15th April 1812: Disturbances in Barnsley

The Leeds Mercury of 18th April 1812 carried a brief report about disturbances in Barnsley on Wednesday 15th April:

On Wednesday (the market day) at Barnsley, a disposition to riot manifested itself; the cause of complaint alledged, was the high price of provisions, particularly potatoes. In consequence of an express sent to G. W. Wentworth, Esq. the magistrate, who, knowing that the Wakefield Royal Volunteers were that day on duty, sent orders to them and the Wakefield troop of Yeomanry Cavalry to prepare immediately to set out for Barnsley. The latter commenced their march with all expedition, but were met on the road by a messenger, informing them that the civil power alone had succeeded in allaying the tumult. They immediately returned, and stopped the infantry, just ready to commence their march.