Vice Racket Trial Ends (Press, 22 September 1975)

On 21 September 1975, Charles Hornby, a well-known figure in London's social elite, faced serious criminal charges. The 33-year-old, educated at Eton and noted for his charm and good looks, was convicted after a three-month trial at the Old Bailey for conspiracy to procure acts of gross indecency involving males under 21, as well as committing acts of gross indecency and attempting to pervert justice. Alongside Hornby, four other men were also implicated in the case, and the sentencing was scheduled for later that week. Hornby, who worked as an underwriter at Lloyd's of London, was admired in high society and often hosted Prince Charles. He led a seemingly glamorous life, divided between his town house in London and a country estate near the Welsh border. He was married to Amanda Fitzwilliam Hyde, a former debutante, and they had three children together. However, beneath this façade of respectability lay a shocking criminal operation: Hornby was a key player in a "call-boy" vice racket that exploited vulnerable young boys. The trial revealed that Hornby frequented a place known as "Playlands," which was a hub for attracting young runaways by offering them money, meals, and shelter, ultimately luring them into homosexual prostitution. Witnesses testified that the venue was particularly attractive to young males in desperate situations, making them easy targets for those with more means. Hornby, who stood at 6ft 4in and had previously served as an officer in the 9th Lancers, would arrive at Playlands in his car to select from the new recruits for the vice operation. He would entertain these youths at his flat, even photographing them in several compromising poses. Over 30 youths were among the 70 prosecution witnesses, painting a disturbing picture of Hornby’s double life. While on remand in Brixton Prison, Hornby inherited an entire estate, which included a manor house and extensive grounds, highlighting the stark contrast between his wealthy background and his criminal activities. His family connections were notable, as his father had been the chairman of W.H. Smith, a significant newsagent, and his brother held the position of managing director. Hornby shared his criminal enterprise with four partners, including a taxi driver and a photographer who specialised in male models. Following the conclusion of the trial, local authorities, including Westminster City Council, began to act, seeking legal advice on how to address the continuation of operations at Playlands, with one councillor expressing a desire to see the establishment closed down in light of the revelations that emerged during the proceedings.

The text on this page is created, in the most part, using Generative AI and so may contain errors or omissions. It is supplied to you without guarantee or warranty of correctness. If you find an error or would like to make a content suggestion please get in contact

The text on this page is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 New Zealand