COMMERCIAL HOTEL, METHLEY

Yesterday, at the Commercial Hotel, Methley, near Normanton, Mr. P. Maitland, coroner, held an inquest on the body of Harry Hough (16), lamp cleaner, at Briggs and Company’s pit, wbo had resided with his brother and mother at Holmfield Cottages.

Deceased had been missing since Tuesday last, when he was seen walking along the canal bank by a man named Shillitto. Fannie Hough, the mother of deceased, attributed the action of the deceased in committing suicide to harsh words used at his employment. Samuel Hough, the elder brother, also spoke of the “language” which it was stated the deceased complained about, and which he gave as a reason for not going to work.

Samual Bellwood gave evidence that he and the deceased had been on the best of terms, only a correcting word being used occasionally when the lamps were scratched. In answer to a question as to why the deceased gave notice, the witness asserted that the lad had complained to him and shed tears because his brother Sam was “always on to him,” because his wages were so small – 11s. a week.

The jury returned a verdict of committed suicide whilst of “unsound mind.”

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