Harbours, Docks and Piers Clauses Act 1847

75 As to the recovery of amount of damage to quays, &c. U.K.

If the amount claimed in respect of any such damage as aforesaid do not exceed fifty pounds, such damage shall be ascertained, and the amount thereof shall, in England or Ireland, be recovered before two justices, and in Scotland before the sheriff; and in addition to the remedies hereby provided for the recovery of the same, the justices or sheriff before whom the same are recovered may cause the vessel or float of timber causing such damage, and any tackle and furniture thereof, to be distrained and kept until the amount of damages and costs awarded by them is paid, and, if the same be not paid within seven days after such distress or keeping, may cause the property so distrained or kept, or any part thereof, to be sold, and out of the proceeds of such sale may pay the amount of damages and costs awarded by such justices or sheriff, and all the charges incurred by the distress, keeping, and sale of such property.