On this day in Yorkshire

January 21, 1933

At Harrogate, yesterday, Charles Saunders (19), a poultry dealer, was fined £10 for assaulting two policemen and £1 for assaulting Frederick T Bulmer, and ordered to pay £2 1s damages in respect of set false teeth, and £2 5s 6d costs.

The following Knaresborough youths were fined for obstructing the police - Frederick Thompson, motor driver, £3; Michael Burke, poultry dealer, £2; Joe Doherty, poultry dealer, £2; and John Roberts, labourer, £1.

Supt McDowell said the disturbance originated in the bar at the Royal Hall, when PC Scott spoke to man respecting his language. Saunders struck the constable in the eye. Youths rescued Saunders, but he was re-arrested later when PC Scott had obtained the assistance of PC Nixon.

Outside the building, the constables met a hostile crowd. Saunders suddenly struck PC Nixon in the mouth, breaking his artificial teeth, and kicked him in the body.

The constables were surrounded by a gang of about 30 youths, and PC Nixon drew his baton. Thompson grabbed it from him and again Saunders was rescued.

Supt McDowell said he considered it the most disgraceful occurrence that had ever taken place in Harrogate.

It was alleged that while Bulmer was watching the dancing, Saunders struck him in both eyes, and Bulmer had be taken to the hospital.

With the exception of Roberts, who said he was merely a spectator, defendants pleaded guilty.

On Saunders’s behalf, Mr Herbert Atkinson said he had been drinking old beer and it had affected him.