Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire Reporter 20 Jun 1879: William Saunders run down by bicycle

CAMBRIDGE

COUNTY COURT. — At this Court, held on Wednesday last before Mr. Beales, M.A., Judge, the only case of public interest was a running-down case, that of Saunders v. Donavon. The plaintiff is a butcher and dealer, living at Trumpington, and it appeared that he, accompanied by his son, on the 6th of November last, were on their way in a horse and cart to Sawston. When between Shelford and Sawston they were met by two bicycles ridden by two members of the University, Mr. Donavon, of Trinity College, and Mr. H.M. Foster, of Trinity. The defendant, Mr. Donavon, was in front, and it was his bicycle that came into collision with plaintiff’s cart. The horse started on and threw the plaintiff out, who was seriously injured. He was confined to his home for several weeks, and had to be attended by a surgeon. He claimed £40, which included £15 for damage done to the horse and 16s. or 17s. to the cart. — The defendant said that he was not on the same side of the road as plaintiff, and that his bicycle did not come into contact with the cart. — His Honour said the evidence was painfully conflicting. - The case was heard before a jury, who gave a verdict for plaintiff, damages £10 and costs.