100 Years Ago

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.

Christmas 1943

Life during World War II

The war continues but what else was in the news at this time?

December 7, 1943

News has reached Mr and Mrs A C Bowden, Terminus Inn, Bideford, that their son, Trpr John Bowden, who was taken prisoner of war in the battle of Tobruk by the Italians has now been taken to a Prisoner of War Camp in Germany.

Much sympathy is extended to his young wife and to Mr and Mrs P F Burbridge, of Bradbourne House, Appledore, in their anxiety following intimation that they son, Flight-Lieut Peter Burbridge, RAF, is ‘missing; from recent operations over enemy territory. He is an Old Boy of Bideford Grammar School and married Miss Oldknow of Lichfield. His elder brother, William, is serving with the Eighth Army.

On leave – the following local men have been home on short leave: A B Arthur Pickett, RN, elder son of Mr and Mrs F A Pickett, Underdown; Drvr Fred Robins, RA, husband of Mrs F Robins, Mount Pleasant; Gunr Charles Pengilly RA, youngest son of Mr and Mrs W H Pengilly, Wrinkleberry; Miss Mary Abbott NAAFI, third daughter of Mr and Mrs Oscar Abbott, High Street, Clovelly, has also been home on leave.

Capt W J Harris of Fernlea, Appledore, who has been engaged on convoy work throughout the war, was awarded the OBE for gallantry about twelve months ago but was away at sea. Recently he returned home and was able to go to London accompanied by his wife and daughter to receive the award at the hands of the King. Capt Harris is the grandson of the late Mr P K Harris, shipbuilder.

Two former colleagues of a North Devon Territorial Battalion of the Devonshire Regiment, and who were at Bideford Grammar School together, have recently had a happy reunion. They are Capt Kenneth Rowland Gray with the 16th Punjab Regiment, younger son of Mr and Mrs F R Gray, of 11 Park Avenue, and Officer Cadet Eric Carter, only son of Mr and Mrs J Carter of St Jean, Old Barnstaple Road. India was their meeting place. Both are keen readers of the Bideford Gazette.

Births – Coates – to Lilian, wife of A J Coates, a daughter; Fulford – at Aysha, Westward Ho! to Barbara (nee Wear0, wife of Lieut J U Fulford, a son, Jonathan Underhill; Heywood – at Kilmorie, Northam, to Kathleen, wife of Flying Officer S G Heywood, a son; Johns – to Betty (nee Souch), of Flaxmans, Parkham, wife of W S Johns, RAF, a son; Lindsey – to Dorothy (nee Davis), wife of Corpl N Lindsey, RAF, a son, Jeffery; Norman – at Haere-Mai, to Edyth, wife of D Norman, Clonbur, Westward Ho! a sister for Seymour, Sandra Loreley; to Mr and Mrs T J Pester, a son, brother for David; Withecombe – to Margaret (nee Bailey), wife of Leonard Withecombe, a son, David Ernest.

This year the strain on the Post Office will be unusually severe. The Department has lost more of its trained staff for service with the Forces and the reserves of labour, transport and accommodation which would normally be available have been depleted in the interests of the national war effort.

Fuel supplies to controlled premises are fixed.

Staff-Lieut J A Meek and Pte C White thank the good folks at home in the village of Abbotsham for the Christmas box.

An organist is wanted for Abbotsham Church after Christmas. Apply Vicar.

The wedding was solemnised at the Alminstone Methodist Church between Miss Kathleen Stevens and Pte Thomas Cann. The bride is the youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs A Stevens of Ashmansworthy Farm, Woolsery, and the bridegroom has recently returned from more than three years’ service overseas. He is the younger son of the late Mr and Mrs John Cann of Worden Farm, Bradworthy. The bride placed her bouquet on her brother’s grave in the churchyard at Woolsery West.

At Alwington Methodist Chapel the wedding has taken place of Mr Hedley Parsons, eldest son of Mr and Mrs C Parsons, of Woodtown, Fairy Cross, and Miss Jessie Rout, late of Croydon, the daughter of Mr and Mrs C H Bicker. The bride was given away by Mrs Bailey, Miss J Squires and two little girls were bridesmaids.

The Vicar of Appledore, the Rev H C A S Muller, has had the sad experience of being associated with six funerals on six consecutive days. The Vicar cannot recall such an occurrence in the whole of his forty-tow years in the Ministry.

Flag decorations across the road greeted Mr Kenneth Stevens, of Newhaven, and Miss Lilian Doris Staines, after their wedding at the Congregational Church, Appledore. The bride is the elder daughter of Mr and Mrs George Staines, of New Quay, Appledore. The Rev R W Mould officiated. Mr J U Empringham discharged the duties of best man. Master David Jones presented the bride with a lucky silver horseshoe. The bride’s bouquet was later placed on the grave of Mrs Maria Harding.

Believed to be the largest sum ever raised for a good cause by Bideford and district at one time, a total of over £5,000 has resulted from the recent appeal on behalf of the Merchant Navy Comforts Service.

Films being shown at the Palace, Bideford.

On Tuesday evening fireguards throughout the Bideford and Northam area had a regional test exercise, the object being to test the communications under the new plan. The Regional Fireguard Officer, Mr Spear, and the Fireguard Officer, Mr E Thomason, made a tour of the whole of the combined area during the course of the exercise, which was held in conjunction with the NFS. Fireguards turned out in good strength. The new fire station East-the-Water and the NFS mobilising point at Northam were both in operation. The exercise was ably umpired by the Wardens’ Service.

A fine of 30s was imposed on Leonard Short of Bridgeland Street, Bideford, in respect of an infringement of the black-out.

Well known in Clovelly and Northam districts and a senior member of the local branch of the Ancient Order of Foresters, Mr Frederick James Steer, of Kimberley Terrace, Northam, has died. The funeral took place at Northam Parish Church with Rev H P D Pinhey officiating. The third son of the late Mr and Mrs Thomas Steer, of Bucks Mills, Mr Steer served an apprenticeship as a mason with Messrs Jewell of Clovelly, and for several years was attached to the staff at Clovelly Court. He subsequently settled at Northam where he carried on his work as a master mason. He was a keen and prize winning horticulturist. He married Miss Elizabeth Greenslade and two sons survive – Mr William Steer and Mr John Steer, and one daughter, Miss Jane Steer.

Hartland Home Guard held an invitation whist drive for all ranks and their lady friends in the Church Hall. Ample refreshments were provided, and an excellent time had by all. Prize winners: Mrs Chuter, Miss Ivy Beer, Miss G Shepherd, Mrs D Prouse, Pte G Rooke, Sergt E Heard, Pte J Fulford, Pte W J Walter. Sergt A J Loughlin acted as MC.

Much sympathy was shown at the funeral of Mr Henry John Richards, Cross Street, Northam, who passed away after a brief illness,aged 41 years. Son of Mr Harry Richards, of Church Walk, Bideford, he was engaged on reconstruction work away arising from a recent raid, when sudden illness overtook him.

A thatched cottage at Lower Dundridge, Parkham, is to be sold.

The funeral took place at Parkham of Mr William Henry Elston who was for many years employed by Mr W H Rogers, formerly of Orleigh Court, Buckland Brewer. Rev A J Jefferies officiated at the service.

December 14, 1943

Acting Flight-Lieutenant Frank Burbridge, who is reported missing, has been awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.

The name of Flight-Sergeant George Bradford, eldest son of Mr and Mrs C G Bradford, The Square, Northam, has been mentioned in despatches in recognition of his service with the RAF.

Able Seaman Kenneth Davis, young son of Mr W Davis and the late Mrs Davis, of Avon Road, Bideford, has been mentioned in despatches for a second time. His first mention was for Russian convoy services, the second for services in the Mediterranean zone. On both occasions he was aboard the same destroyer. He served his apprenticeship as a printer with the Bideford Gazette Ltd.

Mr Eric Braund, whose parents live at the Quay, Clovelly, is home for a few hours.

Clovelly men recently home on leave have included: Petty Officer Lewis Pengilly, RN, son of Mr and Mrs Pengilly of Wrinkleberry; Pte J W Willcocks, RAMC, son-in-law of Mr and Mrs D Cook, Sierra, Higher Clovelly; Drvr Mec John Searles, S/L, RA, son-in-law of Mr and Mrs James Cruse, has spent a short leave at the Retreat, Higher Clovelly.

Major Desmond Valentine RAMC, in practice at Appledore before the war and who went to India in 1940, has been promoted and is in charge of a hospital with 400 beds. Dr Desmond Valentine is a brother of Lieut-Col A W Valentine, who while commanding a battalion of the Devonshire Regiment in Sicily won the DSO.

Owing to an attack of influenza the King was unable to attend the recent Investiture at Buckingham Palace and the Duke of Gloucester officiated. Among those invested with the DSO was Maj Henry Bazeley, Royal Artillery, the only son of Mrs Bazeley of Weare Giffard and the late Mr H R Bazeley. An uncle of Maj Bazeley is Lieut-Col W N Bazeley, of the firm Bazeley, Barnes and Bazeley solicitors of Bideford.

Mrs Ackland, of Old Town, Bideford has recently received this photograph of her wson, Sergt Cecil Ackland whose wife and two sons live at Landcross. Prior to the war he worked for Mr Owen Richards of The Downes, Monkleigh.

Among those who attended a recent investiture was Capt Jackson Page, of the 8th Battalion of the Devon HG, and a master at Shebbear College, who received the MBE in recognition of his services to the Home Guard.

From a General Hospital in the Central Mediterranean zone to which he is attached as a member of the RAMC, Pte F Shortridge has written to the Editor saying how, as a “New Street lad” from Bideford, he was proud to see what a grand turn-out the Street had for Wings for Victory and other local war efforts.

After 12 months probationary formation, during which time they have certainly not been idle, having assisted at the Methodist pleasant hour for troops, been very helpful at the picture shows at Bridge Street and raised £32 at the fete for the Merchant Navy, the Bideford Toc H Women’s Section has now been recognised officially and become a Group. Bideford has the distinction of having the first group in North Devon, in fact this is the first group this side of Exeter.

Births: at Chudleigh Avenue, to Dorothy (nee Lane), wife of Sergt F Bartlett RAF, a daughter, Angela Jean; to Mr and Mrs S T Holloway, Lime Grove, a daughter; to Ida (nee Bromell), wife of Alan F Poyser, a daughter, Jane; to Helena (nee Davis), wife of James Shugar, a son, Brian James; at Babeleigh Barton, Parkham, to Margaret, wife of Sidney J Tucker, a daughter; at Royston Road, to Betty (nee Tuplin), wife of R D Whitefield, a daughter, Laurinah.

At the Congregational Church, Appledore, the wedding took place of Mr W Godbold, of Lowestoft, and Miss Ella Prout, only daughter of Mrs N Prout and the late Capt E Prout of Oakville, Market Street. The reception was held at the Brigade Hall, where about 50 guests were entertained, and there were over 50 presents. Later the happy couple left for Kings Lynn where the honeymoon was spent.

The funeral of Miss Margaret Smallridge, aged 85, of Irsha Street, Appledore, took place at St Margaret’s Church, Northam. Miss Smallridge was buried in the grave of her parents, the late Coxswain James Harvey Smallridge and Mrs Smallridge, of whom she was the third daughter. Her illness is understood to have been brought about as a result of blitz effects.

At St Mary’s Church, Bideford, the wedding took place of Sapper Kenneth Miller, RE, and Miss Phyllis Dark, second daughter of Mr and Mrs A J Dark, of Sentry Corner. The Rector of Bideford, Preb Manning, officiated.

Films being shown at the Strand Cinema, Bideford.

Anglo-American Christmas House Party.

For having wireless sets without licences, fines of 30s each were imposed by Bideford Borough Bench on Frederick Preston Luke, of Buttgarden Street, and Jane Potter, of Meddon Street. Mr F F Annear appearing on behalf of the Postmaster General mentioned that when it became known a Post Office test was being taken 71 licences were taken out immediately in Bideford.

Sudbury’s Gloves Ltd have organised a special dance of old and new fashion dances, to be held at the Church Institute. All proceeds are to be given to the Bideford Fanciers Society and various other charities.

The funeral has taken place of Mr Frederick R Jewell, of Hart Street, Bideford. Mr Jewell was a native of Bradworthy. The Rev R Y Stone officiated. The widow, Mrs W Turner and Miss E Jewell, daughter, were prevented from attending through indisposition, and his son, Drvr G Jewell and grandsons, PI Bliman, Flying Officer J Butler, Gunr R Butler and L/Bomber F Butler who are on active service, were unavoidably absent.

The wedding took place at St Nectan’s Church, Hartland, of Mr Guy Bloomer of Nottingham, and Miss Edna Leigh, only daughter of Mr Reginald and the late Mrs Leigh. Rev Philip P Leigh AKC (brother of the bride) officiated and Rev Gregory gave the Blessing and administered Holy Communion. A reception was held at Stowford Cottage, the home of the bride.

When a Bideford Gazette representative visited Mr and Mrs C Marshall of Wyltowyn, Landcross, he was the first to bring them the good news that their second son, Sergeant Reginald Leslie Marshall (since commissioned as Pilot Officer) had been awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal for gallantry and devotion to duty. Aged 33 he is married and has a son. His wife was formerly a nurse at Bideford Hospital and is now a member of the Civil Nursing Reserve. Pilot Officer Marshall is expected home on leave for Christmas. Another son, Acting Sergt Frederick Marshall is serving with the RAF, and there are two daughters, Edith and Madeline, Red Cross nurses, and a sister-in-law in the ATS. His brother Able Seaman William Marshall, the eldest son, was among those on HMS Dorsetshire who lost their lives when she was sunk.

The funeral of Mrs Selina Fursman, wife of Mr James Fursman, of Holland House, Torrington, took place at the parish Church of St Stephens-by-Saltash. Mrs Fursman passed away peacefully at the residence of her daughter. Messrs J R Bassett, F Poad, W Hunt and J E Coaker, friends of the deceased were bearers.

The splendid sum of £89 6s 9d was the result of the Poppy Day effort in Torrington and District this year, being an increase of £16 10s 7d over last year’s total. The organiser, Mr D Dyer and Mr R Hodge (chairman) of the local branch of the British Legion, express their deepest thanks to the lady collectors and to all those who so generously gave.

The funeral of Mrs Emily Dayman, widow of Mr F J Dayman, took place at Torrington. The service was held in the Parish Church, the vicar, Rev C J Barker, and Rev E Eliot, officiating.

At Westleigh, a whist drive, organised by Mr and Mrs M J Pearse, took place in the Hut in aid of the National Institute for the Blind. Prizes were presented by Mrs Figgess to Miss Steer, Mrs Hicks, Mr J Figgess, Mrs May, Miss McGrath. Mr Pearse was MC. The sum of £10 14s was raised.

December 21, 1943

OBE for Lieutenant Rupert Sausemarey Carey

In the year to come there will be many a story of the present war to be handed down with seafaring traditions locally. One concerns the part played by once freightless ketches and other auxiliary sailing craft lying in the estuary, of how military units were held up for 1,500 tons of cement from Barry, with the railway too congested to bring it and no shipping tonnage available. Mr D Merefield Capt J H Hobbs (Harbour master at Appledore) met the authorities with “We’ll find the shipping” and in a short space of time at Bideford, Fremington and Ilfracombe harbour at low tide, the cement was being safely and promptly discharged. So much for little ships of sail that have adorned our North Devon harbours for so long.

In the brilliant sunshine, but with the threatening rain clouds scudding over the mountain tops, an officer and three men set off on patrol. Their commission was to find out if the enemy still occupied a village beyond the next range of hills. All went well for the first 2 hours. With only a small hillock between them and their goal they took a last ‘breather’. “Quite involuntarily we all dropped in our tracks for running footsteps could be heard. Then to our utter amazement a Jerry came into view. He was running half across our path and as suddenly as he appeared, he disappeared behind a clump of trees. There was the sound of voices. This needed investigating and we discovered that we had passed 50 yards of an enemy mortar position.” And that night, too, Capt J R Strick, of Abbotsham Court, Bideford…

The officers and men of the Appledore Home Guard have sent a Christmas gift of 5s to each of the 33 former members of the Company serving in HM Forces. Many of them are serving in the Navy and a good proportion are overseas.

Births: to Barbara, wife of Leonard Merson, a daughter, Angela Marguerite; at 1 Clifton Street, Bideford, to Edith (nee Battison), wife of W T Raymond, RN, a son, George Ernest, a brother for Billie.

Engagements: Ellis-Jukes – Corpl James Ellice, BCMF, and Mary; Jenkins-Scoynes – Pte Mark Jenkins, RAOC, and Doris May, of Little Ashridge, Horwood.

Films being shown at the Gaiety Cinema, Appledore.

Miss Eliza Jane Heal, whose death has occurred at the age of 74, will be much missed by many friends. She was formerly employed by the late Rev G P Scholey, and also the late Mr P K Harris. The funeral took place at St Mary’s Church, Appledore.

“If there is any bigger ramp in the country than this question of the National Fire Service I should like to know it, and it is about time something was done to stop this absolutely needless expenditure, in this town at least” said Cllr T Burton. The discussion arose when Cllr W H Chubb having questioned a statement made at a previous meeting that fire-watching cost £40 a night, the Town Clerk, Mr F C Backway, said the cost was about £100 per week. Arising out of Cllr Burton’s comment, the Town Clerk pointed out that the NFS was a different matter to fire-watching, who were only carrying out the orders of the Home Office.

Miss Gertrude E Daymond is appointed new Matron of Bideford Hospital.

Wanted – boy or girl for office work, apply in writing, stating age and salary required, to the secretary, A O Foresters Friendly Society, Bridge Chambers, Bideford.

Wanted general maid, also young girl to assist in shop. Apply Friendship, Market Place, Bideford.

Furnished rooms to let (adults only). Apply by letter to Mrs Keen, Marine Gardens, Bideford.

British Restaurants.

Potatoes for Sale, finest quality, up-to-dates and Field Mashalls, 7s 6d per cwt. delivered at Bideford. Apply to J S Ashton, Thorne Dairy, Buckland Brewer.

Miscellaneous adverts.

Among the students of the West Bank Girl’s School, Bideford, who have successfully passed the Cambridge Certificate Examination, is Miss Ruth Hilton, daughter of Mr and Mrs James C Hilton, East Dyke, Higher Clovelly. Congratulations!

Bideford Rural District Council discuss food items at their meeting where it’s stated that there are only 2 bakers, both based in Hartland.

Organised by Mr Charles Perham, Clovelly, an enthusiastic and energetic member of the Committee, a very enjoyable and successful social, in aid of the Parish Hall Construction Fund, was held at the Council School. The total proceeds amounted to £15 11s.

The funeral of Mrs Maud Louisa Lovett, of Yelland Manor, Fremington, took place. Mrs Lovett was the widow of Mr Frank A Lovett, of Newport, Salop, and the eldest daughter of the late John and Emily Woodrow, of Davenham. She was born at Knole Park, Sevenoaks, Kent, where her father was at that time head gamekeeper. She leaves a son who is warrant officer in the RAF in Canada. Mrs Lovett had lived in North Devon for the past thirteen years and resided for a time at Portledge, Fairy Cross before moving to Fremington. She had a very lovable disposition, and was kind and willing to help in anything connected wit the Women’s Institute and the Church.

At the recent examination of the London College of Music, held at Nickline, Barnstaple, the following candidates were successful: Margaret Davey, Gwendoline Feer, Doris Johns, Beryle Stacey, Marion Bennett, Margaret Copp, Margaret Alexander, Patricia Parkhouse. They are pupils of Mrs A Popham, 6 Halsdon Terrace, Torrington.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Torrington, Mr and Mrs B G Lampard-Vachell, offer seasonal greetings.

A whist drive is held at Woolsery in aid of the National Institute for the Blind.

December 29, 1943

This fifth New Year of war will find nearly every British family with at least one of its members separated by the pressing demands of war. Yet there is a chain which binds family and friends together, forged of paper but stronger than steel. We can be thankful that, in spite of difficulties and disappointments, letters have been delivered to every corner of the world throughout four years of war. Let us make every more strong these blessed ties that bind human hearts together.

“They are not as clean as they might be,” remarked Cllr W H Chubb when making a suggestion that the public air raid shelters should be fitted with gates in order to keep out dogs, etc. He had been surprised at the condition of one shelter he had gone into. Ald H A W Huxham said he agreed with this and they should follow the example of Barnstaple Council who had fitted their shelters with gates. After further debate it was decided that no action be taken in the matter.

Gunr J Sherborne writes to the Editor of the Bideford Gazette.

Mr R G Balsdon is appointed to a commission.

The very gratifying sum of £121 4s 8d was realised at the Methodist Church Hall, Instow, by a sale of work organised by Miss Dobbs, Commandant of Devon 72 contingent of British Red Cross Society, in aid of the Prisoners of War fund. The excellent and copious display of toys was due to the skill and energy of the many friends of the contingent.

Official news has been received that Flight Mechanic Herbert J Folland, only child of Mrs and the late Mr Joshua Folland, of Dolton and Merton, is missing after taking part in bombing operations over Germany. A very popular young man, he was held in high esteem by all who knew him and sympathy goes out to his mother and young wife in their great anxiety.

Two brothers, members of a family with seven sons in the Forces or other branches of National Service have recently been able to meet in North Africa. They are Driver John Francis Symons of Bideford and Driver Percival Symons of Torrington.

Sergt G H Hanks, of a Tank Battalion, has written to the Mayor of Torrington.

Births: to Jack and Dorothy (nee Waters), a daughter, first grandchild of Mr and Mrs Elston of Northam; at Holland Park to Esme (nee Hambly), wife of Haydn Vine, a sister for Cleveland.

Engagement: The engagement is announced between Thomas Wilfed Johns, eldest son of Mr and Mrs T Johns, 1 Brookfield Terrace, Bideford, and Gwenda Hibbert, of Warrington, Lancs.

A dance at Abbotsham.

Following the custom of his late father, Sir William Reardon Smith and family kindly sent gifts for distribution to the aged and blind in Appledore. As in previous years the distribution has been carried out by Miss Olive Ford.

The death occurred on Christmas Day of Mr Sydney Waldon, of 1 Kingsley Road, Bideford, whose younger brother Mr John Waldon, died only a few weeks ago. Mr S Waldon was a Bidefordian born and bred and spent nearly 40 years as a clerk with the firm of Messrs Bazeley, Barnes and Bazeley, Bideford. Earlier he was dispenser with Drs Rouse and Gooding, Bridgeland Street. The funeral took place at Northam.

Two Bideford octogenarians, wed over sixty years were buried at the Church of England Cemetery, East-the-Water, Bideford on Christmas Eve. They were Mr and Mrs John Henry Blackmore, Bridge View, Bideford. Mrs Blackmore died on 18th and Mr Blackmore followed on 23rd. They were married in 1883 at the Wesleyan Chapel, both being of Bideford families, Mrs Blackmore’s maiden name being Major. Their family of seven are all living, including Messrs Charles, Jack and William Blackmore, Miss Gertrude Blackmore,Mrs (Nurse) Margaret Budgens, Mrs Ethel Edwards and Mrs Nell Passmore, daughters.

There was much local interest in the wedding at Tavistock Parish Church of Lieut Roy Action, RA, and Miss Dorothy Hewson, youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs F Hewson, of Tower House, Strand, Bideford. A number of friends from Bideford attended the ceremony. Before joining the forces the bridegroom was a member of Devon Constabulary and had been stationed at Bideford, and the bride has been a member of the staff of the Town Clerk’s department since early in the war.

Fifteen children and two adults spent Christmas as patients at the North Devon Joint Isolation Hospital, Alverdiscott Road, Bideford, and …

Some 900 children from Bideford, Northam, Westward Ho! Appledore and Westleigh were given their most memorable treat on Christmas Day when officers and men of the United States Army ‘took over’ the role of Father Christmas at the Strand Cinema, kindly loaned by the directors. First came the thrill for many in being taken to the rendezvous in military vehicles, and then the irrepressible happy atmosphere inside, with the theatre filled with excited girls and boys, and acting as hosts among them American soldiers almost as excited as their charges.

The Methodist cause at Woolsery has lost a devoted supporter in the person of Mr James Wonnacott, of Slade Cottage, Clovelly, whose unexpected death caused deep regret in the district. Mr Wonnacott served in the Great War of 1914-1918. Before going to live at Slade Cottage, Mr and Mrs Wonnacott and their family resided at Woolsery.

Members of the Royal North Devon Golf Club, Westward Ho! of which he had been acting secretary during the war in the absence on service of the secretary, Major R H Columbine, were among those attending the funeral service of Mr Michael Alexander Caldwell, OBE, of Marchwood, Limers Lane, Northam.

Parkham Christmas Fund for the prisoners of war.

What’s on at The Cinema in Torrington?

As a result of the sale of fruit, vegetables, etc. organised by Mr W B Clarke, landlord of the Black Horse, Torrington, a sum of £24 3s 5d has been given to the local prisoners of war fund. Mr Clarke wishes to express his very sincere thanks to all those who helped to make the effort such a success.

Children’s treat at Torrington.

A gentleman of good education with considerable business experience (over military age) desires an APPOINTMENT locally, hours 10 to 4, clerical preferred.

For sale, children’s encyclopedia, 8 volumes, good condition: 10s, each book. J Wise, Weare Giffard.

The workers at the Buckleigh Laundry, Westward Ho! met for a few minutes to say goodbye to two of their colleagues who have retired – Mrs Maud Powe of Appledore, and Mrs L Clarke of Bideford, who have each worked at Buckleigh for over forty years. Mr Boyle, presenting them each with a cheque from the firm, said that goodness and devotion such as theirs could never be repaid, but their mates would ever remember them with affection and now wished them many happy years of retirement.

Years Ago - December

December 1923

Births – James Edward Barrow;

Marriages – John Henry Blackmore to Flossie Matilda Shell;

Deaths – Lottie Louisa Logsdon; Ellen Paddon; Louisa Pellifeant; Charles Cornish; Mary Jane Kelly; E J Wills; William Clements; James Colwill; John Cowell; James Ellis; Percival Stanley Nance-Kivell; Emma Skemp; John Mark Tucker;

North Devon Railway – Torrington Rural Council’s special precepts.

Torrington-Halwill Railway. Hatherleigh Station question.

It was reported to the Plymouth and District Local Employment Committee in connection with the Halwill-Torrington Railway that following the report of the Ministry of Labour official made a few weeks ago, improvements had been made in the conditions, and at present an additional number of storm shelters had been erected.

Christmas excursions on board Southern Railway

Christmas preparations are vying with the General Election for coverage in the Gazette this month. At this time Bideford and the surrounding villages were part of the North Devon, Barnstaple constituency and all the political parties are given space to put forward their policies ahead of the vote on 6 December. The Gazette of 11 December is largely taken up with Election results, which nationally puts the Conservatives into a minority following great Liberal and Labour gains. The Liberals were particularly successful in the South West. The sitting MP in 1923 was the Conservative Basil Peto who lost out to the Liberal Tudor Rees, and It is reported that the result of the poll came as a surprise to all parties. This was always a very closely fought seat with power changing from party to party at each vote.

Good things for the festive season from The India & China Tea Company, and Farleigh's Stores in Bideford.

The funeral of the late Mrs Mason, of Portledge, took place at Alwington. The oak coffin, bearing the simple inscription, “Jane Mason, died 8th December, 1923, aged 84 years” was conveyed by hearse and accompanied by a large number of friends over the hill from Portledge to the parish church of Alwington. Here, at the entrance, the cortege was met by the Rev H C Spring, the Rector, who led the way into the church, which was filled by a large number of villagers and friends. The service proceeded quietly – there were no hymns sung by request.

The people of West Appledore were awakened in the early morning by the repeated blowing of a fog horn. The ketch Hematope, owned by Captain Eastman and in the charge of Captain Edwin Cole was discovered wedged on rocks close to the Royal George. She was carrying a valuable cargo of manure and headed for Bideford. Several attempts were made to offload the cargo and refloat the ketch but these were unsuccessful. Eventually she was broken up. The Hematope was built in America over seventy years ago and is the last of the American ships to be sailing over Appledore Bar.

Messrs Marles, Squires and Tythecott are involved in a startling accident at Appledore.

Mr E Hocking, motor car proprietor of Appeldore, had a stroke of bad luck.

Marriages in Appledore for Miss Edith Maud Hocking and Mr Frederick Arthur Huxtable; and Miss Annie Slade and Mr George Davis Lang.

News has reached Appledore that Mr Albert Ford, son of Mr William Ford, foreman of Messrs R and J Cock’s and Mr William Harris, son of Mr John Harris, and grandson of Councillor P K Harris, have successfully passed their Master’s Certificates, the former at the early age of 21, and the latter 23, the last mentioned not going to sea till he was 16. It is a brilliant achievement on the part of both of them.

Appledore was depressed to hear of the sudden illness of Mr Lewis Lawday, and hope is expressed that he will be spared to weather the illness. The death occurred at Pitt House, of Mr Alfred Tovell, who had been in ill health for some time past. Deceased, who was formerly engaged in the mercantile marine, had been in all parts of the world, but on account of his health was obliged to give up going to sea several years ago. He leaves a widow and one son (who resides at Devonport) for whom the greatest sympathy is felt in their sad bereavement.

The first meeting of the North Devon branch of the Historical Association took place at Edgehill College, Bideford, by kind permission of Miss Johnson. The first lecture was on “Italian cities of the Middle Ages”.

The funeral of the late James Colwill, who died at Moreton Cottages, Meddon Street, Bideford, after a long illness contracted while on active service with his Majesty’s Forces in the late war, took place at the Church Cemetery, the Rev W N Manning officiating.

Over £400 was raised at a Christmas Bazaar, opened by Mrs Pine Coffin, in the Church Institute, Bideford, in aid of electric lighting at St Mary’s Church. The Rectory working party under the guidance of Mrs Manning, wife of the rector, raised £100 on their stall. The newly installed electric lighting of St Mary’s Church, Bideford, was switched on, and a special thanksgiving service commemorated the occasion. Rev W N Manning gave an appropriate address to a large congregation. At eight o’clock the building was flooded with electric light.

Bideford Amateur Rowing Club encourages you to buy a ticket with proceeds allocated to the purchase of a new boat to replace the Carnival.

An unpleasant incident marked the initial meeting in the Labour campaign at Bideford. Mr Gifford spoke from the Victoria terrace balcony immediately on the conclusion of a meeting addressed by Capt Tudor Rees, the majority of the audience remaining. Mr Walter Cole, a member of Bideford Town Council, and chairman of the Divisional Labour Party, presided, and met with a very hostile reception when attempting to speak.

Mr Charles T Bell of Heale House, Bideford, issues a disclaimer.

Messrs Hansen Shipbuilding and Shiprepairing Company Ltd successfully launched another steamship from their Bideford yard. There was an excellent tide, and the new boat, the s.s. Wheatplain christened by Lady Hansen, met the Torridge in a graceful manner. This is a sister ship to s.s. Wheatcrop, and this launch completes a contract for four vessels with Messrs Spillers Steamship Company.

The Westward Ho! Art Club exhibition at Bridge Hall in Bideford has been a great success. No paintings were included this time, the exhibits being of artistic woodwork, etchings, book binding, needlework and handmade lace. Photography was also included for the first time thanks to the help of Colonel F W Evatt of Instow. It is reported that the etchings in particular were varied and of a much higher standard than one would have expected.

The ladies section of the Bradworthy Young People’s Guild was exceedingly successful in every way. Miss B Wade ably presided over a congregation that filled the Wesleyan Church. A dialogue given by Nurse Bashford, Misses Dymond, F Cory, Westaway, Piper, Jennings and F Martin, won unstinted praise. Two recitations by Mrs Cleave of Lane Mill, will be long remembered by those who heard them. Solos were ably rendered by Misses E Mitchell, Hockin and Bartlett; a duet by Misses G Martin and Chubb; and a quartette by Misses F and G Martin, Chubb and Piper. Miss F Martin and Mrs Cann were accompanists. A coffee supper which followed and to which the majority sat down terminated a very pleasant and successful evening.

At Bradworthy, the death of Mrs Grace Jones of Lower Village is announced, and the funeral of Mrs R Gloyn, of Kimworthy, took place in the Free Church Cemetery, Bradworthy.

The new skittle alley at Buckland Brewer has been opened, the ceremony being conducted by Mr W H Rogers of Orleigh Court. Tea was followed by skittling, music and dancing. Everyone regretted when the clock struck midnight and the gathering dispersed after singing the National Anthem.

A very quiet but pretty wedding took place at All Saints’ Church in Clovelly, the contracting parties being Miss Doris Littlejohns and Mr Jim Jennings.

We regret to announce the death of Capt C H Bate at his residence, The Square, Clovelly, in his 70th year. Capt Bate had been living ashore since his ship was torpedoed in the Bay of Biscay in 1916, when he was adrift in an

Polling at Clovelly School was quiet, with eleven votes being cast between 7am and 8am, and only three votes after 8pm. Out of a total of 305 people eligible, 248 cast their ballots.

Entertainment at Hartland.

William Goaman, Elmscott, Hartland is fined.

At Hartland, Messrs Dennis and Gregory were reappointed school managers.

Bideford Rural District Council, Mr W Harris presiding, accepted the Ministry’s offer of 50% towards the cost of the repair and improvement of the road from Baxworthy Corner to Hartland, the work, which includes widening the road to 20ft, for a distance of about 2,000 yards and improving four corners, to be carried out by the Council and to be completed within 2 years. The Council had asked for 75%. Hartland Parish Council has complained to the Rural District Council that danger signs erected on the road can sometimes project so far as to become themselves a danger to traffic by obstructing the view. New signs are to be positioned at the corner of Fore Street, at South Lane and in Townsend.

The Parish Church of Instow was the scene of a fashionable wedding when members of two local families holding a high place in the esteem of residents generally, were united in holy matrimony. The bride was Miss Marjorie Grace Evatt, only child of Colonel and Mrs F W Evatt, of Greenhills, Instow, and the bridegroom, Mr Arthur Gay Lambert Everett, eldest son of Capt and Mrs Everett, also of Instow. The bride was attended by the Miss M Whitaker and Miss M Dodd; Little Master John Douglas Withers was a page; the best man was Mr G E D Wood, of London, the All-England cricketer. The wedding presents numbered over 200 and were very handsome and costly.

Much interest was evinced in a wedding which as solemnised at Instow, the nuptials being those of Miss Helen Elizabeth Constance Durnford-Slater, daughter of the late Capt L Durnford-Slater, Royal Sussex Regiment, and Mrs Durnford-Slater, of Instow, and Commdr Harold Gordon Cooper Franklin, RN, HMS Barbam, son of the late Mr George Cooper Franklin, FRCS, and Mrs Franklin, of Fareham, Hants. The Durnford-Slater family is highly respected throughout North Devon, and the interest taken in the event was not confined to the Instow district. The town and front were gaily….

The School Managers at Langtree decides to close the school for the Christmas holidays from December 20th to January 2nd. The agreement in connection with the appointment of Miss Down was executed, and the head master, Mr Westcott, presented the balance sheet in connection with the children’s sports.

A free supper given to the ex-Service men of Langtree parish in the church room, followed by a social evening was fairly well attended and quite enjoyed by those present. Dancing was indulged in, and thanks were given to Mesdames Jones, Burrows, Thorne and Walters, and to Mr P B Jones for making all the arrangements.

Colonel T S Hobbs, of Canade, donates gifts to Langtree inhabitants.

The mortal remains of Mrs Ann Brooks were laid to rest in the Parish Churchyard at Langtree.

At St Margaret’s Church, Northam, the church in which she was christened 21 years ago, the marriage took place in the presence of a very large congregation, of Miss Evelyn Marjorie Bennet, daughter of Col and Mrs F W Bennet, of Fairlea, and Capt. John Ferguson, Rajputana Rifles, son of the late Mr and Mrs J Ferguson.

A very successful whist drive was held at the Schools Northam. Large contingents came from Westward Ho! Appledore and Bideford, and there 48 tables and a good number of onlookers. During the evening Mr Bottomley, the Chief Conservative Agent for the Division was introduced by the chairman, Mr Sidney Thompson, and made an interesting and amusing speech. Thanks are due to all who helped to make the evening such a success, especially the MC, Mrs Miller, Mr Sussex, Miss Hearn and the Misses Teace. The prizes were won by the following:

On Election Day itself, polling at Parkham passed off very quietly, each party working with a determined effort.

At Parkham, Mr Martin unfortunately had a fall from his pony on returning home near Foxdown. He was cut about the head and had no recollection how the affair happened.

A very interesting evening was spent at the ex-Service Men’s Alley in Parkham, when a skittle competition took place. Three tied for first place, viz., R Ley, G Jewell and L Walter, and for fifth S Metherall and W Dack. On playing off, L Walters took 1st (duck); G Jewell (fowl); Ley (cigarettes); P Squire (rabbits); W Dack (rabbits).

The marriage was solemnised at Shebbear Parish Church, the Vicar, Rev T E Fox, officiating, of Miss Edith Hocking, eldest daughter of Mr W Hocking, of North Hay Farm, Shebbear, and Mr Frank Archibald Hutchings, eldest son of Mr and Mrs J Hutchings, Petersmarland. Owing to a family bereavement the wedding was of a quiet nature. The best wishes of their friends will go with the newly married couple, who will reside at Willaton, Petersmarland.

At the adjourned meeting of Torrington Town Council, the Mayor, Mr C M Doe, presided, others present being Messrs F W Hodge, M Passmore, W T Luxton, M Chapple, R Moore, R E L Penhale, T Heywood, T Andrews, C Popham, H Vincent, W Grimshire and J Wightman. The lease of the market expired on December 1st and it was agreed to let the same by tender. A letter was read from Devon Education Committee asking the Council’s sanction for their men to repair the asphalte playground at the Council school – Mr Luxton considered it would be depriving local contractors, and moved that the Council do not undertake the work. Mr Penhale seconded and it was agreed to.

An interesting ceremony took place when the Girl Guides’ new headquarters in Church Walk were opened. Mrs Scott Browne, the Divisional Commissioner, was received by a guard of honour of Girl Guides and on entering the Club Room, by the Brownies’ Howl.

Before the Mayor and Messrs G Chapple and H Tavener, William Lyons Wood failed to appear in answer to a summons for driving a motor without lights in Calf Street, Torrington. The Bench adjourned the case for defendant’s appearance.

Following a lingering illness Ernest Henry Budd, youngest son of the late Mr and Mrs J M Budd, passed away at the residence of his brother-in-law, Mr Drew, in Mill Street, Torrington. During the past week another prominent Torrington worthy has passed away, Henry Hearn, of Louise Terrace, New Street. Deceased was a life long member of the Baptist Church, having filled the offices of teacher, and superintendent of the Sunday School. The funeral was largely attended. The acting bearers were Messrs J Tapscott, T J Dyer, C Popham, A Cole, J Parnacott and J Slocombe.

Mr Hedly Millman, of Dolderse, Torrington, and formerly of Langtree, has passed the final B.A. examination of London University with honours in French. Mr Millman was a pupil of Langtree Church School under the headmastership of Mr Kelly (now of Exminster School) and won a scholarship to Barnstaple Grammar School.

The Royal North Devon Golf Club at Westward Ho! has been chosen to host Golf’s Amateur Championship in 1925.

At the Station Hall, Westward Ho! Miss Ellis and the Misses Cabell were presented with a pair of silver candlesticks each in recognition of their work in the Sunday School and Children’s Guild, by the parents and children and many local friends. Miss Ellis has taught at the Sunday School for 42 years, helped to start the Young People’s Union and the Band of Hope (now converted into the Children’s Guild) and many happy evenings have been spent with the children. The senior boys, assisted by Miss Wicketts, one of the teachers, who made a very nice speech, presented the candlesticks.

At Woolsery, the news of the death of Mr Vanstone, of Cranford, occasioned widespread regret as he was greatly liked for his kindly disposition. Previous to settling at …

Join a Savings Association and buy savings certificates.

December 1973

Abbotsham WI

In 1716 Roger Melhuish, short of cash, handed over properties in Northam and Appledore to trustees in order to endow a son on marriage. The legal effect was that the freehold of the properties passed to the trustees who, by virtue of the settlement, became the owners of the properties. The provisions of the settlement were fulfilled when they sold at a nominal rent 200 year leases, the lets to start after the death of Roger Melhuish, one of the sons. He died on March 25, 1770. On March 25, 1970, ownership of the properties returned automatically to the trustees.

A pre-Christmas dinner gave 160 Appledore old-age pensioners an evening to remember. Its organisation was combined operation. Appledore Pirates provided transport to and from the dinner and at the end of the evening gave each pensioner a quarter-bottle of whisky. Mr W Hardman, of the Seagate Hotel, gave the food; Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd the beer, wines, use of canteen and staff; and other principal helpers were the local Women’s Institute and the Darby and Joan Club. Music was provided by Appledore Silver Band.

“Clear the yard in 45 minutes” was the telephone message received at Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd by gatekeeper Mr ‘Arty’ Harding. Management interpreted this as a bomb warning and the yard was evacuated as police raced to the scene. But it turned out to be a hoax and threequarters of an hour after the message was received.

Vandals who went on the rampage at Appledore on Boxing Day night caused damage to 30 cars and several public telephones. The damage, which included the breaking of car aerials, wing mirrors and lights, and the cutting of hand sets from telephone kiosks, took place between 9pm and 10.30pm. Local police are anxious for anyone who saw anything suspicious to contact them.

The door closes at the Grenville nursing home at Bideford for the last time and midwife Mrs A M Johns, of Woolsery, says goodbye to the last of the 5,000-plus babies born there. Twins, they are pictured in the arms of their mother, Mrs Jennifer Hedden, of 1 Harbour Cottages, Weare Giffard.

Two gifts of colour TV sets brought extra Christmas cheer to patients and staff of Bideford and District Hospital. In memory of her husband, who farmed Norwood, Torrington, Mrs R P Lowe presented one of the sets to George Ward, where he had been a patient on several occasions. On behalf of the hospital Mr Morris accepted the gift and thanked Mrs Lowe. The Vicar of Torrington, the Rev P G Harrison, offered a prayer of dedication. Mrs Lowe is standing next to the Deputy Matron, Miss M Knowles. The other colour TV set was given anonymously for the nurses sitting room.

Almost certainly this is the only house in Bideford that has any association with the town at the time of the granting of the charter. In fact parts of it date back to 800AD. Now known as Old Ford House – near it was situated the ford before the Torridge was bridged – it was sold away from the farm some years ago. It is now the home of Mr and Mrs Frederick Eccles who moved her about four months ago. Later in the month – The old photograph of Old Ford House was especially interesting to Mrs E M Williams of 30 Pynes Lane, Bideford, who recognised her grandparents, Mr and Mrs Newcombe who farmed from there. Her father did not follow on at the farm but became a policeman.

There is an interesting history to a 17th century silver spoon that Bideford solicitor Mr Jeremy Ferguson loaned to the exhibition of borough silver. The spoon, which turned up in London, was recently bought by Mr Ferguson who has been trying for some years to acquire at Bideford-made piece. This one was made by John Peard.

Bideford Chamber of Commerce recommends that traders ‘remain fully lighted’.

A life size Queen Elizabeth I presenting a charter to Sir Richard Grenville made a splendid backcloth for the rosebud-trimmed Elizabethan fayre held at Lavington church. Stalls were named after celebrities of the time, and tea tables were decorated in Elizabethan style. The minister, Rev Frank Hewis, presided, and one Freeman of the borough, Church Secretary Mr H Blackmore, introduced Bideford’s last Freeman, Miss Phyllis Durant who opened the fayre. The sale of work, she said, had a dual purpose. Miss Ada Lee proposed a vote of thanks, and Melanie Manley, Michaela Ackland and Jessica Ayres dressed in costumes presented bouquets. Miss P Johns designed the backcloth and Pynes School lent the authentic costumes. Mrs W Slade made the tissue roses.

Under the cover of darkness Spaniards invaded Bideford Quay. After a brief battle with local Cavaliers and Buccaneers they were driven off and their galleon moored in the middle of the river was set ablaze by cannon fire. But there was no bloodshed for the ‘invasion’ was a mock one staged as part of the town’s quatercentenary celebrations. The hardy groups of spectators who braved the cold were sustained with free cider and slices of roasted ram handed out by Beaford members. Fireworks from the East-the-Water river bank signalled the time for the Mayor of Bideford, Maj E Hill, to unveil a plaque on the Town Hall wall commemorating the anniversary.

A fancy dress parade for dogs was one of the highlights of Bideford and District Dog Training Society’s Christmas party at Bideford CLB Hall. Winner was Jessie, a border collie, shown by Julia Sawtell, of Windmill Lane, Northam. Mr and Mrs Ron Lewis, of Plymouth were the judges. Entries included a Hulu dancer, cowboy, Robin Hood, circus horse, Scot and a Christmas cracker. The party was organised by club hon secretary, Mrs Pam Gerry.

Scores of Christmas parties have been held for children in the area and more than 80 attended that given by Bideford and District Angling Club. Following their Christmas tea every child received a present from Father Christmas.

On each side of 8 Torrington Lane, East-the-Water, Bideford, the houses stand empty and boarded up, awaiting the attentions of the bulldozer which is to demolish them. No 8 is the home of Miss May Nellie Paddon, the last to leave. She was born in a house on the opposite side of the street and came to No 8 as a very young baby. Next week she is being rehoused in Sentry Corner. “I’ve always lived in this street and would be happiest living near here” Miss Paddon told the Gazette.

To enable work on the Bucks Mills sewerage scheme to continue, the Department of the Environment has granted an extension of the road closure Order at Bucks Mills until April 2. Pebbles to make gabion groynes for much needed sea defence work at Bucks Mills are to be fetched from Clovelly although there are thousands of tons of suitable stones and pebbles right on the site, claims fisherman Mr Trevor Davey. He says they will have to be …

Nephews were among the bearers at the funeral at Hartland Methodist Church of Mr William Henry Rowe who died at 7 Northgate, Hartland. The Rev G R Beadon officiated and Mr Wesley Heard was organist. Immediate mourners attending were: the widow; William, Ambrose and Paul; Elizabeth; Tony, Andrew and Rhona; Tom, Jack and Mervyn; Annie, Ethel and Maggie; Tom Hutchings, Wallace Heard, George Patt, Tom Colwill, Eli Colwill; Edie, Doris and Emily; Ruby and Bill, Betty and Dennis, Ricky and Rosamund, Sheila, Winnie, Elsie, Ivy, Percy and Sid; Ivy, Margey, Jack, Theodore, Howard, Reg, Jim, Edie, Frank, Charlie, Alf, Lizzie and Bill.

A wall at Northgate is alleged to be so dangerous that Hartland Parish Council fear it may soon collapse and kill or maim someone. They are to press Bideford Rural District Council to demolish the wall and construct a footpath there now, and not wait until the site is developed. The parish council first raised the matter four months ago.

Mr Wilfred Thomas Dark, of Taunton, whose death occurred in Musgrave Park Hospital, was a son of the late Capt and Mrs F W Dark, of Instow. The funeral took place at the North Devon Crematorium, the Rector of Bideford, Preb T Derwent Davies, officiating. Representatives of Shell-Mex and Esso were among others attending.

Mr Alan Smith, of Heale House, Littleham, joint owner of the yacht Burton Cutter, which was forced to retire from the Cape Town-Sydney leg of the Round the World race, has flown back to spend Christmas at home. But the yacht, under the command of her first mate, Peter Blake, has left Cape Town to cross the South Atlantic to Argentina. There she will enter for the Buenos Aires-Rio de Janeiro ocean racing classic. Mr Smith and Leslie Williams are to fly out to join the Burton Cutter for the race. The yacht will rejoin the Round the World event at Rio for the final leg to Portsmouth.

Members of Monkleigh Youth Club raised between £50 and £60 at their Christmas Fayre held in the Village Hall. This money is to go towards a Christmas party for club members and an Over-60s night to be held in the New Year. Formed at Easter, the club now has 40 members meeting each Saturday. Draw winners at the Fayre were: Messrs R Grigg, A Page, J Hardy, R Spry, A Lawrence and Miss J Williams.

When Northam WI shared in the ‘Plant a tree in 73’ campaign they chose to do so with a red maple, representing the colours of the WI movement – red and green. Watched by institute members who braved the rough weather, the tree was planted in the grounds of Northam Church Hall by the retiring president, Mrs J Foreman. She was introduced by the president, Mrs Grace Smith, who also thanked the Vicar for making available the site which was central for the village.

At Parkham Church and WI combined whist drive in the Village Hall 37 tables were used. Mrs S Rickard was MC.

A profit of just over £65 was made for the Parkham school fund at the annual Christmas sale held in the Allardice Hall. Stall holders were: Mesdames M Williams, M Souch, E Daniel, E Moore, Mrs E Ford, Mrs M Pickard, Mrs J Glover, Mrs Davidson, Mrs J Poole, Rachel Dack, Gillian Ley, Julie Souch and Linda Marsden, Sarah Dwight, Angela Honey and Jayne Dack, Lorna Bollor, Roger Honey, Kevin Glover and Allan Williams, Richard Heywood, Kathryn Ley, Roger Allin and Carol Ford, Rachel Dack, Pamela Hicks and Jennifer Walter.

To date, £79,185 has been received by Torrington Town Council from the sale of council houses to tenants.

Mr T C Biddick, former headmaster, was the principal guest at Torrington County Primary School’s Christmas fair held in aid of school funds. About £200 was raised. Mr Biddick was accompanied by his wife, who is also a retired headmistress, and formal introductions were made by the present headmaster, Mr Leigh Cullen, who also introduced Father Christmas (Mr Herbert Oke) who had to deal with countless orders for the Christmas stockings. A film show was given by Mr Bernard Medley-Smith and Mr Robert Gordon, and refreshments supervised by Doctor Jean Tyler, Mrs Betty Cobbledick, Mrs R Cooke, Mrs Olwen Reynolds and many helpers. Competition winners included H Pollard, P Bond, Mrs Pascoe, P Smale, Mr Rollinson, Mrs Popham, Mrs Crees and Mr Tidball.

Provided the planners agree, about 100 detached and semi-detached houses will be built on a new estate at Torrington. Their cost – between £7,000 and £9,000 – was stated this week. And that will include a garage and central heating. The houses are to be built by Messrs R Harris and Son, of Barnstaple, on 11 acres of land at Castle Hill Gardens which has been sold by Torrington Town Council for £130,000. The land carried outline planning permission for housing development and Mr Tom Bonetta told the Gazette that provided they received the cooperation of the planning authorities on detailed lay-out, they aimed to start building early in March. “We are planning the high density low cost estate which we feel is needed in Torrington” said Mr Bonetta.

Kipling Terrace at Westward Ho! consisting of 12 houses each of five floors, failed to reach the reserve and was withdrawn at £110,000 when offered for sale by public auction. The auctioneer announced that the property would be withdrawn but open to offers. Further enquiries were received after the auction from people showing considerable interest.

Skin care at Woolsery WI.

December 1998

Stone built character cottage for sale at Abbotsham.

Alverdiscott Young Farmers and their four-footed friends raised £1,200 in sponsorship on a charity ride along the tracks and fields of their parish. From children on tiny ponies to mums and dads on their hunters, more than 40 riders took part in the event in aid of the North Devon Cancer Care Centre Trust. The picture shows riders Lisa Webber, Lindsay Ford, Janet Webber and Caroline Bulled with James Ford, Clifford Milton.

For the 25th consecutive year cries of ‘timber’ on the Portledge Estate at Fairy Cross have heralded the arrival of Appledore’s community Christmas tree. Each year for the past quarter-century members of the Appledore Pirates charity group have collected the gift on behalf of the village and erected it in front of the parish church. It is a tradition which has been maintained by two different owners of the estate. The Pirates were in the woods again to choose this year’s 25ft high tree with the help of Portledge Estates farm manager Bob Davies who is pictured with Pirates John Cole, Terry Bailey and Chris Hotchkiss.

There was plenty of yo-ho-ho and even a bottle of run or two when Appledore pensioners enjoyed their annual Christmas party, courtesy of the Appledore Pirates. More than 100 pensioners benefited from the generosity of the Pirates. There was a sumptuous spread plus musical entertainment from Appledore Silver Band and dancing to Pendulum.

Appledore Shipbuilders is to build two replacement vessels for the Sail Training Association’s famous tall ship training schooners Sir Winston Churchill and Malcolm Miller. In a £10 million deal announced jointly with the STA the yard is due to complete the first of the vessels by the end of next year in time for the millennium celebrations. The identical new ships will be ….

Bideford Chamber of Commerce received no fewer than 70 entries for its festive shop window competition. It is a spectacle which has helped the town create a traditional-style Christmas atmosphere. North Devon Chamber of Commerce chairman Bryan Jones said “I did not expect there would be so many entries but the quantity did not detract from the quality.” The joint winners were The Famous Little Store in Mill Street and Bateman’s Opticians and Designers Florists, both of Bridgeland Street. Chosen for the highly commended awards were The Chocolate Box in Mill Street, Rawston’s Chemist and Scott’s Model Bakery in High Street, and The Art Shop in Allhalland Street.

In the picture – Steve Clarke, Neil Stangham, Linda Evans, Ceri Brown, Karen Taylor, Tonia Quance and Gill Colwill

It is party time aboard and alongside the historic schooner Kathleen and May on Bideford’s eastern riverbank. There is an open invitation to join in the fun, food and entertainment and to look around the 100 year old ship which will become an educational heritage centre, once restored. The party, which will include carols and fireworks, is more a celebration than a fund-raising event.

Christmas gift boxes are forging friendships between North Devon children and youngsters in Eastern Europe. Pupils at Grenville College Junior School are the latest local schoolchildren to take part in Operation Christmas Child. Amelia Bull took part in the scheme two years ago and is still writing to the penfriend in Bosnia.

Terraced house in Hartland for sale.

Double fronted semi-detached house for sale in Hartland.

It was more a case of no room at the school than no room at the inn when Langtree Primary pupils began rehearsals for their Christmas play. One of the school buildings was condemned earlier this year, which meant the hall having to be pressed into service as a classroom. Teacher Fran Shortridge, who wrote the play, cast around for somewhere to perform it. And the management of The Plough arts and entertainment complex in Torrington offered their theatre.

Santa dropped in on Lundy last week when a helicopter arrived carrying a large Christmas present – a Land Rover station wagon. It was airlifted from Chivenor. “This is the best Christmas gift we could wish for. Lundy’s 1,100 acres are criss-crossed and circled by footpaths and tracks. With no roads, our wardens need the right tool to maintain it all.” The airlift to Lundy was carried out by a helicopter which had flown up from the Royal Naval Air Station at Culdrose.

Dance and dine at Riversford Hotel & Restaurant in Northam.