Non-fatal Accident

Henry Ruecroft

Durham Miners' Association
Compensation Department

Leasingthorne. Henry Rowcroft, 50, stoneman (piece).

Sprained himself whilst lifting a large stone on 17th October, 1922. Compensation was paid at the full rate until 25th December, 1922, when it was stopped on a report by Dr. Leigh de Legh. The case was referred to the Official Medical Referee (Dr. McCullagh) who reported on 23rd March, 1923 :—

1. "Henry Rowcroft is suffering from an inguinal hernia caused by lifting a stone, and his condition is such that he is at present totally incapacitated for work as a stoneman, but is fit for work of a light nature.

2. The incapacity is entirely due to the above-mentioned injuries by the accident."

The Owners paid Rowcroft 20/- without War addition, and at the Committee on 18th April, 1923, we asked for it to be paid, but the Owners refused.

We decided to take the case to Court, and it was heard before Judge McCarthy at Middlesbro’ on 9th July, 1923.

Dr. Anderson, on our behalf, agreed with the Owners’ doctor that with a truss Rowcroft could do practically any work, and that an operation would effect a cure.

The Judge adjourned the case and ordered Rowcroft to submit to operation as suggested, the Owners to pay full compensation with War addition from 23rd December, 1922, to 9th October, 1923, the payments then to cease, but with liberty to apply if not recovered from the effects of the operation by that date.

Rowcroft has been advised by a doctor at Newcastle Infirmary that an operation is not essential.

Claim disallowed.

Source: Documents at the Durham Miners' Association, Redhills, Durham

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