From its earliest traceable origins, The Plough grew steadily from a simple alehouse into one of Weston Turville’s most important public venues. Local historian Hamish Eaton [22] reasonably suggests that this establishment was already operating in 1685 as The Plow Inn—a claim that, while unprovable, aligns with the village’s pattern of early domestic ale‑selling. (1685 is the year William Martyn is charged with keeping an unlicensed alehouse, but no identification of the name of the establishment.) 

By 1753, the inn had clearly taken shape as a functioning hostelry. William Jones (1716-1756), a Weston Turville native, appears in the county recognizances [1] as the licensed publican or beer seller, a role that would have required him to manage brewing or procurement of ale, maintain order, and serve the needs of travellers and villagers alike. His son, John Jones (1754-1836), succeeded him by 1792 [1], indicating a stable, long‑standing family operation that probably extended well beyond these dates.

The Plough’s growing importance is unmistakable by the 1790s. In 1794, it was already reputable and large enough to host property auctions. [20] Evidence that The Plough had expanded well beyond the scale of a cottage alehouse. Weston Turville had no halls or assembly rooms at the time, making The Plough the primary venue for societies, inquests, auctions and feasts.

Together, these milestones chart The Plough Inn’s evolution from a probable 17th‑century alehouse into a recognised and economically significant village institution—one worthy of acquisition by a regional brewery at the close of the 18th century.

Evidence of the inn’s high status is found in the administration of land claims. In 1797-8, the complete list of enclosure claims was physically posted on the parish church door and at "the public house called The Plough in Weston Turville." This served as the official location for "the inspection of all parties interested therein," proving that the inn was the primary social and administrative landmark of the village.[22] 

The inn’s importance was further immortalized on William Collisson’s Enclosure Map of 1799. Notably, "The Plow" was the only public house marked on this map, distinguishing it from other local establishments of the time.

Key Historical Details:

• Plot Designation: Identified as Plot 79.

• Description: Recorded as "The Plow Public House & Garden."

• Ownership: At the turn of the century, the property was owned by the partnership of Dell, Fell & Barker. Who also owned Plot 80

1796 This rising status set the stage for its transition into the tied‑house system. The Plough Inn was added to the tied pub estate of Dells Brewery.[49] 

John Jones, remained the licensed publican or beer seller during the transition.

Property Auctions continued at The Plough with one in January 1831.

The Plough Benefit Society was founded in 1831[2]  and a room set aside for its member's use. It formed part of a lively local network of friendly and benefit societies that provided sickness pay, funeral benefits, savings and social activities for working people before the welfare state.

By 1874, the society had grown to around 40 members, with funds amounting to approximately £40 held in a savings bank. Members contributed 1 shilling and 6 pence per month, in exchange for benefits including 8 shillings in sick pay, £4 upon a member's death, and £2 upon the death of a member's wife. The society was officially registered, and the landlord of The Plough Inn acted as treasurer. However, a government commission in 1874 highlighted some irregular practices, such as using funds for feasts, funerals, and other non-standard expenses, as well as the society's heavy reliance on the landlord's influence. Earlier in its history, the group had periodically broken up and divided its funds among members, though this practice was abandoned several years before the 1874 inquiry.

A key aspect of the society's activities was its social events, particularly the annual feasts, with bands and other entertainment about ninety attended in 1867.[5]  These included a three-day celebration at Whitsuntide which could include parades to the parish church with bands and a Christmas supper. Costs for these feasts were largely covered out-of-pocket by members, with some support from local farmers rather than from the society's formal funds. The Feast days were considered a holiday, many villagers availed themselves of the opportunity of paying a visit to the reservoir, and having a row. There were also regular Club nights, which occasionally led to drunk and disorderly charges with harsh fines.[64], [34]  In theory, club nights in club rooms could have enabled bypassing public house regulations such as closing times, excise duties or full licensing fees, though it is not clear if this "loophole" was used.

Although no direct records of a formal merger between The Plough Benefit Society and The Britannia Benefit Society have been found in historical accounts, the latter's use of The Plough Inn for events in the early 1900s suggests a possible consolidation or succession, as smaller societies often combined resources amid declining participation. In 1907, the Royal Brittania Benefit Society is described as "in a thriving condition, having to their credit no less a sum than £6 19s. 1½d. per member."[65]  By 1908 and other clubs "dwindelling down to next-to-nothing" the Royal Brittania Benefit Society still has a membership of 31, with an average amount of funds per member of £7 is. 10 d., and appears to be in a prosperous condition.[10]

Broader changes, such as the National Insurance Act of 1911 and the establishment of the National Health Service in 1948, reduced the need for such mutual aid groups, leading to the winding down of many by mid-century.

1851 The cash box belonging to the Union club, held at the Plough Inn, was stolen from the club room, containing about £8. The box was found empty in Weston Brook. [16] 

1834 The license was transferred to John Fitkin. [19] 

The Fitkin family were known as carpenters, builders and undertakers, but also seem to be into hospitality. Several members of the family were in the Weston Turville Cricket team.

• Barrington Fitkin who was the licensee at The Chequers Inn, and owner of The Vine.

• Thomas Fitkin owner of The (Old) Crown

The Purssell family were the most active dynasty active in Weston Turville hospitality. The Vine, Chandos Arms (Sarah Purssell was the wife of Alfred Ginger), Chequers Inn, The Elephant, Sot's Hole and Black Horse all had Purssell family connections. There were several event at the Plough that were hosted by the Purssell family". There was an inquest for William Purssells in 1894 at The Plough.

1840 The license was transferred from Fitkin to Reubin Purssell[3] (Barrington Fitkin owned Chequers Inn)

1841 Census shows Reubin Purssell (27) Victualler, Eliza (29), Isabella (6), Elizabeth (5 months) also Charles 13

1843 Reuben Purcell one measure out of eight deficient. Convicted, and fined 2s. 6d. costs 12s 6d. Richard Purcell (cousin?), landlord of "The Chandos Arms" was also convicted of the same offence.

1851 Census shows Reuben Purssell is described as a carpenter and he and his family are living in Church End.

1864 Peter Purssell entertained upwards of forty aged villagers at Mr. Kirtland's Plough Inn and sent a great many dinners out to those who from their infirmities were unable to attend. [43] 

The Kirtland family's association with The Plough Inn spans over four decades in the 19th century, making it the longest recorded tenures in the inn's history (There could be longer earlier tenures such as the Jones family but we lack the records to back them up). Starting with William Kirtland Sr., who took over as victualler around 1851, the family combined innkeeping with blacksmithing, contributing to the village's social and economic life. Their era ended in 1893 when William Kirtland Jnr. sold much of the contents the property was offered to let by Walton Brewery. 

Key Family Members

• William Kirtland Sr. (c. 1816–1885): The primary figure, he married Mary Eldridge in 1848 and managed the inn as a victualler and blacksmith. He was also an overseer, reflecting his civic role.

• Mary Kirtland (nee Eldridge, c. 1816–c. 1886): Supported the family business and continued residing at the inn after her husband's death. Her grandfather was also a Smith, both she and William Kirtland lived with him at the 1841 census. Her mother is recorded as a boarder Catherine Eldridge in The Plough for the 1871 census.

• William Kirtland Jr. (c. 1849–?): Assisted as a blacksmith and took over operations post-1885, though faced bankruptcy in 1907. William was well know as a great cricketer, was the chairman of the Chandos Arms Slate Club and trustee of Widow Turpin's Charity.

• Mary Ann Kirtland (c. 1854–?): Daughter who helped manage after her father's death, listed as occupant in the 1891 census. William and Mary also had a daugher, Emma.

• William (Willett) Kirtland (another one confusing isn't it?) living at The Plough and described in the 1881 and 1891 census as (born 1845/6) boarder, servant and Smith from Kirtlington, Oxfordshire. He was the subject of an 1880 legal action by Daniel George Hall, brewer of Oxford, who makes a claim on William Kirtland, blacksmith, Weston Turville. Claim for goods, £2 2s. 9d. The Registrar enquired how it was the case came into that court, and was told that the defendant was living at Kirtlington when summons was taken out. An order was made for payment of 5s. per month.[36] In 1901 he is a blacksmith lodging with the Axtell family on Main Street.

In 1906 license  for The Old Crown, Weston Turville was transfered to William Willett Kirtland, possibly part of the same dynasty?

Community Role and Events

The Plough under the Kirtlands hosted numerous gatherings. These events underscore the inn's role as a social center in Weston Turville. 

• Club Feasts and Anniversaries: Hosted in 1854 (Whit-Monday supplies for feasts at The Plough and Chandos Arms), 1857 (club anniversaries), and 1859.

• Sports and Recreation: 1862 pigeon shooting; 1867 An easy victory over Aston Clinton, splendid batting by W. Kirtland; 1869 cricket supper after a victory over Aston Clinton; noted as a great cricketer in later bankruptcy reports.

• Harvest and Civic Gatherings: 1870 hot dinner for 170 at Harvest Festival; 1887 ample dinner for 220 at Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee; 1891–1892 allotment holders' suppers and Harvest Home (said to be alternating with The Crown).[22] 

• Inquests and Legal Roles: Venue for inquests in 1866 (Louisa Bunce & William Perssell), 1884 (William Verey, gun accident), and 1887 (Ethel Walton), highlighting its quasi-official status.

• William Jr. was also civically active as chairman of the Chandos Arms Slate Club and trustee of Widow Turpin's Charity.

 An Ardent Patriot

William Kirtland Jnr. was associated with loyal celebration and community spirit.

He supplied a hot dinner for 220 villagers during Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee festivities in 1887.

He organised and erected a triumphal arch outside The Plough in 1889 when the Shah of Persia passed when the Shah was the guest of Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild, M.P. 

Two weeks later, William Kirtland, and his team worked from first light to create a striking display of evergreens and flags to greet Prince of Wales (popularly known as Bertie", later King Edward VII)when he passed The Plough. Suspended across the road were the Prince’s crest, the Three Ostrich Feathers, and the motto "Ich dien". As the Prince passed The Plough, he raised his hat and waved to the crowd gathered outside.[66]

In 1885 William snr. dies, aged 71, leaving no will.[37] His daughter Mary Ann and wife Mary continued living at the Plough. Mary however died about 12 month later. William snr's lack of book keeping led to a sell off of property and a downward financial spiral. Financial records reveal challenges with a 1887 bill of sale[23, 29]. 

William jnr continued the business, and sold his fathers five cottages and shop for about £500. 

Other Significant Events

1861 The vote of William Kirtland was objected to by the Conservatives, on the ground of insufficient qualification. His vote was allowed when it was found that he paid £12 a year for his premises.[35] 

1872 The Plough Inn, which had been part of the Dell, Fell and Barker tied estate was transfered to Parrott, Walker & Co. with beer supplied by their Walton Brewery. This is reflected in the 1872 Public House Returns for Bucks.[21]

Kirtland era ends in 1893. William sells up and Walton Brewery, offer The Plough Inn with Blacksmith's Shop and paddock to Let[30]

1901 Mr. W Kirtland puts up for auction at "The Plough Inn" one or two lots consisting of "House, Shop and cottage property" Bucks. Herald 06 Apr 1901 

1907 William Kirtland, farrier of Weston Turville is bankrupt and throws light on The Plough's finances and lax book keeping before he took it over from his father, in 1885.[37] 

Probably not such a big deal for the Kirtlands who were the tenants throughout this period. The beer would now come from Walton Brewery and he’d pay J&T Parrott for beer and rent..

Joseph Parrott was married to Maria Sarah Dell and was the executor for Thomas Dell

J&T Parrott were also still solicitors.

Parrott, Walker & Co. had about 145 tied pubs, and with a Horse and Dray with delivery range of about 12 miles - that was about 1 of their pubs for every 3 sq. miles. This compares to 1 per 12.7 sq. miles for Dell, Fell & Barker.

The stability of tenure at The Plough are about to change

Frequent License Transfers (1895–1900)

1895

• Dell Brewery Aylesbury was re-developed into The Public Baths 

• August: During the annual licensing session, it was reported that the licence for The Plough Inn had been transferred twice in the previous twelve months.[33] One of those was the June  transfer to Albert E. Sharp.[32] We haven't discoverd the other.

  • October: Transfer to William Westlake[31]

1897

• Whit‑Monday:

The Hardwick v. Weston Turville cricket match was won by Hardwick. The Weston Turville Brass Band played selections throughout the afternoon.

After the match, both teams and their guests enjoyed a repast at The Plough Inn, served by host William Westlake (Bucks Advertiser).

• Later in 1897:

Licence transferred from William Westlake to William Dennison.[26] Kelly’s Directory still lists him at The Plough in 1897

1900

• 21 April, Petty Sessions:

Licence transferred from James Thorne to William Henry Gardner of St Pancras.

Early 20th‑Century Landlords (1901–1907)

1901

• Census:

  • Frederick J. Rumsey (32), Publican; Edith E. Rumsey (27); Daughter Edith (1)

• Later in 1901:

Licence transferred from F. J. Rumsey to Bernard Van Baars of Islington (born in Germany).[6]

1903

Kelly’s Directory confirms Bernard Van Baars as landlord.

1905

The license for The Plough Inn is transfered to Henry Day, of Plymouth, Devon in May 1905.

1906

• March: Licence transferred from Henry Day to Walter Keel of Cork.[7]

• December: Licence transferred from Walter Keel to Thomas Brill of Streatham.[24]

1907

• October: Licence transferred from Thomas Brill to George Henry Clarke of Northampton.

A Curious Court Case (1908)

In 1908, The Plough Inn briefly entered the local news when Messrs. G. Graves, jewellers of Sheffield, sued landlord George Clarke for 9s. 5d. for goods allegedly supplied — specifically a costume and a pair of corsets.

Clarke denied ordering or receiving the items.

During the hearing:

• The judge, with humour, asked Clarke: “You do not wear corsets, do you?” (Laughter in court.)

• Clarke maintained the signature on the order was not his.

• After comparing handwriting samples, the judge agreed the signatures did not match.

Judgment:

• For the defendant (George Clarke)

• 10s. costs awarded

The judge remarked that the firm likely had “hundreds of those cases” and should know how to prove them properly.

Early 1910s: A Period of Change

In 1910, The Plough came under scrutiny at the Annual Licensing Meeting, where it was described as “not well conducted”.[11] The then‑landlord was prosecuted, convicted, and subsequently temporarily replaced by William Britten. That same year, the licence passed once more, from William Britten to John James Edward Worman of Peckham.[12]

John and Florence Worman were seasoned entertainers who had travelled widely on the variety and music hall circuits . John Worman died on 1 September 1912, prompting a series of rapid licence transfers. In October, the licence moved to his widow, Florence Worman,[27] and by December it had passed again—this time to Florence Worman, who then transferred it to Albert Beagley of Farnham.[14]

1913–1916: New Landlords and Wartime Challenges

In December 1913, the licence was transferred from Albert Beagley to Frederick Wells of Fishponds, Bristol.[38] A year later, in 1914, Wells handed the licence to William Kirby of Weston Turville.[18]

Kirby soon found himself in trouble: he breached wartime blackout regulations and made an ill‑judged outburst in court.[14] By 13 May 1916, the licence had been transferred again—this time to William Hope of Goring Heath.[19] 

1920s: Stability and Community Life

On 7 October 1922, William Hope transferred the licence to Arthur Gwilym Rees of 80 King’s Road, Chelsea.[39]

By the late 1920s, was more stable, though in about 1925, the license transfered to Herbert Thomas Sells of Guildford, Surrey. In 1927, the Weston Turville branch of the British Legion—then 75 members strong—moved its headquarters from The Plough to the Chandos Arms, sending a formal letter of thanks to Mr. Sells, the landlord at the time.[56]

Herbert Thomas Sells is listed as proprietor in Kelly’s Directory from 1928 to 1931.

1935–1939: The Smith Family Era

In August 1935, the licence transferred from Herbert Sells to Stanley George Smith. Stanley, his wife Annie, and his parents George and Eva all lived at The Plough. George, who had previously run the Victoria Club in Aylesbury, died in November 1936.

The Plough developed a strong reputation for darts during this period, with both men’s and women’s teams achieving notable success:

• 1936: The ladies’ team beat the Royal Standard 3–1.[45]

• 1937: The ladie’s team, captained by Mrs Smith, won their away match against The Bell in Bicester (Bucks Herald, 26 March 1937).

• 1937: The Aylesbury Brewery Co. (ABC), owners of The Plough, decided to cease brewing at the Walton Brewery, opting instead to buy beer from larger breweries.[63] ABC imported Benskins mild and Ind Coope bitter and focused investment into bottling. Labels changed to state "bottled at the Brewery" on their own bottles and "Bottled by Aylesbury Brewery" for bottles for Guinness and Bass at least.[45]

• 1938: The Wycombe Open Darts Tournament was held at The Plough, attracting 60 teams competing for the “Plough Inn Silver Cup.” A one‑hour licensing extension was refused, though a half‑hour extension was granted.

• 1938: The ladies' darts team "put up a fine show" in the first round of the "Paterson Shield"

• 1939: B. Hare from "The Plough team" reach the last 32 in the News of the World Area Competition.

The 1939 Register records the household as follows:

• Stanley G. Smith – Licensed victualler and chartered accountant’s clerk

• Annie E. Smith – Unpaid domestic and licensed trade duties

• Eva M. Smith – Unpaid domestic and licensed trade duties

• Herbert Stratford – Baker (Who had been the landlord of the Seven Stars, Broughton)

Plus four children living on the premises

A surprise tenant

• He’s 65 when he arrives at The Plough from Islington. He’s been a cabinet maker, Fruiterer and Florist

• Born 26 Jun 1836 in Germany to Dutch Parents, 

• Married Mary Ann Francis Dowling in London 19th July 1863.

• Integration into Weston Turville society (publican, Grocer, Weston Turville cricket team founding member etc) and doesn't seem to have been victimised in any way during the great war.

  • 1904 on the committee of the newly formed Weston Turville Cricket Club.

  • 1904 Vegetables won prizes at the Weston Turville Cottage Garden Society

  • 1905 Attended the Unionist Meeting at the Schoolroom, Weston Turville to hear Hon. Walter Rothschild MP.

• The license for The Plough Inn is transfered to Henry Day, of Plymouth, Devon in May 1905.

• Runs a Sweet Shop in The Plough. 

• Died 1916 aged 80

• His wife and daughter remain in Weston Turville

In the early hours of Friday, January 23, 1909, a disastrous fire broke out at The Plough Inn, Weston Turville. The event remains one of the most significant moments in the building's history, leading to the total loss of the original structure and a swift, community-led rebuilding effort.

The Midnight Alarm

The alarm was raised at 2:55 a.m., summoning the Wendover Fire Brigade. By the time Captain Dancer and his crew arrived at 3:35 a.m., the situation was already dire. The report submitted to the Wendover Parish Council described a harrowing scene: the entire house was in a "full blaze" and the roof had already collapsed.[8]

The occupants were forced to flee for their lives, escaping into the winter night wearing only their night attire.

Heroics at the Stables

Realizing the main inn was beyond saving, the Fire Brigade turned their attention to the adjoining thatched buildings—a blacksmith’s shop and stables.

• Strategic Defense: The crew focused their water supply on the thatch to prevent the fire from spreading further.

• Livestock Rescue: Firemen and local helpers successfully evacuated the pigs and poultry housed in the outbuildings.

• The Long Watch: The fire was finally brought under control at 10:30 a.m., but the danger was so great that men remained on duty through Saturday to watch for flare-ups.

"We found that we could not do any good to [the house], so we played on the so-called blacksmith's shop and stable adjoining same... a great portion was saved." — Captain Dancer’s Report

From the Ashes: The Rebuilding

The fire left the Aylesbury Brewery Company with a "gutted" shell, but they moved with remarkable speed to replace it. Only two weeks after the fire, plans for a new building were presented to the local authorities by Mr. Frank Higgens and architect G.H. Manning.

A Modern Design

The "new" Plough Inn was designed with the latest social regulations in mind, specifically the Children’s Bill. The plans included:

• A separate entrance for children to ensure they did not enter the main bar areas.

• A private room where children could stay without coming into contact with the retail trade.

The application was granted.[9]

A Parish Effort

While insurance companies (The Royal Insurance Company and London & Lancashire) and the Council debated the expenses of the Fire Brigade,[12] the ABC and the village took action. The reconstruction was a true community project, completed within the same year through the generous donations of funds, materials, and labor provided by the parishioners of Weston Turville.[22]

In 1911, the Fire Brigade costs, were still being debated with the County Fire Office and Insurance companies.[17]

The Offense

On August 1, Mr. George Henry Clarke, the landlord of The Plough Clarke was summoned for allowing a child under the age of 14 to be present in a "bar"—defined by the Children’s Act of 1908  as any area used exclusively or mainly for the sale and consumption of alcohol.

The Circumstances

• The Venue: Following a fire that destroyed the original pub, a coach-house on the property was being used as a temporary taproom.

• The Incident: Police Sergeant Greig, while in plain clothes, observed music, dancing, and singing coming from the coach-house at 8:45 p.m.

• The Discovery: Upon entering, the Sergeant found a girl (the landlord’s 8-year-old daughter) inside the room, while another daughter played the piano. A woman, Mrs. Barker, was also seen carrying a baby near the entrance.

The Verdict

Despite a plea of not guilty, the court determined the coach-house functioned as a licensed bar under the new law. Mr. Clarke was ordered to pay a fine of 5s and costs of £1 0s 6d.

When John and Florence Worman took over The Plough, they brought with them far more than the usual skills of innkeeping. Both were seasoned entertainers who had travelled widely on the variety and music hall circuits. John performed as the comedian Johnny Worman, while Florence appeared on stage as Madge Daly, a burlesque comedienne known for her lively humour and musical flair. The pair married in 1896, and upon retiring from the stage became the tenants of The Plough Inn.

Florence, in particular, infused the pub with a warm, cabaret‑like atmosphere. Regulars recalled her performing music hall medleys for customers.[42] 

Life at The Plough

Isabella continued the entertainment traditions performing a “fairy dance” at the Church Room in February 1911.

The 1911 Census

By 1911, the Worman household at The Plough consisted of:

• John James Edward Worman, 43 – Innkeeper

• Florence Worman, 35 – his wife

• Isabella Ellen Worman, 12 – their daughter

• Elsie Charlotte Gomm, 16 – a live‑in servant

A Glimpse into Florence’s World

In 1911, intriguing notices appeared in newspaper personal columns in which Florence Worman sought contact with Maude Kaye, likely the well known comedienne and dancer. It is not known if the advertisements yielded a response.[12]

Loss and Transition (1912)

The Worman era came to an abrupt turning point in 1912:

• 1 September 1912 – John Worman died, leaving effects valued at £121 10s 4d to Florence.

• October 1912 – The licence for The Plough was formally transferred from the late John James Edward Worman to Mrs. Florence Worman.[27]

• December 1912 – the licence from Florence to Albert Beagley of Farnham, bringing the Worman tenure to a close.[14]

These rapid changes suggest that Florence, recently widowed and with a young daughter, may have found it difficult to continue running the inn alone.

William Kirby, Plough Inn, Weston Turville, was summoned for an offence on March 6, and pleaded not guilty.-

In February 1916, blackout restrictions were extended across the whole of England.

Though Kirby had purchased 6 blinds, The Plough was found to have bright lights shining through the windows in the taproom, and also from the glass panel of the taproom door. There were also bright lights shining from the back of the house and no blinds drawn at the windows.

William Kirby's had been warned but said he would not put his house in mourning for the police, the King of England, or his Government, as he had to get his living out of his house, and would not darken his windows for anyone.

His statements:- 

"I have done all the lights you told me to.", 

"You are trying to make money out of poor people."

"God save the people and almost wished he had not been born a Britisher."

Did little to improve his case.

The Chairman said the Bench thought defendant had behaved very foolishly. He had not complied with the Order, and from his remarks that morning it was evident he did not intend to comply. No doubt he would duly comply when he realised the seriousness of the offence. He must pay a fine of £1, or go to prison for fourteen days. Defendant: I am leaving the house, or I should not pay it. The Chairman: You need not talk to me any more about it.[14]

1916 (13 May) License transferred from William Kirby to William Hope of Goring Heath.[19]

1916 (13 May) License transferred from William Kirby to William Hope of Goring Heath.[19] 

At the 1921 census, The Plough Inn is occupied by:- 

• William Hope (age 50); Occupation Publican

• Emma Hope (age 46); Occupation Publican

• Their daughter Vera Hope (age 22); Employed W.A. Darracott Poultry; Mandlarlle Grange

We know more about Vera's life while living at The Plough than we do about her parents.

She was twice in court, once in 1919 for having no rear light on her bicycle (fined 7s. 6d) and the was charged with assaulting her employer's wife in 1921. From the assault case, we know she rode (presumably on a bicycle) from home and didn't like being addressed as "Hope" or called "a barmaid". In 1922, Miss V Hope displayed her rabbits (mature and young Blue Beverens, young Chinchillas in the fancier's section at Aylesbury Printing Works Flower Show.

Summary of the Aylesbury Petty Sessions Case (28 October 1921)

At the Aylesbury Petty Sessions, Vera Hope, employed at the Mandeville Poultry Farm and living at The Plough Inn, Weston Turville, was summoned by Mrs. Millicent Blanche Thurza Darracott for assault on 14 October. Hope pleaded not guilty.

Complainant’s Account

• A male customer visited the farm, and Mrs. Darracott twice called Hope down from the room above the stables.

• Hope allegedly came down “insulting,” prompting Mrs. Darracott to retort, “You are nothing but a barmaid.”

• Hope then allegedly attacked her: punching her back and neck, tearing her dress, and pulling her hair down.

• Mrs. Darracott claimed this was the third assault, and that she lived in fear of Hope.

• A maid, Minnie Hawkins, supported seeing Hope strike the complainant several times.

• A police sergeant confirmed seeing fresh marks on Mrs. Darracott’s neck shortly after the incident.

Defendant’s Account

• Hope said she had been working upstairs with a visitor, Miss Grimsdale, when Mrs. Darracott called her down rudely.

• She claimed she only insisted on being spoken to properly.

• She denied any assault, saying she merely brushed past Mrs. Darracott, who was obstructing her from showing the customer around.

• She objected to being addressed simply as “Hope.”

• A farm worker, Joseph Gomito, said he saw no assault.

Outcome

After deliberation, the magistrates concluded that a technical offence had been committed, but it was so minor that the case was dismissed in the interests of all parties.

1922 (07 Oct) License transferred from William Hope to Arthur Gwilym Rees, 80 King's Road, Chelsea.[39]

Arthur Gwilym Rees arrived at The Plough as another unlikely landlord. An ex‑RAF officer, he had been injured in April 1918, and by the time of the 1921 Census he was rebuilding his life as a “Student of Singing” at the Royal College of Music. His address at the time of taking the licence—80 King’s Road, Chelsea.[39]

The Rees chapter at The Plough began on 7 October 1922, when the licence was transferred from the previous landlord William Hope to Arthur. Just over a year later, on 17 November 1923, the licence passed again—this time from Arthur to his father, William Rees.[40]

Despite his short tenure, Arthur and his wife Mabel Rees made a memorable impact. In 1923, they invested heavily in modernising the inn, creating an exclusive upstairs lounge and adding a large marquee to expand its social space. Their promotional and aspirational campaign branded The Plough as “The Inn with Old Time Spirit” are really entertaining to read today.

Arthur’s time as a victualler was brief. After transferring the licence to his father, he left the trade entirely and reinvented himself as a travelling actor. This new career path would define the rest of his life. He provides the only image we have of the pre-fire Plough Inn.

His later life was colourful and sometimes turbulent.

• In 1934, Arthur applied for registration under Theatrical Employers, formalising his career on the stage.

• That same year, Mabel Annie Rees petitioned for divorce, citing Arthur’s misconduct with Jane Winifred Whatley at their Richmond address, and with another unnamed woman in a Sheffield hotel.

• By the 1939 Register, Arthur appears as a disabled travelling actor living in Weston‑Super‑Mare, Somerset.

• In December 1940, he was still performing, appearing in an excerpt from Jack and the Beanstalk staged “For The Forces” in Birmingham.

We assume the license transfered to Herbert Thomas Sells in 1925, when he first appears in Weston Turville on the electoral roll. The Sell's appear on our "Postman's Map" that is C1926. 

In 1927, the Weston Turville branch of the British Legion—then 75 members strong—moved its headquarters from The Plough to the Chandos Arms, sending a formal letter of thanks to Mr. Sells, the landlord at the time.[56]

In August 1935, the licence transferred from Herbert Sells to Stanley George Smith.

An era of community, charity, cricket and character

Jim and Mickie Aitchison ran The Plough Inn, Weston Turville for twenty‑one lively, generous and unforgettable years. Arriving in the area in 1961 through Jim’s posting to RAF Halton, they took over The Plough in 1966 and quickly turned it into a warm, bustling hub of village life.

A Landlord with Cricket in His Blood

Jim was a devoted supporter—and tireless fundraiser—for Middlesex County Cricket Club. His enthusiasm brought a steady stream of cricketing connections into the pub, and over the years The Plough became a familiar stop for players, beneficiaries, and supporters.

Cricket Highlights at The Plough

• 1984 – Graham Barlow’s Benefit:

Jim & Mickie organised a raffle and buffet in support of Middlesex and England cricketer Graham Barlow.

• • The star prize: a cricket bat signed by the 1983 Benson & Hedges Cup–winning Middlesex team.

  • Barlow and teammate Roland Butcher joined the regulars for the draw.

• 1986 – A Visit from John Emburey:

  • Middlesex and England Test spinner John Emburey dropped in personally to thank Jim for his long‑standing support of Middlesex beneficiaries.

• 1987 – Clive Radley’s Benefit:

Jim raffled another prized bat, this time autographed by the 1987 Middlesex and Yorkshire teams, raising funds for Clive Radley’s benefit season.

Also a football team

In the 1970s the pub also had a football team in the Sunday Cup, Division 1

Burns Night at The Plough

One of Jim’s proudest traditions was the annual Burns Night celebration, complete with an RAF ceremonial piper.

The only year it didn’t take place was 1977, when the piper was called away to assist during the national fire service strike

The Infamous Chinnor Rugby Club Incident (1983)

In 1983, The Plough became part of a story that made local headlines.

After a match in Hemel Hempstead, 26 members of Chinnor Rugby Club were arrested on their coach in Longwick following a chaotic, crime‑ridden pub crawl.

Among the items recovered by police was a plaque presented to Jim when he left the RAF—spirited away from The Plough during the evening’s misadventures.

(Other pubs retrieved their stolen pub signs and beer glasses.)

Community, Charity & Everyday Life

Jim and Mickie fostered a pub culture built on friendliness, humour, and generosity.

Long‑Running Charity Traditions

• For 20 years, a charity box sat on the bar.

Regulars would drop in loose change in exchange for the use of a set of darts.

• • Sadly, the box was stolen in May 1986, ending a much‑loved tradition.

• 1987 – Hospice Appeal:

The Plough’s regulars raised £68 for the local hospice fund.

A Place for Events & Local Activity

• 1986 – Car Boot Sales:

The Plough became a recognised venue for car boot sales, as noted in the Bucks Advertiser (4 July 1986).

• 1987 – Quiz League Success:

The pub finished as runners‑up in the Aylesbury Brewing Company inter‑pub general knowledge quiz league.

• 1987 – CAMRA Recognition:

The Plough was included in CAMRA’s Good Pub Guide, a testament to its atmosphere and well‑kept beer.

Seven years of steady stewardship, quiz‑league triumphs, and community life

When Jim and Mickie Aitchison retired in 1987 after more than two decades at The Plough Inn, the baton passed to Maurice and Mary Dedman, who arrived from the Golden Cross in Saunderton. Their calm, capable stewardship guided The Plough through the next seven years, preserving its reputation as a friendly village pub with a strong competitive spirit. The Dedman's managed the transition from being an Allied Breweries tied pub being part of Fuller's tied estate.

A New Chapter Begins (1987)

Maurice and Mary settled into Weston Turville life, maintaining the pub’s traditions. Under their care, the pub continued to be included in CAMRA’s Good Pub Guide. The Dedmans also inherited a thriving quiz culture — and The Plough’s teams continued to shine.

Quiz League Success

The late 1980s saw The Plough’s teams competing in the Bucks Herald Quiz League reach new heights, with both the A and B teams making headlines, often with the Chandos Arms close behind.

Children In Need appeal

In 1990, the staff of Klargester, Aston Clinton dressed up as schoolmasters and mistresses for a lunchtime visit to The Plough. The 50 stayed in costume all day and raised £350. Their photograph from The Bucks Herald provides a view of the pub from a different angle, highlighting the entrance porch, lantern and pub sign on the side of the building.

1994 (Oct) Maurice and Mary Dedman retire and 12 Guinea fowl, Chinese pheasant, three ducks and a goat all found new homes. The Plough closes for refurbishment.

The Conservative government of Margaret Thatcher introduced the 1989 Supply of beer (Tied Estate) order. The purpose was to break up tied estates and increase competition.

Fullers purchased 44 pubs from Allied Breweries in Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire, increasing their total estate to over 200 outlets.

This included "The Plough Inn" and several other local establishments, such as The Bell (Bierton), The Oak (Aston Clinton), and the Black Horse (Askett).

While The Plough Inn had survived for over three centuries as a village staple, the late 1990s marked a period of rapid instability. The establishment struggled to find its footing after the retirement of the Dedmans, leading to a tumultuous final chapter.

More positively

In the summer months of 1990's The Aylesbury Off Road Racing Club (Radio Control) met at the rear of The Plough.

A Period of Instability (1995–1998)

The mid-90s saw a revolving door of management, with three different landlords in just three years.[47] This lack of continuity culminated in a string of unfortunate events in 1998:

• May 1998: The pub was targeted by a daylight burglary. Between 3:15 PM and 5:00 PM on a Saturday, thieves made off with the contents of the till.[50]

• July 1998: The decline reached a breaking point. Following a visit from bailiffs and the disconnection of electricity, landlords Mark and Joanne Trenor abruptly "left" the premises. They left behind significant debts and 11 cats, which were eventually rescued by the RSPCA.[47]

The Final Planning Battle (1999–2000)

In August 1998, brewery owners Fuller Smith & Turner appointed Bob Moult as the new landlord in an attempt to stabilize the business.[46] By 1999, the brewery proposed an ambitious modernization plan to save the pub, including:

• An increased bar area and internal alterations.

• A new front terrace area.

• An extension of the car park.

Despite the brewery's investment, the application was initially refused under delegated powers in December 1999.

The Threat of Closure

By January 2000, the situation had become dire. Records from a Parish Council meeting show that Councillor Smith warned that if the development was not permitted, the pub would likely close permanently and the land would be sold for housing. The Parish Council agreed not to object to the revised proposals, urging the district planning officer to support the development in hopes of keeping The Plough's doors open.