Battens, a Shotgun and Bare Fists Usefl in Murchison Rumpus

Wanganui Chronicle, 24 July 1947, Page 5

Battens, a Shotgun and Bare Fists Usefl in Murchison Rumpus

(P.A.) Nelson. July 23 No fewer than twenty charges arising out of one set of circumstances, a fracas between neighbouring farmers in Maruia Valley, near Murchison, occupied the attention of Mr. I. L. Mansell, S.M., at the Murchison sitting of the court. Alma Qlga Terrill, aged 65, was sentenced to fourteen days’ imprisonment on a charge of presenting a firearm with intent to do bodily harm. Edward Christian Morbeck, aged 65, was fined £lO with costs £5 5s for assault, defendant being granted leave to appeal. Other charges of assault, brought by participants in the light, against each other, also claims lor damages, were adjourned. Evidence showed that Rolle J. Terrill, accomoanied by Douglas G. Norriss and Arthur R. Nomss, went to the farm of Mrs. Alma O. Terrill for a bull. A dispute arose between Edward Christian Morbeck, an employee on Mrs. Terrill’s farm, and Rolfe Terrill, part-owner of the bull. A fight ensued in which Terrill suffered a cut head when he was hit with a batten. In response to Morbeck’s call, Terrill brought a shotgun from i..e house. James Russell, who was staying on the farm, also joined the rumpus, in which all six present were embroiled. Boards, battens, a shotgun, stones and bare fists were useci by participants and the trouble was stopped on the arrival of the Murchison policeman.