April 23, 1904

Edgar Crowe, labourer, Redditch, was charged with working a horse in an unfit state at Redditch on April 12.

He pleaded guilty.

Pc Earles stated that he examined the horse and underneath the saddle found a wound as large as a half-crown, running with matter.

The wound was very much inflamed.

William Ainge, defendant master, was then charged with causing the horse to be worked while in an unfit state.

Defendant said the animal was not worked on his instructions.

He left home on the 11th inst and did not return until the 18th.

Pc Earles said he had known the horse for three months and it was in poor condition.

In reply to Ainge, Pc Earles said the animal was in better condition than when it belonged to the previous owner.

The bench decided to dismiss this case on payment of the costs and Crowe was fined 10s and the costs.