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If whilst travelling around Dorset you have to cross the River Stour, the main river that runs through the county, or one of its smaller tributaries, you may be making use of one of Dorset's older river bridges.


A lot of these older bridges still bear the plaque shown above, normally situated in the middle of the span, so it is visible from the road.
It seems a bit of an extreme punishment for just damaging a bridge, although its purpose may have been as a deterrent rather than an actual punishment.

The Plaque Reads:-

DORSET
ANY PERSON WILFULLY INJURING
ANY PART OF THIS COUNTY BRIDGE
WILL BE GUILTY OF FELONY AND
UPON CONVICTION LIABLE TO BE
TRANSPORTED FOR LIFE
                          BY THE COURT
                        T FOOKS


No Entry
I am not sure of the plaques present legal status, but even if it were enforceable, it is extremely unlikely the Australians would let you in anyway.

For a related link on this site, see my page on the Red Post   .
This played an unusual role in the transportation of prisoners.







The peaceful River Stour at Sturminister Marshall where the above plaque is situated.

Co-Ords:
395777 100551 / ST 957005  (Above)
386359 108627 / ST 863086  (Durweston nr Blandford)
399091 106175 / ST 990061  (Witchampton)

  

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