100 Years Ago

Years Ago - April

April 1924

Five years’ record in labour disputes.

There are several weather related stories, with influenza still a problem and the worst outbreak for many years.

The funeral of Miss Lucy Constance Heaven took place at Abbotsham. Deceased was the eldest daughter of the late Mr De Bonniot Spencer Heaven, of Coombe Cot, Abbotsham, and formerly of Jamaica. The Rev Canon Kempe, assisted by Rev George Barne, conducted the funeral service. The body was conveyed to the church the previous evening and was received by the Vicar.

An interesting and very pretty wedding was solemnised at the Parish Church, Abbotsham, when Mary Bellew was joined in holy matrimony to Arthur Allin, of Babbacombe, Alwington. Lohengrin’s wedding march was rendered by the organist as the bride entered the church. She was charmingly attired in an ivory gown of marocain and georgette and a lace veil surmounted with orange blossom. She was attended by four bridesmaids, Miss N and E Bellew, and E and M Allin, who wore white crepe-de-chine dresses with red rosebuds and winged caps of white tulle with red rosebuds. They carried silver chain bags (the gifts of the bridegroom). After the ceremony and later in the day, amid many congratulations, Mr and Mrs A R Allin left for Torquay, where the honeymoon is being spent. The presents were numerous and costly.

Interesting presentations by past and present scholars and the villagers were made to Mr and Mrs C Hooper in appreciation of their much valued and long services with the parish as schoolmaster and mistress of the Abbotsham School, on their retirement.

There was a sad fatality at Alverdiscott when a farm worker, named Thorne, in the employ of Mr Samuel Friend, of Luppincott Farm, was leading a horse attached to a cart in which his master’s children were riding to school. Suddenly the horse took fright and bolted, upsetting the cart and throwing the children out. One of them fell underneath the vehicle and was killed, while another was injured. Assistance was rendered by Mr Thithecott.

The Centenary of the Appledore Lifeboat which falls next year will be marked by various events in the river.

The inspection of the scholars of the Council Infants School at Appledore on religious instruction took place by the Rev F J Morrish, BA, and his report has just been received. It is highly gratifying, as the following extract shows: “The characteristic efficiency of the work done by Miss F E Parkhouse, and her two assistants in this school…

Before a crowded audience at the Cinema, Appledore, the Vicar brought his much appreciated Lenten lectures, illustrated by Newton’s lantern slides, to a successful close, when he thanked Mr and Mrs Hawkins for placing the hall at his free disposal. He also thanked Mrs Muller, Miss Ellen Hinks, Miss S Pike, Miss Mary Hinks, Mrs Annie Lamey, Mr Sdyney Cocks, and Mr Thomas Pike for kindly contributing to the musical portion of the lecture. He also acknowledged the services of Mr Hearn and Miss Bilton in arranging the slides.

Tea on the Revenge at Appledore. Hundreds visited the Revenge or Empress as she lay on the sands in front of Mr Hink’s ship-breaking yard. It was a happy thought of the owner when he decided to allow public inspection at a cost for the benefit of Bideford and District Hospital. Large numbers went down to the vessel when the tide was out and all were well repaid for their journey from the lifeboat slip when they foot on deck.Planks have been placed across, with rails to prevent accidents, and two strings of flags have been hung from the masts giving a last dignified flourish to an old lady.

The Secretary of Bideford Hospital has received a cheque for £26.19.6 from Mr Henry Hinks being the money raised by making a small charge to visitors. From now on, the entrance money will go to the Vicar of Appledore’s Sick and Needy Fund, which has had many calls on its purse of late. With the berthing of the Revenge at Appledore, it is interesting to reflect that, very appropriately, Mr Jenkin, the pilot in supreme charge, a man who had risen from a sick bed to command of the venture, is a direct descendant of Nelson’s cox, who was nicknamed Warrier, and also of Mr Jenkin, a signalman, both of whom fought on his Majesty’s ship Victory. About 80 men will be employed on breaking up the vessel.

Appledore man’s thrilling story. Graphic stories of the wreck of the steamer Buchanness, which was driven on to the Casquets during a gale, were told by members of the crew, all of whom were saved. The captain and some of the crew were landed at Portsmouth by the naval auxiliary Slavol, and the officers and remaining crew at Portland by the steamer Baron Cawdor. Those landed at Portland included Second Office J Pettley, Appledore.

A large gathering of the members of the Appledore Mothers’ Meeting assembled at the Churchyard to pay their last respects to one of their youngest members, Mrs Lilian Braund, wife of Mr William Braund, and daughter of Mr and Mrs Richard Bowden, of Vernon Lane, Appledore. Mrs Muller presided at the organ. The death occurred at this residence, Northdene, Richmond-road, Appledore, of Mr William Smith, a tailor by trade and a native of Chulmleigh. He came to Appledore when a young man as an employee of Mr J Beara, tailor and outfitter, and had worked for the firm ever since. Miss Elizabeth Jewell, of No. 7 Vernon’s Lane, Appledore, daughter of the late Captain Jewell, was laid to rest after a prolonged illness, during which Mrs Ley had helped her niece Miss Ethel Harvey to nurse her.

Mr F W Andrews, with a Post Office Box address in British Columbia, Canada, advertises that he would like to communicate with some member of the family of Gethin P Jones, believed to live at Queen Street, Bideford. Does anyone know the story behind this appeal?

A wonderful, polite advert from H F Elliott of 75 High Street, Bideford.

A column of useful recipes includes one for a French sauce to go with fish; other meal suggestions are for spring onions cooked with cheese, and shrimp rissoles.

The Centenary of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution will be marked in Bideford on 19 June, more details to be published later.

At Lavington Congregational Church in Bideford, a new primary memorial hall is to open.

No. 1 Chudleigh Terrace, Bideford, is for sale by public auction.

A report on New York by Mr Robert Pound who is paying a visit to his mother, Mrs J R Pound, of Marine Gardens, Bideford. He was last in the land of his birth a little over 10 years ago and when asked if he noticed much difference in the old country, he remarked “It is hard to compare New York with smaller towns, I have not seen London. There is a certain quietness, whereas we are rushing, running all the time.” Mr Pound especially made the journey across the Herring Pond to be present at the 81st birthday festivities of his mother.

A well-known and greatly respected Bideford inhabitant passed peacefully away in the person of Mr Caleb Friendship, the founder of the firm of caterers bearing his name, which started many years ago, and which some considerable time back he passed over to his second son, Mr W C Friendship. He died at his house, Pergersec, Abbotsham-road...

In contrast to the work being undertaken on the Revenge, it is reported that Hansen’s Shipbuilding Yard in Bideford has been placed in receivership and has paid off 120 men. Keels of two new vessels had recently been laid down so the announcement has come as a surprise but 80 men will still be employed at the Appledore repair yard where there is work for the next few weeks. At its busiest, Hansen’s employed over five hundred men. Hansen’s Football Club have advised the North Devon League that they will be unable to carry out any of their remaining fixtures this season.

In another sporting story, Bideford Cricket Club has reported a deficit of over £50 for this year, with debts carried over from previous years making an adverse balance of more than £70. The club says that this cannot be allowed to continue and efforts will be made to reduce the debt this year.

At Bradworthy, Mrs J L Martin has been appointed secretary of the Nursing Association in the place of Mr Dunstan, resigned.

After a painful illness, patiently borne, Mr T Everson, of Great Dinworthy, Bradworthy, passed away. As one of the leading agriculturists of the district and a sterling United Methodist, he was beloved and respected by all. Though he curried no man’s favour yet he was beloved and highly esteemed; a friend to all, an enemy to none.

Between 3pm and 8pm on 8 April, postal orders for £10, two ten-shilling notes and a number of Army forms were stolen from the Post Office at Buckland Brewer. Police are investigating.

James Marshall, a rabbit trapper, living at Oke Farm, Buckland Brewer, was charged at the instance of Mr John Hookway, with trespass in pursuit of conies. Defendant pleaded guilty.

Bucks Mills has lost one of the few remaining Braunds of his generation by the death of Mr John Braund at the age of 76, The funeral took place at St Anne’s Church cemetery, the Rev Guy S Whttaker officiating. The immediate mourners…

The marriage of Mr William Somerville, son of Mr and Mrs James Somerville, Slerra Villa, Clovelly, to Miss Isa Auld, has just taken place at Glasgow. The bridegroom served as a sub-lieutenant in the Royal Naval Reserve during the great war, and for the past two years has been second officer in the employ of the Anglo-Saxon Petroleum Co. The happy couple are spending a few days at Clovelly with the bridegroom’s parents.

The peal of five bells at Frithelstock has been augmented to a six with the addition of a new treble.

A wedding of local interest took place at the United Methodist Church, Woodford, being that of Mr Ernest Shute, of Stoke, Hartland, and Miss Annie Collins, eldest daughter of Mr and Mrs W Collins, Woodford. The bride wore a pretty dress of …

A pretty wedding has been solemnised in the Wesleyan Church, between William Gliddon and Ada Shute, of Stoke, Hartland. Many good wishes go with the couple, who are to leave for their new home in Ontario, Canada.

The annual concert arranged by Mrs Bevan and Miss F Colwill in aid of the funds of the Bideford Infirmary and the Hartland Nursing Association took place in the Palladium and was well received by a crowded house. Local talent was assisted by two London visitors, Miss Crockett and Mr Tilly.

Hatherleigh bakers have raised the price of a four-pound loaf from 8d to 8½d. Grocers have raised the price of granulated sugar from 7d to 7½d per pound.

The reaper’s sickle has removed another aged inhabitant in the person of Mr P Dean, of Horn’s Cross. Deceased worked as a mason for the late Mr R Vaggers for a good many years and was well known throughout the district.

A meeting of the Phipps Charity Trustees was held in the Langtree Schoolroom. Present were Messrs Hockwill, Jones, Dayman, Short, Webber, Moore and S Sanders. The accounts for the year were presented and passed, and it was resolved to distribute about £20 on Good Friday in accordance with the revised list as presented by the Secretary.

The Langtree Parish Council, through their chairman, have presented Mr S J Sanders with a silver mounted ebony walking stick, as a memento of his 25 years’ service as their clerk. Mr Jones, chairman, spoke of the ability and energy exercised by Mr Sanders, and he, on behalf of the Council, greatly regretted losing such an able and conscientious official. Mr Sanders suitably replied.

Mrs Huxtable, of Birch Hill Farm, Langtree, has again been the recipient of a cheque from a relative in America, to the amount of £20 in aid of the UM chapel funds. This makes a splendid total of £80 collected by Mrs Huxtable from her relatives abroad.

On Lundy a whist drive and dance was held at the Manor Hotel, with Mr Sleep (chief officer, Lloyds Signal Station) acting as Master of Ceremonies.

The marriage of Brigadier Gen. Gwyn Gwyn-Thomas, CMG, DSO, to Mrs Helen M Saltren-Willett, Royal Artillery, of Petticombe, Monkleigh, was solemnised quietly at St James’ Church, Piccadilly, London. The bride was given away by her brother, Mr A MacDonald Baird. She was dressed in pale grey morocain, draped with a scarf of beautiful old Honiton lace, and that to match trimmed with blue grapes and a flowing lace veil.

The funeral of Mr Arthur Ward, of Northam, son of the late Mr Ward, formerly Surveyor to the Northam Urban Council, took place at Appledore. Rev Hugh Muller was assisted by Rev G Payne Cook, RD. The Vicar mentioned that the late Mr Arthur Ward had fought in the South African war, and as so many had done so, were apt to be forgotten owing to the recent Great War, he made a special point of having the Union Jack at half mast and wore his medals in respect to the glorious dead of an earlier war.

At Northam, PC L Uglow succeeds PC Philpotts, who has been promoted to Sergeant. Users of the Northam to Westward Ho! road will be pleased to note Northam Council’s plan to improve the corner from the Square to Tower Street, one of the most awkward in the whole district.

At Bideford Borough Sessions, Charles Prance, plumber of Northam, who sent an apology for his non-attendance which the Bench decided to accept, was summoned for riding a motor cycle to the danger of the public at the North-road corner of Bridgeland Street.

We regret to learn that news has been received, by cable, of the death of Mrs C H Pickard (nee Pengilly) of Australia. It will be remembered by many people that Mr and Mrs Pickard emigrated 41 years ago.

The results of several Northam property auctions feature this month. The King’s Head Hotel, together with a shop and house (in the occupation of Mrs Thorne) was withdrawn when the price reached £3,800; Alexandra House in Cross Street (occupied by H W Greenwood) was bought by the tenant for £800; two cottages in Tower Street (occupied by Messrs Balsdon and Colwill) were bought by Mr R Henderson for Northam Urban District Council for £265; and six cottages in Honey Street were withdrawn at £540.

A very successful bazaar was organised by the Wesleyan Church and carried through at Parkham…

Parkham parishioners are now being visited by two CMS Pilgrims from East Africa and China. On Friday evening they gave an address in the Council Schoolroom illustrated by lantern slides. A public tea and concert were held at the Rectory and Schoolroom in aid of funds for the Parkham Hospital Bed in East Africa and the colporteur in China. The total amount raised was over £16.

Quite a gloom was cast over the parish on the announcement of the death of Mr John J Parkhouse, of Peppercombe, after a short and severe illness. Deceased was very highly respected by a large circle of friends, and he will be greatly missed throughout the parish, he being a member of the Committee of both the local Football Club and the Garden Show. Deceased leaves a widow and two young children to mourn their loss , and the sympathy of the parish goes to them in their bereavement.

At Shebbear, Mr Walter Batten is recovering from his illness. At the Easter Vestry Mr R Mill was re-elected and Mr J Nethacott re-apointed churchwardens. The Walter and Smallcombe Charity was distributed on Good Friday by Mr W J Leach (Parish Councillor) and Mr A Chapman (Clerk to the Parish Council).

Before the Mayor, Mr T F Upton, in the chair and other magistrates at Bideford Borough Sessions, William Harris, motor driver, of Torrington, pleaded guilty to not having the number plate of his car properly illuminated at 12.30am on the 27th.

A long night whist drive and dance organised by Torrington ex-Service men was held in the Town Hall, the attendance being exceptionally good. A very pleasant evening was spent. The very fine whist prizes were won as follows: Mrs T Curtice, Miss Lowe, Miss Rockey, M Burke, C Heard and J Davey. The cake guessing competition was won by R Rundell. Dancing was kept up until a late hour. Miss F Johns was the excellent pianist.

There was a large attendance of relatives and friends at the wedding at St Michael’s Parish Church, Torrington, of Mr Albert Norman and Miss Katherine Ebsary. The Church, with its beautiful Easter floral decorations, looked very appropriate for the occasion. The bride was given away by her brother…

The Rev Preb F Emlyn Jones officiated at the wedding at St Michael’s Parish Church, of Miss Jane Sweet and Bernard Hodge of Chambercombe-road, Ilfracombe. A reception was afterwards held at the bride’s home when about 40 guests were present. The happy couple, who are widely known, received numerous beautiful gifts. During the evening, the bridal pair left by train for Ilfracombe, where the honeymoon will be spent. They will reside in Bristol.

At Weare Gifford, household furniture and a Citroen motor car from Road Cliffe Cottage, are for sale.

The wedding took place at the Church of the Sacred Heart, Bideford, of Miss Bessie Lewis, second daughter of Mr and Mrs A Lewis, of Lauriston, Westward Ho! and Mr Arthur Loughlin, of Camden, Westward Ho! The ceremony was performed by Rev Father Hawkins, and the bride, who was given away by her father, wore a fawn gabardine costume with hat to match. Sister Madeleine presided at the organ. The honeymoon is being spent in London.

Coastal erosion is causing a serious problem at Westward Ho! Forty years ago, an eating house near the Pebble Ridge was a great convenience to visitors. Now the site of the house is under the ridge. Mr Edwin Vidal of Barnstaple who has for many years taken a keen interest in the Westward Ho! coast erosion question, writes:

A flannel dance at Westward Ho!

The anniversary of the United Methodist Church was celebrated on Good Friday at Woolsery.

April 1974

After a break of two years when the Seamen’s Mission at Appledore was closed, the traditional fishermen’s service was revived at the re-opened Mission. The service, which marks the opening of the salmon netting season each year, was conducted by Mr Frank Holmes. The Vicar of Appledore, Rev Donald Peyton Jones, read a lesson and offered a prayer for the fishermen. Solos were contributed by Mrs T Campbell and Mr Ivor Harris.

Children of Appledore presented their own preview of Easter when a bonnet competition was among the attractions at an Easter Parade, the first event organised by the newly-formed Appledore County Primary School Parent-Teacher Association. Mrs J Payne, wife of former headmaster…

After being covered by seven tides over Easter, a Land Rover which became stuck in The Gut near Greysands, West Appledore, was finally recovered by the Army. The Land Rover belongs to Mr Robert Chattey, of 31 The Mount, Appledore, who was driving it when it became stuck.

The Rev Fred Smith, husband of the Rev Gladys Smith who, for 10 years until 1969 was minister of Lavington Congregational Church, Bideford, died at the age of 83. Mr Smith who had retired from the active ministry before moving to Bideford, taught at the Grammar School and was chairman of the local branch of the Devonshire Association.

Several thousand people basked in the Easter Monday sunshine to watch banger racing. From the hillside slopes the huge crowd watched 120 drivers, 20 of them women, compete in races on the former rubbish tip on the outskirts of Bideford. The racing was originally planned by the Buccaneers to raise money for the Torridge Geriatric Hospital but it was decided because of the help given by the Banger Drivers’ Club that half the proceeds should go to a charity of their choice.

Pelican pedestrian crossings are to replace the two existing zebra crossings on Bideford Quay, but no date for the changeover is yet available. Their introduction will help east traffic hold-ups at present accentuated when pedestrian cross singly.

Bideford Rifle Club, winners of the Journal Herald Cup, were beaten into second place at this year’s team shoot by the Braunton club. The picture shows Messrs Rudi Gnoyke, John Slee, John Stacey and Cyril Taylor.

Getting their hands in in readiness for Scout job week are Andrew White and Christopher Green, Cub Scouts of the 2nd Bideford group. Willing ‘guinea pigs’ are Cub Scouts Jonathan Morris and Colin Paddon. They are the cubs and scouts from Bideford, Northam and Parkham will be knocking on doors anxious to do small jobs to raise money for funds.

These feet are made for scoring – and that’s just what they’ve done – nearly 100 times between them so far this season. Played 47, won 41, drawn 2, lost 4, for 218, against 48 – that is the remarkable record of the young football players of Bideford School. Their talents have this season brought them the North Devon schools’ under-13 and under-15 championships and the runners-up place in the Pepsi league for under-16s.

These are the faces that go with the feet – Garry Henry, Leonard Ford, Michael Tithecott, Mark Stevens, Andrew Oke, Andrew Little and Barry Robinson. Missing from the picture are Brian Cox and Jeffery Brown

Only a handful of people in Bideford, perhaps, know that Bobby Locke twice beat Peter Thomson into second place in the British Open golf championship. But among them are members of Bideford, Littleham and Westward Ho! CC’s quiz team – and the knowledge was enough to take them into the last eight of the Sunday People national sports quiz. But it was a last gasp win against Britannia, Cheltenham, whose identification of Lester Piggot’s first winner put them ahead with only one question left, and tension was nigh unbearable as the golf question was posed. But Keith Moses, David Cox and Jimmy Jewell combined to come up with the answer to give Bideford an exciting victory.

Because they cannot complete work on the laying of a sewer from Bucks Mills down to the beach until mid-May, Bideford Rural Council have decided not to go ahead with the work now, but to include it in phase II of the sewerage scheme.

In North Devon there is a company – West Country Waste Paper, of The Mill, Fremington, which is offering a prize of £100 to the charity whose helpers produce for that depot the highest tonnage of suitable waste paper, between now and March 31, 1975. The current price if £10 per tonne.

Hartland pair, B Meaker and D Webber, achieved the only local success, being placed third in open duet. Other winners were from St Austell, Newton Abbot, Bude, Northlew and Ashbury and Totnes. The adjudicator, Mr David Thomas, solo cornet with Stanshaw Band, Bristol, was guest artist at a successful concert given by Hartland Town Band in the evening.

In a last ditch effort to get a parking space reserved for Hartland’s doctor outside his house in the Square, Bideford Rural Council decided at their final meeting to write to the county medical officer of health and to Torridge District Council.

Designs to extend the Commodore Hotel at Instow are ‘out of character’ for a conservation area, say Barnstaple Rural Council. They are opposing the plan, which proposes additional bedrooms and a larger lounge and bar.

A party of seven from Mondeville, Calvados, with which French town Northam Urban Council decided to ‘twin’ only on February 27, will arrive in the parish tomorrow week. They will be met by the town mayor, Mr John Smith, who is delighted at the swift response. The party, who are being accommodated at the Durrant House as guests of the parish, will be here for four days. They will be taken on a tour of Appledore Shipyard as well as visiting local beauty spots. Next month a party from Northam district will make a reciprocal visit to its twin-town of Mondeville, an industrial suburb of Caen, in Normandy.

A total of 50,000 trading stamps have been presented to the North Devon Cheshire Home. They were won in a national competition by Mrs Cynthia Snowdon, daughter of Mr and Mrs Percy Reed, of Windmill Lane, Northam.

Many more weddings will take place in future in Northam – thanks to local government reorganisation.

Robert Sampson, of the newly formed 1st Torridge pack at Northam, proudly shows his Golden Arrow badge to his friends. He was the first at Northam to win this award.

‘Acres of ground for the kids to run around’ at Penhaven House, Parkham.

The possibilities of business links being forged between a North Devon farm and the Argentine were explored when Senor Otero, a South American journalist, visited Mr and Mrs Bert Guard at Hill Farm, St Giles. Their reputation in the sheep-showing world, gained with their Dorset Downs, prompted the visit which was arranged by the Central Office of Information.

Does the bell toll for parrot belonging to Mr Crystal Copp, of Calf Street, Torrington?

The annual Swedish-English service, organised through Dartington Glass Ltd, will be held at Torrington Parish Church. Conducting the service will be the Rev Mr Evander, of the Swedish Church in London. Also taking part will be the well-known soloist, Miss Hillevi Johansson, accompanied by Mr Kai Lindberg on the organ.

Torrington’s pannier market, the use of which has declined in the post-war years, is to be given a new lease of life by a property development company. Torridge District Council has recommended approval of an outline planning application for redevelopment of the area, the approval being conditional on satisfactory parking arrangements and listed building consent being obtained from the Department of the Environment. The applicants are Beadle Property Holdings Ltd, of Hertford. The picture shows the pannier market building looking from the Barley Grove end towards the entrance from the Square. It used to be completely roofed with glass but this began to deteriorate and was removed for safety about the time of the Second World War.

From designs entered by apprentices at RAF Cosford, that of an Old Boy of Bideford Grammar School, Stephen Gilbert, was chosen for the course passing-out shield. His parents and grandparents – Mr and Mrs J Gilbert of Town Park, and Mr and Mrs J Gilbert of Calf Street – live in Torrington. During his off-duty hours Stephen played in the Apprentice Wing Band of RAF Cosford which has frequently taken part in civilian and Service functions. He also took part with the band in the RAF pipe and drums championships and at the Royal Tournament.

Years ago the sight of a passenger train thundering along the Westleigh straight section between Instow and Bideford was such a common that it hardly rated a second glance – that is unless it was providing the opportunity for a brief racing moment with motorists on the road alongside. Mr Beeching’s axe stopped all that. Last weekend the line between Barnstaple and Torrington again experienced passenger travel as a train specially chartered by the Bristol Railway Correspondents and Travel Society made a nostalgic journey alongside Taw and Torridge.

District Officer Ken Lewis, of the Coastguard Service, Hartland, presents a long-service medal to Mr W N Newcombe, a member of the Westward Ho! coastguard rescue company since 1952. Although the look-out at Westward Ho! is no longer manned in bad weather, the company is kept busy during the summer with cliff rescues and helping any who get into difficulties in the sea. Other members of the company in the picture are Messrs G Wingfield, I Smith, N Laws, M Blackmore and D Price.

In an effort to keep the sea at bay, Torridge District Council is spending £75,000 on strengthening the Pebble Ridge at Westward Ho! And if nature fails within the next few weeks to make amends for the ravages of January’s storms then the council will be asked to consider spending another £40,000 to replenish the sand on the beach.

When Northam council agreed to ask the district council quickly to consider implementing planning permission for recreational development on Westbourne Terrace, Westward Ho! Mrs E M Hilder described the situation as ‘a shambles.’

What is believed to be a record score from what was certainly a record entry of 208 pairs gave Royal North Devon golfers James Laidler and Norman Tithecott victory in the Bideford Bay foursomes. The event is played annually over the courses of the RND at Westward Ho! and Saunton clubs and the winning pair put together rounds of 36 and 35 points to win easily. It was a repeat triumph for Laidler, who won the event last year in partnership with David Harman.

The death has occurred of Mr James Andrew, of Three Gables, Woolsery. He formerly farmed at North Hole, Little Torrington, and had been well known for the various public offices he had held, including chairman of the Woolsery Village Hall committee and was also a special constable for many years. The bearers were Messrs G Lott, P Andrew, K Harding and T Braund.

April 1999

Transport Minister Glenda Jackson visited Torridgeside on a joint mission to name the latest ship built at Appledore Shipbuilders and to meet Labour Party candidates in the local elections. At Appledore she named the Toisa Crest, a multi-role offshore vessel, which is due for delivery next month. It follows in the wake of the Toisa Coral which is now operating for Cable and Wireless.

A buy-out by Appledore Shipbuilders has saved a famous West Country shipyard from possible closure. The Appledore yard is to take over Mashford Brothers’ Cremyll Shipyard on the River Tamar, near Torpoint. Appledore’s engineer director Ian Mason, who has been helping to oversee the take-over, said that in addition to its shipbuilding the Appledore yard also operated two repair slipways. The two yards would complement each other.

Appledore’s community will be throwing its full weight a host of events to raise funds for children’s charity CLIC over the Bank Holiday. All its pubs, the British Legion, the church, the school and local businesses are involved in the fun. An auction, a mixed tug of war and discos are on the programme. So is a euchre drive, a mega meat raffle and a barbecue.

Appledore author Jeremy Bell has drawn on wide travellings and experiences and the thoughts and emotions have stirred in a new book of poems Stranger on a Strange Planet. Mr Bell has hitchhiked through Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. He emigrated to Australia as a ‘£10 tourist’ to work in mining towns, on fishing boats, drilling rigs and in an institution for young offenders. Now he makes a living through gardening and small building jobs and continues to campaign on local environmental issues.

Properties at Marine Parade, Appledore, for sale.

Art teacher Barry Hosken is turning over a new canvas after a career at a Bideford school spanning 35 years. Pupils and staff at Bideford College said farewell at Easter to the longest serving member of the school staff, who has taught two generations of youngsters. He started his career in 1964 as an art master at the former Bideford Grammar School, and stayed there through its amalgamation with the former Bideford Secondary School. He was head of art at the school for 10 years and for the past 15 years has been a Year Head. In earlier years Mr Hosken held exhibitions but more recently his own painting has had to take a back seat.

Each of Chrys Aitken’s 40 soft toys hold a special memory for her. But she is happily giving them all away in the hope they can bring some comfort to the hapless children of Kosovo. Chrys, who lives on the Londonderry Estate in Bideford, is a former teacher, and is one of many who have responded to the newly launched Kids for Kosovo Appeal.

With the death of artist Miss Sheila Hutchinson, Bideford has lost a woman with a great commitment to her art and to the town she loved. Miss Hutchinson had a particularly long association with the Burton Art Galley and Museum, dating back to her friendship with the Burton family when the gallery was given to the town in 1951. Chairman and later president of the Westward Ho! and Bideford Art Society, she was a regular exhibitor. Born at Weare Giffard she attended the former Westbank School and later studied at Bideford School of Art. During the 1940s she worked on watercolours and will perhaps best be remembered for a series of 74 paintings of the River Torridge, source to sea, which took her 10 years to complete. Over the years Miss Hutchinson passed on her skills in calligraphy to many local people. A woman with varied interests she was a member of Bideford’s first women’s rowing team.

In Bideford, an independent son of a rock legend is making his own mark in the music industry. Oliver Wakeman, son of Rick Wakeman, works in a local building society and makes music at night and on his weekends off. He will be known to customers in local pubs as part of Smokestack. All help to finance the home studio he has pieced together and from where the keyboard skills inherited from his father have been combined with his song writing ability in two already successful CDs. Heaven’s Isle was inspired by the island of Lundy. Having come to the area with his mother and brother, Adam, he studied at the North Devon College and took a job locally.

Bideford Pannier Market gave local people a tasty treat with the launch of its monthly farmers’ markets. It was both a taste of the local fare of which the region is justly proud and a taste of the past, for it was a farmers’ market that the venue was established 115 years ago. Twenty-five stallholders turned up for the first of the new markets which are to be held on the first Wednesday of each month. There were some unusual and sizzling bacon to sample and, although not for sale, some traditional pork brawn, homemade specially by the market’s longest stallholder Mary Hedden of Weare Giffard. The third generation of her family to attend the market Mary has been a regular there for more than 60 years. It was a steady rather than a stampede start but one which was greeted with optimism by market manager Paul Naisbett.

Bideford will soon have a cinema again. Closed for a year, the Bideford College Cinema reopens on May 1 following an £80,000 refit which includes sophisticated new projection equipment. With the town’s commercial cinemas having long closed, Bideford College struggled for 10 years to provide a service. Although well supported with more than 70,000 people attending, it suffered technical problems and closed. Now a series of financial grants has enabled the cinema to upgrade. The improvements would provide a quality of audience entertainment never experienced there before, said theatre manager Neil Bennion.

Neil Bennion and Simon Jeffery

The go-ahead for Bideford’s long-awaited East-the-Water industrial relief road has been warmly welcomed. The £4m project is designed to alleviate traffic problems and open up more industrial land. The final go-ahead came only last week with the announcement of £1.1m backing from the new South West Regional Development Agency.

Helpers are needed to strip down a grand old lady on the banks of the River Torridge – and provide her with a steam bath! Work has started in earnest on the £250,000 restoration project of the 100 year old schooner the Kathleen and May. Shipwrights have started stripping off her old planking in readiness for replacement with new timbers. The town’s chamber of commerce, which is behind the project, is also looking for more unusual help in the form of a steam generator or old traction engine. This is needed to provide the steam for a 40ft steam box in which the new planking will be shaped.

Pictured are Andrew Harrison and Steven Barker

Four young schoolfriends from Bideford have cleaned up for charity by washing car windscreens at a local garage. Fellow pupils at St Mary’s Primary School, Katherine Harvey, Rachel Bright, Fern Dymond and Angela Keen, spent two hours at Bideford’s Esso Petrol station and raised more than £65 for Comic Relief. They were supported and kept supplied with buckets of warm water by garage manager Kevin Cole. “It really was fund and everyone was so kind” said the girls.

A charming character cottage, formerly a barn, is for sale at Buckland Brewer.

Tuition in one of the oldest open air sports in the country will be on offer to visitors to a North Devon tourist attraction this summer. The sport is falconry and two top display falconers – Jonathan Marshall and David Rampling – have joined forces at The Milky Way Adventure Park, near Clovelly. Jonathan and his fliers have been favourites at the birds of prey there for more than seven years.

Villagers of Fremington will be holding a tea party on their new village green to celebrate the traditional May Day holiday. On the afternoon of May 1 everyone living in Fremington, Bickington, Yelland and Roundswell is invited to the party. Local clubs and societies will have stalls, there will be displays by children’s groups and a tea stall will raise money for the Children’s Hospice. “This will be an opportunity for us all to get together and celebrate this holiday. It will also offer local good causes a chance to raise funds and recruit new supporters” said parish council chairman Mrs Ro Day.

Fremington Quay on the widening estuary of the River Taw is set to become a unique amenity for the people of North Devon. The £500,000 project is expected to begin within months and will rescue an area which for long has lain derelict with the historic quay crumbling away. Cargo boats and freight trains once used it, and it is planned to add an attractive railway flavour to the scheme. ‘One of the most exciting features will be an observation tower looking like a signal box,’ said project chairman Rodney Cann. ‘We’ve had so much enthusiasm from local residents. And the district council, which is purchasing the Quay on the project’s behalf, has given first-class support.’

As battles raged around the town Great Torrington chalked up a great victory with is Civil War reenactments and official opening of the town’s new heritage centre. The Torrington 1646 Civil War Experience at Castle Hill is a £400,000 visitor attraction which enters fully into the 17th century. It was opened by Dr Tom Bell and Mark Hopton – direct descendants of the two Generals who led the opposing armies in the 1646 Battle of Torrington.

Torrington residents are being asked for their views on a plan for a new riverside pathway to link the Tarka Trail with Town Mills. The Torrington Commons Conservators have been in discussion with Devon County Council for some time about linking the two via a cycleway. As a first stage a tunnel providing access from the Tarka Trail to the Rolle Road was opened two years ago.

Playing a special role with the task group taking part in Operation Allied Force in the Adriatic is Leading Aircraft Controller Phillip Bwye from Torrington, who is the son of Ken and Hillary. On HMS Somerset he is on call round-the-clock. Said Phillip “It is a real challenge to be at the centre of a high profile situation as this. This is the first time I’ve been closed up in a war situation.” Phillip is looking forward to getting home and seeing his family, especially his sister who is expecting a baby.

Westward Ho! restauranteur David Cousins is turning up the heat in his training programme for the London Marathon. Pounding the treadmill and running miles each week David is determined that his marathon attempt will be a success for the Children’s Hospice South West. It was the Chariots of Fire music which stirred him while watching last year’s marathon on television.

A mini digger valued at £14,000 has been stolen from Westward Ho! The digger was delivered to the car park at Kingsley Club off Golfs Links Road but then disappeared. Later in the month it was reported that equipment worth nearly £1,500 has been stolen from a partly renovated commercial premises at Golf Links Road, Westward Ho! The items taken were a De Walt battery drill charger and box, a B&Q tool box and hand tools, a Stihl disc cutter, a Bosch Kangol hammer drill, an EW battery charger and an electric transformer.

Weekly return trips to Clifton are the order of the day for Greg Davey, who has just signed schoolboy forms for Bristol City. Greg from Woolsery was spotted by the First Division Club while playing against them for Bideford Blues Centre of Excellence. Parents, Paul and Sharon, are hoping for sponsorship to help further their son’s football career.

Years Ago - March

March 1924

Torrington-Halwill Railway – when will it be opened?

At the meeting of Torrington Rural Council, the Clerk reported a letter from the Devon and Cornwall Junction (Torrington-Halwill Railway) pressing for £1,200 at once and threatening if they did not get it – it was overdue – they have to ‘do something’ about it. It was stated to be the last instalment and should have been paid in January, and it was decided to pay it now, although Mr Elliott did not see why they should be threatened.

An accident occurred to two men employed on the Halwill-Torrington railway. A cyclist returning from work in the evening lost control of his machine on the hills between Highampton and Sheepwash and knocked down a workman who was walking. The latter suffered from shock, and the cyclist sustained concussion and cuts. Both received medial treatment from Dr Candler.

A grandiose million pound scheme?

Devon’s £1,000,000 Road Scheme.

The Gazette publishes a letter from Mr H C Whitehead, honorary secretary of the RNLI, appealing for people to mark the Centenary of the organisation this month by becoming annual subscribers, the suggested amount being five shillings.

Almost all the elementary schools in the district were closed in the first week of March due to influenza. The Gazette this month reports on many funerals, influenza taking its toll on people of all ages.

The wedding was solemised at Abbotsham church of Mr William Vaggers, son of Mr Walter Vaggers, of Nethercleave, Littleham, and Miss Elsie Andrew, daughter of Mr John Andrew, the Barton, Abbotsham. The Rev Canon Kempe officiated. The bride was becomingly attired …

At the funeral of the late Mr George Worth, Canon Kempe officiated, assisted by the Rev E Mallett. There was a large attendance. The immediate mourners were Mr H Worth….

Alverdiscott - In aid of the organ repair fund a successful whist drive and dance, organised by Messrs W Newcombe and T Phear, and the Misses Newcombe, was held in the schoolroom. The prizes were given by Mrs Boyd, Mrs Oak-Rhind, Mrs Blew-Jones and Mr Southcombe, and were won by Mr T Phear, Mr Brace, Miss D Handford, Miss Phear, A E Copp, The Rector, and A W Fedrick.

A very pretty wedding was solemnised at Alwington Wesleyan Church between Miss Alice Trewin, only daughter of Mr and Mrs T Trewin of High Park, and Mr Wiliam Goaman, only son of Mr Richard Goaman, of Waytown, Parkham. The church was prettily decorated…

A reception was held at High Park and later in the day, the happy couple left for Dawlish.

There was considerable stir at Appledore and, in fact all along the hillsides to Bonehill when the old wooden line-of-battle ship, HM Empress, formerly HM Revenge, arrived safely in the custody of two tugs, after coming through an adventurous voyage, in the charge of Captain Richard Hooper, master mariner. On Sunday morning the friendly shelter of Hartland Point was reached, where boat and tugs awaited the afternoon’s tide for taking the Bar….

The public will be given free access to this famous craft, at a fee of 6d (children 3d) for the benefit of Bideford Hospital, but no responsibility is taken for accidents.

Stanley Bennett who bought 5 One-end Street, Appledore, is unable to get in and would like George Cawsey, the tenant, to vacate it.

The remains of Mr William Penhorwood Shutt, shipwright, of Richmond-terrace, Appledore, were laid to rest. Aged 75 he was one of the fast diminishing number of shipwrights, who belonged to the earlier type, who were solely brought up to work in wood alone, and whose skill in the present day can be seen in the floating bulwarks of our earlier Navy, now fast being broken up. He served his time at Mr Clibbett’s yard and at the early age of 21 entered HM Dockyard at Sheerness, transferring to Chatham, where he followed his trade till 1887, when he returned to Appledore and worked for some time under Mr Westacott…

Funerals at Appledore – Mr William Bowden, aged 78. In his earlier career Mr Bowden had been a deep-water sailor, and had sailed out of London in the Hudson Bay Company ship, trading to Vancouver, and had also been in the late Mr William Yeo’s employ, bringing the ships home from Charlottetown in Prince Edward Island, to Appledore, where they were completed. He was wrecked in the schooner Excell which grounded on the Goodwin Sands. Mrs Sarah Ann Jewell, aged 74, was laid to rest in St Mary’s Churchyard, the Vicar, Rev Hugh C A S Muller, officiating. The Vicar mentioned that Mrs Jewell was the last of the Hancocks, a fine race of seamen, who had owned property in Appledore for three generations, and her father and brother, like many others, had met their deaths at sea, but their name would be permanently handed down in the site known as Hancock’s Slip. The late Mr Braunton – Mr James Braunton suddenly collapsed after a week’s illness of influenza. He had for over forty years been the head man on Mr John Cock’s farm and a was a most invaluable farm servant. He will be laid to rest at Northam, where his wife is buried. Mr William Payne, retired mariner, was laid to rest. The Vicar, Rev Hugh C A S Muller, who officiated, in a few words referred to the early travels of the late Mr Payne, pointing out how he had sailed out of Weymouth for many years, and also how he patiently borne his distressing illness, never complaining but always enduring with a brave spirit.

Infant children were laid to rest at Appledore.

In a follow up to one of last month’s stories, Bideford Town Council have held discussions about the safety of drivers and pedestrians during the road works on the bridge. It is reported that insurers for the lorry which crashed into the river are holding the Council responsible for the damage. So far there has been no update on the condition of the driver, Mr Cloke

The death took place at his residence, Glencoe, Bideford, after a brief illness, of Mr Fred Panter, and much sympathy is felt with the family in their sad and unexpected bereavement. Mr Panter, who in his calling as a produce dealer was a well-known figure in Bideford market, had been a hard-working member of Bideford Wesleyan Church, and acted as sidesman for over 20 years. The funeral took place with Rev a W Bunnett, MA, officiating. Sincere sympathy is expressed with the bereaved family and relatives in the great loss they have sustained by the death of Mrs Ethel Greenslade, wife of Mr F W Greenslade, of 53 Lime Grove, Bideford. Mrs Greenslade, who was much beloved and held in high esteem by a large circle of friends, passed away at the early age of 36, after a very brief illness. She leaves one child.

A Bideford schoolboy, John Lee, of 4 Railway Cottages, Torrington Street, East-the-Water, was knocked down by a motor car and was taken to Bideford Hospital having sustained a fractured left arm, cuts to the forehead and knees and bruises on his legs. He is now progressing as well as can be expected, although he will probably have to remain in hospital for some short while yet.

Bideford ketch, Francis Beddoe, who belongs to Mr A Galsworthy of Appledore, is lost on Pendine Sands, Carmarthen Bay, Wales.

Household furniture from The Orchard, Orchard Hill, Bideford, for sale by auction.

William Glover, of Lyndale House, Bideford, was fined 3s for riding a bicycle without a light after regular time.

Furnishings from Meadowview, Clovelly Road, Bideford, for sale.

A very pretty wedding was solemnised at the Bideford United Methodist Church, when Miss Daisy Fulford, only daughter of Alderman J U Fulford and Mrs Fulford, of Salterns, entered into the bonds of holy matrimony with Mr William John Bellew. The bridegroom is the third son of Mr T Bellew (a member of Bideford Rural Council and Board of Guardians) and Mrs Bellew, of Puse-hill Farm, Abbotsham.

After the service a move was made to Salterns, where a real old-fashioned wedding breakfast was held in the barn which was decorated with hangings and draperies, and illuminated by groups of twinkling fairy lights. The newlywed couple motored to Bournemouth and London where their honeymoon is being spent. On returning Mr and Mrs John Bellew will reside at Gammaton Farm.

Buy your Swallow raincoat from Metherell's in Bideford.

At Bradworthy, the epidemic of influenza has not yet abated. However, in spite of the epidemic local rivalries continue – skittles and draughts competitions at Bradworthy were fiercely contested. The home team lost the draughts event to Welcome 31-18. However, Bradworthy took the Torridge & District Skittle Council shield, with Buckland Brewer a close second.

A very successful bachelors’ tea and social was held in the Temperance Hall, Bradworthy, organised by the young men associated with the United Methodist Church. Afterwards an enjoyable evening was spent. A goodly sum was realised and given to the Women’s Working League.

Many in Bradworthy were grieved at the receipt of the news of the decease, almost suddenly, of Mrs Samuel John Ashton, formerly of Lake, but recently resident at Bideford. Whilst at Bradworthy she endeared herself to all by her Christian kindness and hospitality. Mrs Gilbert of the Square, who had been a great sufferer, passed away after a long illness, borne with patience and without complaining.

Fancy dress at Bucks Mills. The dancers began arriving at 7.30 and it soon became evident that the display of costumes would be very varied and effective. Dancing began soon after 8 o’clock and later on those in fancy dress paraded in three classes – ladies, gentlemen and children. The prizes were awarded as follows: ‘The Balloon Girl’ Miss Gertrude French; ‘The Clown’ Mr Fred Johns, and ‘Charlie Chaplin’ Mr Stanley Martin. ‘Rainbow’ Margaret Heywood, and ‘Sailorman’ Grenville Braund.

In consequence of the increasing traffic, a Royal Automobile Association patrol man is to be stationed at Clovelly Cross during the summer months.

The funeral of Mrs Annie Burnard, who passed away at the age of 82 years, took place at All Saints’ Church, Clovelly, amid many manifestations of sympathy and respect. The Rev T L V Simkin officiated and there was a large congregation…

Quite recently the United Methodist Church, Frithelstock, was presented with a beautiful copy of the Scriptures inscribed ‘For the United Methodist Church, Frithelstock, December, 1923’. It was forwarded by carrier to the Steward, Mr William Ashton, of Myrtle Cottage, with no indication of the sender. Evidently the donor is a lover of the Church.

Mr Ernest Hill officiated at the marriage in the United Methodist Church, of Mr Ernest Prouse to Miss Dorothy J Pomeroy of Netherton. Owing to the illness of her father, the bride was given away by her young brother, Mr Ernest Pomeroy. Miss Louise Prouse was her attendant, and Mr T Prouse acted as ‘best man’. Mr Frank Christmas played the wedding music. A reception was held at Netherton. The presents were very numerous.

Influenza is epidemic in Hartland. The churches and chapels were very badly attended in consequence.

The French Government has arranged to exhume and repatriate all their sailors and soldiers who lie in foreign lands. In accordance with this decision the body of Henri Auguste Guyon (a sailor) was removed from Hartland churchyard on February 28th.

The funeral has taken place at Stoke, Hartland, of John Orchard. Mr Orchard, who was 62, was a member of a well-known and respected local Gypsy family. Following his death from influenza, thirty six local men carried his coffin the four miles from the moor to the churchyard for burial. At Hartland, the funeral of little Ivy Johns took place with Pastor Hill officiating. The vicar officiated and gave a short address and Miss Pillman presided at the organ. Pastor Hill officiated at Mrs Cloke’s funeral.

Hartland road improvement scheme.

At Instow, Mr Nancekivell’s tender is accepted for repairing seats on Sand Step Hill, and Mr H Miles will resign.

Many old friends will learn with regret of the death of Miss Maginnis, who died in Ireland at an advanced age. She was at the Saunton Hotel for many years, and was latterly stewardess at the Sailing Club at Instow. The flag at the Club was flown at half mast shen the regretted news of Miss Maginnis’s death was received.

At the Marine Hotel, Instow, a six-a-side table tennis match was played between teams representing Barnstaple and Bideford, with Bideford winning. Afterwards Mr Ed King, the host, entertained the company to an excellent supper, which was followed by a musical programme.

The funeral of the late Mr Thomas Parkin who died at Cardiff, at the age of 59, took place. The deceased was a carpenter and joiner and was a native of Instow. He leaves a widow, five sons and five daughters.

Langtree village was en fete on the occasion of the wedding of Mr Arthur Horn and Miss Emma Moore, daughter of the late Mr John and Mrs Moore, of East Browns. Both the bride and bridegroom are great favourites with all their acquaintances, being well known in music circles. The ceremony took place at the UM Chapel, Langtree with the Rev H E Reed officiating, assisted by Rev P Luxton. The bride looked charming….

At a special meeting of Langtree Parish Council, Mr Hack proposed, Mr Short seconded, that the Council accept with regret the resignation of Mr S J Sanders as Clerk to the Council and Assistant Overseer, an office he had filled for 25 years. the Chairman expressed sorrow at losing such an efficient officer.

Mr Huxtable, of Birch-hill Farm has had the misfortune to lose a valuable cow. Mrs R Huxtable of Langtree is the recipient of donations on behalf of the trustees of the UM Chapel. Earlier in the month it was reported that the Chapel received a handsome sum from Mr Hobbs, of America.

Langtree’s only inn, the Green Dragon, was completely destroyed by fire. The inn was one of the houses controlled by Messrs S W Arnold and Sons, brewers, of Taunton, which firm leases the property from the Rolle Estate, and it was tenanted by Mr Richard Vanstone, who also follows the occupation of carpenter, and his wife. The outbreak was discovered by Mr Crocker of Little Torrington at 2.30pm. He gave the alarm to Mr Vanstone and together with the help of a willing muster of neighbours preliminary precautions were taken and help of the fire brigade summoned. Police-Sergeant Snell and PC Hawkins hurried to the village and assisted in preventing the spread of the fire. Torrington Brigade were rallied under Mr Leat, and they reached the scene of the fire with their hand-pump and hose, drawn by three horses, by 3.15pm. The Bideford Brigade had been summoned at the same time through the Torrington Post Office, and arrived with their steam engine coving a distance of 9 miles (five miles farther than from Torrington to Langtree) shortly afterwards.

The children attending Littleham Council School were examined in religious knowledge by the Inspector, Mr H H Hawkins, and the following report has just been received…

We regret to announce the death of Mrs Bowdidge, Moor Cottages, Littleham, who passed away peacefully at the age of 71. She was the widow of the late Mr W H Bowdidge and the youngest daughter of the late Mr James Crealock. The deceased had resided at Littleham all her life with the exception of a few years spent in Birmingham. She was of a most genial and affectionate disposition and although not being blessed with a robust constitution, yet all affliction was borne with much Christian fortitude.

Lundy - A very successful dance was held at the Assembly Rooms, the occasion being the celebration of the twenty-first birthday of Mrs C Ottley; also to commemorate St Patrick’s Day in honour, as a compliment to Mr and Mrs Barter. Previous to the dancing, Mr Sleep, chief officer of Lloyds Signal Station, made a brief speech, thanking Miss Sage, the popular hostess of the Manor Hotel for her kindness in granting the use of the hall, and expressed the hope that the social life of the Island would continue to improve. Mr Barter, chief signalman of Lloyds, who carried out the duties of MC in a pleasing manner, also spoke.

The Rev J A S Castlehow, assistant priest at Northam, met with a serious accident whilst cycling on Exmoor. His machine skidded in the snow, and the rider was thrown violently over a small bridge and dropped into the brook eight feet below. He was conveyed to Challocombe Rectory and afterwards removed to his home. All will wish him a speedy recovery, but it will be some little time before he will be able to resume his duties.

Properties in Northam for sale by auction – The Kings Head; Alexandra House; two cottages in Tower Street in the occupation of Messrs Balsdon and Colwill; 6 cottages in Honey Street in the occupation of Messrs Glover, Mrs Glover, Messrs Keen, Pound and Miss Curtis.

There was a nasty accident in Barnstaple Square when a motor car driven by Major-General Sir R Stewart, of Bidna, Northam, was in collision with a bicycle ridden by Mr William J Body, a mason, of Swimbridge.

Northam Men’s Bible Class gave a very effective rendering of the musical service ‘Khama’ in the Congregational Church. Over forty members took part, and the male chorus thus provided was heard to advantage in the choral marches – the soloists were Messrs G Kelly, W Pound, B Hancock, J Beara, E and W Littlejohns, G Colwill and W Pickard. Mr Henry Littlejohns being the organist.

The funeral took place at Northam Churchyard of the late Mr Christopher Joseph Kilduff, who died at Hyde Barton, Northam, from pneumonia following influenza. The deceased was the faithful friend and servant of Mrs Nixon for 24 years. There were a number present to pay the last tribute of respect. The funeral of the late Mrs Emma Hearn, the wife of Mr John Hearn, of Higher Castle Street, Northam, took place, there being a large attendance to pay the last tribute of respect.

At Parkham, Miss Jewell, a domestic servant at Flaxmans, fell in the farmyard and broke the bone of her elbow. Despite her injuries she pluckily milked three cows with one hand after the accident.

The death has taken place at Broom Hill Cottage, Parkham, of Mr W Dean. Deceased was gardener at the Rectory for a good many years, and although having rheumatism, he trudged from his cottage to the Rectory for gardening purposes. He was also a ringer until compelled to give it up. He leaves a widow and grown-up family to mourn their loss. By his death another record of longevity is broken for this parish. Mr and Mrs Dean having been married for nearly 60 years.

Quite a gloom was cast over the Shebbear parish when it became known that Mrs Bessie Bright, wife of Mr Charles Bright, of Moortown, had passed away at the age of 48. She was of a bright and cheerful disposition, brave and patient in suffering, a devoted wife, loving mother, kind neighbour, and true friend. Much sympathy is felt for Mr Bright, and the three children in their sad bereavement.

The wedding of Miss Beatrice Mary Leach, youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs W J Leach of South View House, Shebbear, to Mr Reginald Arnold, Petersmarland, was solemnised at the United Methodist Church at Lake by the Rev H E Reed, Circuit Minister.

After a few weeks’ illness, Ex-Sergt John Bennett, a native of Torrington, passed away. Deceased served 12 years with the 1st Devons in India and retired on a pension. He rejoined the same regiment and served five years in France during the late war. He had since been appointed foreman under the Devon County Council at the Barnstaple Depot of Quarry men. Five of his comrades from Barnstaple attended the funeral….

Owing to the influenza epidemic half the inmates of Torrington Poor-Law Institution have been laid up, and Church services were suspended for two Sundays.

At the Torrington Borough Police Court Mary Mules again failed to put in an appearance to answer to a summons adjourned from the previous court for allowing the chimney of her house to be on fire. She was brought to the court by the police in a crying state and fined 3s 6d. James Pettyjohns for a similar offence was also fined 3s 6d.

At Torrington Town Council meeting, in regard to the Council’s decision at the last meeting to whiten the dial of the Fountain Clock, which now had a black face, the Town Clerk, Mr F A Hodgkinson, reported having communicated with two local clockmakers, but neither was anxious to undertake it. Mr H Vincent, who raised the question at the previous meeting, said with a black face the clock was hopeless, and he moved they get a quotation. Seconded by Mr C Popham.

Looking forward to the spring, Torrington Chamber of Commerce have decided to revive the old May Fair Day. Among the suggested attractions are a clay pigeon shoot, skittles match, old English dancing and a bowling tournament in fancy dress. The Fair grounds will have side-shows and amusements, and all shopkeepers have been asked to make attractive displays. The day will end with a grand carnival.

A very pretty wedding was solemnised at the St Michael’s Parish Church, Torrington, the Rev Preb F Emlyn Jones officiating. The contracting parties were Cyril Stanley Vodden, of Well Street, Torrington, and Miss Florence Curtis, youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs Thomas Curtis, New Street, Torrington. Bridesmaids were Miss Edith Curtis and Miss Edith Parkhouse. Mr Fred Vodden discharged the duties of groomsman. Both being so widely known and highly respected, they were the recipients of upwards to 100 useful and costly presents. The happy couple left by train for Uppingham, near Leicester, where the honeymoon will be spent. As the train steamed out from the station detonators were fired and the bridegroom’s railway comrades gave them a hearty send off.

The usually quiescent village of Weare Gifford, noted for its Hall and its strawberry teas, was the scene of considerable excitement on the occasion of an outbreak of fire which did considerable damage at the Riversdale Tea Room and dairy farm, the home of Mr and Mrs Titus Moore. Mr Moore walked round the premises at 10.30pm, and half an hour later, Sergt Major Hammersley, retired, who lives in a house the other side of the road, made his customary look round and noticed nothing amiss. About an hour later, Mrs Moore was awakened by a loud knocking (subsequently found was caused by the frantic efforts of the horse, valued at £30) and the reflection of flames was seen in the bedroom window. Their little girl roused Mr Charles Jeffery together with Mr and Mrs Gilbert. As well as the stable, the tea rooms and other farm buildings near the dwelling house were well alight. Neighbours Chas Jeffery and Mr & Mrs Gilbert were soon on the scene and set about saving the main house and the horses. The fire brigade from Torrington arrived and used water from the mill leat to feed the manual engine. The fire was extinguished by 5am. Sadly one horse was lost but the cattle, ducks and hens were outside and survived, as did the house. All the contents of the tea room were destroyed, along with a piano belonging to the village which had been stored there until a village hall could be built.

The Westward Ho! Football Club had their annual dinner at the Pebble Ridge Hotel. After an excellent repast, to which 33 sat down, and which was supplied Host Hambly, a smoking concert took place – Messrs G Kelly, E Littlejohns, Hutchings, Mitchell, Metherall, R Newcombe, Lawson and Paddon, contributing to the harmony. A number of toasts were proposed and responded to by the following: Messrs Wilkey, E Taylor, G Hutchings, E Littlejohns and W Metherall.

An excellent concert was given in the Council School, £9 16s 6d being raised for Church funds. Mr Robert Harper unfortunately, through illness, could not appear but he had very kindly got together a contingent from Bideford, and Mr Jenkins and Mr Stevens had most generously provided the transport. This is not the first time Bideford has helped the Church in Woolsery.

Mr Frederick William Ridd, a butcher, of Woolsery is involved in some excitement in High-street, Bideford.

March 1974

A second outbreak of influenza has hit schools and, to a lesser extent, industry in the area. The wave is passing, but at its peak around 70 girls from Bideford Edgehill College as well as staff members were ill. In the case of boarders they overflowed from the sick bay and one of the houses had to be given up to them. To a lesser extent girls and staff were affected at Stella Maris and at other schools more children and staff than usual are away. The effect has not been so marked in industry, possibly because with a three-day week workers have tended to struggle on.

Trustees who are proposing to spend an estimated £1,200 on the installation of oil-fired central heating at the almshouses at Alwington told Bideford Rural Council that oil filled electric radiators previously provided were not used because of high running costs. New the houses were heated only by open coal fires in the living rooms. But the council’s public health and housing committee through central heating would prove very expensive for the aged tenants and the council are to tell the trustees that in their view it would be no less costly to run that the radiators.

Silver candelabra were presented to the Rev Gwynne H Watkey and Mrs Watkeys at a celebration to mark Mr Watkey’s 25th anniversary as minister of Appledore and Westward Ho! Baptist churches. They were handed to them by Mr Alan Smith on behalf of the congregation of both churches.

Appledore Shark Angling Club is making great strides to put North Devon on the map. Formed at the end of 1971, the club already has 11 members who caught fish over 75lb to qualify for the Shark Angling Club of Great Britain by the end of their first season’s fishing. During that first year, chartering the Silver Puff, members made 24 sorties to various parts of Bideford Bay. Members include Mr Ernie ‘Bosun’ Carter, Mrs Paula Summers, Mr D Cockram and Comm R Rowe.

Appledore Town Silver Band’s ‘dial-a-band’ scheme has again attracted the attention of the BBC – this time in a programme to be seen in colour within the next fortnight on the early evening ‘Nationwide’ programme. In January they were the subject of a film report on BBC West.

The phrase family tree took on a very real meaning at St Mary’s Church, Appledore, when 24 trees were planted in the churchyard. The trees were supplied by Devon County Council, but at the suggestion of the Vicar, the Rev Donald Peyton Jones, local families not only planted them but undertook to be responsible for their maintenance for all time. Newly married couples and others who plan to get married at Appledore this year were among those who planted trees, among parents who took the opportunity to mark the baptism of their children were Mr and Mrs Roger Day, of Irsha Street, who infant son was baptised earlier that same day.

As part of their everyday work the men in this picture have between them driven for at least 44 weeks a year for a total of 95 years without having had an accident. And that doesn’t include the policeman! Police Superintendent B J Phillips called at the offices of the South Western Electricity Board at Bideford to present awards to board employees. One of the board’s senior electricians, Mr R J Kelly of Clovelly, received a bar to add to his medal. Others to receive the awards were – H King, R A Short, R Colwill, M Schiller, G B John, P G Shackson, H Eastman, L C Davey, K W Foley, A Mugford, J H Mayne, J Sluman, G Vickery, J Vickery, D B Peacham and E Tanton. The awards are in respect of driving up to end of 1972.

Bideford Bridge Townswomen’s Guild celebrated their 25th anniversary with a dinner at the Royal Hotel. Membership of the Bridge Guild exceeds 80. The president, Mrs F Jewell, is seen cutting the celebration cake, accompanied by Mrs R Harding, Mrs F Smyth, Mrs A Blatchford, Mrs Trigger and Mrs Scott.

Bideford’s oldest resident, Miss Harriett Diamond, of Elm Grove, is 104. ‘Auntie Mig’ as she is known to her friends, is confined to bed but continues to be alert and cheerful and takes a keen interest in the news. She lives with her niece, Mrs G Cunningham, who has looked after Miss Diamond and her late sister, Mrs E Bradford, who reached the age of 102, for many years.

Bideford’s oldest postman, Mr Arthur Rowe, hung up his bag. Only five months short of his 75th birthday he said: “I’m looking forward to a long retirement.” Mr Rowe, of Elmdale Road, did not start his post office career until he was 65, and that was after retiring from over 40 years’ service with the Royal Blue and Southern National as a driver.

Sisters Shirley and Lindsay Tucker and their cousins Simon, Matthew and Clare Langdon brought some of their four-legged friends together for this picture taken at Cadds Down Farm, Bideford, the home of Mr and Mrs T P Tucker. Easily the senior member of the group is Trixie the pony, seen here with her young companion Bobby. Next in order of seniority comes 14 year old collie Rexo.

A remarkable triple coincidence marked the last baptism by Preb T Derwent Davies as Rector of Bideford. The baptism at St Peter’s Church, East-the-Water, was that of baby Lee Anthony Davis, son of Mr and Mrs Davis, Elm Grove, Bideford. The godfather, Mr David Johnstone was the first baby Preb Davies baptised as a curate in Bideford in 1945 – and David’s brother Paul was the first he baptised when he became Rector here in 1958. Preb Davies was at David’s confirmation and also officiated at his wedding. David and Paul are the sons of Mrs E Johnstone and the late Mr W H R Johnstone, of The Anchorage, Slade, Northdown Road, Bideford.

Volunteers were kept busy making masses of pancakes for Bideford Buccaneers’ pancake races held on the Quay on Shrove Tuesday. There were so many entries in the children’s classes that two heats had to be run in the boys’ section. The opening race, for women, was won by Mrs Smale from a field of 11. Stuart Humphries triumphed in the boys’ section and Carol Keen won the girls’ event. Winner of the men’s race was Mr Malcolm Hook.

There was absolutely no truth in the rumour that they were being taken over by Fine Fare, a spokesman of the Ford and Lock chain of stores told the Gazette. “We have heard the same rumour: it seems to be a regular thing,” he added. Ford and Lock intended to carry on with their rapid expansion. In 14 years they had built up to 28 outlets with two more to open this year.

Help to buy boats for Bideford Amateur Athletic Club and Bideford Amateur Rowing Club.

Major expansion plans announced by Bideford Toy Works Ltd include the provision of a new factory which will provide jobs for up to 300. It is understood that 12 different sites are being considered, some outside the area. But it was stressed that the is still room for expansion at the existing Bideford factory.

Members of the Stella Maris school team which won first place in the junior section of the Bideford schools’ road safety quiz admire their trophy.

Jackie Turner, David Adams, David Pope, Lynn Williams and Christopher Sherborne

The Rev Charles Sutton, who has been instituted as Vicar of Bradworthy, served the Anglican church in Canada for 14 years in the early part of his ministry and during the war was a chaplain with the Royal Canadian Air Force. A bachelor, he is accompanied by his sister, Miss Hilda Sutton, who has been his companion and housekeeper since he took Holy Orders. She, too, served in the RCAF – as an accountant. The benefice has been vacant for nearly three years since the retirement of the Rev H T Lingham Lees.

Bideford Rural District Council’s housing schemes are being held up because of lack of materials and bad weather. Members were told that work on the site at Buckland Brewer was proceeding very slowly and that a start on the site at Woolsery had been delayed for a month.

Former pupils were bearers at the funeral at Bucks Cross of Mrs Elsie Thomas, of St Anne’s Cottage, Bucks Mills, former headmistress of Parkham and Bucks Mills schools. She was a member of Bideford Camera Club and a collector for the Hospital Aid Society.

The first clue into the mysterious jet from RAF Chivenor may have been uncovered at Bucks Mills.

Mr C Braund, of The Quay, Clovelly, says “Think of the donkeys!”

More than half the money paid out in rent rebates to private tenants by Bideford Rural District Council went to those at Clovelly, the clerk Mr A J Blatchford, told council members. The 16 or 17 private tenants at Clovelly received about £30 a week between them.

In light of their promise to grant £150 and Hartland Parish Council’s decision to give £80 towards the provision of tennis courts at Hartland, Bideford Rural District Council are hoping that the Education Authority will be prepared to make a full grant of £710.

Ben Travers’ farce “Rookery Nook” chosen this year by Hartland Drama Group provided enjoyment for an audience of over 200 in its 2-night showing. Those taking part were Mrs Antoinette Moat, Mrs Jon Perrin, Mr Rupert Summers, Mr Micky Chapman-Pincher, Mr Kevin Ogden, Miss Gussie Greenlees, Mr Steve Howlett, Mr John Scott, Mrs Heather Scott, Mrs Alice Clark, Mrs Janet Summers. Producer was Mr Daniel Newton.

Because of indications that there was ‘considerable weight of opinion’ against its provisions, Bideford Rural District Council have agreed to withdraw an Order for a diversion of a public footpath at Blagdon Farm, Hartland. A complaint by a neighbouring farmer that the County Council had carried out work on another footpath without notifying him was referred to the County Council.

Aircraftman Andrew Lance Dipper of View Close, Instow, was awarded a Certificate of Merit as best all round recruit of his flight on graduation.

Interest at the February meeting of the North Devon Numismatic Society was centred on a Charles I shilling dated 1645 and said to have been minted on Lundy Island. Despite intensive research members could establish no definite proof that a mint ever existed on Lundy although Thomas Bushell, who was in charge of the island during the Civil War had mints elsewhere and was also in charge of the silver mines at Combe Martin. It was felt that any coins attributed to Lundy had almost been minted at Barnstaple.

Tax changes Lundy life.

A swimming pool is to be restored to Northam Urban Council’s overall plan for the development of Burrough Farm.

Some 200 entries were received for a schools road safety arts and crafts competition at Northam. Gift vouchers were presented during an assembly at St Margaret’s School, Northam, and plaques to Northam Methodist Church team which won the recent junior quiz. Prizes were awarded to: Edwin Astbury, Garry Wallace, Hazel Woodland, Stephen Morris, Jonathon Charles, Louise Andrews, Richard Moulton, Lindsay Warmington, Sally Dawson, Nicola Sled, Hayley Holman, Petra Hicks, Richard Boon, Steven Barter, Robert Goldsworthy, Jessica Rose, Fiona Jenn and Mark Elston.

Captain Henry Oswald Wilkinson, of Bay View Road, Northam, who died at the age of 82, was a retired Marine Superintendent who was with Houlder Bros and Co Ltd, Buenos Aires. He was president of Northam and Westward Ho! Conservative Association, a member of Appledore Lifeboat Committee, and of Bideford Lodge of Benevolence of Freemasons. The Rev D Pine officiated at the funeral service.

Some of the Westcountry’s leading players competed in an invitation competition at the Lenwood Squash Club. Winner of the Robin Gale cup was Nigel Foulkes, the Devon No. 3 player. In the final he defeated Clive Stiff in a hard fought match. Semi-finalists were former Cornish county champion Nick Barrington and Devon county player George Ackland. Best performance by a local player was by teacher Simon Lloyd. A plate competition was won by Tim Langdon of Bideford after a five game final with Andrew Joynson.

In the photograph are: David Allsop, Brian French, E Tudor, T Langdon, N Foulkes, D Pike, C Stiff, C Stockman, P Cross, K Spencer and M King

‘Showing the flag’ had a special significance when the top picture reproduced here was taken at Parkham. Members of the newly-formed Parkham 1st cubs-scouts pack, who had just been invested, are seen examining the flag of a pack of wolf cubs, as they were then known, that flourished in the village around 30 years ago. The flag was made by the grandmother of one of the helpers with the new pack, Mrs Alice Hockin. It was a nostalgic occasion for Mr Grenville Glover, for he was a member of the wolf cubs. His son, Stephen, is one of the new pack.

Pack members seen in the modern picture are Roger Honey, Stephen Glover, Paul Wilks, Philip Priest, Richard Heywood, Richard Marsden, Kevin Glover, Arthur Griffin, Terry Souch and Andrew Souch

What is believed to be the largest pair of gloves ever made by a local firm has been supplied by Sudbury’s Gloves Ltd to the King of Tonga, in the South Pacific. Made in grey nylon fabric for use on formal occasions, they measured six inches across the palm. HM King Taufa’abau the Fourth of Tonga is an imposing figure, and succeeded his mother, the late Queen Salote. Sudbury’s, who have factories at Bideford, Appledore and Torrington, also have the distinction of supplying the nylon fabric gloves included in the complete set of gloves annually presented to the Lady Mayoress of London by the Worshipful Company of Glovers. These are made by Mrs Cynthia Dymond, of Lime Grove, Bideford, who is chief instructor to newcomers joining the firm.

After 25 years’ service as Borough Beadle of Torrington, Mr Jack Avery has resigned. He is a native of East-the-Water, Bideford, and has two sisters – Miss May Avery of Honestone Street, and Mrs Ivy Glover, of Copps Close. He and his wife, Phyllis, a daughter of the late Mr George Yeo who was Mayor of Torrington, have two daughters and a son, all married.

Work on Torrington’s swimming pool scheme began this week. Announcing this, the surveyor, Mr Peter Symons, said the overall cost was £76,829. The pool is to be built on part of the cattle market site, near other sports facilities and convenient to the centre of the town.

Figures too low for crossing at New Street, Torrington.

As part of their careers course, 38 boys from Torrington County Secondary School spent a day with the Army at Wyvern Barracks, Exeter. They all negotiated the assault course and fired self-loading rifles and machine guns. The visit enabled the boys to have a close look at conditions in the Junior Leaders Regiment and four of the boys afterwards said it had confirmed their choice of a service career. Mr M Vanderpant, head of the school’s careers department, said that this was one of a series of visits and in the future pupils would be travelling to the Royal Navy training centre at Raleigh, Plymouth, the Amphibious Experimental Establishment at Instow, Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd and Sussman’s of Barnstaple.

Westward Ho! WI celebrated its 26th birthday by planting a tree in the grounds of The Chalet old people’s home. The president, Mrs L Pope, presented a variegated holly, which was accepted by Mrs M Congdon.

A plan to convert the station hall at Westward Ho! into a beer garden style public house was approved by Northam Council – but only on the vote of the chairman, Mr John Smith. The outline planning application by Mr Eric Hart had originally been recommended for refusal but the County Council disagreed. The building was at present vacant, had approved planning use as a discotheque. Mrs E M Hilder said she felt very strongly that the council had ‘missed the boat’ by not acquiring this property. She added: “It would have been ideal for us, providing a much-needed shelter which we have wanted in Westward Ho! for years and years.”

A sea outfall nearly three and a third miles long from Westward Ho! beach would be needed for the Bideford-Northam joint sewerage scheme to meet the demands of the Department of Environment inspector who conducted a public inquiry into the project. This was stated in a report on hydrographic investigations. The report added that the dilution from the outfall would be preferable to treating the sewage to Royal Commission standards in a shore-based treatment works and discharging the effluent to the low water mark.

Movable loos for Westward Ho!

Efforts to find the owner of land at the rear of Golden Bay garages at Westward Ho! which Northam Urban Council want to use, have proved unsuccessful. The council are to make a compulsory order if the owner is not found.

A £1 million scheme to erect what were described as ‘high rise’ flats on the site of The Pines, Atlantic Way, Westward Ho! has been vetoed by Northam Urban Council. They agreed to recommend for refusal a planning application by Geocrest Properties who want to build blocks of two and three bedroomed flats. The housing committee told the council “Blocks of flats of this magnitude are not considered to be in keeping with the area in general.”

No mention of Winkleigh on signposts.

The funeral has taken place at Woolsery Parish Church of Mrs Ada Johns, of Hill Croft, Woolsery, aged 82 years. She was the wife of the late Mr Albert Johns, formerly of Stitworthy Farm. The bearers were Messrs G Andrew, H Andrew, M Andrew, M Heywood, R Heywood and W Heywood, nephews.

‘Mad people’ who drive through the village of Woolsery at 50mph have been criticised at a parish council meeting. “Most people drive with care and consideration, but a number of these chaps, whose time is money, drive like maniacs and it is they and the summer visitors who are the menace, “ said Mr John Downes.

March 1999

The French may be world soccer champions but a North Devon pub has been causing them blushes in their own traditional game of boule, or pétanque. The Pig-on-the-Hill at Abbotsham not only has its own pétanque club with one of this country’s best pétanque terrains (pitches) but has yet to be beaten in matches against French opposition home or away! “The game originated with the use of cannon balls” said club chairman Chris Preston-Smith.

Semi-detached cottage at Abbotsham for sale.

Appledore is planning a giant photograph of all its villagers, a colourful new village sign, and a mermaid of its very own! They are some of the ideas in prospect for the estuary village’s second arts festival planned for the beginning of June. Last year’s popular summer event featuring a mix of professional, amateur and community initiatives and events captured the imagination and has secured a second year of funding. In keeping with it maritime history, water will feature large in the proceedings.

Appledore Letting Agency requires an ‘experienced part time PA’.

Appledore pub landlords Grahame Stone and Barry Lewis are to be ‘gunged’ to raise cash for Comic Relief. The neighbouring Beaver Inn and Royal George pubs have a tradition of joining forces for charity fund raising. Beaver chef Ashley Jewell will be having a red dyed Mohican haircut and there will be a charity auction including a gallon of whisky and a valuable golf print with miniature golf clubs.

It may not be the Amazon, but a charity trip down the River Torridge being planned promises to be quite a journey. Fellow surfing and canoeing enthusiasts Simon May of Appledore, Andrew Short of Bideford, Andrew Freeman and Greg Ford of Westward Ho! will enter the river at Taddiport and travel 10 miles downstream to Appledore. Their transport will be two large inflated tyres on loan from Skern Lodge. The foursome have planned their trip as a contribution to Comic Relief.

A well known Bideford head of hair was given the chop for the first time in local memory. Robert Bennett of Clifton Street celebrated his 50th birthday by creating a new image and raising a tidy sum for children’s charities. Even Robert himself couldn’t remember the last time his ‘Viking style’ hair had been cut. After a first snip by young Claire Cussell other customers at the Blacksmiths Arms were invited to join in. A final shave by John Hancock competed the transformation.

Shepherd Graeme Sims of Bideford is claiming a world record for working seven sheepdogs at once as part of a team all wearing dog collars including him! Graeme is an ordained priest as well as being resident shepherd at the Milky Way Adventure Park near Clovelly. His seven-dog feat is so far unchallenged. And that’s a problem, because to publish a world record and get into the Guiness Book there has to be a challenger!

Narrow Mill Street has been the hub of Bideford life for centuries. It is mentioned in documents dating back to the first half of the 14th century, when the presence of a mill would have made it particularly important. The mill was probably a tidal mill. Today Mill Street remains at the centre of town activity with a profusion of more than 50 shops and commercial enterprises. The traditional butcher, baker and candlestick maker can all be found along its length.

Large Belgian chocolate eggs will help two North Devon charities to celebrate Easter. The eggs were presented by Woolworths of Bideford to the Children’s Hospice South West and the local branch of the Imperial Cancer Research Fund.

Bill Grundy, Jon Adams, Kate Silk and Maureen Palmer

When young swimmers from the Bideford Bay Surf Lifesaving Club took the plunge for charity they did it in a big way. Members of the 100-strong club put in a huge effort to raise funds for less fortunate children. Together they have raised around £1,000 which is going to the North Devon Children’s Holiday Foundation.

Students of Edgehill College in Bideford carried off 13 trophies at the Devon and Exeter Festival of Speech and Drama. Their trophy winners were: Margaret Sanders (Buckland Brewer), Sophie Perks (Bideford), Joana Taskis (Halwill), Emily Simons (Ashreigney), Hannah Arnold (Weare Gifford), Natalie Barker (Northam), Diana Scott (Westleigh), Chris Bargery, Anna Forbes, Pandora Garwood, Victoria Jephcote, Daniel Smith (Morwenstow), Moira Johns (Bideford), Rachel Forbes (Ilfracombe).

For sale by public auction – The Laurels, 106 West Street, Hartland.

The Lloyds Bank branch in Hartland is closing despite the protests of local businesses. Firms and individuals face a 30-mile round trip to the nearest branch in Bideford. But Girobank says people can use its service at the village post office.

For sale by public auction – Seacroft, Lakenham Hill, Northam.

Admiral Court, Northam – properties for sale.

Pictured at RAF College Cranwell is Pilot Officer James Bertie, from Northam, who has graduated as an RAF officer. His parents David and Carol still live in Northam. A keen sportsman, James enjoys rugby, cricket and swimming.

An attempted robbery at a Northam supermarket was foiled by the actions of a shop assistant. A man entered the Savers Supermarket in The Square and approached the till, grabbed the assistant’s arm and demanded money. But she broke away and pushed the panic alarm. The man ran out without stealing anything.

Estate agents Brian Sims report the sale of two redundant factories, one was at Torrington where there is permission for houses bordering a communal area and within a short walk of the town centre.

Spring is in the air in Torrington where the young people are already thinking of May Fair. This year’s May Queen will be Kelly Williams and her crowner will be Sarah Callaghan. Making up the royal retinue will be Robbie Tubb, Laurence Oglivie, Emma Gooch, Jai Hepponstall, Corina Bevan, Alaina Barnes, Rachel Bateman, Tayler Burke, Gemma Knight and Sherene Hollands. Just a short distance away the older students of Great Torrington School have made their choices for the girls who will lead the town’s May Fair Carnival parade.

Annette Allan, Nicola Coles, and Natasha Reed

More people are needed in Torrington to ensure the nose meets the tail in a giant charity conga around the town square. Children from the Bluecoat Infants’ and Nursery School are behind the event for Comic Relief, and are backed by the Torrington Cavaliers’ charity group and the town’s Community Development Trust. But the youngsters have a problem. They are more than 300 bodies short of the 561 conga participants needed to encircle the town square and for the ends to meet up.

Bluecoat Infants and deputy head, Jane Rivans

Later in the month, it was reported that Torrington was in dancing mood with some 480 children and adults taking part in a giant fancy dress conga around the town square. Mayor Mike Lamprey and Community Constable Jenny Herniman donned red noses to lead the way. A collection in the streets and the sale of red noses brought in around £450 for the Comic Relief charity.

A well-known North Devon nightspot is being reborn, with the promise of more music, dancing and entertainment. The Kingsley Klub at Westward Ho! is being refurbished and launched at the Kingsley Entertainments Centre after being saved by a businesswoman from the threat of demolition to make room for houses.

Disc jockeys Jonah and Paul Fry at the Kingsley Club

When Peter Sawyer from Atlantic Adventure took on a business partner he got more than he bargained for – a second business within one month! Peter and Bryan Smith are now partners in Atlantic Adventure, a dive centre, and AA Engineering services which offers a multi-skilled engineer, welding, and supply and installation of industrial doors. How is Atlantic Adventure coming on after nearly two years? Said Peter “We now hire the pool at the leisure centre to train divers through the PADI systems. We allow people to try scuba diving. We run a 40-foot charter boat to Lundy and have a second boat on the way.” They dive mainly around Lundy. Bryan does a lot of maintenance engineering and they also carry out welded fabrication and installation work. “We’re currently working on contracts for Torridge Vale and Stapleton Farm Dairies, as well as Wormald Fire systems,” said Peter.

The Buccaneer, Bath Hotel Road, Westward Ho! is opening.

Brother and sister Nicholas and Jennifer Law knew which charity they wanted the prize money donated to when they won a ‘colour the Christmas card’ competition. It was £200. “Please give it to the North Devon Cancer Care Trust” they told the organisers Corinth Medical. It was a welcome surprise for the Trust’s founder and keen fundraiser Jennifer Bonetta because they were her grandchildren! The youngsters are Grenville College pupils and both help out in the Trust’s charity shop at Westward Ho!

When cheese factory worker Tim Medd heard that his local parish church was desperately in need of cash, he decided to get on his bike. Tim will spend his day off pedalling to Land’s End and back from his home at Venn, Woolsery. He is inviting parishioners to sponsor him at so much per mile. All Hallow’s Church at Woolsery is in need of major repairs. Despite a substantial grant from English Heritage, parishioners still have to raise about £12,000.

Years Ago - February

February 1924

A settlement of the strike of railway locomotive men was reached after 19 hours continuous conference.

It is estimated that the strike cost the strikers and their union £230,000 in loss of wages and strike pay. The companies’ loss of revenue is estimated at £4,000,000. It is almost impossible to estimate the incidental loss caused by the dislocation of other industries. Despite the settlement of the enginemen’s strike, labour troubles in England are by no means at an end.

At Friendship's Cafe in Bideford, a exhibition of 'fuel-less' cookery. Do you know what this 'wonderful invention' consisted of?

The prevalence of colds and influenza is seriously affecting the attendance at the elementary schools. There were 70 absentees from one school at Bideford on one day. At the commencement of the month the attendances at the principal schools in the town were up to about 95 per cent.

Mrs Harriett Hall of Oldstone House, Abbotsham, is summoned and fined 6s.

News was received with regret of the death of George Worth, the youngest son of Mr and Mrs H Worth, of Moreton Lodge, on the Hartland Road, Abbotsham. The funeral took place

A successful dance has been held in the schoolroom at Alverdiscott. During an interval, the Rev A H Oak-Rhind presented a leather writing compendium to Miss Newcombe for her voluntary care of the parish church while without a verger.

News of the death in London of Major John Hendley Morrison Kirkwood, JP, DSO, of Yeo Vale, Alwington, was received in the Bideford district with much regret. The body was cremated at Golders Green, where the chief mourners attending the funeral service were the widow, Mr Robert and Mr John Kirkwood, Miss Diana Kirkwood, Mrs Aubertin, and Col C H Kirkwood. Mrs Morrison Kirkwood, Major Kirkwood’s mother, is at present in Egypt.

Later, a funeral took place ….

A large proportion of the Appledore population is down with influenza. From one shipyard it is stated 40 men were home out of 70. In one of his sermons, Rev Hugh C A S Muller, while sympathising with all who were suffering or had suffered from the influenza epidemic, mentioned that it was the saddest week he had known for a long time, and he felt sorry to think that his Sick and Needy Fund could not provide sufficient milk and other necessities in the present emergency, as there were over 300 cases of illness.

About forty rabbits were sent to the Vicar by Mr A Christie, of Tapeley Park, Instow, for distribution to the poor.

A local Chamber of Trade for Appledore?

Appledore fisherman, William Cox, acquitted.

After a lapse of several years the Appledore Branch of the Girls’ Friendly Society under the auspices of Mrs Hugh Muller assisted by Mrs Harvey, gave a large social evening with a delightful supper at the National School. Over a hundred young people of both sexes sat down to a splendid supper, which was entirely catered for by Miss Martha Bilton, of the Vicarage Staff, and the following kindly supervised the tables: Mrs Hugh Muller, Mrs Harvey, Mrs Louie Lamey, Misses Minnie Cook, Maudie Fishwick, Minnie Lamey, Bertha Guard, Gwendoline Guard, Muriel Lamey, Hilda McCarthy, Florence Jenkins and Miss Ethel White.

In sunshine, a large gathering assembled at St Mary’s Church, in Appledore, to witness the wedding of Miss Elsie White, the second daughter of Captain John and Mrs Harriet White, to Mr Philip George Kelly Laverty Harris, the eldest son of Mr Frederick and Mrs Harris, of Dockhouse, and foreman shipwright of the firm P K Harris and Sons and grandson of Councillor P K Harris. Mr John Eastman, uncle of the bride, gave his niece away. Mr Frederick Harris, brother of the bridegroom ably discharged the duties of best man. At the conclusion of the service at Church the bells were nicely chimed by Mr J Heard. The wedding guests were photographed by Mr Ellis, and a very happy day was concluded by a Cinderella dance, and later in the evening the happy young couple left for Langton House, kindly placed at their disposal by Councillor P K Harris.

A pretty wedding took place at St Mary’s Church, Appledore. Owing to the Vicar’s illness, Rev J A S Castlehow, Curate of Northam, kindly officiated. The contracting parties were Mr John Kelly Cobbledick, shipwright, and Miss Vera Powe.

Appledore received the sad news of the death of Mr Harry Cox. He served his shipwright apprenticeship at Appledore and was a regular attendant at the Appledore Young Men’s Bible Class. He married Harriet, daughter of Mrs Tucker, of One End Street, and has left a widow and two children. He was the eldest son of the late Captain John Cox, who was the eldest son of the late Captain James Cox of the Trinity Stores, and a son of the famous Coxswain Cox for many years in charge of the Appledore lifeboat, and a grandson of Nelson’s great coxswain Cox, who was nicknamed ‘Warrior’.

A large number of sailors assembled at St Mary’s Churchyard, Appledore, to pay their last respects to the late Mr John Berry, one who had served for 31 years in the Appledore lifeboats being 2nd coxswain of the Saunton boat for 18 years under the late Coxswain Smallridge and for 13 years in charge of the Appledore lifeboat.

An Appledore man met with a somewhat severe cycling accident. Mr James Green of Myrtle-street, was cycling down Orchard Hill when the handle bars worked slack, with the result that all steering and braking control became impossible. Gathering speed, the machine eventually crashed into the wall near the Westward Ho! turning. Mr Green was thrown heavily, sustaining injuries to face and limbs.

Next month, one of the last wooden line-of-battle ships ever to be built will come over Bideford Bar to be broken up at Hinks Yard. She will be towed by two tugs from Clyde Shipping Company in and the charge of Captain Richard Hooper of 4 Richmond Road, Appledore. The vessel is now known as the Empress, but her original and better known name was Revenge. For many years she has been used as a training ship for the Merchant Service.

Sentry Corner site in Bideford – layout and plans available.

Work is taking place on Bideford Bridge, during which the parapet has been removed and replaced with wire railings.

A two-ton petrol lorry belonging to the Anglo-American Oil Company left its depot at East the Water loaded with 300 gallons of oil and many two-gallon cans of petrol. The driver was Charles Cloke, a married man aged around 48 years, of 15 Marland Terrace, Bideford and an experienced driver. His assistant was his son Charles, 21 years old, also married and living at 5 Silver Street, Appledore. Part way across the bridge the lorry was seen to veer to the left, the wheel slipped off the edge of the bridge and the lorry went over. Thankfully the tide was low. Many people witnessed the accident so help was quickly on its way, including Dr Ellis Pearson who gave immediate first aid. Both men were taken in a boat to the slipway then by car to Bideford Hospital. The younger man suffered only superficial injuries but his father was badly hurt. It is thought that a loose stone could have upset the steering enough to send the lorry crashing through the temporary barrier. The after-effects of this horrific event prompt many other comments in the Gazette during the month, including the danger to school children who have to cross the bridge four times a day in term time. The local hotels who normally advertise their luxury accommodation to people arriving by train are also concerned. The Town Council is giving the matter much thought.

Miss M Windeatt Roberts gave a talk to the Young People’s Guild at Lavington Congregational Church, Bideford on the topic of Collecting. She spoke about the recreative value of a hobby, noting that King Charles 11 collected spaniels and Mr Gladstone collected Leeds pottery. Among the many other options put forward were brass rubbing, memorial inscriptions, door-knockers and ivory back-scratchers. She was also ahead of her time in suggesting that one member of every family should take responsibility to record the history of that family in documents and photographs, recommending a loose-leaf file as the ideal method of keeping everything together.

Miss Bazeley and Miss Brayley, lady Guardians, gave their annual treat to the inmates of the Bideford Poor-Law Institution, providing their guest with a tea and a Christmas tree, with presents for the children. There also attended and helped:

The paper of 12 February has a long report of the first ever Bideford Eisteddfod, which was held over three days and organised by the Wesley Guild under the leadership of Misses F & B Daniel. There were over 450 entries. Does anyone know if this event was ever repeated?

There has been a fire at Saltrens, Bideford, residence of Alderman J U Fulford. Weatherboarding over a gable window was spotted well alight and flames were spreading under the roof. The household staff and workmen got it quickly under control and the damage – estimated at between £40 and £50 – will be covered by the insurance. The cause is thought to be sparks from a chimney igniting an old bird’s nest.

The funeral of Mrs Ellen Copp, widow of the late Mr W H Copp, of 10 Torridge Street, Bideford, took place. A short service was held in the Bethel by Mr Haimes, the deceased having been a member for about 50 years. Rev W N Manning officiated att he graveside. Messrs J Dark, T Stacey, G Colwill, W Shute, H Backway and J West acted as bearers.

We regret to announce the death of the late Mr Fred G Copp, of 4 Sunnyside, East-the-Water. Deceased was well known and held in great respect in the district, having been employed by Messrs John Cock and Sons for close on forty years. The funeral at East-the-Water cemetery was officiated by the Rev C B Crofts. The cortege was headed by the deceased’s fellow workmen, the bearers being Mr J Hancock, O Squires, H Kivell, H Branch, J Glover and H Heale. Other friends and neighbours followed.

We regret to record the death of Mr W H Colmer, shoemaker, who had been in the employ of Messrs Prouse for over 50 years, and resided at 1 Milton Place, Bideford. He passed away after a long and painful illness patiently borne, and was buried at the Church Cemetary, East-the-Water. Rev C B Crofts officiated.

The death of Mr Frederick Fulford, manager of Bideford Gas Works, is announced.

We regret to record the death at the age of 83 years, of Mrs Elizabeth Bishop, at her residence, Meadow-view, Clovelly Road, Bideford. She was the widow of Mr William Bishop who was a well-known inhabitant of the town, and she was herself held in high esteem by a large circle of friends. She leaves a son and four daughters with whom and other members of the family much sympathy is expressed in their loss.

At Bideford Borough Licensing Sessions Inspector Doidge said the number of licensed houses was 32, the same as the previous year. Once innkeeper had been convicted and fined 21s. Nine persons had been proceeded with compared to ten. The population (1921 Census) being 9,125, there was one licensed house to every 285 of population. The conduct of the license holders had been good and there no objection to any of the licenses being renewed.

On the application of Mr H R Bazeley, a twelve months’ music and dancing license was granted in the name of the Rector, Rev W N Manning, for the Church Lads’ Brigade Hall, Allhalland-street, Bideford, Mr A M Alford applied for a protection order in regard to the license of the Old Porto Bello Inn, Honestone Street, in favour of Mr John Day, who comes from Norfold, and whom had purchased the freehold of the premises.

For the chimney of 4 Mill-Street, Bideford, of which house he is the occupier, being accidentally on fire, George F Strudwick was fined 3s by the Bideford Magistrates. PC Worwood said the defendant told him the chimney was swept in September last.

At the Hartland funeral of the late Mr R Bert Walter, the Vicar officiated. The mourners attending included the widow and Miss Ida Cook. The bearers were Messrs William Beer (Anchor), W Heard (Greenlake), L Heard (Galsham), Mervyn Pillman (Longfurlong), T Walter (West Street) and T A Walter (Etson).

Mr John Dennis gave tea to Elmscott Sunday School. The rewards were distributed after which the evening was devoted to games and singing.

Household furniture from Verne, Instow, is for sale by public auction, with instructions from Mrs Pike.

At the Green Dragon Inn, Langtree, Messrs Greenwood of Exeter offered a block of freehold cottages (lately owned by Mr H E Nethaway) for sale by auction. First offered in one lot the highest bid was £335 but as this was below the reserve the cottages were offered to and bought by the tenants by private treaty.

The members of the Langtree Church Recreation Room learnt with regret that Mr J Johns relinquished his post as caretaker. His resignation was rendered imperative by advancing years, aggravated by a recent accident, from which, it is gratifying to state, he is recovering. Since his appointment on Lady-day, 1921, he has fulfilled his various duties keenly and zealously, and to the entire satisfaction of all. The duties will now be temporarily undertaken by Mr J Adams.

The scholars of Langtree Church Sunday School were given their annual tea in the schoolroom, when Mrs G Mills and Miss J Budd presided at the tables. After tea parents and interested adults were admitted and merriment began. Indoor games, including forfeits, musical chairs, jolly miller, skittling, dancing, singing, etc. were indulged in and heartily enjoyed. Books and prizes were distributed by the Rev B Hallowes. At the conclusion ringing cheers were given for the rector, the pianist (Mrs W Brownscombe) and the cooks.

16th North Devon (Northam) Troop Boy Scouts organise a fancy dress ball at the Kingsley Gym, Westward Ho!

The Indian General Service Medal with Afghan Bar for service in 1919 on the Frontier has just been received by Pte J Eastman, of Fore Street, Northam, who was a member of the 16th Devons.

At Bideford County Sessions, Montague Thomas Littlejohns, a motorman, of Northam, was summoned for unreasonably obstructing traffic at Fore Street, by leaving a motor lorry alongside the kerb for 20 minutes. PC Phillpotts gave evidence, and the Magistrates held that the case was proved, and defendant was fined 3s.

The funeral of the late Mrs Mary Blackford, the widow of James Blackford took place at Northam Churchyard with the Rev Gerald G Payne Cook and Rev Castlehow officiating. The coffin bore the inscription “Mary Blackford, died 25th January 1924, aged 85 years.” There was a large attendance. The following acted as bearers – Sergt Barber, Messrs Richard Hearn, W Alford, C Lloyd, W Taylor and E Kelly. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Mr R C Littlejohns, Northam.

The funeral took place of the late Mrs Sarah Hammett, wife of Mr John Hammett, of Lenwood Cottage, Northam, who died at the age of 69 years. Deceased was very highly respected in the district as was shown by the very large number that attended to pay the last tribute of respect. Amongst the large number attending were the husband, Mrs Pearse,

A meeting in Parkham has voted to start a Women’s Institute branch. Mrs Knowles will be the first president, Mrs Allardice Vice-president and Miss Sloman secretary.

The present spell of fine weather is enabling ploughing, etc. to be pushed forward with great energy. The lambing season is practically over.

We regret to announce the death of Mrs Grace Chamberlain, of Radford Farm, Shebbear, at the age of 88 years. She was one of the oldest parishioners, a member of one of the oldest families in the neighbourhood and held in high esteem by a wide circle of friends.

A pretty wedding was solemnised at the Parish Church, Torrington, by the Rev Preg F Emlyn Jones, the contracting parties being Mr Charles Popham, and Miss Florence Parkhouse, of Cornmarket-street. Both are widely known in the Torrington district.

Torrington traders have voted to change early-closing day from Thursday to Wednesday, beginning in the first week of May.

Torrington Guardians considered a resolution from the Barrow-in-Furness Board to the effect that no destitute man who fought in the late war should be forced to appeal for Poor-law assistance, but should be special charge upon the nation, and calling upon the Government to lay before Parliament the number of ex-Service men in Mental Hospitals who are chargeable to local rates and the numbers of ex-Service men and dependants receiving out-relief.

Another old and respected Torringtonian has passed away – John Parr, at the age of 74 years. Rev Preb F Emlyn Jones officiated. The bearer were Messrs J and G Gilbert, W and G Stacey, W Baker and L Braunton.

A very pretty wedding was solemnised at Weare Gifford Church by the rector, Rev H Moyses. The contracting parties were Mr E F Clements and Miss R Start. Mr Clements, who is clerk at Messrs R Blackmore & Sons, Bideford, served with the 2nd Devon, and M.G.C. Miss Start for many years was with the late Judge Beresford, of the Hall, Weare Gifford.

Moore’s Rooms at Weare Gifford, the scene of many a good tea-fight, presented a lively appearance when a whist drive and dance, in aid of the usual hard-up Annery Rovers took place. The rooms were tastefully decorated and ....

Mutual animosity between Phoebe Sanders of Ashridge, Westleigh and Betsy Holland, of Matthew Mills, Alverdiscott.

The Café Royal at Westward Ho! is for sale through R Blackmore & Sons. It comprises a main hall, balcony, cloakrooms, and lavatories fitted with slot machines and having entrances from the interior. There are also rear store rooms, a large gas stove and ample washing up sinks as well as parking for cars. Included in the sale is a good supply of chairs and tables. The main hall seats 100 people with 60 more accommodated on the balcony.

We regret to announce the death of Mr Frederick R Bragg, late of Penkenna, Westward Ho! which took place at the residence of his sister at Barnstaple. Although Mr Bragg had been in very ill health for some while before his death, the end came all too quickly.

Miss Grant, of The Fern Street School Settlement, Bromley-by-Bow, London, and Miss Medlecott, hon. secretary of the Children’s Cottage Hospital, Shedfield, Hants, wish to convey their sincere thanks to all those in Westward Ho! who through Miss Ellis, Mrs L M Nicholls (Seadrift) and many other kind friends have been able again to send large parcels of clothes, toys, games, etc. and which have given untold pleasures and help to both these excellent causes which are doing so much for the children in both London and Portsmouth districts.

The funeral has taken place at Winkleigh of Mr Jonathan Short of Westwood Farm.

At Bideford County Sessions Mrs Norah Ann Andrew, of Cranford Farm, Woolsery, was summoned for allowing cattle to stray on the highway. PS Warren said he found five of Mr Andrew’s bullocks straying on the highway at Cranford Cross, half a mile away from the farm. Mrs Andrew, who wrote that the gates of the fields opened on to the highway, and that the cows must have broken out was fined 3s.

Thomas Short, engine driver, of Woolsery, who had been working at Winkleigh was at Bideford Borough Sessions fined 3s for riding a bicycle without a light near Moreton Lodge. PS Worren said defendant told him he had a puncture which made him late. He had nine miles still to go.

Feb 1974

Some of the local girl footballers who are competing for the title of North Devon Soccer Personality Girl. With the title does a prize valued at £10. The occasion is the first annual dinner of the Legs Eleven ladies’ FC of Appledore, at the Westward Ho! Holiday Centre. An attendance of 450 is expected. In the picture are Barbara Riley, Liz Lawrence, Diane Moore, Rosalind Smale, Christine Hale, Janet Pearson, Liz Stanbury, Anne Powe. Another entrant, Juliet John, was unable to be present when the photograph was taken. Later in the month it was reported that Mrs Christine Hale, an Appledore hairdresser who plays centre half for the Bell Bombers is North Devon’s first Soccer Personality Girl.

There are eight darts players in this picture, but how many relationships? According to one reckoning there are 25 – two sisters, three brothers, two husbands, two wives, three brothers-in-law, four sisters-in-law, one mother, one daughter, one niece, three aunts and three uncles. On looking at it another way there could be 56. Doug and Jack Bale each have two brothers, two sisters, a wife, a sister-in-law and a niece; Ted Bale has two brothers, two sisters, two sisters-in-law and a niece; Mrs Winnie Bailey has three brothers, a sister, two sisters-in-law and a niece; Mrs Henrietta Brennan has three brothers, a sister, two sisters-in-law and a daughter; Mrs Gillian Bale and Mrs Jean Bale each have a husband, two brothers-in-law, three sisters-in-law and a niece; and Elizabeth Brennan has a mother, three uncles and three aunts.

The Golden Hinde, the full-sized replica of Drake’s historic ship which was built at Appledore is leaving Devon in April. She will sail from Dartmouth, where she is being refitted, to London and will spend six months moored in the Thames at Tower Pier. Then in September, a year later than planned, she will sail to San Francisco.

Thirty local cowboys are busy looking for their own spread, a place where they can hang up their guns for a while and relax to the sound of music, Western style. For nearly two years they have been on the trail, meeting lonely at monthly ho-downs in local village halls. What they are looking for is a hall where they can listen to their music, hold a dance, and perhaps have a saloon not more than a gunshot away to provide liquor. Until then Sheriff Mason is happy to rub shoulders with the Sundance Kid – he’s Bideford bricklayer Mike Weakley – the Cisco Kid and other desperadoes.

Believed to be the first of its kind in Bideford was a class for ‘expectant’ fathers held at the Health Centre. It has been introduced as part of the regular weekly ante-natal clinic run by the district midwives. It means expectant mums can bring along their husbands to a class at which they can share in a talk and discussion about prospective parenthood.

A gold badge for having given 50 pints of his blood is presented to Mr Jack Sinclair at a blood-transfusion service session at Bideford. Mr Sinclair, who lives at Geneva Place, is caretaker of Bideford County Secondary School and is a former Scoutmaster. In the picture, the Mayor of Bideford, Major E Hill, is seen presenting the badge. In Red Cross uniform are Miss D Thomas, Miss P Durant and Miss P Gammon.

In this plan of the proposed new Bideford Comprehensive School the new first year block is shown in the centre foreground. Behind this block is the new science block which will be joined by a high level corridor to the proposed creative arts block. Seen in the picture immediately above this building is the gymnasium and a classroom block of the present school. On the extreme left is the new general teaching block which is planned and opposite the present Abbotsham Road school entrance at the top of the plan is the new administration block.

A new 71ft lifeboat which should be slipping into the River Torridge this month will almost certainly be stationed at Clovelly when she becomes operational. The new craft has been built at Bideford Shipyard Ltd. She will be followed by four more lifeboats, this time of the 44ft variety, in another RNLI order which will take until 1975 to complete.

When Bideford Methodist Circuit Youth held a ‘Teeny Boppers’ evening at Northam, around 100 people enjoyed games, a mini-social buffet supper, a sing-along and a magician. Arrangements were made by the Rev Peter Willis and a sub-committee of leaders and young people. Games were supervised by Messrs Eddie Moore, John Dennis and Tom Headon. The mini-social was organised by Messrs Trevor Mills, David Blight and Colin Priest, and Mrs Redmore as their helper. Mesdames D Reed, E Moore and Grant, and the Misses M Yeo and W Elliott served the buffet supper. The entertaining magician was Mr Roy Van-Dyke.

The hopes of Bucks Mills sewerage scheme opponents that the Ombudsman would intervene in their fight with Bideford Rural Council who are going ahead with a plan to discharge crude sewage into the sea have been dashed.

No objection is being raised by Bideford Rural Council to an application by the Clovelly Estate Company for a licence to fell three small clumps of trees – 27 trees in all. The decision is subject to the estate company replanting with hardwoods and a conifer nurse crop, which they had indicated they were prepared to do. The company say they have been advised that the trees have become a potential danger to road users. The trees are sited near the old laundry and Court Farm; northwest of the sewage disposal works; and north of the county road opposite Underdown.

PC Bernard Aust, 24 year old son of Mr and Mrs F G Aust, of Higher Clovelly Post Office, was presented with the George Medal by Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother at a Buckingham Palace investiture. Mr Aust, now a policeman in Australia, won the award for bravery when tackling an armed terrorist in Sydney in February 1972.

Winners in a Don match held at Hartland in aid of hospital funds were: Mrs M O’Donnell, Mrs E Cook, Mrs Allin, Mr T Squires, Mrs Turner, Mr W Turner, Mrs Jeffery and Mr J Colwill. Draw winners were S Walter, E Harris, J Heard and T Beer. A jumble sale was held, followed by a bingo session, for the same cause.

Guard of honour at Hartland for Mr Arthur George of Downe Farm.

The Imperial Service Medal has been presented to Mr William Tape of Seaview, Hartland.

Hartland Parish Council have had an electric shock. It came in a bill from the South Western Electricity Board who installed two extra street lights in the parish. The price quoted was £23, work was completed last May, and the bill arrived in December. It was for £67. Now the council are waiting for the board to justify a near 300 per cent increase.

Northam and District Men’s Forum, founded in January 1972, has enrolled its 100th member. Prior to the annual meeting an amusing ‘talk at random’ was given by a member, Mr W J Davis. The president, Rev Maurice Hart, presided over an attendance of 86. The following was elected as officers – Rev Maurice Hart, Mr John H Williams, Mr Ernest J Lashbrook, Messrs Alex Munro-Chick, John Pilling, Percy Reed, William J Hook, Norman Alston, John French, Aubrey Hill, Rupert Hill, George Miles, Bert Reed, Charles Gale and James Jennings.

One of a line of trees at Lundy View, Northam, that residents have been trying since July 1971, to get the permission of Northam Urban Council to lop, fell across the roof of the home of one of the campaigners. The sole occupant, Mrs Ellen Richards, was unhurt. Fortunately the fallen tree had been further from her home than others so that only the top fell on the roof and only slight damage was caused.

A muffled peal was rung at the funeral at St James’ church, Parkham, of former bellringer Mr Reuben Yarde, of Longclose, Parkham.

St James’ Church, Parkham, was packed to capacity for the funeral of Mrs Hilda Metherell, of the Village, Parkham. The Rector, Rev Trevor Nicholls, conducted the service and Miss A Lott was at the organ.

Feb 1974 Parkham Metherell funeral

Parkham Women’s Institute, thought to be the oldest organisation of its kind in the Torridge district, celebrated its 50th birthday with a special party at which a cake was cut by Mrs W Pridham, who was a founder member, and Mrs A Daniel, the longest active member with 48 years’ service to her credit. The cake had been made and decorated by Mrs E Lang. Following a sit-down meal, Mr and Mrs Trapnell, from Bideford, organised country dancing.

In the picture the Parkham WI president, Mrs George, is seen with four former holders of the office – Mrs Tucker, Mrs Lynn, Mrs Williams and Mrs Dunn.

Known as Sceaft Beara in 1050 and Sepesberia in the Domesday Book, Shebbear has had its name spelt in at least seven different ways over the centuries. Devon County Council have found yet another variation for 1974!

Parents of children who will be attending Torrington Comprehensive School have had the opportunity to discuss future education prospects with Mr Don Howard, headmaster. One of the most asked questions was whether their children would have the same opportunities at the comprehensive. “And the answer I give is a very firm yes,” said Mr Howard. A series of meetings has been planned to explain present and future developments to parents not only of children living in the town but also the rural parishes which will help boost the school’s numbers from its present 550 to about 800 by 1975.

A sister and brother will take leading parts in this year’s May Queen ceremony. Chosen by vote of fellow pupils at the Blue Coat School, the Queen will be Louise Ashton, of 200 New Street, Torrington. Her brother Jonathan will be one of the heralds. The other is Neil Cockwill, whose home is Bellair, School Lane. Naomi Harland of South Street, Torrington has been chosen crowner. The attendants will be: Teresa Bealey, Jane Goosetry, Joanne Luxton, Sara Maddock, Deborah Martin, Meg Matthews, Deborah Pullen, Tyrian Shorters.

A request by Torrington Town Council for financial help towards the cost of the conversion of the Drill hall into an entertainment centre has been turned down by Torrington Rural Council.

In light of the Government’s circular on cuts in local government spending, Torrington Town Council vigorously defended their decision to go ahead with the town’s £75,000 swimming pool scheme. They had the money, thanks to businesslike forbears, and were they going to throw it way and not reap the benefit? asked Cllr J W Martin. The scheme was not something that had been suddenly sprung. Had it not been for a chapter of misfortune they could have had the pool by now.

Later in the month…

Two brothers, Londoners Reg and Bert Ruthen, are steward and assistance steward respectively of the Royal North Devon Golf Club. Such a combination could be something of a record for golf clubs; certainly it is for the RND, although the Westward Ho! club has a tradition of family service. First there were father and son Bryant and Philip Andrews, who followed each other as steward; then Granville Kelly who had completed 51 years’ service with the club on his retirement 11 years ago, was followed as steward by his son Sidney.

February 1999

The village church of St Helen’s at Abbotsham is preparing to become a focal point for local millennium celebrations, with four events already planned. Bangers and beans were on the menu at Abbotsham Parish Hall when members of the Parish Church of St Helen’s put on a We’ll Meet Again night to celebrate the forthcoming millennium. It was a chance for many to dress up in 1940s fashions.

Peelers Cottage, Appledore, for sale. It was originally a malthouse and then turned into a police house in 1845 under the order of the local magistrate. Many of the original police house features have been retained.

Church leaders in Bideford are seeking a meeting with district council representatives in a bid to save their local car park from closure. Councillors drew back from a recommendation to close the free riverside car park at Clarence Wharf, the only council car park at East-the-Water. But it comes up again for deliberation. Nearby Bethel Church has now entered the debate, expressing its concern in a letter to committee chairman Cllr Bill Brook. No other recognised car parking existed in East-the-Water said church secretary Graham Pyke.

Pupils at Grenville College Junior School in Bideford are giving the birds a helping hand. They have been busy making bird boxes in time for the nesting season as part of their practical work in craft, design and technology. Wood for the project has been provided free by Rawle Gammon and Baker’s Chapleton Sawmills near Umberleigh.

Seven teams contested the Bideford Rotary Club’s Youth Speaks competition in the library of Grenville College. This is always a lively contest in which teams of three students present short talks in competition form on a diverse range of subjects. Grenville College was (just) the best in the junior section, Bideford College won the intermediate section, and the senior section was a close run thing between Bideford College and an Edgehill team.

The picture shows Jessica Lobbett, Amalia King, Stephanie Rolfe with Alan Glover and Brian Sims

Vikings are going on the march again. This time it will be a young invading force from Grenville College in Bideford, here pupils are studying the history of the Viking period. The pupils are busy making Viking costumes before following the invasion route taken by Hubba the Dane from Skern at Appledore to Godborough Hill and his subsequent defeat by the Saxons. Helping to put more colour into their history lessons was the unexpected appearance in class of Knights of Devonia member Chris Jewell in full Viking regalia.

Staff at New Look in the High Street, Bideford, went back to the Stone Age for a special day of fundraising.

Picture shows Tracey Crump, Natalie Hill, Anna Braund, Jenny Rayner and Charlotte Dinen

A new Bideford model agency is opening. Launched in the town’s Stallones nightclub the Freelance Model Agency has been set up by freelance photographer Brian Saunders.

Our picture shows Freelance models Richard French, Tara Nicholls, Simone Solomon and Brad Randen

Buy your carpet from John Rockey, Atlantic Interiors 98, 2 Grenville Street, Bideford.

Praise for boys who saved sheep. Harry Chambers, his cousins Timmy and Andrew King, and their friend Adam Lloyd had been fishing by the River Taw at Fremington and as they made their way back home they saw sheep struggling in thick, black mud. Harry ran to find help, and the other boys used hands, feet, and sticks in an effort to get the animals onto dry ground. The weight of the frantic sheep in their heavy fleeces was almost more than a match for the youngsters but they carried on trying. Harry by this time had alerted his grandfather Paul Chambers and he joined the rescue efforts. The RSPCA were called. One sheep was saved and there were some proud family grownups, too. Said Andrew and Timmy’s mum, Tracey “They certainly got plastered. But that’s typical. They’s always in the mud somewhere!”

Mountain biker Paul Sanders is back in North Devon after completing one of the toughest challenges of his life. Paul and two friends have just completed a cycle ride right across Spain, from Santander in the north to the Rock of Gibraltar, and back! The works manager of the Clone Zone at the Milky Way adventure park at Clovelly was joined by Hartland pair Terry Witney and Alex Duncan on the 1,515 mile marathon. Between them their efforts have raised almost £1,000 in sponsorship for the British Heart Foundation.

Detached family home for sale in Littleham.

The Atlantic rollers which pound and transform North Devon’s coastline provide the inspiration behind the works of Northam sculptor Barry Hughes which go on show at The Plough, Torrington. A retired art and design teacher, Barry has utilised not only the images of the coastline but also some of its flotsam and jetsum – recurving ancient baulks of wood brought ashore by the tides.

The Princess Royal paid a private visit to Saunders House, Northam, after she officially opened it five years ago. A small crowd braved cold winds to await Princess Anne’s arrival.

Darts players at the Bell Inn at Parkham hit a £5,000 jackpot with their charity fundraising. The money will be divided between Devon Air Ambulance and CLIC. Members of the Bell Beer Monsters darts team Sam Beer, Roger Honey, Jason Lang, Bob Hutchings, Simon Schubert, Ian Glover, Andrew Cann, and Philip Dack were joined by landlord Brian Adams in a mass sponsored headshave. With hairdressers Judith Luxton and Leslie Bennett were kept busy snipping, local auctioneers John Brookes and Lester Bird sold off a variety of goods and gifts donated by local people.

Torrington residents offered blooming good deal.

Good Neighbour of the Year, Dolly James, of New Street, Torrington with Judy Gardner who nominated her for the award. Dolly won a trophy and a dinner-for-four prize.

Former Torrington School pupil Paul Morey has found a new friend during a six-week spell in Belize with the Army – a boa constrictor. Paul lives in Torrington, where his mother, Carol, is eagerly awaiting his return.

Gifts to the community by generous benefactors of Torrington, some dating back to the days of Henry VIII, are still providing benefits for the town. Administered by the Town Lands Charity they provide annual grants to local causes. This year just over £28,000 is being distributed in this way.

British archery champion Andrew Newcombe has made a successful return to the butts. Andrew, from Westward Ho!, came second with the longbow in a shoot held by the National Field Archery Society. In recent years hundreds have been introduced to the sport through Andrew’s tuition at the Milky Way Adventure Park at Clovelly where he runs an archery centre. Now he is planning to start a new archery club, the Milky Way Bowmen.

Substantial Victorian residence for sale in Westward Ho!

A wealth of local talent attracted a packed house to The Anchor in Westward Ho! for the grand final of the nightspot’s annual talent competition. Performers ranged widely in age and style, but all gained a tremendous reception and an acknowledgement from the landlord Dave Sykes of a particularly high standard this year. Victory went to the youth with the teenage band Surge of Yelland. Second place went to seasoned campaigner Abe of Bideford and third to young modern ballad singer Sian.

Individually designed property for sale at Woolsery.

There were howls of delight in a Yelland household after a remarkable success in the biggest event on Britain’s sled dog racing calendar. Andrew Thomson and his Siberian huskies, Spirit and Tegra, made a speedy impact at the premier event of the season in Aviemore, Scotland, and were among 65 entries in the two-dog section. The Yelland racers finished fifth. Ivan Passmore of Torrington, and his Eskimo dogs, Pepsi and Katy, took fourth place.