| Description | Petition to the magistrates at the Quarter Sessions held at New Malton on 15 January 1802 from the inhabitants of Helmsley that a carriage bridge should be erected over the ford across the river Riccal. The river is liable to flood rapidly at the ford, and there have been accidents when people try to pass when the road is impassable, including one where two horses were drowned. Magistrates on business have had to wait until floods subside, and sick people, particularly women in labour, are in danger as the floods prevent the attendance of medical assistance. A bridge was built by the voluntary efforts of the inhabitants of Helmsley, but this bridge is now in decay
With signatures and abodes of over 90 local residents |