On the 29th December 1888 the mutilated body of John Gill was found at the back of Mellor Street, Manningham, Bradford. He was 8 years old.

Within two hours of the discovery of the body Bradford Police had arrested William Barrett, a local milk roundsman, and charged him with the murder.

Within two weeks, despite both the Police being certain of his guilt and the Bradford Coroner subsequently naming him as responsible for the killing, Bradford Magistrates set him free.

A case was subsequently prepared for a trial at Leeds Assize but withdrawn by the Prosecution on the first day. No Jury was ever given the opportunity to hear all of the evidence.

Now the Bradford Police Museum gives you the opportunity to hear all the evidence and immerse yourself in this truly macabre, real-life murder trial from Bradford’s hidden history. You can now be a member of a jury to consider whether you would have given William Barrett his freedom or sent him to the Gallows.

Book your place on the Jury and join us for this unique experience.

Sit in the same Court as Barrett appeared in January 1889.

Hear the evidence no jury has ever been allowed to hear and then …………you decide.

Admin and Booking

Friday 2nd February 2024 at 7.00 pm-9pm Buy Tickets

Friday 1st March 2024 at 7pm-9pm Buy Tickets

Please note:

This event is not suitable for persons under 18 years of age.

It is strictly limited to 24 persons.

There is no wheelchair access to the court.