1850: Today's London Daily News raised a question with regard to the Game Act 1831 as it stood and the burden it placed on the County Rates. Major landowners bred animals for their table (or allowed natural breeding to take place). Many families, though, were perpetually short of food, especially meat. As a result, poaching in rural England was widespread. It was also a criminal offence - and getting caught usually meant prison. The bald facts presented by the Daily News ran as follows: 'We hear that no less than twenty-five men have been committed to Peterborough Gaol within 13 days for committing trespasses in pursuit of game upon lands belonging to the Marquis of Exeter (the owner of Burghley House and its expansive estates).' Prison meant the family lost its breadwinner and frequently, therefore, became a cost on the Poor Law rates. the imprisoned poacher also cost the state - and on his release would have a criminal record and therefore find it difficult to get work. It created a vicious downward spiral...but for what? The crime was for trespass with intent rather than theft. What was true here in Peterborough was true through most of the kingdom. Soon the laws would start changing - but too late for these Peterborians.

Taken from The Peterborough Book of Days by Brian Jones, The History Press, 2014.