John Hicks of the Castle Ditches had been in custody twelve times between September 1843 and March 1849. He was a constant frequenter of public-houses and when in liquor, was usually violent. On the morning of Monday 22nd April 1850 he was drinking at the SHOULDER OF MUTTON , when he used threatening language against landlady Rose Sawyer and struck her. In the evening he went on to the CHEQUERS  and in a drunken state knocked furniture over. Licensee Self endeavoured to protect his property and received a black eye. Mrs Self interposed and she was kicked. A young woman was struck on the head with a poker and nearly killed. Mr. Self, with marvellous forbearance, said he did not want the prisoner punished, but kept away from his house. At the hearing Tuesday 23rd April 1850 the prisoner was ordered to pay 8s 6d for the assault on Mrs. Sawyer, with no further charges or fines being recorded.


At the Annual licensing Meeting, Tuesday 30th August 1859, the licence was renewed on condition that the character of the house be immediately improved. (It was reported that two prostitutes lived at the house.)

Mr. Weston said a new tenant would be found or the house closed if no amendment could be effected.