On This Day, 4 October 1917

Birmingham Mail

Thursday 4 October 1917

BIRMINGHAM SOLDIER COMMITTED FOR TRIAL

CHARGE OF ROBBING A POST OFFICE

After a trial lasting two days, the Bangor magistrates committed Sapper H. J. Bannister, Birmingham, and Sapper Ralph Perry, Manchester, both belonging to the Royal Anglesey Engineers, for trial on a charge of having broken into Talybont Sub Post Office, near Bangor, and stolen stamps, cigarettes, etc.

Both men denied the charge. Bannister admitted he first told the police he was not in Bangor on the night of the robbery, but said he did so to shield a corporal, who reported him in camp that night.

The police called evidence to show that Bannister struck up an acquaintance with the housekeeper of the Sub-postmaster of Talybont and enquired whether anyone lived at the post office. He also asked the sub-postmaster whether he kept a dog.