When I got four of the best in 1958, the bruises, four seperate wealds, stayed very clearly on both cheeks of my bum for two weeks, fading during the third week. From anecdotal evidence, plus infamous Mr Noel McKay Headmaster of Rongatai College in Wellington NZ, canes were lighter in the 70s and 80s prior to abolition.
Getting to Jamie’s post. I have a South African friend of similar age to myself (middle 60s) and he related a similar experience that happened to one of his friends. His friend was sentenced by the court and got 8 strokes bare buttocks in the early 60s. My friend saw his friend’s buttocks two days after the event and he said the sight was sickening. His friend required medical treatment.
The caning was carried out in a cell at the local police station by a fit young police officer.