In the Crown Court Tuesday 16th March 1852, it was reported that John Meddlar appeared as a witness for the defence of Robert Emson (33) and William Hinkins (47) who were accused of highway robbery. (This appears to be a reporting error for John Medlock since both he and his wife Sarah are to be found in the 1851 census.)
The crime had taken place at Bawsey on 26th January 1852. In spite of Mr. Medlock and his wife Sarah, giving an alibi for Emson, both the accused were found guilty and sentenced to one year (Hinkins) and two year's imprisonment (Emson) with hard labour.
In his evidence Mr. Medlock said that he had been at the house for four years and that it was frequented `by women of bad character'.

An offender was chased by police and entered the Canteen Tavern. Once in, the door was closed and the policeman was refused entry by the landlord, Hotson. On Friday 24th February 1854, Hotson was bound over in £20 to appear on Monday 27th February where he was severely reprimanded and ordered to pay 19s costs.


Licence lapsed 1854, but seemingly survived as a beerhouse since the house was offered for sale by auction 8th July 1858. Sale at The Globe, Kings Lynn. Occupant then John Tann.