Western Times, Devon Grand Wrestling at Heavitree: Jordan first prize (1830)

DEVON AND EXETER WRESTLING MATCH FOR FORTY SOVEREIGNS — THE BLUE BALL, HEAVITREE. Whit-monday this match commenced. Stone and Wm. Bolt commenced.—Stone was laid on a side fall in the early part of the contest; no sooner gained his legs than he began with kicking, which was returned by his antagonist without flinching, and terminated in a united effort, which produced a complete somerset.

Cann and Wm. Bradford were next opposed to each other. Nearly two hours of scientific play ensued, when both made a rally and Cann took a lock over his opponent with his hand. Bradford extricated himself and both went down. Cann got up and renewed his efforts till he succeeded in throwing Bradford a beautiful fall, which called forth the loudest plaudits from all present. The best lovers of this ancient game were completely satisfied during this admirable display of science on both sides.

Jordan the first prize of 12 sovereigns; Avery the second 6 sovereigns; Webber third, 3 sovereigns; Harvey fourth, 2 sovereigns; Trace fifth, 1 sovereign. The triers were Mr. John Gibbons, of Cox’s; Mr. John Ellicombe, Polsloe, Heavitree; William Rowe, of Exeter.