before the Folkestone Magistrates on Friday. They were William Henry Wood, a chauffeur, of Ingles Mews, Folkestone, who was fined £1 with £2 4s. 9d. costs for using the West Cliff Shades in Christ Church Road for the purpose of betting on horse racing, and Walter Aubrey Hill, a barman, of St. Michael's Street, Folkestone, who was also fined £1 and £2 costs for aiding and abetting Wood.

Mr. Lloyd Bunce appeared for Bruce and pleaded Guilty. Hill entered a similar plea.

Mr. B.H. Bonniface, prosecuting, said Hill was barman at the West Cliff Shades public house, On four successive days, July 12th to 15th, P.C. Walsh kept observation in the public bar, and on the 15th Inspector Rowe entered the premises with a warrant. P.C. Walsh would describe to them what he saw going on openly in the bar. Hill was taking bets systematically, and placed them in a drawer by his beer engine. The licensee was not there, and Hill was in sole charge of the public bar. Wood took betting slips away with him when he visited the public house each day. When Inspector Rowe searched the defendant he had two betting slips relating to betting that day, together with money, in his pocket. The maximum penalty was a fine not exceeding £100.

P.C. Walsh said he kept observation in the public bar at the West Cliff Shades public house from 12.15 p.m. until 2.15 p.m. on July 12th. Hill was behind the bar, and there were about fifteen men present. One man went up to Hill and handed a piece of paper over the counter to Hill, who placed it in a drawer under the counter. Wood came to the premises accompanied by another man. Hill handed Wood a small piece of paper, which was given to the other man, who unfolded it and produced some money. Witness said on July 13th he kept observation from 11.40 a.m. until 2.10 p.m. He saw people write slips and hand the money to Hill. Wood entered the premises about one o'clock accompanied by the same man. Hill took a small blue paper bag from the drawer and handed it to Wood, who placed it in his pocket. On the following day he saw a man go over to Wood and place a small piece of paper and a coin in his hand. Ten minutes later another man did the same thing. On the 14th pieces of paper and money were passed over to Hill, and Wood visited the premises. He spoke to Hill, who handed him a blue paper slip from the drawer, which he (Wood) put into his pocket.

Inspector Rowe said at 1.25 p.m. on July 15th he entered the premises under a warrant. Hill was behind the bar and Wood was standing on the customers' side of the counter. He told all the people in the bar why he was there. And searched Wood, finding a blue bag containing two betting slips on which were written four horses running that day at Sandown Park. He also had in his possession 18/5½, ten other slips, a number of football naps, and an explanatory circular.

Mr. Bunce said Wood was not a bookie, and was not engaged in the betting business. He was a chauffeur, and went to the est Cliff Shades on a number of occasions because he was asked by friends to put “something on” for them, and having received the slips, the contents of which he did not know, he handed them over to another party who, in turn, passed them on to a bookmaker. Wood took the bets as a favour to his friends, and did not realise he was breaking the law in any way, which was quite a reasonable surmise if it was done in clubs in certain conditions. Apparently if it was done in a public house it was different.

The Clerk: I do not quite follow. I do not know under what enacture that can be done in a club.

Mr. Bunce: I think it can be arranged. (Laughter)

Continuing, Mr. Bunce said Wood was a man of good character. He was an Old Contemptible, being in the first line trenches from September 6th, 1914, to the finish. He was mentioned three times in dispatches, and was awarded the Military Medal for gallant conduct and bravery in the field, the meritorious service medal, and the Mons Star.

Hill told the Court that he was very sorry for what had occurred, and said it would never happen again.

The Chairman (Dr. W.W. Nuttall) said the defendants had both pleaded Guilty, and would each be fined £1. Wood would have to pay £2 4s. 9d. costs, and Hill £2.

 

Folkestone Express 7 October 1939.

Lighting Regulations.

Judging by the number of cases at the Folkestone Police Court, the residents and traders of the town are exercising considerably more care in the obscuring of the lights from their premises. On the two days when such cases are usually heard at the Court there have been few summonses compared with previous weeks. Two defendants appeared before the Folkestone magistrates on Friday summoned for breaches of the lighting order.

Mrs. Bessie Barker, West Cliff Shades, Folkestone, was the first defendant.

P.C. Barrett said at 11.15 p.m. on the 24th September he noticed a bedroom window on the first floor of the West Cliff Shades was illuminated. The covering on the window was a blue blind, which was very thin, and he could see the lamp through the blind. The blind was too narrow, and there was an opening in it at the top, permitting bars of light to be shown. He interviewed defendant, and she said she had only just gone into the room.

Defendant said she was very sorry.

The Chairman (the Mayor, Alderman G.A. Gurr) said the defendant would have to be more careful. She would have to pay a fine of 10/-.

 

Folkestone Herald 6 July 1940.

Local News.

A considerable amount of licensing business was transacted at the Folkestone Police Court on Wednesday.

Mr. O. Isard-Davies asked for the transfer of the licence of the West Cliff Shades, Christ Church Road, from the executors of the late Mrs. D.A. Barker to a son of the deceased licensee, Mr. H.W. Barker.

The Magistrates consented.

Note: Executors do not appear in More Bastions.

 

Folkestone Herald 13 February 1943.

Annual Licensing Sessions.

The conduct of licensed premises and the public using them was praised by the Chief Constable (Mr. R.C.M. Jenkins) at Folkestone’s annual Licensing Sessions on Wednesday.

Mr. Barker, of the West Cliff Shades, applied for a music licence in respect of a wireless installation, which he said would be used for relaying news broadcasts at his house.

After the licence had been granted, the Chief Constable mentioned that the question arose as to whether a licence was required for a wireless set which, although not on the licensed part of the premises, was in the house and was operated loud enough for customers to hear.

Strictly speaking he thought a licence was required in such cases. He mentioned it to give other licensees an opportunity to make a similar application under such circumstances.

 

Folkestone Herald 6 May 1944.

Local News.

Summonses for selling 5.000 cigarettes without a licence were heard at Folkestone Police Court on Tuesday against George Charles Clarke, of Terminus Street, Brighton, and Edgar George Butler, of Christ Church Road, Folkestone. Each defendant was fined £1 with a guinea costs.

Mr. G.P. Medlicott represented Clarke and Mr. B.H. Bonniface appeared for Butler. Defendants pleaded Guilty.

Mr. Robert Stevens, prosecuting for the Customs and Excise, stated that defendants were liable to a penalty not exceeding £100. On February 20th, continued Mr. Stevens, D. Const. Welch saw Butler, a taxi driver, at the West Cliff Shades public house and as a result of what he said the police officer saw Clarke, a N.A.A.F.I manager. Butler had stated that he had obtained the cigarettes from Clarke and that they had been sold to Mr Drury, steward of the Folkestone Club. A tobacco licence, said Mr. Stevens, cost only 5/3, but, as the Magistrates would appreciate in this case, it was a wholesale fraud on the troops. A man like Clarke, in charge of a N.A.A.F.I., should be above anything of this kind. Although the amount of the licence was not large, unless a very firm and strong line were taken by inflicting a substantial penalty other people would be encouraged to defraud the troops and the public in this way.

Mr. Medlicott said he could not agree with the comments of the prosecuting solicitor; his remarks were far more germaine to another charge which had been disposed of, both attendants being found Not Guilty. There were ample cigarettes at this N.A.A.F.l. for the troops, therefore it could not be suggested that the troops had been robbed of them. Clarke had no idea whatever that he was committing any offence against the revenue by selling these cigarettes. He pleaded Guilty to a technical offence. Defendant was now out of work and he asked the Magistrates to deal as leniently as possible with him.

Mr Bonmface said it was a surprise to him to hear that it was an offence to sell a packet of cigarettes off premises which were licensed for their sale. Any one of them might commit a similar offence unknowingly. One might buy a packet of cigarettes and on coming out sell them to a friend who had not any; that would be committing an offence, apparently. The Magistrates knew in this case the sales had been done quite openly. He knew that they ought to know the law; they should all know the law, but he submitted that it was one of those instances in law of which many of them knew nothing.

The Magistrates imposed fines as stated, Clarke being allowed a month in which to pay.

Alderman J.W. Stainer presided, with Mr. P.V. Gurr and Mr. C.A. Wilde.

 

Folkestone Herald 13 October 1945.

Local News.

The following licence was transferred at a sitting of the Folkestone Magistrates on Wednesday last week: West Cliff Shades, from Mr. Herbert Walter Barker to Mr. Leonard Barker.

 

Folkestone Gazette 25 January 1950.

Local News.

Leonard Barker, licensee of the West Cliff Shades Hotel, Folkestone, pleaded Not Guilty to an offence on December 14th, 1949, when it was alleged that he sold gin which had 14 parts of 100 of added water. Barker applied that Arthur William Pilcher, a barman, of 2, Ingles Mews, Folkestone, should be brought before the court because he alleged that it was the barman who was responsible for the contravention of the Food and Drugs Act.

Miss Dorothy Dix (instructed by Messrs. Haines and Bonniface), appearing tor Barker, pleaded Not Guilty. Pilcher pleaded Not Guilty to knowingly adding water.

Mr. Salt, prosecuting, said the circumstances were very similar to the previous case. Taking the minimum statutory standard for gin there was, in the opinion of the Public Analyst, 14 parts in 100 of added water in the gin sampled. The same sampling officers a little later in the morning went to the West Cliff Shades, where they ordered two double gins. Having been served with two doubles they ordered a third. Alter they had disclosed their identity they sampled the gin they had purchased. The magistrates would appreciate that in a case where the barman had been joined it was necessary for the defence to prove that the employee exercised due vigilance.

David Prebble, Sampling Officer, said he ordered the gins from the barman, who gave his name as T.R. Hinchcliffe, of Segrave Road, Folkestone. The barman brought the glasses to the bar and he told Hinchcliffe who he was. Hinchcliiffe straightaway said he must fetch Mr. Barker. Witness said he told Barker that he had taken a sample of the gin and asked both men whether he could see the bottle from which the gin had been taken. They brought a bottle labelled “Gordon’s London Gin, 70 degrees proof”; it was approximately five-eighths full.

Barker, giving evidence, said he had been the licensee of the hotel for the past four years and previously had been a licensee in Folkestone at the Prince Albert and the Railway Bell for about 20 years in all. He had never been convicted of any offence. Prior to becoming a licensee he was a police officer at the Houses of Parliament. Continuing, he said on December 8th, 1949, he received a delivery of certain spirits and other commodities from his brewer, Messrs Style and Winch. The defendant produced invoices and an excise certificate relating to the delivery. The invoice included a case of 12 bottles of Gordon's gin and showed that the gin was 30 degrees under proof. The bottles were placed in the cellar, the key of which he held. On December 12th he had occasion to fetch some bottles from the cellar, including one bottle of gin which he placed in the saloon bar for sale. Normally a bottle of Gordon’s gin would last a week or ten days at that time of the year. Pilcher was on duty on December 12th and 13th as regular barman but Hinchcliffe was employed as a relief barman. Pilcher had been regular barman at the hotel for over 21 years. Barker said when he took over the hotel Pilcher was recommended to him by the previous licensee, who was his (Barker’s) nephew. Until the present case he had had no occasion to complain of the way Pilcher had done his work and conducted the bar. Defendant said he had given instructions to the relief barman on how the bar was to be conducted and told him never to put anything back into bottles. When he received the summons on January 6th he made enquiries amongst his employees to find out how the gin had become diluted. On January 9th Pilcher came to him and made a statement in which he was alleged to have said that two men came into the bar on December 12th and 13th and had two half pints of beer and then called for two double gins. He then left the bar and when he returned the men said they did not like the gin he had served and asked whether he would change it for two double Booth's. He did so and returned what they had left to the Gordon's bottle. On January 13th Pilcher made a similar statement in writing in which he was alleged to have added “I can only think while I was out of the bar the two men drank the gin and filled the two glasses with water. Gordon’s gin looks similar to plain water when in a glass”.

Barker said before Pilcher signed the statement he was warned by a solicitor in whose office the statement was made.

Replying to Mr. Salt, defendant said sampling officers had never before visited the West Cliff Shades during the four years he had been there. He did not bother to keep the bottle because he thought the gin was all right. Pilcher was on duty when the sample was taken.

Arthur William Pilcher, giving evidence, said he had been barman at the West Cliff Shades for the past 22 years. He was off duty on December 14th. On December 12th or 13th two men came into the bar and he gave them two large gins from the Gordon’s bottle. Then he had occasion to go into the yard for a few moments; there was nobody else in the bar. When he returned one of the men asked if they could have Booth's gin as they did not like Gordon’s. He took the two gins back and served them with Booth’s. He put the contents of the two glasses back into the Gordon’s bottle.

Mr. Salt: Why are you sure it was water you poured back?

Pilcher: I say that because there was water found in it. There was no other way water could have got into the gin.

They may have put some water into their gin? - They may have done. I was outside.

Thomas Rufus Hinchcliffe, of 22, Segrave Road, Folkestone, said he was relief barman and was on duty on December 14th. There was only one bottle of Gordon’s gin in the bar.

Miss Dix: Did you add any water to that gin during the morning? - No.

Miss Dix said Barker had acted with the utmost honest y towards his suppliers. If Pilcher had not told him what he did Barker might have had no reason to suspect that the gin had not been sold in the condition he had received it. If he could have satisfied the court that he had sold it in the condition received that would have been his defence. He had thrown on one side, however, the defence he could have put forward if he had chosen to suppress the information which Pilcher gave to him.

Barker, therefore, had to show the Magistrates that the contravention of the Act was due to a default by Pilcher and that he (Barker) used due diligence and complied with all the conditions. There was only one possible explanation of the way the gin could have been watered and that was the explanation given by Pilcher, who should have known better than to pour it back into the bottle. Referring to the alleged action by the two men, she said it seemed to be a clever way of getting a second gin free. “Mr. Pilcher has taken the responsibility of having been careless”, she continued, “and doing what no barman should do – (a) pouring back in the bottle, and (b) leaving the bar unattended in such circumstances. We say that is the act which caused the contravention of the provisions of the Act”.

The Magistrates retired to consider their decision and when they returned the Chairman (Eng. Rear Admiral L.J. Stephens) said they had decided to dismiss the case against Barker, but they found Pilcher guilty and he would be fined £5 with 25/- costs.

Pilcher was allowed 14 days in which to pay the fine.

 

Folkestone Herald 28 January 1950.

Local News.

A visit by Corporation Sampling Officers to a Folkestone bar, where it was alleged they were sold spirits which had been watered, was described at Folkestone Magistrates' Court on Tuesday.

A summons against Leonard Barker, licensee of the West Cliff Shades Hotel, Folkestone, alleging that he sold watered gin on December 14th was dismissed. Arthur William Pilcher, barman at the West Cliff Shades, was brought before the Court on the application of Barker, it being alleged that he was responsible for the offence under the Food and Drugs Act. He was fined £5 with 25/- costs.

Barker, represented by Miss Dorothy Dix (instructed by Messrs. Haines and Bonniface), and Pilcher pleaded Not Guilty.

It was alleged by the prosecution that the gin purchased in the saloon bar of the West Cliff Shades had 14 parts of added water in 100. Mr. K. Salt, prosecuting, said the Food and Drugs Act provided a standard of the commodity which was required when the purchaser demanded it. There was an express provision in the Act to the effect that no offence was committed if there were at least 65 parts of Proof Spirit in 100. In this case the analyst had come to the conclusion that there were 14 parts in 100 of added water in the gin sampled. Mr. Salt said it was not for the prosecution to say how the added water came in; it was the feeling of the prosecution that the whole circumstances would speak for themselves. “It is hoped that you will bear in mind that this was undoubtedly a genuine purchase, one might say by members of the public, and that members of the public were undoubtedly defrauded”.

Two of the Borough Sampling Officers, who were new to the town and were not known, said Mr. Salt, went to the West Cliff Shades, where they ordered two double gins. Having been served with two doubles they ordered a third. After they had disclosed their identity they sampled the gin they had purchased. The Magistrates would appreciate that in a case where the barman had been joined it was necessary for the defence to prove that the employee exercised due vigilance.

David Prebble, Sampling Officer, said he ordered the gins from the barman, who gave his name as T.K. Hinchcliffe, of Segrave Road, Folkestone. The barman brought the glasses to the bar and he told Hinchcliffe who he was. Hinchcliffe straightaway said he must fetch Mr. Barker. Witness said he told Barker that he had taken a sample of the gin and asked both men whether he could see the bottle from which the gin had been taken. They brought a bottle labelled “Gordon's London Gin, 70 degrees proof”; it was approximately five-eighths full.

Barker, giving evidence, said he had been the licensee of the hotel for the past four years and previously had been a licensee in Folkestone at the Prince Albert and the Railway Bell for about 20 years in all. He had never been convicted of any offence. Prior to becoming a licensee he was a police officer at the Houses of Parliament. Continuing, he said on December 8th, 1949, he received a delivery of certain spirits and other commodities from his brewer, Messrs. Style and Winch. The defendant produced invoices and an excise certificate relating to the delivery. The invoice included a case of 12 bottles of Gordon's gin and showed that the gin was 30 degrees under proof. The bottles were placed in the cellar, the key of which he held. On December 12th he had occasion to fetch some bottles from the cellar, including one bottle of gin which he placed in the saloon bar for sale. Normally a bottle of Gordon's gin would last a week or ten days at that time of the year. Pilcher was on duty on December 12th and 13th as regular barman, but Hinchcliffe was employed as a relief barman. Pilcher had been regular barman at the hotel for over 21 years. Barker said when he took over the hotel Pilcher was recommended to him by the previous licensee, who was his (Barker's) nephew. Until the present case he had had no occasion to complain of the way Pilcher had done his work and conducted the bar. Defendant said he had given instructions to the relief barman on how the bar was to be conducted and told him never to put anything back into bottles. When he received the summons on January 6th he made enquiries among his employees to find out how the gin had become diluted. On January 9th Pilcher came to him and made a statement in which he was alleged to have said that two men came into the bar on December 12th or 13th and had two half pints of beer and then called for two double gins. He then left the bar and when he returned the men said they did not like the gin he had served and asked whether he could change it for two double Booth's. He did so and returned what they had left to the Gordon's bottle. On January 13th Pilcher made a similar statement in writing in which he was alleged to have added “I can only think while I was out of the bar the two men drank the gin and filled the two glasses with water. Gordon's gin looks similar to plain water when in a glass”. Barker said before Pilcher signed the statement he was warned by a solicitor in whose office the statement was made.

Replying to Mr. Salt, defendant said Sampling Officers had never before visited the West Cliff Shades during the four years he had been there. He did not bother to keep the bottle because he thought the gin was all right. Pilcher was off duty when the sample was taken.

Arthur William Pilcher, giving evidence, said he had been barman at the West Cliff Shades for the past 22 years. He was off duty on December 14th. On December 12th or 13th two men came into the bar and he gave them two large gins from the Gordon's bottle. Then he had occasion to go into the yard for a few moments; there was nobody else in the bar. When he returned one of the men asked if they could have Booth's gin as they did not like Gordon's. He took the two gins back and served them with Booth's. He put the contents of the two glasses back into the Gordon's bottle.

Mr. Salt: Why are you so sure it was water you poured back?

Pilcher: I say that because there was water found in it. There was no other way water could have got into the gin.

They may have put water into their gin? – They may have done. I was outside.

Thomas Rufus Hinchcliffe, of 22, Segrave Road, Folkestone, said he was relief barman and was on duty on December 14th. There was only one bottle of Gordon's gin in the bar.

Miss Dix: Did you add any water to that gin during the morning? – No.

Miss Dix said Barker had acted with the utmost honesty towards his suppliers. If Pilcher had not told him what he did Barker might have had no reason to suspect that the gin had not been sold in the condition he had received it. If he could have satisfied the Court that he sold it in the condition received that would have been his defence. He had thrown on one side, however, the defence he could have put forward if he had chosen to suppress the information which Pilcher gave to him. There was only one possible explanation of the way the gin could have been watered and that was the explanation given by Pilcher, who should have known better than to pour it back into the bottle. Referring to the alleged action by the two men, she said it seemed to be a clever way of getting a second gin free. “Mr. Pilcher has taken the responsibility of having been careless”, she continued, “and doing what no barman should do – (a) pouring back in the bottle, and (b) leaving the bar unattended in such circumstances. We say that is the act which caused the contravention of the Act”.

The Magistrates retired to consider their decision and when they returned the Chairman (Eng. Rear-Admiral L.J. Stephens) said they had decided to dismiss the case against Barker, but they found Pilcher Guilty and he would be fined £5 with 25/- costs.

Pilcher was allowed 14 days in which to pay the fine.

 

Folkestone Herald 15 November 1952.

Local News.

Folkestone Magistrates on Wednesday approved the transfer of licence as follows: West Cliff Shades from Mr. L. Barker to Mr. A.S.W. Chilton.

 

Folkestone Herald 13 February 1954.

Annual Licensing Sessions.

A music licence for the use of a piano was granted to the licensee of the West Cliff Shades.

 

Folkestone Herald 16 March 1957.

Adjourned Licensing Sessions.

The licence of the West Cliff Shades, Folkestone, was transferred at the Folkestone adjourned Annual Licensing Sessions on Wednesday, from Mrs. Marie Elizabeth Chilton to Mr. Robert Anderson Kitson, former licensee of the Red Lion, Appledore.

 

Folkestone Gazette 24 May 1961.

Local News.

Two more piles of pennies were knocked over at Folkestone during the weekend. One at the London and Paris Hotel raised £11 2/-, and the other, at the West Cliff Shades, £18 10/6. The money goes to the Folkestone Branch of the British Empire Cancer Campaign.

 

Folkestone Gazette 17 May 1967.

Local News.

Mr. Leonard Barker, of 14, Segrave Road, Folkestone, retired licensed victualler, who died in March, left £12,491 gross, £12,416 net. Duty paid was £745. Probate has been granted to his niece, Miss Winifred M. Barker, of 10 Hurst Avenue, Horsham, and nephew Walter E.J. Barker, of 148, Comptons Lane, Horsham. He left £500 and certain effects to Mrs. Dorothy M. de Vere, if still in his employ at his death and not under notice; £50 to Dr. Fritz Ewer, of Greenoaks, Military Road, Sandgate, “for his kindness and attention to my late wife during her long and painful illness”; and £25 to the Rev. Gethin-Jones, late of The Vicarage, Sandgate.

 

Folkestone Herald 27 January 1968.

Local News.

The licensee of a Folkestone public house, making a search after a water-filled charity collecting box had been taken from his bar, followed a trail of water splashes along Sandgate Road, up Castle Hill Avenue, and into the Majestic Hotel site car park.

There, Mr. Robert Kitson, licensee of West Cliff Shades public house, told Folkestone Magistrates on Tuesday, he saw Frank Morrison squatting by a tree with the water-filled jar in his hands. He appeared to be about to smash it.

Morrison, a private with the 1st Parachute Regiment, stationed at Aldershot, pleaded not guilty to stealing the jar, belonging to the National Kidney Research Fund, and valued with contents at £1.

After hearing the evidence the magistrates dismissed the case.

Mr. Kitson said that when Morrison saw him he dropped the jar in the car park and ran off. He was later stopped outside the Princes Hotel.

P.C. Ivor Chapman said he took Morrison to Folkestone police station, where, after questioning, he said “Yes, I took it, but only in fun. We played rugby with it. We only did it to see if we could get away with it.”

In court Morrison, who said that at the time he had been attending a course at the School of Infantry, Hythe, said he took the jar but did not intend to steal it. “We were going to have a bit of fun with it,” he said. “What we were trying to do was incite the people in the public house to a bit of fun and games, a bit of tomfoolery”. His recollection of the evening was very hazy because he had been drinking. “If I had got away with it, which was never my intention, I would have taken it back”, he added.

Capt. Frances Carter, of the Hythe School of Infantry, said Morrison’s conduct sheet showed he was of exemplary character. He had been a normal, hard-working student while on the course, and the offence with which he was charged seemed to be out of character.

 

Folkestone Herald 13 February 1971.

Annual Licensing Sessions.

Police are keeping an extra careful eye on some pubs in Folkestone - particularly those popular among young people. This was revealed by Chief Superintendent W. Pullinger in his report to the annual meeting of the town’s Licensing Justices, on Wednesday.

He said that during 1970 licensed premises had been generally well-conducted, But he went on “As in most towns, certain premises require additional police supervision to ensure that the liquor licensing laws are not abused. This is sometimes due to slackness on the part of the licensee, or to popular premises attracting large numbers of young people”.

Mr. P.J. Baden-Fuller, the Chairman of the Justices, appreciated the difficulties licensees faced with young people. He said the Justices hoped that those licensees concerned would try to enforce the liquor laws, but added “It is so difficult to tell the ages of young people sometimes”.

Later, The Herald spoke to landlords of Folkestone pubs that are popular with youngsters – only to find they did not think they had a problem. Several of them agreed with Mr. Baden-Fuller that it was difficult to tell the ages of some young customers. The answer to a difficult situation was, they agreed, firmness and rigidly following the maxim “If in doubt, don’t serve”.

At the Shakespeare, in Guildhall Street, Mr. Ron Balsom, the landlord, said “I have spent many years in London as a licensee, and the young people here are a lot different. I find them very reasonable and very well behaved. They certainly do not cause me any headaches”.

Mr. Alan White, landlord of the Prince Albert in Rendezvous Street, said “There is an occasional problem caused by young soldiers from Shorncliffe wanting a drink. You know who they are and you just have to handle the situation firmly. Trouble is caused when youngsters unused to alcohol have a few drinks and get a bit het up. A landlord has a duty to regular customers, and must make sure that kind of situation does not arise”.

At the West Cliff Shades, Christ Church Road, a spokesman said there were no problems worth mentioning, though there had been occasional instances of vandalism.

At the British Lion, in The Bayle, Mr. Gerry Hourahane said “It is difficult to judge ages, particularly those of foreigners. But if you ask them what year they were born they usually answer correctly without thinking”.

Another aspect of Chief Superintendent Pullinger's report to the Justices was that hotels and restaurants are catering more for Continental visitors. The number of restricted licences granted to hotels, restaurants and other premises had increased, he reported. “This is no doubt due to more people requiring intoxicants for consumption with their meals, particularly in Folkestone, where the number of Continental visitors, especially day visitors from France and Belgium, continues to increase.

The report showed that 19 cases of drunkenness were dealt with by the police in 1970, compared with 16 in 1969, an increase “which does not reflect on licensed premises”. Fourteen cases of motorists unfit to drive through drink were also dealt with by the police – two fewer than in 1969. There are now 177 licensed premises in Folkestone. The police had no objections to any licences being renewed.

 

Folkestone Gazette 16 February 1972.

Local News.

A man charged with murder appeared in court at Folkestone on Monday with his right leg in plaster and a black eye.

Cyril Alfred Kent, aged 34, accused of murdering Stephen Graham Laye, 18-year-old student, of Sandgate Road, Folkestone, on Friday night was remanded in custody until Tuesday. After a two-minute appearance before magistrates, Kent left the court.

Graham Laye died in the Royal Victoria Hospital, Folkestone, on Friday evening. He had been found earlier during a black-out lying at the junction of Sandgate Road with Clifton Gardens. His parents, Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Laye, have three other sons and a daughter, all grown up.

 

Folkestone Gazette 21 June 1972.

Local News.

A street brawl during a power blackout last February led to a murder trial at Lewes Crown Court on Monday.

Cyril Alfred Kent, 34, of 16 Westbourne Gardens, Folkestone, has pleaded not guilty to murdering Stephen Graham Laye, 19-year-old student, of Sandgate Road, Folkestone.

Mr. Petre Crowder, Q.C., M.P., prosecuting, said the killing took place on February 11, about 10 p.m., when there was a power blackout in the Folkestone area. A group of two or three youths were walking on the pavement in the blackout when Kent bumped into them. This led to an altercation between Kent, Laye and another youth called David Webb. A fight took place and Laye received a fatal stab wound from a commando knife in the groin. Webb received a cut on the arm.

The jury heard on Monday that Kent received a fractured ankle and other injuries.

The trial continues and is expected to last until early next week.

 

Folkestone Herald 24 June 1972.

Local News.

Questions were asked about the effects of alcohol combined with the drug Mandrax when a Folkestone man faced a murder charge at Lewes Crown Court this week. Cyril Alfred Kent, aged 34, of Westbourne Gardens, Folkestone, has pleaded Not Guilty to the murder of Stephen Graham Laye, 19-year-old student, of Sandgate Road, Folkestone.

Mr. Petre Crowder, Q.C., prosecuting, said the killing took place on February 11 this year at about 10 p.m., when there was a power blackout in the Folkestone area. In a fight Laye received a fatal stab wound from a Commando knife in the groin. Another youth, David Webb, received a cut on the arm. From what Kent said afterwards he was pleading self defence.

Mr. John Marriage, for Kent, made a formal admission that David Michael Webb and the youth, Laye, were involved in a fight with Kent, as a result of which Laye died. It was also admitted that, at the time, Kent had a knife with him. Kent suffered a fractured ankle and other injuries.

Miss Lucy Helen Boucher, 15-year-old student, of Milldown Farm, Acrise, said that after going to a party at Wilberforce Road, Sandgate, she and a friend decided to go into Folkestone. At the Westcliff Shades they linked up with four youths and decided to go back to the party.

They were walking in three groups of two and she was in front with David Marsh. Webb and Laye were last. A man passed them, and then there was a scuffle, she said. “I heard some shouting and I heard David Webb swearing. I looked round and saw a man with his fists up. Then a bus came up and we ran on and caught the bus". She denied that Webb and Laye were “spoiling for a fight” that night.

Pathologist Dr. James Cameron said the fatal injury on Laye penetrated the groin in an area where there were no bones. It would not have required great force to inflict. He was questioned by Mr. John Marriage, Q.C., defending, about the combined effects of Mandrax and alcohol. Dr. Cameron said Mandrax should never be taken in conjunction with alcohol, but he knew youngsters took it in that way for kicks. “The majority of people do react violently under the influence of Mandrax and alcohol”, he said. “They would become aggressive and their character somewhat changes. When in the sobering stage many would be unable to realise the degree of aggressiveness they had shown”.

Mr. Marriage said it was known alcohol and Mandrax were found in the dead man’s body. body.

Andrew David Marshall, 18-year-old trainee stock clerk, was walking with Lucy Boucher. He said he had taken two Mandrax tablets and some drink at the Odeon Bar and the Westcliff Shades. He was “not very clear” about the events of the night. Answering Mr. Marriage he said Laye had sold him the Mandrax for 15p each after Laye and Webb had gone to the C.I.U. club. He drank a pint of bitter to wash the tablets down.

Mr. Marriage said Kent claimed he was attacked by three men, but Marshall denied he was the third person.

Stephen Delivitt, 18-year-old pleater, of Thanet Gardens, Folkestone, said he took half a capsule of Mandrax and had some drink. He was feeling “slightly drunk”. He had taken Mandrax once or twice before. He was walking along with a girl called Deborah when the man passed them. Glancing over his shoulder he saw the man hit David Webb, and Webb started fighting. “They remained on their feet for some time, and after that were rolling on the ground”, said Delivitt. “Later Webb said to Laye “Come on, help me”. Laye then went back to get the man off Webb. I think Laye kicked him two or three times. Deborah urged me to walk on and ignore the fight. Then Webb and Laye came running up. Webb said he had left his coat and hat on the ground, and went back with Laye”. A bus came along shortly after and they got on it. He, too, denied he was the third man involved with Kent. He also denied saying to someone at the party later that night “Graham (Laye) has been stabbed”.

David Michael Webb, aged 18, of The Star Inn, Hythe, apprentice compositor, said he had something to drink that night and went with Laye to the C.I.U. club. He had half a pint there. He bought three Mandrax capsules, and spent some time at the C.I.U. before going back to the Odeon Bar. This closed at 9 p.m. because of the power cut, and they went to the West Cliff Shades. “The drink and the Mandrax had affected me and it has created some gaps in my memory”, said Webb. “A man came straight through the middle of one couple in front, and made contact with me. I remarked about it being stupid and he had plenty of room. Thereupon he struck me with his forearm on the back”. A fight started, but Webb was wearing a large coat and could not move well. “I was not really in a condition for a brawl,” he went on. “I was in control of my senses, but the Mandrax had affected me physically." Eventually because of their condition they walked off. H then realised he had left his coat behind. He went back and, as he stooped to pick up the coat, saw a man coming at him. “I did not know I had been cut until a few minutes afterwards”, said Webb. “The man came at Graham and thrust at him. He got Graham in the stomach or low on the body. The man was stooped and struck Graham several times”. Webb said the man then chased him across the road. He dodged round a car and finally escaped. He denied a suggestion by Mr. Marriage that both his and Laye’s “aggressive instincts” had been affected by the mixture of alcohol and Mandrax and that this led to the attack on Mr. Kent. Webb dismissed this as “ridiculous”.

On Wednesday, Kent went into the witness box to describe the events of that night. He said he had a Commando-type knife from his service days, and sometimes used it in connection with skin-diving. He had the habit of carrying the knife in his boot following an incident at a local dance in which a young man made a nuisance of himself over a girl whom Kent had taken there. On the night of the stabbing, he had a sauna bath, went home and then went out, visiting the East Kent Arms, the British Lion, the Raglan, Nailbox and the Providence. He thought he had about five or six drinks. After visiting the Providence he started to walk to the town centre. Visibility was about 10 or 35 yards. “I was walking with my hands in my pockets and head slightly stooped”, Kent told the court. “I walked into some people who were strung out across the road. I was spun round”. He apologised, but then realised the jostling had been deliberate, as six people closed round him. One, Webb, was more aggressive than the others. Bad language was used, and he knew he was “definitely in trouble”. Attacked from behind, he was pulled backwards on to the ground. He pulled one of the assailants down on top of him. “While I was on the ground I was severely kicked on a number of occasions”, said Kent. From the position of the kicks he knew he was being assaulted by at least three people. He received a direct kick in the right eye, which caused loss of vision, and a heavy blow on his ankle. As he got up and collected his senses, he saw three people moving towards him menacingly. "There was no doubt whatever that they were three of the original attackers”. He said his movements were restricted by the effects of the attack he had suffered earlier. He told them three or four times to “S—off”. They did not do so and he pulled the knife from his boot with his right hand and repeated his words. “I was positive they had seen the knife”, said Kent. “The three were shoulder to shoulder, and then one went to my left. I hit him in the solar plexus with my elbow. “I waved the knife. I knew I had no other choice but to cause one or more of them a slight cut. One of them called out several times “He has a knife”. Webb became very aggressive and abusive, and he used threats. He was the only one of the three who did not make any movement to withdraw. I pushed Webb”. He waved the knife two or three times, and Webb went off. He pursued Webb, who had a slanging match over the top of a parked car. Webb called him a “cowardly b----“ who had to resort to a knife. Eventually he told Webb he did not want to fight and walked off along The Leas, where he buried the knife. He said he certainly had no intention to cause any serious wound, and was not aware he had done so until he felt the knife was sticky. On looking he saw blood, and it was then he decided to get rid of the knife. “I did not realise that I had done more damage than I had intended to,” said Kent. “I thought there was bound to be some sort of outcry, and I thought it unwise to keep the knife in my possession”.

On Thursday Kent was cross-examined for several hours by Mr. Crowder. He agreed he might have been intoxicated to a certain extent, as it was the first time he had been drinking since the New Year. He denied he was not in a very good mood that night because the woman with whom he had been associating had told him the association must cease. Of the attack he said he used the knife with the intention of cutting, not stabbing. “I did not stab Laye in the stomach”, Kent said. “I wanted to cut both these boys on the hands or arms”.

The judge, Mr. Justice Chapman, was expected to commence his summing up yesterday, and the jury should retire on Monday.

 

Folkestone Gazette 26 July 1972.

Local News.

A Folkestone man was cleared of murder at Lewes Crown Court on Monday after a six-days second trial. An earlier jury failed to agree on a verdict. The jury on Monday were out for nearly four hours before finding him Guilty of manslaughter. Cyril Alfred Kent, 34, of Westbourne Gardens, was found Not Guilty of the murder of Stephen Graham Laye, 19-year-old student, of Sandgate Road, on February 11. The jury found him Guilty of manslaughter and he was jailed for three years.

The prosecution had alleged that the killing occurred during a power blackout on February 11, in Sandgate Road. Kent, walking on his own, apparently bumped into a group of people on their way to a party. The group included Laye, and at least two of the group had taken a mixture of Mandrax and alcohol. During a fight in the darkened street, Kent produced a Commando knife. He claimed he acted in self-defence because he was attacked by two, if not three, of the group. He stabbed Laye in the groin, severing an artery and causing his death.

After the verdict, Detective Inspector Thomas Lee, who was in charge of the case, said Kent was in breach of a three-month suspended order for driving while banned, made at Folkestone in October, 1970. The judge said he would order the suspended sentence to run concurrently with the three-year term.

Mr. John Marriage, Q.C., defending, asked the judge to take the view that the “trigger mechanism” came from the other side. One could not say that the youth Laye was responsible for his own death, but it could be said that his actions and those of his companions created the series of events leading to his death. He asked the judge to accept that it was a “terribly unlucky blow”, in that it struck an artery.

Mr. Justice Lawson: It is rather like hitting a man with a very thin skull, who falls down and strikes his head on the pavement, This is an unlucky event”.

Mr. Marriage hoped the judge would look upon it as a case of a man who, upon being set upon, defended himself. He was a man of intellect and basically good character who perhaps drank a little too much. Probably a man who, when he became lonely and depressed and perhaps even embittered, behaved in a rather foolish way. His wife had divorced him many years ago and he helped maintain their two sons. He now had no intention ever of returning to the Folkestone area. Also he had had to stand the strain of two trials.

The judge said: I take the view that the death of which the Court has heard was the result of your being a man with great tendencies to depression, finding yourself in a situation of crisis in which you over-reacted very gravely and very seriously. I also think you had had rather more to drink than you should have done and the great mistake you made was to decide on this particular evening, when you had domestic reasons for being upset and depressed, to go out with this murderous weapon.

 

Folkestone Herald 1 July 1972.

Local News.

A jury, trying a power blackout killing last February, failed to reach a verdict after a seven-day trial at Lewes Crown Court. They retired for over 5½ hours on Tuesday, before being discharged by Mr. Justice Chapman from giving a verdict. The judge said he hoped the retrial could be held at Lewes within the next three weeks and certainly before the summer recess.

Cyril Alfred Kent, aged 34, of 16 Westbourne Gardens, Folkestone, had pleaded not guilty to the murder of Stephen Graham Laye, 18-year-old student, of Sandgate Road, Folkestone. Laye died late on the evening of Februray 11, following an incident in Sandgate Road during a power blackout. He received a fatal stab wound in the groin from a Commando knife.

Mr. John Marriage, Q.C., for Kent, made a formal admission that Laye was involved in a fight with Kent, as a result of which Laye died. It was also admitted that at the time Kent had a knife with him. Kent suffered a fractured ankle and other injuries in the incident.

Apart from Laye, a youth called David Michael Webb was also involved in the incident. He received a cut arm.

Evidence was given that the dead youth had traces of Mandrax and alcohol in his body, and Webb admitted that he had taken a similar mixture that night.

Pathologist Dr. James Cameron told the jury that the majority of people reacted violently under the influence of the mixture.

Kent admitted using the knife in the incident, but claimed he acted in self defence. He alleged that in the initial blackout clash he was attacked by three people, including Laye and Webb, sustaining a broken ankle and bruises. Then, he claimed, the assailants returned and threatened him a second time. It was then that he took out the knife to protect himself.

He was remanded in custody pending a retrial.

 

Folkestone Gazette 28 March 1973.

Local News.

Cyril Alfred Kent, 35, was the victim of an unprovoked assault but then he turned on one of his attackers and knifed him, an Appeal Court judge said on Friday.

Kent, unemployed, of Westbourne Gardens, Folkestone, was convicted at Lewes Crown Court last July 24 of manslaughter and was jailed for three years. He applied to the Court of Appeal for leave to appeal against his conviction and sentence but was refused.

Lord Justice James, sitting with Mr. Justice Nield, said Kent was attacked, his ankle was fractured and his eye blackened. His attackers left him lying on the ground and then two returned. Kent knifed Graham Laye, who later died, said the judge. The judge said there was nothing at all to justify the Court interfering with the conviction and sentence.

 

Folkestone Herald 11 September 1976.

Local News.

A man claiming to suffer from fits who was found apparently fast asleep at Ħhe entrance of a toilet, at West Cliff Shades, Christ Church Road, Folkestone, was fined £5 by Folkestone Magistrates on Tuesday - for being drunk.

David Norton Welling, of Castle Hill Avenue, Folkestone, who denied the offence, was told that he had had time to bring medical evidence that he suffered from fits and had done nothing about it.

 

Folkestone Herald 21 May 1977.

Local News.

Katey, the border collie, is 17 dog years and 119 human years old, and a great favourite among the regulars at the West Cliff Shades pub, in Christ Church Road, Folkestone. Despite her great age, she still manages to run around and enjoy life. But someone, it seems, wants Katey killed. Katey has been reported to the RSPCA a number of times for being a traffic hazard. Then, earlier this month, a lady went into the pub at lunchtime and accused the landlords, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Kitson, of being cruel in allowing the dog to live, and stormed out. A week later, the pub had a visit from an RSPCA officer, who had received another complaint about the dog. The Kitsons have now asked for the opinions of their customers, and have asked them to sign one or other of two petitions; asking for Katey to be put down, or asking to allow her to live out her remaining days. And the result has been emphatic. Nearly100 people have signed to say Katey should live, while nobody has signed to say she should die.

“Katey is very old and she shows a lot of the signs you would expect of a dog that age, but she is in good health”, said Mrs. Diana Kitson. “She does sometimes tend to wander out into the road here, and we are going to have to make sure that she does not do that in the future. We have had her for 15 years, and we want to keep her for a few more”.

 

Folkestone Herald 21 October 1978.

Local News.

A pub landlady and her customers were celebrating this week when they heard that the seal cull in the Orkney Islands had been called off.

Mrs. Diana Kitson, who manages the West Cliff Shades, Folkestone with her husband Robert, had campaigned against the cull by sending a protest letter to the Prime Minister. “I feel very strongly over this matter”, she said. “What annoyed me most was that about 4,000 three-week-old pups were to be slaughtered for their pelts. This would have been a terrible waste of life and only served to line the pockets of the hunters”. Mrs. Kitson was about to send a petition with 65 signatures to Mr. Callaghan when the news came that the cull had been called off.

 

South Kent Gazette 2 May 1979.

Local News.

Pub landlord Keith Hill pulled his last pint for at least 10 weeks on Saturday. The West Cliff Shades, in Christ Church Road, Folkestone, has closed its doors for extensive alterations to be done. The three bars will be knocked into one and inside toilets built.

Thirty-eight-year-old Keith, who runs the pub with his 30-year-old wife Wendy, says they will re-open in 10 weeks if all goes according to plan.

 

Folkestone Herald 14 July 1979.

Local News.

Regulars are angry because of changes to their local pub. Some are so bitter they intend to drink elsewhere because, they say, the old atmosphere has been lost.

The new-look Happy Frenchman, formerly the West Cliff Shades, in Christ Church Road, Folkestone, re-opened on Wednesday after alterations and decorations work costing £48,000. Three small bars have been knocked into one and new Victorian-style furniture has been brought in. But many old customers are not happy with the only Courage pub in town, and they do not like the new name. One described it as grotesque.

Between sips Thomas Walker said “They have spent a lot of money here but have made it a sort of London pub. The old pub needed decorating but they have gone a bit too far. Before it was more of a family place where people met and conversed in a close atmosphere. Now this is lost because it is more spaced out. The room is too big”.

Henry Harrold, of Burrow Road, Folkestone, doesn't like the name. “The French have done their best to wipe out English names, so I do not see why it had to be the Happy Frenchman, it should have been Englishman”, he said.

Jock, Charlie, Bill and George have been drinking at the pub for many years. Now Charlie and George are to drink elsewhere.
They complained that pool tables, which were popular with the young people, have gone. “It is no longer an ordinary working man's drinking pub”, Charlie said.

New landlord, Mike Burge, said on Thursday “I think most people are happy with the pub, and surprised at the change. It is hard to tell who are the old regulars; on the first night there were many people in the place. Today we have had many people from surrounding offices, who were highly delighted at the change. As to the pool table it was a company decision not to have one. The ambiance of the house would not benefit by having a pool table”.

Colin Bray, Courage (Eastern) Ltd's public relations manager, said the name was changed because of Folkestone’s close links with France.

 

 

LICENSEE LIST

BUNN L St L 1862 Post Office Directory 1862

POINTER Mr ???? 1868? (West Cliff Hotel Tap.")

COBB Thomas William Aug/1864-70 Next pub licensee had Folkestone Chronicle

WRIGHT George 1870-75 (age 35 in 1871Census)

INMAN Thomas 1875-76

Last pub licensee had WEDDERBURN Christopher William 1867-87 Post Office Directory 1882

BERGERSON Robert 1897

BARRATT William Partrick 1897

LORD C Lord 1887-99 Post Office Directory 1891Kelly's 1899

Last pub licensee had SCHUTZ Frederick 1897-1903 Kelly's 1899

BARKER Walter Herbert 1903-34 Post Office Directory 1913Post Office Directory 1922

BARKER Mrs Bessie 1934-40 Kelly's 1934Post Office Directory 1938

Executors of Mrs BARKER 1940+

BARKER Herbert 1940-45

Last pub licensee had BARKER Leonard 1945-52

CHILTON Arthur 1952-55

WILSON Harry 1955-56

CHILTON Marie 1956-57

KITSON Robert 1957-78

HILL Keith 1978-79

Renamed "Happy Frenchman."

 

Post Office Directory 1862From the Post Office Directory 1862

Post Office Directory 1874From the Post Office Directory 1874

Post Office Directory 1882From the Post Office Directory 1882

Post Office Directory 1891From the Post Office Directory 1891

Kelly's 1899From the Kelly's Directory 1899

Post Office Directory 1913From the Post Office Directory 1913

Post Office Directory 1922From the Post Office Directory 1922

Kelly's 1934From the Kelly's Directory 1934

Post Office Directory 1938From the Post Office Directory 1938

Folkestone ChronicleFrom the Folkestone Chronicle

CensusCensus

 

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