4 July 1914 – Arthur Garlick

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From the Wiltshire Times on Saturday the 4th of July 1914

On Monday evening a labourer named Arthur Garlick (44) was admitted to the Malmesbury Cottage Hospital unconscious and bleeding from a wound on his head. Dr. Moore was in attendance, having seen the man lying down in the street near the Market Cross. As the injury consisted of a fracture of the base of the skull, there was no hope of recovery. Garlick remained unconscious and died at 2.30 the following morning.

The Market Cross in Malmesbury, viewed from the entrance to Bird Cage Walk. The Market Cross is a historic and prominent feature in the town, reflecting the medieval architecture that is characteristic of many such structures across the UK. The scene includes colorful buildings in the background, with a clear blue sky adding contrast to the stone structure.
The Market Cross in Malmesbury, viewed from the entrance to Bird Cage Walk. Friday the 16th of August 2024.

It was alleged that the death of Garlick was caused by another man pushing him. On Tuesday morning, William Paginton, a middle-aged man in the employ of the Malmesbury Rural District Council as a roadman, was arrested and charged with the manslaughter of Garlick.

The inquest was held at the Y.M.C.A Room on Tuesday afternoon, before Mr. A. L. Forrester, Coroner for North Wilts.

George Garlick, Silver Street, said Arthur Garlick, the deceased man, was his son, 44 years of age, and was a labourer. Witness could only say that he was at work on Monday for Mrs. Jones, King’s Arms Hotel, and arrived home about seven o’clock in the evening.

A view of Malmesbury High Street, featuring a historic row of buildings with a traditional English aesthetic. The central focus is on "The Kings Arms Hotel" and "Kings Bar," housed in an old, two-story building with a sloping, weathered roof and dormer windows. The facade is painted in light colors, with dark trim around the windows and doors, giving it a classic look. The windows are large with multiple panes, and a sign hangs above the entrance. Nearby shops, including a Clarks store, can be seen, and cars are parked along the street. Colorful bunting flags are strung across the street, adding to the festive and welcoming atmosphere. The sky is partly cloudy, with patches of blue visible, contributing to the bright and lively scene.
The Kings Arms on Malmesbury High Street, on Sunday the 11th of August 2024.

Arthur James Liddington, baker’s boy, employed by Gladwin & Son, Market Cross, stated that he saw Paginton sitting on one of the outside walls of the Market Cross, and whilst he was there Garlick went to him in a menacing attitude. Whilst Paginton was still sitting down, Garlick struck him in the face and closed with him. Paginton pushed Garlick away, and the latter gave “a sort of twist” and fell against the wall, striking his head, causing blood to flow from the wound and from his ears. He was taken to the Cottage Hospital.

Other witnesses were Ernest W. Curtis, Bruce Paginton (accused’s brother), Arthur Cooke, Mrs. Lucy Pearce, Mrs. Dorothy May Jones, and Dr. Moore.

Dr. Moore said there was a fracture running down to the base of the skull. An artery had been ruptured by the fracture and that was the cause of death, for a large clot of blood was pressing on the brain.

A view of the Market Cross in Malmesbury, seen from Oxford Street. The historic stone structure of the Market Cross stands prominently on the right, with its intricate Gothic design and tall spire visible against the overcast sky. In the background, the spire of a church rises above the surrounding buildings, adding to the town's historic charm. The street scene includes a few cars, a red one turning the corner and a blue one parked near the Market Cross. On the left, a building with green paint and string lights adds a touch of modernity to the otherwise historic setting. The scene is peaceful, capturing the blend of old and new in this quaint town.
A view of the Market Cross in Malmesbury from Oxford Street. Sunday the 25th of August 2024.

The coroner briefly summed up, and the jury found that Garlick died from a fall caused by being pushed by Paginton in self-defence. The verdict, the Coroner said, amounted to “accidental death.”

There was some applause at the announcement. Later the same day, Paginton was brought before Mr. E. L. Hinwood and the Mayor (Mr. H. Farrant) and remanded until Wednesday, July 7th. Only evidence of arrest was given by P.S. Hillier.

Bail was granted, accused in £50 and two sureties of £25 each.

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