David Hewitt

Before the Second World War, Castle Street, where Mary Burridge took from Woolworth’s was one of Bristol’s main shopping streets

People's History

How a media backlash led to a St Paul’s woman’s dramatic release from prison

In 1933 Mary Burridge, a poor mother of five, was sentenced to a month’s hard labour after stealing a few items of food at Easter. But after a national outcry over her treatment, a wealthy lawyer flew to Cardiff to free her from prison.

David Hewitt
David Hewitt

People's History

A young man in a Scouts hat and scarf, shown in an archive photo

The ‘Red Scout’: how a boy from Brislington became caught up in anti-communist hysteria

David Hewitt
David Hewitt

People's History

Image of former Bristol police chief John Henderson Watson surrounded by his constables

The Bristol police chief embroiled in corruption who died with a razor in his hand

David Hewitt
David Hewitt
Image of Bristol City's Ashton Gate ground during a match against Manchester United (credit: Bristol City)

People's History

The last time England’s men played football at Ashton Gate – a mere 110 years ago

In 1913, 8,000 fans came to Bedminster to watch the England men’s team play Wales, where foul weather had turned the pitch into a quagmire.

David Hewitt
David Hewitt