John Ashworth

Died on 16th August 1819

Special Constable Ashworth was sworn in as a Special Constable by Magistrates (prior to the formation of the Police Force) to assist in policing a public meeting on Peter’s Fields in Manchester, on the 16th August 1819. He was killed by a sabre wielded by a member of the cavalry who were trying to disperse the meeting. This event became known as the Peterloo Massacre.

His age was unknown.