Joseph Farndale CBE KPM
6 April 1864 to 22 February 1954
FAR00463
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Chief Constable of Margate, York and Bradford Police, and the
first Chairman of the Yorkshire Traffic Commissioners who was awarded the
King’s Police Medal and was made Commander of the Order of the British Empire.
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Overview
Joseph
Farndale CBE KPM was born in Wakefield and
educated at Field House Academy, Aberford.
He joined the police at the age of 20. He became Chief Constable of Margate Borough Police. In 1897, he became the
Chief Constable of York. In 1900 he became the Chief Constable of Bradford,
in which post he served for thirty years. He was the first Chairman of the
Yorkshire Traffic Commissioners under the Road Traffic Act 1930.
He
was awarded the King's Police Medal (“KPM”) in 1914
and appointed Officer of the Order of the British
Empire (“OBE”) in the 1920 civilian war honours
and Commander of the Order of the British
Empire (“CBE”) in the 1924 Birthday Honours.
Joseph and Emma
Farndale at their Silver Wedding in 1908
Joseph Farndale at his award of OBE in 1920 Portrait
of Joseph Farndale CBE KPM
Joseph Farndale’s Coat of Arms, as Chief Constable of Bradford.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 5 June 1907:
Arms: A
field of azure, a court and a conviction. Beneath the working tools of a master
policeman - bullseye, bracelets, and truncheon all ending in Black Mariah. The
fingerprints tell their own tale.
Supporters: Dexter, a mounted policeman, sinister, ditto.
Crest: The gaolers keys.
Motto. Vigilantibus, ‘To the
watchful’.
()
Leeds Investiture. Mr Joseph Farndale, Chief Constable of
Bradford, who received the OBE yesterday (Leeds
Mercury, 13 April 1921) Mrs J Farndale, wife of the Chief Constable of Bradford (Leeds
Mercury, 30 May 1923)
Acknowledgements
I
would like to thank Samantha Malkin who put me right on a number of points
regarding Joseph Farndale and his uncle Joseph (FAR00350B) who was also Chief
Constable (of Chesterfield, Leicester and Birmingham).
1865
Joseph Farndale was
born at The Smith’s Arms Wakefield on 6 April 1965, the son of Thomas Farndale, Inn keeper, Smith’s
Arms, Thomas Lane, Wakefield, and Sarah Farndale formerly Bell, (FAR00344). He
was baptised on 4 June 1865. The birth was registered in Wakefield District on
30 April 1864 by Sarah Farndale, his mother, of The Smith’s Arms, Thomas Lane,
Wakefield. (BC,
BR and PR, GRO Vol 9c page 29)
Early life
Joseph Farndale was
educated at Field House Academy in Aberford.
1871
The 1871
Census,
showed the family living at 1 Thomas Lane (The Smith Arms), Wakefield: Thomas
Farndale, head, inn keeper, 34; Sarah Farndale, wife, 37; Thomas W Farndale,
scholar, 8; Joseph Farndale, scholar, 6; Margaret Farndale, 3; Henry Farndale,
7 months; Ann Sunnergerson, a servant, from Canada;
and Ann Eliza Lesle.
1876
The Wakefield
Free Press, 23 December 1876 reported:
MR REYNER’S SCHOOOL. The usual half yearly examination was held on the 14th,
15th and 18th inst. For want of time the viva voce
examination was omitted. The following is the porize
list. … Second Engliihs Course, A Vollands,
W Shaw, H Gillot, J Farndale … ARITHMETIC. Seconbd
Class … J Farndale … ALGEBRA … Second Class … J Farndale
1881
The 1881
Census, for
66 Thomas Lane, Wakefield listed Thomas Farndale, head, inn keeper, 41; Sarah
Farndale, wife, 47; Thomas W Farndale, scholar, 18; Joseph Farndale, scholar,
16; Samuel?, 14; Margaret Farndale, 13
1883
Joseph Farndale, son of Thomas and Sarah Farndale (FAR00344) married Emma Selby
in 1883 (MR).
She died in 1936.
Joseph and Emma had a family of three:
·
Florence Farndale, born Halifax June 1884 (FAR00600)
·
Eveline Farndale, born Halifax Dec 1885 (FAR00602).
·
Emma
Farndale, born Halifax Jun
1893 (FAR00657).
(BR)
The Halifax Police, 1884 to 1893
Joseph joined the
police at the age of twenty in 1884. He was the nephew of his uncle Joseph (FAR00350B) who
was also a Chief Constable (of Leicester, Chesterfield and Birmingham police).
1886
Joseph extinguished
a house fire in October 1889. The
Bradford Daily
Telegraph, 22 October 1886: FIRE
IN A COTTAGE. About four o’clock on Thursday afternoon information was taken to
the police office that a fire had broken out at the house occupied by Squire
Ackroyd, carter, Governor Street, off Waterhouse Street. PC Farndale went to
the place and found the door was locked and the room full of smoke. The
door was forced open, and it was discovered that the bed was on fire. Farndale
procured a few buckets of water and extinguished the fire, but not before
the clothes and the bed were destroyed. Ackroyd and his wife were not at home
during the afternoon and it is not known how the fire originated.
1887
The Bradford
Daily telegraph, 18 January 1887: A
HINT TO THE PUBLIC, On Monday four young men, named respectively John Burke,
Patrick Murphy, William Dawson and Thos Graham were brought up before Mr Jas
Bairstow and Mr TS Highley of the borough court, Halifax. Charged with
wandering abroad and begging in the neighbourhood of West Hill Park o the previous da. The Chief Constable said the prisoners
seemed to belong to a gang who had come to the town from some other districts.
They were seem leaving the beerhouse on Saturday
night at eleven o’clock, and again at ;half past two on Sunday afternoon, the
worse for drink. They went to the top of the town singing and begging through
the streets. They seemed to be a very determined lot. PC Farndale, PC
Gaukrodger and Sergeant Osborne gave evidence in corroboration of this
statement. … They were sent to prison for 14 days.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 14 September 1887: DISORDERLY
CONDUCT. At the Halifax Police Court on Tuesday, before Alderman Midgeley and
Mr TS Scarborough, John Liley, Upper Kirkgate, and Jane Murgatroyd, of Bath
Parade, a woman of loose character, were each charged with disorderly conduct n
Monday night in Berwick Square, Halifax. PCs Farndale and Steele proved the
charges. Prisoners were each fined 10s and costs. John Conway, a powerful
looking man, of no fixed abode, was charged with being drunk on licensed
premises on the 12th inst. PC Farndale found the prisoner at the
Talbot Vaults on the day in question. A fine of 2s 6d and costs was imposed.
1888
By December 1888,
Joseph had been promoted to Sergeant. The Leeds
Times, 8 December 1888: A
SOLICITOR ORDERED OUT. The unusual spectacle of a solicitor being ordered out
was witnessed at the Halifax police court on Wednesday, Frederick J Chapman and
Mark Briggs, millhands, Spring Hall lane, were charged on remand with having
committed an unprovoked assault upon Franklin Ro, painter, on the evening of
November 26th. Mr Moore, who was for the defence persisted in
interfering and raising objections in the case with a vehemence which the Bench
appeared to resent, and eventually, upon a sergeant from the adjoining barracks
being called to speak to the fact of finding the complainant in the road, Mr
Moore objected several times to his evidence. At last after several
altercations with Mr Boorcock, the Bench told Mr
Moore that if he again interfered they would have him removed from the court.
Mr Moore persisted in his interference and the Bench directed the Chief
Constable (Mr C Pole) to have him removed from court. Police Sergeant
Farndale was entrusted with the task of carrying out the instruction of thee Bench, but Mr Moore proceeded to leave the court,
intimating that he would take action against the magistrate on account of the
treatment he had received. The further hearing of the case was adjourned until
Friday.
1889
The Halifax
Courier, 12 January 1889: NUMEROUS
SHOP ROBBERIES. Harriet Nicholl, a young married woman … was brought up in
custody charged with four larcenies, only three of which were gone into, and
she pleaded guilty. All the robberies were committed from shop fronts within a
few hours of each other on Monday afternoon … PC Waddington and PC [sic??]
Farndale stated that when the woman was taken into custody she was perfectly
sober … She was committed to the House of Correction for one month.
The Halifax
Courier, 10 August 1889: ASSAULTING
A CONSTABLE. Wm Crabtree, shoemaker .. was charged with being drunk and
disorderly … and with assaulting PC Wilson whilst in the execution of his duty
… Sergeant Farndale said the prisoner’s conduct and language in the office
were disgraceful – this was his third appearance …
1890
The Leeds
Times, 10 May 1890: HALIFAX
POLICE COURT … On Thursday, Ellen
Dobson, a married woman, whose husband is employed at the coal yard at the
railway station, and who resides at Range-lane, Halifax, was brought before the
magistrates. Police Sergeant Farndale said that shortly after ten o’clock
the woman came to the police office with a knife in her hand and said she
wanted to cut her throat. He sent for her husband. He was evidently
suffering from the effects of drink. The husband said she had been drinking for
a fortnight. They had no family. The woman was remanded.
1891
The 1891
Census, for
18 Colberk Street, Halifax listed Joseph Farndale,
head, 26, Police Clerk; Emma Farndale, wife, 28; Florence Farndale, aged 6;
Eveline Farndale, aged 5.
By 1891, he was
Chief Clerk with the Halifax police, with ambitions for Chief Constableship,
like his uncle:
The Yorkshire Evening Post, 26 September 1891: New
Chief Constable of Grantham. Yesterday the Watch Committee of the
Grantham Town Hall appointed Chief Inspector Holland, of Bootle, Liverpool, as
Chief Constable of the Borough. Thirty applications were sent in, from which
six were selected and applicants attended before the committee. The others
were … Chief Clerk Farndale, Halifax …
1892
Joseph Farndale
became head of the Halifax detective department by 1892.
The Bradford
Weekly Telegraph, 24 December 1892: The
appointment of Chief Clerk Inspector Farndale to the head of the Halifax
Detective Department will be perceived with favour by those with whom the
Inspector will come into contact. During the discharge of the onerous duties of
Chief Clerk he has displayed abilities which fit him for the post of
Detective Inspector, and he is a worthy successor to the late Inspector, Mr
E Newburn… The compliment paid by Mr Evans to Inspector Farndale, of the
Halifax police on Friday on his smart capture of the alleged Forger Fawcett
was well merited and adds another feather to the cap of the Inspector. The pace
by Fawcett was hotter than generally known, and the young man being known to be
in possession of firearms, the chase implied a certain amount of risk. Fawcett
took the train to Littleborough, where he alighted. Rochdale was reached by a
subsequent train, and Preston was afterwards visited, Fawcett taking the
precaution to change his attire. The same evening Fawcett took part in a fancy
dress ball at Preston and then decamped to Liverpool where the Inspector “ran
him to earth” in the suburbs. Altogether the capture was a very smart one.
He soon gained a
reputation as a detective when he chased down a forger to Liverpool. The Lincolnshire
Chronicle, 16 December 1892: ALLEGED
FORGERY BY A BANK CLERK. At the Halifax Borough Court on Monday, Charles
Fawcett, of the Square, Halifax, was charged with having forged a cheque
for £2,000 on the Halifax branch of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Bank, in
the name of David Haigh, who has a deposit account there. Prisoner is only 19
years of age, has for some time been employed as a bank clerk at the bank …
Prisoner is well known and respectably connected. For some time past he has
expended his money lavishly, and Inspector Farndale, of the Halifax Borough
Police Force, traced him to Walton on the Hill, Liverpool and arrested him on
Saturday night. He had over £80 in his possession and a loaded six
chambered revolver. The disclosures have created a great deal of a stir in
Halifax.
The Yorkshire
Evening Post, 16 December 1892:
LATE BUFF EDITION
THE ALLEGED FORGERY AT HALIFAX
A CHEQUE FOR £2,000
COMMITTED FOR TRIAL
The magistrates on the bench were...
Great interest was taken in the proceedings. The court
was crowded long before 11 o’clock, the time for commencing, and many people
were unable to obtain admission.
Before the business was commenced the Mayor, on behalf
of the bench, and Mr Storey, on behalf of the bar, welcomed 7 new magistrates
who have recently been appointed.
Mr. Evans, in opening the case, stated that he should ask
the bench to commit the prisoner for trial at the assizes on a charge of
uttering a forged cheque knowing it to be forged. The evidence as to the
forgery of the cheque was purely circumstantial, as no one had seen the
prisoner write the name upon it. If prisoner was committed for trial, then the
charge of forgery could afterwards be gone into at the assizes. For several years
the prisoner had been employed at the Halifax branch of the Lancashire and Yorkshire
Bank as a Ledger clerk. Among the customers of the bank was a gentleman named
David Haigh, who on the 31st October placed the sum of £2,000 at the bank on
deposit account. The prisoner was aware of this circumstance and being pressed
for money by a man named Crabtree had made two unsuccessful attempts to borrow
money from Mr Haigh. Prisoner told Mr Haigh that he had a considerable sum of
money of his own, and if Mr Haigh at any time wished to borrow £100 he would be
pleased to lend it to him. On the 6th December, when Mr Constantine, the
cashier, went to the Lancashire and Yorkshire Bank about 9:30 in the morning,
he found the prisoner and arrived before him, and had been alone in the
premises. Prisoner informed Mr Constantine that a man had been to the bank, and
had inquired for a cheque, though there were no loose ones on the counter, and
prisoner stated that he had taken an unused chequebook from the safe and given
it to the man in question. Prisoner described this man, and Mr Constantine replied,
why that is Mr. David Haigh. Prisoner said that was the name of the person he
had alluded to. At 2:30 in the afternoon, prisoner went to London and Yorkshire
Bank, which is also on Crossley Street, in the absence of the manager. He saw
the cashier, Mr Hemingway, to whom he said “I have come to open a current
account with you”. He passed a check to Mr Hemingway, but the latter observed
that there was no date, no figures, and no payee upon it, handed it back to the
prisoner The latter said “I want you to fill it up”. Mr. Evans said that Mr
Hemingway, with that simplicity and confiding trust in fallen and depraved
nature which did more credit to his heart than his head, filled it up and put
it in the name of the London and Yorkshire Bank. Mr Hemingway, at the request
of the prisoner, also filled in the amount of £2,000. Later in the day the
prisoner was made out the banker’s draft at the Lancashire and Yorkshire Bank,
with which the cheque was to be paid, and got the manager, Mr Riley, to sign
it. After the bankers draught had been issued to the London and Yorkshire Bank,
the prisoner drew pounds 100 of the money to give a creditor who was pressing
him. He subsequently drew out pounds 800 and pound 630 placed to the credit of
its father's account at the Lancashire and Yorkshire Bank, and £200 was placed
to his own credit. On the Friday he absconded and was arrested on the
Saturday night by Inspector Farndale at Liverpool.
Evidence in support of the charge was given by Mr.
James Arthur Riley, the manager of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Bank, and by
Mr. David Haigh, bearing out Mr. Evans statement. The latter stated he had not
signed the cheque in question.
Fawcett was committed to trial at the assizes bail
being granted, himself, £1,000, and two sureties of £500 each.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 2 January 1893:
HALIFAX BOROUGH – AN INDIGNANT PRISONER. Mary Clough, a
elderly woman, who refused to give any account of herself, was charged with
larceny from the person of Annie Pollard on Saturday night last in the lower
market. The prosecutrix, whilst standing near a pot stall, felt someone feeling
her pocket and accused the prisoner of taking her purse. The prisoner
indignantly replied “How dare you charge me with stealing your purse.”
Subsequently however she ran away, but was noticed by Sergeant Greenwood and
taken into custody. Chief Inspector Detective Farndale asked for a remand
until Friday, which was granted.
In the Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 6 January 1893, the
story was reported under the headline AN OLD OFFENDER concerning
Rosanna O’Neill, alias Mary Clough, an elderly woman and it was reported
that Chief Inspector Detective Farndale said the prisoner had been
committed for penal servitude for similar offences at Preston and
Manchester. At present she was supposed to be under police supervision, but she
had never reported herself since leaving prison. She was committed to gaol for
two months.
The Yorkshire
Evening Post, 4 January 1893:
WELL KNOWN IN THE CHOIR. At the Halifax Borough Court today, William Henry
Meham, rag sorter, of Chapel Fold, was charged with behaving himself in a
disorderly manner in Chapel Fold last night. When the prisoner’s name was
called he stepped quickly into the box and stated “Yes, your Lordship”. Detective
Inspector Farndale stated that the prisoner was a man of weak intellect.
The Chairman (Dr Dolan) asked the inspector if the prisoner had a mother. Upon
hearing the question the prisoner promptly replied, “I have a mother, doctor”.
This led one of the magistrates to remark that the prisoner seemed wideawake.
…
The Yorkshire
Evening Post, 13 January 1893:
DRUNK OR SOBER? CHARGE AGANST A HALIFAX LANDLORD. At the Halifax Borough
Court today, Aquilla Halstead, landlord of the Crispin Inn, Smithy Stoke, was
summoned for being drunk on his own licensed premises on the 7th inst … Detective Inspector Farndale stated that
about eleven o’clock on the morning of the 7th the defendant came to
the police office, and wished to know if he had been reported for being
drunk. He also stated that he should be examined by a doctor. The defendant
appeared to have braced himself up for the occasion. The defendant denied
that he had had anything to drink when the constables came to the house except
tea …
Joseph Farndale
applied to be Chief Constable of St Albans in March 1893. The Herts
Gazette, 4 March 1893: THE
NEW CHIEF CONSTABLE FOR ST ALBANS. The Watch Committee of the St Albans Town
Council, held a special meeting on Tuesday evening to choose from the seven
candidates, selected from 31 candidates the future head constable of the city.
The selected candidates were … Joseph Farndale, inspector and head of the
detective department, Halifax... The post is worth £140 a year.
Chief Constable of Margate Police 1893 to 1897
Joseph became Chief
Constable of Margate Borough Police in June 1893.
The Yorkshire
Evening Post, 26 June 1893: THE
NEW CHIEF CONSTABLE OF MARGATE. Detective Inspector Farndale, of the Halifax
Borough Police, has been appointed Chief Constable of Margate. Mr
Farndale, who is only 30 years of age, is a native of Wakefield, being
the son of a well known tradesman in that city. He
was educated at Fieldhouse Academy, Aberford, and was intended for a chemist
and druggist. Ten years ago, he relinquished that profession for the police
force, which had greater attractions for him, and he became a constable at
Halifax. His ability was recognised, and at the end of four years he has risen
to be chief clerk. For six years he has discharged the duties of that
position ably and successfully. Upon the retirement of Detective Inspector
Newburn he was appointed head of the detective department, and the
success which he achieved in another sphere followed him there. Mr Farndale's
appointment to the Chief Constableship of Margate his well
deserved. He is in a nephew of Chief Constable Farndale, of Birmingham,
who also commenced at the bottom rung of the ladder, starting as a constable at
Middlesbrough some 30 years ago.
The Birmingham
Daily Post, 27 June 1893: THE
NEW CHIEF CONSTABLE OF MARGATE. Detective Inspector Farndale, of the Halifax
Borough Police, has been appointed Chief Constable of Margate. Mr Farndale, who
is only thirty years of age, is a native of Wakefield, being the son of a well known tradesman in that city. He is the nephew of
Chief constable Farndale, of Birmingham. See FAR000350B.
The Sheffield
Evening Telegraph, 10 July 1893: The
new chief constable of Margate, Mr Farndale, started, like his uncle, the chief
constable of Birmingham, from the bottom rung of the ladder. A native of
Wakefield, he began life in an apothecary’s shop, but at the age of twenty abandoned
the pestle and mortar and took service in the Halifax police force. His
choice of an occupation was justified in the event, for in four years he rose
to be chief clerk, and five years later was appointed head of the detective
department. He is still a young man, having yet to complete his thirty first
year.
Joseph Farndale gave
his report on licensing in
September,
reported in the
Canterbury Journal, 16 September 1893.
ANNUAL LICENSING SESSION
The annual licencing session for this borough was held
on Thursday, the licencing committee being the Mayor (Councillor Leetham), the ex Mayor (Alderman Hermitage), and Messrs Keppel, Marshall,
Pointon, Coleman and Head.
The Clerk, (Mr Boys), read to the Chief Constable 's
annual report, which was as follows:
Chief Constable’s office, Town Hall, Margate, 7
September 1893.
To the chairman and justices of the licencing
committee for the borough of Margate.
Gentlemen, I have the honour to report, for your
information that there are within your jurisdiction 123 premises licenced
for the sale of intoxicating liquors, being an increase of two upon the
number in existence at the last annual licencing meeting, and taking the
population according to the last census, gives an average of 1 licenced house
to 149 persons, but it is estimated that for 4 months during the year the
average population will be at least 50,000, which will give an average of 406
persons to 1 licence. 74 of the licences are for the sale of beer, wines, and
spirits, to be consumed on or off the premises; six for beer; 13 beer and
wines; 2 wines; 4 beer; 3 for beer and wines to be consumed off the premises; 3
beer and spirits; 5 beer, wines and spirits; 6 wines; 2 wines and spirits; 1
beer cider and perry; 4 sweets. Seven of the licenced victuallers hold early
morning licences. One room is licenced for billiards. 30 publicans and 12
private persons, making a total of 42, hold music and dancing licences. During
the past year, 3 licence holders have been proceeded against for offences
against the tenure of their licences, and the result is as follows: for being
open during prohibited hours Henry Holier, off the Druids Arms was fined
£5 and costs. For selling intoxicating liquor to drunken persons Robert
Stokes, of the Hope and Anchor, was fined 20s and costs and a case of permitting
drunkenness at the First and Last was dismissed. 4 persons have been
convicted of being drunk on licenced premises. Licence holders had
proceeded against 3 persons for refusing to quit their licenced premises. 51
persons, of whom 43 were males and 8 with females, have been preceded against
for drunkenness and 41 were convicted. There is a decrease of 6 on the number
preceded against during last year, and an increase of 6 up on the average for
the last four years. 9 full licences and 6 off licences have been transferred
but an application for the transfer of the licence of the Fort Castle Hotel,
was refused and the present holder of the licence has not had the premises open
for the sale of intoxicants since November last, and the premises have been
closed for the greater part of the last four years. The justices have granted
119 extensions of the time of closing licenced premises on occasions of
suppers, balls etc, being held on the premises. I have received notices of 7
applications for new licences, 3 of which are to sell beer, wine and spirits, 2
to sell beer and wines, 1 to sell spirits, and 1 to sell beer.
I have the honour to be, gentlemen, your obedient
servant, Joseph farndale.
Joseph became, in
the antiquated language of the day, the Assistant Relieving Officer for Tramps. The Whitstable
Times and Herne Bay Herald, 29 July 1893: ASSISTANT RELIEVING OFFICER FOR MARGATE. A letter was
received from Mr J Farndale, Chief Constable of Margate, in which he state that
his predecessor (Mr Buck) having held the appointment of assistant relieving
officer for tramps, at a salary of £5 5s per annum, he should be pleased if
the Guardians would appoint him to the post. On the motion of Mr Holttum, Mr Farndale was appointed to the same office at
the same salary as his predecessor.
The Thanet
Advertiser, 5 August 1893: The
new chief constable of Margate, Mr Farndale, was welcomed on his arrival by Mr
Keble, Chairman of the Bench, on Wednesday.
The Whitstable
Times and Herne Bay Herald, 19 August 1893: In the trial of a man charged with having acted as a pedlar and
assault, Chief Constable Farndale said he had received several complaints
of the conduct of pedlars, who intimidated women by forcing goods on them
…
The Deal,
Walmer and Sandwich Mercury, 19 September 1893: LEAVING HORSES UNCONTROLLED. … Chief Constable
Farndale said he took up these cases on grounds of public safety, as a few days
before this offence a horse attached to a brewer’s van (which was being
unloaded) ran away along Marine terrace and it was a miracle that there was not
a serious accident ..
1894
Joseph was also the
Inspector of Weights and Measures. The Yorkshire
evening Post, 6 June 1894: MR
J FARNDALE, formerly detective inspector at Halifax, and now Chief Constable of
Margate, has passed the examination held by the Board of Trade for inspector
of weights and measures.
The Thanet
Advertiser, 9 June 1894: THE
CHARGE OF MANSLAUGHTER AT MARGATE. On Monday afternoon the Coroner’s Inquiry
into the death of John Dale, a carriage proprietor and greengrocer, which
occurred under circumstances reported in our last issue, was resumed at the
Town Hall. It will be remembered that a young cyclist named Frederick Louis
Collins of Paradise Street, collided with the deceased as he was crossing the
road. Collins was arrested and charged with manslaughter, and the hearing of
the case was adjourned … Chief Constable Farndale asked the witness how he
fixed the speed when he said the cyclist was riding about seven miles an hour
…
1895
He dealt with a case
of a buyer who didn’t receive the incubator which he had bought. The Empire
News & The Umpire, 10 February 1895: An Arrest at Carlisle. A desire sprung up in the breast of Mr
Frederick Ind, of Margate, to become the possessor of an incubator, and
to pacify his longing he advertised his requirement in the “Exchange and Mart”.
The advertisement did not fail to escape the watchful eyes of Albert
Edward Woodson of Neasham Road, Darlington, who considerately offered him
one for the modest sum of 35s. With commendable promptitude and in good
faith, Mr Ind forwarded the amount asked, but to his dismay no incubator
arrived. The matter was then transferred to a third party, and Chef
Constable Farndale, of Margate, took up the cudgels. He traced the young
man with the incubator to 14 Tait Street, Carlisle, where he discovered him
carrying on a brisk business in the name of Mr Hollands. He was promptly
arrested, and at his lodging were found numerous letters, most of which
contained postal orders. Alas! For the young man no incubator could be found,
and as an excuse he pleaded poverty. He was escorted to Margate where the
magistrates have remanded him for a week.
The Canterbury
Journal, Kentish Times and Farmers’ Gazette, 11 May 1895: Chief Constable Farndale, inspector of weights
and measures, said on the 4th of March, he saw Henry Baker
delivering coal from sacks at the Station Hotel. He asked Baker if he had
delivered the coal ticket and he said that he had not,and
continued to deliver the coal. Afterwards he entered the bar; and in
consequence of what he (the Chief Constable) said to the previous witness, she
handed him the ticket now produced …
Joseph Farndale was
regularly involved in bicycling offences. The Whitstable
Times and Herne Bay Herald, 24 August 1895: INSOLENCE TO A JP. William Sparn
was summoned for riding a bicycle in Paradise street without giving an audible
warning of his approach. Chief Constable Farndale said the defendant rode
the bicycle, on the 3rd inst, between
7 and 8 o’clock in the evening, down Paradise street, and there collided
with a foot passenger, who was crossing the roadway. He was not heard to
whistle or ring his bell …
The Thanet
Advertiser, 12 October 1895:
VAGRANCY. Superintendent Farndale, of Margate Borough Police, reported that
during the year ended July 20th, 1895, 167 vagrants were relieved,
viz: 154 men, 11 women, and two children, 19 of whom were sent to the
Workhouse, and the remainder were accommodated in common lodging houses
at Margate.
1896
The Canterbury
Journal, Kentish Times and Farmer’s Gazette, 15 February 1896: A KIND HEARTED MISTRESS. Jane Dack, domestic
servant, aged 17, from Norfolk, was charged by her master, Mr Hugh Denny, 29
with stealing a gold ring and about £10 … The prisoner pleaded guilty
and said she was sorry for it. She also said her mistress had been very kind to
her, and she had had a good place. Head Constable Farndale, having said
she told him how she spent the money, and that she was seized with a temptation
to steal, which she deeply regretted … her mistress had very kindly informed
the magistrates that she would take her back into service, therefore they would
bind her over for six months to be of good behaviour to her mistress and
everybody … The prisoner thanked the magistrates and her mistress, and said
she would do all she could to be a good girl in future.
He became interested
in the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (“RSPCA”). The Thanet
Advertiser, 16 May 1896: THE
RSPCA. DEPARTURE OF INSPECTOR WALDING. On Thursday evening an interesting
ceremony was performed at the Margate Town Hall, the occasion being a
presentation to Inspector George Walding, who, for the past two years and eight
months, has energetically represented the Royal Society for the Prevention of
Cruelty to Animals, in this district, and who left yesterday for the Isle of
Wight District, where he will have sole charge. … There were present: Chief
Constable Farndale … the Chief Constable, addressing Inspector Walding, said
the members of the Force, from the highest and lowest, having been made aware
that the authorities of the RSPCA in London had thought fit to remove him to
another district, they wished in parting to show in some form of their
appreciation of the services he, Inspector Walding, had rendered to the police
in many ways during the time he had been stationed at Margate. With that view
they had subscribed towards a small present, a walking stick, as an acknowledgement
of his services, and as a memento of the good feeling which existed in the
Force towards him. Personally, he, Mr Farndale, must say it was very
gratifying to him as chief constable to find such a good feeling, existing
between the police and a representative of the noble society, the RSPCA,
and he thought it was the first occasion on which an officer of the society had
had his services acknowledged in this way. The society ought to be proud of
such an officer for the way in which he had discharged his onerous and often
trying duties. Concluding, Chief Constable Farndale said: I ask you to in the
name of myself and the whole members of the Force, to accept this walking stick
as an acknowledgement of the able manner in which you have carried out your
duties, the amicable way in which you have always worked with the police, and
the ready assistance you have always given them. I am echoing the wishes of
every man in the Force when I say I hope you will continue to be prosperous in
your calling as an officer of this society, and that you and your wife may
enjoy good health wherever you may be.
The Thanet
Advertiser, 8 August 1896: (In
this article, there is a suggestion that he may have had a middle name J
(perhaps John after his grandfather), though this is not apparent anywhere
else): MARGATE AND THE VAGRANTS. Mr J J Farndale
(Chief Constable of Margate) wrote, in reply to the Board’s letter, that he
quite agreed with the Guardians that the accommodation for vagrants was
inadequate in Margate, and he intended shortly to bring the matter before
the local authority. It was not the custom to put vagrants into a common
lodging house unless it was too late to send them by train to Minster.
There was concern
about a motor car driving in excess of 2 miles per hour. Times were changing
and the law needed to catch up. The
Canterbury Journal,
Kentish Times and Farmer’s’ Gazette, 29 August 1896: MARGATE – FOURTEEN MILES AN HOUR ON A MOTOR CAR. Charles
Turrell, of 40 Holborn Viaduct, London, was summoned before the Borough
Justices on Wednesday for, on two dates, driving a locomotive on the high
street at a greater speed than two miles an hour. The Chief Constable said
the locomotive was a motor car and came within the provisions of the Act. PC
Bellingham proved that on 31st July he saw the defendant driving his
motor car down Paradise Street to the Parade at the rate of 14 miles an hour.
In cross examination by Mr Hills, he said he had seen another motor car on the
street, and had not reported it; that one was driven carefully, and less than
14 miles an hour. Herbert Twyman swore that the motor car in this instance was
driven at the speed of 14 miles an hour. Chief Constable Farndale, examined
by Mr Hills, said he knew it was an offence to drive a motor car in the streets
more than two miles an hour. He knew that a motor car was plying for hire
in this borough for a month, and he had ridden in it. He did not proceed
against the man by whom it was driven, because he did not think it was
desirable to do so, but in this case, the driver travelled at a rate dangerous
to the public, viz, 14 miles an hour. He did not know when he issued the
summons that an Act of Parliament had been passed into law permitting motor
vehicles to travel on the highway like other vehicles. Mr Hills stated that
the Act had received Royal Asset; he could not say when; but it had passed
through Parliament before the summons was issued. The case was dismissed, and
the second summons was withdrawn.
In the early 1890s the first cars to be driven on
the roads in Britain were imported. In 1895, the first man to own and drive a
car in Britain was Evelyn Ellis. It is estimated that by 1895, there were still
only about 15 cars in Britain, imported from abroad. By 1900, the number had
risen to about 700. Work to build the first motor car in Britain began in 1892
by Frederick Bremner, a gas fitter and plumber. His vehicle first ran on the
public highway in 1894. Fords started to arrive in Britain from about 1908.
At the same time his uncle, Joseph Farndale, Chief
Constable of Birmingham Police, was involved in a charge against a motor car
driver for failing to have a man walking 20 yards ahead of the vehicle. See
FAR00350B.
1897
An early case of
drunk horse and trap driving was brought to the Police Court. The Thanet
Advertiser, 2 January 1897:
EXTRAORDINARY CODUCT. On Saturday, at the Margate Borough Police Court, a
fly driver named John William Woodward, appeared in answer to a summons for
being drunk in charge of a horse and trap, on Christmas Eve. … Defendant
continually interrupted whilst the officers gave evidence and caused much
amusement when he made the remark “I was as sober as I am now.” It
was quite evident that whilst the defendant stood in the dock he was suffering
from the effects of liquor. The Chief Constable stated that he had seen
several times previously convicted, but in view of the festive season, the
chairman intimated that he would only be fined 10s and costs. Defendant: I
won’t pay. The Chairman: Fourteen days. Defendant was about to be removed
to the cells, when he shouted “Give us another minute” and clung to the
rails of the dock. The assistance of three policemen had to be obtained in
order to take the prisoner downstairs. Woodward was placed in the dock again on
Monday morning when Chief Constable Farndale informed the magistrates that
the prisoner was not in a fit condition to be admitted to the gaol on
Saturday. He (prisoner) now wished to apologise for his conduct at the
previous hearing and anted to know if the mayor
would allow him time to pay the fine. Prisoner said he was sorry for what had
occurred, but before going to the Court his master gave him some drink which
upset him. The magistrates refused the application and the prisoner was removed
below.
A fly driver drove a one horse lightweight carriage.
The Whitstable
Times and Herne Bay herald, 13 February 1897: On a charge against a man for wilfully setting
fire to his chimney Chief Constable Farndale said when a witness told
the defendant his chimney was on fire, he said he knew it, and was going to
burn the place down. At that time there was a quantity of timber on a large
coal fire, and some waste paper in the fender …
The
Jubillee of Queen Victoria.
The Thanet Advertiser, 26 June 1897: The Jubilee at Margate. On Sunday
morning the Mayor Alderman E Maltby and Corporation of Margate attended St.
John's Church in state, accompanied by various public bodies and prominent
local officials. The order of processions was as follows: mounted police; band
of Number 7 company, 1st Cinque Ports VA; No 7 company, 1st CPVA
under Leiutenant A Leetam,
Captain E Wastall 1st VBEKR, Margate Lodge
RAOB, Quiver lifeboat crew, Borough fire brigade under Superintendent Wells,
the Town Crier, freemasons, aldermen, councillors, magistrates, officials, the
town sergeant, His worship the Mayor, wearing his robes and chain, Margate Borough
Police, under Chief Constable J Farndale.
The route was from the town hall by way of Duke
Street, Parade, and High Street, crowds of people lining the thoroughfares. At
the church, which was crowded, the vicar of Margate, Reverend W H T Ashton Gwatkin, preached an appropriate sermon....
The Whitstable
Times and Herne Bay Herald, 14 August 1897: POLICE COURTS. THE OMNIBUS BYE LAWS INFRINGED. Edwin Gayward, 28, Byron Road, was summoned for conveying a
greater number of persons in an omnibus of which he was the driver that he was
authorised to do. Chief Constable Farndale said the proceedings were taken
under the 15th of the Omnibus Bylaws, which laid down that no more than 18
persons, exclusive of the driver and conductor, should occupy an omnibus drawn
by two horses. The defendant had 20 passengers, and when PC Leper pointed that
fact out to him, before he left the stand, he defied to the constable and drove
off. PC Leper having proved the case, the defendant said his break was licenced
by the Watch Committee to accommodate 22 persons, but Alderman Wootton, who is
on the Watch Committee, denied that was the case. Sergeant Ferrier said there
were twenty adult passengers and one child. The defendant repeated that his
break was licenced to carry 22, and that he did not know anything of 18. He admitted
that, including children, he had 21 passengers; two children counted as one
passenger. The defendant was fined 5s and 8s costs.
Chief Constable of York Police, 1897 to 1900
Joseph Farndale
became Chief Constable of York from 1897 to 1900 (Letter).
The Manchester
Evening News, 25 September 1897: The
New Chief Constableship of York. The Watch Committee of the York Corporation,
at a meeting yesterday afternoon, had personal interviews with the four
gentlemen selected for the final choice rom the
twenty seven applicants for the position of Chief Constable. Mr Joseph
Farndale, Chief Constable of Margate; Mr Jones Chief Constable of Grantham; Mr
Pelley, Devon Police; and Inspector Reeve, Doncaster were the selected
candidates, and the committee’s choice finally fell upon Mr Farndale.
The new Chief Constable is thirty three years of age, and has held the
position of Chief Constable of Margate since 1893. Prior to that time he had
passed through various grades from the ranks, and had been send in command at
Halifax.
The Edinburgh
Evening News, 25 September 1897: THE
CHIEF CONSTABLESHIP OF YORK. Mr Joseph Farndale, Chief Constable of Margate,
was yesterday chosen out of a short list of four to be Chief Constable of York.
The Yorkshire
Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 5 October 1897: The Watch Committee reported the resignation of
Mr E T Lloyd as Chief Constable, and their proposal to appoint Mr John [sic]
Farndale, now Chief Constable of Margate, as his successor at a salary of
£300. After some discussion the report was adopted, and Mr Farndale, who
was in attendance, was called into the room, and returned thanks for his
appointment. He stated that he would be able to commence the duties on 1st
of November.
The Whitstable
Times and Herne Bay Herald, 16 October 1897: THE CHIEF CONSTABLE’S RESIGNATION. The Watch
Committee reported that they had accepted Mr Farndale’s resignation as chief
constable, on his appointment to a similar position in York. They
recommended that their satisfaction at the way in which he had discharged
his duties should be engrossed on vellum and presented to him. They advised
that a new chief constable should be advertised for. Mr Rigdon thought, whoever
was appointed should personally discharge the duties of Inspector of Weights
and Measures. Mr Rolfe said he noticed that there was a charge for an
assistant’s services. He wished to know who authorised the payment? He had
asked Mr Brooke, in the Finance Committee, but he did not know anything of it.
Mr Brooke: so far as my memory served me, Mr Simmons also objected to the
payment. Alderman Leetham spoke of the pleasure it gave him to hear of the
report as to the satisfaction of Mr Farndale had given it to the Watch
Committee, and he said he congratulated the chief constable on the his
important appointment. Alderman Coleman said he knew when the inspection of
weights and measures took place it was necessary that the Chief should be
assisted. He suggested that, at the next meeting, a resolution should be
carried as to the payment to the assistant….
Joseph was given a
good send off from Margate. The
Whitstable Times and
Herne Bay Herald, 30 October 1897:
PRESENTATIONS TO CHIEF CONSTABLE FARNDALE. FROM THE
BURGESSES.
On Wednesday, presentations were made to Mr Joseph
farndale, the chief constable of this borough, who has recently been appointed
to the command of the city police of York. The mayor presided and there were
present...
The Mayor said he had a very pleasing duty to perform
- the presentation of a purse of gold to the chief constable, on his
appointment to York, after having held his present office nearly five years.
The magistrates and members of the Watch Committee well knew the ability with
which he discharged his duty duties; And, so far as he was concerned, he, as
Mayor, had worked very amicably with him during the present year. He believed
he had done his duty thoroughly well and to the satisfaction of the
burgesses. Of course the chief constable held a peculiar position. It was
not likely that he would please the whole of the burgesses; on the contrary, a
chief constable, if he discharged his duty impartially, as he had every reason
to believe Mr farndale had, he was very likely to displease a number of
persons; but he thought he would leave Margate with the good wishes of all
whose good opinion desirable. He hoped, when he assumed his important duties in
the ancient City of York, he would be successful in all he had to do. He was
sure he would do it with his whole heart, as he had in Margate. In handing the
purse and contents to Mr Farndale, his worship said it afforded him great
pleasure to do so; And that he wished him every success in his new office
(cheers).
Chief Constable Farndale said he did not know how to
find words to express his thanks to those who had thus shown their appreciation
for his services. He thought, when he came here, he had a difficult task before
him. He followed a most excellent chief constable, Mr Buck, who did much to
improve the police force; Therefore, it was most pleasing to him to find
that he had succeeded in maintaining the efficiency of the force, which he
is pleased to say was efficient in every sense. The town had splendid police
accommodation, which was very inadequate when he came to Margate. He felt very
grateful to the magistrates for their kind consideration when he conducted
cases before them. It was no easy task to discharge his duties. He always
considered the offenders and the interests of the town, and had received much
encouragement from their worships. Referring to the Watch Committee he said
that, whatever they did had a very great effect in a town such as Margate. He
was pleased to find, by the resolution they had placed on their minutes, that
he had satisfied them during the time he had been there. He then paid a high
eulogy on his force, and made special mention of at most respected officer,
Inspector Penfold (cheers). The whole of the members had helped in the
maintenance of the good name of Margate, so far as policing was concerned. He
would be pleased if he found such an efficient force at York. He expressed his
thanks to the magistrates’ clerk and town clerk and their deputies; and said he
should always remember Margate. His residence here had been very pleasant; and
he hopes to be spared to see Margate a very prosperous and big centre.
The mayor expressed the regret of Alderman Leetham and
Councillor Brown at their inability to be present.
The amount of the subscription was £46 7s 6d.
From the police force.
The Mayor then, on behalf of the police force, nearly
the whole of whom gave their subscription to the fund, handed to the chief
constable, a sword, supplied by Messrs Samuel Bros, Ludgate Hill, London on
which was the following inscription:
“Presented to Joseph Farndale, chief constable, by the
officers and men of the Margate police force, on his appointment as Chief
Constable of the City of York, October 1897.”
It also bears the monogram “JF”, and the Margate
borough arms.
His worship stated that Margate has now a police
force second to none anywhere (cheers). They were a fine body of men, and
from Inspector Penfold, who judging by the cheers with which his name had been
received, was deservedly popular, and to the youngest member all did their duty
well.
Inspector Penfold thanked the Chief Constable for his
kindness to the members, and expressed their best wishes for his happiness, and
that of Mrs Farndale and family.
Chief Constable Farndale, in returning thanks, spoke
of the great interest he had taken in all that concerned the welfare of those
serving under him.
From the firemen
The officers and members of the
borough fire brigade assembled at the Queens Arms, on Wednesday evening, and presented to Mr Farndale, a
silver mounted inkstand. The presentation was made by Superintendent well;
And the chief constable suitably acknowledged the gift. Several songs were
sung during the evening.
The Hull
Daily Mail, 2 November 1897: Mr
J Farndale, the newly appointed Chief Constable of York, was sworn in
yesterday at the York Police court, and entered upon his duties.
1898
Clearly ambitious,
it wasn’t long before Joseph Farndale was looking for another upgrade. The Derby
Mercury, 9 November 1898: THE
CHIEF CONSTABLESHIP OF SHEFFIELD. The four selected candidates for the
appointment of chief constable of Sheffield are Mr. James Enright, chief
constable of Rotherham; Mr Joseph Farndale, chief constable of York;
Commander Scott, chief constable of Salford, and Mr Edward Sperrin, Chief
Superintendent at Liverpool There were 19 candidates.
The Yorkshire
Evening Post, 30 December 1898: A
FORMER LEEDS POLICE OFFICIAL. Mr A C Mackintosh, at present chief constable of
Maidstone, formerly chief clerk in the Leeds police office, is among the applicants
for the vacant chief constable ship of Newcastle. The list also includes
the names of Mr Joseph Farndale, chief constable of York, and Mr W H Jones,
chief constable of Stockport. Another of the applicant is a London barrister,
while the chief clerk of the Bucks County council figures in the list.
1899
The Leeds
Mercury, 7 January 1899 (also
reported in Nottingham
Evening Post): The
Chief Constableship of Newcastle. The Watch Committee of Newcastle
Corporation yesterday made a selection of five from the list of candidates for
the position of Chief Constable of the city, at a salary to begin with of £500.
The Council will be invited to make the final choice to which the Watch
Committee will give effect next Friday. The selected five are – Joseph
Farndale, chief constable of York …
The York
Herald, 10 January 1899: York
City Police. £5 Reward. Whereas on Sunday, the 8th inst, some person or persons wilfully killed a young
SWAN on the Rover Ouse, near Clifton Ings, the property of the Ouse
Navigation Committee, by shooting it in the neck.
The above reward will be paid to any person giving
such information as will lead to the conviction of the offender. Joseph
Farndale, Chef Constable, Chief Constable’s Office, York,. 9th Dec,
1898
The Manchester
Evening News, 12 January 1899: The
Newcastle City Council yesterday took a vote upon the five candidates
selected by the Watch Committee from the applicants for the position of Chief
Constable. District Inspector James B Wright (37) was appointed. The other
selected candidates were … Joseph Farndale (34), chief constable, York …
He didn’t do well in
the Newcastle Chief Constable application, perhaps it was too soon. The Shields
Daily News, 12 January 1899: THE
NEW CHIEF CONSTABLE OF NEWCASTLE. MR WRIGHT OF BELFAST. A meeting of the
Newcastle City Council was held yesterday, in the council chamber, Mr George
Harkus, Mayor, presiding, the principal business being the appointment of a
chief constable for the city. The following was the result of the vote voting:
The first vote. The first vote was Wilson, 22; Wright, 20; Wymer, 10; Morant,
8; Farndale, 3. Second vote. The name of Mr Farndale was dropped and the second
vote was...
Within
months he was applying for the vacancy for Chief Constableship of the city of
Birmingham, after his uncle Joseph Farndale (FAR00350B) had
resifgned that post due to ill health. The Manchester
Evening News, 5 July 1899: The
Chief Constableship of Birmingham. The Birmingham Watch Committee yesterday
received tabulated statements concerning the applicants for the chief
constableship of the city. There are exactly 50 applicants, and it is a notable
fact that over half of them are gentlemen whose only qualification appears to
be a military training. Among the candidates is Mr Farndale, the chief
constable of York, a nephew of Mr Joseph Farndale (FAR00350B),
the retiring chief. …
The Manchester
Evening News, 8 July 1899 (also
reported in Nottingham
Evening Post): The
vacant Chief Constableship of Birmingham. The judicial sub-committee of the
Birmingham Watch Committee yesterday held a special meeting to consider the
applications – exactly 50 in number – for the office of Chief Constable,
rendered vacant by the resignation of Mr Joseph Farndale (FAR00350B).
The proceedings which were conducted in private, lasted upwards of an hour, and
at the conclusion it was stated that eight gentlemen had been selected to
attend personally before a further meeting of the sub-committee, to be held
Friday next, when the final choice will in all probability be made :- The eight
applicants in question were … Joseph Farndale, 35, Chief Constable of York …
The York
Herald, 10 July 1899:
YORK LIFEBOAT SATURDAY. … The Chief Constable (Mr J T Farndale) in his
uniform, rode at the head of the procession, attended by a couple of
mounted police …
The Manchester
Evening News, 17 July 1899: Appointment
of the Chief Constable for Birmingham. The Birmingham Watch Committee at a
special meeting this morning appointed Mr G H Rafter, Chief Constable of the
City. Mr Rafter who is 42 years of age, has been District Inspector of the
Royal Irish Constabulary at Boyle. The appointment was vacant owing to the
retirement of Mr Joseph Farndale through ill health. Mr Rafter has had 16
years’ Irish police experience.
So on Joseph Farndale’s (FAR00350B)
resignation as Chief Constable of Birmingham through ill health, his nephew,
also Joseph Farndale was shortlisted amongst eight to succeed his uncle, but in
the event Sir Charles Haughton Rafter was appointed.
In May 1899, York
took possession of a splendid new fire engine. The York
Herald, 2 May 1899:
TESTING A NEW FIRE ENGINE IN YORK. Yesterday afternoon, in St George’s
Fields, the power of a new fire engine, which has been supplied to the
town of Thornaby on Tees by Messrs Rose, of Manchester, was tested … The
operations were under the superintendence of the Chief Constable (Mr Farndale)
… the engine is guaranteed to pump 350 gallons per hour, but when under
full pressure it threw 153 gallons more, or a total of 503 gallons per hour
…
The York
Herald, 27 May 1899:
SERVICE AT YORK MINSTER. The 80th birthday of the Queen
was celebrated on Wednesday in York with becoming loyalty … The following
magistrates preceded by the Chief Constable (Mr J Farndale) were the first
of the civic dignitaries to arrive …
The York
Herald, 9 June 1899: A
SECOND CASE. William H A F short, hairdresser and tobacconist, of Clarence
street, York, was summoned for keeping his house and shop for the purpose of
betting... Mr Farndale read the letter which was addressed to the defendant
and signed by the witness, and which requested the defendant to put him
sixpence ‘each way’ on several horses, the names of which were given. It was
stated in the letter that if the money was not enough he would call that night.
In answer to further questions, the witness said the letter was not written for
himself, but he could not explain why he had used the word ‘me’ in the phrase
‘put me sixpence each way’. One of the horses won, but he did not go down that
night or since, because he sent no money. The chief constable said there had
evidently been an enclosure, as the letter referred to money...
The York
Herald, 14 October 1899: INQUEST
AND VERDICT. Mr J R Wood, Coroner for the city, resumed the inquest on Tuesday,
in the Alma Terrace police station, on the body of John Dunn, of 76, Alma
Terrace, who met his death on the night of second inst,
from violence alleged to have been inflicted upon him by Thomas Norman Latham,
a neighbour. Mr K E T Wilkinson appeared for the defence of Latham. Mr.
J Farndale, chief constable, was present during the inquiry. Gertrude
Young, living with her father, a compositor, at 29 Alma Terrace, corroborated
the evidence given by her father on the last occasion. The noise they heard
coming from Latham’s back kitchen on the night of 2nd October was like
struggling, and the banging of pots and things flying about. They rushed out
into the yard, and then heard what sounded like the splitting of a stick. They
heard heavy blows being dealt by someone in Latham's yard...
The Yorkshire
Gazette, 18 November 1899: The
Chief Constable of York (Mr J Farndale) replied. He took the opportunity to
refer to the claims of the wives and families of our soldiers in arms in
South Africa, and calling attention to the Lord Mayor's fund, suggested
that a subscription towards it should be made in that room and that at that
moment. (Applause).
When the Watch
Committee raised Joseph Farndale’s salary, questions were being asked about the
number of applications he was making to apply for chief constableships of other
cities. The councillors
later conceded that they had been too penny pinching to retain leaders of the
right calibre. The Yorkshire Gazette, 9 December 1899: THE CHIEF CONSTABLE’S SALARY. Alderman Coning
having proposed the reception of the Watch Committee's report, questions were
put by Mr Hornsey and Mr. Carter. In replying to Mr Hornsey, the Alderman said he
could not absolutely state how many applications for situations in other towns
had been made by the chief constable. He informed Mr. Carter that the
Council had no guarantee that the chief constable would not apply for an
appointment elsewhere. The report having been received, Alderman Coning
moved its adoption. In supporting the proposed advance of Mr Farndale salary
from £300 to £350 per annum, he said he was a very efficient officer, who
had already saved the city a considerable sum by the way in which he managed
the Police Department. Mr Brown seconded the motion. Mr Hornsey: it is all very
well for Alderman Coning to say he doesn't know how many times the chief
constable has applied for situations elsewhere. Alderman Coning: Do you mean
since he came to York? Mr Hornsey: Yes. Alderman Coning: oh! I thought you
meant in his life (Laughter). Mr Hornsey said they should have a guarantee for
something like permanent service within their public offices. The proper thing
for the chief constable, if he was dissatisfied, to resign, and the Corporation
should then advertise the office. Perhaps they would get someone twice as
competent. He was saying nothing against the chief constable (Laughter). Had
they elected a York man this would not have occurred....
The York
Herald, 30 December 1899: FIRE
AT SALEM CHAPEL, YORK: A fire broke out in the Salem Chapel, York, last
night which was fortunately subdued before it reached very large proportions,
although it caused a considerable amount of damage while it lasted. The
information of the outbreak was conveyed to the central police station by Mr.
Smith of the steam laundry, Aldwark, by telephone at
4.46. The steamer and fire escape were at once sent off in the charge of
Superintendent Gains and Inspector Mason who were subsequently joined by the
chief constable Mr Farndale. On their arrival the brigade found flames
issuing from the gallery windows on the left-hand side of the building. Mr
Smith's men were at work with the hosepipe throwing water on the flames through
the windows. The brigade connected their hose with the hydrant in St Saviourgate, and went into the building and played on the
flames, which they soon succeeded in extinguishing. There are two means of
heating the chapel, one by gas which warms the upper part and the other by hot
water pipes which heats the lower portion, and it is supposed that the fire
originated in some way from the gas apparatus.
1900
Chief Constable of Bradford City Police Force, 1 August
1900 to 31 December 1930
Joseph became Chief
Constable at Bradford in 1900, to succeed Roderick Ross, who had left for
Edinburgh.
See also the Bradford
Police Museum.
The Birmingham
Daily Post, 25 June 1900:
CHIEF CONSTABLE CANDIDATES. The eight candidates selected out of the applicants
for the chief constableship of Bradford have been reduced to six, all of whom
will appear before the watch committee next Friday. They are:... Mr. J
Farndale, chief constable of York;...
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 30 June 1900: Bradford’s
new Chief Constable comes with an excellent reputation. Mr Farndale
has had wide experience at Halifax, Margate, and York; he has passed through
all grades, is a policeman by choice, and is a good disciplinarian without
being a martinet. Having done some smart things himself as a subordinate,
he may be trusted to recognise merit on the part of young officers under his
charge. The Watch Committee’s choice, I firmly believe, will be justified
by a better acquaintance with Mr Farndale.
The Yorkshire
Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 30 June 1900: Mr Joseph Farndale, Chief Constable of York, was yesterday
selected by the Bradford Watch Committee as Chief Constable of that City, in
succession to Mr R Ross, now of Edinburgh. Six selected candidates appeared
before the Committee, there being originally twenty nine applicants. The
salary attached to the office is £500.
The Leeds
Mercury, 30 June 1900: The
Chief Constableship of Bradford. Mr Joseph Farndale, Chief Constable of York,
was yesterday appointed Chief Constable of the city of Bradford, at a salary of
£500 a year, in succession to Mr R Ross, who has become Chief Constable of
Edinburgh. Mr Farndale was born at Wakefield in 1864, and first joined the
Halifax force, where in the course of ten years he advanced to the degree of
detective inspector. In 1888 he was appointed Chief Constable of Margate, and
three years ago became Chief Constable of York.
The York
Herald, 3 July 1900: THE
CHIEF CONSTABLE OF YORK. CONGRATULATIONS AND REGRETS. At the York City Police
Court on Monday the magistrates present were the Lord Mayor, Alderman Rymer and
Mr H Tennant. The Lord Mayor addressing the chief constable, Mr. J Farndale,
said that since they had seen him in that court they had heard that he had
been appointed to the chief constableship of Bradford. They could
congratulate Mr Farndale, although he did not think that they could
congratulate themselves. They could congratulate him on getting the appointment
at Bradford, and upon the able way in which he had discharged his duties in
that court. He had given universal satisfaction to the court in the way he had
conducted himself, and it was with regret that they took leave of him. He hoped
that Mr Farndale would be happy in his new appointment. Mr F J Munby,
magistrates clerk, endorsed the remarks of the Lord Mayor. Mr H Tennant said
that the Lord Mayor had stated the case very aptly as regarded the feelings of
the magistrates. They regretted for their own sakes that Mr Farndale was going
to leave York, but they could not properly say that they regretted that he had
got the appointment at Bradford. Promotion was what people looked forward
to, and they congratulated Mr Farndale on every ground. Mr Wilkinson,
solicitor, said that personally he was very sorry that Mr Farndale was going to
leave them. He had had a great deal to do with the chief constables and they
could take his duties in that court very unpleasant or very pleasant and he was
bound to say that his relations with Mr Farndale had been very amicable. Mr
Farndale said that he naturally felt very proud of the great honour conferred
on him by the authorities of Bradford, and it caused him a great amount of joy,
but his cup of joy had been mixed with a little bitterness in leaving the
ancient City of York. He felt very acutely the remarks made that morning. He
said that he had been guided in performing his work in that court by the
endeavour to do his duty between man and man. The chief constable has received
letters of congratulation from the city members and from a large number of
citizens.
The Whitby
Gazette, 6 July 1900: MR
FARNDALE, OF YORK, APPOINTED. The Bradford Watch Committee on Friday made the
appointment of chief constable for the city, in succession to Mr R Ross, now of
Edinburgh. The original applications numbered 29 and the six selected
candidates were Mr Joseph Farndale, chief constable of York... These attended
before the committee, and Mr Farndale received the appointment, the salary
attached to which is £500. Mr Farndale is 36 years of age and married. He is
a native of Wakefield, and a nephew of the ex chief
constable of Birmingham, who hailed from the Whitby district. He began his
career as an ordinary constable at the age of 20 in the Halifax force. He was
promoted step by step until at the age of 29 he was second in command in that
borough. He then applied for and received the chief constableship of Margate,
where he served for a little over four years. In 1897 he was elected chief
constable of York, where the normal force is one of 78 men, though in special
seasons it is increased to 200.
The Derbyshire
Times and Chesterfield Herald 7 July 1900 (also reported in the Burnley Express, 4 July 1900): Mr Joseph Farndale, Chief Constable of York, a
nephew of the former Chief Constable of Birmingham and Chesterfield, has been
appointed Chief Constable of Bradford. The salary attached to the office is
£500 per annum.
The Leeds
Mercury, 11 July 1900: Bradford
City Council. The Chief Constableship. A meeting of the Bradford City Council
was held yesterday, Mr WE Ackroyd presiding. Mr J Moorhouse, in moving the
minutes of the Watch Committee, which included the appointment of Mr Joseph
Farndale as Chef Constable of Bradford, at a salary of £500 a year, said the
committee felt Mr Farndale would discharge the duties of the office to the
satisfaction of the Council.
Clearly the issue is that the councillors of York were skimping
on pay, and in consequence were not keeping their high officers. The
York Herald, 17 July 1900: THE APPOINTMENT
OF THE CHIEF CONSTABLE. A special meeting of the York City council was held on
Monday evening, to receive and consider the following report of the Watch
Committee: “Your committee have to report that the chief constable has tendered
his resignation, having received the appointment of chief constable at the city
of Bradford. The committee desire to record their high appreciation of
the efficient manner in which Mr Joseph Farndale has discharged the duties of
chief constable of this city, and whilst congratulating him on his promotion to
the chief constable ship of Bradford, they regret that his services will be
lost to the city. The committee recommend that they be authorised to advertise
for a successor to Mr Farndale at a commencing salary of £350 per annum. The
chief constable will be required to act as Chief Inspector of Weights and
Measures”.... Mr Lund proposed, as a further amendment, that the salary offered
be £300 instead of £350. Mr Chapman seconded. The sheriff hoped that the
Corporation would not pass the amendment to come up but would agree to the
larger amount in the hope that they might get a good man, and one who
would remain with them. These frequent changes were very unsatisfactory.
Alderman Purnell pointed out that the regulation of the cabs and carriages and
of the weights and measures had been taken over by the Chief Constable since Mr
Farndale took up the duties. Alderman Coning characterised the proposed
reduction is a false economy, and was understood to say that the chief
constable would be well worth to York the salary that he was receiving at
Bradford. Mr Farndale had saved the city scores of pounds. Alderman Mackay:
Many hundreds. Alderman Border supported the committee. Mr. Robinson said that
taking into account the growth of the city and the increase in its
population he thought it only right that there should be a corresponding
increase in the chief constable salary. He should vote for £350. He, however,
approved of Mr. J S Grey’s suggestion that they should intimate that no
recommendation for another post or increase of salary would be granted for two
years. Mr Weir also supported the committee. On being put to the vote the
amendment was lost. They reported the committee with the omission of the word
‘commencing’ was then passed, and the Council rose.
The York
Herald, 23 July 1900: THE
CHIEF CONSTABLE OF YORK. To the editor of the Yorkshire Herald. Sir, will you
allow me to give expression through your paper to the general opinion which
exists in the city, that the corporation of York have made another serious
mistake in permitting Mr Farndale to accept a more lucrative and
responsible position, when an advance of salary would have secured his
continued services in this city. If I am informed that on each of the three
occasions when Mr Farndale became a candidate for vacant appointments, he had
previously intimated his intention to the Watch Committee, but had received
no encouragement to stir any advance either then, or in the future, and he
was therefore compelled to obtain preferment outside the City of York,
where his services would be better recognised and appreciated. There is
another instance of that short sighted policy of penny wise and pound
foolish, which characterised characterise the actions of the majority of
our councillors. They never know when they have got a good man, and they
had invariably let him slip through their fingers, rather than retain an
efficient officer by paying him the salary his experience and services had can
command elsewhere. I believe Mr Farndale has been nearly three years in
York, and during the whole of that time, peace has reigned between the
Watch Committee and their chief constable, which has never been the case for
years previously, the police as a body have been better looked after, and have
consequently become more efficient, there has been no friction between the
chief and the magistrates, as formerly, and the city has been saved
considerable expense in various ways by Mr Farndale's organisation and
prudent arrangements, when important local functions required extra
attention, or the calling in of assistance from neighbouring towns. This was
never more forcibly exemplified than on the recent visit of the Prince of
Wales, and the other members of the royal party, during the Royal
Agricultural Show. By Mr Farndale’s judicious and ample arrangements,
royalty was never better safeguarded, or better order maintained amongst the
thousands of visitors who attended the show, whilst at least a couple of
hundred pounds was saved to the ratepayers, as compared with previous royal
visits. I know that it is now too late to retain Mr Farndale, but I trust the
experience of the past will have its effect in inducing the council when
appointing his successor to give some reasonable pledge that there would be an
increase of salary, on satisfaction having been given, after a certain length
of time. Yours, a ratepayer. July 21, 1900.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 1 August 1900: Mr
Farndale, the new Chief Constable, commenced his duties in Bradford this
morning, when he took over the command o the city
force.
The Leeds
Mercury, 10 August 1900: Mr
J Farndale, late of York, and now the Chief Constable of Bradford, was formally
introduced to his men yesterday.
The York
Herald, 18 August 1900: We
have received a copy of the following minute, “Her Majesty's Justices of the
Peace, acting in, and for the City of York in meeting, assembled on Monday, the
13th day of August, in the year of our Lord 1900, have pleasure in recording
that during the last three years this city has been well and faithfully served
in the office of Chief Constable by Mr Joseph Farndale, who has shown much forsight, patient ability, and judgement in the discharge
of his duties; and the justices desire to convey to Mr Farndale their best
wishes for his health and happiness in his new sphere of duty.” the Lord Mayor
was in the Chair.
There was a problem
with juvenile crime. The
Leeds Mercury, 20
October 1900: JUVENILE
CRIME IN BRADFORD. AN UNENVIABLE REPUTATION. Bradford is creating an undesirable
reputation just now for juvenile criminality. Of late months the number of
young persons brought before the City Court has been
greatly in increase of anything experienced for some considerable period, and
the Stipendiary Magistrate ha's intimated that he will in future adopt a much
sterner attitude to those who are bought before him, especially after a first
conviction. During the quarter just closed no less than 52 persons under the
age of 16, consisting of 50 boys and 2 girls, have been charged with various
offences, as compared with only five in the previous quarter. Recently
there have been systematic raids on pigeon cotes and places where poultry is
kept, whilst other youths have devoted their attention to stripping the
metal from uninhabited houses and warehouses. The subject has occupied the
serious attention of the Chief Constable (Mr Farndale), and he has come to the
conclusion that the facilities afforded young persons for the disposal of the
stolen property is an important element in the present undesirable condition of
affairs. The law restricts the purchase of smaller quantities of metals, but
this fact notwithstanding, there are brokers and marine store dealers who are
open to take small lots of material from young people, and the police
complain that they have not powered sufficiently comprehensive to deal in the
most effective way with these dealers. To remedy this defect as far as
possible, application is to be made to parliament in the next session cover for
an extension of the powers the city police at present possess, and a clause to
that effect has been included in the bill which the Bradford Corporation is
promoting. By this means it is hoped something will be done to lessen the
number of juvenile criminals in the district; And meanwhile the city Chief
Constable is making what use he can of the powers he now possesses, and
proceedings are to be taken against some dealers who have not, it is thought,
exercised such discretion as is necessary by persons in their position. It is a
fact that today there are in Armley gaol more young criminals from Bradford
than from any other large city centre of population in the West Riding of
Yorkshire.
1901
The 1901
Census, for
2 Undercliffe Lane, Bradford listed Joseph Farndale,
Chief Constable of Police, head, aged 36; Emma Farndale, his wife, aged 38;
Florence Selby Farndale, aged 16; Eveline Farndale, aged 15; Emma Elsie Gladys
Farndale, aged 7; and Luch Woodhams and Maria Mocarthy,
servants.
The new century was
welcomed in at Bradford. The
Bradford Observer, 2
January 1901: In
commemoration of the opening of the twentieth century, the Mayor (Mr W C
Lupton), the members of the City Council, the chief officials of the
Corporation, the city magistrates, and a number of gentlemen representing
institutions of the town, attended Divine service yesterday at Bradford Parish
Church … The procession consisted of a posse of police under Chief Constable
Farndale (who had altogether 120 men on duty in connection with the
proceedings)…
The Bradford
Observer, 19 January 1901: STREET
HAWKING BY CHILDREN. A conference was held at the Bradford Town Hall yesterday
between representatives of the Watch Committee of the city, the Bradford School
Board, and the Bradford Board of Guardians with the object of considering the
best means of putting into force the powers obtained by the Corporation in last
year's bill for regulating street trading by children. The chairman of
the Watch Committee, Mr J Moorhouse presided, and among others present were... and the Chief Constable (Mr Farndale).
Considerable discussion took place as to the most desirable means of attaining
the end in view, that of safeguarding the interests not only of the children,
but also of the general public. It was ultimately resolved that a deputation
representing the three authorities should visit Liverpool, where similar powers
I've been exercised for some time, to inquire into the methods adopted there.
Draft copies of the regulations proposed are to be submitted to the Board of Guardians
and the School Board for approval before being adopted. A suggestion that
children to be dealt with should not in the first instance be taken to a police
station or the Workhouse was favourably received by all the parties.
The Bradford
Observer, 26 March 1901:
THE POLICING OF BRADFORD IN THE PAST CENTURY. PREESENT
POSITION OF THE FORCE.
The first annual report of the Chief Constable, Mr Joseph
Farndale, for the year ended 31st, 1900 December 31st, 1900, begins with an interesting reference to the “watching
and policing of Bradford during the 19th century,” Mr Farndale says:
At the beginning of the century there were no police
but the whole team was watched (at night time), by only seven watchmen,
appointed by the commissioners, and this number was reduced in April of each
year to two. In 1827 six additional watchmen were appointed, due no doubt to
the increasing population, as in 1803 the population was 14,000, whereas in
1821 it had increased to 20,000. This state of things existed until 1847, with
the exception that, the number of watchmen had been increased to 28. In these days
a great economy seems to have been observed in clothing the Watchmen, as will
be seen from a minute passed in 1804: “Resolved that two new coats be provided
for two of the oldest Watchmen and that three of the old coats be appropriated
in repairing for old ones.”
In the year 1831 the so-called police force must
have been in a deplorable state according to the report of a Committee of
Inquiry, which sees says as follows: They “regret to observe that whilst the
population and commerce of this town have rapidly increased, its moral and
municipal discipline is on the decline; and it is their opinion that without an
entire reformation of the police at the town it may become very questionable
whether even property itself may not become deteriorated to a ruinous extent;
and they have but too much reason to apprehend the workings of a system of
fraud on the one hand and negligence and extravagant on the other.”
On the grant of a charter of incorporation in 1847,
a properly organised police force, with a responsible head, was established
under Mr William Leveratt, and the full strength of
it was 65. Mr Leveratt was succeeded by Mr F W
Grantham of Leeds in 1859, and he remained at the head of the force until 1874,
when Mr. James Withers was appointed. He was succeeded by Mr C J Paul in 1894,
who was pensioned in 1898, and Mr R Ross was appointed. The strength of the
force was increased periodically, due to the increase of population, until
1899, when the number was increased from 282 to 354, owing to the expansion of
the city boundaries.
The following table shows a most gratifying
improvement in the conduct of the police force during the past 35 years, and I
think I may fairly claim that at the present time the moral tone of the force
is good and that the efficiency is excellent:
Five years ending
Percentage of offenders reported to watch committee
1870 – 15.44
1875 – 16.10
1880 – 10.83
1885 – 6.51
1890 - 4.93
1895 - 3.90
1900 - 2.97.
The authorised strength of the force on 31st December,
1900, was 554. The average age is 39 ½ years: height 5 foot 10 ½ inches; and
length of service nine years and three months. The variations during the year
were as follows: - 1 Sergeant and 12 constables resigned voluntarily, 6
constables resigned compulsory, 3 constables were dismissed, 1 Sergeant died, 1
constable absconded, and 1 Superintendent, 1 inspector, 2 sergeants and 4
constables were pensioned. The chief Constable, Mr R Ross, was appointed Chief
Constable of Edinburgh.
In addition to 10 army reservists (constables in this
force) who were called up for active service in South Africa in 1899, I have
been called upon during the past year, thus making a total of 11. I'm glad to
say that up to the present time only 1 man has been wounded, and in that case
not seriously. There are 249 members of the force who hold the St. Johns
Ambulance Association certificates; 43 of that number having gained the
medallion. It is my attention to form a class without delay for interacting in
this useful and very necessary work whose members do not hold certificates.
First aid to the injured was rendered on 69 occasions, 8 being cases of
fractures, 32 wounding, 19 fits, 3 burns, one poisoning, and five of other
injuries.
The number of crimes committed during the year, known
to the police, amounted to 747, an increase compared with the previous year of
156. For those offences 473 persons were arrested and 16 proceeded against by
summons, 419 were males and 70 females. The number of robberies perpetrated was
539; the value of the property stolen being £4016 18s 6d, and the property
recovered pounds £165 39s 1d. Comparing these figures with those of last year,
it appears that there is an extraordinary increase in the value of property
stolen; this is not the result of an increase in crime, but is owing to the
fact that the value of the property stolen in four of the robberies exceeded
the total stolen in the 1899, amounting to £1,685. Of this amount £1,450 was
covered by insurance and only entailed the loss upon the owners of £235. In
order to show that the work of the detective department has not been inferior
to that of other years, by deducting the proceeds of these four robberies,
£1685, from the total sum stolen, £4016, it will be seen the percentage of the
property recovered is raised from 41.1 to 76.84, an actual increase upon the
previous year. This percentage of detected robberies is 65.29.
The total number of persons preceded against four non
indictable offences was 3,782, being in comparison with the previous year, a
decrease of 180. Of these 2,357 were males and 845 female; 1,799 were preceded
against by arrest, and 1,903 by summons; 1935 were convicted, and 1,418
discharged, 962 of that number being discharged on payment of costs, 11
committed to industrial schools, and 123 otherwise dealt with.
For drunkenness 463 males were preceded against,
together with 178 females - a total of 641. Of this number 228 were fined or
committed to gaol, 412 were discharged, 340 of this number being discharged on
payment of costs, and one case withdrawn. Compared with the average number of
cases proceeded against during the past five years, this shows an increase of
195.
Of keys 327 sets were deposited at the police office,
the sum of pounds £325 11s 8d being received for rent. 645 lost children were
taken charge of by the police, and subsequently restored to their parents. The
number of premises found insecure during the year was 2,039. A notice was
served upon the occupiers of the premises in all cases, requesting that more
care should be taken when securing them. During the year 7 orders were made to
keep dogs under proper control, and three to destroy dogs. Altogether 518 dogs
were destroyed by the police during the year.
The Halifax
Evening Courier, 4 April 1901: CHIEF
CONSTABLE FARNDALE AND THE MAGISTRATES. Something of a divergence of
sentiment between the magisterial bench and the chief of the police force arose
in Bradford City Police Court yesterday. The magistrates dismissed a charge of
selling drink during prohibited hours. Thereupon Chief Constable Farndale requested
to be informed of their reasons for so deciding; and added the noteworthy
remarks that he had a right to know, in order that he might deal with his men,
and that if the bench did not believe his officers he should have to punish
them. The magistrates declined to state any reasons, but added the case was a
proper one to bring before the court.
The Yorkshire
Evening Post, 4 April 1901: THE
BRADFORD CHIEF CONSTABLE AND THE BENCH. The Chief Constable of Bradford was
clearly trifling with the dignity and authority at the magistrates yesterday
when he demanded reasons for the dismissal of a prosecution against a local
licenced victualler. The grounds on which this official felt justified in
preferring his demand are remarkable. “If you do not,” he said, “believe my
officers, I must necessarily inflict some punishment on them.” Are we to
understand, then, that the Chief Constable rewards or punishes the members of
his force according to the measure of success or the extent of the failure
which attend their prosecutions in the police court? Of course, Mr Farndale,
cannot have intended that this construction should be placed upon his remark,
but it is inevitable all the same. It is needless, of course, to explain that
the dismissal of a case does not necessarily imply the censure on the
prosecution or justify a charge of perjury being laid against the police
officers concerning it. Many reasons enter into a final judgement at the Bench,
and we're glad to see, if only for the officers say sake, that the Bradford
justices yesterday made it clear that they thought the case in question was a
proper one for investigation. Whether this was on so or not, it would never
do to admit the Chief Constable's right when acting as a prosecuting counsel to
cross examining the magistrates as to the reason lying at the back of any
decision they may come to. Such a demand emanating from the other side
would properly be regarded impertinence, and, in the interests of justice cover
it is right and necessary to avoid the very appearance of partiality.
Joseph
Farndale was already looking splendid in his mounted pose. The Bradford Daily Telegraph, 26 April 1901: ACCIDENT TO A MOUNTED POLICE OFFICER. The
inspection of the Bradford City Police Force afternoon at Manningham park was
quite a smart and interesting event. Beautiful spring weather prevailed, and
the park looked well. The green on the left hand side of the main carriage
drive had been staked off for the occasion by a number of flags, and shortly
after two c’clock the men of the force were
marshalled in various sections fronting the main road. The constables were
paraded pending the arrival of the Government Inspector by Sergeant Brown
(Drill instructor to the force). All told they numbered over 300 men. This
included 25 sergeants, 13 inspectors, and superintendents Blenkinsop, Ackroyd,
Bogart, White, and Thompson. Both officers and men were in full uniform, and
presented an imposing appearance. Exceptional pains had been taken to
thoroughly clean all the metal facings, and the citizens of Bradford have
reason to be proud of the smart body of men whose duty it is to patrol the
streets of this city and to protect our lives and belongings. A detachment of
mounted police, in charge of inspector Mattocks, was a feature of the
proceedings, and the detective staff, under the command of Chief Inspector
Abbey, were attired in smart civilian dress and wearing silk hats. The Chief
Constable, Mr Farndale, was the most conspicuous feature of the assembly. He
was mounted on a spirited steed, and was dressed in an attractive uniform, with
a glittering sword hanging by his side. His chapeau was surmounted by plumes.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 14 May 1901:
FIXING BAIL – POWERS OF A CHIEF CONSTABLE. At the City Police Court today Mr
Joseph Farndale, Chief Constable, referred to a case where a man had been
stabbed in the shoulder by a penknife. He said it was reported in the
papers that he had no authority for fixing bail in the case. He asserted that
he had ample authority. The Stipendiary Magistrate (Mr Skidmore): Not in a
serious case. Mr Farndale: I mean to a case of petty misdemeanour. In reply to
Mr Skidmore the Chief Constable said the time of grating bail was on Saturday,
he could not say exactly when. He then proceeded to quote authority, saying
he had the right to fix bail as he did not consider the case a serious one.
He could exercise his discretion. The Stipendiary Magistrate, after consulting
the charge in the case, said it was a felony in which no bail should have been
taken without a magistrate’s authority. He was not blaming the Chief Constable
if it was irregular. Any magistrate would have fixed bail. There were 68
magistrates in Bradford. The matter then dropped.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 24 May 1901: A
BAD HOUSE. CHARGE AGAINST A BRADFORD WOMAN. At the City Court today before
the Stipendiary (Mr Skidmore) and other magistrates, **, respectably dressed
woman, twenty four years of age, of *, was charged with keeping her house as a
brothel … The Chief Constable (Mr Joseph Farndale) said that the prisoner
had kept this house as a brothel since May last year. The police had
received numerous complaints with regard to the conduct of the house, and the
later had recently been under police supervision. Recently a number of men
employed at a local show had frequently visited the prisoner. There was o drink found on the premises. … A fine of £5 and 8s costs
was imposed with an alternative of one month’s imprisonment with hard labour.
In 1901, Joseph
Farndale became involved in a number of cases of fortune tellers ripping off
their clients. The
Bradford Observer, 6 June 1901:
FORTUNE TELLING IN BRADFORD. STRANGE STORY FROM
KNARESBOROUGH.
A curious case of fortune telling came before Mr Skidmore (Stipendiary Magistrate) … on
the evening of May 25th he was visited at his house by two of the
police matrons …
According to the evidence of the former, the
defendant’s first device was to fold two pieces of paper into the form of
diamonds, after which he asked the visitors when and where they were
born. Mr Skidmore: That is a very dangerous question to ask a lady;
I hope you didn’t tell him (laughter). Continuing the witness said that the
defendant wrote the information on the diamond formed papers, and then retired
saying he was going to meditate as to what planet or planets the visitors were
born under. After an absence of about ten minutes, he returned with the
information that witness was born under Venus (laughter). He predicted for
witness a lot of trouble and sickness this year, but said there would be a
change for the better next year. She would he added do well as a lodging house
keeper, and he warned her against taking a voyage on the water until next year;
this year there was an evil aspect over her (laughter). Had the hour of her
call been midnight he would have predicted a voyage abroad next year. He advised
her to transact all her important business on the Thursday directly following a
new moon. He told her that she would have two offers of marriage during the
next year – one from a single man and one from a widower (laughter). Mr
Skidmore: Is the defendant a widower? (renewed laughter).
The witness said she paid the defendant 1s 6d for telling her fortune.
The defendant told her if she preferred to have it written down it would cost
2s 6d.
In cross examination the defendant complained that the
callers had given wrong names.
Mr Skidmore: That doesn’t matter; they were told a
great many things at your house that were wrong.
Defendant: I didn’t send for them.
Mr Skidmore: Nobody says you did.
Defendant: I haven’t been doing much business during
the last three or four years due to my health.
Mr Skidmore: And you will do less after today.
Ellen Whitehouse, a married woman, corroborated the
testimony of the first witness. The defendant predicted for her two offers of
marriage (laughter).
Detective Haigh said he had made inquiries as to the
defendant’s antecedents. He had ascertained that the defendant had drawn
considerably over £1,000 from a gentleman in Knaresborough in this kind of
business – driving away the evil aspect (laughter). He had been carrying on
in this way for sixteen years. Mr Skidmore: I shouldn’t have thought there was
so much money in Knaresborough. Detective Haigh: The gentleman there has ow
become seriously ill, and the doctor says it is all due to this man bothering
him. He is nearly seventy years of age.
In reply to Mr Skidmore, the Chief Constable (Mr
Farndale) aid there was no previous conviction against the defendant for this
kind of offence, but he had been fined for assaulting his wife. He had been
carrying on business for twenty years in Bradford and called himself a
herbalist.
Defendant (to the detective): I haven’t drawn over
£1000 from that man.
Detective Haigh: You have had £1 a week from him for
over twenty years.
Defendant: No, I haven’t had 10s.
Mr Skidmore: You ought not to have had 10d.
Detective Haigh: He has gone down to this gentleman’s
house regularly about once a week, ad has spent the night in boiling down
beats’ hearts and putting it into ginger beer bottles to drive the evil spirits
away. He would spend the night in this way and leave next morning.
Mr Skidmore: I see, a sort of incantation (laughter).
The Chief Constable said the visitors to the
defendant’s house were not confined to any particular class. This Knaresborough
business had been put to an end.
Mr Skidmore (to the defendant): You are a rogue and
a vagabond. That is what the law calls you. If you had been convicted
before you would have been sent to prison for a long term without the option of
a fine. There is no doubt that you have been carrying on this business and
imposing upon His Majesty’s subjects for a long period of time. You will be
fined £10 and 12s costs, or six weeks imprisonment.
The Bradford
Observer, 20 June 1901: At
Bradford City Police Court * was charged with stealing a pair of bathing
drawers, value 6d, the property of the Bradford Corporation. The
Chief Constable (Mr J Farndale) remarked that no fewer than 100 pairs of
drawers had disappeared from one of the baths within the last six weeks.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 28 June 1901: ROBERT’S
NEW UNIFORM. INSPECTION BY THE WATCH COMMITTEE. This afternoon the annual
inspection of the City Police new clothing took place before the Bradford
Watch Committee at the Belle Vue Barracks, Manningham Lane. Upwards of 300
officers and men were drawn up on parade under Chief Constable Joseph Farndale
…
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 21 August 1901: DAY
BY DAY. The report presented by the Chief Constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, at the
annual Brewster Sessions for the city, held today, contains several favourable
features. Taken all round the holders of licences in the city have conducted
their houses well, and the returns as to drunkenness in Bradford compare
favourably with those published for other large towns. According to the report
2.01%, per thousand population were preceded against, as compared with 4.16% at
Leeds, and 3.39 at Sheffield. The figures relating to Bradford, in fact, are
the lowest returns from eight of the largest towns of the country.
The Bradford
Observer, 21 August 1901: At
the Bradford City Police Court yesterday – before ... Patrick Gorman, 18,
millhand of 10 Grafton Street and William Redmond, 17, labour, of 21 Duncan
Street were charged with breaking and entering the premises of number
131 East Parade, occupied by the Board and Case Makers’ Club, and stealing
therefrom 6s 2d in cash and quantity of tobacco and cigarettes. The Chief
Constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, stated that the premises were discovered on
Monday to have been broken into, and the prisoners were found inside with the
stolen property and money in their possession. The prisoners were ordered to
take their trial at the next quarter sessions.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 16 October 1901: POLICE
ORPHANAGE AND HOME. MEETING IN BRADFORD. This afternoon Mrs Boyd Carpenter
addressed a drawing room meeting in the Council Chamber of the Bradford Town
Hall, on behalf of the Northern Police Orphanage and Police Convalescent Home.
The Mayor presided over a very influential gathering, and there were present
the Mayoress, Mr E P Arnold-Foster, Chief Constable Farndale, and Mr Hankinson,
the deputy town clerk. The Mayor in the course of a brief introductory speech,
said that the necessity for the extension of the upper sphere of the home's
usefulness seemed most evident and pressing...
With regard to his
uncle, (also Joseph Farndale (FAR00350B))’s death: The Birmingham
Mail, 23 October 1901: At
a meeting of the Watch Committee today, a letter was read from Mr J Farndale,
Chief Constable at Bradford, thanking the committee for the resolution of
condolence in respect to the death of the late Mr Joseph Farndale.
In
November 1901, the police had to deal with a dodgy bookmaker. The Liverpool Evening Express, 30 November 1901: THE ARREST OF A BRADFORD BOOKMAKER. REMARKABLE
STORY OF ‘KELLY’S LUCK’. Since Saturday last it has been known in Bradford that
the police had suspicions of the dealings of a local sporting man, and careful
inquiries narrowed the suspect down to Mr. Kelly, who resides at Tennyson
Place, off Otley road. He is of Irish descent and a Roman Catholic. He cannot
be much more than 30 to 35 years old, and his unmarried. No man has loomed
larger on the sporting side of Bradford life for some years past, and the
stories of his turf winnings during the last two years have not lacked either
in detail or in breath. He is he has been alleged to have one thousands upon
thousands of pounds, £20,000 here, £10,000 there; Scarcely a big meeting having
passed without some “personally authenticated” story of “Kelly's luck” being
wafted Bradfordwards.... Kelly attended the Manchester November
meeting on Saturday last, and we believe, shortly after leaving the course was
met by Liverpool, London and Bradford detectives. It had come to the knowledge
of the Liverpool police, through a search of Goudie’s rooms, that the
absconding bank clerk had had heavy betting transactions with, or through,
Kelly. Kelly says ‘through’ him. However the police thought there was
sufficient to justify them in asking him for an explanation. This he was by no
means willing to give, in fact, he courted investigations in the frankest
fashion, whilst at the same time stating that what money had come through his
hands from Goudie, who used a false name in transactions, had been accepted in
legitimate fashion, and without any suspicion of the bona fides of the
principal. However he was unable to give details at Manchester, and the
detectives travelled with him to Bradford. Here he laid before them at his
house an account of his transactions, together with telegrams, memoranda, and
books relating thereto. At a subsequent interview at the town hall with the
Chief Constable he promised to give all possible assistance, and his
behaviour throughout his apparently been characterised by straightforwardness.
He made no attempt to leave the town and was seen about there up to and
including Thursday morning. It is believed that Mr Kelly, acting on legal
advice, travelled to London on Thursday morning with the intention of
surrendering to the police and meeting any charges that might be made against
him, should any warrant be issued against him. A Bradford solicitor who is
popularly supposed to have been advising him, certainly travelled to London
that day. By a coincidence, on Thursday the Bradford chief constable, Mr J
Farndale, received telegraphic instructions from Scotland Yard to arrest Kelly.
It was then found that he had gone to London and last evening a further
telegram was received stating that he had been arrested in London. The specific
charge against him is that of ‘uttering forged bankers cheques well knowing
that … etc’. No detail of the charge has been allowed to transpire, but it is
believed that Kelly paid into his account at Bradford one or more of the forged
cheques which Goudie is alleged to have been instrumental in issuing - these
being duly honoured. The sum mentioned in connection with the case is £30,000,
but here again rumour has more to say that any traceable fact. The friends of
Kelly say that these cheques, or cheque as the case may be, were received in
pursuit of legitimate transactions, and this, it is obvious, will be the line
of his defence...
The Leeds
Mercury, 19 December 1901: FIREWORKS
IN A BEDROOM. A dangerous practise was brought to light in a case heard at
Bradford City court yesterday. Ezra Wilkinson, of Town Gate, Wyke, was charged
with keeping 24 pounds of explosives in excess of the quantity permitted.
The Chief Constable, Mr Farndale, said the case was serious, because the
defendant had the explosives, which were fireworks, stored in a bedroom where
boys were sleeping. The defendant, who said he did not know that he was
committing any offence, was fined £2 13s 6d and 8s costs.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 30 December 1901: In
the opinion of one who ought to know there have been fewer cases of drunkenness
in Bradford during the Christmas holidays this year than in other years. On the
whole the streets have been kept fairly orderly, and great credit is due to the
city police for their conduct in the matter. There has been too a complete
absence of crime of a serious nature. This may be accounted for by the strict
vigilance kept by the police on old offenders. The present chief constable, Mr
Joseph Farndale, has taken full advantage of the Prevention of Crimes Act, by which act it is possible to send a man to
prison for 12 months with hard labour on a charge of suspicious loitering,
providing he has a bad character. This measure, judicially used, seems
to be a powerful check on habitual criminality.
1902
The Leeds
Mercury, 6 January 1902: Bradford
Watch Committee recommend that the salary of the Chief Constable (Mr
Farndale) be increased from £500 to £600 per annum, and that by
increases of £50 a year it should advance to a maximum of £800 per annum.
In
1902, Joseph Farndale became involved in a moral crusade against music licences
for the “Singing ‘oils” of Bradford. The Yorkshire Evening Post, 21
January 1902: THE BRADFORD CRUSADE AGAINST MUSIC LICENCES. POPULAR
‘SINGING ‘OILS’. ARGUMENTS FOR AND AGAINST THEM. THE LANDLORDS’ CASE IN THE
IMPENDING BATTLE. Transplant the average Midland “man about town” on a Saturday
night or a bank holiday night, into any of the larger Yorkshire centres of
population, and the first feature of “about town” life which would strike
him would be the public house “singing ‘oil” or free and easy, for he knows
none such. The present writer's first introduction to one was in 1893, at
Sheffield, and the recollection of its melodiousness, its rowdiness, its
rudimentary harmony, and its flood of ale, is yet with him. An atmosphere
reeking with bad tobacco, a room crowded with men and women, in whom the “wine”
with more than mellow, sloppy tables, sloppy songs, vigorous applause, and
vigorous language, that is the sum and substance of the recollection. Since
those days the Yorkshire singing ‘oil has somewhat improved but its main
features remained the same on that night of all nights for alcoholic enjoyment
- Saturday night. There is a little more outward seeming decency, and Bradford,
Leeds, Sheffield... These recollections and reflections are prompted by the
recent action of the Bradford chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale. In
Bradford there are 618 hotels and public houses; 368 of these have music
licences, and 37 other places have similar licences. Altogether 405 music
licences are held in the city. These are two fully fledged musicals, two theatres,
and St. Georges hall and the mechanics institute to contribute to the
legitimate amusement of the week in week out. In addition 10 or a dozen public
houses in the centre of the city run singing ‘oils, some with the concomitant
dignity of a regular playbill, some with millie a scratch selection of paid or
amateur talent …
The Yorkshire
Evening Post, 30 January 1902: THE
SINGING ROOMS OF BRADFORD CRUSADE CONTINUED. THE CHIEF CONSTABLE’S ‘FRESH
IDEAS’. The crusade of the Bradford chief constable against music licences
was resumed at Bradford police court today, before the licencing boards bench,
Mr S P Myers presiding. The interest in the proceedings has greatly subsided
after the refusal at yesterday's sitting to renew the licence of the Granby
hotel one of the best known “singing ‘oils” in the city. At the outset Mr A
Neal said that after duly considering the matter he had decided to ask
permission to state a case with a view to an appeal against the decisions in
regard to the Roebuck Inn in and the Granby. He would hand in the conditions of
the appeal. The appeal was based mainly on the chief constable's third ground
of objection, referring to the breach of the conditions of the licence. The
chairman assented to the course being taken. Alan Boocock, the landlord,
applied for the renewal of this licence, which was objected to by the chief
constable on the grounds that it was structurally unfit and that it was
frequented by people of loose character. Sergeant Thornton gave evidence in
support. He was detailing an incident he saw in October when Mr Neil observed, sotte voce, “Oh, go to church”. The chief constable: “I
shan't go to church. I am here to do my duty. There is no sentiment about
me”. The examination preceded....
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 30 January 1902: BRADFORD
MUSIC LICENCES. MUMEROUS OBJECTIONS SUSTAINED. The Bradford licencing
magistrates were occupied for many hours yesterday in hearing arguments and
evidence for and against the granting of new music licences... To which the
chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, had notified objection …
The Leeds
Mercury, 30 January 1902: the
Bradford licencing justices have made a noticeable reduction in the number
of music licences. Certainly the evidence tended by the chief constable in
many instances seemed conclusive of the contention of “no necessity” or else
that the concert room had not been well conducted. Mr Neil set up an ingenious
plea that Bradford people would have music, and he asked the
magistrates to believe that the songs were of an elevating character. Now
we're rather surprised that no police evidence was given as to the nature of
the songs sung at these establishments. We rather fancy that there would have
been some setoffs to “The heavenly city”, “Daddy”, and “The last chord.” The
statistics of the music halls presented by Mr Farndale showed indisputably that
Bradford has an enormous excess of these places, and that licences must
have at one time been granted without the slightest reservation. The action or
policy of the licencing justices will, we think, meet general approval. During
the coming year no doubt the chief constable will take care to note whether the
houses which have been continued are maintained on the high moral plane which
Mr Neil himself claims should guarantee their existence.
The East
Kent Times and Mail, 12 March 1902: THE
CHIEF CONSTABLE OF BRADFORD, Mr J Farndale, formerly chief of police of
Margate, has been presented with a gold watch by the subordinate members of the
Bradford force, in recognition of his successful endeavours to make the policeman’s lot a happy
one.
Sergeant: When a felon's not engaged in his
employment
Police: His employment,
Sergeant: Or maturing his felonious little plans
Police: Little plans,
Sergeant: His capacity for innocent enjoyment
Police: 'Cent enjoyment
Sergeant: Is just as great as any honest man's
Police: Honest man's.
Sergeant: Our feelings we with difficulty smother
Police: 'Culty smother,
Sergeant: When constabulary duty's to be done
Police: To be done
Sergeant: Ah, take one consideration with another
Police: With another,
Sergeant: A policeman's lot is not a happy one
Police: Ah!
Sergeant & Police: When constabulary duty's to
be done, to be done,
A policeman's lot is not a happy one, happy one
Sergeant: When the enterprising burglar's not
a-burgling
Police: Not a-burgling:
Sergeant: When the cut-throat isn't occupied in
crime
Police: 'Pied in crime,
Sergeant: He loves to hear the little brook
a-gurgling
Police: Brook a-gurgling,
Sergeant: And listen to the merry village chime
Police: Village chime
Sergeant: When the coster's
finished jumping on his mother
Police: On his mother,
Sergeant: He loves to lie a-basking in the sun
Police: In the sun
Sergeant: Ah, take one consideration with another
Police: With another,
Sergeant: A policeman's lot is not a happy one
Police: Ah!
Sergeant & Police: When constabulary duty's to
be done, to be done,
A policeman's lot is not a happy one, happy one.
(The
Pirates of Penzance, Gilbert & Sullivan, 1880)
The
problem of fortune teller ‘scams’ returned in 1902. The Yorkshire Evening Post, 21 March 1902: £300 A YEAR BY TELLING FRTUNES. COPUNSEL APPEARS
FOR THE ‘OCCULTISTS LEAGUE’. BRADFORD GIRL’S ANXIETY TO LOOK INTO THE FUTURE. A
well dressed and somewhat handsome woman named Mrs Annis Wood, of 7 Nelson
Square, Bradford, was before the Bradfords Stipendiary, Mr C Skidmore, this
morning on two charges of unlawfully telling fortunes. The chief
constable, Mr. J Farndale, said that the prosecution was under the Vagrancy Act of 1824. Defendant had lived at the address named for three
years, and her visitors numbered sometimes 100 a day. They were principally
ladies, who called to have their fortunes told. Defendant looked at the her
clients’ hands and then pretended to tell them something about their future.
After that she took their handkerchief, rolled it into a ball, and preceded
with her story. They then paid a fee of a shilling or so, the amount varying
according to the client's circumstances. Mrs Annie Ledger, of 39 Alexander St,
said that on Friday, February 28, she visited the defendant's house, and
arranged to call again on the following Thursday. She went at three o’clock,
and arranged to call again at four o’clock. Defendant answered the door, and
showed her into a room where there were five other ladies. These took their
turns to visit Mrs Wood in another room, and witness, who had taken her wedding
ring off, was the last but one. Witness said the defendant told her she was a
single woman. The Stipendiary: “A very bad shot”. Witness: “She said I should
not be engaged for a very long time. She then asked me if I knew a dark man
with eyes darker than my own who had not been true to me? Then she asked if I
knew another darker than her? I said no. She said he thought the world of me
(laughter) and that I knew it. I told her I did not know that.” Then she said I
was not really strong, that I should have a lot of sickness, but nothing
dangerous. She gave a prescription, one ounce of Epsom salts, an ounce of
magnesium, and announce of essence of peppermint. The Stipendiary: “That is
what they call a love powder”. (Laughter). Witness, proceeding, said , “Then
she said there would be two deaths in the family. I should not bother about
one, but for the other I should have to go into a very deep mourning. The last
death was to bring me some money. She asked me for my handkerchief, which she
rolled up. She next told me that a married man thought more about me than he
did about his wife, and there was no love between them. (Laughter). She said
that if I was not careful it would be a law case. The man would go in for a
divorce, and marry me at once if I was agreeable. She said I should have a very
successful year. I should have money, and things would be brighter all around.
I asked her fee, and she said 1s 6d. I put two single shillings down, and she
took one and returned the other.” Witness added that she went at the
instigation of the police. Cross examined by Mr Earnshaw, barrister, who
appeared for the defendant,: “There was no pressure put upon me by the
defendant. She did not know whether Mrs Wood advertised. She made a note of the
proceedings when she got home. The Stipendiary: “If this is true it is an
offence”. Mr Earnshaw submitted it was not a case of fortune telling. There was
no intention to impose upon people. Palmistry was not illegal, and was not
fortune telling. The act had been framed for the protection of people
against gypsies. This was not an offence under the Act. The Stipendiary held
that if the witness’s story was true an offence had been proved. Mr Earnshaw
put his client into the box. Mrs Wood said that she had been engaged in
clairvoyance for nine years, and in palmistry for four years. Mr Earnshaw, “How
do you know you have the power of clairvoyance?” Defendant: “It is only in
born”. Defendant added that before she took money she advised friends and
neighbours gratuitously. People paid her what they thought fit. She remembered
Mrs Ledger coming. She took her hands and read the lines. “They were very fine
lines,” said the defendant in an impressive voice and with a theatrical air. “I
said,” Defendant went on “you are a married lady.” she said “No”. I said “Be
truthful to me and I will be truthful to you.” I said “you certainly know a
gentleman that works at a large building within 3 minutes of the railway
station. The gentleman before long will have an improvement in his position.”
Defendant added that in the course of her career she had been consulted by a
large number of people, about 25 a day, but not 100. Stipendiary: “A very nice
way of getting a living. It is much easier than mine”. (Laughter). Defendant:
“I only work four days a week. It is not true that I receive fees of a
sovereign or even half a sovereign. I have had girls visit me of 18 years of
age, but none younger. Mr Earnshaw: “Have you done it in the hope of reward?”
Defendant: “A clergyman gets reward”. The chief constable, in answer to the
Stipendiary, said that they estimated the Defendant was making £300 a year. She
had plenty of clients, including carriage people. She told things to young
girls which had caused stress in many respectable Bradford homes. He asked
for the law to be enforced. Stipendiary: “If you come here again and the
offences proved you will be sent to gaol. This morning I shall find you find
you pounds £25 and 12 S costs, or one month. The chief constable was proceeding
to examine his witness in the second case when Mr Earnshaw pleaded guilty. He
asked for time in which to pay the fine. The Stipendiary: “I am pleased to see
she can engage counsel”. Mr Earnshaw: “I am engaged by the Occultist's
League, and not by Mrs wood. On the second charge a fine of £10 and 12s
costs, or 21 days was imposed. The chief constable objected to allowing the
defendant time to pay under the circumstances.
The Sheffield
Evening Telegraph, 22 March 1902: A
LADY PALMIST’S SNUG INCOME. HEAVY PENALTIES. At Bradford yesterday, a well dressed woman named Mrs Annis Wood, of Nelson 7 Nelson
Square, Bradford, was heavily fined for telling fortunes.... Mr
Earnshaw, barrister, who appeared for the accused, submitted that palmistry was
not illegal. The Vagrancy Act of 1824 under which the present prosecution was
laid was not meant to apply to cases like the present one, but was framed more
for the protection of the public against gypsies. The chief constable, Mr
Farndale, said that the defendant had had as many as 100 visitors a day,
including carriage people....
The Yorkshire evening Post, 6 June 1902: At Bradford yesterday the Chief Constable
(Mr Joseph Farndale) stated that a police officer was never off duty until
he left the service.
No extra hours were allowed
in 1902 in Bradford for the Coronation, even though Joseph did not object. The Yorkshire
Evening Post, 20 June 1902: CORONATION
EXTRA HOURS. A REFUSAL AT BRADFORD. OX ROASTING FUNCTION AT IDLE.
VILLAGENEAR WAKEFIELD NOT TO CELEBRATE TILL JULY 5. A special sitting of the
Bradford licencing bench, Mr. J Godwin presiding, was held this morning at the
town hall to consider the application of Mr. A Neil, on behalf of the licenced
victors, for an hour extension, eleven o’clock to twelve midnight, on the
nights of June 26th and 27th. Mr Newell appeared on behalf of the beer sellers.
The chief constable, Mr. J Farndale, said he had no objection to the
application. He was told that the Diamond Jubilee the police had had no
cause of complaint. The Bench refused to grant any extension. Mr Neil
also applied for an all night extension at the New
Inn, Idle, stating that an ox was to be roasted in front of the hotel. The
Bench refused the application.
However the baccarat
players were not tolerated. The
Yorkshire Evening Post,
11 July 1902:
BACCARAT AN UNLAWFUL GAME. … The Chief Constable (Mr J Farndale)
contended that baccarat was an unlawful game wherever it was played
… The Stipendiary (Mr C Skidmore) found that, firstly, the club was a bona fide
club; secondly,. That baccarat was an unlawful game as habitually played there,
and, thirdly, the club was kept for two purposes – social and gambling, and
that constituted a common gaming house …
The folk of Bradford
behaved well for the King’s Coronation. The Bradford
Daily Telegraph. 15 July 1902: After
the holiday for the new King’s coronation: Chief Constable Farndale
expressed himself highly pleased with the conduct of the people yesterday
and assures us that the police were given every assistance. To use his own
words: “It was a good natured and thoroughly well-behaved crowd.” The
streets were certainly well kept yesterday by the force.
The Shields Daily Gazette, 27 September 1902:
POLICEMAN’S EVIDENCE
At Bradford yesterday the magistrates dismissed a
charge brought against a Cleckheaton labourer. The evidence was contradictory
and the Bench decided not to convict.
The Chief Constable (Mr J Farndale): Then, I am to
understand you do not believe my officer?
The Chairman: I don’t like your way of putting the
question. I am sure it is far from us to accuse your officer of speaking an
untruth. It is possible he has got a mistaken idea.
The Chief Constable: Well, sir, I must do my duty. If
I put men into the box whom you cannot believe then I must endeavour to rid the
city of them.
The Chairman: There is a want of corroboration on both
sides.
The Chief Constable: I am not complaining because you
have discharged the prisoner. I am concerned as to the truthfulness of my
officers.
The Chairman: We do not feel justified in convicting.
That is all.
The matter then dropped.
1903
The Yorkshire
Evening Post, 17 February 1903: In
an article about the Halifax police force: … Several men who have, or are
still, filling chief constableships in other towns received their training
under Mr Pole. A notable example is the present Chief Constable of Bradford (Mr
J Farndale), Mr Farndale joined the Halifax borough force as a constable, and
left with the rank of detective inspector, when he was appointed Chief
Constable of Margate.
There was a Pen
Portrait of Joseph Farndale in the
Bradford Weekly Telegraph, Saturday 2 May 1903:
“THE CHIEF”
“TELEGRAPH” PEN PORTRAIT
It may be either fortunate or unfortunate to know Mr
farndale, the gentleman who sits at the Town Hall as Chief Presenter of
crime in the city of Bradford. If he is your friend, you will find him what
the gamins call “OK”, but if you happen to come within the clutches of his
myrmidons of the law you would be less appreciative, perhaps, of this man and
his office. The chief constable has not been with us very long, but he has
gained the respect of the law abiding citizens by his courtesy. He is not too
big a man to oblige. We have known chief constables with a good deal fewer than
300 policemen at their beck and call who fancied all the powers of earth and
heaven were committed to their charge. The swelling importance of such men is
not pleasant to behold. Mr Farndale does not presume upon the dignity of his
position, nor carry out his office despoticly in
any way. He is rather of a modest and retiring disposition than otherwise and does
not have thirst to fill the public eye. We have known some very autocratic
chief constables. They used to exercise their functions mainly in county
divisions and in the old days of quarter sessions. They were very great men
in those days, and all chief constables were great men. The growth of
democracy and the rise of county councils has reduced the awful state of the
chiefs of police. They, for the most part, now do their duty like ordinary men.
There was one of these personages in our youth who rejoiced in the dubious
nickname, when in the army, of “Hellfire Jack”, and who as chief of police
chastened public offenders in the street with a thick oaken stick, and who used
to sit besides the magistrates on the bench and help
the magistrates to administer the law.
Now we lay stress on the contrast between the old
theology, beg pardon, the old style of chief constable, and the new. Mr
Farndale is of the new model. His ideal is that the police should serve
the people with civility and fidelity, and that perfect confidence should
prevail between the force and the public. No man was more deeply hurt than he
at the discredit thrown upon the Constabulary a few months back by the
irregularities. Good relations exist between the chief constable hand and
his men, and while strict he is no martinet. The consequences that we
believe are force is an improvement on what it was a few years back. Mr
Farndale having risen from the ranks, knows the whole round of a policeman's
duties, and he judges his men with the eye of knowledge. The consequence is
that the men had full faith in their chief, and tried to serve him well
accordingly.
Mr Farndale is a quiet, dark man,
who rules his men firmly, who
tries to bring about obedience to the law, and yet is not guilty of straining
the law against the accused person. As a rule a policeman acquires a certain
amount of bias in the pursuit of his calling, and is not sufficiently
inclined to give the prisoner the benefit of the doubt. We have seen no
excessive straining after convictions on the part of Mr Farndale, and this
is the more noteworthy as he has a police ancestry.
Mr Farndale was born at Wakefield
in 1864, and
is the nephew of Mr Joseph Farndale, the late distinguished chief constable
Birmingham. He was educated at Field House Academy, Aberford, and was, early
in life, apprenticed to a chemist. Chemistry, however, had no attraction to
him. Becoming imbued with an ambition to make his mark in police and
detective work, he joined the Halifax police force at the age of 20 as an
ordinary constable. For 10 years he was connected with that force, during which
time he worked his way successfully through the different grades of
Constable, Detective Constable, Sergeant, Inspector, Chief Clerk, and Detective
Inspector. In 1893, when second in command of the Halifax police force,
Mr Farndale was appointed chief constable of Margate, which position he
filled with marked success until 1897, when he was appointed chief constable of
York. From there he came to Bradford, succeeding Mr Roderick Ross
as chief constable in 1900.
During the three years he has been in Bradford, Mr
Farndale has affected many reforms in the police administration of the city,
and now it can truly be said that the force never was in a more efficient
condition. With the example of his uncle before him, he is an enthusiast in
his profession, and it was just that enthusiasm for his work which led to his
rapid promotion in his early days of police service. Among his many smart
pieces of work as a different detective at Halifax was his arrest of a bank
clerk for forgery. The clerk absconded, and with but the slightest
description, Mr Farndale started his pursuit, traced and followed
his man to Littleborough, thence from place to place from Rochdale to Preston
and Saint Helens to near Liverpool, where he ran his quarry to earth. In
the course of his career some thousands of “wanted's”
have passed through his hands, and his keen remembrance of faces once
seen has often led to the arrest of the man wanted even after the lapse of a
considerable time. Himself a smart man, Mr Farndale will tolerate
none but smart men in his force; the sluggard has no sympathy from him,
whereas the man of intelligence and security and is certain sooner or later to
attract his high and receive promotion. Hence it may be that in the minds of
some of his force he is unpopular, but he has the good opinion of the honest
policeman, just as he enjoys the goodwill of the authorities and respectable
portion of the community. Above all, he is a man of principle. His every action
speaks that. From every town and city in which he has laboured Farndale has
brought away some more or less tangible expression of appreciation of his work.
When he went to Margate he found himself confronted with the difficulty of the overcrowding
of passenger steamers. He faced the difficulty with unsparing hand. Some
heavy fines were inflicted, and Mr Farndale today holds a special letter of
thanks from the Board of Trade for the efforts which he made to curtail a
practise which threatened disaster. Similarly the Bradford Temperance Party
and free church council have thanked him publicly for the part paid him
played in bringing about the suppression of the public house music licences.
We cannot conclude this appreciative article without recounting an experience
which he had in his early days at Bradford when he used to parade the
streets at night disguised in order to ascertain for himself whether his men
were doing their duty. Prowling about Westgate in the “wee sma’ hours” he was accosted by a constable, and
peremptorily ordered to “move on or be locked up”. Failing to convince the
constable as to his identity he discreetly “moved on” and we have not heard
since of his zealousness leading him into such methods of supervision.
The Leeds
Mercury, 18 June 1903: LANCASHIRE
POLICE v YORKSHIRE POLICE. The Yorkshire Police and Lancashire Police met
yesterday at Park Ave, Bradford for the annual cricket fixture between the
Constabulary of the two counties. Major Tarry, chief constable of Leeds,
presided over the luncheon and there were also present Colonel Nesbitt, Mr G
(sic) Farndale...
The Sheffield
Daily Telegraph, 18 June 1903: YORKSHIRE
POLICE v LANCASHIRE POLICE. The annual cricket match between Yorkshire and
Lancashire Police was played at Park Avenue yesterday. At the interval there
was a luncheon, at which the Chief Constable of Leeds, presided, and he gave
the toast of “the Northern Police Orphanage and Convalescent Home, Harrogate”.
In doing so he showed that in the three years before last year these matches
had resulted in the handing over of £928 towards the institutions. Last year,
probably on account of the war, it had been impossible to arrange the usual
fixture. The Chief Constable of Bradford, Mr Joseph Farndale, said that it was
not a matter in which chief constables should interfere, but the Northern
District served by the two institutions contained 13,000 policemen; and if
each subscribed a penny a week the two institutions which they designed to
benefit would receive a good income. The match during the afternoon was
brought to an end by incessant rain.
The Bradford
Weekly Telegraph, 10 October 1903: The
ceremony of swearing in Bradford special constables took place before
the stipendiary on Wednesday morning, there being some eighty of these
assistant preservers of the peace. Mr Skidmore was, as usual, presented with a
special constable staff, and he must have quite a big collection of these
implements. Some of the “specials” asked Mr Farndale if they could not be given
keepsakes of this kind, and the chief constable replied that in the case of
riot or other necessity he would take care to arm these citizen Roberts. The
last time the specials were called out was at the time of the Manningham mills
trouble.
Joseph Farndale was
a pioneer of the new use of fingerprints in Bradford. The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 20 October 1903:
IDENTIFYING CRIMINALS
IMPRESSIONS OF FINGER TIPS
NEW SYSTEM ADOPTED IN BRADFORD
Interview with the Chief Constable
The city police authorities have just adopted the new
system of identifying prisoners, and henceforth Bradford miscreants will be
subjected to what is already known as the fingerprinted process. The old
form of identification consisted of taking measurements, and a record of any
marks on the person, together with photograph, but there were many defects in
that system. The measurements were found to be unreliable and other methods
employed were not altogether satisfactory. Often a great deal of valuable time
was wasted in completing investigations regarding a prisoner's previous
convictions, and the methods in which he carried out his work. The new
system of establishing identity by means of a man's fingerprints appears to be
a much more certain and satisfactory method, and from experiments which
have recently been made at Scotland Yard it appears that there is no
possibility of any mistake being made. Although new to Bradford, the system is
by no means a recent invention, for it has for some time been adopted with very
great success in other parts of the world. In China it has been used for many
years with signal success, and in India it is likewise being utilised very
extensively in all branches of the civil service and Police Department.
In the course of an interview with a “Telegraph”
reporter had yesterday with the chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, that
gentleman said that the system was introduced into Scotland Yard some seven
years ago as a means of identifying criminals of the worst type, and the
authorities have so satisfied themselves with its efficiency that they are
encouraging its general adoption. “It was brought to its present state of great
utility,” said the chief constable, “by Mr Henry, the chief Commissioner of
Police. At first it was confined to specially trained officials at the prisons
throughout the country, but now sanction has been given for impressions to
be taken by capable officers in any police force. Now the impressions are
taken and sent by first post to Scotland Yard, and particulars of the man's
identity are forwarded by the following post”
In answer to a question as to the advantage of the new
over the old system Mr Farndale replied: “In the old system the only method of
identifying a prisoner was to show him or his photograph to the officer who had
actually had him in custody, but in the new system once a man's impressions
are secured they remain at the headquarters, Scotland Yard, and are always
available.”
It is a well known fact that
the impressions of the fingers of different persons are never like. The lines
on the tips are part of his individuality, and, what is of more importance to
the police, do not vary in formation at any period of his life.
Speaking on this point the chief constable said: “It
is beyond doubt that there are no two sets of fingerprints identically the
same. It has often been said that in the general design of fingerprints there
are no two fingers alike. The system is the most perfect one. The more you
study it the more satisfied you are regarding its practicability.”
But a work of this description must be of a
complicated nature? interjaculated our representative.
“It would appear so,” replied the chief constable,
£but Mr Henry, of Scotland Yard, has devised a most remarkable system of
classification. It is in the form of a large cabinet, which already contains
the impressions of about 50,000 criminals. These are classified in such a way
that it could be easy for any officer after once becoming acquainted with the
system to go to the cabinet and produce a person’s impressions in the space of
a few seconds.”
The chief constable has studied
the system for a couple of years, and is perfectly satisfied that it is the
best system which has yet been introduced. Last week Detective Inspector Talbot and Sergeant
Nicholson were at Scotland Yard, and these two officers, under the supervision
of the Chief Constable, will have charge of the new system in Bradford. Already
several impressions have been taken and sent to London, where they have been
classified, and the convictions of the prisoner have been returned.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 14 November 1903: A
general rumour has been going about the city lately to the effect that
our account our Chief Constable, Mr. J Farndale, is a candidate for the vacancy
which has occurred at Hull. The other day, in the course of some conversation I
had with “the chief”, I learned that the report is absolutely without
foundation. Mr Farndale is not likely to leave Bradford. He finds our city
most congenial, and what is more, he is most happy with his men, and in fact
finds much to be proud of in the force of which he is the head.
Joseph Farndale was
involved in a furious row with his Detective in November 1903. The Sunderland
Daily Echo and Shipping Gazette, 17 November 1903: STRANGE SCENE IN A POLICE COURT. DETECTIVE AND
THE ACCUSED. A strange and somewhat exciting incident occurred in the Bradford
City police court yesterday, whilst the stipendiary magistrate, Mr Charles
Skidmore, was engaged with a case in which a labourer named John Whelan, of 10
Haworth St, Bradford, charged with loitering in White Abbey Road, Bradford,
with intent to commit a felony. The solicitor whom the prisoner had retained
was unable to be present, and it was therefore decided to remand the case until
today, the stipendiary remarking that Mr Atkinson, the solicitor in question,
was engaged the West Riding police courts, and could not be expected to be in
two places at once. He asked the chief constable, Mr. J Farndale, whether
there was any reason why the prisoner should not have bail, and it was at
this stage that the incident arose. The chief constable was proceeding to speak
when Detective Willoughby, of the city force, rose from his seat and stepped
into the witness box, and said “Allow me, Sir,”. He was going to speak when
the chief constable said: “Willoughby, step out of the box.” Willoughby:
I will do. The chief constable preceded to state that he would take
responsibility of the prisoner being remanded. Detective Willoughby: He is
innocent; and if the case is gone on with I and Detective green will
give evidence in his favour. The chief constable said “Stand down sir.
If you don't if you don't know your position I will teach you. Detective
Willoughby: “You have done”. The stipendiary: “Is there any reason why the
prisoner should not have bailed? I cannot of course, shut my eyes to what
Willoughby has said”. The chief constable said he would agree to bail, and the
prisoner was remanded a £5 bail. The stipendiary to the chief constable: “Of
course you will inquire into this”. The chief constable: “Yes Sir; Very
seriously.” The incident then closed. After the police court proceedings
Willoughby was suspended by the chief constable, and his conduct will be
investigated by the Watch Committee.
The Liverpool
Evening Express, 19 November 1903: BRADFORD
POLICE COURT INCIDENT. Resignation of the two detectives. A further development
has taken place in connection with the protest made in the Bradford City police
court on Monday by two detectives, and the lengthy proceedings there on
Tuesday. Yesterday morning detectives H Willoughby and George Green, who have
served in the city police for 14 years and 13 ½ years respectively, had an
interview with the chief constable, Mr. J Farndale, and both officers
formerly attended their resignations through him to the Watch Committee.
The officers allege that they have been treated unfairly. Willoughby had
been under suspicion since Monday, but Green was on duty up to yesterday
morning.
The Manchester
Evening News, 21 November 1903: THE
BRADFORD POLICE COURT INCIDENT, WATCH COMMITTEE’S INQUIRY. At the meeting of
the Bradford Watch Committee yesterday, Alderman JB Moorhouse presiding, a
full investigation was held into the incident which occurred in the police
court on Monday, and the subsequent prolonged hearing of the charge against a
man named Whelan on Tuesday. It will be remembered that Detective Willoughby,
during the application made from and made by the chief constable cover stepped
into the witness box and told the bench that William was innocent. He
was reproved by the chief constable, Mr. J Farndale, and subsequently
suspended. On Tuesday the magistrates held that the evidence given was too
conflicting to convict Whelan, and he was discharged, after Detective
Willoughby and Detective George Green had given evidence. At that hearing,
however, police constable Petty, in cross examination, stated he had reported
Willoughby for using obscene language on Monday night, when it was alleged he
was the worse for drink. On Wednesday both detectives handed in their
resignation. Willoughby 's letter stated that since a county court action of
July 8 he had been unfairly treated by the chief constable; And Green
alleged that he had met with unfair treatment from police constables Petty and
Kirk. The Watch Committee met at 4:30 PM, and rose at 7:00 when the chief
clerk, Mr F Stevens, communicated the result to the press. The committee
accepted the resignation of both officers forthwith, and passed a
resolution declaring that any allegation of blame or unfairness against the
chief constable was without fault foundation. The committee expressed
their confidence in him and his manner of administrating the department under
his charge. The point of the decision appears to lie in the fact that as
the resignations were accepted, Willoughby and Green will be entitled to their
proportion of pension for the period of their service.
1904
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 6 January 1904:
RAID ON A DISORDERLY HOUSE. Today at Bradford Police Court *, a widow, was
brought up in custody on a charge of keeping a disorderly house. The
Chief Constable (Mr Joe Farndale) stated that the house had been under special
observation since the 12th of last month. Women had been seen to
frequent the house in company with men. The same women had been seen to
take different men on different occasions. The house was raided last night and
a couple was found in the bedroom and another couple in the front room. In
answer to the Stipendiary the Chief Constable said the woman had no husband.
Joseph Farndale’s
moral crusade turned its attention to offending picture postcards in 1904. The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 12 September 1904: Sir, it is about time that Bradford as a
whole should rise in protest at the support which Chief Constable Farndale is
giving to the whimsicalities of the free church council. First, the pubs
(music licences), then the theatres, and now the innocent shopkeeper are
being made to suffer. And all this fuss is being made about an
unoffending picture postcard, which is probably caused more merriment than
anything, published in Bradford during the last 12 months, and that included
the satirical “J....” Possibly Joseph Farndale would like to see the shop
windows of fancy stationers plastered with pictorial postcards depicting him in
his glorious war paint. Forsooth, it would be a subject to hand down to our
children's children, that is if the London comics did not steal the copyright.
We shall next have an objection about policemen smiling when on duty, and
possibly the chiefs thoroughbred may be induced to wear a shirt. I'm afraid
that in this age progress we are mentally on the decline, and it is
certainly a pity that they cannot find detectives something more to do than
patrol the town in a hunt after picture postcards, especially of the kind to
which objection has been taken. There is quite sufficient work for the police
in looking after the thieving fraternity, judging by the number of robberies
that have recently taken place in Bradford. Trusting that the bench, if it
comes to that, will not be guiled by these puritanical crusaders,
believe me to be, J Jackson, Girlington, September 11th, 1904.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 10 September 1904:
BRADFORD’S MORALS. THE SILLY ‘YUMMY YUM’ POSTCARDS.
STRONG ACTION BY THE CHIEF CONSTABLE. SUPRESSION OF PICTURE POSTCARDS.
One
of the supressed postcards
Chief Constable Farndale, the head of the Bradford
police force, has already gained some notoriety for his attitude on certain
questions affecting the morals of the people, but his latest stricture is likely to bring him
increased popularity among the large class of citizens in this connection.
It is to take the form of the suppression of a certain class of picture post
card, which has been largely in demand in the city during the past weeks. In
addition to the one reproduced above there are two other equally ridiculous
postcards purporting to depict “Shipley Glen after dark.” Naturally enough, the
action of the chief constable is being strongly resented by certain retailers
of picture postcards, and in all probability these city magistrates will in a
few days be called upon to decide the issue. Yesterday, visits were paid to
shops by officers of the police force with special instructions from the Chief
Constable to effect the purchase of the complete set from each of the largest
establishments in the centre of the town. At the same time the proprietor or
person in charge was made aware of the mission of the police with the
information that if the sale of these particular cards was discontinued nothing
further would be heard of the matter. In the event of a refusal to comply
with Mr Farndale's request, however, it was made clear that proceedings would
probably be instituted in the police court.
Almost without exception the shopkeepers have failed
to comply with his request, and have decided to fight the matter out. As a
body they maintain that the offending post cards are in no way immoral, but
merely a humorous satire upon the conversation usually heard in these
places after dusk. Regarding the sale of these particular cards some idea of
the extent of their popularity may be gathered from the fact that one dealer
not far from the bottom of Manchester Road declared that his sale for the past
month has averaged many thousands per week. In the course of an interview one
manager remarked: “I don't know what we're coming to. We shall have to show our
marriage licence to the milkman next. It would be far better if Mr Farndale
would only turn his attention to the number of loose women who are allowed to
wander about the streets at night in search of their prey, rather than try
to interfere with the innocent enjoyment to the people.” Another of the
offending shop men was equally indignant, and expressed himself thus: “Why
don't the police stop us from breathing? If we had exposed pictures for sale
which were allowed in other towns there would have been just cause for
complaint, but to seize an innocent little card with a few silly cover
ridiculous suggestions upon it seems to me to be perfectly absurd. I cannot
believe that the common sense of the Bradford Bench will be misled by such
tactics as these.” Generally the impression prevails amongst dealers in picture
postcards that the action of the Chief Constable is an unwarrantable
interference at the privileges of the people, and it will be interesting to
know what will be the ultimate result.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 12 September 1904: FOM
THE SHOPKEEPER’S POINT OF VIEW. Sir, from the shopkeeper 's point of view the
action of the Chief Constable, with regards to suppressing a certain series of
picture postcards, is puritanical in the extreme, and is another
hardship upon a class which already has enough to bear. While rates are
steadily going up in the town, the retail trade is growing worse, and this
action seems to many of us like the thin end of the wedge. Already stationers
and other tradesmen have been injured a good deal by the Bradford Exhibition, and it is hard indeed to find any justification for
this latest action. At the very worst the postcards can only be described as
nonsensical, and I would defy Mr Farndale to show any indecency about them.
Shopkeepers who deal in picture postcards now exercise a great deal of
discretion, and large numbers of those which are exhibited in shop windows on
the Continent are boycotted by retailers here. What these over-efficious authorities would say to some of the series
openly displayed in continental towns I don't know. But I can assure them that
in many cases one or two of the worst of a series imported from abroad is
destroyed. I admit that so far the matter has not become serious, but we regard
this of a warning of stricter measures yet forthcoming. Thanking you in
anticipation for inserting this letter. Yours truly. Indignant shopkeeper.
September 10 1904.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 27 December 1904: BRADFORD
MAN AND HIS RING. Bradford police called this morning, before the Stipendiary,
Mr Skidmore,... Thomas Harrington, 45, labourer, 35 Burlington St, pleaded
guilty to attempting to steal 2s 6d by trick from George Bates. The Chief
Constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, said that on Christmas Eve the prisoner accosted
two young men from Dewsbury and ask them to buy a ring. It was only brass,
and he represented it to be 18 carat gold. The prisoner had been in trouble
29 times previously for all manner of offences. He was now sentenced to two
months imprisonment with hard labour.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 28 July 1904:
WATER TOO COLD FOR SUICIDE. At the Bradford police court this morning, John
Morrell, 56, mill hand, Paisley Street, was charged with attempting to
commit suicide by drowning at the Bradford canal on June 20th. The Chief
Constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, said that the prisoner was seen by two men lying
full length on the canal bank. They afterwards heard a splash and saw him in
the water. He was struggling and trying to get out, and on them rendering
assistance he was rescued. These Stipendiary: “Is this the man who said he
found the water too cold?” The chief constable: “It is Sir”. This Stipendiary:
“He cooled himself, and then wanted to get out. Well, I don't think this is a
case of attempted suicide”. The Chief Constable said that the prisoner had
recently come from America and had been staying with some friends in Bradford,
but they could not undertake to look after him. The prisoner had said he was
sorry for what had happened to, and he had signalled his intention of returning
to America at the earliest opportunity. These Stipendiary: “You will be
discharged. And when you go into the water again take your clothes off, and go
to the baths.”
There was a visit by
the Prince and Princess of Wales to Bradford in 1904. The Bradford
Weekly Telegraph, 7 May 1904: SECOND
EDITION. OUR ROYAL VISITORS. PRINCE AND PRINCESS AT MANNINGHAM MILLS. A TOUR OF
THE INDUSTRIAL HIVE. DEPARTURE FOR LONDON. THEIR HIGHNESSES PLEASED WITH VISIT.
The truth of the old maxim which says something of “the best laid schemes of
mice and men” was fully demonstrated on Friday when the Prince and Princess of
Wales made their return visit to Bradford for the express purpose of inspecting
Manningham Mills. The visit was to be of a strictly private character, and the
edict went forth but the movements of the royal couple yesterday were to be
kept strictly secret. But the fulfilment of the injunction appeared at the
outset to be well nigh possible, and, as everybody
expected, the whole scheme of arrangements leaked out, with the gratifying
results that Bradford had a still further opportunity of testifying
to its strong sense of a spirit of loyalty. To have made any attempts to
decorate the station at which the royal party were to alight would, of course, have
been to at once let out the secret, but this precaution made no difference, for
everybody appeared to be ‘in the know’, and again Bradford extended a hearty
welcome to their Royal Highnesses. The arrival at Frizinghall.
The Princess the Prince and Princess and suite travelled by a special train, to
which was attached the Great Northern Company’s royal saloon. It was due to
arrive at the frizinghall station at 11:19 AM. A few
minutes before that time the Mayor, Alderman David Wade, drove up to the station,
and was followed on the platform by the chief constable, Mr. J Farndale...
The Manchester
Courier, 7 May 1904: ROYALTY
AT BRADFORD. A TOUY ROUND MANNINGHAM MILLS. Evidence of fresh interest taken
by the Prince and Princess of Wales in Bradford industries was afforded
yesterday, when, by arrangement, their Highnesses paid a private visit to
Manningham Mills to see for themselves the various manufacturing processes.
The visit was prompted in the first place by the Princess’s gratification and
to some extent surprise, when specimens of Bradford dress goods were submitted
to her for selection of dress material to wear at the opening of the
Exhibition. So interested was she in the products that she expressed a desire
to see them in the making. The old mayor, Alderman Wade, was consulted, and he
suggested the Manningham Mills. These mills are the largest silk works in
the world, and give employment to 4,000 hands, though of course, the
manufacture of worsted goods is what might be called the staple industry of the
city. In the silk world, however, the name of Lister is supreme, and in
commercial circles of Bradford there was great satisfaction when it became
known that the interest of the Prince and Princess in the City’s industries
would thus be practically displayed. The Royal party travelled in the morning
by special train from Arthington to Frizinghall - a
suburban station of Bradford, where they were met by the Mayor, the Town Clerk,
Mr F Stevens, and the Chief Constable. Mr J Farndale. The mayor had
provided his private carriage for their Highnesses, and rode with them through
Lister Park, where the exhibition is being held, to Manningham Mills...
1905
The Leeds
Mercury, 6 January 1905:
GAVE HER HOUSE KEY TO A STRANGER. ** pleaded not guilty to a charge of stealing
a handbag … The Chief Constable (Mr J Farndale), who prosecuted, said the
bag was stolen from the Roebuck Inn, Nelson Street, where it had been left for
a few minutes by the prosecutor. Suspicion rested on the prisoner, and a
detective visited her house. She denied all knowledge of the stolen property,
but on a search being made the bag was discovered under a bed in her kitchen
…
The Leeds
Mercury, 9 February 1905: CRIME
IN BRADFORD – ANNUAL POLICE REPORT. The annual report of the chief constable
of Bradford, Mr Farndale, to the Bradford City Council for the year 1907
states that in the period the number of crimes committed was 1,188, an increase
compared with the previous year of 39. For these offences 519 persons were
arrested and 21 proceeded against, by summons, 436 were males and 101 females.
Of the persons proceeded against, 103 were committed for trial, 355 were dealt
with summarily; the cases against 78 were withdrawn or dismissed, and one
prisoner died in Leeds gaol while on remand. Although apparently there is an
increase in crime for the year 1904 as compared with the year 1903 of 39
offences, yet there is a decrease in nearly every class of offence except
simple and minor larcenies, larceny from the person, and obtaining goods
etc by false pretences, except in particular the offence of attempting to
commit suicide, the same number being charged in 1904 as in 1983, ie 20.... There are now 313 members of the force who hold
the St. John's ambulance association first aid certificate...
There were further
developments in the use of fingerprints. The Yorkshire
Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 10 February 1905:
IDENTIFICATION BY FINGER PRINTS
BRADFORD EXOPERIENCE
When the Bertillon method of identifying criminals
by the prints of their fingers was first introduced into England much doubt
was expressed as to the efficacy of the system. Those doubts have been to a
great extent dispelled by several recent cases, where criminals have been
identified by and convicted on the evidence of their fingerprints. Additional
arguments in support of the system has been supplied by the Chief Constable of
Bradford, Mr Joseph farndale, in his Annual Report just issued. Mr Farndale
states that this system of identifying criminals has been in operation in
Bradford for the past 18 months, with highly satisfactory results, and he
adds that it has been of valuable assistance in the detection of serious crime.
In one case a finger impression was left on a glass panel which had been broken
in effecting an entry to an office; in another an impression was left on a
small polished medicine chest which had been opened; In a third case an
impression was left on a bathroom door, the top of which had been grasped by
the thief in lowering himself from the ceiling through which he had entered the
premises; in a fourth the thief drank beer from a bottle inside the premises
entered, leaving a finger impression on the bottle. All the articles mentioned
were brought to the Town Hall, where photographs of the impressions were taken
and enlarged. In one instance the impression was found to be identical with a
finger impression of a well known convicted thief,
whose prints were contained in the local record. He was arrested and upon this
and evidence of a circumstantial nature he was committed for trial and
eventually convicted. In other cases the thieves were apprehended upon
circumstantial evidence, which upon their trial was conclusively supported by
further evidence that the fingerprint impressions referred to with theirs, and
they were convicted.
Mr Farndale states that the finger impressions of
prisoners sentenced at any court for indictable offences, that is, offences
against the person, against property with or without violence, forgery etc, are
recorded at the Habitual Criminals Registry at Scotland Yard, where
there are at present records of the impressions of over 100,000 prisoners.
These records are so classified that on the receipt of the impression of a
prisoner two or three minutes is sufficient to ascertain whether or not a
duplicate copy is on the record. If it is, the prisoner’s criminal history
is supplied by return of post. The result is that the courts dealing with old
offenders have their complete criminal history before them. Where no records
are obtainable it may safely be assumed that there has been no previous
conviction of serious crime.
The latest incidents in which the fingerprint
identification has been valuable in Bradford was before the stipendiary
magistrate yesterday. **, 24, labourer, * Maltby St, and * *, 34, labour, *
Dundas St, were charged with stealing wines, cigars etc, value £30, the
property of the Undercliffe Bowling Green Club, and *
was further charged with stealing a quantity of whiskey, tobacco and cigars of
value of £4, the property of **. Both prisoners pleaded guilty.
Mr W G Purnell,
who prosecuted, said that the club premises were broken into between Saturday
January 23rd and Monday 30th. The only clue found was the impression of a
finger on a glass. This was photographed, and compared with a large number
of other fingerprint photographs. As a result of this * was arrested, and from
information which he gave to the police the arrest of * followed.
The Stipendiary, Mr Charles Skidmore, pointed out that
the case showed the value of fingerprints.
* was sentenced to six weeks imprisonment and * was
fined 1s with 28s costs in the two charges against him, or an alternative of 14
days in the first case and 10 days in the second case.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 3 April 1905:
With reference to the rather alarming incident which occurred at Belle Vue
barracks on Friday last during the police inspection, it would appear that the
horse in question scarcely merited the ‘character’ given it by the various
reports which appeared in the press. The Chief Constable has frequently ridden
the animal on parade, and whilst it is a fact that the horse has come down two
or three times that has been owing to the slippery state of the pavements. The
statement that it has thrown the ‘Chief’ appears to be both a libel on the
animal itself and Mr Farndale's horsemanship.
The Leeds
Mercury, 12 May 1905:
THE HUMANE CHIEF CONSTABLE
BRADFORD MAYOR’S NOVEL VIEW
Some 40 chief constables of cities and boroughs in
England and Wales visited Bradford yesterday, the occasion being the annual
meeting of the Chief Constables’ Association.
Prior to the meeting which was held in the town hall,
the Mayor, Alderman W E B Priestley, entertained the visitors and a number of
guests, about 70 gentleman in all, to luncheon in the Great Northern Victoria
hotel.
In submitting the toast of “the Association”, the
Mayor who presided over the function said it had often astonished him that
people should have should regard chief constables as hard, severe, and cruel
men and that they should look askance at the police officers and the heads
of the police force. That was a great pity, because he was sure that the only
wish of the officers was to do all they could for the benefit of the community.
Whilst carrying out the law, they should never forget that the biggest man
was the most humane man. Their greatness did not exist in adhering to the
letter of the law, but being lenient and charitable, and in help helping those
people who were tried in the courts to become men and women. (Hear, hear).
Mr FH Mardlin, Chief
Constable of Northampton, and President of the Association, in responding,
warmly thanked the Mayor for entertaining the members, and mentioned that it
was the first time they had been officially recognised in that manner.
Mr J Farndale, Chief Constable of
Bradford, and president-elect of the association, also responded. He expressed the hope that the
day would come when the public would regard the policeman as their friend.
The Bradford police
set an early speed trap.
The Leeds
Mercury, 22 September 1905:
BRADFORD MOTOR TRAP
STIPENDIARY MAGISTRATE
NEARLY RUN DOWN
A trap for unwary motorists on the Keighly Road, Frizinghall, Bradford, resulted in a prosecution at the
city county court yesterday. The defendant was *, electrical and mechanical
engineer, and he was summoned for driving a motor car at a speed exceeding
20 miles an hour.
The chief constable, Mr Farndale, said the
defendant passed a measured 220 yards at a speed equal to 24 miles, 1,276
yards, an hour. He was timed by two police officers with stopwatches,
who signalled each other with umbrellas. The times varied 4/5 of a
second, and the defendant had been given the benefit of this by a calculation
of the longest time.
The Stipendiary, Mr Skidmore, said the locality was
most dangerous one. He had nearly been run over himself there on the previous
evening.
Inspector Seed, one of the police officers, said there
was other traffic on the road at the time, but no one was in danger.
Mr W G Purnell,
on behalf of the defendant, complained that the distance of 220 yards was much
too short and unfair. He pointed out the considerable difference one second
would make in timing over such a short distance, and expressed the opinion that
the length should be no less than 1/4 of a mile.
The Stipendiary said the police officers would not
have been visible to each other at this point if such a distance had been
taken.
Proceeding, Mr Purnell said the defendant had had
experience of the motor trade generally for eight or nine years, and in the
last three years he had driven all over the United Kingdom without having a
complaint raised against him.
The defendant gave evidence, and estimated the speed
of the car at 18 miles an hour. He admitted that he had no means on the car
of ascertaining its speed. He did not agree with the chief constable that
speed grew with motorists.
Mr North, a Bradford gentleman who was in the car at
the time, also estimated the speed at 18 miles.
The bench convicted, and imposed a fine of £3 and 9s
6d costs.
The Yorkshire
Evening Post, 27 September 1905:
AN IMPORTANT APPOINTMENT
MOTORIST’S EXCUSE FOR ‘SCORCHING’ AT BRADFORD
THE STIPENDIARY MAGISTRATE AND A NEW BY LAW
Two further summonses against motorists for enforcing
the legal limit came on for hearing at the Bradford City court today.
In the first case Mr * on behalf of * pleaded guilty
to exceeding 20 miles an hour.
The chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, said that the
defendant travelled over a distance of an eighth of a mile at a speed of 26
miles an hour... There was however no traffic on the road at the time.
Mr * said that Mister* had a very important
appointment to keep. He was considered to be the most expert driver in
Bradford, and he was sorry that he had broken the law...
The Yorkshire
Evening Post, 30 September 1905:
AN OPPONENT OF MOTOR TRAPS
BRADFORD CHIEF CONSTABNLE AND THE USE OF SPEED
INDICATORS
THE COST OF ADMINISTERING THE ACT
In a report on the regulation of motor traffic in the
city, the Chief Constable of Bradford, Mr. J Farndale, strongly urges the
Watch Committee to apply to the local government board for a regulation
reducing the maximum speed to 12 miles an hour within a radius of 2 miles of
the town hall.
With regard to motor traps, Mr Farndale says: “the
only mode at present of checking the speed is to have a given distance
carefully measured and policemen stationed there with stopwatches to check each
car that travels over the measured ground. This, I think, you will agree, is far
from satisfactory; it has the appearance of setting a trap for the purpose
of securing a conviction, and does not in the least secure any protection for
the public throughout the city.”
Mr Farndale expressed the view that the local
authorities should be in a position to check the speed of motor cars throughout
the whole of their district, and this could be done by having a power to
refuse registration of a car unless fitted with a speed and mileage recorder,
and to prevent the maximum speed being exceeded, by having additional power to
refuse the registration of a car so constructed as to exceed 12 miles an hour
when travelling on level plane on a level plane.
He does not advocate imprisonment for offences under the Motor Car Act ... As to impounding the offender's car he said that
this would be essential if each car were to be required to carry a speed and
mileage recorder, because it would be necessary to submit the car to the court,
in the condition in which it was found when checked by the police....
1906
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 14 February 1906:
CHIEF CONSTABLE’S REPORT.
The Annual Report read by the Chief Constable, Mr. J
Farndale, contained the following passage: There are within your jurisdiction
1,108 licencing full licences for the sale of intoxicating liquors, including
six for premises which have been pulled down, as compared with 1,111 last
year...
The following is a table showing the proportion of
population to each licenced house in Bradford as compared with other county
boroughs:
|
Name of Town |
No of houses licensed |
Population in 1901 |
Proportion of population to each
licensed house |
|
Sheffield |
1,780 |
409,070 |
229 |
|
York |
335 |
77,914 |
232 |
|
Halifax |
428 |
104,916 |
245 |
|
Bradford |
1,108 |
279,767 |
252 |
|
Bristol |
1,307 |
339,066 |
239 |
|
Huddersfield |
345 |
95,047 |
275 |
|
Hull |
825 |
240,259 |
291 |
|
Liverpool |
2,020 |
702,247 |
347 |
|
Leeds |
1,135 |
428,968 |
248 |
|
Middlesbrough |
168 |
91,302 |
543 |
… 19 persons have been proceeded against for being
drunk and refusing to quit licenced premises, or disorderly and refusing to
quit,...
The number of prosecutions during the same for
habitual drunkenness under the Inebriates’ Act 1898, Section 2, was seven, six being males and one being female, of
whom two, a male and a female, were committed to Inebriates’ Homes. …
The Inebriates Act 1898 allowed non-criminal
inebriates to be admitted to reformatories for up to three years if they had
been convicted of drunkenness four times in one year. Criminal inebriates were
also included if they had been convicted of an imprisonable crime. State
inebriate reformatories could be established by the Secretary of State paid for
by the government. Certified inebriate reformatories satisfying the
certification process of the Secretary of State could be created on the
application of the council of any county or borough or of any persons desirous
of establishing an inebriate reformatory. The Habitual Drunkards Act 1879 had
allowed authorities to establish retreats for inebriates but payment by the
inmate was required, thus excluding those working-class drunkards most at risk
and with the least financial support.
Section 2(1) stated: Any person who commits any
of the offences mentioned in the First Schedule to this Act, and who within the
twelve months preceding the date of the commission of the offence has been
convicted summarily at least three times of any offences so mentioned, and who
is a habitual drunkard, shall be liable upon conviction on indictment, or if he
consents to be dealt with summarily on summary conviction, to be detained for a
term not exceeding three years in any certified inebriate reformatory the
managers of which are willing to receive him
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 8 May 1906: THE
BRADFORD WALK. RETURN OF BRITISH ATHLETES FROM ATHENS. The Bradford Walk. ...
The Executive of the Bradford and County Walking Association met last night at
the George hotel, Bradford to discuss the arrangements for the annual walk... A
letter was read from the Chief Constable of Bradford cover Mr. J Farndale,
in which that gentleman stated that there were certain objections to the walk
starting from the centre of the town, and a deputation consisting of... was
appointed to interview Mr Farndale on the matter.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 12 May 1906: BEGGING
NUISANCE IN BRADFORD. WHERE SYMPATHY IS WASTED. This morning, at the City
Police Courts, three blind persons were dealt with or for begging. The
first was *, of the Lodging Houses, charged with soliciting alms in Godwin
Street; the second was *, of George Street, charged with begging in Kirk Gate;
and the other was *, of Jermyn Street, charged with begging in Bank Church. The
Chief Constable stated that this was a serious offence, and a great nuisance in
Bradford. The man * was a vagrant in the true sense of the term. He had had
friends who had left him money which he had squandered in drink. He had been
tried by a committee of the Corporation, but he would do nothing, and
persisted in getting his living in this precarious way. He had been taught
to work at the Blind Institute, but he absolutely refused to follow employment
there. * said that the trade he had been taught to work at was not sufficiently
remunerative. He was sent to gaol for seven days hard labour. In the case of *,
the Chief Constable said he was worthless fellow. He was formerly at Halifax
during the time that he, Mr Farndale, was there. He was not blind then, but had
brought on his blindness by his vicious habits, and had been convicted 16
times for all manner of offences, principally drunkenness. Then he came to
Bradford and had lived on the generous public ever since. He had since many
times can been convicted of drunkenness at Bradford. The Stipendiary asked:
“Why don't you go to the workhouse?” “Because I'd sooner have my liberty”. *
was sent to gaol for 21 days hard labour.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 12 June 1906: BRADFORD
WALKERS ASSOCIATION. A meeting of the Bradford and County Walking Association
was held at the George Hotel last night, Mr J E Hammond presiding. A rough
balance sheet was presented, showing that the recent walk had been financial
success. Votes of thanks were accorded to the officials who had engineered the
event. The Chief Constable of Bradford, Mr. J Farndale, was complemented on the
efficient way in which he had dealt with the crowds that assembled, and votes
of thanks were also accorded to the police officials at Burley, Ilkley and
Otley....
The Leeds
Mercury, 26 December 1906: BRADFORD
WOMAN LOSES HER EYE. TWO MEN IN CUSTODY. At Bradford, yesterday, *, aged 47,
warehouseman of grey street, and *, 27, a carter of George Street, were charged
with inflicting grievous bodily harm on *, wife of *, a tailor of
Waterfield Road. The Chief Constable, Mr Farndale said the parties were more
or less under the influence of drink. * and his wife on invitation visited
the *s in the evening of Monday at 121 George Street and eventually quarrelled,
and * came to the police station to make a complaint. On his return he was told
that his wife had been turned into the backyard and that * had followed her.
The woman was found in such condition that she could not speak, her mouth being
badly injured, and her right eye burst, and was removed to the Infirmary. Mr
Farndale added that the doctors had little hope of saving the eye, which would
probably have to be removed that afternoon and the general state of the
prosecutrix was very precarious. These Stipendiary remanded the prisoners for a
week. Last evening the eye of the unfortunate woman was removed and she was
reported to be still in a serious condition.
1907
The police turned
their attention in 1907 to public dancing regulations. The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 23 January 1907: WHAT
IS A DANCING SCHOOL? BRADFORD
PROSECUTION. A POLICEMAN AND HIS AWKWARD PARTNER. Today at the Bradford Police
Court, * of Carlton house, Little Horton lane, was summoned for using a room
for public dancing without a licence. The Chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale,
said to the proceedings were taken under the Public Health Amendment Act. The stipendiary: I tried this question many years
ago in a test case. Continuing, the chief constable said that the defendant was
the occupier of rooms at the rear of his residence in Little Horton lane. The
rooms were built for the purpose of dancing. Up to last year the defendant was
the holder of a dancing licence in the Collegian Rooms, and he had apparently
transferred his business to these rooms, for which he had no license. The only
difference in the conduct between the two places was that in the case of the
Collegian Rooms, the tickets were sold at the door, and at the rooms in Little
Horton lane, tickets were sold for four nights, any four nights during the
season. Mr. Brown gave instruction in dancing on certain nights in the week,
and the other nights were devoted to public dancing. On one occasion these
rooms were let to a young man connected with a Bradford firm, and this
gentleman sold tickets to the public for dancing. The chief constable argued
that the rooms were not a dancing school within the meaning of the Act,
and should be subjected to the same conditions as other public dancing
institutions. PC Shaw, a probationer, who was sent to those rooms to make
inquiries, said he took out a ticket for four nights, and on the second night
he had to complain of his partner being awkward. The Stipendiary: Perhaps she
thought you were awkward. (Laughter). PC Shaw further stated that on almost
every occasion instruction in dancing was given by Mr. Brown, and new dances
were explained. Mr Alex Neil, who appeared for the defendant, denied that
the room had been used for public dancing, and maintained that the rooms were simply
a dancing school. Mr. Brown then went into the witness box, and made a
remark about the police witness, which was considered offensive. The chief
constable: Did you find anything amiss with the constable while you while at
your rooms? Mr. Brown: no. The chief constable: Why do you go out of your way
to say that the constable was no good? I did not say he was no good. I put it
to you that the reason why you don't take out a licence is because you object
to policemen coming into your rooms? Witness: I do not object to the police
coming, I am master at my own house. They stipendiary in dismissing the case
expressed the opinion that the rooms were dancing rooms to which the public
were promiscuously admitted.
The Public Health Amendment Act 1890 had as its
purpose to promote the public's health and to ensure “more effective provision
... for improving sanitary conditions of towns and populace places in England
and Wales.”
The Manchester
Evening News, 26 January 1907: A
doubtful situation in licencing law, as applied to dancing halls has arisen at
Bradford, Yorkshire, in consequence of a recent ruling by the stipendiary
magistrate, Mr Charles Skidmore. The Chief Constable, Mr. J Farndale, on
Wednesday prosecuted a man for using a room at the rear of his house for the
purpose of public dancing and music without a licence. After hearing the
evidence the Stipendiary dismissed the summons on the ground that the
room was not used promiscuously by the public. The matter was discussed
yesterday by the Watch Committee, and in view of the important bearing such a
decision might have upon the conduct of dancing halls in future, it was decided
to take the opinion of the town clerk, Mr F Stevens, as to whether there were
sufficient facts to warrant an appeal against these type injuries finding.
The Yorkshire
Evening News, 13 February 1907: EX
LEEDS LANDLADY. PIQUANT CASE AT BRADFORD LICENSING SESSIONS. MRS CARR’S
APPLICATION GRANTED. One of the most piquantly interesting cases at the
Bradford City court during the licencing sessions today was that in which *,
widow, applied for a renewal of the licence for all intoxicating liquors at the
Wild Boar in, Bolton Rd. The Chief Constable, Mr. J Farndale, took exception on
the ground of “character not satisfactory and not qualified by law.” Evidence
was called as to the manner in which she had previously conducted public houses
in Leeds - the Roscoe and the Lord Byron.
The Shipley
Times and Express, 15 February 1907: BRADFORD LANDLADY AND HER LICENCE. EXTRAORDINARY REVELATIONS
AT THE SESSIONS. THE MAN IN THE GREEN TIE. A PROMISE OF MARRIAGE AT THE ‘WILD
BOAR’. For a considerable time on Wednesday the city licencing sessions at the
Bradford town hall bought a marked resemblance to the divorce court, for
one out of the score of objections to renewals of licences led to serious
allegations against the character of the applicant. Two of those concerned
in this case were parties to a recent action in Leeds County Court for the
payment of betting money, and in addition, two or three of the witnesses had
figured in a divorce case some years ago. The applicant was *, of the Wild Boar
Inn, Bolton Road, and the renewal of the existing licence was objected to on
the ground: “character not satisfactory and not qualified by law.” Mr. A Willey of Leeds appeared for the applicant. A point of
order. At the outset a legal argument took place between the Chief Constable,
Mr. J Farndale and Mr Willey as to whether the opening statement of Mr Farndale
was in order. Mr Willey submitted that the chief constable should give his
objections on oath in the witness box. He questioned his right in the capacity
of the chief constable to address the court from the solicitors’ table on
behalf of the objector. He should step into the witness box and be subject to
cross examination. The chairman: He is merely opening his case, and not making
a statement of fact. The bench ruled that Mr Farndale was in order in giving
his statement in that way. Mr Farndale then proceeded to state the reason
for objecting to the removal of the licence, and witnesses were afterwards
called. Mr *, who described himself as a turf commission agent, residing in
Livingston Road, Roundhay Road, Leeds, gave evidence as to his relations with
the applicant. He had known her for about 9 years, and they had cohabited as
man and wife for some years. On two occasions, he said he felt he had found *
misconducting herself with other men. Witness had carried on a betting business
for the benefit of the licenced premises. Under cross examination by Mr Willey,
the witness stated that he had no ill feeling against *. He was subpoenaed to
attend court, and, when asked previously to make a written statement concerning
the applicant he had declined. Mr Willey reminded witness of a case at Leeds
county court, in which claim he made against Mrs * respecting betting
transactions was not sustained. Witness returned to answer questions on the
case, objecting to its being tried over again, and was called to order by the
chairman...
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 8 March 1907: CITY
POLICE ATHELETIC CLUB. GYMNASTIC DISPLAY AT THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL. At the Bradford Grammar School last night an
interesting gymnastic display was given by members of the City Police
Athletic Club. Amongst those present were the chairman watch committee,
Alderman H B Priestman, and the Chief Constable, Mr Joseph Farndale …
The Yorkshire
Evening News, 22 March 1907: BRADFORD
CONDITIING HOUSE MANAGER TOO ILL TO APPEAR. FURTHER REMAND. The second phase of
the Bradford conditioning house case should have been gone into at the Bradford
City court today. In this aspect of the affair, *, manager, of 14 Melbourne
Place, Bradford, was charged with embezzling monies of the Bradford
Corporation: £22 10s, on march 14th 1906; £7 10s within the month last past; £7
16s, within six months last past, and £6 on March 14th 1903.... There was the
more grave accusation against *, but the opening there was a sensational
development in an intimation from Mr Gardner, before Mr Newell arrived, that
the prisoner should not be present, as a matter of fact he had not surrender to
his bail. Mr Gardner applied for a further remand, urging as his reason for
this that since appearing before the court the accused had been taken
seriously ill, and his condition continued to be so bad that he would be
unable to attend. He called Dr Rawson, who said he was called to see the
accused about three o’clock this morning, and found him in an unconscious
condition, as the effect of an epileptic seizure. The unconsciousness
continued, and there were two more seizures. The accused was still unconscious
up to nine o’clock this morning. The Stipendiary said that this evidence was
sufficient to warrant a remand. Chief Constable Farndale protested that the
prosecution might have been given notice of this application. Great expense had
been incurred in getting the witness here. The Stipendiary: We don't often get
notice of fits....
The next moral issue
to hit Bradford was the appearance of the actress known as Milo who posed as a
‘living statue’.
Actress Pansy Montague was also known as ‘La Milo’.
Her posings as a statue, on the London stage and in
various music halls around the country, provoked controversy. Pansy
Montague, ‘La Milo’ appeared as a chorus girl and actress in Melbourne from
about 1898, and in 1901 understudied Nellie Stewart in Sydney. In 1905 she
appeared in Melbourne and Sydney for Harry Rickards’ Variety Theatre as ‘The
Modern Milo’ in a series of poses described as a ‘facsimile of Ancient and
Modern Statuary and Sculpture’. In 1906 she went to England and Europe,
where through again exhibiting herself clad in next to naught, she revived
public interest in ‘living statues’. In the first half of 1907 the Bishop
of London called for the London Council to ban living statues, but at the
Coventry Pageant in August 1907 La Milo enacted the role of Lady Godiva, riding
a horse for five hours in pink ‘fleshings’ under
chiffon drapery and lengthy wig before 150 000 spectators including at least
one incensed clergyman. In 1908 at the Grand Hotel, Birmingham, she went
through a ceremony of marriage to a man going by the name of Ferdinand Eggena. In 1910, the couple appeared in court along with a
motor car agent named Percy Easton, the three accused of fraudulently deceiving
a jeweller. Pansy Montague claimed that over the past three years, she had
earned five thousand pounds a year and could buy herself all the jewels she
wanted. She and Easton were acquitted, but Eggena was
convicted. La Milo consistently laid claim to the integrity of her art, in
1910 stating ‘There has been much opposition, much unkind criticism, which has
pained me very much, and in a half-night of weeping has made me determine to
give the whole business up. The only thing that has prevented me from doing so
is the conscientious conviction that I am in the right.’ From late 1914
she toured America to packed houses. Soon after, however, she disappeared from
the historical record; possibly, the war interrupted the supply of white paint
which was made for her by a German chemist to simulate marble.
The Yorkshire
Evening News, 6 May 1907: LIVING
STATUARY. SUGGESTED PROHIBIUTION OF LA MILO AT BRADFORD. SHOCKINGITIS. There is
still a good deal of uncertainty as to whether there will be a general
prohibition of the living statuary exhibition throughout the country. La
Milo, the premier posseuse, is billed to appear
at Bradford this week, at the Empire, and on Saturday morning the chairman of
the Watch Committee, Alderman H B Priestman, had a conference with the Chief
Constable, Mr Joseph Farndale who this morning, at a meeting of the Fire
Brigade and Licencing Committee, which has charge of such matters, will
report against the exhibitions of living statuary, and suggest prohibition. It
is probable that the licencing committee will resolve to visit the Empire
before coming to any decision.
The Hull
Daily Mail, 7 May 1907: LA
MILO AT BRADFORD. CITY FATHERS WITNESS AND APPROVE. The Empire theatre,
Bradford, where la Milo is appearing this week, was crowded to excess at
both performances last night. It so happened that a meeting of the
Corporation Fire Brigade and Licencing Committee had been fixed for yesterday
morning, when the subject of the agitation was informally mentioned, and the
committee decided to see the performance before coming to any decision.
Accordingly, at the first performance last night, the members of the
committee and some of their wives, together with the Chief Constable, Mr
Farndale, were in attendance, when poses given by La Milo were Hebe,
Canova’s Venus, the Venus de Milo, Sappho, Maidenhood, and Diana. At the
close of her performance La Milo was accorded a hearty reception. Subsequently
the members of the fire brigade and licencing committee held another meeting at
the town hall, under the presidency of Alderman James freeman, when, after
brief consideration of what they had seen, they passed unanimously the
following resolution: “The committee visited the empire theatre, and witnessed
the whole of the performance, and they observed no breach of the rules and
regulations in force in the city with regard to dramatic licences.” La
Milo’s performance will, therefore, be continued in Bradford.
In June 1901, Joseph
Farndale made new law on the sale of beer to children under age, when he
appealed a decision of the Stipendiary Magistrate to the appeal court. The appeal established that beer could only be sold
to children under 14 (ostensibly for their parents!) as bottled beer, and not
in an empty bottle which was then corked and sealed by the publican. It is
interesting to remember that Joseph’s father was a publican in Wakefield!
The Shipley
Times and Express, 14 June 1907: CASE
ORDERED TO BE REHEARD. Yesterday
the Kings Bench Divisional Court, composed of the Lord Chief Justice, and
Justices Darling and A T Lawrence, heard an appeal in the case of Farndale v
Dillon, from the decision of the Bradford Justices. It was a prosecution
under the Intoxicating
Liquor (Sale to Children) Act against
Hy Dillon, having sent his son, under 14 years of age, to the White Swan Inn,
Lamb Lane, in January last, with a pint bottle which was not corked for half a
pint of beer. The boy came out with a bottle which was corked but not sealed.
The magistrates dismissed the information on the ground that the father had
done all he could. Their lordships sent the case back for rehearing.
There were concerns
about the sale of alcohol to under age children. The Bolton
Evening News, 14 June 1907: THE
SALE OF BEER TO CHILDREN. AN INTERESTING APPEAL. In the King's Bench Division yesterday the
case of Farndale v Dillon came before the Divisional Court on appeal from a
decision of the stipendiary magistrate Bradford. The Stipendiary dismissed an
information charging Henry Dillon with having, contrary to the provisions of
the Intoxicating
Liquor (Sale to Children) Act sent
his son, a boy under the age of 14 years, to the White Swan Inn, Lamb Lane, for
half a pint of beer, in a bottle which was not corked concealed as required by the Act. The Stipendiary, in
giving his decision, held that the Respondent in sending a vessel capable of
being corked and sealed, had done all he could to observe the law, that the
offence, if any, was attributable to the person who supplied the beer. The
Stipendiary, in the case which he stated, further said that the solicitor for
the Appellant raised the point that the respondent contravened the Act by
sending for half a pint of beer at all, but that point was not raised before
the bench they did not give any decision upon it. Mr Scarlett, who appeared for
the Appellant submitted that the Act prohibited the sale of less than one
reputed pint and that the liquor must be in a corked and sealed vessel. The
Lord Chief Justice said that he had doubts about the case, and he thought it
ought to go back to be heard on the merits. Mr Justice Darling concurred. He
was at the opinion that the reasons given for refusing to convict were bad.
The section under which the information was laid subjected to a penalty any
person knowingly sending a child under the age of 14 for any description of
intoxicating liquor, “excepting such intoxicating liquors as are sold or
delivered in corked and sealed vessels in quantities not less than one reputed
pint for consumption off the premises only.”
It appeared to him that the exception referred to bottled liquors, such
as bottled beer, bottled stout, or other liquors sold in bottles, and that a
person was not entitled to send a child with an empty bottle for beer. Mr
Justice A T Lawrence concurred. The case was accordingly remitted to be
heard and determined on its merits.
The Intoxicating Liquor (Sale to Children) Act 1901
was an Act to prevent the sale of Intoxicating Liquor to Children. The Act
prohibited the sale of alcohol to children under 14 years of age, unless it was
in a pint measure that was corked and sealed for consumption off the premises.
The Warminster
& Westbury Journal, 21 December 1907: SUPPLYING BEER TO CHILDREN. TO THE EDITOR OF THE WARMINSTER
AMND WESTBURY JOURNAL. Sir, I have with some surprise the statement under the
heading “Supplying beer to children: new police order in Wiltshire”, in your
issue on Saturday last. As it is calculated to convey an utterly erroneous
impression, perhaps you would be so kind as to allow me to state the actual
position. The whole matter is due to a misunderstanding of what occurred in
the case of Farndale v Dillon. A man was charged with sending his child
under 14 years of age with a pint bottle for half a pint of beer, and although
an offence had undoubtedly been committed, the minimum under the Act being a
reputed pint, the magistrates did not convict, and the prosecutor appealed. The
case was properly sent back to the magistrates to be determined on its
merits, but in the course of the judgement, Mr Justice Darling casually
expressed his opinion that licences could only serve children under 14 with bottled
ale, stout etc and then the Act did not allow them to supply a pint or more
of draught beer even if the vessel were corked and sealed at the time of the
sale. This personal opinion was not the force of law, and it is entirely
contrary to the intention of the Act, and the practise since 1901. It cannot be
too widely known that it is not a legal decision, but what lawyers call an
obiter dictum. A very eminent firm of London solicitors, and others who
have been consulted, ridicule such a contention, and the London Licenced
Victuallers Central Board has decided, in case of a conviction in London, to
take the case to appeal. Yours faithfully. Cecil H V Weston. Secretary West
Wiltshire Licenced Victuallers and Beer Retailers Protection Association. Star
Inn, Warminster, December 16th 1907.
The Nottingham
Evening Post, 28 December 1907: CHILDREN
AND PUBLIC HOUSES. AN IMPORTANT DECISION. Mr Muscat, appearing for the
Commissioner of Police, at Tower Bridge, made an important statement in a case
against Richard Simmons of the Coopers Arms public house, Bermondsey, of
selling beer in an improperly sealed bottle to a child under 14 years. He said
that an entirely new interpretation had been placed upon section one of
the Intoxicating
Liquor (Sale to Children) Act by a special case, Farndale v Dillon, which was decided by the divisional court on June
13th last. In that case it was decided by the Lord Chief Justice, Mr Justice
Darling, and Mr Justice Lawrence, that a parent was not entitled to send a
child under 14 years of age with a bottle, or any other receptacle, for
intoxicating liquor, even though the publican afterwards corked it and
re sealed it. By analogy it seemed to be manifest that the necessary
sequence from the reasoning in that case was that the publican could not in
law sell anything but the ordinary bottled beer or other bottles
intoxicating liquor to children under 14 years of age. The Commissioner of
Police has been advised that such was the effect of the decision, and he
proposed to put it into operation. The bottom of the Act, so to speak, has been
knocked out by various decisions protecting this the public and, but this was
entirely new law, and would be acted upon at the first opportunity. The present
case was not one upon which the point could be conveniently raised...
The Evening
Dispatch, 28 December 1907: NEW
VIEW OF THE INTOXICATING LIQUORS ACT. An important decision of the London
Commissioner of Police regarding licencing prosecutions was announced by Mr
Muskett, at the Tower Bridge police court yesterday. The case was one in which
Richard Simmons, of the Cooper's Arms, Thomas Street, was summoned for selling
beer in an appropriate improperly sealed bottle to a child under 14 years of
age. Mr Muskett said an entirely new interpretation had been placed upon
section two of the Intoxicating
Liquor (Sale to Children) Act by a
special case - Farndale v Dillon ...
A tailor’s excuse
for the discovery of betting slips all over his shop. The Yorkshire
Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 15 June 1907: A TAILOR AND HIS CUSTOMERS. NOVEL DEFENCE IN A BETTING CASE.
A novel defence was offered at Bradford yesterday by *, 53, tailor, 34 East
Parade, who is charged with keeping the premises namely 2 Johnson Fold,
Bradford, for the purpose of betting. A youth named *, of 196, Ripon
Street, was also summoned for being found in a common gaming house,
namely, 2 Johnson Fold. * pleaded not guilty. * pleaded guilty. The Chief
Constable, Mr. J Farndale said that the premises at Johnson Fold was
practically unfurnished. The house was kept under observation for three days
and during that time 36 people were seen to enter the place. The premises were
searched under a warrant and the two defendants were found there. The room
contained sporting literature, betting slips relating to over 100 bets,
while Wilkinson had over £100 in his possession. Wilkinson made a novel
defence. He was, he said, a tailor by trade, and the betting slips must
have fallen from the pockets of customers’ coats he was repairing. The
Stipendiary: “Do you find money as well?” Defendant: “Well I have found money.
Once I found a diamond ring.” In regard to the sporting literature, he said he
read such papers daily. Sporting papers to were to be found in every tailor
shop in the country. He confessed he did a little betting on his own account,
but he was not a bookmaker, because he was not sufficiently educated.
The Yorkshire
Evening Post, 5 October 1907: BRADFORD’S
HONOUR. THE ROYAL CHARTER READ TODAY. BIG CROWDS ASSEMBLE AT THE TOWN HALL. An
immense crowd thronged the town hall square, Bradford, at noon today, to hear a
public reading by the Lord Mayor, Alderman J Godwin, of the royal charter
granting the dignity of a Lord Mayorality for the
city. A special platform had been erected at the main entrance to the town
hall and from this the Lord Mayor, attended by the lady mayoress, Mrs Godwin,
members of the City Council, magistrates, representatives of public body, and
chief civic officials read the patent. Stationed before the platform were
attachments from the Royal Field Artillery, from the Bradford Moor barracks...
about 200 police, under the chief constable, Mr Farndale, kept order. After the
proceedings the veterans were paraded before the Lord Mayor who briefly
addressed them and made each a gift of a sovereign.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 9 December 1907: BRADFORD
EX WARRANT OFFICER’S DEATH. Prior to the commencement of the ordinary business
of the Bradford Police Court this morning the stipendiary magistrate, Mr
Skidmore, referred to the death of ex Warrant Officer George Flood. His worship
appeared to be deeply affected by the death of his old bodyguard and
said he desired to give a public expression of regret on behalf of himself and
his colleagues on the bench at the untimely death of Flood. It was only the other
day that Flood was in court attending to his duties. He was an efficient
officer, and most obliging and attentive to his duties. He only retired a few
weeks ago on a well earned pension, and he, the
stipendiary, knew how difficult it was for him to sever himself from the duties
of the court. Left behind him is a bright example that was worthy of being
followed by all members of the force. They all desired to tender to his widow
and her family their deepest sympathy. The Chief Constable, Mr Joseph Farndale,
thanked these stipendiary for his kindly interest in one of the rank and file
of the force, and promised to do his utmost to see that the widow and his
family should receive every consideration.
The Yorkshire
Evening News, 24 December 1907: POLICE
BETS. THE ONLY EVIDENCE AGAINST A PUBLICAN. BRADFORD CASE DISMISSED. William E
Penn, landlord of the Virginia Tavern, Thornbury, was summoned at Bradford
today for using the house for betting purposes, for suffering gaming,
and for conducting a lottery, the stake being 2s 8d in money. An officer said
that he went and laid bets with the defendant for the races at Kempton Park and
Birmingham. On one occasion on the invitation of a man, he played dominoes and
last, paying for a pint of beer. “Tip-it” was also played for pints of beer in
the presence of the landlord. In one instance he won a pool of 2s 8d and it was
spent in beer and cigars. Mr A Neill, for the defendant, “When you did not find
any betting you made some?” “Yes”. “Do you know the whole house was searched
for slips of paper except the bedroom in which the landlady was lying ill?”
“Yes”. “Did you take part in this dirty business?” Chief Constable Farndale: “I
protest. We're here to do our duty, and I ask for the protection of the court.”
The chairman: “Put it some other way Mr Neil”. Mr Neil: “I cannot find any
other language to describe it in. You will agree with me at the finish that it
is a dirty business, more than dirty”. The chairman, after the bench had
retired, said the only evidence against the defendant was that of the two
officers called and on examination these officers showed themselves to have
been accomplices, and as it was not customary to grant a conviction in such
circumstances the case would be dismissed.
1908
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 6 January 1908: THE
NEW PROBATION ACT. FIRST APPLICATION AT BRADFORD. The Chief Constable, Mr
Joseph Farndale, made an application to at the city police court today, under
the new Probation
Act. It
was in respect to a charge of felony against a woolcomber,
named *, 33, 54 beck St. The chief constable stated that this was a case of a
man giving way to crime through the influence of drink, and he asked that
the prisoner should be put on probation for 12 months. The magistrates, however,
inflicted a fine of 25s, including costs, with the alternative of 1 months
imprisonment with hard labour.
The Yorkshire
Evening Post, 21 January 1908: FUNERAL
OF MR CHARLES SKIDMORE. LATE BRADFORD STIPENDIARY. INTERMENT AT DARLINGTON
TODAY. The funeral of the late stipendiary magistrate for Bradford, Mr
Charles Skidmore, took place today, at West Cemetery, Darlington. Prior to
the removal of the coffin to Midland station, a Bradford service was held at St
Luke's church, Victor Road, Manningham, the Reverend Canon Macguinness, vicar,
the Reverend HG Jones, vicar of Bradford, and the Reverand W S Smith taking part.
There was a large congregation, the principal mourners being... After the
service the lengthy procession, marshalled by the chief constable, Mr. J
Farndale, proceeded along Manningham lane...
The Bolton
Evening News, 8 February 1908: DRUNK
AT SIXTEEN. A youth of 16, named *, described as a labourer, was charged at
Bradford City police caught on Friday with being drunk on the licenced
premises of the Bull's Head, also with refusing to quit and with doing wilful
damage. The youth was turned out of the in more than once, and on the last
occasion he smashed a window and taking a heavy file from his pocket threatened
to use it up on the barman. Kelly told the barman that he was 18 years of age.
The chief constable, Mr. J Farndale, informed the bench that the lad's
mother was an inmate at the union workhouse at Middlesbrough, and prisoner
himself had for some time been in a home at Birmingham. He appeared to have
done himself no good since his liberation from the home. “I'm afraid to, Sir,
he comes from bad stock”, said Mr farndale. Mr Amos Crabtree, presiding
magistrate, said that as prisoner had no home in the city the bench could not
very well put him under their probation officer. Fines amounting to 9s 6d and
the costs were imposed, the alternative of each being seven days in prison.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 18 February 1908: BRADFORD
POLICE INSPECTION. ‘MARCH PAST’ IN PEEL PARK. Colonel Eden, His Majesty's
Inspector of Police, visited Bradford today for the purpose of conducting an
inspection at the city police force. The visit was made on the occasion of an
imposing spectacle in Peel Park. Some 337 officers and men were marshalled
on parade in the park, these including 236 constables, 32 sergeants, 15
inspectors, 3 superintendents and the chief constable. As Colonel Eden
presented himself at the park, he was given a general salute in review order.
The police band, under the leadership of Inspector Chapman, discoursed suitable
selections of music, and a march past was admirably carried out. The chief
constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, was in command, and he was assisted by...
the inspection was very successful, and Colonel Eden complimented the
chief constable and the Watch Committee on the general efficiency of the force.
The mounted men in their new uniform presented a very smart appearance.
The Inspector subsequently attended the Town Hall and examined the books there,
and afterwards remarked that they were exceedingly well kept. The Government
Inspector appeared to be highly satisfied with everything he saw. Col Eden
and was afterwards entertained at lunch and by the Lord Mayor, Mr. J E Fawcett.
The Daily
News (London), 19 February 1908: NEW
LICENSING POINT. Mr Marsham, the Bow Street magistrate, yesterday imposed a
penalty of 5s and costs on a publican in Bedfordbury
for selling to a child intoxicating liquor “not being such as is sold in
cooked or sealed bottles.” the police admitted this was a test case
following the decision of the High Court in Farndale v Dillon. The view
there expressed by the judges, said Mr Muskett, was that children should only
be served with liquids commonly sold in bottles already corked. Mr Marsham said
he must be bound by the decision of the High Court, but he offered to state a
case if desired.
Joseph and Emma’s
Silver Wedding.
The Halifax
Evening Courier, 13 May 1908:
CHIEF CONSTABLE FARNDALE’S SILVER WEDDING. POLICEMEN
AND A PRESENT. UNPLEASANT SUGGESTIONS.
A meeting of the Bradford City council was held at the
Town Hall yesterday afternoon, the Lord Mayor, Mr. J E Fawcett, presiding.
Alderman H B Priestman, chairman of the Watch Committee, said he had received a
number of questions from Mr C A Glide with regard to a proposed silver wedding
gift to the chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale. He had hoped that Mr
Glide would not have pressed these questions, but he was left with no
alternative but to answer them. The questions were as follows.
1. Is it a fact that a proposed presentation to the
chief constable on his silver wedding has been arranged by two inspectors in
the central division, in consultation with the three divisional
superintendents?
2. Have the police constables expressed any desire to
subscribe to the fund and were they represented on the committee?
3. Have the police constables been informed by the
superintendents that £25 has to be raised, and that constables have to have to
subscribe 1s, sergeants 2s 6d, inspectors 3s 6d, and superintendents 5s each.
4. Have the constables been informed that they may pay
their subscriptions at 3d per week, and are the men being practically coerced
into subscribing for the fund by the publication of a list in which those who
do not subscribe are conspicuous by their absence?
In answer to these questions, Alderman Priestman said
that the presentation fund had been originated in the manner suggested. The two
inspectors and the three superintendents were the natural leaders in a movement
like this. The policemen had shown a distinct desire to contribute, and
there had been a pretty general response, and they were represented on the
committee which had control at the fund. But the men had not been informed that
£25 had had to be raised. Nor had any scale of contributions being fixed. It
was true that one month had been allowed during which payments might be made,
but there had been absolutely no coercion whatever, and he was convinced
from inquiries he had made that the matter was entirely voluntary. He
very much regretted that the movement should be spoiled by such imputations
being cast upon it. (Applause).
Mr. J H Palls asked if it were not a fact that the
list had been drawn up in such a way that each man's number and name was put
down on the sheet. It had not been left in the ordinary way for a man who
desired to contribute to put down his own name. Alderman Priestman said he had
not seen such a sheet as had been described. The matter then dropped. Chief
constable Farndale is well known in Halifax, where he was formally inspector.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 30 May 1908: Last
week I mentioned the purchase by Mr C E Horner a chocolate pom, loved by Mrs
Farndale. The dog has been named “Moneymaker”, and Mr Horner entered it for the
annual show of the London Pomerianian club, held this
week in the London Scottish Drill Hall, Buckingham Gate. It was successful in
coming out on top, winning first in both classes; also the clubs five guinea
rose bowl for best chocolate puppy over 6 and under 12 months old, the five
guinea challenge cup for the best puppy in the show, and the silver special for
best chocolate in novice class. He is thought to be the best male dog of this
colour brought out for years.
The Bradford Daily Telegraph, 1
June 1908:
BRADFORD’S CHIEF CONSTABLE. SILVER WEDDING
CELEBRATIONS. PRESENTATIOMNS FROM
MAGISTRATES AND CITY POLICE.
On the occasion of the silver wedding of the Chief
Constable of Bradford and Mrs Farndale presentations from the city magistrates
in the city police took place in the town hall today.
Mr Farndale was married at Leeds on June 1st 1883, to
Emma, the
second daughter of the late Mr. Williams Selby, a highly respected citizen of
Wakefield. Mr Farndale was educated at Fieldhouse Academy, Aberford, where he
studied chemistry and law. Having decided to take up policing as a career he
joined the Halifax force in 1883, passing through the various grades two second
in command. He was appointed chief magistrate of Margate, serving there for
nearly five years. After serving at York he was appointed to the chief
constable ship of Bradford in 1901.
In making the presentation on behalf of the
magistrates this morning the Lord Mayor, Mr J F Fawcett, congratulated Mr
and Mrs Farndale on the auspicious event, and trusted they would have very
many happy years of happy married life. The chief constable had been with them
for some time and had won the respect of all the magistrates of the city, and
bearing in mind the work he had done, they desired to tend to him and to Mrs
Farndale the two vases as a token of appreciation. He sincerely hoped
the Chief Constable's work might decrease rather than increase, and from the
course of legislation there was going to be some reform in dealing with crime,
and he should think that Mr Farndale and Alderman Priestman, Chairman of the
Watch Committee, would probably be able to say that things were so satisfactory
in the city that they could make a reduction in the police force. They had
certainly been free from serious trouble for some time, but they make no
boast too much.
Alderman Priestman also tended his congratulations and
said that during his chairmanship of the Watch Committee he had received most
loyal support from the chief constable. The tone of the force as a whole was
set by him, and he was endeavouring to keep it as high as possible....
Replying to the presentation which was then made by
the Lord Mayor, Mr Farndale said that during the 25 years of his police career
he had been in many difficulties, but none so great as the present one, for he
did not know how to thank them enough. When he came to Bradford he tried to
maintain the principles that had guided his career; justice without fear or
favour, tempered when possible with mercy. He referred to the difficulties
of his post, and said he had tried to do his duty not only as a Chief Constable
but as a man. (Applause). It was being discovered that the old system of
punishment was practically the way to nowhere, and they must adopt some
other system of reform if they hoped to do something for those unfortunate
people who broke the law and came into the courts of justice. Especially
mentioning Mr. David Wade, to whom the idea of the presentation was due, he
thank them again for their kindness and appreciation.
The presentation made to Mr and Mrs Farndale by the
city police, consisted of a solid silver epergne, having four holders for
flowers, with three sweet baskets hanging from the centre piece; a pair
of vases to match. All are of perfectly plain, polished silver, decorated
by rich piercings. The inscription richly engraved near the top of the epergne
is as follows: “Presented by the Bradford City Police to the Chief Constable
and Mrs Farndale to commemorate their silver wedding 1883 - June 1st - 1906”
and arms of the city on the reverse side while the monogram of Mr Farndale is
richly charred on the foot. This presentation piece was designed and
manufactured by Fattorini and sons, art and gold silversmiths, Bradford.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 1 June 1908: FATTORINI
& SONS, BRADFORD. HAVE NOW ON VIEW. … Solid silver centrepiece, having four
flower vases and three sweet dishes, with pair flower vases to match, presented
by the Bradford City police to the Chief Constable J Farndale Esquire and Mrs
farndale. To commemorate their silver wedding. 1883 - June 1st - 1908.
The Wakefield
ad West Riding Herald, 6 June 1908: Mr
Joseph Farndale, who is a native of Wakefield, being the son of a Thornes Lane
licenced victualler, celebrated his silver wedding on Monday. He was
married on the 1st of June 1883, to Emma, second daughter of the late Mr.
Williams Selby, Wakefield. During the day, Mr and Mrs Farndale with the
recipients of many handsome presents, including two solid silver dessert stands
from the city judges, and a solid silver epergne and pair of vases from the
members of the city police force. Mr Farndale’s uncle was chief constable of
Birmingham.
In August 1908,
Joseph Farndale became involved in a significant murder case.
The Yorkshire
Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 10 August 1908: THE BRADFORD MURDER CHARGE. ACCUSED AGAIN IN THE
DOCK. John William Ellwood, 44, agent, of Edinburgh Street, Bradford, who is charged
with the murder of Mr Thomas Wilkinson, Legrams
Lane, Bradford, cashier to Messrs Fieldhouse and Jarrett, dyers and sizers,
appeared on remand at the Bradford City court on Saturday, when the case was
further adjourned. During the short time prisoner was in the dock he seemed
quite composed and smiled as he descended to the cells. The chief constable,
Mr. J Farndale, asked the magistrates to remand Elwood further until Saturday
next. It was hoped that the coroner's inquiry would be completed before that
date, when the date could be fixed to suit the conveniences of the court, and
the representative of the public prosecutor....
The Shipley
Times and Express, 21 August 1908: THE
BRADFORD OFFICE MURDER. ELLWOOD BEFORE THE MAGISTRATES. STARTLING DEVELOPMENT.
THE PRISONER IDENTIFIED. STORY OF THE CRIME RETOLD. After three months, John
William Ellwood, 41, insurance agent, of 68 Edinburgh Street, Listerhills, appeared again on Tuesday at the Bradford City
court on the charge of causing the death of Thomas Wilkinson at the office of
Messrs Fieldhouse and Jarrett in Swaize Street on
July 31st. The facts of the case are now fairly well known, for at the inquest
last week, when a verdict of wilful murder was brought against the prisoner,
the evidence was fully gone into. Witnesses told how they saw a man, thought
to be Ellwood, enter the office with a parcel like a poker with which the
crime was committed; how they saw him leave with without it, and walk away.
The evidence as to his subsequent movements was somewhat conflicting, but he is
believed to have been seen in various parts of the city, and have spoken about
the crime to his friends and acquaintances. The charge was that he did
feloniously, wilfully, and of his malice of forethought, kill and murder Thomas
Wilkinson on July 31st 1908. The accommodation of the court was filled to
its uttermost and hundreds were unable to gain admission. The prisoner’s wife
and a few friends lingered in the corridors outside. The magistrates present
were the stipendiary, Mr H W W Wilberforce ,... Mr CF
Lowenthall, of London, prosecuted. He was instructed
by Mr H R Watling. The police were represented by the Chief Constable Mr. J
Farndale and Chief Detective Inspector Tolbert. Mr C L Atkinson again defended.
Prisoner still unconcerned. When prisoner stepped into the dock he seemed as
unconcerned as ever. Throughout he appeared not to notice the people, who
were eyeing him keenly. He took a seat in the dock and made himself as
comfortable as possible...
The Nottingham
Evening Post, 26 August 1908: OFFICE
MURDER. FURTHER EVIDENCE IN THE BRADFORD CASE. WHAT THE POST MORTEM REVEALED.
PRISONER COMMITTED FOR TRIAL. A further stage was reached in the Bradford
office murder trial today, when the Bradford City police court before the
stipendiary magistrate, Mr H W W Wilberforce, John
William Ellwood, aged 44, insurance agent, was brought up on remand, charged
with the wilful murder of Thomas Wilkinson, cashier, on Friday July 31st, at
the town office of messrs Fieldhouse and Jarrett,
dyers.... the first witness called was Dr FW Eurish
Hony, physician at Bradford royal infirmary, who spoke to conducting a post
mortem examining of the body of Wilkinson on Saturday, August 1st. He said
there were five small bruises on the back of the left wrist, a small bruise
over the right kneecap, and a slight abrasion, with bruising, on the right
middle finger, the last joint of which was fractured. There were also various
other comparatively slight injuries over the right shoulder and over the bridge
of the nose. Two inches above the right ear there was a triangular wound,
penetrating to the covering of the bone behind, and below this was a ragged
incision, penetrating almost to the bone. Other lacerations and incisions were
minutely described by the witness, who said that in many cases the bone was
splintered …Dr William Wrangham, Chief Police Surgeon, also
confirmed the post mortem evidence. He stated that he had received from Chief
Detective Inspector Talbot, the brown suit, produced, there were twelve blood
stains on the coat, two on the trousers, and one on the cap. The poker produced
also bore splashes and stains of blood... Detective Sergeant Knowles said that
on the night of July 31st, he received a communication from the witness
Pollard, and in inconsequence that he went to Edinburgh Street to the house
occupied by the prisoner at 4:45 the following morning. Prisoner, who was only
partly dressed, came downstairs and opened the door. Having admitted the
witness he went upstairs to finish dressing. The detective cautioned him, and
said, “I am going to apprehend you on suspicion of causing the death of Thomas
Wilkinson.” he replied, “I know nothing about it, but I will go with you.” The
witness then took him into custody, and removed him to the town hall, where he
was identified from among seven other prisoners by the witness Pollard. After
he had been thus identified the witness again cautioned and charged him, with
causing the death of Wilkinson. He made no reply, but folded his arms and
dropped his head. At this point the prisoner, who had been accommodated with a
seat in the dock, leaned forward to the witness and said “Speak the truth,
you liar!” Mr Atkinson his solicitor advised the prisoner to make no
comment on the evidence. Continuing, Detective Knowles said that in the town
hall he searched the prisoner and found amongst other properties 6 penny
postage stamps. These were all in one piece...
1909
The Yorkshire
Evening Post, 1 January 1909: INCREASED
CRIME IN BRADFORD. RECORDER’S COMMENTS AT THE QUARTER SESSIONS TODAY. The
Bradford quarter sessions were commenced today, before the Recorder, Mr T R D
Wright, who was accompanied on the bench by the Lord Mayor, Mr. James Hill, and
the Chief Constable, Mr. J Farndale. In his charge to the grand jury, the
Recorder regretted that the return of the Chief Constable regarding the
indictable offences, and the number of persons procedeed
against in the past quarter, showed a considerable increase in both respects.
During the corresponding quarter of 80 days in the previous year, 310
indictable offences were reported, whilst in the past quarter of 84 days, the
number was 407, an increase of 97. The number of persons proceeded against
during the corresponding quarter in the previous year was 111, while in the
past quarter the number was 168, an increase of 57. Those figures were
regrettable, and the only comfort one could draw from them was that none of the
offences were serious. One hopes that the average might be made-up by a
corresponding decrease in the returns during the next quarter.
The Greenock
Telegraph and Clyde Shipping Gazette, 19 May 1909: COMMITTEE ON PETROLEUM SPIRIT. The departmental committee on petroleum
spirit met yesterday at the Home Office. Mr. J Farndale, Chief Constable at the
city of Bradford, gave details of the working of the Petroleum Acts in Bradford. Mr C MacDonald, chief officer under the
Petroleum Act for the city of Glasgow, considered that officers of the local
authority should have power to seize patrol petroleum spirit under certain
circumstances without warrant. Captain J de C Hamilton RN, retired, Chief
Officer of the London Fire Brigade, gave the requirements which he considered
should be insisted upon for petroleum spirit tank waggons etc.
There was a
tradition that a new Lord Mayor extended clemency to the first person to appear
before him. The
Leeds Mercury, 18
November 1909: The
Lord Mayor of Bradford, Alderman W Land, made his official appearance at the
City Court yesterday, where he was welcomed by Mr W A Whitehead,
senior magistrate.... after the Chief Constable, Mr Joseph Farndale had spoken
on behalf of the police, the Lord Mayor said that whilst they as magistrates
were always determined to preserve justice and order, they were always desirous
of tendering mercy in the administration of justice. In accordance with
custom, his lordship extended clemency to the first person to appear before
him, a tramp, who had been arrested for begging, and was discharged.
1911
The Leeds
Mercury, 10 February 1911: Chief
Constable’s Salary. The Watch Committee of Bradford Corporation have decided to
recommend the City Council to fix the maximum salary of the Chief Constable,
Mr Joseph Farndale, at £1,000 per annum to be reached by four annual advances
of £50 each, dating from April 1st next.
The Lancashire
Evening Post, 15 February 1911: Bradford
City Council, yesterday, decided to increase the salary of the Chief Constable
(Mr Joseph Farndale) from £800 a year in four annual increments of £50 to
£1,000 a year, the first advance taking effect from April 1st next.
The Leeds
Mercury, 27 March 1911: BRADFORD
CITY’S WELCOME. SALOONS ALREADY IN DEMAND FOR THE CRYSTAL PALACE FINAL. After
the match at Bramall lane, the Bradford City players were entertained to
dinner at the Grand Hotel, Sheffield. There was the usual round of toasts, and
everyone was in a jubilant mood. The players afterwards drove to the Midland
station in taxis and reached Bradford at 10:00. It was anticipated that there
would be a large crowd to receive them, but the members of the city party were
astonished to find that the station was packed from wall to wall with
thousands of enthusiasts, the crowd overflowing into Forster square and
Market Street. Chief Constable Farndale was on the scene with a large posse
of police, who managed to preserve a narrow gangway view. Some of the
players were completely overwhelmed by the boisterous attentions of their
supporters, and were completely swallowed up in the crowd....
The 1911
Census, for
4 Fagley Villas, Ecclesfield, Bradford listed Joseph Farndale, head, 46, Chief
Constable, City of Bradford; Emma Farndale, wife, 48 (27 years married);
Florence Farndale, 26; Eveline Farndale, 25; and Loffie
Gibson, general domestic servant.
A Wesleyan Mission
was picked up for unlicensed singing and dancing. The Yorkshire
Post, 5 April 1911: SATURDAY
CONCERTS IN A WESLEYAN MISSION HALL. A MUSIC LICENCE NECESSARY. Mr H W W Wilberforce, the Bradford stipendiary magistrate,
yesterday gave his decision in the case of the Chief Constable of Bradford v
Thomas Pratt. He said that it was alleged the defendant, as honorary
secretary, was using for the public music and singing, on Saturday evenings and
without a licence, a room in the Eastbrook hall, Bradford, a place registered
for religious service. The programmes showed that the concerts were opened
with hymn and prayer, and were followed by vocal and instrumental numbers,
reproductions of songs, cinemagraphic views, and even
occasional humorous items. The charge for admission was small, and there was no
attempt to secure a profit. The concerts were organised by Mr Nield, the
Wesleyan missioner, to provide innocent and
elevating recreation for persons who otherwise might be spending their Saturday
evenings in a worse fashion. The effort was laudable in the extreme, and
neither that court nor the justices who had been dealing with licences, would
put any undue obstacle in its way. The question he had to deal with was
whether this was public singing and entertainment of such character as to
require a licence? It had been contended that these concerts were really
religious services, but after seeing the programme, he did not think that could
be sustained in the ordinary meaning of the word ‘religious’. He hopes that
the application for a licence in this case would be nothing more than a mere
formality, but it must be gone through, if the concerts were to be
continued. Mr Trewavas, who appeared for the defendant, asked for an
adjournment, so the committee could consider their position. He did not
apprehend that the decision of the stipendiary would be challenged, but they
were near the end of their concert season, and it would be necessary to consult
the committee having charge of them, Eastbrook Hall not being run by one man,
but by a committee. The stipendiary said he had no doubt if it was decided
to apply for a licence in future, the chief constable would be willing to
withdraw the case on payment of costs, as it would be undesirable to record a
conviction against such a place. The Chief Constable, Mr Farndale, said
that the promoters of similar concepts in connection with other places of
worship in the city secured occasional licences, and the defendant could do the
same. These stipendiary said that if the defendant continued the concerts
during the period of adjournment without a licence, he would do so at his own
risk. Mr Trewavas said he would take the adjournment, which was granted for
three weeks.
The Nottingham
and Midland Catholic News, 27 May 1911: Chief Constable on its Practicability. The Bradford Chief
Constable, Mr. James (sic, recte, Joseph) Farndale,
writes: “I have read with much interest the copy of the proposed scheme of
the Leeds Catholic Diocesan Association for the aftercare of discharged
prisoners, and am of opinion that the object of the Association is most
commendable, while the method on which it is proposed to work appears to me
very practical,. I sincerely wish you success in the good work, and feel that
your efforts cannot fail to be productive of much good.
When his daughter married on 7
June 1911,
Joseph and Emma lived at Fagley Villas, Eccleshill, Bradford: PICKLES-FARNDALE.
June 7th, at Eccleshill Parish Church, by the Rev R B McKee, Charles, third son
of the late Benjamin Pickles, and Mrs Pickles, of Whetley
Lane, to Florence Selby, eldest daughter of Mr Joseph Farndale, Chief
Constable, and Mrs Farndale, of Fagley Villas, Eccleshill. At home, Jessamine
Lodge, Undercliffe, August 2nd and 3rd. (Leeds Mercury, 12 June 1911).
The Leeds
Mercury, 24 June 1911: BRADFORD’s
DECORATIONS. The decorations and illuminations at Bradford have
attracted so many visitors from the neighbouring towns that the Decorations
Committee has decided to continue the arrangements throughout next week.
Competent authorities who have seen the efforts of other towns, assert that the
Bradford show is without doubt the finest in the provinces. The fairy fountain
in Forster square has been the chief obstacle object of admiration. On Monday
and Tuesday the bands in the town hall and Forster square will be continued,
and if public appreciation is sufficiently promising the entertainment will be
extended over the remainder of the week. In spite of the immense crowds which
assembled to see the coronation procession in Bradford, the various ambulance
brigades in the city only dealt with about 50 cases of fainting. The chief
constable, Mr. J Farndale, stated that the conduct of the crowds was
exemplary, and he is more than satisfied. Between 11:00 in the morning and
midnight there was not a single arrest of any description. The tramway receipts
amounted to £1,394, as compared with a record of £1,700 for Easter Monday.
The Leeds
Mercury, 14 August 1911: A
police constable named *, aged 25 years, of Dawson Street, Bradford, was
charged at the Bradford City court on Saturday with being drunk, and having assaulted
an old lady named Nanny Wood, 75 years of age, of Belloc Street. The Chief
Constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, said that *, who had only been a constable for
some five months, went home about 10:00 on the night of August 4th in a drunken
condition. He addressed the woman Wood in foul language, and struck her on the
chest. * was fined 2s 6d and 7s costs on the charge of drunkenness and £1 and
11s costs for the assault. On the request of the Chief Constable he was also
suspended from duty until a meeting of the police authority.
The Leeds
Mercury, 14 November 1911: BRADFORD.
Chief Constable’s disclaimer. The chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, made an
explanation at the Bradford City court yesterday with regard to the recent lottery
prosecution in connection with the Glyde Beaumont Legal Defence Fund. He
pointed out that it had been alleged that the prosecution had singled out this
case from amongst others for some vindictive motive. He was in London when the
case was heard or he would have explained the procedure of the police in these
cases. Many similar cases came to their notice, but when the police drew
attention the attention of the promoters to the fact that they were illegal they
were usually withdrawn. Those responsible for the lottery in question did
not stop it when requested to do so; hence the subsequent proceedings.
These stipendiary magistrate said it was unfortunate that it was not stated at
the time, as he understood that the defendant had not been one. The chief
constable replied to that that was so; The lady who sold the tickets had not
been warned, but the promoters had.
1912
There was some
mockery when Joseph Farndale laid down the rules for boxing competitions in
Bradford. The
Yorkshire Post and Leeds
Intelligencer, 10 February 1912: BOXING
CONTESTS IN BRADFORD. THE CHIEF CONSTABLE AND TRAINING IN PUBLIC HOUSES. … Boxing, 3 August 1912: It would also appear that the proposed
Blakeborough Kelly contest is to prove a fizzle. Up to the time of writing no
purse offers have come to hand, and it has now been set forth that the men are prepared
to engage in a contest under Mr Farndale's rules. Ye gods! What are we
coming to when we are already asked to submit to the absurdity of seeing a
grand sport like boxing carried out under the rules as laid down by a man who
knows nothing of the game? It is more than an absurdity. It is monstrously
unfair and totally un-English.
Whist drives were
illegal. The
Yorkshire Post and Leeds
Intelligencer, 29 August 1912: THE
CHIEF CONSTABLE OF BRADFORD AND WHIST DRIVES. Mr J Farndale, has intimated that
the decision that whist drives at which prizes are played for are illegal
will be acted upon in the city. As a consequence those interested in whist
drives, which were very popular last winter, have formed a committee for mutual
defence.
1913
The Leeds
Mercury, 28 January 1913: YORKSHIRE
AUTO CLUB DINNER. CHIEF CONSTABLE AND RESTRICTIONS. A LEEDS WINDFALL. The
annual dinner of the Yorkshire Automobile Club was held at the Queens Hotel,
Leeds last night and the gathering was a very large and influential one....
Pulling the strings. Alderman Wiley proposed the toast of “the visitors” in the
characteristic speech. He said he was not going to pat the policeman on the
back at all. He thought they were an unmitigated nuisance to the motorist, and
he did not forget the chief constable who, pulled the strings of the
prosecutions to which the iniquitous motorists were from time to time subjected.
Mr. J Farndale, the chief constable of Bradford, responded to the toast.
There were problems
with a carters’ strike in Bradford in 1913. The Leeds
Mercury, 29 May 1913: STRIKE
SCENES AT BRADFORD. ENTIRE POLICE FORCE CALLED OUT. STREET FIGHTING. LORD MAYOR
OFFERS MEDIATION. HOPES OF SETTLEMENT.
Extraordinary scenes in connection with the carters strikes at
Bradford created a ferment of excitement in the principal streets of the
city during the greater part of yesterday. The Lord Mayor, who had been out of
town, returned to Bradford yesterday afternoon, and at once took steps with a
view to bringing about a settlement of the dispute. First he had a meeting at
the town hall with representatives of the Bradford Horse Owners Association,
coal merchants and consumers’ association, the Chamber of Trade and the
cooperative society. These gentlemen placed their views before his lordship,
and practically agreed to accept him as arbitrator. Later on, four
representatives of the Carter Union attended, and the Lord Mayor asked them if
they were prepared to leave the matter in his hands. The reply was in the
affirmative, providing the terms offered were reasonable….
POLICE PRECAUTIONS. CONVOYS OF DRAYS ESCORTED THROUGH
EXCITED CROWDS. When it became evident that there was a danger of a prolonged
struggle, the chief constable, Mr. J Farndale, in response to an urgent
request from mill owners and merchants, made arrangements for an
elaborate system of convoying goods under police escort from the railway
station depots to their respective destinations. The appearance in the streets
of large numbers of mounted police and the parade of practically the
whole of the police force caused large crowds to gather, and these increased in
the afternoon when the half holiday released
thousands of shopkeepers and shop assistants. Indeed the strikers were
completely outnumbered by sightseers who had turned out to see the fun. At
ten o’clock processions of drays, chiefly laden with provisions, left the
various depots. In each case mounted police led the way, and also
brought up the rear, whilst a single file of police on foot walked on each side
of the vehicles. There was a good deal of cheering and hooting, and occasionally
there were conflicts between the escorts and the strikers, but the determined
nature of the police arrangements and the fact that three men who had been
arrested in connection with Monday’s disturbances had each been sentenced to
three weeks hard labour, had the desired effect....
The Shipley
Times and Express, 30 May 1913:
WORK OF THE POLICE.
The Yorkshire
Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 6 June 1913: NOW ON VIEW. Solid silver cup, presented by Mrs. J Farndale
to the Bradford City Police Athletic Club for annual competition. Fattorini and
sons, 21 Kirkgate, Bradford. Valuers for probate. Telephone number 3061-2.
The police were
called to deal with ‘Bradford’s big fire’ in 1913. The Leeds
Mercury, 12 September 1913: BRADFORD’S
BIG FIRE. POLICE AND RUMOURS OF INCENDIARISM. Huge crowds assembled in
Cheapside to inspect the damage caused by the great Bradford fire on
Wednesday night. The fire assessors from the various insurance companies
concerned went over the building during the day, and having regard to the
valuable nature of stock, it was computed that the damage would probably reach
from £40,000 to £50,000. This is but one of a series of big fires in the
Bradford district this year. It will unfortunately be a record year, the
damage to date being somewhere near £250,000. Having regard to the large number
of disastrous outbreaks, the question of incendiaries has naturally arisen
in connection with the Cheapside fire. It was rumoured among certain
gentlemen who were present at the scene of the fire that an anonymous
communication had been received at the town hall threatening that other fires
would take place on certain dates. The Chief Constable, Mr Joseph Farndale,
has, however, flatly denied that any such communication has been received. The
detective force has made close investigations with a view to the possibility of
incendiaries, but there is no evidence in that direction. It appears that
all the doors of the building were securely locked at 7:45, and that the first
flame was seen at 9.5 (sic). All the windows and doors were intact when the
fire brigade arrived. Shortly after five o’clock last night an empty packing
case was found to be on fire in the churchyard of Cloth Mills, Manchester Road,
occupied by Messrs Armitage and Ibbetson. The fire was extinguished with a few
buckets of water, but about ten 10 minutes past nine o’clock, a second packing
case was found on fire outside the glass and China shop of Harry Jackson, Manchester
Road, quite close to Claugh Mills. Both these
outbreaks are attributed to the pranks of youthful incendiaries.
The Shipley
Times and Express, 19 September 1913: THE
BRADFORD POLICE CUP FINAL. The final tie for the Challenge Cup presented by
Mrs Farndale, wife of the chief constable of Bradford, Mr Joseph Farndale,
for competition among the cricket clubs in the Bradford City police
force was played at Idle on Monday. … the trophy was presented to the
captain of the winning team, Inspector Turner, by Mrs Pickles, daughter of the
chief constable, Mrs Farndale being unable to be present owing to indisposition.
Mrs Farndale was thanked for the gift, and Mrs Pickles for handing it to the
winners, at the instance of Inspector Cromwell, seconded by Detective Inspector
Haugh. In the course of a few remarks, Mr Farndale said he had greatly
enjoyed the game, and although he did not expect policeman to be cricketers
first, and officers of the law afterwards, they were all pleased to see them so
active on the cricket field. Amongst those present at the presentation were
Inspector G S Walker, of Idle and Mrs Walker.
1914
In January 1914, Joseph
Farndale was awarded the King’s Police Medal for Meritorious Service. The
Daily Citizen (Manchester), Aberdeen Press and
Journal, Lancashire Evening Post, Manchester
Courier, Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer, Birmingham
Daily Post, Sheffield Daily Telegraph, Newcastle
Journal, 1 January 1914: NEW YEARS HONOURS … POLICE MEDALS. The King’s
Police Medal has been awarded to a number of officers of the police
forces and fire brigades in the United Kingdom and Overseas Dominions. The
rewards are made in recognition of meritorious service or conspicuous
gallantry. Among the England and Wales recipients are … Chef Constable Joseph Farndale
(Bradford City Police) …
The Sheffield
Independent, 1 January 1914: KING’S POLICE MEDAL. HONOURS FOR YORKSHIRE
OFFICERS. His Majesty has awarded the King’s Police Medal to a number of
officers … Chief Constable Joseph Farndale, Bradford City Police …
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 1 January 1914: The fount of
honour has flowed very strongly in the Yorkshire Direction this New Year’s Day
… The only other honour is the granting of the police medal, a much coveted
honour in the service, to Mr Farndale, the Chief Constable of Bradford.. It has
been fairly earned, as anyone who compares our police force with what it
was antecedent to Mr Farndale’s coming will readily acknowledge. Mr
Farndale is one of the Chief Constables who have risen from the ranks.
His association with Bradford (writes a public official) has produced a higher
state of efficiency than ever previously known, and our police force has
earned the distinction of being one of the finest in the country. The
undesirable members have been gradually weeded out, and there are fewer cases
of over officiousness on the part of our police than at any other period. A strict
disciplinarian, Mr Farndale has succeeded in impressing the men under his
charge with a high ideal of their duty to the community, and the Bradford
policeman of today is quite a different person to the man of twenty or thirty
years ago. He is more of a friend than a person to be feared, and while wrong
doers are well looked after they are always treated with the greatest
consideration. The Bradford Chief Constable has shown himself capable of
handling difficult crowds, and his conduct during the serious trade disputes in
the city gained him general approval.
Somewhat ominously, there
followed the message: A Happy New Year to all our readers. There is no
reason why we shouldn’t take a cheerful view of 1914 …
BRADFORD
CHIEF CONSTABLE. Congratulations from the Bench. Today at the Police Court,
the Stipendiary Magistrate (Mr W W Wilberforce),
addressing the Chief Constable (Mr Joseph Farndale) said: “I congratulate you
on your well earned honour. I am sure it is only the
first of many others. Chief Constable; I thank you.
The Yorkshire
Evening News, 1 January 1914: KING’S POLICE MEDALS FOR
YORKSHIRE. Amongst the recipients of the King’s police medal for merit and
bravery are … Joseph Farndale, Chief Constable of Bradford City Police, with
thirty one years’ able and devoted service, for merit …
The
Edinburgh
Gazette, 2 January 1914. Whitehall,
January 1 1914. His Majesty the King has been graciously pleased to award the
King's police medal to the following officers of police forces and Fire
Brigades in the United Kingdom, Indian India, and his majesty's dominions
beyond the seas: England and Wales.... Joseph farndale, chief constable of the
Bradford City police force.
Supplement to the London Gazette, 30 March 1920. 3785. Joseph Farndale Esq chief constable
Bradford City police.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 3 January 1914: THE
HONOUR FOR THE BRADFORD POLICE CONSTABLE. The Bradford Watch Committee met
yesterday when a resolution was passed congratulating the Chief Constable (Mr
Joseph Farndale) on the conferment upon him of the King’s police medal … Mr
Farndale suitably acknowledged the compliment.
The Whitby
Gazette, 9 January 1914: Mr
Joseph Farndale, the Chief Constable of he Bradford
City Police, was included in the New Year’s Honours List as a recipient of the
King’s Police Medal. He is a son of Mr W Farndale, and a nephew of Mr Joseph
Farndale, late Chief Constable of Birmingham, who was born in Egton. (Note
– in fact Joseph’s father was Thomas Farndale, the innkeeper of Wakefield).
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 3 February 1914: The
Chief Constable (Mr Joseph Farndale) has been commanded to attend an
investiture at Buckingham Palace on February 12th, when he will be
invested by King George with the Police Medal, an honour conferred upon him by
His Majesty at the beginning of the year.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 11 February 1914: CHIEF
CONSTABLE’S REPORT. In his annual report to the justices, the chief constable,
Mr Joseph farndale, said...
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 12 February 1914: Bradford’s
Chief Constable (Mr Joseph Farndale) attended at Buckingham Palace today to
receive the decoration of the King’s Medal for meritorious police service.
Mr Farndale has gained distinction among the head constables of the country,
and the Royal distinction is justly merited. Telegrams congratulating Mr
Farndale were dispatched to him this morning by the Lord Mayor (Alderman
Arnold), who was chairman of the Watch Committee up to his election to the Lord
Mayorality, and by Mr T Sowden, the present chairman
of that committee.
The Yorkshire
Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 12 February 1914: BREWSTER’S SESSIONS. COMPENSATION PAYMENTS AT
BRADFORD. CHIEF CONSTABLE AND THE EFFECT OF GOOD TRADE. The Bradford Brewster
sessions were held yesterday, Mr S P Myers presiding. The Chief Constable, Mr
Joseph Farndale, reported that there are 1,041 licences, compared with 1,052 in
the previous year … The chairman remarked that the report was not quite so
good as usual if the Chief Constable’s suggestion regarding the increased
drunkenness was correct, it certainly was a pity when people got more money
they got more drunk...
The Bradford
Weekly Telegraph, 13 February 1914: KING
DISTRIBUTES HONOURS. The King held an investiture at Buckingham Palace
yesterday morning, when he personally bestowed the Insignia of the various
honours conferred at the New Year, and also gave the accolade of knighthood to
various knights.... amongst those rewarded awarded the Police Medal was Mr J
Farndale, the Bradford chief constable.
The Sheffield
Daily Telegraph, 13 February 1914: ROYAL
INVENTITURE. The King held an investiture at Buckingham Palace yesterday,
when he personally bestowed the Insignia of various honours conferred at the
new year. His Majesty bestowed the Police Medal on members of the police and
fire brigade for distinguished service or conspicuous gallantry, and a
number of acts of bravery in saving life on the railway were recognised by the
bestowal of the Albert and Edward medals. Among the recipients of the King's
Police Medal were... Mr Joseph Farndale, chief constable of the Bradford
City police, 31 years service...
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 20 February 1914: CHIEF
CONSTABLE’S RECORD. COMPLIMENTS FROM THE BENCH. STIPENDIARY AND ROYAL
RECOGNITION. At the Bradford City Police Court this morning the chief
constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, was complemented by the bench on the honour
recently conferred upon him by His Majesty the King in the award of the
King’s Medal for meritorious conduct. The stipendiary magistrate presided, and
there were present Mr S P Myers, Mr W Tate, Mr JB Gordon, and Mr B Dobson.
Addressing the chief constable, the stipendiary magistrate said he had been asked
by the magistrates to congratulate him upon the distinction conferred upon
him by the Sovereign. “It is a great satisfaction to them”, he said, “that
the confidence we have always felt in your vigilance, integrity, and discretion
has been justified by royal approval.” “The position of the head of the police
force of a great city,” said Mr Wilberforce, “must always be one of the one of
extremely anxious responsibility, and that you have occupied that position for
so many years, with, I am told, an entire absence of any serious or hostile
criticism, is at once unusual and gratifying. The public are sometimes a
little suspicious of an interchange of
compliments between the bench and the police, and I hope I am justified in
saying that the opinion of the bench is shared by the community at large.
(Hear, Hear). The City, I hope, will long enjoy the benefit of your service.”
Mr C L Atkinson, on behalf of the members of the bar, associated himself with
the remarks of the stipendiary magistrate. The chief constable, who was wearing
the King’s Medal, expressed his sincere thanks for the generous congratulations
extended to him for an honour of which any chief constable had a right to be
proud. It came to but a few heads of the police forces, and fortunately for
him he had been chosen to receive it for doing what the king commanded, to
guard his people. 31 years was a long time to be in the public eye,
and to be responsible for the peace, good rule, and government at the boroughs
and cities in which he had served. The ordinary business of the court was then
preceded with.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 26 March 1914: REFERENCE
AT THE POLICE COURT. For the commencement of the ordinary business at the
Bradford Police Court today, the Lord Mayor, Alderman John Arnold, referred to
the appointment of the stipendiary magistrate, Mr H W W
Wilberforce, as metropolitan magistrate. It was with mixed feelings, he said
that he rose to express the deep regret which was felt by all at losing Mr
Wilberforce as step entry magistrate... Mr Joseph Farndale endorsed the remarks
of the Lord Mayor, and the ordinary business of the court was preceded with.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 6 April 1914: The
Lord Mayor had several engagements for this week. Tomorrow he presides over the
meeting at the City Council. On Wednesday he takes the chair at the annual
meeting of the charity organisation society to be held at the town hall and
afterwards he is to make a presentation to the chief constable, Mr. J
Farndale, on behalf of the officers and men of the police force, who are
not only desirous of showing appreciation of the recent awards to him of the
King's Medal, but also of his deep interest in their welfare.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 9 April 1914: POLICE
CHIEF. DISTINCTION FOR MR FARNDALE. KING’S POLIUCE MEDAL. CONGRATULATIONS FROM
CITY FORCE. The Bradford City police force yesterday honoured their chief
constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, by presenting him with a silver reading lamp
to commemorate the recent distinction conferred upon him by the King, when
he was the recipient of the King's police medal. The ceremony took place at the
Bellevue barracks, every department of the service being represented. The presentation
was made by the Lord Mayor, Alderman John Arnold, the chairman of the Watch
Committee, Councillor Thomas Sowden, presided, and he was supported by
councillors...
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 9 April 1914: WATCH
CHAIRMAN’S SPEECH. Councillor Sowden said the occasion was quite unique in
character, and it was a tribute to the police force of the city that they
should show their appreciation of the chief constable in the manner they
were doing. It was 14 years since Mr Farndale came to Bradford, and since then
many changes had taken place in the police service. The force when Mr Farndale
took charge was 391 strong; Today it was full 448. The scale of pay had
twice been revised on the recommendation of the chief, and in addition many
facilities had been provided for the men to profit themselves for the ever
increasing duties which they had to perform, including classes on police duty,
first aid to the injured, lifesaving, and jujitsu instruction. Of the many occasions
that had been granted, the most noteworthy was that of one days rest in seven.
(Applause). Neither had the recreation of the force being overlooked, and of
all the innovations made by the chief constable one of the most appreciated by
the general public was that of the police band. He understood, proceeded
councillor Sowden, that it was 31 years since Mr Farndale’s first appointment
in a police force, that being at Halifax. After gaining promotion to successive
grades of service he was, in 1895, appointed chief constable of Margate. At
that time he was 29 years of age, and the youngest man in England holding such
an honourable position. Four years later he was appointed chief constable of
York, and three years later Bradford secured him. “I don't think we have ever
had to regret that appointment,” concluded councillor Sowden.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 9 April 1914:
POLICE CHIEF. DISTINCTION FOR MR FARNDALE. KING’S
POILICE MEDAL. CONGRATULATIONS FROM CITY FORCE.
The Bradford City police force yesterday honoured
their chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, by presenting him with a silver
reading lamp to commemorate the recent distinction conferred upon him by
the King, when he was the recipient of the King's Police Medal...
Watch Chairman's speech. Councillor Sowden said that
the occasion was quite unique in character...
Glowing tribute by officers. Glowing tributes as to
the chief constable's work in Bradford were forthcoming from several officers
who formally asked the Lord Mayor to make the presentation. Police Constable
Davie remarked that since the Chief took office he had proved himself
their best friend. They now get paid for overtime, a concession very few
expected. He recalled special occasions when officers had to work 12 and 14
hours a day without anything to call. That was not so now.... Sergeant Gail,
of the detective department, said he found the Chief to be an officer and a
gentleman. Inspector Coleman, Chief Inspector Naylor, and Inspector Cromwell
followed, the latter remarking on the personal interest which the Chief took
in his men, and he was willing to give advice. Superintendent White,
who held office when the chief constable came to Bradford, said many beneficial
improvements had been made. In the old days a recruit after being given
his clothes, was shown around the beat and then left to find his way as best
he could. Today he was first trained for his duty... Lord Mayor’s Esteem.
In making the presentation, the Lord Mayor said no one had greater respect for
the chief constable than he had and he was pleased the force had shown their
esteem in the manner that they had... Mr Farndale, in acknowledgement,
said he accepted the gift as a token of goodwill between him and the
subscribers. It was a difficult task to control a large body of men from which
the public expected so much and at the same time retain their goodwill and
feelings, but at all times he felt satisfied that that existed to the full in
the Bradford force. Words fail to express how deeply he appreciated the
honour...
By the way, Mr Farndale told two good stories
of his early career.
It was during the time when the recruit did not
receive any preliminary instructions. He was simply shown his beat and told how
long he had to remain there. One “raw ‘un”, was informed that in eight hours he
was expected to walk round eight times. He started on his duty like a
professional walker, and then returned to the Town Hall. The Inspector asked
him why he was not on his beat. The recruit’s reply was: “Well, I was told to
walk round eight times, and I have done it, so I am going home.”
There is a similarity in the story about the recruit
who was supposed to be on duty one very wild wintry night. When the Sergeant
visited the beat he could not find the new constable,
and eventually visited the man's home. He knocked at the door and the recruit’s
head soon appeared at the bedroom window. Of course, he asked him why he was
not on the beat, and was forced to laugh when the recruit answered, “But,
Sergeant, there's no one aht; I thought it was no use
me stopping aht a neet like
this.”
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 28 April 1914: PRESENTATION
BY THE WATCH COMMITTEE. Chief Constable of Bradford, Mr Joseph Farndale, was
today entertained to lunch and by the Corporation Watch Committee at the Town
Hall in recognition of the distinction recently confirmed upon him by being
presented with the kings medal...
July 1914 saw a
campaign against bad language by children in Bradford. The Dundee
Evening Telegraph, 6 July 1914: CHILDREN
URGED TO USE FOUL LANGUAGE. References to drunkenness, foul language, and
kindred vices in the city of Bradford were made by the Chief Constable, Mr
Joseph Farndale, presiding over a meeting of 2,500 men in connection with
Eastbrook hall, Wesleyan mission. The Chief Constable appealed to the men
present to use all their influence in support of the temperance cause at
Bradford. He regretted that his figures with regard to drink showed some
increase, but he hoped that was not to be taken as a criterion of the
insobriety of the city. There was another problem, the problem of Bradford’s
young people, which was a very grave one. He trusted that the present
purity crusade in the city would bear abundant fruit, because he was satisfied
that there were was great need for such a campaign, especially among young
people. (Hear, Hear). The bad language indulged in by sections of the
citizens was deplorable. A particularly painful case came up in the Police
Court recently. An individual took a child of about five summers up to a
constable in the street and insisted upon the child using some very obscene
language to the officer. The constable very properly took the man into
custody, and he got the punishment he deserved. In conclusion, Mr Farndale
urged the men of the Eastbrook mission to do all they could to put an end to
the filthy language in Bradford.
The Bradford
Weekly Telegraph, 10 July 1914: MR
FARNDALE: I consider a tour of Great Britain, with a lecture on “Bad
Language in big cities; its curse and cure”, would be a pleasant relief
from the constant cares of Chief Constableship.
BRUTES WHO INFEST PUBLIC PARKS. A BRADFORD SUGGESTION.
The Bradford authorities are now very keenly alert about the protection of the
children who, while on holidays are on while the holidays are on colour spend
their time in the parks. It is well known that a certain class of men infest
parks where their conduct is a serious danger to children.... Sir Arthur
Godwin, formerly a member of the City Council, has interested himself in the
question. He has two objections to the employment of men to protect women and
children. His first is that the evidence the evil doers are very circumstance
in their behaviour if they notice a man insight, and secondly, women and
children are naturally averse to confide their troubles to a man full.... The
chief constable, Mr. J Farndale, did not care to express any opinion with
regard to the suggestion...
World War 1 broke out on 28
July 1914 (but it would be
‘all over by Christmas” …).
The Bradford Daily Telegraph, 25
September 1914: Last night a number of us were duly sworn in as
special constables for the city of Bradford, but there is one little point upon
which the members of the unpaid brigade are a little exercised in their minds.
The chief constable explained that if, and when, we were called upon for
active service, and there was good reason to hope that there would be no
necessity for anything of the sort, we should receive badges of office,
but, unless we misunderstood him, we shall get nothing of the kind until that
day shall arrive. A question was addressed to Chief Constable Farndale on the
point, but his answer was not quite clear.
Very soon after the
outbreak of War, Regulations were made in Defence of the Realm. The Bradford Daily Telegraph, 30
September 1914:
City of Bradford. Defence of the Realm Act, 1914.
Notice is hereby given that the Secretary of State has, by order,
extended the area in which the Regulation here under set out is to be enforced
to the whole of the United Kingdom. The regulation will therefore be forthwith
strictly enforced within the city.
The regulation is as follows: “No person shall in any area
which may be prescribed by order of a Secretary of State keep or have in his
possession any carrier or homing pigeons, unless he is obtained from the
Chief Officer of the Police of the district a permit for the purpose, which
permit may at any time be revoked, and the Chief Constable of Police may, if he
considers it necessary or expedient to do so, cause any pigeons kept in
contravention of this regulation to be liberated.”
By order Joseph Farndale, Chief Constable.
The Defence of the Realm Act 1914 gave the
government wide ranging powers during the War, such as the power to requisition
buildings or land needed for the war effort, or to make regulations creating
criminal offences. The Act also conferred power to make Regulations during the
War for the Defence of the Realm.
By October 19154, a
Bradford Detective, the only Jewish policeman in the country at the time, was
wounded on the Marne and died of his wounds. The Leeds Mercury, 6 October 1914:
BRADFORD DETECTIVE KILLED. News has reached Bradford of the death of Maxwell
Solomon, who before he went to the front was a Detective Officer in the
Bradford City police force, and believed to be the only Jew policeman in the
country. Solomon was of great value owing to his ability as a linguist.
Before he joined the Force he was in the 1st Battalion of the Scots Guards, and
on the outbreak of war went out with the first Expeditionary force. He faught at Mons, and on the Marne, and received war wounds
on the 17th of September, to which he has succumbed in hospital. The Chief
Constable of Bradford, Mr Joseph Farndale, personally visited Leeds in order to
express to Solomon’s wife the sympathy of the Bradford police. Mrs Solomon
lives with her mother in Richmond Road, Leeds.
That same month,
Bradford received hundreds of Belgian refugees. The Shipley Times and Express, 16
October 1914: BELGIAN REFUGEES ARRIVE IN BRADFORD. A REAL YORKSHIRE
WELCOME. AT HOME AT THE CENTRAL BATHS. Amazing street scenes marked the arrival
in Bradford last night of 230 Belgian refugees. It is indeed, to be
questioned whether on any previous occasion the heart of the city has presented
such a sight as it did in this instant, and it is doubly doubtful whether the
people themselves have ever been stirred to such sympathy as has been aroused
by the victims of the modern Attila and his hordes... The Lord Mayor welcomed.
… The station was packed with people who had managed to elude the directions
that only passengers by local trains should be admitted and on the platform was
gathered a representative company of citizens including the Lord Mayor and Lady
Mayoress... Mr. J Farndale, chief constable...
The Bradford Daily Telegraph, 24
October 1914: BELGIAN REFUGEES. ANOTHER PARTY ARRIVE IN BRADFORD. A
WARM WELCOME. Another party of Belgian refugees arrived in Bradford last
evening. Though the time of arrival had been a well kept
secret a large crowd of people assembled in the centre of the city to give them
a welcome... a large detachment of Boy Scouts formed an escort on the police
station and the party were officially welcomed by the Lord Mayor and Lady
Mayoress... the chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale...
The Yorkshire Post and Leeds
Intelligencer, 28 October 1914: REFUGEES IN THE NORTH Bradford last
evening welcome to the third batch of Belgian refugees. There were 44 in
all, bringing the number now comfortably housed in the city up to about 300.
Most of the yesterday's contingent were factory hands, porters, and their
families. Those on the station to welcome the refugees included the Lord
Mayor... and the chief constable Mr. J Farndale...
The Bradford Daily Telegraph, 16 October 1914:
CITY OF BRADFORD
ALIENS RESTRICTION (CONSOLIDATION) ORDER 1914
ALIENS RESTRICTION (CHARNGE OF NAME) ORDER 1914
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN of the provisions of the Aliens Restriction (Change of Names Order) 1914 extending
and amending the Aliens Restriction (Consolidation)
Order 1914.
1. The following
article shall be inserted after Article 25 of the Principal Order: - “25a.An
alien enemy shall not, after the 12th day of October nineteen hundred and
fourteen, for any purpose assume or use, or purport to assume or use, or
continue the assumption or use of any name other than that by which he was
ordinarily known at the date of the commencement of the war.
Where an alien enemy carries on or purports who continues to carry
on, or is a member of a partnership or firm which carries on or purports or
continues to carry on any trade or business under any name other than that
which the trade or business was carried on the date of the commencement of the
war, he shall, for the purposes of this order, be deemed to be using or
purporting or continuing to use a name other than that by which he was
ordinarily known at the date of commencement of the war.
Nothing in this article shall affect the right of a woman who
after the commencement of the war marries an alien enemy to use the name which
she acquires on her marriage.
A Secretary of
State may, if it appears desirable in any particular case, granted exemption
from the provisions of this article.”
2. In Article 20 of
the Principal Order, the word “Order” shall be substituted by the word “Act”.
3. This order may be
cited as the Aliens Restriction (Change of Names
Order) 1914.
Dated this 15th day of October 1914.
Joseph Farndale, Chief Constable, Central Police Office, Town
Hall, Bradford.
The Bradford
Daily Telegraph, 20 October 1914: “TERRIERS’ “
COLOURS HANDED OVER TO THE LORD MAYOR. STIRRING CEREMONY IN BRADFORD The
sound of bugles and the sight of a large company of khaki clad men marching
through the streets attracted the attention of Bradford citizens for this
morning, and a big crowd followed the soldiers to the town hall square to see
the ceremony which was performed there. And well rewarded, too, they were, for
they saw a smart parade and a military function of an unusual character. The
soldiers were the men of the 6th Reserve Battalion of the West Yorkshire
Regiment, and the object of their special parade, was the handing over
of the colours of the 6th Battalion to the Lord Mayor for safekeeping. On
arriving in the square, the men, who were under command of the Lieutenant
Colonel Hastings, with Major Speight, commander of the depot, and Captain WPM
Scott, formed up as three sides of a square round the main entrance of the town
hall, with the bugles to the right and the colour party, consisting of
Lieutenant Appleby, Lieutenant Fell, Sergeant Major Brough, Colour Sergeant
Johnson, Colour Sergeant Gavirts, and Colour Sergeant
Kemp all in full dress uniform, in the centre, with the two regimental banners.
On the town hall steps a large number of representative citizens had assembled
amongst others present being... the Chief Constable, Mr. J Farndale...
The Bradford Daily Telegraph, 26
October 1914: NOT A CIRCUS PARADE’. AIMS OF VOLUNTEER FORCE. SERIOUS
DRILLING FOR SERIOUS BUSINESS. CITY HEADQUARTERS OPENED. The opening of the new
headquarters of the Bradford City Volunteer Force in Leeds Road by the Lord
Mayor, Alderman John Arnold, this morning constituted a very notable function.
Councillor John bland presided, and he was supported by... the Chief Constable
Mr Joseph Farndale...
By
November 1914, licensing hour restrictions during wartime were being considered. The Bradford Daily Telegraph, 4 November 1914: PUBLIC HOUSE HOURS. BRADFORD LICENSING JUSTICES’ DECISION. NO
CURTAILMENT FOR CIVILIANS. CHIEF CONSTABLE AND A SATISFACTORY ARRANGEMENT. At
the weekly sitting of the Bradford licencing justices at the town hall this
morning, Mr S P Myers presiding, reference was made to the hours during
which licenced houses remain open and the hours during which soldiers may be
served. Mr W A Whitehead, addressing the chief constable, Mr Joseph
Farndale, asked if he was prepared to make his statement with regard to the
city since the outbreak of the war. The Chief Constable, in reply, said, as
requested, he had to report that during the last three months since the
outbreak of war, August, September, and October, the number of persons
proceeded against was as follows:... That proved that the condition of
things was satisfactory, and that the state of drunkenness during this exciting
time was normal. He might say, as the justices were aware, that recent
legislation in licencing matters gave him the power, if he found it
essential at any time, to apply to the justices for a restriction of the hours
of sale of intoxicating liquors in public houses and clubs. He might say,
however, that he had no intention of doing that, having regard first to
the state of drunkenness as shown by the returns, and further because the
licence holders of the city had, in conjunction with the commanding officers,
representing the military authorities, agreed to certain restricted hours for
the serving of soldiers.
The Leeds Mercury, 5 November 1914:
PUBLICANS AND SOLDIERS’ DRINKS. ARRANGEMENTS WITH ARMY AUTHORITIES. ACTION
AT BRADFORD. The question of restricting the hours at which licenced houses may
remain open in Bradford came before the Bradford licencing justices yesterday.
The chairman, Mr SP Myers, asked the chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, to
give a report relating to the sobriety in the city during the war...
Joseph Farndale was
not a fan on restrictions on football which were being proposed. He felt that
the absence of events such as football matches tended to cause more drunkenness. The Bradford Daily Telegraph, 26
November 1914: Interviewed this morning by a member of our staff on
the question of the effect which the stopping of football would be likely to
have on the amount of drinking in this city, Mr. J Farndale, the chief
constable, had no objection to discussing the matter. He had always, he
reminded his interview, expressed strong views that the interest taken in
football had done a great deal to decrease drinking in Bradford, more
particularly among the working classes. Upon that he was emphatic. While he
wished it to be understood that he expressed no opinion whatever on the present
crusade against the game, he agreed that if it was stopped, it would not be
without its effect on the city. Formerly, before football gained the hold it
now had upon the people, working men went from their work on a Saturday
afternoon straight to the public houses, still in their working clothes, and
there they would ‘stand their corners’, with results which would be obvious,
and too often it would mean that they would forget (?) to take their wages home.
The Star Green ‘un, 28 November 1914:
FOOTBALL AND DRINK. BRADFORD CHIEF CONSTABLE SAYS STOPPAGE OF GAME WOULD
LEAD TO DRUNKENNESS. As is well known the chief constable of Bradford, Mr. J
Farndale, has more than once declared that the football matches on Saturday
afternoons had the effect of reducing drunkenness. In an interview this week he
declared that it was a remarkable thing that one very rarely saw a man at a
football match in his working clothes. He went straight home from his work,
had a wash, changed his clothes, left his money at home like a decent fellow,
and then went off to the match. The chief constable made it clear that he had
nothing whatever to say on the question of the present crusade for stopping the
game, but, speaking simply from the point of view of the effect of football
upon drinking and drunkenness, he would be very sorry to see football
stopped as he feared that it would mean a return to the old ways on the
part of many working men supporters of football from.
The Yorkshire
Post, 23 December 1914: CRIMEAN
VETERANS ENTERTAINED AT BRADFORD. The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Alderman G H
Robinson, following the usual precedent at Christmas time, entertained the
Crimean, Indian mutiny, and other military and naval veterans at the town hall
yesterday. about two dozen being able to partake of his hospitality. They
were also presented with a gift of money. Among those present in addition to
the Lord Mayor were... the chief constable, Mr. J Farndale.
1915
In
January 1915, restrictions on drinking hours were imposed. The Leeds Mercury, 22 January 1915: NO DRINK AFTER NINE. BRADFORD POLICE CHIEF AND CLOSING ORDER.
From our Own Correspondent. The early closing of public houses at Bradford,
in accordance with an order issued by the military authorities, began amid many
protests and much discussion. Confusion has arisen as to the extent exact
meaning of the order, especially on the point as to whether licences were
allowed to keep open their houses after 9pm, the hour prescribed in the order
for the suspension of the sale of intoxicants, for the sale of non intoxicants and food. Another point is whether
extension of hours would be granted by magistrates to hotel keepers catering
for public dinners. The chief constable of Bradford, Mr Joseph Farndale, asked
yesterday by the Mercury correspondent to clear up these points, said the Justices
had decided that they would not grant any extension of hours for any purpose
whatever. In the case of a dinner being held at a hotel, the guests must
cease to consume intoxicants at 9pm, but they may remain till 11pm to smoke,
make speeches, or drink non intoxicants. As to the obligation to close public
houses altogether at 9pm, Mr Farndale said that licence holders were not bound
to do so by law, but he should think, that as a matter of policy they would be
well advised to close their doors at that hour. The Bradford Wine, Beer and
Spirit Trades Protection and Benevolent Association, which has a membership of
300, have decided to close their doors at 9pm while the order is in force.
The Whitby Gazette, 5 February 1915:
“One of the greatest factors in the success of the Volunteer movement in
Bradford Has been” says the Volunteer Gazette, “the cooperation of the chief
constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, nephew of the late Mr Joseph farndale, chief
constable of Birmingham, a native of Whitby, who placed at the disposal of the
executive a number of men specially efficient in drill. Every drill station
opened with a policeman instructor in charge.”
The Leeds Mercury, 21 April 1915:
BRADFORD POLICE AND WAR. The Annual Report of the chief constable of
Bradford, Mr Joseph Farndale, was yesterday issued to members of the watch
committee. This indicates that 1 Sergeant and 11 constables, all ex-army NCOs,
have been lent to the army's instructors. Two army reservists, who were members
of the force, have died whilst on active service, and three are prisoners of
war in Germany. The report points out that the duties of the police have
been considerably increased since the outbreak of the war, and especially
in connection with the Aliens Restriction Act and
the Defence of the Realm Act. A first police
reserve, consisting of men willing to serve should necessity arise, have been
enrolled, and a second police reserve of special constables in two classes,
paid and unpaid, has been formed.
The Leeds Mercury, 3 May 1915: MAY
DAY FESTIVALS. BRADFORD RAISES FUNDS FOR ARMY HORSES. The advent of May was
celebrated at Bradford by a well organised effort to raise funds for the
care of sick and wounded horses at the front. It was promoted by the
Bradford branch of the RSPCA, with cordial assistance of the Lord Mayor,
Alderman G H Robinson. For a considerable time past a loyal band of workers had
been hard at work making red, white and blue favours, with a miniature horseshoe
at the centre, and on Saturday 1,500 lady collectors distributed these in
return for contributions. Judging by the numbers number of these appropriate
decorations worn as the day advanced, a handsome sum must have been collected.
The principal event of the day was a parade of horses and trade exhibits
arranged by officials of this Chamber of trade. This was marshalled under the
direction of the chief constable, Mr. J Farndale...
The Yorkshire Post, 29 May 1915:
THE DEATH OF A PRISONER IN GERMANY. The chief constable of Bradford, Mr. J
Farndale, has received a communication from the officer in charge of prisoners
of war at Gustrow, Germany, stating that Fred
Harrison, a prisoner, there, died on April 30th. The chief constable is
requested to inform any relatives of the man, of the matter, but no member of
the Bradford police force of the name of Fred Harrison has been serving with
the forces in France.
The Yorkshire Evening Post, 4 June
1915: A BRADFORD SOLDIER SENT TO GAOL. At the Bradford City police
caught today, Private *, 27, a member of the 6th Battalion West Yorkshire
regiment, pleaded guilty to three charges of obtaining food by false
pretences. He went to three houses where borders were kept, and on the
false representation that he had come from various places to act as a drill
instructor at Bellevue barracks, he obtained food for several days. It appeared
that the prisoner had been convicted of stealing an overcoat 1912. He joined
the 6th Battalion West Yorkshire Regiment in January this year, and has been
before the court on one occasion for being an absentee. The chief constable,
Mr. J Farndale, stated that if the man's previous convictions had been known he
would not have been allowed to join the army. The prisoner was sent to gaol for
one month.
A captured German
Field Gun was proudly paraded through Bradford in December 1915. The Yorkshire Post, 21 December 1915:
A CAPTIVE GERMAN GUN’S RECEPTION AT BRADFORD. A 77 mm German field gun
captured at the battle of Loos is to be an exhibition in front of the town hall
at Bradford from tomorrow for some days. The reception of the gun is to be
made the occasion of a public ceremony. At the city boundary at Thornbury there
will be a procession formed for accompanying the gun to the city square. The
procession will be headed by mounted police, who will be followed by the police
band, 24 mounted men, and 130 on foot of the Army Service Corps at Bradford
Moor Barracks, the Lord Mayor, Mr. T Haworth mounted, and wearing the uniform
of the Bradford City volunteer force, who will be accompanied by Major
Hazlerigg, commanding the depot, ASC, at Bradford more barracks, and Major
Priestley, commanding the 3-2 West Riding Brigade RFA, and the Chief Constable,
Mr Joseph Farndale...
1916
Joseph Farndale did
not object to policemen attesting into the Army. The Yorkshire Evening Post, 18
January 1916: RECRUITING SLOW IN LEEDS. BRADFORD POLICE TO ATTEST. Group
enlistments fell off considerably in Leeds today, and the change was
somewhat unexpected after the briskness which marked recruiting yesterday.
Quite a large number of Leeds men are joining the Royal Navy division. Recruits
who have enrolled in the Army Reserve groups are allowed the privilege of transferring
into the Royal Navy division. Today is the last date on which men of groups 6,
7, 8 and 9 may lodge claims for postponement of service, and the offices
of the local tribunal in Great George Street will remain open until 9pm this
evening for the reception of claims. Already a very large number have been
lodged. The tribunal is still occupied with the consideration of the affairs of
men in the first full groups. At Bradford today recruiting under the Derby
scheme was brisker than yesterday, but married men still preponderate. The
chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, having received from headquarters the
guarantees necessary to him in regards to the maintenance of the efficiency of
service, has given his permission to all eligible members of the force to
attest.
The Leeds Mercury, 10 February 1916:
MANY PUBLIC HOUSES. ELEVEN BEERHOUSE LICENSES ‘REFERRED’ AT BRADFORD. At the
Bradford town hall yesterday the annual Brewster session was held, Mr W A
Whitehead presiding. The chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, in his annual
report, said that during 1915 there were 909 persons proceeded against for
drunkenness … The chairman pointed out that there were 1,000 licences in
Bradford, and that half of them were grocers’ licences. The figures with regard
to drunkenness could not be regarded as satisfactory, because 999 persons were
preceded against in 1915 as compared with 791 persons in 19 12 and 739 in 1911.
Personally, he had been reluctantly forced to adopt the view by the express by
the chief constable at the last Brewster sessions, when he said that good
trade and increased spending led, among certain classes, which he believed to
be small, to an increase in drunkenness....
Patriotism was
encouraged in Bradford at the second anniversary of the outbreak of War. The Leeds Mercury, 5 August 1916:
DETERMINATION OF THE PUBLIC. VICTORY MUST BE WON AT ALL COSTS. WAR
ANNIVERSARY DEMONSTARTIONS. Yesterday was the second anniversary of the
declaration of the war, and the occasion was marked in many towns by public
gatherings, at which the determination of the people to carry on the fight
to victory found expression. Several thousands of citizens in Bradford
assembled in front of the town hall yesterday afternoon, for the purpose of
participating in a demonstration of determination to continue the war to a
victorious end. Above the main entrance flags of the allies were draped and
beneath was a large platform on which work there were assembled the Lord Mayor,
Mr Thomas Haworth... The chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale,...
The Leeds Mercury, 6 October 1916: PRINCESS MARIE LOUISE INSPECTS BRADFORD’S WAR ACTIVITIES.
A party of distinguished people accompanied Princess Mary Louise on her tour of
Bradford’s war activities yesterday. Our picture shows the visitors grouped
beside the YMCA. The chief
constable, Mr. J farndale is on the left.
A difficult conundrum arose
as to whether tripe constituted ‘newly cooked food’. The Yorkshire Post, 23 December 1916: TRIPE AFTER
EIGHT PM: PROBLEM FOR THE BRADFORD STIPENDIARY. At Bradford yesterday, *, tribe
dealer, of 148 Westgate, was summoned for keeping his shop open after 8pm in
the evening. The chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, who prosecuted, said it
was a case of selling tripe, and it would be for the bench to decide whether or
not tripe was a ‘newly cooked provision’. His submission was that the term
‘newly cooked’ applied only to provisions in a hot or nearly hot state. The
term ‘newly cooked’ had not been defined in the Order. In his district tripe
was cooked at least 12 hours before it was sold, and he therefore submitted
that it was not a ‘newly cooked food.’
1917
There was a tram crash in
1917. The
Leeds Mercury, 9 January 1917: ALARMING
TRAM SMASH AT WYKE. LADY CONDUCTOR’S TERRIBLE EXPERIENCE. 22 PERSONS INJURED.
Great alarm was created at Wyke, on the outskirts of Bradford, in the early
hours of yesterday morning by a tramcar smash on the Wyke to Balin Bridge
section of the Bradford corporation tramways. An empty car was standing
opposite Wyke council station about 7am, when, for some unaccountable reason,
it started to run down Wyke bank. It soon developed an alarming speed, and when
near the Red Lion Hotel, it crashed into another car proceeding towards
Balin Bridge. The later car was partly filled with work people from the
Wyke district, most of them were miners, and there were also a few women. On
the rear platform was the lady conductor, Jenny Regan, and there were also a
number of men seated outside the covered portion of the top deck. Miraculous
escapes. They were all taken completely by surprise when the runaway smashed
into them and completely wrecked the rear platform. Miss Regan was in the
most perilous position, and was thrown violently into the road, while the men
at the rear on the top were pinned fast. It was remarkable that none of them
were killed outright, and when the sensation subsided and assistance was
secured it transpired that there were no fewer than 20 cases of serious injury.
It was dark at the time and that made matters worse, but the residents of Coley
View, which is immediately opposite the scene of the collision, and also the
occupants of the Red Lion Hotel, at once did all in their power to alleviate
the sufferings of the injured. Chief constable Farndale, Police Inspector Lilingwerta, and a number of men from low Moor police
station soon arrived, together with … Fortunately there was a good
supply of first aid requisites nearby in a hut provided by a firm of motor car
dealers, and later on ambulances arrived from Brighouse and Bradford....
The Leeds Mercury, 12 May 1917: Mr Farndale, Chief
Constable of Bradford, speaking from thirty three years
experience of the drunkard, said that he had come to the conclusion that
the latter was prepared at all times to make some excuse for getting drunk. He
never blamed himself for his drunkenness, but always complained of family
troubles or his friends, or some other imaginary cause.
TABLET MEMORIAL TO BRAVE BRADFGORD FIREMEN. This group of members
of the Bradford fire brigade and licencing committee, together with men of the
brigade, was photographed on Monday evening at the Bradford fire station, where
the bronze tablet was unveiled in memory of the heroic conduct of the firemen
last August, on the occasion of a disaster at the Yorkshire munitions
factory. Names, reading from left to right: front row, Councillor Harry
Rhodes, Councillor John Lund, Councillor HP Wood, Councillor El lsles, deputy chairman of the fire brigade committee, Councillor
William Wade, chairman, Mr Joseph Farndale, chief constable, Councillor Thomas
Taylor, Councillor Walter Bateson, Councillor Haulstead.
2nd row, Fireman Metcalf, Chief Officer James Scott, Fireman Thorpe, Ex
Councillor JW Swithenbank, Fireman Blakey, Councillor T Blyth, Alderman A
Pickles, Councillor E Siddle, Mr Unsworth, Mr. A Fattorini and at the end
Superintendent Forbes. Back row, Fireman Hall, Quigley, Flaxington, Robinson,
Crighton, Masshender, Cousins, Mosby, Toothill, Horn,
Place, Bartle, Farrar (Bradford
Weekly Telegraph, 13 July 1917).
A memorial service
for the Fallen was held in July 1917. The
Leeds Mercury, 16 July 1917: BRADFORD’S
FALLEN. IMPRESSIVE MEMORIAL SERVICE AT PARISH CHURCH. The Lord Mayor of
Bradford, Alderman Abraham Peel, and many prominent citizens attended the
parish church yesterday afternoon on the occasion of a memorial service for
all who had fallen in the war, and particularly those from the city of
Bradford. An imposing procession was formed at the town hall and it
included a considerable number of officers and men from the local volunteer
battalions, the National Motor Volunteers, and the Legion of Frontiersmen. The
Chief Constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, marshalled the proceeding which was led by
mounted police. The police band and the city volunteers also were in
attendance. The vicar, in the course of an eloquent dress, said: “There is a
hush over the city life today, politics are dead, businesses forgotten, and
other things that divide us are laid aside. As one great family we come to the
ancient House of Prayer to mourn and to sympathise.”
The Bradford Weekly Telegraph, 2
November 1917: The Lord Mayor had several engagements for the present
week. Tonight he will preside at the second annual smoking concert of the
special constables of Bradford, at which medals will be presented to the
successful competitors by the Chief Constable (Mr Joseph Farndale).
1918
The Leeds Mercury, 30 January 1918:
BRADFORD’S LOSS. ELOQUENT TRIBUTES TO THE LATE LORD MAYOR. The people of
Bradford are keenly affected by the death of their Lord Mayor, Captain
John Bland, and expressions of deep sympathy with the relatives are to be heard
on every hand.... the Stipendiary Magistrate, Mr Beaumont Morice, referred to
the courageous manner in which the lord mayor had undertaken his duties and to
the noble manner in which he had been assisted by the lady mayoress, Miss
Purcell. Mr A G MacGuinnes on behalf of the bar, and
the chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, associated themselves with the
foregoing remarks...
The Yorkshire Post, 11 March 1918:
THE ACHIEVEMENT OF BRADFORD. FIVE CRUISERS INSTEAD OF TWO. Bradford’s task
was to raise two cruisers on the value of £800,000, and the city which justly
pride itself in its patriotic response to national funds, subscribed the money
for five, the grand total of investments for the week amounting to £2,010, 000.
The total on Saturday was £509, 087.... The Lord Mayor announced the
achievement from a temporary platform at the tower entrance of the exchange.
Accompanying him were... Mr Joseph Farndale...
The King and Queen visited
the Saltaire Mills in May 1918. The Shipley
Times and Express, 31 May 1918:
KING
AND QUEEN AT SHIPLEY. OVER HALF AN HOUR AT SALTAIRE MILLS. INTRODUCTION AT THE
MIDLAND STATION.
By
coincidence the Royal Party were at the Sir Titus Salt Bart & Sons,
spinners and manufacturers at the Saltaire Village between 3.05 and 3.40pm
where James Farndale (FAR00555), a distant relative, was
the drawing foreman.
The visit
on Wednesday afternoon to Shipley of the King and Queen was an occasion of
spontaneous public demonstration such as is inspired among their people
everywhere by their Majesties, even when the visit, as was the case on
Wednesday, was often informal character. But war conditions gave to the
meeting a realism in which the Throne is seemed to be much more than a
symbol, and it was in the minds of many people that the quest was all the
more interesting because it was unofficial. There was more scope than usual for
the personal element, and the sentiment which the visit aroused was naturally
strengthened by the object of their Majesties’ visit, for their three
days tour of the West Riding of Yorkshire - beginning at Bradford on Wednesday
morning and terminating to date today at Leeds, was really an inspection of
representative textile factories that are engaged on work of national
importance. Consequently, local interest could not have been a greater
stimulus, and, so far as circumstances permitted the residents expressed their
appreciation of the royal favour that was conferred on them. They crowded the
places of interests, displayed a large quantity of decorations in street, shop
and residence considering there was no organisation behind this sort of
compliment to their Majesties; and in in a variety of other ways they indicated
the warmth and sincerity of their welcome. It was the first time for the
visit of a King and Queen and the inspection of Saltaire mills was also
high testimony to the industrial importance of the town and to the eminence
of the enterprising spinning and manufacturing Firm, Sir Titus Salt, Bart and
sons and co limited.
Shipley's
association with Royalty began in 1882 when the late King Edward V11 and Queen
Alexandra stayed two nights at Milner field,
where, at the Prince as the Prince and Princess of Wales, they came for the
opening of the Bradford Technical College. Coming to Saltaire Station by train,
they were received by the representatives of the town in the grounds of the
Saltaire Congregational Church, a roadway having been cut through the railway
embankment. Next morning they drove from Milner field through Saltaire and
Shipley, being received by the representatives of Bradford at the boundary of Frizinghall. Among the decorations was an imitation gothic
arch at the Frizinghall entrance to Lister park, and
the present permanent arch was afterwards erected as a memorial of the visit.
In May 1887, Royalty was again at Milner Field, Princess Beatrice being the
visitor. She had come to open the Saltaire Jubilee Exhibition. The late Mr
Titus Salt and Mrs Salt were on both occasions resident at Milner Field. On
September 27th 1916 her Imperial Highness the Grand Duchess George of Russia
came to Saltaire from Harrogate, accompanied by her two daughters, the Princess
Nina and Zenia, to open a patriotic bizarre.
Time
and place.
It
was a busy day for their Majesties on Wednesday, when they kept the following
timetable.
9:52
AM. Arrived in Bradford, Midland Railway Station. Received by the Lord Mayor,
Mr H Tetley, the Town Clerk, Mr F Stevens, the Chief Constable, Mr Farndale.
9:57
AM. Arrived at town hall, received by the Lord Mayor and the lady mayoress.
10:30
AM. leave the town hall....
…
3:05 PM. Arrived at Sir Titus Salt, Bart, and sons and Co limited, Saltaire,
spinners and manufacturers. Received by Sir James Hill, Bart, MP.
3:40
PM. Left Sir Titus salt, Bart, sons and Co limited...
Arrival
at Shipley.
When
their Majesties reached Shipley the streets were gay with flags and bunting,
some were connected with decorations, the sun was at full power, and thousands
of people from far and near were sightseeing, in a word, it was Kings weather
for a King's visit, and the summer scene with an arch of blue sky overhead was
perfect.
The
appointed route to Saltaire was lined with spectators, thousands turning out to
see their Majesties. But traffic was well controlled by the police and special
constables in charge of Inspector Folks. Just outside the mills the Bradford
City volunteer band took up a position, and during the interval the crowds
waited for the role visitors, played up to date collections of music. The mills
were not running during the afternoon, all the hands having been given half
holiday, excepting those required in the department's through which their
Majesties were to pass....
The Leeds Mercury, 31 July 1918:
A CHIEF CONSTABLE’S SALARY. There was a protracted discussion at a meeting
of the Bradford City council yesterday afternoon with regard to the proposal of
the War Wages Committee to make an
allowance of 20% of his salary to chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, in
consideration of the fact that he was at present entitled to retire on a
pension of £666, it being understood that he would continue in office for the
period of the war at least. Mr C A Glide moved, as an amendment, that this
allowance be not made, on the ground that the remuneration of £1,000 a year now
paid was satisfactory in the circumstances. The amendment was defeated by 31
votes to 15, and the proposal of the committee to pay the extra 20% allowance
was carried.
1919
The Yorkshire Evening Post, 9 June
1919: THE LATE ALDERMAN PEEL OF BRADFORD. Sympathetic references to
the death of Alderman Abraham Peel were made at the Bradford City court today.
The deputy mayor, Mr W Barber, said Alderman Peel was one of nature's
gentlemen. Success had never spoiled him. As Lord Mayor of the city during
1916 to 1917, one of the most critical periods of the war, he performed
functions appertaining to the office to the satisfaction of all. His many
friends had sustained a sad loss by his death. The Chief Constable, Mr Joseph
Farndale, said Alderman Peel rather fought shy of the court because he had
no wish to meet out punishment to his fellow men. He constantly endeavoured to
put the wrongdoer on the right path...
By 1919, Joseph
Farndale was acting in a licensing and censorship capacity in respect of the
new cinemas. The Kinematograph Weekly, 3 July 1919: It was
stated at the annual licensing sessions held on June 25 that there were 40
places licenced under the Kinematograph Act 1909,
a decrease of one. Of these, 26 held annual licences and 11 dramatic licences.
The chief constable, J Farndale, said that the conduct of all these places had
been good.
The Yorkshire Evening Post, 21
November 1919: BRADFORD
MANUFACTURER’S ALLEGED THEFTS. A question of a bank's money. At Bradford today,
*, 39, manufacturer, 9 Bolingbroke Street, was further remanded on the
following charges: (1) purloining a quantity of worsted and cotton yarn, (2)
stealing a quantity of Worcester and cotton yarn, total value £42, the property
of Messrs Guevara Limited, between August 26 1918 and January 9/19/19. When the
accused was before the court last Saturday, it was stated by the Chief
Constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, that the total value of the property alleged to
have been stolen ran into four figures....
1920
Joseph Farndale was
made an OBE in 1920.
The Leeds Mercury, 31 March 1920: Mr. J Farndale,
Bradford chief constable, OBE (Sachs).
There was concern in
1920 about factory morals. The Huddersfield Daily Examiner, 15 March 1921: FACTORY
MORALS. The Chief Constable of Bradford, Mr. J Farndale, speaking in that city
yesterday, said there was too much looseness permitted amongst the opposite
sex in factories. There was undo familiarity between boys and girls, he
declared. It grew until they came to manhood and womanhood, then disaster
followed. Responsible persons in factories should check that freedom of
speech between young people. It was unfortunate that those who employed
them did not give greater attention to that phase of city life.
1921
The 1921 Census for Bradford
listed Joseph Farndale, 57 years old, married, born Wakefield, Police Chief
Constable, Bradford, appointed by the Bradford Watch Committee; Emma Farndale,
58 years old, also born in Wakefield; Eveline Farndale, single, 26 years old,
at home, born Halifax; and Emma Elsie Gladys Farndale, single, 28 years old,
single, born Halifax, at home.
The Leeds Mercury, 13 April 1921: Leeds
Investiture. Mr Joseph Farndale, Chief Constable of Bradford, who received
the OBE yesterday.
The Kinematograph Weekly, 22 September
1921: Joseph Farndale (Chief Constable of Bradford) said that
although it might not be known generally, it was a fact that there had never
been a picture turned down by the Bradford authorities. That was due to the
standard set by men like Henry Hibbert and Sydney Carter, who were pioneers in
Bradford and in the country. The police were not out to worry the industry.
They were only concerned in the welfare of the people, especially the young.
The charge of showing things not good for young people could not be levelled
against the picture houses of Bradford. As a censor of pictures, said
the chief constable, his trouble was the standard and thereafter, to be quite
honest, he had left the standard to the Trade and with that standard in
Bradford the authorities were quite satisfied....
1922
The police were concerned about a growing trend to make fancy dress
costumes from cotton wool in 1922. The Hull
Daily Mail, 19 January 1922: COTTON WOOL DRESSES NOT ALLOWED.
Emphasis was laid at the Bradford Licencing Court on Wednesday up on the
dangers of wearing fancy dresses made of cotton wool at dances. An
application was made by a local football club for a dancing licencing
connection with a fancy dress bull to be given shortly at St Chads schools,
Bradford. The chief constable, Mr. J Farndale, told the applicant that a
licence could only be granted if an undertaking were given that no cotton wool,
or other inflammable material, would be used on any of the fancy dresses.
Mr Farndale reminded the Court that on New Year Eve, a young Bradford girl
was burnt to death owing to her costume, which was made almost entirely of
cotton wool, catching fire. The applicant promised that no such
materials would be allowed, and the licence was granted.
The Yorkshire Evening Post, 6 February
1922: In consideration of his continuing to serve, it is recommended
that the salary of the Bradford chief constable, Mr. J Farndale, be
augmented by an allowance at the rate of 12 ½
percent, amounting to £156 5s.
The Leeds Mercury, 10 July 1922:
A number of police races were also included in a lengthy programme. The Mile
Relay West Riding championships was won easily by Bradford City police; PC Joy,
Bradford, won the Mile West Riding Championship walk in 8 minutes. 1-5 seconds;
a … prizes to the value of £200 were distributed by Mrs J Farndale, wife of the
chief constable.
An early drunk
driving offence:
The Scotsman, 30 October 1922: FATAL
MOTOR ACCIDENT. SEQUEL IN BRADFORD COURT. *,
aged 47, a textile finisher, carrying on business at Wind Hill, and
residing at Bingley, both near Bradford, was remanded on Saturday at Bradford
on a charge of being drunk in charge for motor vehicle, when an accident
occurred in which two men were injured, in the early hours of Friday morning,
and one of them died on Saturday morning. Chief constable Farndale, stating the
circumstances, said that early on Friday morning two taxi drivers, William
George Gledhill of Tudor Street, Bradford, and George Margerson, of Intake
Road, Bradford, were fixing spare wheels to a motor car in Manningham Lane.
Their lights were burning, and they were under a lighted street lamp. The
prisoner approached in another car at a rapid rate, and did not stop, although
warned by an onlooker. He ran into the stationary motor car, and Gledhill
sustained a fracture of the skull and Margerson had a broken leg. Both were
taken to the Infirmary, and Gledhill died on Saturday. Mr Farndale said that *
did not stop after the accident, although summoned to do so by a policeman. He
nearly charged into his officer. Later other police officers called on him to
stop, but he did not do so. A sixth policemen, however, boarded the
footboard, half a mile away, and caused the prisoner to stop. He found him to
be drunk. * was remanded being allowed bail himself at £1000 and two
securities of £500 each.
The Leeds Mercury, 30 October 1922:
SENSATION AT BRADFORD. MANSLAUGHTER CHARGE AGAINST MOTORIUST. BINGLEY MAN.
There were sensational developments at Bradford on Saturday following the
terrible motor smash which, as previously reported in the late Mercury,
occurred in the city late on Thursday night. George William Gledhill, taxi cab
driver, of Tudor Street, succumbed to the injuries which he sustained in the
affair; and *, 47, textile finisher of North Terrace, Bingley, carrying on
business at Wind Hill, who is alleged to have caused the accident, was charged
with manslaughter. He was remanded until Friday, £2,000 bail being allowed,
to sureties of £500 and his own recognisance of £1,000. The circumstances of
the tragedy were related to the Bradford bench by the chief constable, Mr
Joseph Farndale, who stated that about midnight on Thursday, *, accompanied by
another motor driver, was engaged in fixing a wheel in a car to a car, standing
in Manningham Lane. The vehicle was on the hear side of the road with the red
rear light in proper order, and within range of a streetlight. While they were
thus engaged, the prisoner approached the spot in an open car, and when 30
yards away was called upon to stop by a civilian. *, however, was stated to
have taken no heed the warning, and immediately afterwards the crash
occurred, both men being injured. The accused, proceeded Mr farndale, did
not pull up after the accident and ignored several other police signals. Three
constables, a Chief Inspector, and a Sergeant all stood in the middle of the
road at various points and vainly attempted to stop the car. One of the
officers, indeed, would himself have been a victim had it not been for his
agility. A quarter of a mile from the scene of the mishap however a fourth
constable managed to jump on the footboard of the car and detained the man,
*, it was alleged, was found drunk. Representing the prisoner Mr E Cawthorn
stated that though on bail * immediately went to the town hall and surrendered
to the charge of manslaughter, which he anticipated on hearing of Gledhill's
death. He was quite prepared to meet their charge and pleaded ‘not guilty’. He
had driven a motor car for many years without any offence. It is learnt that
George Margerson, Hillside Road, Bradford, who was also involved with * in the
collision, is progressing favourably.
1923
The Leeds Mercury, 15 March 1923:
THE ‘LISTEN INN’. ALCOHOL AERIALS OPPOPSED. VARIOUS VIEWS. Our announcement
yesterday that a Leeds publican had applied for permission to install a
wireless set in his public house has aroused considerable opposition, and
attracted some support. It is evident that if a large number of people have
their way the “listen in” will not be a sign which will be very prominent in
Leeds just yet. Amongst those who oppose the idea is the Reverend WJ Tunbridge,
of the Oxford place Wesleyan Chapel, who states that he objects chiefly
because he thinks it will make a special appeal to the young people.
Several other people engaged in work of a religious or temperance nature oppose
the suggestion on the ground that it will encourage drinking. As against that,
a Leeds publican in a large way of business, roundly condemns such
opposition. He stated that the innovation would not make for more drinking,
and suggested that it would be as well if those who are opposed to such
installations in public houses would consider the introduction of sets into the
Sunday schools and churches. He imagined it might increase their popularity. In
other towns the matter is being warmly discussed... Chief constable's view. The
chief constable of Bradford, Mr Joseph Farndale said that looking on the
question on broad lines he did not see how the justices could refuse licences
for the installation of the listening-in sets provided that the licence
holder installed the apparatus in a room in his house which was licenced for
music. He expressed the opinion that there was no necessity in such a case for
him to get another music licence for a wireless installation....
The Nottingham Evening Post, 15 March 1923. RADIO HURDY GURDY.
LATEST INNOVATION FOR STREET MUSICIANS. POLICE VIEWS ON PUBLIC HOUSE
INSTALLATIONS. …
The Leeds Mercury, 23 April 1923:
POLICE RUSE THAT FAILED. BRADFORD DETECTIVES’ PLAN. DUMMY NOTES. That the
Bradford bullion box thieves did not get away with even a ten shilling
note of their £17,500 haul is placed beyond doubt in consequence of
counting operations which took place in the Bradford chief constable’s office
on Saturday. The 20,000 currency notes recovered from the vacant brewery, where
they had been hidden by thieves, were sorted and checked by a staff of bank
clerks, all of whom had a number of red taped bundles before them, each
containing £500. Some of these appeared to have been tampered with, but it was
found that in every case the contents were intact. The wealth was formally
handed over by the chairman of the Watch Committee, Mr H A H Roads, and the
chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, to representatives of the National Union
and Provincial Nank, and immediately afterwards the money was transferred to
the strong rooms of the Market Street branch, to which the bul;lion
box was originally consigned. The police have not yet laid their hands upon
either the culprits or the box itself, but careful inquiries have at length
yielded trace of the latter.
The visit by the
Prince of Wales in May 1923.
The Yorkshire Post, 1 May 1923: PRINCE OF WALES
VISIT TO BRADFORD. OFFICIAL PROGRAMME. The official programme for the visit of
the Prince of Wales to Bradford on Wednesday, May 30, was issued last night as
follows: 9:45 AA: His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales KG and party,
accompanied by the Earl and Countess of Harewood, will leave Harewood house by
motor car for Bradford. 10:30 AM. Arrival of the Prince at the new workshops of
the Royal Institution for the Blind at Frizinghall,
where the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress, Alderman Thomas Sowden JP and Mrs
Sowden, accompanied by the town clerk, Mr N L Fleming, and the Chief Constable,
Mr Joseph Farndale OBE, will await him. The Prince will then inspect the
interior of the new workshops and will see the blind inmates at work....
Bradford Ladies to be presented to the Prince of Wales today.
The Leeds Mercury, 30 May 1923: Mrs J Farndale,
wife of the chief constable of Bradford.
The Yorkshire Post, 31 May 1923:
LUNCHEON AND PRESENTATIONS. Subsequently, in the Chief Magistrate 's room, a
number of prominent ladies and gentlemen were presented to His Royal Highness
as follows: Lady Barnby, Sir Francis and Lady Watson... Mrs Farndale...
The Evening Dispatch, 31 May 1923:
LUNCHEON SPEECHES. LORD MAYOR’S TRIBUTE TO POLICE CHIEF. The visiting chief
constables were entertained to luncheon at the Queen’s Hotel at midday by the
Lord Mayor Alderman David Davis. Submitting the toast of ‘the Association’, the
Lord Mayor referred to the honour bestowed upon Birmingham by the
Association, choosing the city's chief constable as president. “Our chief
constable,” he added “has been known to us for many years, and I venture to
think he is one of the keenest administrators of the police force, who has
always given satisfactory satisfaction to us.” … The toast of “the Lord Mayor”
was submitted by Mr. J Farndale, Bradford, who was the nephew of the late chief
constable at of Birmingham....
The Daily News (London), 27 August
1923: SWEEPSTAKES SCARE. POLICE WARNING MAKES PROMOTORS UNHAPPY.
Bradford is in the grip of a sweepstakes fever. The committee of one
Liberal Club is promoting one on the St. Leger, the tickets being five
shillings a piece. The prizes are
expected to amount to many thousands of pounds. Thousands of tickets have
already been sold. Many other organisations are promoting sweeps in the city,
and a warning given by a highly placed police official at Leeds, namely,
“that all sweepstakes are illegal and the promoters are liable to
prosecution,” has caused a scare among the promoters in Bradford. The Chief
Constable Bradford, Mr Joseph Farndale, asked to make a statement on the
subject, replied: “The law is there, and it is our duty to prosecute if the law
is broken”. This may be taken to mean that if the clubs promoting sweets
sweepstakes sell only to their own and affiliated members, they need not fear
being troubled by the police.
The Leeds Mercury, 15 October 1923: Mr Joseph Farndale, chief constable
Bradford, on Saturday completed 40 years service with
the police force, and 23 years in his present position. Mr Farndale,
formerly Chief Constable Margate and later at York, came to Bradford in 1900.
In that year 747 indictable offences were dealt with in Bradford, as against
1,340 last year.
1924
January 1924 saw a
terrible mill collapse in Bradford. The
Dundee Evening Telegraph, 10 January 1924: TERRIBLE
SPINNING MILL DISASTER. TOP FLOOR COLLAPSES; FALLS THROUGH BIUILDING. ,ANY
KILLED AND INJURED: WORKERS IMPRISONED IN DEBRIS.
The Bradford Daily Telegraph, 10
January 1924: MILL COLLAPSES. TERRIBLE DISASTER REPORTED AT
BNRADFORD. KILLED, INJURED AND MISSING. A mill is reported to have collapsed
at Bradford, Yorkshire, today, resulting in loss of life and injuries to
many work people. One of the first messages states that one person is dead,
that seventeen people have been taken from the wreckage more or less seriously
injured, and that 30 or 40 people were buried. A later telegram says: the upper
floor of a spinning wheel in Wharfe Street, Bradford, occupied by Messrs G H
Leather Limited, spinners, collapsed. Heavy masses of machinery crashed
through the doors beneath and a large number of work people were buried
in the debris. Large numbers of police and firemen under Chief Constable
Farndale and chief officer Scott are working feverishly to render aid to
the work people still imprisoned in the ruins. Masses of heavy spinning
machinery are being dragged up from the basement by ropes. 30 to 40 men were
pulling on the ropes at one period. The police, fearing another fall, cleared
all the helpers out of the building. One helper was almost hysterical because
just before the order was given he had found a woman pinned beneath the massive
timber. The scenes in the facility of the mill were tragic in the extreme.
Groans could be heard coming from the pile of debris. The disaster was reminiscent
of the Newlands Mill disaster at Bradford in 1882, when 54 lives were lost.
The Reverend W E Cunliffe, vicar of the parish in which the mill stands, was
quickly on the scene and offered a prayer in the building as the rescue work
preceded. Elizabeth Dawson, of Ripon Street, who has been employed in the mill
for two years, was the nearest worker to escape injury. She states that a girl
beside her went through the floor. There was no warning she told the
police a press representative. “The first thing I heard was a great noise. For
an instant I thought it was the machinery running away commerce it sometimes
does, but I soon realised something awful had happened. The frame next to mine
and the girl working it went down, and so did others. I was paralysed with
terror and rooted to the spot as my mates vanished. I saw that the control of
the floor had gone, but the girl at each seemed to be safe.” …
The Hull Daily Mail, 11 January 1924:
HEROIC RESCUE WORK. Immediately after the catastrophe, the police, fire
brigade, ambulances, doctors cover nurses and others likely to be of assistance
were summoned. Soon the mill yard was full of ambulances and motor cars cover
and doctors and nurses were continually arriving. Chief officer Scott took
command of the rescue operations and he was later that later assisted by chief
constable the chief constable, Mr Joseph farndale, and Superintendent Turner.
It was soon apparent that the task of removing the wreckage would be one of
extreme difficulty and delicacy, because most of the imprisoned men and women
were in the centre of the debris, and the slightest slip by the rescuers or the
unfortunate displacement of a single piece of wood might have led to an
increase of the death roll.
There was another
gruesome murder case in Bradford in February 1924. The Daily Evening Telegraph, 28
February 1924: ACCUSED MAN ASKS FOR BAIL. HAIRDRESSER’S JOKE LEADS TO
ARREST. The man seized by Bradford police late last night in connection with the
murder of Mrs Reaney was formally charged at 5:45 this morning with the
murder. Later he was taken to the magistrates and remanded. His name was given
as *, 47, of Howard Street, Little Horton Lane, Bradford, and he described
himself as an engineer. From about midnight until 4:30 this morning the police
were engaged in searching the house of the accused man and they returned to the
town hall taking with them a quantity of goods of which they had taken
possession. * is a man of pale complexion, with the hair going a little grey.
The charge against him was that he did feloniously, wilfully, and with
malice aforethought, kill and murder one Elizabeth Reaney, between 9pm on
February 22 at 8:30pm on February 23. The charge sheet recorded the fact that
the sum of £16 was found in the prisoner's possession. Inspector Wardell
appeared in the dock and the chief constable Mr Joseph Farndale said that in
view of the charge proffered against the prisoner he had had to ask for a
remand in custody for eight days. The prisoner: “Can I have bail sir?”. The
stipendiary magistrate “no”. A remand and was granted. Information which
led to *’s arrest was given by a hairdresser named *, who, in the course of an
interview today, said that * called it his shop on Tuesday morning for a shave.
He had a heavy growth of beard, and one eye was badly discoloured. * asked
jokingly whether his wife had hit him with a flat iron, and he replied that he
had fallen from a tram car. * thought nothing more of the incident until he saw
the police description, and then he gave the information to the police. The
prisoner is a married man, but has been living apart from his wife during the
past two years. He resided for eight years in the home in which he was
arrested.
The Gloucester Citizen, 28 February
1924: THE BRADFORD MYSTERY. MAN DETAINED ON SUSPICION. …
The Derby Daily Telegraph, 28 February
1924: BRADFORD MURDER. SUSPECT BROUGHT BEFORE THE MAGISTRATES. REMANDED
IN CUSTODY. …
The Leeds Mercury, 11 April 1924:
Chief Constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, has received a letter from a Bradfordian in America expressing appreciation of the
assistance given him by the press in tracing his brothers and sisters who
reside in the city. The writer was Mr EI Lloyd, of Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
Joseph Farndale was
made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (Civil Division) (“CBE”) in
the King’s Birthday Honours List in June 1924.
The Halifax Evening Courier, 3 June
1924: HONOUR FOR CHIEF CONSTABLE. Included in the Kings’ honours list
today is an award to Mr Joseph Farndale, OBE, Chief Constable of Bradford. He
is being made a Companion of the Order of the British Empire (civil
division). Mr Farndale was formerly a Halifax policeman and native of
Wakefield, he joined the Halifax force on attaining his majority, about 1883,
gained rapid promotion and rose to Inspector. In June 1893 he was appointed
Chief Constable Margate, and after a stay of three years became Chief Constable
of York. In June 1900 he secured his present position, and in April 1921 was
decorated with the Order of the British Empire.
The Sheffield Daily Telegraph, 3 June
1924: TWO BARONETCIES AND NUMEROUS NEW KNIGHTS. NO PEERAGES. Public
and police service recognised … CBE … Mr Joseph Farndale, chief constable
Bradford. …
The Yorkshire Post, 3 June 1924:
Several north country police officials appear in the order of the British
Empire lists, including … Mr. J Farndale, chief constable Bradford …
The Sheffield Daily Telegraph, 3 June
1924 – CBE - ... Joseph Farndale, chief constable, Bradford …
The Edinburgh Gazette, 6 June, 1924:
3rd June 1924. The King has been graciously pleased, on the occasion of his
Majesty's birthday, to give orders for the following promotions in, and
appointments to, the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire: to be
commanders of the civil division of the said Most Excellent Order: … Joseph
Farndale, Esquire, OBE, chief constable Bradford.
By 1924, Bradford
was having to deal with significant traffic problems. The Leeds Mercury, 2 September 1924: TRAFFIC PROBLEMS IN BRADFORD STREETS TOO NARROW FOR
PRESENT CONDITIONS. NEEDS OUTGROWN. Some
notable indications of the growth of Bradford’s traffic problems are
given in a report on the subject by chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale. A
special committee of the watch committee is considering means of dealing with
the problem. Since 1924 the number of persons killed or injured by
motor vehicles in Bradford has increased by 173% and in the same period the
number of motor vehicles registered or licenced have increased by 1,225%...
The Evening
Courier, 2 September 1924: STREET
CONGESTION. The Chief Constable of Bradford has issued a voluminous report
on street congestion and the possible ways in which it may be
alleviated. His strong point is that “The streets are not of sufficient
width to meet the present traffic requirements, unless some restrictions are
imposed by legislation upon the user of defined streets.” Bradford was
constructed when traffic requirements were comparatively small and many of its
streets were inadequate for the present and rapidly increasing pressure of
motor traction, but it may be remarked incidentally, Halifax is much older town
and, owing to its narrow streets, it awkward corners and its stiff gradients,
its plight is far worse than that of its neighbour. Hence the importance of
Mr Farndale’s suggestions, for we shall have to face the problem boldly one
of these days. Mr Farndale emphasises the difficulties created by the trams
upon fixed tracks, a point of which we have often referred. He regards this
as a serious obstruction to free movement, for it frequently holds up progress
or drives parking vehicles onto the off side of the road and creates
congestion. The loading of heavy vehicles at warehouses is another
frequent cause of delay and this can only be obviated by structural
alterations, not always possible, which would permit of such work being done in
quieter byways. Mr Farndale makes a number of suggestions. The first essential
is that slow moving traffic should be kept to the left or near side of the
road, but there are few streets that will accommodate three parallel lines
of traffic and that means the constant holding up of speedier vehicles by the
slow traffic. Hence the idea of prescribed streets for classified through
and local traffic. The essential heavy and slow vehicles should be kept
clear of the centre of town with prescribed routes for their journeys. It is
also suggested that certain streets might be scheduled as “one way” streets
during certain hours, the practical difficulty here is that parallel streets
within reasonable distance of each other should be available. Mr Farndale also
points out that excellent service in the cause of safety could be given by the
in inclination of “safety first” methods in school teaching. And he touches on the
speed limit idea, which is being mooted for Halifax through a special
resolution at tomorrow night's council meeting. He quotes the Departmental Committee on the Taxation and
Regulation of Road Vehicles as
saying that the imposition of a fixed speed limit is not the most effective
method of ensuring the safety of the public, suggesting in populous areas
and dangerous places the institution of a standard form of cautionary sign.
The Leeds Mercury, 27 September 1924: Major General Atchorley
inspected 320 officers and men of the Bradford police yesterday at the Bellevue
barracks. He is seen, in bowler hat, with Mr Joseph Farndale, the chief
constable of Bradford, and officers of the force. Joseph Farndale is third
from left behind Major General Atchorley in the bowler hat.
1925
There
was opposition to the payment of an additional allowance to Joseph Farndale by
1925. The Halifax Evening Courier, 14 January 1925: BRADFORD TRAM PASSES TO CEASE AT
THE END OF THE MONTH. Bradford tramways committee has got its way at last on
the question of the issue of tram passes … . A protracted discussion took
place on the recommendation of the Watch Committee to grant a non pensionable
allowance of £150 per annum to Chief Constable Farndale, formerly an inspector
of Halifax, for long service, but it met the same fate as it had done
previously. The socialists were up in arms against the grant, and despite the
support of the Liberal Chairman of the Watch Committee, of the Conservative
chairman of the Estimate Subcommittee, and another Liberal, the proposal was
defeated by 33 votes to 21.
Joseph
Farndale was unwell in 1925 and had to have an operation.
The Yorkshire Post, 2 May 1925: NEWS OF THE NORTH. CHIEF CONSTABLE
OF BRADFORD INDISPOSED. The Chief Constable of Bradford, Mr Joseph Farndale
CBE, through indisposition missed a meeting of the watch committee
yesterday, for the first time since his appointment nearly 25 years ago. Mr
Farndale completes a quarter of a century service with the Bradford police
force next month.
The Halifax Evening Courier, 21 May
1925: The Chief Constable of Bradford (Mr Joseph Farndale) is
making satisfactory progress after his recent operation.
By
1925, Joseph was becoming veruy interested in traffic control as the roads
faced increasing problems of congestion. Joseph
was instrumental in the recognition of a need for national rarther than local
traffic rules. The Citizen, 29 June 1925: TRAFFIC CONTROL. REPORT BY
POLICE AND ROAD USERS. UNIFORM LAW SUGGESTED. Recommendations of
considerable importance for dealing with the traffic problem are contained in
the report of the committee of representatives of the police forces in
Great Britain and of road users, which was issued on Saturday by the stationary
office. The committee, which conducted an exhaustive inquiry into “present day
traffic problems from the police and road users point of view,” was presided
over by Mr J Farndale, Chief Constable of Bradford. In summarising their
conclusions, the committee states that the development of the use of
mechanically propelled vehicles have become more and more a matter of national
rather than local concern, which makes it desirable that there should be
more uniformity in the law relating to the regulation and control of
traffic. Traffic being no longer local in character, it is well nigh
impossible for drivers and others who use the highway to recognise boundaries
and become informed of the several local requirements when boundaries
are reached. Regulations for the control of traffic should be consolidated,
amended, and brought up to date, and made uniform throughout the country.
Any powers dealing with the regulation and control of all classes of traffic should
be of general application by an Act of Parliament, and not under local acts or
by laws. On the question of the mechanical transport generally, the committee
refer to pillion riding on motorcycles, and stated: “we have considered this
subject, but are of the opinion that it should not be further proceeded with,
and make no recommendation here on.” The general opinion is also expressed that
no motor coach or large omnibus with more than 14 seats should be permitted to
be driven on unsuitable by-roads. The committee also considered the obstruction
and delay caused by heavy motor cars caused owing to the ability of drivers of
certain heavy motor cars to hear or see the signal given by drivers desiring
to overtake them, and recommend that the ministry of transport should
promote legislation on the matter as early as possible. Attention is also
called to the necessity of an efficient brake on every pedal cycle. The
committee strongly urged that all points where traffic constables are stationed
should be well illuminated. They suggest the wearing of white gloves by all
traffic duty constables, but do not consider that the wearing of white
mackintoshes would be of any material advantage. Being of opinion that cab
stands in busy streets take up road space, and crawling cabs are a great
nuisance, they recommend: (a) that a greater number of cab stands be provided,
where it can be done without causing obstruction; (b) that the number of cabs
on anyone stand be limited; and (c) that more cab stands should be linked up
with the telephone system....
The Leeds Mercury, 10
December 1925: BRADFORD LOSE TRADE TO
LEEDS. PEOPLE CANNOT SHOP WHERE THEY LIKE. STATEMENTS AT ‘BUS BATTLE INQUIRY’.
From our own correspondent, Bradford, Wednesday. The statements that Bradford
shopkeepers are losing trade to Leeds because of the lack of travelling
facilities into the city, was made here today, when an Inspector of the
Ministry of Transport, Mr R H Tollerton, conducted an inquiry into another
appeal by the West Riding Automobile Company against the decision of the Bradford
Corporation not to allow them to run motorbuses from Wakefield, past the city
boundary at Drighlington, into the centre of Bradford. The opening of the
inquiry marked the renewal of the “battle of the buses”. Bradford and
West Riding bus companies regard the appeal as a “test case” on the results of
which hangs the fate of their own applications. A year ago the ministry upheld
an appeal by the West Riding Automobile Company, and stated its intention of
issuing an order compelling the corporation to go up licences, but did not do
so comment the licencing year having expired meantime.... the Chief Constable,
Mr Joseph Farndale, asked by Mr Beaumont if he approved of the running of
omnibuses by the Corporation, said he certainly did not. “I don't approve of
the trams running in the centre of the city,” he said. “if I had my way, I
would take them out of the streets altogether.” The ministry's decision will be
known in due course.
1926
A
new ‘Safety First’ initiative began in 1926, which Joseph later bnecame very
involved with. The Yorkshire
Post and Leeds Intelligencer 17 December 1926: LORD MAYOR ON STREET PERILS. Some interesting
figures and comments on the recent startling increases in street accidents
were given at a meeting of representatives of all sections of the community
held at the Bradford Town Hall yesterday, at which it was decided to
inaugurate a local “safety first” council, to be affiliated to the national
“safety first” association.... the Chief Constable of Bradford, Mr Joseph
Farndale, said he despaired of educating the present generation. Pedestrians
would wander about the roads like the domestic fowl, though even that bird was
now better educated and at least got out of the way. It was a remarkable
thing that accidents were the fewest during the “peak times” of traffic....
The Leeds Mercury 17
December 1926: The Chief Constable (Mr Joseph Farndale) said the
domsetic fowl was more educated in the rules of “safety first” than the
pedestrian , for, at any rate, it did clear out of the way. It was a
remarkable thing that accidents were infinitesimal when the heaviest traffic
was on the road, as compared with the other parts of the day.
1927
Joseph
Farndale was a supporter of self regulation in cinemas, though still had quite
conservative views about what they should be showing. The Nottingham Journal, 28 March 1927: A Chief Constable’s View. The
chief constable of Bradford, Mr Joseph Farndale, interviewed on the subject, a
day or two ago, said that he had been in favour of cinema performances for
years. “It would be better for the morals of the young people,” he said,
“to keep them off the streets. It would be for their general well being.” The
Chief Constable went on to remark that he would like to have cinemas open
generally, not isolated picture houses here and there, although he would
restrict restrict the entertainment to the exhibition of suitable films. “Naturally,”
he added, “comedy would be barred; The films would be of an elevating type.”
The Newcastle Daily Chronicle, 5
September 1927: NEW PRISON METHODS. GOVERNOR’S WAY TO HELP WRONGDOERS TO DO
RIGHT. “We are the catch ‘em and keep ‘em society,” said the Governor of
Armley Prison, Mr S N Roberts, referring to himself and Mr Joseph Farndale,
Chief Constable of Bradford. They both spoke at the Eastbrook Wesleyan
brotherhood, yesterday, the Chief Constable being in the chair. Mr. Roberts
said that the prisons were receiving a different type of person than they got
many years ago. “That is partly due,” he said, “to the lives so many young
folks live. So many of them get into the habit of spending 25s for every pound
they earn, and there is bound to be a crash. Unfortunately some of them land
into our hands. If we treat them as having made mistake, and not as being
really wicked, I think we shall be able to help them.” Mr. Roberts added
that people had no right to expect a discharged prisoner to make further
payment after he had paid the price the law demanded.
1928
The Yorkshire Post and Leeds
Intelligencer, 30 April 1928: DUKE’S COMPLIMENT. MUCH IMPRESSED BY THE POLICE OF
BRADFORD. The chief constable of Bradford, Mr Joseph Farndale, has received the
following telegram from the Duke of York, respecting the police
arrangements for the Royal visit to the city on Friday: “Warmly congratulate
you and all concerned on the admirable arrangements made today. Was much
impressed by the appearance and efficiency of the police. ALBERT.”
Joseph
was the first chairman of the new Police Athletics Association, formed in 1928. The Leeds Mercury, 29 June 1928: POLICE ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION.
TRIBUTE TO THE WORK OF CHIEF SUPERINTENDENT ASPINALL. From our own correspondent, Selby, Thursday.
The police forces in England, Scotland and Wales are being asked to take part
in a great athletic festival, to be heard on held on August 11, at the
Liverpool Police athletic ground. The Police Athletic Association has
just been formed, and the Prince of Wales is the first patron, the Chief
Constable of Bradford, Mr. J Farndale, is chairman, and Mr H rich, chief
constable of Middlesbrough, honourable secretary and, the joint presidents
being the Secretary of State for Home Affairs and the Secretary of State for
Scotland. The first annual champ championship sports to be held as stated at
Liverpool are open to all police forces in Great Britain that are affiliated to
the PAA. The new Association will be affiliated to the AAA, SAAA, NCU, and
NAWA. 17 championships will be decided, including sprints, flat races, relay,
walking match, long and high jump, cycle and hurdle races, wrestling, putting
the shot, and throwing the hammer. The winner of each championship will hold
the trophy for one year. The man who has brought to a successful issue the new
organisation is the Superintendent of Selby police, Superintendent H Aspinall,
who is corresponding secretary of the competition.
There
was some confusion in 1929 about the permissability of mask wearing. The Leeds Mercury, 11 January 1929: LOVE MATCHES AT DANCES. A
BRADFORFD TOPIC. SHOULD THESE MASKS BE BANNED? From our Bradford Staff,
Thursday. Someone is trying to settle the Bradford Watch Committee with the
reputation of “killjoy.” When the Bradford Automobile Club sent a circular
announcing its fancy dress dinner dance to the Bradford office of the
Leeds Mercury today, a Reporter was set wondering by a footnote reading: “the
Bradford Watch Committee prohibits the use of masks.” although the Watch
Committee has much to do, including “the execution of all duties and the
exercising of the powers devolving upon or exercisable by the Council under the
Chimney Sweepers Acts, Explosive Acts, Performing Animals Acts,” and so on, censorship
of fancy dress costumes appears to be no part of its duties, unless of
course it comes under the Wild Birds Protection Acts, 1882 at 1908. Mr George
Muff, a member of the committee, told the Reporter he knew of no such ban on
masks. “I can only suggest that as there are so many love matches made at
fancy dress balls, the Chief Constable thinks people should make them with
their eyes open; and seeing that so much of the rest of the body is visible
it would be a pity to cover up the face.” he said. “A mask gives a fellow like
me a chance to get hold of a pretty girl for a dance, and it gives a girl with
neither good looks nor anything else the hope of getting off for a dance, if
not for good.” The Chief Constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, said: “I don't know
that we make any reservations about masks. What happens is this: that the
licences of dance rooms are held responsible to the justices as to the
costumes, and possibly, therefore, they feel their licences would be endangered
if any complaint were made as to the doings of any person present. It is a
matter for the management.” The Midland Hotel, where the Automobile Club Dance
will be held, knows nothing of the alleged “prohibition” and no stipulation is
made by the management.
The Leeds Mercury, 4 April 1929: HOLIDAY ‘SAFETY FIRST’. HEAVY
MOTOR TRAFFIC MAKES PEOPLE CAUJTIOUS. From our Bradford Staff, Wednesday.
During the holidays there was no serious accident in Bradford. The Chief
Constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, in conversation with the Mercury, said that at
holiday times, when the streets are busy, accidents are less common. “The
increase in accidents,” Mr Farndale went on, “is not as large as might be
gathered from reading the newspapers. They collect the accidents during the
weekend from all over the country and have a column headed “weekend
fatalities”. The column would be just as long if they were to collect the
number of people scalded by their firesides during each weekend. In the last
few years traffic has gone up 100%, and fatal accidents only 2%.” Mr Farndale
holds that the safety first campaign is bearing fruit, and that pedestrians are
more careful in crossing the roads.
Joseph
Farndale was the inventor of the police box (and therefgore the Tardis).
The Leeds Mercury 24 June 1929: POLICE BOX
INVENTOR. Several Yorkshire towns are greatly interested in Bradford's
discovery that the man who invented the police boxes with which, as in the
case of other places throughout the country, that city is shortly to be
“ringed”, is its own chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale. He has just
revealed that he was the first to suggest such a scheme, in a talk with
a government inspector six or seven years ago. Mr Farndale is a native of
Wakefield, where he was born 65 years ago, and he attended the Field House
Academy, Aberford. Attracted by a police career he joined the Halifax force
when he was 20 years of age, and in 1893, when he had risen to be second in
command at Halifax, was appointed chief constable of Margate. After four years
Mr Farndale became chief constable of York, and in 1900 succeeded Mr Roderick
Ross as Chief Constable of Bradford, where a feature of his administration has
been his provision for the organised recreation of members of the force.
The Yorkshire Post and Leeds
Intelligencer, 24 July 1929. POLICE STATIONS IN MINIATURE. Bradford chief constable,
Mr Joseph Farndale, who is a native of Wakefield, should, I am told, be a proud
man when London adopts the police telephone boxes that already “ring” several
cities in the provinces, including Newcastle and Manchester, and will shortly
be installed at Bradford. The idea of these miniature police stations, kiosk
shaped, and equipped with a telephone, desk and red warning lamp outside the
four policemen on patrol, came first from Mr Farndale, who suggested them
when a government inspector visited Bradford six years ago to inspect the
cities 12 district police stations. Talk turned on the convenience of the
stations, and Mr Farndale explained that by his police box system there could
be a police service at as many as 100 points in the city, instead of the
present 12 points. The plan was tried at Sunderland and other places, and now
London is to make a start with seventy of the boxes. It is hoped that they will
prove to be as convenient to reach as fire alarm boxes. Mr Farndale started his
police career at Halifax in 1884, and became chief constable at Bradford in
1900 after three years as chief constable of York.
Another visit to Bradford by the Prince of Wales
in 1929. The Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 13 November 1929:
PRINCE’S VISIT TO BRADFORD. COMMERCE HOUSE OPENING AT NOON TODAY. BUSY FIVE
HOURS. Bradford citizens are ready to give a Royal Yorkshire welcome to His
Royal Highness the Prince of Wales on his visit to the city today. The
Prince last visited not the prince's last visit was in 1923, when he opened the
new buildings at the Royal Institution for the Blind at Frizinghall and
distributed cheques to representatives of the local hospitals... The Prince
will be met at the Exchange Station by the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Alderman
Angus H Rhodes,... the Chief Constable, Mr Joseph Farndale...
The Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 14 November 1929:
EARLY ARRIVAL. The Prince arrived in Bradford at 10:15. He had travelled by
train from London, accompanied by his equerry, Captain Aird, of the Grenadier
Guards, and was accorded an official welcome at the Exchange Station by the
Lord Mayor, Alderman Angus Rhodes, with whom were Mr Douglas Hamilton,
president of the Chamber of Commerce; Mr N L Fleming, town clerk; Mr H T
Tulloch, secretary of the Chamber of Commerce; and the chief constable, Mr Joseph
Farndale. He was loudly cheered as he passed through the centre of the city on
his way to fulfil the first engagement, a visit to the dress goods mill of
Messrs John Priestman and Co at Ashfield, where he saw all the processes of
manufacture, from the state of wool in the top, to the fashioning of the
complete fabric, at least, up to the point where it was sent off to be dyed....
Joseph
Farndale presented a portrait of Sir Robert Peel to the Home Office on behalf
of the county and boprough police in November 1929. The Yorkshire Evening Post, 14 November
1929: GIFT TO HOME OFFICE. BRADFORD CHIEF MAKES A
PRESENTATION. A painting of Sir Robert Peel was presented to the Home Office
today by Mr. J Farndale, chief constable of Bradford, on behalf of the county
and borough police forces of England and Wales, to mark the attainment of its
centenary. The portrait is a full length cover life-size picture in oils,
which Mr H W Pickersgill RA, painted just a century ago, when Sir Robert was
Secretary of State for the home department. He is shown shown holding in his
right hand a document, on which is inscribed, “the Metropolitan Police draught
bill.”
The Tamworth Herald, 23 November 1929: POLICE GIFT TO THE HOME OFFICE.
SIR ROBERT PEEL’S PORTRAIT. A painting of Sir Robert Peel was presented to the
Home Office on Thursday last week by the county and borough police forces of
England and Wales to express their congratulations to the Metropolitan Police
force on reaching its centenary. The picture is a full length life-size
portrait in oils, which HW Pickersgill RA, painted just a century ago when Sir
Robert Peel was home secretary. He is shown holding in his right hand a
document on which is inscribed: “the Metropolitan Police draught bill.” Mr. J
Farndale, Chief Constable Bradford, made the presentation, and the Home
Secretary, in reply, said that Sir Robert had built better than he knew, and
the general social system had strengthened the reasons which caused him to act
at that time. The police force was now an army of more than 60,690 men. The
gift would be treasured as a portrait in its proper place of a very great man.
The Kinematograph Weekly, 5 December 1929: LORD MAYOR’S
VISIT. There was quite a large and appreciative audience at the first public
exhibition of “Disraeli”, which took place at St George’s Hall, Bradford on
Monday afternoon. The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Alderman Angus roads, was
publicly welcomed on the stage by Edgar Mitchell. Also present were F Marsden,
city engineer, and the chief constable of Bradford, Joseph Farndale. Mr
Farndale although he saw the film at the private show, expressed his pleasure
at once seeing it again, saying he intended yet again making a visit to St
George’s Hall.
The Leeds Mercury, 23 December 1929: MORE ROOM FOR BRADFORD CARS. To
obviate congestion by motorists, the Chief Constable of Bradford cover Mr
Joseph Farndale, has added eight parking grounds to the list of 38 which
previously existed. Motorists attending the football matches that Valley Parade
will now be able to leave their cars on the ground which stretches from
Cornwall Road to Trafalgar Street, and patrons of the Prince’s Theatre will be
able to park their vehicles on the ground in St John Street. Other grounds are
in Upper Kirkgate, Rawson Road, Randall Well Street, Thurnscoe Road, Midland
Road and Trinity Road.
1930
In 1930,
Joseph had turned his attention back to intoxicants and drunkenness,
particularly where intoxicants were quietly added to ginger beer.
The Yorkshire Evening Post 22 January
1930:
SOMETHING IN THE GINGER ALE. BRADFORD
LEANINGS. INSIDE INN SIGNS OF POTENT PORTENT.
Mention of signs made by public
house customers when they want “something in” there ginger ale, was made by
the Chief Constable of Bradford, Mr. J Farndale, giving evidence before the
Royal Commission on Licencing, in London, today.
Mr Farndale suggested that there
should be a return to the old system whereby police, finding persons on
licenced premises in non permitted hours, should be able to call on them to
satisfy a court that they were there legally.
“When we find persons on licenced
premises during non permitted hours now,” he said, “Unless we can prove
consumption of intoxicants they are committing no offence”.
He suggested that drinking went on
behind locked doors during closing hours, when to all outward appearances
the public houses were closed, and added: “If the police visit a house in the
afternoon, one of the favourite drinks is ginger ale, and it is difficult for
the police to prove there are intoxicants in it. There are certain signs
between customer and barmaid or licensee when he wants something in the ginger
ale.”
Drunkenness increasing.
“It is my opinion that the wave of
sobriety immediately after the after the War is now moving in the opposite
direction, and drunkenness is increasing.” Mr Gerald France: “In what class of
community is this drunkenness most observable?” Mr Farndale: “Among the
middle-aged. There is not much drunkenness among young people, I am pleased to
say.” “Would you attribute to the clubs a certain proportion of this
drunkenness?” “Very much of it. The publican takes great care not to permit
drunkenness on his premises. I contend that where drink is sold and consumed
the law should apply equally throughout.” Mr Farndale concluded that he
welcomed the tide house system, as it led to better supervision.
The Edinburgh Evening News, 22 January
1930: SIGNALS TO BARMAIDS. GINGER ALE WITH A DUIFFERENCE.
INCREASED DRUNKENNESS. Mystic signals between barmaids and customers
were referred to before the royal Commission on licencing in London today. Mr.
J Farndale, Chief Constable Bradford, said that if the police visited a public
house in the afternoon one of the favourite drinks was ginger ale, and it was
difficult for the police to prove there were intoxicants in it. “There are
certain signs,” he declared, “between customer and barmaid or licensee when he
wants something in the ginger ale. It is my opinion,” added Mr Farndale, “that the
wave of sobriety immediately after the War is now moving in the opposite
direction and that drunkenness is increasing.”
There
were continued misogynist victorian views of women and drinking. The Western Daily Press 22 January 1930: DOES MODERN WOMAN DRINK MORE?
SHE NOW VISITS PUBLIC HOUSES OPENLY. BUT USED TO ENTER BACK DOOR SLYLY.
OPINIONS VARY. … WHEN THEY ENTERED SLYLY. Evidence before the Royal Commission
on licencing yesterday concerned the sobriety or otherwise of modern women, and
their changed attitude to public houses. It was claimed by the Rhonda
Stipendary Magistrate, that the Welsh women were sober, and that few visited
licenced houses, but the Hull Stipendiary expressed the opinion that
whereas women once entered public houses slightly by the back door, they now
visited them quite openly and such drinking was more in evidence.... Mr J R
MacDonald, Stipendary Magistrate for Hull, giving evidence, said “A decent
woman has not the same feeling about going into a public house as she had when
I was a youngster. I was shocked, as a young man, when I saw a woman going
into a public house. I do not think I would be shocked nowadays.” Dealing
with the general question of drinking by women, and referring particularly to
wife desertion, Mr Joseph Farndale, chief constable of Bradford, said that the
number of cases in which it was alleged that drink had caused recourse to
proceedings under the Married Women Acts was almost negligible. Drinking by
women on licenced premises is more in evidence today. At one time women entered
public houses slyly by the back door. Today they enter quite openly by the
front door.”
The Shipley Times and Express, 1
February 1930: POLICE DENY ROUGH METHODS. At a meeting of the Bradford
Corporation Watch Committee, on Friday of last week, a long discussion took
place on the allegation put forward by the Trades Council, at the instance of
the Shipley Trades Council that police officers in the Bradford Force had used unduly
rough method methods to women on picket duty during the recent strike at
Lunds Mill, Bolton Woods, Frizinghall. The chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale,
submitted reports denying these allegations. A resolution was passed
supporting the claim that the allegations were unfounded.
There
was a bit of a ‘spat’ between Joseph and an inspectior at an Inquiry in March
1930. The Leeds Mercury, 20 March 1930: POLICE CHIEF AND AN INSPECTOR.
CONFLICT AT A LEEDS INQUIRY. The Chief Constable of Bradford, Mr. J Farndale,
and Mr. J Atkinson, an inspector of the ministry of transport, came into
conflict at the hearing, at the education offices, Leeds, yesterday, at an
appeal by Messrs Wood Brothers (Blackpool) Limited against the refusal of Leeds
Corporation and the Corporations of Bradford and Halifax to grant licences to
three of their motor buses to ply for hire between Blackpool, Blackburn,
Halifax, Bradford, and Leeds. The “breeze” occurred when the chief constable
of Bradford was dealing with Bradford's position. The Inspector had
intimated he was concerned with the Blackburn route to Blackpool and had not
with all the alternative routes, and that as the appellant’s original
application showed this route, the route must be considered. Mr Farndale said the
Bradford Watch Committee had only been concerned with the application as to a
through service. They had considered nothing more than a through passenger
service between Bradford and Blackpool. The inspector: “Do you mean that the
Watch Committee as a statutory committee did not consider the conditions
contained in the companies letter?” “That is so.” The inspector: “Am I to
report to the minister that the chief constable of Bradford informs me that the
conditions upon which these licences were asked were not laid before the
committee?” “Was the letter laid before your committee?” “No”. No attempt to
mislead. The Inspector added he would not have it said that the chief constable
was the person who suggested that licences should be issued. Being in a
statutory position, the committee had a duty to act in a judicial manner,
and the opinion of an official was not evidence on which they could act. Mr
Farndale: “All these applications all set out on the agenda, giving the name of
the firm, and the destination. I give the existing services, and so on, and all
and that the committee can come to their decision.” The Inspector: “Would
not that be misleading if they did not have the formal evidence before them?”
“I have never misled my committee, and I do not intend to do so.”
Evidence was given on behalf of Halifax corporation as to the services already
in existence. This concluded the inquiry. There was a similar report in The Yorkshire Post and Leeds
Intelligencer, 20 March 1930: BUS LICENCES TO BLACKPOOL. BRADFORD CHIEF CONSTABLE AND
INSPECTOR. ‘BREEZE’ AT INQUIRY.
The Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 5 April 1930: BRADFORD BUSES TO MANCHESTER.
INQUIRY INTO REFUSAL TO GRANT LICENCE. COMMITTEE PROCEDURE. The refusal of the
Bradford corporation licencing committee to granted licence to message on Hurst
and Co of Ripponden near Halifax, to run a bus service between Bradford and
Manchester was the subject of administrative transport inquiry at Bradford
yesterday.... The chief constable, Mr. J farndale, said the committee were
guided by the public demand for these licences...
The Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 14 May 1930: SAFETY FIRST. LEEDS COOPERATION
IN THE NATIONAL WEEK. Leeds safety first council is cooperating in the
National Safety first the National Safety week, from Monday next until May
21.... a similar campaign is to be held in Bradford, commencing on Sunday, with
a service at Eastbrook hall, to be addressed by the West Riding organiser, Mr T
Goodall, with the Chief Constable of Bradford, Mr J Farndale in the chair....
Noise
pollution from loud gramaphones was an issue in December 1930. The Leeds Mercury, 11 December 1930: DISTURBING ELEMENTS. The Chief
Constable of Bradford, Mr Joseph Farndale, has received complaints from
various people of grammar phones and wireless loud speakers being on operated
in such a way as to become annoying. I can sympathise with those people who
have made the complaints, writes the Bradford correspondent, for up to a short
time ago I myself was a victim of such suffering. I live at a point on which
the sound waves from three gramophones were focused. On one occasion the
gramophones played simultaneously, “It ain't gonna rain no more,” “Everyone
calls me Tarzan,” and “I parted my hair in the middle.” At the same time a
piano broadcast: “Won't you buy my pretty flowers?”. The climax came, and this
was one of the reasons for my having since removed, when a young man next door
started a jazz band.
Traffic Commissioner 1930 to 1938
The Sheffield Daily Telegraph 16
December 1930 (and reported in multiple newspapers): Mr Joseph Farndale, the Chief
Constable of Bradford, has been appointed the traffic commissioner for
Yorkshire.
The Leeds Mercury, 16 December 1930: TRAFFIC CHIEF IN YOPRKSHIRE. MR
J FARNDALE APOINTED. The chief constable of Bradford, Mr Joseph Farndale, has
been appointed chairman of the traffic commissioners for Yorkshire by the
Ministry of Transport. He will take up his duties on January 1, and his resignation
as chief constable will be considered by the corporation Watch Committee on
Friday. Mr Farndale’s new headquarters will be in Leeds. Mr Farndale,
who was born in 1864, has been chief constable at Bradford for 30 years. He was
educated at the Fieldhouse Academy, Aberford, and at 19 forsook chemistry for
the police force, joining the Halifax force as a constable. Promotion came
quickly and it was when he was second in command that he was appointed to the
position of chief constable Margate, where he spent five years. In 1897 he left
Margate to be chief constable of York, and three years later he came to fill a
similar position at Bradford. At the end of the War Mr Farndale received the
honour of CBE. Mr Farndale will always be remembered in Bradford police circles
for the work he has done in the interests of his men. He was responsible
for the formation of the Bradford City police band, acknowledged to be one of
the foremost combinations of its kind in the north. It was due to him that many
of the recreative sides of the force came into existence.
The Sheffield Daily Telegraph, 18
December 1930: TRAFFIC COMMISSIONERS. CAN YORKSHIRE CHAIRMAN SPEAK
YORKSHIRE? Asked by Mr Thomas Snowden whether he was now in a position to
announce the appointment of the chairman of the traffic commissioners for
Yorkshire and eastern areas, Mr Herbert Morrison said he had appointed Mr. J
Farndale CBE at present Chief Constable Bradford. Sir Haviland Hiley, KBE,
whose appointment he announced on December 10th, would be the chairman of the
Eastern Area. Mr. T Snowden: “Can he say if Mr Farndale is a Yorkshireman?”
Mr Morrison: “Yes, Sir.” Mr Snowden: “Can he speak the Yorkshire language?”
(Laughter). There was no answer.
There
was contorversy, particularly in the Socialist Party about appointing a retired
Chief Constable, entitled to a two thirds of salary pension to a salaried role
of Traffic Commissioner. The Nottingham Journal 18 December 1930: Newspaper House, Wednesday
night. The announcement made today of the appointment of the last of the
nine commissioners under the new traffic act is unpopular with the Labour Party.
West Riding with socialist members in particular told me that they have no
personal objection to the chief constable Bradford becoming the commissioner
for their area. On the contrary, if they had their way Mr Farndale would have
been more greatly honoured some time ago. Socialists generally, however, are
uneasy for the preservation of the principle of one man one job or put it more
accurately, one man one income. So many of these new commissioners
appointed by Mr Morrison have been gentlemen with substantial pensions
in addition to the very adequate salaries their new posts carry. It is
inconceivable to them that efficient men could not have been found from among
those who were not eligible for retiring pensions. As it is, the minister has
not satisfied his colleagues with having looked far beyond the services and the
bar for men who, after all, will be required to exercise more than purely
prohibitive functions. There are other things in the spirit of the Traffic Act beyond ensuring clean number plates
and an insurance certificate. Is it possible that there are no organisers
outside the police or War Office? Anyway, the socialists tell me they intend to
try to find this out at Question Time tomorrow.
The Leeds Mercury 17 December 1930: YORKSHIRE’S NEW TRAFFIC CHIEF. The
members of the Bradford City police force learnt with mixed feelings of the
appointment of their chief constable, Mr Joseph Farndale, as chairman of the
traffic commissioners for Yorkshire. They will be the first to congratulate
him, but they will also be the first to regret his departure from the
city. For “the Chief” is loved by them all. I have been in contact
with members of the Bradford force now for many years, and always I have
heard him referred to in the to in terms of the deepest admiration and respect.
Those under him who have had to go into the long room he occupies immediately
under the town hall clock, and offer explanations in reply to his searching
questions, are probably the loudest in their praise of him. They say of him
that he will always listen to a “straight tale,” that he is scrupulously
fair, ready to afford a second and often third chance, and that none
but the deliberate liar need fear him. This is the third appointment under the new Road Act to go to an applicant from Yorkshire.
The Yorkshire Post and Leeds
Intelligencer 19 December 1930: YORKSHIRE TRAFFIC POST. QUESTION ABOUT SALARY OF MR
FARNDALE. Mr H Morrison, Minister of Transport, replying to Mr longbottom,
Socialist, Halifax, said that Mr Farndale, chief constable of Bradford, had
been appointed by him as chairman of the traffic commissioners for Yorkshire
for a term of three years at a salary of £1,000 per annum. He was 65 years
old and would, he understood, be entitled to a pension in respect of his
past service in the police force on the usual scale.
The Leeds Mercury 19 December 1930: SALARY AND PENSION. BRADFORD
SOCIALISTS CRITICISE MR FARNDALE’S APPOINTMENT. The appointment of Mr Joseph
Farndale, chief constable Bradford, as chairman of the traffic commissioners of
Yorkshire, was criticised at a meeting of Bradford trades council tonight.
Resolutions were being discussed for submission to a conference of Yorkshire
Federated Trades Councils, to be held at Sheffield. A Brighouse resolution
expressed the opinion that where an adequate pension was paid upon retirement,
it should be made a condition that the recipient did not engage in paid
employment. Mr. James Harrison, a socialist member of Bradford City
council, said that Bradford was providing a bad example of what should not be
done. A corporation official whose pension on leaving would be about £880 per
annum, had been appointed to another position at a salary of £1,000. As a
council, they had always been opposed to retired policeman of any rank taking
positions and it was altogether out of reason that such a thing should be done
when there were between two and three millions of unemployed in the country.
A
reflection as he ended his career as Chief Constable reflected on the old days,
and the more recent innovations of the Police Box, the Flying Squad and the use
of police radios. The Leeds Mercury, 20 December 1930: ROBERT IS DIFFERENT SAYS MR
JOSEPH FARNDALE. THIRTY YEARS A CHIEF. From our Bradford Staff, Friday. 30
years a chief constable. It is a big slice out of a man's life. For so long has
Mr Joseph Farndale been Chief Constable of Bradford, and when, at the Watch
Committee meeting this afternoon, he handed in his resignation to take effect
at the year end, thus enabling him to take his appointment as Chairman of the
Traffic Commissioners for Yorkshire, he found the wrench hard to make.
One who was there, said afterwards, “When he referred to his men and their
loyalty to him he could hardly speak, and was almost in tears.” He himself
said, “To part with my men now is like parting with one's family.”
Before the meeting, he talked with a Mercury reporter of his 30 years as a
chief constable. Since 1900, he said, the strength of the Bradford force
have been increased by 75%, pay of a police constable by 140%, and the higher
ranks had also received considerable percentage increases. “The duties of a
policeman have increased enormously in importance, and today we are
recruiting men of a class totally different from that of 30 years ago. We
have degree men in the force, and we draw from the secondary schools.
Recruits before they become constables, are given an intensive training
which did not exist when I became chief.” Thirty years ago the duties of a
policeman in Bradford were occupied largely with rowdies in certain parts of
the city, which were known for the violence of the characters frequenting them.
The helmet was needed to save the old time policeman's head from violence.
It was his crash helmet, protecting him from the sticks and weapons of
hooligans. Such protection is seldom required now, said Mr Farndale, the city
is practically quiet. As time went by the police forces had to equip themselves
to deal with the problems presented by a modern world. Fast moving traffic
came. The crooks made full use of it. The police checkmate was the
Flying Squad. Mr Farndale was the first chief constable to realise that
the old type of police stations were out of date. The modern crook moves so
quickly that unless he is caught red handed, the chances of capture dwindle. So
Mr Farndale scrapped all the old police stations in Bradford and planned 100
fully equipped police boxes on the very doorsteps of the citizens. By using
the police box system, he said, citizens can obtain the assistance of
the police almost at a moment’s notice. Now experiments are going on to
ascertain the extent to which the police can make use of wireless in the
detection and prevention of crime. The questions of secret wavelengths and
codes has to be considered. Experiments are being conducted in Bradford
with wireless vans, which will mature in the very near future. Such vans
would be able to patrol the city at regular periods of the day, receiving
instructions from headquarters by wireless, and acting on them without
being under the necessity of making points at given times. The hooligans of the
old days who committed crime crimes of violence against the person were often
caught red handed. The type of crime prevailing today, however, requires
great investigative investigation qualities, hence our detective department
department with its highly qualified staff. Mr Farndale paid a warm tribute
to his detectives. Bradford, he said, is fortunate in having a very
efficient effect detective staff in the charge of Superintendent Petty, who
started his police career in the same year that I was appointed Chief
Constable. No murder of recent years has gone undetected. What of the
police force 30 years hence? “I do not see that there can be any greater
demand on the intelligence of the police force of the future than there is
today,” he said. “full advantage, of course, will have to be taken off
scientific developments.” Mr Farndale believes in the local force doing its
job without calling in outside aid. “It is not altogether what a detective
knows,” he said. “it is what he can get to know. People are more likely to
give information and assistance to them to men they know, representing
their own force, rather than to a stranger. I believe in the local force doing
its own job when it is as efficient as that of the Bradford force, which has
never failed yet.”
His
funny stories were still the same stories as he always told (see the same
stories told on 9 April 1914)! The Leeds Mercury 24 December 1930: ON THE BEAT. Chatting with Mr
Joseph Farndale who is resigning his post as chief constable of Bradford to
take up his appointment as Chairman of the Traffic Commissioners for Yorkshire,
I was told two good stories of recruits of his early days. One of these
recruits had been appointed to a beat, but he failed to make his point with the
Sergeant. A search was made. The Sergeant found him at home. “What on earth are
you doing here?” asked the Sergeant. “Why” said the recruit “there's nobody out
on a night like this!” The other story concerns a recruit who had been told to
devote himself to patrolling a number of buildings. It was estimated that to do
the tour of the buildings with efficiency and thoroughness would take an hour,
so the Sergeant said “Your job is to walk eight times round.” In three hours,
the recruit turned up at the police station. “I'm going home now,” he said.
“I've been round eight times.”
1931
Joseph
Farndale began his duties as Chairman of the Yorkshire Traffic Commissioners on
1 January 1931, which coinccided with the commencement of the new Road Act and
the end of the unobserved 20mph speed limit. The Yorkshire Post and Leeds
Intelligencer, 2 January 1931: COMMISSIONERS IN CHARGE. Mr Joseph Farndale, Chairman of
Commissioners for the Yorkshire traffic area, began his duties yesterday at the
Area Headquarters, 5 Swinegate, Leeds. The Commissioners, only the chairman of
whom has been appointed, are the first occupants of the new offices,
comprising 3 floors and a basement directed by the Leeds Corporation as a
frontage to the extension of these Swinegate tramway depot. All official
communication should be addressed to Mr Jr Williams, clerk to the
commissioners, at that address. So far as outward appearances go, writes the
motoring correspondence of the Yorkshire Post, the operation of the new Act
appears to have little or no visible effect. This is due, of course, to the
fact that the abolition of the speed limit is more a matter of legal
definition than of actual practise, as the old speed limit of 20 miles
an hour has not been observed for years past. Observation of the road
yesterday, therefore, disclosed but little, if any alteration. Nor did reports
received by the Automobile Association and the automobile club from their
scouts indicate any change of behaviour.
The Road Traffic Act 1930 for the
‘control of traffic on the roads’ followed the Royal Commission report on
transport. Speedometers on cars were made compulsory from 1932 and speed limits
for cars were removed because ‘the existing speed limit was so universally
disobeyed that its maintenance brought the law into contempt. At the same time,
the Third Parties (Rights against Insurers) Act 1930 protected motorists who
suffered accidents.
The
debate about Joseph’s appointment after his retirement from the police
continued. The Leeds Mercury, 16 January 1931: ‘MUCH MALIGNED MAN’. Mr F
Radcliffe said Mr Farndale was a much maligned man both from the
democratic and municipal points of view. So far as the new appointment was
concerned there was not a better man in the district for the job. Mr J W
Flanigan, who also paid tribute to Mr Farndale, said the country was run by
permanent officials. Mr A R Ellis said if the resolution was passed it would
“tacked upon an individual.” The real feeling of the meeting was that they were
opposed to the appointment of men who were passed the retiring age to highly
remunerative posts, when they were already entitled to retire on pensions
of something like £800 a year. He moved the successful amendment that a
deputation be appointed to meet the Minister of Transport to hear his side of
the story.
The Leeds Mercury, 16 January 1931: FROM OUR BRADFORD STAFF. A
resolution brought by Bradford Typographical Society to Bradford Trades Council
tonight, protesting against the appointment of the former Chief Constable of
Bradford, Mr Joseph Farndale, to the position of chairman of the Yorkshire
Traffic Commissioners, was deferred, and amendment, proposing that a deputation
should meet Mr Herbert Morrison, Minister of Transport, on the matter, was
carried. Mr Morrison is to visit Bradford shortly. Commenting on the
resolution, a delegate said they were tackling the thing at the wrong end. It
was useless bothering their heads about people getting situations in which
there was no scope for the working class. They should occupy themselves with
the question of constables retiring on pension and filling jobs which could be
filled by the unemployed. Another delegate said they were not concerned with
this appointment in particular. It was the whole system that was wrong. It was
likely that Mr Farndale's appointment had been suggested to the minister by
some permanent officials.
The Halifax Evening Courier 16 January
1931: DEPUTATION TO MINISTER. BRADFORD TRADES COUNCIL AND
TRAFFIC APPOINTMENTS. A suggestion that the Bradford Trades Council should
protest against the appointment of the Chief Constable of the city, Mr. J
Farndale, as Traffic Commissioner, was made at the meeting of the council last
night. One of the grounds of the protest was that Mr Farndale “he is already
entitled to inadequate retiring allowance.” …
The Shipley Times and Express 17
January 1931: COUNCILLOR T J GRAY AND THE GOVERNMENT. HAS TO BE FORCED
TO DFO THINGS. CRITICISM OF TRANSPORT APPOINTMENTS. Speaking at the annual
meeting of the Shipley Trades and Labour Council, at which Mr. J Hudson
presided on Tuesday, Councillor TJ Grey JP, chairman of the Shipley Urban
Council, frankly stated his views with regard to the present state of
unemployment..... “Some steps ought to be taken,” he said “to organise
labour against the attitude of the government of this country in giving jobs
to men like Farndale, of Bradford, and Chamberlain, of Leeds, who are in
receipt of big fat pensions, and who are going on to ages of 70 and 75 at
£1000 a year salaries.”...
The Leeds Mercury 22 January 1931: MR FARNDALE’S PENSION. HALIFAX
MEMBER ASKED QUESTIONS IN COMMONS. Mr Longbottom, Socialist, Halifax cover asked
the Minister of Transport, in the House of Commons yesterday, whether
seeing he has appointed Mr Joseph Farndale CBE ex chief constable of Bradford,
to be chairman of the traffic commissioners for Yorkshire, he will state the
amount per and that Mr Farndale will receive in pension for past services in
the police force. Mr Morrison said he understood the usual practise was to
grant 2/3 of salary for pension purposes, and as Mr Farndale’s salary was
£1,250, presumably he would get about £800 a year. Ministerial ministerial
cries of “oh.”. Mr Longbottom asked the Minister if he would see that in all
appointments of inspectors and examiners under the Road Traffic Act 1930, they should be persons not in
receipt of pensions from positions previously held. Mr Morrison went on “I
will bear in mind the suggestion of the honourable member, with which I am
in general sympathy, but the predominant consideration must be the selection
of the best qualified candidate in each case.” Mr Farndale is to have
£1,000 a year for his new work.
Joseph
Farndale was given a good send off from the Bradford Police. The Yorkshire Post and Leeds
Intelligencer, 6 February 1931:
FAREWELL TO CHIEF CONSTABLE.
BRADFORD’S OFFICERS’ TRIBUTES TO MR FARNDALE.
Over 300 officers and men of the
Bradford City police force and Bradford special constablry paraded at the Belle
Vue Barracks, Bradford, yesterday, when presentations were made to Mr Joseph
Farndale, chief constable of the city for 30 years, and now chairman of the
Yorkshire Traffic Commissioners, and Mrs Farndale, who, unfortunately, was
unable to be present. Chief Superintendent Johnson presented to Mr Farndale a
silver plate, which is to be attached to a mahogany wardrobe, the gifts
of the officers and men of the regular force, and also a Rose Bowl
on behalf of the Bradford City Police Athletic Club.
Expressing gratitude at the treatment
received by the force from Mr Farndale, Chief Superintendent Johnson said the
Chief’s view had always been prompted by justice and fairness, and they
would remember him for his humanity and enthusiasm. They wished him
success in his new position, and hoped he and Mrs Farndale would have health
and prosperity for many years to come. (Applause). Superintendent Turner,
Superintendent Chapman, Chief Inspector Bowden, who referred to the many
occasions when he had had to approach Mr Farndale with requests on behalf of
the men, and Sergeant Cook also spoke. Mr Frank Greenwood, deputy chairman of
the Corporation Watch Committee and chairman of the Special Constabulary,
presented Mr Farndale with a cut glass electric reading lamp on behalf
of the Specials. Mr Greenwood said Mr Farndale had given the Specials every
assistance he could. Mr E Hoyle, treasurer, Mr W Taylor and Superintendent
Taylor also spoke for the Specials.
Expressing thanks, Mr Farndale said
that if a man took on the position he had held for so long simply for the
remuneration he would be a decided failure. He must have the heart and mind
to do right to those who honoured him with their confidence, and go beyond the
question of LSD. He had felt that from the first day he joined the service, and
had tried to recruit into the service men of that class, not men who were
simply seeking a job for the remuneration, but men with the best intention
of serving the public to the best of their ability. That had been his
guide, and he had still to find a decided failure. That was what made him proud
at the moment. Referring to the value of the special constables, Mr
Farndale said they had set an example which ought to be followed not by
hundreds but by thousands of men in the city. On behalf of the Police, Mr
Farndale then presented gold watches to two Bradford boys who helped
acting Sergeant Downey in apprehending a thief on December 13. The boys were
Douglas James Walton, 15, and Ernest William Mullin, both of Fitzgerald Street.
The Leeds Mercury 06 February 1931: BRADFORD CHIEF CONSTABLE’S
FAREWELL. “No matter where I am, I shall be a policeman to the end of my
time. I cannot help it. I was practically born into the service, and
I shall die in the service, although I may not be an active member”. In those
words Mr Joseph Farndale for 30 years chief constable Bradford, said farewell
to his men as they stood, forming a great square of blue, at Belle Vue barracks
yesterday afternoon. It was an occasion all those present will remember, the
final March, the old “Chief” standing at the salute, and then the police
band playing “Auld Lang Syne.” “I leave my reputation in your hands, and I
leave it wholeheartedly because I know you will never fail. He said “I want my
successor to realise that the men I have put in service, and the officers I have
promoted, are the right men to serve this city, and that they will continue to
serve it to the end of their day.”
And so
Joseph Farndale’s work as Chairman of the Yorkshire Traffic Commissioners began. LNER OPPOSITION. SHEFFIELD TO
SKEGNESS MOTOR COACH SERVICE. When the Yorkshire Area Traffic Commissioners,
under the chairmanship of Mr. J Farndale, resumed their public sitting at
Sheffield yesterday, the United Motor Services applied for a renewal of a
licence for a service between Sheffield and Skegness, Mablethorpe and Sutton on
sea....
The Trafic Commissioners for Great Britain were responsible
for the licensing and regulation of the operators of heavy goods vehicles,
buses and coaches, and the registration of local bus services within Great
Britain (not the whole of the UK). Hansard, Volume 244, 5 November 1930 defined The main duties to be
performed by the Area Traffic Commissioners, otherwise than in the Metropolitan
Traffic Area, may he summarised as follows: (1) The granting of public service
vehicle licences and the inspection of such vehicles from the point of view of
fitness and suitability; (2) The granting and backing of road service licences
and the attaching of conditions thereto for the control and co-ordination of
passenger services by road; (3) The granting of licences to drive or to act as
conductor of a public service vehicle; (4) The granting of consents to local
authorities to operate public service vehicles on routes outside their areas
under Part V of the Act; (5) Advising the Minister on orders made by local
authorities under Section 90 of the Act in respect of the routes, stopping
places, parking places and stands for public service vehicles; (6) All matters
incidental to the above such as: (a) The holding of public sittings for the
hearing of applications for, and objections to, the grant or backing of road
service licences and for other purposes; (b) The collection of fees; (c) The
keeping of accounts and records; (d) The presentation of an annual report, etc.
The Leeds Mercury, 3 June 1931: TRAFFIC BIG THREE. COMMISSIONERS
AT WORK. Leeds had its first experience yesterday of the new Traffic
Commission which will play a vital part in the development of this country in
the next few years. Three elderly gentlemen, plainly dressed and
serious looking, sat on the bench occupied at other times by a High Court
judge. They combine both executive and judicial functions. Their
jurisdiction embraces over 4000 motor buses over 6000 drivers. On semi
circular benches in front of them were other gentlemen, piles of papers, plans
and maps. High above the jury box hung a huge map of Leeds covered
with wriggling lines in gay colours. Beneath, alone, was a young man who
rose from time to time and prodded the map with long pointer. The court also
contains shorthand writers, clerks and three people in the public gallery. The
presiding commissioner, Mr Joseph Farndale, was formerly chief constable of
Bradford. He is white haired. Without his moustache he would look like some
of the assize judges who have often occupied that chair. He speaks slowly,
giving weight to every word.
The Leeds Mercury 06 June 1931: JOURNIES TO THE SEA.
Applications to run express services between Leeds, and Blackpool, Morecambe,
Scarborough, Filey and Bridlington were made by Mrs R Bark (Leeds) Limited. Mr
Barr said he had taken at a yearly average of 16,000 people to Blackpool at the
August bank holiday and at August bank holiday used as many as 40 coaches, some
obtained from other companies by arrangement, on the Blackpool route alone. Mr
Farndale remarked that they were very much concerned about the congestion on
the roads at bank holiday times, particularly on the roads to Blackpool.
They had had such alarming reports. Congestion had to be dealt with by
the Commissioners and it was felt important for them to find out the number of
vehicles likely to be on the roads at these rush periods. A railway official
gave evidence that the number of passengers from Leeds to Blackpool by rail had
decreased from 146,000 in 1927 to 127,000 in 1930. Receipts in the same period
had gone down from £36,416 to £23,534.
It
soon became necessary to define an ‘excursion’. The Yorkshire Post and Leeds
Intelligencer 6 June 1931: AN EXCURSION BY MOTOR BUS. TRAFFIC COMMISSIONERS
DEFINITION. EMBARRASSING POINT. Particular interest in the sitting of the
Yorkshire traffic commissioners at the town hall, Leeds yesterday lay in the
first announcement of a definition of “excursion”. The word itself does
not occur in the Road Act, but the traffic commissioners have issued forms of application
for licences for “excursions and tours” as well As for stage carriages and
express carriages. Mr. J Farndale, the presiding commissioner, said yesterday,
at the opening of the session, that it might benefit to the public to know the
exact meaning the Commission is applied to the term. They had decided that
an excursion was “a journey to and from a specified destination to be completed
in one day in at an inclusive fare.” in other words it was a day trip. The
condition should be attached to all licences issued by the commissioners...
The Liverpool Daily Post, 6 June 1931: ‘EXCURSION’ A DAY TRIP ONLY.
BOMBSHELL FOR MOTOR COACH OWNERS. RULING UPSETS SUMMER PROGRAMMES. A ruling
given yesterday by the Yorkshire Traffic Commissioners, sitting at Leeds
town hall, as to what constitutes an excursion coach for the purposes of
a traffic licence, came as a bombshell to a number of applicants. The
chairman, Mr Joseph Farndale, said an excursion was a journey to an from that
specified destination, to be completed in one day as an inclusive fare; In
other words, it was to be a day trip, and a condition to that effect would be
put on all licences granted in respect of applications for permission run
excursions.
The Yorkshire Post and Leeds
Intelligencer, 13 August 1931: FOUR SEAT CARS. In reply to Mr Beaumont, for the opposing
bus companies, Mr straker said he held it to be quite possible to run a public
service with a four seater car. If his application was granted he was prepared
to purchase six and seven seater cars. Mr Beaumont: “do you think for strangers
who have never seen each other before would find a journey to Blackpool
attractive?” “I do”. The chief come the chief commissioner, Mr. J farndale:
“the sex it will be mixed. Moment came at: “well, that will make it more
attractive.” laughter....
The Sheffield Daily Telegraph, 14
August 1931: ‘PEOPLE LIKE NICE BUSES’. SHEFFIELD APPLICANT’S POINT FOR
TRAFFIC COMMISSIONERS. Before the Yorkshire traffic commissioners at York
yesterday, Mr JF Skelton of gleadless, Sheffield, applied for an existing
service between works workshop and Sheffield to be increased from A2 hourly
service to an hourly service... Mr EP merit for Ellen yard ask the applicant
what reason he had for suggesting that it was the object to the bus company to
drive the passengers to the railway. Applicant: “well, I know the railways are
not doing very well.” the chief commissioner, Mr. J farndale: “are you a
shareholder?” “no”. Laughter. The applicant said that people had remarked to
him that they preferred to ride in nice bosses like his rather than the grey
green railway buses....
The Sheffield Daily Telegraph, 30
September 1931: Co-op Tours – Dividend Question raised. At a sitting of
the Yorkshire Traffic Commissioners at Leeds, when the Pendleton Co-operative
Society made application to make excursions and tours through the Yorkshire
area to York, Scarborough and Bolton Abbey, the Chairman, Mr Joseph Farndale
asked “to whom is the dividend credited on the fares for these tours?” … Mr
Farndale “There is a funeral branch, and you can get a dividend on that.”
The Leeds Mercury 6 June 1931: “Day Trip” says Mr Farndale Declining
the granting of ‘period excursions”, Mr Joseph Farndale, Chairman of the
Commissioners, during yesterday’s sitting in Leeds Town Hall, gave the official
definition of an excursion as a “journey to and from a specified definition to
be completed in one day at an inclusive fare – a day trip”
The Sheffield Daily Telegraph, 13 April
1931: Nearly 60 applications to run excursions and tours and
to vary conditions of bus services were made o the Yorkshire Area Traffic
Commissioners (MR Joseph Farndale and Alderman J Law) at Sheffield Town Hall
yesterday.
The Yorkshire Post and Leeds
Intelligencer, 12 November 1931: BUS TO LEEDS WORKS. FARES COLLECTED BY GIRL PASSENGER.
The Leeds Corporation objected, before the Yorkshire Area Traffic Commissioners
yesterday, to the granting of licence to Mrs Smallpage of Leeds, for the
running of a bus service from Easy Road to Hudson Rd. The applicant desired in
the main to serve people wanting to go to the works of Messrs Montague Burke
Burton. Mr H R MacDowell on behalf of the Corporation asked Mr Smallpage, who
appeared for the applicant, how he collected his fares. Mr Smallpage: “I get
one of the girls to collect them.” “How do you check them?” “I think there is a
bit of honesty left in the world.” The chairman, Mr.J Farndale: “and you think
this girl is that bit of honesty?”...
The Derbyshire Times, 12 December 1931: Chesterfield some time ago
provided Brighton with its town clerk in the person of Mr J H Rothwell CBE.
Brighton has now furnished Chesterfield with its new chief constable in the
person of Superintendent Wells. In a letter to the editor of this journal Mr
Rothwell says “i have not released out that the Watch Committee, the council
and the ratepayers generally in West Chesterfield will very soon be satisfied
that they had secured in their new chief constable a man who is possessed of
all the attributes which they have the right to expect in a selected candidate
for such a responsible position.” It is remarkable how in the past Chesterfield
has been the jumping off ground for many important positions... in the person of
Mr Farndale, the uncle of the late chief constable of Bradford, who is now
traffic commissioner for the Midland area...
1932
The Sheffield
Independent, 9 March 1932: CASTLEGATE AS A
‘BUS TOUR CENTRE’. SHEFFIELD CORPORATION WISH. OWNERS OBJECT. Sheffield
Corporations wish that the new thoroughfare, Castlegate, should be used as the
starting point for all excursions and tours from the centre of the city met
with little enthusiasm from motor coach owners at a sitting of the Yorkshire
area traffic commissioners at Sheffield town hall yesterday... During the
questions about fares charged for running to Doncaster races, the Chairman, Mr.
J Farndale, said the commissioners had had operators in the district attend a
conference so that there could be cooperation and agreement...
The Sheffield Daily Telegraph, 23
September 1932: BUS EXCURSIONS. SHEFFIELD OBJECTION TO THE PROPOSED FARE. …
1933
The Yorkshire Post and Leeds
Intelligencer 11 January 1933: TO BLACKPOOL. VIEW THAT TRAFFIC IS TOO HEAVY. During a
public sitting of the Yorkshire traffic commissioners in Leeds yesterday, the
chairman, Mr Joseph Farndale, made an important announcement in regard to the large
number of road services to Blackpool. The commissioners had before them a
long series of applications for road service licences to continue existing
stage and express services to Blackpool from Leeds, Sheffield, Chesterfield and
various places in the West Riding. “Have you had an opportunity of considering
the statistics sent in by the applicants”, Mr Farndale said, “The commissioners
had come to the conclusion that the Blackpool traffic was still too heavy
during the winter months. They suggested that the various operators on the
route should endeavour to enter into a working agreement, covering the
winter season, whereby some of the traffic might be eliminated, for some of the
services were obviously running light. It is clear for the to the
commissioners, he added, that something will have to be done, and they would
rather that the operators themselves found some scheme than the commissioners
should have to force one upon them.
The Leeds Mercury, 11 January 1933: “TOO MANY ‘BUSES TO BLACKPOOL”.
An important announcement about the large number of bus services to Blackpool
was made at a sitting of the Yorkshire traffic commissioners in the town hall,
Leeds, yesterday by the chairman Mr Joseph Farndale...
The
controversy over Joseph Farnale’s pension and salary returned, when Halifax
refused to pay their share. The Leeds Mercury, 4 May 1933: HALIFAX COUNCIL JIB AT A
PENSION. Pointed comments were made at Halifax Town council meeting tonight
by Alderman A W Longbottom, ex MP for Halifax, respecting the half year’s
contribution to the pension of Mr Joseph Farndale, ex chief constable of
Bradford, and now chairman of the Yorkshire traffic commissioners. For some
time Mr Farndale was a police officer at Halifax before he went to
Bradford. Alderman Longbottom, Socialist, said for the past three years he
had opposed Mr Farndale's appointment to a post under the Minister of
Transport. He could not agree that the money of Halifax ratepayers should be
used towards paying a pension of nearly £900 a year to a man who is now in
receipt of a government appointment for which he got a salary of £1,200 a year.
He knew it could be said that the appointment was made by a Socialist
government, of which he, Alderman Longbottom, was a member. Mr Farndale was a
man who had been in a decent position all his working life, and when he was
considered to be too old to continue to perform the duties, a beneficial public
granted him a pension of £16 a week. Any person in receipt of a pension of such
a rate could not in any degree be considered to be lacking in the essentials of
life. But not content with that Mr Farndale applied for and was given a post
which could be filled by thousands of university trained men who were out of a
job. That should not be allowed to continue, and he asked the Council to say
they were not going to tolerate one man having a pension of £16 a week and that
appointment of £20 a week. The Mayor, Alderman William Crabtree, said he was
informed by the town clerk that they would have to pay it as it was an
instruction from the government. The town clerk, Mr P Saunders, said they
had to pay Bradford and Bradford had to pay ex chief constable Farndale, a
pension. Halifax had to pay their proportion based on the number of
years Mr Farndale served in Halifax. After Alderman Longbottom 's amendment
not to pay the salary had been carried, the Mayor added: “the amendment is
carried, but I don't think you will do any good by it.” (Laughter).
The Grimsby Daily Telegraph, 4 May 1933: THINGS THAT HAPPEN. A PENSION
AND A BIG SALARY. Halifax Town Council last night refused to sanction
the payment of £8 8s 6d for half yearly contribution to the pension
of Mr Joseph Farndale, ex chief constable of Bradford, who is now the chairman
of the Yorkshire Traffic Commissioners. Alderman A W Longbottom, moving at
resolution that the amount should not be paid, said he would not agree to
ratepayers money being used towards paying a pension of nearly £900 year to a
man now holding a government appointment for which he received a salary of
£1,200 a year. The town clerk, Mr P Saunders, said the Council were bound to
pay the contribution but the council voted against it.
The Leeds Mercury, 30 May 1933: WHERE THEY ARE GREAT TRAVELLERS.
Perhaps the unconscious humour of some of the witnesses keeps them fresh. As
for example the man from Bramham who declared that Bramham folk travelled a
lot: they even went as far as Harrogate sometimes. And the man from Aberford
who took exception to the remark of Mr Joseph Farndale, the chief constable
commissioner, that Aberford had not changed for 50 years by pointing out that
at least three new houses had been built.
1934
But
Joseph Farndale was working very hard as Traffic Commissioner, so perhaps it
might be said that he was earning his salary. The Leeds Mercury 25 May 1934: MR FARNDALE’S BUSY DAYS. The
business of granting licences to road hauliers under the Road and Rail Traffic Act of
1933 is a long one, and I think that Mr Joseph Farndale, who is
the licencing authority for Yorkshire, ought to have the admiration and
sympathy of everybody for the hours he has to put in, listening to the
applications for licences and objections to the applications. On Wednesday
he sat over 5 hours, hearing 70 applications, and yesterday he sat 6 ½ hours,
hearing another 70; And today he has another 75 facing him.
The Road and Rail; Traffic Act 1933
was an Act to make provision for regulating the carriage of goods on, roads by
motor vehicles and for - controlling the use of vehicles on certain roads ; to
amend certain provisions of the Road Traffic Act, 1930; to amend the law
relating to railways
and to make provision for
constituting a council to advise on questions in connection with the means of,
and facilities for, transport ; and for purposes connected with the matters
aforesaid.
The Yorkshire Post and Leeds
Intelligencer 25 May 1934: When today’s cases have been heard Mr Joseph Farndale,
chairman of the licencing authority for the Yorkshire traffic area, will
have heard 220 applications within three days.… PUBLIC CARRIER LICENCES.
220 APPLICATIONS IN THREE DAYS AT LEEDS. Mr Joseph Farndale, chairman of the
licencing authority for the Yorkshire traffic area, had a six and a half
hour sitting in Leeds yesterday, following a five hours sitting in
the previous day. He was dealing with applications for “A” and “B” licences
from Hollyoaks, public carriers and haulage contractors. Yesterday he dealt
with about 70 applications, the previous day with 75 and another 73 will be
submitted to him today. An “A” licence application was made by Harry Lund
(Otley) Limited, Lords Road, Otley, who in addition to being removal and
heritage haulage contractors, are motor dealers …
The Yorkshire Post and Leeds
Intelligencer, 29 May 1934: … Mr Joseph Farndale, who used to be Chief Constable of
Bradford is blessed with a sense of humour, and so, too, are some of the
applicants, though they may have been unconscious that of the fact. An
applicant from a village near Scarborough was enumerating what he wanted to
carry in his vehicle. In his list were “carcasses” and the chairman
asked him what he meant by that. The applicant thought for a moment and then
ventured the explanation “dead carcasses.” eventually “carcasses” were
defined as “butchers meat.”
The Halifax Evening Courier, 24 July
1934: HE DRAWS THE FIRE ENGINE. When a Masham, North
Yorkshire, man applied for a licence from commercial vehicle at the licencing
authority court at Leeds, yesterday, he told the chairman, Mr Joseph Farndale,
that among his duties he had to draw the Masham fire engine to fires. Mr
Farndale: “What happens when a fire breaks out and your vehicle is 40 miles
away?” applicant: “They have to look for us or get us on the telephone.” Mr
Farndale: “You ask the fire to wait?” Applicant: “It is not often we
have a fire.” Applicant was granted a licence to carry farm produce, cattle
foods, corn, building materials, furniture and refreshments and was told by the
chairman that he would be allowed to draw the fire engine where and when
required.
The Leeds Mercury, 13 November 1934: BUSES FOR GIRL WORKERS. A
YORKSHIRE APPLICATION. The Yorkshire Traffic Commissioners, sitting in Leeds
yesterday, heard an application for a special short bus service in the early
morning to take young girls from Bradford to Messrs Henry Mason’s Mills, Shipley...
Mr F H Whittaker for the applicants Messrs B & B Tours Limited, said that
Masons had asked for a special service to take 28 girl work workers from
Bradford to Shipley at 5:40 AM and return them at night. A witness for
Messrs B & B Tours said that Messes Masons desired to offer proper
protection to the get young girls in the early morning in the late night
travel. Mr C R Hodgson for Allan yard company: “Do you think there is any
danger of the girls going wrong in between the station and the mill?”
(laughter). The Chairman, Mr J Farndale: “Is there any danger of the bus going
into the canal?” (laughter). The Chairman intimated that the application would
be considered.
The Shipley Times and Express, 17
November 1934: TO BE CONSIDERED. An application by B&B Tours Limited,
to run a special early morning and late night express carriage service between
the Alhambra, Bradford and Masons Mill, Shipley for a number of girls engaged
on special work at the mills, came before the Yorkshire Traffic Commissioners
on Monday. Mr F H Whitaker, for the applicants, said the operators wanted a
short period licence for 28 girls who live in Bradford. The mill owners had
decided to pay for the bus at a rate of 7s 6d a journey, and no deductions
would be made from the work people's wages. It might be held he contended that
there was no need to apply for a licence, as the carriage had been engaged at
contract rate. The operators wished to make the application in open court,
however, to ensure being on the right side of the law. A witness for the coach
company said from mill owners wanted to offer protection to the girls by
running the coach straight to the mill. Mr C R Hodgson, for the London and
northeastern railway company,: “Is there any danger of the girls going wrong at
that hour in the morning between the station and the milk?” (laughter). The
chairman, Mr Joseph Farndale: “Is there any danger of the bus going into the
canal?” (laughter). The witness added that though provisional arrangements had
been made to run the service for three months, it could be terminated by a
week's notice on either side. Mr Hodgson: “Do you say you will stop the service
if you were given a weeks notice?” Witness: “Yes, there will be no passengers.”
Mr Hodgson went on: “Do you realise that you are applying for an express
carriage licence for three months, and if the Authorities instruct you, your
duty will be to run the service?” The witness said the service would still be
run if the commissioners ordered them to continue it. Mr WH Leatham, for
Bradford Corporation, submitted that the operators were not particular about
how far the girls would have to travel in Bradford in order to join the bus at
the Alhambra. Mr Farndale: “They take the view perhaps that they are safe in
Bradford, but not outside.” (laughter). The application will be considered.
The Yorkshire Evening Post, 30 November
1934: A WALK OVER. LEEDS INQUIRY. APPLICATIONS THAT WERE NOT
OPPOSED. A strange, almost uncanny, peace reigned at today's public inquiry in
Leeds held by the licencing authority for the Yorkshire traffic area. For the
first time since these inquiries were instituted under the Road and Rail Traffic Act there were no experiences from the
railway companies to applications from road hauliers for licences for their
vehicles. The commissioner, Mr Joseph Farndale, instead of having to listen to
road hauliers and solicitors until late in the afternoon, heard 35 applications
in less than two hours...
The Leeds Mercury, 5 December 1934: A CRITIC IN LEEDS TRAFFIC COURT.
MR FARNDALE’S RETORT TO BARRISTER. A complaint against the way in which some
applications for commercial vehicles were presented was made yesterday by Mr G
Woodward, a barrister, representing the LME and LNE Railway companies, at a
sitting of the Yorkshire traffic licencing authority in Leeds … Mr Woodward
said evidence had been put to witnesses at such a speed that had been
impossible to take notes of all the points, some of which, might have been
contested by the railway companies. Referring to one application, he said, “In
this particular case we are in a difficulty. We know the final results, but it
is quite impossible for us to follow what the application really is. I must
admit I do not know yet what is in the application.” Mr. J Farndale, the
licencing authority, said, “Well I do. Please do not go on commenting about
the procedure of this court. I am the authority here, and it is for me to
say whether or not I think the applications are being properly presented.” …
1935
The Yorkshire Post and Leeds
Intelligencer 16 January 1935: ‘WAR OF THE ROSES.’ OPERATING LANCASHIRE ‘BUSES IN
YORKSHIRE. I have heard of this war of the roses before, said Mr Joseph
Farndale, chairman of the Yorkshire traffic commissioners, when an
application was heard at Sheffield today from a Lancashire road operator to
run excursions and tours from Yorkshire...
The Leeds Mercury, 31 January 1935. … At a sitting of the Authority
in Sheffield recently, Mr Farndale withheld his decision as to the licensing of
one lorry until he had heard evidence of a representative of this steel works,
for whom the applicants claim to have carried out extensive haulage.
The Leeds Mercury, 12 February 1935: To another applicant who
referred several times to his “fleet of vehicles” Mr Farndale said: “your
fleet consists of one vehicle doesn't such?”. “Two, Sir,” the applicant
replied. “Well, two, then.” said Mr Farndale. “but even that isn't a very large
fleet to command.”
The Leeds Mercury, 6 March 1935: SIR WILLIAM HART IN LEEDS AGAIN.
The work of the licencing of goods vehicles is getting heavier and heavier, and
I have already written about the long hours that Mr Joseph Farndale as
the Authority for the Yorkshire traffic area, puts in. This work, which is in
addition to the licencing of passenger vehicles, have become so heavy that a
deputy has been appointed and the appearance of Sir William iheart in that
position in Leeds yesterday was very interesting, since it marked the return of
one of Leeds most distinguished men.
1936
The Leeds Mercury, 4 June 1936: HAULAGE RATES AND STABILISATION.
SUGGESTED MOVE TO PREVENT PRICE CUTTING. A move towards stabilisation of
haulage rates, which were the subject of comment by the chairman of the
Yorkshire Traffic Commissioners, Mr Joseph Farndale, in his annual report
in March, is reported in the June issue of the Bradford Chamber of trade
journal. Mr Farndale said it had been become increasingly evident that the
question of the stabilisation of rates for road haulage was one which needed to
be tackled urgently, and that, as the licencing authorities were not endowed
with statutory powers in that regard to the fixing of rates, the initiative
must lie with the operators and their associations...
Joseph’s
First Wife, Emma, died on 1 September 1936.
The Bradford Observer, 2 September 1936: MRS FARNDALE. FORMER BRADFORD
CHIEF CONSTABLE BEREAVED. Death occurred yesterday of Mrs Emma Farndale, wife
of Mr Joseph Farndale, of Oakdene, Slingsby walk, Harrogate. Mr Farndale, who
is chairman of the Yorkshire Traffic Commissioners, was chief constable of
Bradford from 1900 to 1930. Mrs Farndale was a woman of charming personality.
She was aged 73, and was the second daughter of the late Mr William Selby, of
Wakefield. She married Mr Farndale in 1883.
The Yorkshire Post and Leeds
Intelligencer, 2 September 1936: MRS J FARNDALE. The death occurred yesterday, at the age
of 73, have Mrs J Farndale, of Oak Dean, Slingsby walk, Harrogate, wife of Mr
Joseph Farndale, chairman at the Yorkshire Traffic Commissioners, and ex Chief
Constable of Bradford. Mrs Farndale was the second daughter of the late Mr
William Selby, of Wakefield. During her husband's service of 30 years as chief
constable of Bradford she made many friends, but took little part in public
life. She was married in 1883.
The Bradford Observer, 2 September 1936) : FARNDALE – On September 1st,
at Oakdene, Slingsby walk, Harrogate, Emma, dearly loved wife of Joseph
Farndale, in her 74th year. Funeral arrangements later.
The Bradford Observer, 5 September 1936
– FARNDALE
– On September 1st On September 1st at Oakdene, Slingsby walk,
Harrogate, Emma, dearly loved wife of Joseph Farndale, in her 74th year.
Funeral service at christchurch, harrogate, at 11:45 AM. Today, Saturday,
September 5th, prior to internment at stonefall cemetery.
The Bradford Observer, 7 September 1936: FUNERAL OF MRS FARNDALE. The
funeral took place at Christchurch, Harrogate, on Saturday, of Mrs Emma
farndale, who died at her home, Oakdene, Slingsby walk, Harrogate, on Tuesday
at the age of 73. Mrs Farndale was the wife of Mr Joseph Farndale, the chairman
of the Yorkshire Traffic Commissioners and former chief constable Bradford. The
Rev J F Wrangham Hardy conducted the service, which proceeded the internment at
Stonefall cemetery, Harrogate. In addition to family mourners among those
present were Mr R L Matthews, chief constable of Leeds and Mrs Matthews, Chief
Superintendent Petty, representing the chief constable of Bradford, Mr. T
Rawson, Alderman Angus Roads, chairman of the Bradford watch committee, Detective
Chief Inspector Eastern, representing detective Superintendent Price, Chief
Inspector Hardy and Inspector Robinson, all of the Bradford police.
The Leeds Mercury, 23 September 1936. Carrying of Corpses – haulier
on grim part of his business. Corpses were among the goods carried
by a haulier who made an application to the Yorkshire Traffic Licensing
Authority (Mr Joseph Farndale), sitting at 44 The Headrow, Leeds yesterday for
renewal of his existing licence. He said he carried on a rather specialised
haulage business. When Mr Farndale asked him for distances he said he had been
asked to fetch something from Preston. Mr Farndale: “Was that a Corpse?” –
“Yes”. Mr Farndale: “You don’t require authority to carry a corpse Corpses
are not goods”. The applicant: “They have asked us to be ready to carry
them.” The existing licence was renewed.
1937
The Leeds Mercury, 18 February 1937: NORTH CAVE HAULIER’S ADMISSION.
LORRY WITHOUT LICENCE. Mr. J Farndale the licencing authority for Yorkshire
under the Road and Rail Traffic Act, at York, today, refused a licence
to Sydney Gledhill trading as the Boothferry Haulage Company ...
The Leeds Mercury, 10 July 1937: FISH AND CHIPS FOR BUS
PASSENGERS. DIFFICULTIES OF RUNNING SMALL SERVICES. Amusement was caused during
the sitting of the Yorkshire traffic commissioners at Scarborough today when the
proprietor of a small bus service said it was difficult for his driver to
attend closely to his fares as he had, on occasion, to get fish and chips for
his passengers. Thomas Colin Glover, of Amotherby, Milton, applied for a
modification of his stage carriage licence between Pickering and Great Barugh
to allow fare stages on route for the benefit of farmers on market days. Mr
Glover admitted that owing to a mistake he had charged 4d for a sixpenny fare
stage on one occasion. The passengers slipped in unnoticed by the driver, and
should never have been picked up. He had been told that he must not travel on
that particular bus in future. It is much harder, he added, for these small
proprietors to run services officially as efficiently as the big companies.
Though you may hardly believe it, my driver may have fish and chips to get for
his passengers, with the result that he does not collect his tickets until the
last minute.” (laughter). The chairman, Mr. J Farndale: “He should see to
his bus tickets, not a fish and chips.” …
Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 28 October
1937: Mr Joseph
Farndale, the Licencing Authority for Yorkshire Traffic Area, sat at
York yesterday and heard applications for variation of licences. His
questioning of an applicant is recorded in the newspaper.
1938
Joseph
Farndale married his second wife, Margaret Emmott in December 1937, and it
became public knowledge in January 1938.
The Dundee Courier, 1 January 1938: Traffic
Chief Weds at 72. Mr Joseph Farndale, 72 year old chairman of Yorkshire Traffic
Commissioners and formerly Chief Constable of Bradford, yesterday married Miss
Margaret Emmott, Sowerby Bridge, who practices as a chiropodist in Leeds. The
ceremony took place in Leeds, unknown to the staff at the Traffic
Commissioners’ office there. Mr Farndale’s home is at Harrogate. After the
wedding Mr and Ms Farndale left for London. Mr Farndale was awarded the King’s
Police Medal in 1914 and has been President of the Chief Constable’s
Association.
Joseph Farndale married Maggie Emmott, registered
Leeds North in the fourth quarter of 1937. (GRO Vol 9b page 824).
The Leeds Mercury, 1
January 1938: MR JOSEPH FARNDALE. QUIET WEDDING IN LEEDS. Mr Joseph
Farndale, chairman of the Yorkshire traffic commissioners, and a former chief
constable Bradford, was quietly married to a Leeds chiropodist, Miss Margaret
Emmett yesterday. None but a few close friends and relatives at the bride
and bridegroom knew of the ceremony, and no hint of the wedding had become
known to wider circles. Mr Farndale is 72, and his bride an attractive woman,
described by a friend yesterday as “on the right side of 40.” She is well
known as a chiropodist, practising in Cavendish Chambers. Neither the staff
of the Traffic Commissioners office nor the employees of Miss Emmett knew
anything of the wedding until it was over, and Mr and Mrs Farndale had left for
london. Miss Emmert said she would be away for a few days. Mr Farndale is well
known in many parts of the country. A native of Wakefield, he served with the
Halifax police force before becoming chief constable of Margate. Later he
became chief constable of York and then a Bradford. He was awarded the Kings
Police Medal in 1914, and in 1924 was made a Companion of the British Empire.
He is a past president of the Chief Constables Association. He became chairman
of the Yorkshire traffic commissioners after his retirement from the Bradford
force. Had the wedding being generally known there would have been a large
gathering of friends at from Brunswick Methodist Church, where the ceremony was
performed by the Reverend W E Sangster.
The Western Morning
News, 1 January 1938: MARRIED AT 72. FORMER CHIEF CONSTABLE WEDS
CHIROPODIST. Mr Joseph Farndale 72 years old chairman of the Yorkshire traffic
commissioners and formerly chief constable Bradford, yesterday married miss
Margaret Emmett of Sowerby Bridge, who practises as the chiropodist in Leeds.
The ceremony took place at Leeds, unknown to the staff at the traffic
commissioners office there. Mr Farndale's home is at Harrogate. After the
wedding Mr and Mrs Farndale left for London. Mr Farndale was chief constable of
Margate and of York before becoming chief constable Bradford in 1900. He was
awarded the King's Police Medal in 1914, and has been president of the chief
constable's association.
The Northern Whig, 1
January 1938: TRAFFIC CHIEF MARRIES AT 72. Mr Joseph Farndale, 72
year old chairman of the Yorkshire traffic commissioners, and formerly chief
constable Bradford, yesterday married miss Margaret Emmett of sarabi bridge who
practises as a chiropodist in Leeds...
The Leeds Mercury, 1
January 1938: MARRIAGES. FARNDALE-EMMOTT. December 31, 1937, at
Brunswick Wesleyan Church, Leeds, Joseph Farndale CBE, of Harrogate, to
Margaret, second daughter of Mr. Smith Emmett, of Sowerby Bridge.
The Huddersfield and
Holmfirth Examiner, 1 January 1938: YORKSHIRE TRAFFIC CHIEF WEDS AT
SEVENTY TWO. Ceremony unknown to his staff. Mr Joseph Farndale, 72 year old
chairman of the Yorkshire traffic commissioners, and formerly chief constable
Bradford, today married miss Margaret Emmett, of Sowerby Bridge, who practises
as a chiropodist in Leeds ..
Maggie Emmott was born in Sowerby in 1893. So she
was 44 in 1937. She died in 1965 and is buried at St Peter’s Church, Sowerby.
Not
long afterwards, Joseph Farndale announced that he was retiring as Chairman of
the Traffic Commissioners.
The Halifax Evening Courier, 5 November 1938: RETIRING. Mr Joseph Farndale, chairman
of the Yorkshire Traffic Commissioners since the establishment of the
Commission in 1930, has intimated that at the end of this year he
proposes to retire from the post. Mr Farndale began his career as a
policeman in Halifax borough police force. He subsequently became chief
constable of Margate, then at York, and finally of Bradford in 1900. He retired
in 1930 to accept the chairmanship of the Traffic Commission. Towards the end
of the year he married the daughter of Mr. Smith Emmitt, off Sowerby Bridge.
The Yorkshire Evening
Post 07 November 1938: MR JOSEPH FARNDALE TO RETIRE. TRAFFIC
COMMISSION CHAIRMAN. ONE OF THE FIRST APPOINTED UNDER 1930 ACT. The Secretary
to the Ministry of Transport announces that Mr Joseph Farndale who has been
chairman at the Traffic Commissioners for Yorkshire traffic area since January
1 1931 and was appointed and was one of the original chairman appointed under
the Road Traffic Act 1930, will vacate that office on December 31. Mr
Farndale who is a native of Wakefield was born in 1864, and before taking over
his present position was chief of Bradford police from 1900. He joined Halifax
police force at the age of 19, and passed through every grade of the service.
He was chief constable of Margate and then chief constable of York, before
going to Bradford. Mr Farndale pioneered the police box system making a
suggestion to the government for their establishment some years before they
were generally adopted. His appointment in 1931 as Chairman of the Traffic
Commissioners, a salaried post, caused some controversy. Protests were made at
meetings of the Bradford Trades Council, and questions were asked in the House
of Commons. Mr Herbert Morrison, at that time Minister of Transport, said Mr
Farndale would draw a pension as a retired police officer in the region of £800
a year. When he retired to take over the appointment, 300 officers and men
paraded in Belle Vue barracks, Bradford, and presentations were made to him. Mr
Farndale has been president of the chief constable's association, and was
awarded the King's Police Medal in 1914. In 1924 he was given the CBE. His
marriage at the end of last year to Miss Margaret Emmett, second daughter of
Miss Smith Emmett, of Sowerby Bridge, caused a surprise. The ceremony which was
kept a closely guarded secret, took place at Brunswick Methodist Church, Leeds.
The bride, a chiropodist, practised in the Head Row. Mr Farndale’s first wife
died in September 1936.
The Leeds Mercury, 8
November 1938: MR J FARNDALE TO RETIRE. TRAFFIC COURT CHAIRMAN. The
secretary to the Ministry of Transport announces that Mr Joseph Farndale who
has been chairman of the Traffic Commissioners for the Yorkshire traffic area
since January 1931 and was one of the original chairman appointed under the
Road Traffic Act 1930, will vacate that office on December 31....
The Yorkshire Post
and Leeds Intelligencer, 8 November 1938: MR J FARNDALE TO RETIRE.
CHAIRMAN OF TRAFFIC COMMISSIONERS. The Secretary to the Ministry of Transport
announces that Mr Joseph Farndale who has been chairman of the traffic
commissioners for the Yorkshire traffic area since January 1 1931, and is one
of the original chairman appointed under the Road Traffic Act 1930, will vacate
that office on December 31...
His last public activity as a Traffic Commisioner
was to open the new Barnsley Bus Station. :
Mr. J Farndale, CBE, chairman of the Yorkshire traffic
commissioners, cutting the tape at the opening of the new Barnsley omnibus
station on Wednesday. The South Yorkshire
Times and Mexborough & Swinton Times, 23 December 1938: BARNSLEY’S
SPLENDID NEW BUS STATION. TRACTION ENTERPRISE PRAISED. LEAD FOR REST OF COUNTY.
TRAFFIC COMMISSIONERS’ TRIBUTE.
1939
However, Joseph Farndale didn’t relax and
continued to be inviolved in traffic regulation, and the ‘Safety First’
campaigns.
The Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 1
February 1939: BRADFORD SAFETY FUIRST COUNCIL. “We talk about the danger
of being at war, but we're at war in a way one considers in a way when one
considers the fatalities that take place annually on the roads”, said Mr Ben
Wade who was re-elected chairman of the Bradford Safety First council at
the annual meeting in the town hall yesterday... the following officers were
elected... Mr Joseph Farndale, vice chairman...
Joseph Farndale was soon chairing an Inquiry. The Huddersfield
Daily Examiner, 14 June 1939: PETROL SUPPLIES. BIG JUMP IN DEMAND
BEFORE BUDGET DAY. A big jump in demand for petrol in March was attributed to
budget prospects when Messrs Isherwood and Co of Manchester made a successful
application for authority to add a fourth tank wagon to their fleet at the
Road and Rail Traffic Act inquiry held by Mr Joseph Farndale in Manchester
yesterday. Evidence was given that since May 1, 219 tonnes of business had
been given to other hauliers because the firms fleet could not cope with the
demand. This was not economical and was inconvenient to the customers owing to
the delays. After inspecting returns of the carryings, Mr Farndale granted a
licence for the extra vehicle.
His idea of reintroducing very low speed limits
had probably passed their day.
The Bradford Observer, 5 October 1939:
10 MPH SPEED LIMIT. SUGGESTION AT BRADFORD SAFETY FIRST COUNCIL. At a
meeting of the Bradford Safety First council yesterday, Mr Joseph
Farndale, former chairman of the Yorkshire traffic commissioners, suggested
that a 10 miles an hour limit should be introduced in congested areas. He
said that during the blackout it was clear a pedestrian could see a motor car
but it was doubtful whether a motorist could see a pedestrian. Mr Farndale said
that he could not see how a motorist could possibly make out pedestrians who
were wearing dark clothing when crossing a highway and he advised pedestrians
to take greater care. “I think there should be a 10 mile an hour speed limit
for motorists in congested areas.”
The Leeds Mercury,
26 October 1939: ONE IN TEN A WARDEN. Mr G Fea, Divisional Air
Raid Warden in Bradford, who had given an address on the activities of wardens
in the city, said in reply to questions by Mr Farndale, that one in 10 of
the 400 full time wardens in Bradford was a woman. While there was no rule
relating to age, particular attention had been paid to the suitability of women
wardens. In his address, Mr Fae said there had always been the best relations
between the wardens and the permanent staff at Bradford. “We were able to laugh
at the happenings in Leeds” said Mr Fae. He criticised “the idea of drawing a
straight line between air raid wardens and special constables duties.”...
However Joseph’s views of the role of women
remained very much ‘of their time’. The Yorkshire Post and Leeds
Intelligencer, 26 October 1939: ‘SLIPS OF GIRLS’ AS WARDENS.
‘WOULD NOT BE MUCH USE IN AN AIR RAID’. “Slips of girls of 20 wearing air
raid wardens helmets” were referred to by Mr Joseph Farndale, former
chairman of Yorkshire traffic commissioners and former chief constable at
Bradford, at a meeting of the Bradford safety first council yesterday. Mr
Farndale said he had seen such girls in some other cities, and he did not
think they would be much use during an air raid. Women wardens should be
women of mature age who would not take fright. Alderman Henry
Hudson, a former Lord Mayor of Bradford, asked who was in a position to
judge whether a girl 20 would have less nerve during an air raid than a
woman of woman of 60.
The Leeds Mercury
27 October 1939: ‘SLIPS OF GIRLS’ AS WARDENS. An ex service reader writes strongly
opposing the opinion expressed by Mr Joseph Farndale, the former chief
constable at Bradford, that “slips of girls wearing wardens helmets” would not
be of much use in air raids. He says: Mr Farndale should have seen the service
girl motor drivers in France gave in 1914 to 1918. One organisation carried
the relatives of badly wounded men from the ports to hospitals and thence to
rest billets. This work called for the highest courage and resource.
Much of it was night driving, and this had to be done without lights, over war
worn roads with war worn vehicles, difficult to start and very liable to stop.
They went all over northern France and had to deal with constant error rates,
pacifying their passengers, people whose grief made them particularly difficult
to handle. When in “rest” the girls lived in service conditions....
The Leeds Mercury
28 October 1939: THOSE ‘SLIPS OF GIRLS’. Criticism by Mr Joseph
Farndale, former chairman of the Yorkshire traffic commissioners and a former
chief constable of Bradford, of “slips of girls” wearing air raid wardens
helmets were soon answered in Leeds by some of the “slips of girls”
themselves. One reply was: “Some girls can be very cool and calm. On the
other hand elder women might be nervous and jumpy.” Another 20 year old
asked: “Are old women going to take less fright than young ones?” While not
wishing to enter into the argument upon the respective merits as air raid
wardens of older women and slips of girls, we feel it is unfair to suggest
if such a suggestion was intended, that young girls should not be allowed to
take up these responsible posts. Has Mr Farndale forgotten the skill and
courage, often under fire, of the WAACs, the ambulance drivers and the nurses
in the last World War? Does he consider the girls of today differ greatly from
their mothers and that in the hour of need they would not show the same
courage and skill? Young girls who have volunteered to play their part in
our civil defence plan are receiving the same training as men. One male warden
in Leeds described them as keen and capable. When our young men are ready
already being called upon to serve their country's cause in the field of
battle, the girls they leave behind are also eager to shoulder their burden. And
here's the best of luck to them!
1940
The Yorkshire
Evening Post, 8 May 1940: £1,000 A YEAR PENSION. WHEN CHIEF
CONSTABLE OF BRADCFORD RETIRES. When the chief constable of Bradford, Mr Thomas
Rawson, retires, the City Council yesterday approved the grant to him of a
special pension of £1,000 per annum for two years after which the position will
be reviewed, the city will have two former chief constables on their pension
role. In 1930 Mr Joseph Farndale, Mr Rawson's predecessor, retired and
since january 1931 has been receiving a pension of £833 6s 8d, a year, 2/3 of
his salary of £1,250. He was chief constable for 30 years and in the police
service for 47 years. Mr Rawson have had 30 years police service in Carlisle,
Macclesfield, Hareford, Swansea and Bradford, but only a little over nine years
has been spent in Bradford. Since he came to Bradford, however, he has
reorganised and been chief officer of the fire brigade, a duty which did not
devolve upon Mr Farndale. As chief officer Mr Rawson received a non pensionable
allowance of £105 per annum...
The Yorkshire Post
and Leeds Intelligencer, 25 June 1940: DELAY AFTER DIALING ‘0’
Doctor B Wade expressed the opinion that all road users were taking more care.
He suggested that, in view of the many cars parked in commercial street and
other principal streets in Leeds, it would be very difficult to avoid
confusion during an air raid. He complained of delay amounting to five or
ten minutes in obtaining a reply after dialling ‘0’ on the telephone, and made
the suggestion that the city police telephone number which is now five figures,
might be simplified for emergency purposes.... Mr J Farndale suggested
the substitution for emergency purposes of another single figure than 0 which
he understood was used for a number of calls....
The Bradford
Observer, 1 August 1940: Mr Joseph Farndale, former chairman of
the Yorkshire Traffic Commissioners Former chairman of the Yorkshire traffic
commissioners also said he does not think fines did much good to the faulty
motorist. “the simple thing to do is to take the motorist off the road,
suspend his licence,” Mr Farndale added.
The Bradford
Observer, 1 August 1940: MOTORISTS RECORDS. Mr Stuart Hurst, of
the Leeds Safety First council, is rightly proud of the fact that as a motorist
he is driven for over 30 years without accidental fine. When he mentioned this
at the Bradford Safety First council meeting yesterday it was found that two of
the members had a similar experience. One was Mr Joseph Frndale, who had been
chief constable of Bradford and chairman of the Yorkshire traffic Commission
commissioners, and the other was Mr HD Shore, who in 36 years of driving has been
fined only once, he had to pay 5s for a technical offence, in 1910, of leaving
the Brooklyn's track without a car horn.
1941
The Bradford
Observer, 8 March 1941: MILITARY ASKED TO HELP IN YORKSHIRE ROAD
SAFETY. The West Riding Federation of Safety First Councils, which changed
its name yesterday to the West Riding Federation of Accident Prevention
Councils, is to request the GOC Northern Command to appoint a military
transport officer as a member of the Federation .. Mr Joseph Farndale pointed out that it had
been admitted in Parliament that there were 300 accidents a day to military
vehicles which was an enormous number. He thought that to some extent there
were rivers of military vehicles who were under the erroneous impression
that they had the right of road over any other vehicle and that they could
disregard signals and do as they please...
The Yorkshire Post
and Leeds Intelligencer, 15 April 1941: MR JOHN LAW. Mr. John
Law, a former mayor of Halifax and Yorkshire traffic commissioner has died at
his home in Halifax aged 76... He was elected mayor in 1928, and was a
Yorkshire traffic commissioner with Mr. J farndale...
1942
The Bradford
Observer, 30 January 1942: INCREASE OF 10 IN BRADFORD ROAD
FATALITIES. Doctor Ben Wade chairman of the Bradford Council of the Royal
Society for the Prevention of Accidents, disclosing Bradford Rd accident
figures for 1941 at the meeting of the town hall yesterday, pointed out that
although the number of fatalities was 10 more than in 1940, the figures for
other accidents showed a decreased dot in the election of officers,... Mr
Joseph Farndale...
Joseph Farndale did not like the idea of changing
the rule of the road to drive on the right in the UK. The Bradford Observer, 25 September 1942: ‘KEEP
TO THE RIGHT’ SUGGESTION FOR TRAFFIC. The suggestion that traffic should revert
to the continental and American system of travelling on the right was put
forward by Dr Ben wade, chairman, at the meeting yesterday of the Bradford
Council of these Royal Society of the Prevention of Accidents … Mr Joseph
Farndale said he could not see there would be any advantage from the point of
view of preventing accidents by changing a rule of the road which was already
so well established...
1945
Joseph Farndale advocated eliminating the use of
amber in traffic lights.
The Bradford Observer, 6 November 1945: THE AMBER LIGHT. The deputy chief constable, Mr B Hudson,
presented a return showing that so far this year there had been 914 road
accidents as compared with 976 for the whole of 1944. There were 11 fewer fatal
accidents, 39 against fifty. Mr. J Farndale come out former chief constable
Bradford, said he advocated elimination of the amber light at robot
crossings years ago, because many motorists proceeded on it, but the ministry
ruled it out...
1947
The Bradford
Observer, 15 January 1947: BRADFORD ACCIDENT. COUNCIL IS TOLD
‘WOMEN ARE THE TROUBLE’. I get very little trouble from schoolchildren. The
people I get trouble from our women. This was the answer given by Bradfords
Accident Prevention Council yesterday by Captain C W Codrington, assistant
divisional area organiser for the Royal Society for the Prevention of
Accidents, after Mr Joseph Farndale, presiding, had commented on children's
road behaviour... Mr Farndale said he had spent many hours at street crossings
in Leeds, and schoolchildren seemed to cross anywhere but at an authorised
crossing. He had seen parents with children doing this, and thought that if
parents crossed with their children at the proper places the children
themselves would be more inclined to follow the safety first teaching in
schools...
1948
In 1948, there was an article summarising the
history of the Bradford Police, inclouding during Joseph Farndale’s time. The Bradford
Observer, 5 January 1948:
BRADFORD’S POLICE FORCE IS 100 THIS MONTH.
This month sees the 100th birthday at the city of
Bradford police force, which was formed on 1 January in 1848.
The police took over from the watchmen, several
of whom enrolled as constables. The original force comprised a chief constable,
1 Superintendent, 6 sergeants, 2 detective officers, and 58 constables, and it
was divided into two distinct sections, the day police in the night police.
The borough police station was situated in Swaine
Street, and at first only that part of the borough under the jurisdiction of
the Watching and Lighting Commissioners was “watched”” by the police. Later,
when street lighting was extended into Manningham, Great Horton, and Bowling,
additional constables were engaged, although the residents objected on the
grounds of unnecessary expense.
Top hatted.
The original “bobbies” who received 17s a week,
wore blue frock coats and top hats, while beards and “mutton chop” whiskers
with the order of the day. Instead of a whistle, the men used a rattle, similar
to those now favoured by football supporters, which they carried in their
tailcoats.
During its lifetime, the forces contained in its
ranks a number of officers who achieved prominence in police circles, while
some of the older citizens will doubtless recall “characters” who were
respected and sometimes feared by the residents of particular localities. In
all there have been eight chief constables, including Mr Joseph Farndale CBE
who held the post for more than 30 years. The present chief, Mr H S Price
OBE, rose to the position after joining the forces a constable.
Pioneers.
The Bradford force has a proud record of pioneer
work, notably in the detection of crime by scientific means. It was the
first force in the country to secure a conviction solely by means of
fingerprint evidence. This was in 1905, when a man whose fingerprints were
found on a tumbler was sent to prison for breaking into a club and stealing
property.
In photography too, the Bradford police
have always been at the forefront. In 1938 an innovation was created by filming
the activities of men engaged in street battling in the heart of the city.
Incidentally when the film was subsequently exhibited at the trial, the men completely
abandoned their defensive attitude as they proudly and excitedly identified
themselves on the screen!
The local force can also claim to have led the
way in utilising photomicrography, that is the photographing of objects as
small as 125th thousandth of an inch, and colour photography has been
incorporated into the process.new line radio work.
The force was a pioneer in the use of radio in
police work, and in 1932, chief constables from different parts of the
country attended the demonstration held in the city. Nowadays, motor cars
equipped with two ray two way radio apparatus patrolled the city by day and by
night. Manned by uniformed constable and a detective officer, they can be at
the scene of any occurrence within a few minutes.
The two offices transmit their reports verbally
to headquarters, where shorthand typists type them out, and all the men have to
do is to sign them at the completion of their tour of duty. Over 40 girls are
now employed at the police headquarters on clerical and telephone duties. When
it was proposed to appoint a “secretary” to the force in 1848 the chief
constable said it was not necessary, since he and the Superintendent could cope
with all the clerical work!
Those now responsible for the force realised that
maximum efficiency can only be obtained by ensuring the contentment and
well-being of the personnel, and much attention is paid to the welfare of men
who perform arduous duties in very trying climatic conditions. In addition,
many social functions are held within the force, and at meetings of various
discussion groups a frank interchange of views is encouraged.
Sporting record.
These features go a long way toward keeping the
men in good heart, and it is not surprising that last year H M Inspector of
Constabulary, after paying tribute to the high standard of efficiency, said
that he was assured that a measure of it is due to the fact was due to the fact
that Bradford had a happy force.
Bradford policemen have a fine record in the
world of sport. In particular they have excelled in running, and what greater
deterrent could there be to those contemplating crime? The collection of
handsome trophies in the chief constable office testifies to the athletic
prowess of a police force whose relay team has several times defeated that of a
force five times as big, the metropolitan police.
War work.
The police choir, too, has captured many prizes,
while the military band, composed largely of ex army musicians, has a big
reputation. The annual concerts and sports meeting organised by the police
Athletic Club are firmly established institutions in the life of the city.
Naturally the police had a gruelling time
during the war years, but they received invaluable help from a willing
body of auxiliaries. As in previous wars, many policemen joined the
armed forces, where most of them intake attained officer rank and several
were decorated. As recruiting was entirely suspended throughout the late war,
this now ranks is a major task.
The city forces certainly had its full share of
spectacular triumphs, but it rank as its greatest achievement to the fact that,
despite current difficulties, including the enforcement of the many
restrictions incidental to present day life, the force continues to retain the
goodwill and confidence of the citizens whom it is proud to serve, help and
protect.
1949
The Bradford
Observer, 9 February 1949: REASONS FOR THE CLAUSE. Alderman D
Black, chairman of the Bradford Watch Committee, said: “I know it is unusual
for a chairman of the committee to speak immediately after a white paper
resolution, but I do so for a certain reason. And that is because the mover of
the resolution is confused and he does not know why clause 94 is being brought
before the public. There is a purpose and a reason. Had we known, or we been
absolutely certain, that all we had to say and all we wanted to say would have
been published in the press, word for word, without any omission, we might have
made a statement.” There were safeguards which would not be abused. As far
back as 1929, recalled Alderman Black, the then town clerk of Bradford had been
asked by the Chief Constable, Mr Farndale, for the same powers as were
in clause 94 today. Mr Farndale at that time had felt that police powers
were insufficient to deal with the existing crime of the day, but no bill was
forthcoming.
1951
By 1951, Joseph Farndale was a prouid old Chief
Constable, enjoying watching the police on parade. The Yorkshire
Observer, 12 July 1951. With all the precision of Guardsmen, and
with their band playing British Grenadiers, Bradford city police yesterday
marched past Lieutenant Colonel Sir Frank Brook, H M Inspector of Constabulary,
at their annual inspection in Peel Park. There are plenty of ex
Guardsman in the police, and RSM Briten, had he been present, would have been
proud of the way the Brigade's traditions were carried on. Mr Joseph
Farndale, chief constable of Bradford until 1930, was there bearing his 80
years likely. Asked what he thought of the parade, he said: “It
maintains the standard I set a long time ago.”
Honours
Joseph was awarded the King’s Police Medal (“KPM”)
in 1914 when he was Chief Constable of Bradford City Police Force, and
appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (“OBE”) in the 1920
civilian war honours and Commander of the Order of the British Empire (“CBE”)
in the 1924 Birthday honours.
His records state that he was appointed with his
OBE on the 1 January 1920 and he was invested by the Lord Lieutenant of West
Riding of Yorkshire at Leeds Town Hall on the 12th April 1921. He was promoted
from an Officer of the Order and was appointed a CBE on the 3 June 1924. He
attended an Investiture at Buckingham Palace on the 9 July 1924.
The London Gazette states that all of Joseph
Farndale’s awards are connected to his work with the Bradford Police
department.
(Central Chancery
of the Orders of Knighthood, St James’s Palace
London SW1A 1BH).
1954
Joseph Farndale,
died age 89, on 22 February 1954 at his home in Harrogate. (DR)
His death was recorded in the sub-district of
Harrogate on 22 February 1954, at the age of 89. He was a retired police
constable, Bradford, CBE.
Joseph Farndale died in February 1954 and there
was an obituary placed in the Yorkshire Post. It states: The death has
occurred at his home, The Flat, Ripon Road, Harrogate, of Mr Joseph Farndale,
who was, for 30 years from 1900, Chief Constable of Bradford. He was 89. Mr
Farndale was appointed first chairman of the Traffic Commissioners for
Yorkshire under the Road Act and resigned his Bradford post. He was former
Chief Constable of Margate and of York, after serving in every grande of the
police force at Halifax. A Wakefield man, he joined the Halifax Borough Police
Force at the age of 19. He was awarded the Police Medal in 1914 and the CBE in
1924.
The Yorkshire Post
and Leeds Intelligencer, 24 February 1954: MR JOSEPH FARNDALE.
The death has occurred at his home, the flat, Ripon Road, Harrogate, of Mr
Joseph Farndale, who was, for 30 years from 1900, Chief Constable Bradford. He
was 89. Mr Farndale was appointed first Chairman of the Traffic Commissioners
for Yorkshire under the Road Act, and resigned his Bradford post. He was former
Chief Constable of Margate and of York, after serving in every grade of the
police force at Halifax. A Wakefield man, he joined the Halifax borough police
force at the age of 19. He was awarded the Police Medal in 1914 and the CBE in
1924. Mr Farndale’s first wife died in 1936, and two years later he married at
Brunswick Methodist Church, Leeds, Miss Margaret Emmett, of Sowserby Bridge.
His bride was a chiropodist and practised in Cavendish Chambers, the Head Row,
Leeds.
The Yorkshire Post
and Leeds Intelligencer, 26 February 1954: MR JOSEPH FARNDALE.
FROM OUR HARROGATE STAFF. Six police officers from Bradford acted as bearers
at the funeral at Harrogate, yesterday, of Mr Joseph Farndale, Ripon Road,
Harrogate, a former chief constable of York and Bradford who became first
chairman of the Yorkshire Traffic Commissioners. The service at Christchurch
was conducted by the Reverend C H Pickthorn, and a contingent of 30 police
officers from Bradford were headed by the chief constable, Mr H S Price, who
also represented the Lord Mayor, Councillor Angus Crowther, the Association of
Chief Officers of Police and Mr. T Rawson, former chief constable Bradford. The
family mourners were: Mrs M farndale, widow; Miss E farndale, daughter, Mr and
Mrs P Norwood, Mrs N Hey, Mr A Emmott, Mr and Mrs H webster, Mrs Hugh
Robertson, Mrs Z Jennings, Miss Owram, and Mr H A Stanger. Superintendent E
Stubbs, Harrogate, representing the chief constable of the West Riding, Sir
Henry Studdy, and was accompanied by Chief Inspector T Todd and Inspector A
Mothersdale, both of Harrogate. Others present other others present included
Major F S Eastward, chairman of the licencing authority and regional transport
commissioner, also representing headquarters, ministry of transport and Civil
Aviation and Mr E Russell Gurney, deputy licencing authority, Mr HH Herman,
chief constable of York, Mr Harry Ambler, assistant chief constable of
Bradford, who also who also represented Councillor H Rhodes, Alderman John Shee,
chairman the Bradford watch committee, and Alderman F Duce, deputy chairman, Mr
H Scott, chairman, and Mr A E Clements, secretary, Bradford branch, National
Association of retired police officers, and Mr. J W Lawrence, West Yorkshire
Road Car Company.
The Yorkshire Post
and Leeds Intelligencer, 25 February 1954: FARNDALE. – February
22, 1954 In his 90th year, Joseph's CBE, of the flat, 5 Ripon road, Harrogate,
late chief constable Bradford, dearly loved husband of Margaret Farndale.
Funeral service at Christchurch, Harrogate, today, thursday, at 11:00 AM,
internment at stonefall at 11:30 AM. Will friends please meet at the church. No
mourning and no flowers please.
The Yorkshire
Observer, 26 February 1954: LAST TRIBUTES TO MR J FARNDALE. Present
and past members of the Bradford police city police and West Riding
Constabulary were among those who attended the funeral service at Christchurch,
Harrogate yesterday of Mr Joseph Farndale, a former chief constable of Bradford
and York, and a former chairman of the Yorkshire Traffic Commissioners, who died
at his home in Ripon Road, Harrogate, aged 89. The service was conducted by the
Reverend C H Pickthorn, curate in charge, prior to Interment at Stonefall
cemetery. A contingent of 30 police officers from Bradford was headed by...
The Halifax Daily
Courier & Guardian, 24 February 1954: CONSTABLE WHO BECAME A
POLICE CHIEF. DEATH OF MR JOSEPH FARNDALE. Mr Joseph Farmdale, Halifax
constable who became chief constable of Bradford 16 years after entering the
police service, and who later, became chairman of the Yorkshire traffic
commissioners, has died at his home, at Ripon Road, Harrogate. He was 89. Born
in Wakefield and educated at Fieldhouse Academy, Aberford, Mr Farndale became
an apprentice chemist, but on reaching the age of 21, decided to enter the
police force, joining in Halifax as a constable. His police career was
brilliant. He had rapid promotion to the Halifax in the Halifax
force and took a post as chief constable of Margate in 1893. During his time in
Halifax, he was secretary of the Halifax Police Athletic Club. Mr Farndale
became chief constable of York in 1897, and three years later, chief constable
Bradford. In 1914 he received the King's Police Medal and, in a 1924, the CBE. Police
box pioneer. The police box system was pioneered by Mr farndale. Retiring
from police service in and in 1930, at the age of 66, Mr Farndale was appointed
chairman at the Yorkshire traffic commissioners. He retired from this position
in 1938. Mr Farndale’s first wife died in 1936, and the following year he
married miss Margaret Emmett, second daughter of Mr. Smith Emmett of Beechwood,
Sowerby Bridge, a former Co president of the Calder Valley Poet Society.
Research Notes:
National Archives