Langport Herald Sat 12 Jan 1856
Just as we are going to press an accident of a serious nature occurred to Mr. R. Hurman, traveller for Mr Lang, of Hambridge
Mills. It appears Mr Hurman
was riding at a very rapid pace towards the Turnpike gate at the western end of
town, which being shut the horse came into violent contact with it – bursting
it open & injuring the horse to such an extent that he must in all
probability be destroyed. Mr. Hurman who was thrown off by the concussion received a
severe wound in the head, but it is hoped not of a fatal character.