Morriston Bank Shooting Case: The Charges Against Trevor Morgan

Public Interest and Press Coverage

Midland Bank, Woodfield Street, Morriston Herald of Wales made clearer using AI

The case immediately attracted widespread public attention, not only because of the dramatic nature of the attempted hold‑up but also due to the remarkable composure and courage shown by the bank manager. On 6 September, the Herald of Wales published a photograph of the Midland Bank branch in Woodfield Street, giving readers a clear view of the scene where the confrontation unfolded. The image underscored the seriousness of the incident and contributed to the growing public interest surrounding the case.

The First Court Appearance, 3 September 1941

South Wales Evening Post

South Wales Evening Post

The unfolding events entered the public record when Trevor Morgan, aged 21, of Eaton Crescent, Uplands, appeared before Swansea Police Court charged with the attempted murder of the Midland Bank manager in Woodfield Street, Morriston. A former university student and employee of the Ministry of Aircraft Production, Morgan was accused of shooting Mr. Edward Osbourne Jones with intent to kill on 30 August 1941.

Detective‑Inspector Ebenezer Jones informed the court that Morgan had only recently been discharged from a mental institution, having abandoned his university studies shortly beforehand. It was also noted that he was a nephew of the well‑known Welsh entertainer Naunton Wayne. Because of the gravity of the charge, bail was opposed, and Morgan was remanded in custody until 17 September, with no plea entered.

The Alleged Hold‑Up, 4 September 1941

South Wales Evening Post

South Wales Evening Post

Morgan reappeared the following day before the Stipendiary Magistrate, Sir Marlay Samson, when further details of the incident were disclosed. According to Detective‑Inspector Jones, Morgan entered the Midland Bank at approximately 2.20 p.m., armed with a .45 revolver, and ordered the manager to move towards the rear of the premises. As the manager edged towards the door, Morgan allegedly fired a shot, the bullet passing through his coat without injuring him. Morgan fled but was quickly apprehended by two soldiers, who detained him until police arrived.

Sir Marlay Samson again refused bail, stating that he could not permit Morgan’s release under such circumstances, and remanded him until 17 September. Mr. Philip Jones appeared for the defence.

Evidence of a “Miraculous Escape”, 20 September 1941

Herald of Wales

Herald of Wales

Further testimony was heard later that month, when Morgan—now described as a science graduate—again faced the charge of attempted murder. The prosecution alleged that he had entered the manager’s office carrying two revolvers and ammunition, and that during a violent struggle one of the weapons discharged, the bullet tearing through the manager’s clothing.

The manager’s own account was vivid and dramatic. Hearing the office door open, he saw Morgan enter and produce a revolver, ordering him to raise his hands. Refusing to comply, he lunged at the weapon, seized Morgan by the wrists, and grappled with him in a desperate attempt to disarm him. During the struggle a shot was fired, narrowly missing him. Despite the danger, he succeeded in overpowering Morgan and restraining him until assistance arrived. Contemporary reports described his survival as a “miraculous escape”, noting that although the bullet pierced his coat, he was entirely unharmed.

The defence submitted that Morgan had a history of mental illness, had spent time in a public institution, and had recently been discharged from military service. Witnesses described him as withdrawn and troubled in the months preceding the incident. Representing the Crown was Mr. Arthur Jones, Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions, while Mr. Edward Vaughan James appeared for Morgan. After reviewing the evidence, the magistrates committed Morgan for trial at the Glamorgan Assizes, remanding him further in custody.