The
Green Bicycle Murder
One of the most fascinating murder cases in legal history took place in the
South Leicestershire countryside. During the summer of 1919, a young Stoughton
woman, Bella Wright, aged twenty-one, was shot dead. Her body was discovered
by a farmer walking along the quiet Burton Overy Road towards Stretton. Months
later, a green bicycle was found in the canal, and traced to its owner, Ronald
Light, who soon found himself on trial for his life.
The case took several twists and turns. The trial turned on the detailed history
of the green bicycle which the suspect was seen riding near the crime scene.
The accused was defended at Leicester Court by Sir Edward Marshall Hall. The
famous advocate put forward a plucky and highly effective defence leading to
his client's acquittal on all charges.
Leicester Spokes has run two events on this fascinating case. The first, on 27 April 2003, saw fifty four cyclists, aged 7 to 70 heard Professor David Hughes explain the case. David has produced two new pieces of evidence that he says would have been admissible if produced during Ronald Light’s lifetime. The new evidence, if placed before a jury, might have thrown up a miscarriage of justice.
On 23 August 2009, we repeated the event as part of Leicester City Council’s series of Skyrides. We may do it again if there is sufficient demand. Please email us if you would like us to consider a re-run.
You can see photos of the 2009 event On This Link
You can read more about the case in Wendy East’s book. Professor Hughes is considering authoring an new chapter for a re-print of this book about the fresh evidence. You can also read more on the internet at-
BBC online
Wikipedia
The Aftermath website
The Internet Movie Database