100 Years Ago

Years Ago - September

September 1925

Accused Persons’ Rights

An opportunity for British Families in Canada.

The Rector of Alverdiscott has received the following comments from an Exeter archaeologist and expert, which are of much interest, especially the fact disclosed – which very few of us could know – that as last as 1755 there was a preaching cross, probably in the churchyard or on the village green, in this parish. One would like to know when and why it disappeared. He cannot agree with the theory that the so-called ‘stoup’ was the upper stone of the preaching cross.

Harvest thanksgiving services were held in St Andrew’s Church at Alwington. They were, as usual, of a very bright and cheery character, and the attendance was very good in spite of wet and gloomy weather and sickness in the parish.

Bideford County Sessions granted Mr R W Crang a protection order in respect of the license of the Ship Inn, Appledore, until the next transfer day. It was mentioned that Mr Crang had held the license of the Coach and Horses for ten years.

What is described as the first winter session of Appledore British Legion was held on 14 September. Arrangements for Poppy Day and a discussion on the Relief Fund took place and it is proposed to organise a women’s branch in the village.

Alpha House, Appledore, for sale.

Household furniture and effects from Alpha House, Appledore, for sale.

The Vicar of Appledore attended the Court of the Chancellor of the Diocese, Sir Francis Newbolt, KC, at Exeter, and was sworn in as Surrogate, and hence in future the Appledorians who follow the sea will not have to go out of their town to obtain special licence for marriages.

Frank Young, 17, of 48 New Street, Appledore, whilst delivering milk for Mr F Steer, of Bidna Farm, on the steamer Smaragd slipped when getting over the rail on to the deck and caught his foot in an exhaust pipe, fracturing his ankle. He was conveyed ashore on planks and taken to Bideford Hospital where he is now making a satisfactory recovery.

Mr William Gayette, after a prolonged illness passed peacefully away at the early age of 26, leaving a young widow after only eight months of married life, he having married Miss Harriett Powe as recently as February last. He served his time as a shipwright in Messrs P K Harris and Sons, and was considered one of their best workmen among the younger staff. He lived in Market Street, Appledore. Later in the month, the funeral was reported.

News of another sad bathing fatality on the North Devon coast; in which a gallant young lady gave her life in trying to save her friend, and a mother was bravely rescued by her daughter, comes from Northam. A large party of visitors staying at Miss Popham’s, Bude Street, Appledore, went out between four and five pm on the Burrows between Appledore and Westward Ho! And proceeded to bathe just opposite the sixth hole tee of the Royal North Devon Golf Course, in the vicinity of the Pulleys. Mrs Hodgson heard the bathers shouting, and unfortunately at first thought they were only enjoying themselves but she very soon realized that they were in grave difficulties and then heard one of them shout. Four or five doctors, including Dr Martin (a visitor) and a lady, with Mr F Mortimer (Board of Trade Officer) and others, worked strenuously for a very considerable period but without result and the bod of the gallant but unfortunate lady was removed to Northam to await the inquest. PCs Uglow and Harding were early in attendance and rendered all the assistance in their power.

Miss Agnes Spry and Mr Daniel Balsdon, Beaworthy, are married.

An interesting advert from Boyle’s outfitters caught our eye. Not only do they supply clothing but also trunks – there must have been a good number of boys locally going off to boarding school.

Rev George H Crossland, MC, the newly appointed junior minister in the Bideford Wesleyan Circuit, was born in London, where he passed the early years of his life. He was educated at St Dunstan’s College, Catford, and afterwards spent seven years in a City office. He became a local preacher in 1904 and was accepted as a candidate for the Ministry from the Sydenham Circuit in 1906.

Telephone facilities of Bideford.

The original Gipsy Lee will visit for the Regatta.

Bideford Amateur Rowing Club – the South Devon Regattas.

An alarming explosion at No. 4 Queen Street, Bideford.

Hospital Sunday was observed at the Bideford Wesleyan Church by the Mayor, Corporation and representatives of the Bideford Hospital Committee attending a divine service, when a stirring appeal was made for the great work of healing by the senior circuit minister, the Rev Halstead. The civic procession left the Town Hall by way of the Quay, High Street, and Granville Street, and the return was made by the same route.

Bideford Hospital Stop Watch Scheme.

Later in the month, it was reported that the watch was wound up by the Town Clerk. The sealed package was opened by His Worship the Mayor in the Town Hall in the presence of the Town Council, and the watch was found to have stopped at 11hrs 20mins 43 secs. The winner is Miss Cole of Ruglen, Westward Ho!

Bideford and District Hospital acknowledges with thanks gifts of beans from Col M Barrett; vegetables and tomatoes, Mr Hockmeyer; flowers, Mrs Phillips; old linen and books, Miss H Turner; books and toys, Miss D Dawson; meat, Capt Hope Hall; illustrated papers, Madame O’Donovan; children’s book, Miss Luard and eggs, flowers, jellies and sugar, the Parish Church.

Bideford’s war trophy guns have been placed in position in the enclosure in front of the Devonshire Regt (Territorials) Headquarters on the Pill, and are receiving a coat of paint.

The presentation of the Charter of incorporation took place at the first annual dinner of Bideford Rotary Club, held at the New Inn Hotel. The ceremony was performed by Mr Charles E White, President of Rotary International, Britain and Ireland, who is making a tour of the West. The President of Bideford Rotary Club, Dr Toye, occupied the chair.

There was a pretty wedding at St Andrew’s Church, Stratton, when Mr Alfred Downing, of Bideford, married Miss Kathleen Ching, of Stratton.

Ernest Ashlin and Victoria Hooper are married at Bideford Baptist Church.

A very interesting wedding took place at the Wesleyan Church when Mr George Alford was married to Miss Mabel Leonard, daughter of the late Mr and Mrs William Leonard, of New Road, Bideford. The bride was given away by her brother, George, and was attended by her niece, Miss Freda Bishop. After the ceremony a happy family gathering was entertained at Southern House, the residence of the bride’s brother, Mr Ernest Leonard.

The marriage was solemnized at the Lavington Congregational Church, Bideford, in the presence of a large congregation, of Miss Dorothy Meredith, second daughter of Mr and Mrs H I Meredith, of Fernwood, Bideford, and Mr Dick May. The bride and bridegroom were the recipients of many useful and beautiful presents. Mr and Mrs May left later in the day for the East Coast, where the honeymoon is being spent.

At a meeting of Bideford Council School Managers, it was resolved to recommend to the County Education Committee that Miss H Braddick be appointed to the permanent staff at Bideford Girls’ School. At Bideford Borough Sessions, Miss F Tyson, of 1 Elmsleigh Terrace, and former nurse at Exeter, was appointed a probation officer for women and children, in succession to Nurse West.

Bideford Girl Guides.

Miss G West is thanked by Bideford and District Rescue and Preventive Association.

At a property sale at Friendship’s Hotel, R Blackmore and Sons, FAI, disposed of the freehold dwelling house No. 22 Wimborne Terrace to Mr and Mrs Burton, Royston Terrace, Abbotsham Road, for £625.

Mr Charles Bright of Bideford was knocked down by a petrol lorry in Bideford High Street during the busiest period of the day. He had just stepped off the kerb when he was hit. Fortunately, after receiving medical aid, he was able to walk away, with no more injury than severe shock and bruises. Miss Bronwen Miles, of Bridgeland Street was knocked down by a motor cyclist, Mr Chubb of Mill Street. She was thrown on to the pavement and escaped with bruises and a badly cut nose.

Motoring offences for John Matheson Mathias and Arthur James Grevatt.

For riding a bicycle along the footpath in Park Lane, Northam, Frederick Wallace Nicholls, a 19 year old labourer, of Honestone Street, Bideford, was fined 3s and 3s witness expenses at Bideford County Sessions. Mrs Lilian Redshaw, of Park Avenue, said she was looking out of her bedroom window about 3.30pm on the day mentioned, when she saw defendant riding a bicycle along the footpath leading from the Pill to Park Lane. At the time witness’s little girl was sitting on some railings in front of the house beside the path and as the bicycle came up she stepped down on to the path and the cycle knocked her over.

The Bideford steamer, ‘Leeds City’ struck an unknown reef in the Java Sea, ten miles for the Isle of Bawean, and immediately began to sink. The crew promptly entered into two lifeboats. The steamer disappeared from view within 40 minutes. The cargo was 7,500 tons of sugar for Japan.

Bideford Debating Society wound up.

The sad death occurred at Onehunga, near Auckland, New Zealand, of Mr Thomas Hookway, the second and younger son of the late Mr W B Hookway, painter of Geneva Place, Bideford.

The funeral of Mr William Thomas, Ivydene, Abbotsham Road, Bideford, took place at the East-the-Water Cemetery, the Rev W G Eeles officiating. He leaves a widow but no children.

The funeral of the late Mrs Louisa Oerton, wife of Mr T Oerton, of Grangehurst, Bideford, senior member of the firm of Toller, Oerton and Balsdon, solicitors, and mother of Mr T Oerton, Lieut Col Gerald B Oerton, T.D., and Mr Reginald Oerton (New Zealand) took place in the East-the-Water Cemetery, the Rev W N Manning, assisted by Rev T P Dimond-Hogg, officiating. A large attendance, gathered in the Cemetery Chapel and at the graveside to show respect to one who was universally loved in the district. A bell at the Parish Church was tolled during the time of the interment.

Bideford Union is asking for tenders from butchers, grocers, dairymen and drapers. The paper of 1 September gives full details of exactly what is required to meet the needs of workhouse inmates and makes interesting reading.

Anyone planning on buying new furniture has plenty of choice this month. R Blackmore & Sons auctioneers in Bideford is holding several auctions each week. One includes a mangle, an invalid’s wheel chair and 12 white leghorn hens!

With the autumn approaching, adverts from G Hopson & Son and J T White give suggestions for cosy evenings at home:

Whiteley Farm, Bradworthy, for sale.

It was reported later in the month that the Farm was purchased by Mr S Moore, the present occupier for £3,800.

Miss Beatrice Nancekivell and Mr John Gorvan are married in Bradworthy United Methodist Church.

The children of Bradworthy Council School collected £9 14s on behalf of the new children’s ward in connection with the Bideford and District Hospital.

The British Legion Branch at Bradworthy will include Putford and Sutcombe in its scope. Major Spread is the chairman, and Commander Corlett treasurer. The Secretary, Mr A Slee, has the assistance of a committee of eight.

James Henry Sanders, 65, of Bucks Mills, employed at the Loggin Wood Quarry, was admitted to Bideford Hospital with a dislocated shoulder. He was helping with the loading of one of the trucks, used to take the rough stone to the crusher, when the truck and its contents overturned on him. Dr Littlewood was summoned but on arrival he ordered Sanders to be taken to the Hospital. Mr Tritton, a visitor, kindly lent his motor car for the journey.

The funeral of Master William Stanley Thomas, son of Mr and Mrs Thomas, of Clovelly, Coastguard Station, who died after a long illness, took place at All Saints’ Church, in the presence of sympathetic parishioners. He was of a happy and bright disposition and bore his illness bravely. The Rector, Rev T L V Simkin, officiated.

The death of Frederick Headon, a fisherman of Independent Street, Clovelly, is announced. He leaves a widow and a grown-up adopted daughter, and had lived in Clovelly all his life. The greatest sympathy is felt for the relatives. The funeral was reported the following week.

Lady Baird, of Fremington House, who is now in the South of France with her 6-metre yacht, Thistle, has not only won the King of Spain’s Cup in the international race in which she was the only English competitor, but has since raced seven times and secured six first prizes and one second. Lady Baird is expected to return to North Devon towards the end of the month.

The sum of £6 10s 8d was collected by the pupils of Frithelstock School towards the children’s ward of Bideford Hospital. There were 15 collectors, and three of these were present at the presentation of purses to Lady Reardon Smith at the opening ceremony. Lots were drawn for, and the lucky numbers fell to Florrie Tucker, Joyce Johns and Maud Tallin, who transferred her number to Elsie Gordon.

At Bideford County Sessions, the magistrates granted Mr L S Kingsbury a protection order in respect to the license of the New Inn, Hartland, until the next transfer day.

Among the visitors to Hartland Parish Church this summer were the Bishop of Crediton, the Bishop of Gibraltar, and Bishops Chavasse and Talbot.

Disastrous Hartland fire creates £1,000 damage to the farm of Mr Henry Colwill.

Negotiations are underway with neighbouring councils regarding a retaining fee for help with running expenses for the Bideford engine. A report in the paper of 22 September covers this growing controversy in some detail.

Mrs Florence Cornish who died at Trew Cottages, aged 40 years, leaves four children motherless. The funeral took place at Hartland Cemetery, Pastor Trudgeon officiating. Miss E Heard was organist.

The funeral of the late Mr Charles Walter Wickett, whose sudden death at Barry, where he was headmaster of the High-street Boys’ School, took place in the United Methodist Cemetery at Hartland in the presence of a very large number of sympathizing mourners.

A picturesque wedding took place at St Nectan’s Church, Hartland, when Miss Aurelie Clay was married to Mr Cyril Tresize.

Hartland whist at the Palladium.

Collections at Instow and Appledore.

Saunton View, Instow, for sale.

Hibbert Brothers, Landcross, Bideford, give notice.

A team from Langtree parish that won first prize in the tug-of-war, confined to eight parishes in the constituency of St Giles’ Conservative fete, consisted of Messrs W Copp, P Copp, R Jones, J Vanstone, P C Huxtable, W Ayre, J Vanstone and A Ayre.

A successful prosecution on behalf of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was made by Inspector Pleavin against a Langtree farmer and his wife, for causing unnecessary suffering to a pig and for not giving it sufficient food. After a retirement the Bench found both defendants guilty, and fined them £1 each, plus 10s 6d advocate’s fee, and court expenses, or in default a month’s imprisonment. A fortnight was allowed for payment.

We regret to announce the death of Mrs A Beer, wife of Mr Arthur Beer, Ashridge Farm, Littleham, which took place after a prolonged illness patiently borne. Despite medical skill and the most tender nursing she passed peacefully away. The deceased came from London about five years since and for three years was the district nurse of Monkleigh during which she made many friends and was much respected, being ever ready and willing to render any assistance when and where needed. She had resided in Littleham parish about two years. The deceased leaves a husband and little daughter, Joyce, to mourn their loss and to whom the greatest sympathy is being extended.

The first inquest ever held on Lundy Island was conducted by Mr G W F Brown, who made the journey over in the mail boat Lerina. There being no medical attendant on the island, owing to the limited number of inhabitants, a doctor accompanied Mr Brown for the purpose of certifying the cause of death. Mr Noel Griffiths identified the body as that of his father, Capt John Griffiths, managing director of the Glynn-Cymrie Shipping Company, Cardiff. The Coroner’s verdict would be ‘found drowned’.

Lundy news

The s.s. Lerina proceeded to Lundy Island, partially to enable the Vicar of Appledore to conduct the annual Harvest Festival Service at St Helena’s Church.

The funeral took place at Monkleigh of Miss Agnes Short, the oldest inhabitant of the parish. Miss Short was much respected by all and a large number attended. The chief mourners were Mr Ernest Dunn, Mr and Mrs Langdo, Mrs F Essery, Mr W Essery, Mrs Down, Miss Hammett and Mr and Mrs Phillips.

Wedding of Mr Benjamin Muse and Miss Beatriz de Regil, daughter of Mrs W H Gleadell, Commons, Northam.

A meeting of the Shebbear and Newton St Petrock School Managers was held, Mr W H Griffin presiding. Eight applications were received for the headship of Newton St Petrock School, and the two candidates selected were Mrs Irving and Miss Turner.

Mr and Mrs J Osborne, of Black Torrington, who celebrated their golden wedding were parishioners of Shebbear for many years and highly respected by all.

A meeting of the Shebbear and Buckland Filleigh Sports Committee took place in the Council School, Mr J T Pett, senr. Presiding. The treasurer’s accounts showed a profit of just over £2. The funds are to be invested in the National Provincial Bank in the joint names of Messrs J T Pett and H A Earle.

Torrington’s golf club, ideally situated course.

Torrington salaries for the Clerk, Mr B T James, and Surveyor, Mr T B Fairchild.

The marriage of Miss Hannah Wightman, fourth daughter of the late Sgt-Major and Mrs Wightman, of Castle Douglas, and Mr W H Eastmond, only son of the late Mr and Mrs Eastmond, Torrington, was solemnized at the church of St Michael’s. They were the recipients of over 100 presents including cheques, a gold brooch and Jacobean set.

Thanks were accorded the Torrington Conservative Association by Torrington Guardians for inviting the inmates to their recent fete and to Capt James for gifts of pictures for the house.

A party of members of Torrington Bowling Club, including Messrs F and R Hodge was invited to Plymouth by Sir Francis Drake’s Club in honour of the fact that last year[‘s holder of the ribbon of the singles bowls championship, which is now held by a member of their club, was Mr Reginald Hodge, of the Torrington Club.

Torrington Town Council unanimously decided to support the resolution from Bideford Council protesting against the Southern Railway Company’s action in converting the Bideford and Torrington line into a branch line.

The scheme for installing gas lighting on Station Hill in Torrington instead of oil lamps has been deferred due what was considered exorbitant charges by the Gas Company.

Frank Edwarthy of Weard Giffard pleads guilty.

The Parochial Church Council have the satisfaction of being able to announce that the restoration of St Peter’s Parish Church Tower, Westleigh, and other necessary repairs have been satisfactorily completed. The total cost amounted to £231 10s, and the liability has been discharged with the cordial help and assistance of those association with the ancient Church.

The Royal North Devon Golf Club (Lords of the Manor) in conjunction with the Northam Burrows Committee, carried out another pebble pitching day to strengthen the famous Pebble Ridge. It is stated that the Lords of the Manor had not participated in this work for nearly 30 years. The members of the Golf Club who personally assisted included Capt Prideaux Brune, Major Thackwell, Major General R C Boyle, Colonel Leman, Mr Buckland, Mr V Hockmeyer, Dr J Martin, Major Newton King and Colonel G Everett.

At Bideford County Sessions Mrs Phyllis Attenborough, of Lansdowne Crescent, London was fined £1 1s for obstructing the highway in Nelson Road, Westward Ho! with her motor car, and a similar sum for failing to produce a driving licence.

Westward Ho! Art Club’s 6th annual exhibition opens this month at the Bridge Hall in Bideford with over 150 varied exhibits.

At Bideford County Police Sessions, a Woolsery application for an affiliation order was dismissed after a prolonged hearing.

September 1975

Water rationing threatened.

Accommodation land at Badgers Hill, Abbotsham, for sale.

Verses from well known hymns provided the theme of the Festival of Flowers held at St Andrew’s Church, Alwington. Organised by members of the Atlantic Flower Club, the festival raised £150 for Church funds. Ladies of the church provided light refreshments in the Old School Room for the large number of visitors.

A coffee evening at Appledore Leisure Centre – which caters all the year round for the over 60s and their friends – was well supported by visitors and local people.

A trespasser was accused of entering the house of Mrs Florence Mona McArthur at 52 The Mount, Appledore, and stealing a bottle of Martini and a tin of custard.

The Appledore built Golden Hinde replica is to leaver her San Franscisco pier for Mexico where she will star in a multi-million dollar film. On board will be crewman Mr Jan Pearce, of Northdown Road, Bideford, who worked on the vessel at Hinks’ yard, helped to sail her across the Atlantic and intends to stay with her for the foreseeable future. This news has been brought to England by Mr Dave Bray, a neighbour of Mr Pearce, who, on a visit to friends in America, lost no time in seeking him out on board the ship. The Golden Hinde has not been the rousing success in San Francisco that was anticipated, he reports. In spite of the ballyhoo that surrounded her, many Americans refuse to believe that anything so fragile could have crossed the Atlantic, and some think she merely sailed along the coast.

Should an inquiry into the Bideford by-pass question be necessary, the present programme indicated that it would be held some time during the Spring of 1977, the Department of the Environment told Mr Jeremy Thorpe, MP for North Devon.

Attendant today – queen tomorrow! Nicola Blight, of Bideford, who will lead the town’s carnival procession helps out on the pumps at her father’s garage.

Back in Bideford after 24 years in the United States is Mrs F Williams who is staying at 2 Sunnyside, East-the-Water. She will be busy during the next six weeks visiting friends and relatives. She says there are a great many changed in Bideford, but she likes them all. Mrs Williams, who is 72, emigrated to America to make her home with her daughter, Mrs R Terhune, of Detroit, who was a GI bride. Before she flies home Mrs Williams plans to contact some of her former workmates at Buckleigh Laundry where she worked for many years.

Among ex-Bidefordians ‘home’ for the regatta is Mr Archie Lock, formerly of East-the-Water, who at 86 is sprightlier than many a man at least 20 years younger.

Two Bideford Edgehill College girls are to have their work shown at a national arts and crafts exhibition in London. Helen French will display ‘Reverse Clock’ a lino cut print and Lydia Lancaster ‘Escalators’ in powder colour and wax crayons. Their art appears among 700 exhibits of paintings, drawings, sculpture and craft items selected from 30,000 etnries from artists 17 and under. Schools throughout the UK sent in entries. The exhibits were selected by a panel of art experts headed by Sir Norman Reid, director of the Tate Gallery.

Kriter II, the ocean yacht chartered by a French firm from Bideford businessman Mr Alan Smith to compete in the Clipper Race to Australia, was reported to be in the lead, 60 miles ahead of her nearest challenger Great Britain II. “Things are going pretty well” Mr Smith told the Gazette.

11 Church Walk, Bideford, for sale.

Beara Farm, Bideford.

The financial situation may have sealed the fate of Nos 16, 17 and 18 North Road, Bideford, three cottages that the conservationists have long fought to save.

Dissatisfaction was voiced at Bideford Town Council about the long delay in completing an exchange of land for allotments, providing new plots off Marland Terrace for those given up at Love Lane. A year of occupation of the land had been lost, said the Clerk, Mr Ian Hay.

Turning the clock back 55 years. From Mr Fred Taylor comes this picture of the Shamwickshire Rovers team which won the Minor League Cup in season 1920-21.

A Jeffery, A Mitchell, K Ball, C Backway, L Evans, A Bushen, W Beer, Dick Keates, T Mills, F Bater, G Gigg, B Jeffery, F Taylor, S Jeffery, P Short

The decision by the Ministry of Defence not to award a Bideford firm even part of an order for pallets with the result that 11 men have had to be thrown out of work was described as ‘absolutely disgusting’ by a local businessman. Criticising the lack of liaison between Government departments, Mr Ted Patey, managing director of Bardev Materials Handling Ltd of Kynochs, Bideford, said “The officials concerned knew Bideford is in a development area and has a high unemployment rate but it made no difference.” Mr Patey is still hoping for a reconsideration of the Ministry’s decision but he says the chances are small.

£153,000 redevelopment plan for Bull Hill, Bideford.

“Blow it, Mr Mayor!” and Mr Stan Short, Town Mayor of Bideford, makes a valiant effort to oblige. He is seen coping with the intricacies of an armful of double B flat bass, one of four new instruments just acquired by the band. The Mayor was invited to hand them over to the band at a concert held in aid of the new instruments fund.

Listening – Messrs Dennis Gibson, Eric Alford, Jack Gilbert, Derek Reed

Inspector William Matthews, of Bideford, was one of 29 Devon and Cornwall police officers who have received long service (all 22 years) and good conduct medals.

Orchard Hill Mission Church, which was opened 90 years ago, is to be closed next month, the last service being Holy Communion on Sunday, October 5. The future of the building, which can accommodate about 100, is as yet undecided. Reasons for its closure are a combination of circumstances – its structural dilapidation, lack of finance and lack of manpower.

Mr John Trigger has completed 21 years as organist of Bideford Parish Church and to mark this milestone friends of St Mary’s and St Peter’s Churches presented him with a cheque for £21. After a long period of ill health Mr Trigger has now recovered to resume fully his duties as organist and choirmaster.

The funeral has taken place at the North Devon Crematorium of Mrs Olive Matilda Babb, of Royston Road, Bideford.

Bideford’s 19^th century postman-poet, Edward Capern – “The Burns of Devon” – is to be honoured in pilgrimage style by a postman from Windsor, Mr Fred Fuzzens, for long an admirer of Capern’s writings and author of a book about him.

Later in the month, it was reported that all along the route of his pilgrimage to Buckland Brewer, he was greeted by people coming out of their homes to shake his hand and wish him well. At Buckland, children from the village school assembled to greet him and he read to them Capern’s poem ‘The Rural Postman’. Mr and Mrs Tom Boullier, of the sub-post office, entertained him to lunch.

Mr Fuzzens and Mr Bert Inglis, postmaster of Bideford Head Post Office

An interesting talk about antiques was given by Mr S R Sluman to Buckland Brewer WI at their September meeting in the Parish Hall. The social half-hour was organised by Mrs Brown and Mrs Mitchell was the tea hostess.

Farmer friends were bearers at the funeral of Mr Thomas Harris, of South View, Twitchen, Buckland Brewer.

Mrs E C Johns is quitting Thornery, Clovelly.

For a second year running Clovelly has won the title of Britain’s ‘Floral village’ in the British Tourist Authority’s Britain-in-Bloom competition. Now Clovelly and other winners will compete with their counterparts across the Channel in the first Anglo-French ‘Entente Florale’.

The South Western Electricity Board who are to close their shop at Clovelly at the end of the year were accused of having deliberately run it down at a meeting of Torridge District Council’s finance sub-committee. Cllr Michael Coles said that at one time it flourished but when a manager retired he was not replaced. “It is sad that the rural area should be deprived of this service." The Board wrote that on average the shop dealt with one consumer personally every seven hours.

Mr Jack Johns of 135 Dyke Green, Higher Clovelly, was in his garden when a neighbour told him that his house was on fire.

Frithelstock land and properties for sale.

Some of the children of the choir of St Nectan’s Parish Church, Hartland, have spent a singing holiday in the Southampton area. Their tour was based on the Church of the Holy Rood, at Hill Head, Fareham, where they sang matins, choral eucharist and evensong. They also gave concerts of traditional English church music and, in lighter mood, included a modern jazz setting of Jonah and the Whale.

Hartland Coastguards want some help.

When it comes to roses Hartland county primary school is probably in a class of its own. On coming to the school some 13 years ago, the headmaster, Mr Ted Cross, began introducing roses into the school grounds and gardens. Over the years these have been increased through the sale of garden produce and gifts until there are now around 80 specimens – all different. Now, as part of their environmental studies, the 60 children of the two top classes have a rose to observe throughout the yearly cycle.

Beckland Farm, Hartland, for sale. Later in the month it was reported that it sold for £100,000 to Mr E J Symons, of South Down Farm, Clovelly. Mr Pickard was the vendor.

Building sites off Natcott Lane, Hartland, for sale.

A whist drive was held in Hartland in aid of hospital funds. Winners were Mesdames D Rowe, Cooke, Beer, Westlake, Mr Shute, Miss Westlake, Mr Squires and Mr Allin. There were seven tables in play at a whist drive at Hartland in aid of Liberal funds. Winners were Mesdames S Prust, D Rowe, E Squires, M Beer, H Allin, J Heard, Miss R Westlake and Mr S Branton. Hartland British Legion children held a barbecue.

The shield for the best entry in Bude Carnival, plus first prize in the comical class, were won by the Northgate, Hartland, entry of ‘O-O Jack-a-Privy’s Water Works.’ The Northgate group’s entry had previously won first prize and a cup at Hartland Carnival.

High class dwelling at Worlington, Instow, for sale.

Sir Robert Stapledon, of The Old Rectory, Littleham, who has died, spent 33 years in the Colonial Service, his last post being Governor and C-in-C of the Bahamas from which he retired in January 1964.

The funeral of Mrs Esther Vaggers of Nethercleave, Littleham, has taken place at the Methodist Church. Bearers were nephews, Messrs Gerald Friend, Morley Andrew, Morris Down and John Dennis.

Officers re-elected at the annual meeting of the Littleham Christian Youth Club were Mr Philip Pennington and Mrs D Bromhead, Susan Hockin, John Pennington and Paul Bromhead.

Miss Margaret Caddick’s last day as matron of Fairlea, Northam. She has held the post since 1962.

Mr Arthur Hodgkins, of Burrows Way, Northam, has died, and was for some years chairman of Northam Burrows Committee on which he served for a quarter of a century. For a similar period, until retirement, he had been employed by the former Northam Urban Council. For nine years, including World War II, he served as a sergeant in the RAF Police. For six years he was society steward of Northam Methodist Church.

The ashes of Mr Harold James Braund, a keen golfer, were scattered on Northam Burrows where he spent many happy hours.

So many people wished to join the mystery tour promoted by Northam and District Men’s Forum that it was decided to organise another, to follow a different route. More than 50 members, wives and friends were transported vis Simonsbath to Exford and, after an hour’s stop, on to Dulverton where tea was enjoyed. The return was via South Molton and Torrington.

Rosehill Electrical, Shebbear.

Torrington Town Council are angry that, despite their objections, Torridge District Council are proposing to sell a site near one of the decorative flower beds at South Street car park for an electricity sub-station. The Town Council suggested another site on the car park where the sub-station would be virtually out of sight and cause no obstruction or inconvenience, said the Mayor, Mr Jim Martin. Deciding to continue their objections, the Town Council are again to ask for a site meeting with the chief technical officer and the planning officer of Torridge Council.

Immediately before union convenor Mr Bill Cockram and local shop stewards went into a meeting at Torrington Unigate factory to determine whether to try to safeguard 390 jobs by preventing 128,000 gallons of milk daily reaching doorsteps, Mr Cockram said “I imagine we shall decide to have one more try to get things done peaceably.”

Torrington has been put forward as the only place in North Devon that should benefit under a suggested youth service building programme. At a meeting of Devon Education Committee the youth and community services sub-committee reported that a community centre capable of dual use by young people and adults had been suggested for the town.

Four of the younger members were in the finals at Westward Ho! Tennis Club’s finals day, proving that the club’s youth policy embarked on this year is paying off. But once again veteran Bernard Righi, a previous singles champion, also featured in the matches.

David Priddle, Barbara Payne, Julie Pincombe, Peter Clarke, Anthony Woolf, Jane Peacock, Bernard Righi

Westward Ho! WI were given a talk illustrated by slides on National Trust properties and aims. Mr Bryce, the speaker, was thanked by Mrs Owen, the president. Tea was served by Mrs Ebery and competitions were judged by the evening’s speaker. These resulted: lavender bag – Mrs Ellis, Mrs Littlejohns, Mrs Salmons; flower of the month – Mrs Blackmore, Mrs Woodcraft, Mrs Salmons. Raffle given by Mrs Olde was won by Mrs Salmons.

Purchasers of new property on a six-acre estate at Westward Ho! will also have a share in the amenities which will be provided, including a swimming pool. The development is at College Close …

Since their school pool was opened in June, 17 children of Woolsery county primary school have learned to swim and gained beginners’ certificates. Right from its opening the pool has been in use every school day as well as afternoons during the holidays. It was a real success story, said the headmaster, Mr Richard Chamings. “We are absolutely delighted with the pool and the children’s successes, and of course with the response of parents who were absolutely magnificent in working to get a pool for the school.” Praising the work of the Friends of Woolsery School Association, Mr Chamings particularly mentioned the leadership of Mr John Downes.

September 2000

Pump Lane in Abbotsham once more lives up to its name with the return of a water pump there after more than 30 years. The old pump fell into disuse after the arrival of mains water and was removed in the 1960s. But is has been missed as a focal point at the entrance to the lane, especially by oldest resident Bill Hockin. As a millennium gift to the village the Hockin family has provided and installed a replacement.

Bill with his son and daughter

Modern riverside property – Irsha Street, Appledore.

Investment opportunity in Appledore.

For the first time in generation Bideford is without a fairground for its annual carnival and regatta week celebrations. Disappointment at the lack of this traditional attraction has led to calls for negotiations between local authorities and fairground owners to find a way of bringing it back. Fairground operator Tommy Rowland said his family had visited Bideford regatta for generations and were very disappointed. Regatta committee chairman Ken Hearn said quite a few people had complained to him about the lack of a fair. Town mayor Cllr Noel Deakes also expressed disappointment. A district council spokesman pointed out that the council had not increased its charges. “Nothing has changed, we are charging the same rent for the same period on the same site.”

Space age for the carnival.

Ladies Circle go intergalactic

The Tucker family go on an aliens day out

Jo Howson will be exchanging her car for a canoe when she tackles the waters of the great River Amazon in a fundraising expedition for charity. It may be a bit more gruelling than Jo’s last big journey – a trek across China which included tackling the Great Wall. Jo, a quality assurance manager from Bideford, is one of 1,500 people who have signed up to the Global Charity Challenges programme. Jo has another tough task between now and September. She has to raise £2,000 sponsorship to take part in the trip.

A smoother and quieter surface is in prospect for the busy A39 road between Fairy Cross and Waytown near Bideford. But motorists will have to be patient as two months of work is carried out on the carriageway.

Anglo American Vulcanised Fibre of Clovelly Road, Bideford, is hit by skills shortage.

Staff at Pollyfield Centre at East-the-Water, Bideford, could hardly believe their eyes when they saw what was dumped outside the social centre. It was no optical illusion. What caught their eye was a large cast-metal telescope – the coin-in-the-slot variety often seen seaside promenades. “We have reported it to the police, who have checked that it is not from our nearest resort of Westward Ho!” said the club’s social club chairman John McKenzie.

Plans for the biggest new housing development in Bideford’s recent history are to be revealed at a public exhibition in the town. It will show concept proposals in a development brief by M Baker (Property Services) Ltd of Exeter for up to 950 homes straddling the East-the-Water Industrial Link Road, which is currently under construction. The exhibition will show an initial layout for 28 hectares of land at Salterns. It includes between 750-950 homes; a site for a possible primary school; playing fields; and open space, including conservation and wilderness areas.

The Old Coach Inn, Market Place, Bideford.

Victoria Park Bowling Club in Bideford celebrated its golden jubilee and the occasion was marked by a visit from Torridge and West Devon Liberal Democrat MP John Burnett, who bowled the first wood in a celebration match.

Members of the Bideford and Instow Railway Group welcome the arrival of a diesel locomotive at the former Bideford Station. The arrival of their first loco is a milestone for the railway enthusiasts who already have a variety of carriages and a railway museum set up at the site. The diesel was brought to Bideford from South Wales by a splinter group of local enthusiasts who formed the Torridge Diesel Locomotive Company.

A neglected plot of land near the primary school at Bradworthy is to be transformed into a focal point for the village thanks to a grant of £2,000 from the Hanson Environmental Fund. It will go a long way towards paying for the creation of a millennium garden.

Buckland Brewer property for sale.

Eighty Torridge youngsters enjoyed a special day out at The Milky Way Adventure Park at Clovelly. The treat was also a ‘thank you’ to the volunteer helpers of the Homestart project, based in Bideford.

Scuba divers on holiday in North Devon who lost their gear in the sea are appealing to whoever first came upon one item washed up at Clovelly – a bin bag. A wave hit their boat as they crossed Bideford Bar heading for Lundy. Their clothes were in two black plastic bin bags and were swept away. Their delight when the police told them one of the waterlogged bags had been found on the beach was soon dashed. Because in it had been several hundred pounds and it was gone. “It was our holiday money and had been tucked in the pocket of a pair of jeans for safety. We’re just hoping that whoever took it will have a twinge of conscience and return it” said a member of the party.

A flag now flies proudly over the Byeways Bowling Club in Fremington. It marks the club’s autonomy since taking on the lease of its green and facilities from the parish council. The occasion was marked by a dedication ceremony performed by the Vicar of Fremington, the Rev Paul Hockey. Club chairman Roy Hall said “When we formed the club five years it did belong to the parish council. Only in the past two yeas have we gained full agreement for the club to take over. Now we have a flag of our own.” Members watched as greenkeeper Ted Baldwin raised for the first time the flag carrying the club logo of Tarka the Otter.

Rev Hockey, Ron Ellison, Roy Hall, Penny Baldwin, Des Symons and Doreen Watts

A Fremington grandmother has been chosen as the community’s first Citizen of the Year. The award has been presented to Mrs Maureen Hockridge who has run the Beechfield Youth Club for nearly seven years and is also a leader with the local St John Ambulance Badgers and a volunteer Lollipop Lady.

The bravery of a Hartland coastguard is being recognised with a double award presentation in the village. Auxiliary coastguard Jonathan Tape will receive the Chief Coastguard’s Commendation and a Royal Humane Society award for his action a year ago in saving a man from a cliff ledge. The Chief Coastguard’s Commendation is also being presented to the whole of the Hartland Coast Response Team. The award ceremony will take place at Hartland Royal British Legion Club.

Final releases at Lilybridge, Northam.

Making equestrian history together are a nine year old Northam rider and her mount who have qualified for the Horse of the Year Show at Wembley. Pony Toya Tinkerbell is owned by Sally Jobson-Scott and is ridden by her daughter, Vanessa – winner of more than 30 championships with her four-legged friend.

Two Northam ‘water babies’ – Lydia Cawsey and Sam Mead. And, four other achievers – Amy Gooding, Sarah Gardener, Michelle Dymond and Sam Petty.

Even the landlord will be among former pupils of Parkham Primary School when they hold a reunion at the Coach and Horses in Horns Cross. Mine host Martin Wonnacott is eighth from the left in the front row of the smiling line-up of 40 years ago. He expects many of the school’s old pupils will turn up for the reunion. “Most still live around here” said Martin whose sister Marilyn is also in the picture. Sadly, the school’s two teachers Mrs Thomas and Mrs James are no longer alive.

Mayor of Torrington Cllr Bernie Wittram was joined by friends in a colourful weekend walk for charity. Dressed as zany television characters The Simpsons they walked from Torrington to Barnstaple, stopping off to meet other North Devon mayors en route. Our picture shows the group at Bideford, where the mayor, Cllr Noel Deakes, carefully refused a bulky brown envelope offered by Mr Wittram dressed at the dubious Simpsons character Mayor Quimby. Then it was off to Northam to meet the mayor Cllr Andrew Eastman before boarding a boat to Instow. It is hoped to have raised £1,000 for the Mayor of Torrington’s Appeal fund. Mr Wittram was joined by Jerry Symons, Linda Davis, Chris Tattersall, Linda Lidster, Alistair Kimber, Graham Brown, Brian Pitts and Dave Gibbons.

Pupils of Great Torrington Community School will be going to the cinema to see Grease next month. It will be the first of a series of after-school visits to the pictures at The Plough Arts centre thanks to a grant won by the school’s English department. The idea is to encourage the pupils to watch films they would not ordinarily go to see to increase their knowledge of media terminology. Discussion groups will be held after each visit. “There is the possibility that this project will become a benchmark for similar projects nationwide and we are very excited about it,” said head of English, Gill Clayton.

Few among the thousands watching the Great Fire of London on Torrington Commons knew that at the heart of the inferno some unique memories were being made. ‘Cooking’ in a shallow pit were 32 small pots inscribed ‘Fired in the Great Torrington Bonfire 2000’. They are the work of potter Helen Bailes who has a shop in Torrington market and who took up the suggestion of having a go at firing them. The two biggest pots have already been earmarked, one for Torrington Museum and the other for a fund-raising charity raffle.

Ocean Park, Westward Ho!

Four new flats for older people being built in Westward Ho! are nearing completion. The development in the grounds of The Chalet residential care home will provide four one-bedroomed self contained flats, each for two people. Cost of the project being built by Pearce Construction is put at £163k and was partly paid for by a social housing grant from the Housing Corporation.

Winkleigh Open Day.

Phoenix-like a new power station is getting set to rise from the ashes of the old one at Yelland beside the River Taw estuary. It would burn natural gas. It would take up less than half the space of the old station and it could be working by 2004. The ‘Yelland Energy Centre’ costing £200 million is proposed by Rolls Royce Ventures Ltd on a five-acre site.

Years Ago - August

August 1925

We start August with another advert for the well-dressed man about town. This time H F Elliott of 75 High Street is encouraging him to update his sports clothes.

Married women teachers.

Fire at Abbotsham Barton, a farm tenanted by Mr Andrews.

Rick fire at Kenwith Barton.

A very large seam of anthracite coal has been found in Alverdiscott district at a comparatively small depth. This is the result of a systematic search undertaken by those who recently acquired Bideford Paint Mines.

Alverdiscott church tower repaired.

There is an old font at the Alverdiscott Parish Church, which has been standing there for many years, although it does not properly fit, and obviously does not belong to the pedestal on which it stands. It would be of interest to many to know whether the font originally belonged to another church in the district or not. The Rector, Rev A H Oak-Rhind, would welcome any information. Later in the month …

The Chancellor of the Diocese has appointed the Vicar of Appledore, Rev H C A S Muller, a Surrogate, which carried with it permission to issue special licences for marriages, etc.

Good coverage is given to the Centenary celebrations of the Appledore Lifeboat Station, one of the oldest on the British Coast. As readers will know, the 200th anniversary fell this year.

Presentation for PC Ernest C Perrin after his 17 years stationed at Appledore.

Appledore Congregationalists hold a successful fair in aid of a fund for church organ repairs and the provision of a new primary room. Intended to be held in the Holt Field (by permission of the Hon. Denys Scott), …

At the recent School Examination of the Associated Board of the RAM and RCM, Rose Harris and John Smith, pupils of Miss E Davison, passed in the elementary division. Perfect school attendances – Appledore Senior Council School

Another of the fast diminishing number of the genuine old mast and yards and deep water sailors has passed away recently in the person of Captain George Eastman, who in his later years had conducted the Prince of Wales Hotel at Appledore with much success, and the large assembly from far and wide at his funeral spoke of his popularity and the great respect felt for him and his family.

The death occurred at Adelaide, South Australia, of Miss A Holland at the age of 79. She was the only surviving sister of the late Mrs M Lawday, of Appledore.

Two hundred and sixty three years ago the Independent Church was born at Appledore. Sermons were preached by the pastor, Rev A C Brockett, and a special choir repeated the anniversary hymns. The church was beautifully decorated. Miss Beara presided at the organ.

Considerable indignation was expressed, both by residents and the general body of visitors alike, when it was found that during the night vandal hands had disgracefully disfigured the very fine and greatly admired marble statue of Kingsley, erected by public subscription at the end of the Quay Parade and near the entrance to Victoria Park, Bideford.

Wireless demonstration at the Kingsley Statue, Bideford.

The funeral of Mr Frederick Richard Bettiss, whose death occurred at 7 Grenville Terrace, Bideford, took place at the Church Cemetery, East-the-Water. The Rev C B Crofts officiated. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Messrs A R Adams and Son.

A campaign to raise a special fund for the provision of a Children’s Ward at the new Bideford and District Hospital was successfully inaugurated at a largely attended and representative public meeting, called and presided over by the Mayor, Dr E J Toye and held in Bideford Town Hall. The meeting was a gratifying reflex of the public interest in the project, and augurs well for the successful issue of the effort. Before the close of the meeting the Mayor announced that about £100 had already been promised towards the £2,500 required. A full list of the people attending and supporting this endeavour is given in the Gazette of 4 August.

Bideford and District Hospital gifts.

By the death at Bideford of Miss Louisa (Nurse) Arnold, there passed away one who for 21 years gave devoted service to the Bideford and District Hospital in its earlier days. When in Dr King’s time a small infirmary was added to the Dispensary, Miss Arnold had in her charge four or five beds at the Institution. In the 1887 Jubilee, when a removal was made to Meddon-street, Miss Arnold went there in charge of 22 beds, and held the post of Matron until her resignation in 1905, when she was succeeded by Miss White. Miss Arnold continued private nursing in the town for many years, and by her cheerful kindness endeared herself to many hundreds of Bidefordians.

Bideford Harbour Act – cost increased by opposition.

The Misses Smith are to be congratulated on their enterprise in transferring their business of tea rooms and café to the Quay. Their new shop front would do credit to any town, and instead of detracting, is an assist to the quay-front, and then finished with the specially designed swing sign with the little red house above which will continue on the name of “The Red House Café” it will be one of the most interesting fronts in North Devon. It is understood that shortly they propose keeping open in the summer months to late in the evening for the sale of ices, fruit and cream, coffee, etc. which is a much needed want for residents and visitors in the town. The architects for the alterations were Messrs Orphoot Whiting & Bryce of Bideford.

At Bradworthy, there was a record attendance at the annual show of the Poultry and Horticultural Society held under the presidency of Major E J W Spread, OBE, MC, and the exhibits were nearly double those of last year, the quality being excellent. Messrs F Basdon and F J G Bryant were the joint secretaries.

The United Methodist and Wesleyan Sunday School scholars, with their teachers and officials to the number of 125, visited Westward Ho! for their picnic. They were favoured with excellent weather. The arrangements were made by Misses Wade and G Martin.

Master Donald Arthur, infant son of Mr and Mrs C Jenkins, of Cleverdon Farm, Bradworthy, was taken suddenly ill and although medical attendance was immediately forthcoming, the child passed away. Much sympathy will be extended to the sorrowing parents in the great sorrow and loss.

Bradworthy news.

Stuart Braund, of Bucks Cross, who was a Bideford Grammar School pupil, passed an examination for Aircraft Apprentice, held recently at the University, Exeter.

Mrs Susan Braund, of Bucks Mills, is mourned.

The funeral of Mrs A Pinnock, Home Lodge, wife of Mr J Pinnock (butler to Mrs Hamlyn, Clovelly Court) took place at All Saint’s Church, amid manifestations of sincere sympathy and regret. Always of a bright disposition, she had a host of friends, by whom she will be sadly missed. The utmost sympathy is felt in the parish for the bereaved relatives. The impressive service was conducted by Rev T J V Simkin. The grave was beautifully lined (by special request of Mrs Hamlyn) with moss, white sweet peas, with asparagus sprengerii, the work of Mr H Tuke, head gardener Clovelly Court.

Good takes of mackerel were reported at Clovelly. One boat belonging to Capt Pengilly caught between 500 and 600.

The steamer Velindra brought visitors to Clovelly.

At the flag day organised for Frithelstock fo the Devon Cancer Fund, emblems were sold by Misses O Johns, B Hookway, O Ford, G Johns and Groom. The amount raised was£4 1s.

At Frithelstock, the funeral of Mrs Harris took place at the Free Church Cemetery, the Rev E P Groom officiating. Although harvest was in full swing, a large number of friends met to pay a last tribute to one who had lived in the parish for many years. A memorial service was held in the United Methodist Church.

Mrs Ellen Pyne, is leaving Hartland’s New Inn at Michaelmas. She will be succeeded by Mr A B Kingsley of Mill Street, Bideford.

Hartland Benefit Nursing Association has issued its 30^th report which shows that £125 was paid out during the year, but the balance in hand increased from £46 to £53. There are over 20 subscribers. A picnic in aid of the Hartland Nursing Association was held at Blackpool Mill.

At the Nursing picnic bowling, Alfred Bailey won the fowl and Eric Oke won the pig.

There was a fine display of exhibits at the Hartland Cottage Garden Show but the inclement weather considerably affected the attendance. A feature of the show was the splendid lot of vegetables. The Hartland Brass Band played upwards of 200 children to the Deer Park, where the prizes were presented by Mrs Grenfell. Mr R Yeo, of Northam, judged the vegetables and flowers; and Mesdames Gregory, Grenfell and Wilton the needlework and bread; the sports judge was Capt Dudgeon MFH; starter for the athletic events, Mr F E Stephens, of Bideford; and for horse events, Mr Wm J Pillman. There were several relays at the public tea at the Palladium. Mr J Andrew Burrow as MC at the ball and in addition to the programme by the Band, Miss Lott, of Alwington and Miss Buchell, of Clovelly, played the piano.

Kivell & Sons offered Biteford farm at the King’s Arms, Hartland. Put up at £1,400, bidding ceased at £1,800, for which the owner, Mr John Henry Prouse, refused to sell.

The funeral of Mrs A E Williams, elder daughter of Captain Dark, of Instow, who was drowned while bathing at Biarritz, took place at Biarritz where she had for some months been residing with her husband, who was formerly for many years chief accountant on the North Eastern Railway, and their family.

John Parkhouse, of Instow, was summoned for driving a motor van to the danger of the public at Fremington. He pleaded guilty.

The following children of Littleham worked very hard in connection with the Lifeboat Flag Day and are much to be congratulated on their success: Norman Westaway, Willie Upton, Laura Cook, Violet Smale, Marjory Cook and Cyril Lyle. They collected £1 10s for this most excellent cause.

Captain Dainting, accompanied by Captain Hargreaves has visiting Lundy and inspected the rocket apparatus, which was exercised, under the superintendence of Lieutenant Sleep, RN, and the Inspecting Captain expressed his entire satisfaction at the smart way the apparatus was handed.

The question of Lundy being purchased by any person not a British subject is raised in the House of Commons.

The steamer ‘Neath Abbey’ made an excursion from Bideford to Lundy Island, although there were not more than 60 people on board. When starting on the same trip from Barnstaple the boat went aground in the river and the passengers had to be taken off.

Hon. F D Acland speaks at a Liberal fete at Monkleigh.

Household furniture from Quarry, Northam, for sale.

A link with older Northam has passed away in the person of Mr John Littlejohns, who died at his residence in Cross Street. The deceased was a well known figure in the village and very highly respected. In his younger days he was a ship’s carpenter and made many voyages in that capacity in the old sailing ships. He was a staunch supporter of the Conservative Party, being the oldest and one of the founder members of the Northam Unionist Club. He leaves a widow and several sons and daughters to mourn their loss and will be greatly missed by a large circle of relatives and friends.

Parkham Garden Show and Sports invariably attracts large entries, and this year will prove no exception to the rule. Horse and foot events will again be a great attraction and the number of side shows should be larger than ever. The arrangements have been undertaken by a strong committee, and given fine weather, the show should prove a huge success. Later in the month ... …

The wedding has taken place at Rowden United Methodist Church of Miss Bessie Ward of Southcombe Farm, Shebbear, and Mr Edgar John Hocking. Rev William Bennett officiated. A large number of friends witnessed the ceremony. Luncheon was partaken of in the home of the bride. The wedding presents were numerous and costly.

East Badworthy, Shebbear, is for sale.

The paper of 4 August carries two columns of extremely small print recording Shebbear College’s annual prize day. As this event usually happens in mid-July it is possible the article got overlooked and has had to be squeezed in!

A fire took place at Halwill Farm near Stibb Cross. This farm is occupied by William Brown. The fire crews discovered that the nearest water source was over 1 mile away so the rick was completely destroyed.

The new Torrington to Halwill railway has passed its initial stage satisfactorily. The service at present is limited but the number of trains running will be increased over time. However, the action of Southern Railway in making the Barnstaple to Torrington line a branch line, necessitating a change at Barnstaple, comes in for much criticism.

At Torrington, Mr John Short dug a stalk of Great Scott potatoes from his garden, which, although having only four tubers weighed 5lbs 12 ozs. The largest was 2lbs 2ozs.

At a special sitting of the Torrington Borough Bench, before Messrs G Chapple, M Chapple, H Tavener and S Webber, 3 men were brought up in custody, arrested the previous day, charged with causing a disturbance in the public street. Two were charged with being drunk and disorderly in New-street. PC Liddon proved the case. Apparently, an altercation took place between a number of men in the street. When he went and tried to part them they got him under and his uniform was torn. On getting free he arrested one, and after persuading one to go home quietly, he became very disorderly and was also taken into custody. One was fined 25s and the other, 20s. The other man was charged with wilfully obstructing the police in the execution of their duty. Defendant pleaded not guilty. PS Kingdon said when the police were struggling with the other defendants, he rushed at the police and acted like a madman. Defendant, who had nothing to say, was fined £2 10s and 2s 6d damage for uniform.

In imposing fines of 10s on two men charged with using obscene language, Torrington magistrates intimated that the objectionable offence must be put a stop to. Evidence was given in the respective cases by PC Ford and PC Lyddon.

In the wide road near Torrington Cottage Hospital, Mr William Hammett, Relieving Officer for Torrington and District was motor cycling towards the town from the direction of St Giles, when Richard Long of Torrington was motoring in the opposite direction. They unaccountably came into collision and Mr Hammett was conveyed to the Hospital in an unconscious condition and suffering from a broken collar bone. Mr Long escaped with a severe shaking and minor cuts.

At the recent examination for the secondary schools, Ernest Balkwill and Maud Hearn, scholars of the Council School, Torrington, were both successful in winning their scholarships. At the recent School Examination of the Associated Board of the RAM and RCM, the following pupils of Miss Elsie B Lile were successful in pianoforte playing – Kathleen Broad, John Trigger, Leslie Nancekivell, W Kenneth Dennis, Kathleen Parsons, George Crocker.

The funeral of Mrs M E S Fowler, of Revetta, Torrington, widow of the late Mr Thomas Fowler, took place, the service being conducted by the Rev Preb F Emlyn Jones.

Torrington and District Constitutional Club and Association will hold a grand fete to be held at Stevenstone Park.

Work had been commenced on the restoration of Torrington Wesleyan Chapel, the committee of the church having accepted the tender of Messrs Grant and Eastmond for £155.

A collision occurred at the bottom of School Lane, near Wear Gifford, between Mr Pratt, a dairy farmer, of Torrington, who was driving a motor car in the direction of Torrington, and Mr H Cooper, of 4 Church Walk, Bideford, a window cleaner who was coming down the hill on his motor cycle. Mr Cooper was taken to Torrington Hospital.

Walter George Wills, smallholder, Westleigh, is summoned and fined.

The Barnstaple troop of Boy Scouts are holding their annual summer camp at Westward Ho! Grimscott United Methodists, instead of going to Widemouth as usual for their annual outing, went to Westward Ho! Considerably over a hundred went by char-a-banc and cars, going through Bideford. Leicester Scouts at Westward Ho! had never seen the sea.

Rev H J Hutchinson leaves Holy Trinity Church, Westward Ho!

At Bideford County Sessions, Mrs Elsie Dawson Lowry, of Thatch Cottage, Buckleigh, Westward Ho! who did not appear, was fined 9s for obstructing the highway with her motor car at Westward Ho! Defendant, who wrote apologising for her absence, expressed her regret at what had occurred, and said she thought the car was close to the pathway. PC Hardy said the car was standing in Golf Link Road, at a point where the road was 18 feet wide. As the car was obstructing 6 feet of the road, it was necessary for him to stay on point duty for three quarters of an hour. When defendant returned she said she didn’t know she had been away so long.

At Westward Ho! Youngaton and the Kingsley Gymnasium are for sale.

The great swimming match came off at the Nassau Baths, Westward Ho! between the well-known champion, W Beckwith and the ‘Westward Ho! Shark’, Mr H V Burn, of Cheltenham College, a gentleman amateur. There were a great many people there for many miles round. The excitement was intense. The terms of the agreement between the parties were to swim 8 lengths of the bath over 15 hurdles for £25 a side.

A day trip from Woolsery to Ilfracombe.

$Aug 1925 Woolsery day trip Ilfracombe$

Signs of the future - Worcestershire sauce and a crystal set from Prance, of Northam.

August 1975

The funeral has taken place at St Helen’s Church, Abbotsham, of Mr Charles Turner, of Coombe, Clevelands Park, Northam. Mr Turner, who farmed Abbotsham Barton from 1931 to 1963, was associated with many local activities. A parish councillor, he was also a member of Bideford Rural Council from 1933 to 1955 and was churchwarden for 21 years and treasurer for seven at Abbotsham parish church. He was one of the original members of Bideford Dairies Ltd and was at one time company chairman. Bearers were Messrs John Ridd, Michael Dymond, George King, Bill Moase.

This was the way in which many competitors made an undignified exit at a wild pony rodeo at Abbotsham. It was organised by Miss Mills on behalf of the Stevenstone Hunt. Winner of the men’s event was Mr Nigel Mather and of the women’s Miss Mary Mathews. A clay pigeon shoot organised by Mr H George was won by Mr J Manley, Mr R Westaway and Mr A Pickard.

After two Appledore girls had been rescued after getting into difficulties at West Appledore a warning was given that a privately-owned slipway which is extremely popular with local people and holidaymakers alike would be closed unless there was better supervision of children using it. Sisters were paddling on the lifeboat slip when they got into trouble. Mr Desmond Cox, Appledore lifeboat coxswain, said “If it hadn’t been for the quick work of Mr Mike Bowden, a member of the lifeboat crew who happened to be watching, and a holidaymaker who went away without giving his name, these two girls might well have drowned. The tide makes the slipway, which is owned by the lifeboat, a dangerous spot and there have been too many narrow escaped recently to let this happen again.”

The funeral has taken place at St Mary’s Church, Appledore, of Mrs Bessie Griffiths, of Irsha Street. She was the widow of the late Mr Charles Griffiths.

No 1 Holt Cottages, Richmond Hill, Appledore, for sale.

Mr and Mrs John Taylor, of Seaways, Appledore, are leaving for California where their married daughter lives. Eventually Mr and Mrs Taylor are to make their home there and he plans to enter business. Mr Taylor has sold his Bideford business of Taylor’s Booksellers in Mill Street which he has successfully developed over the past 17 years. New owners are Mr and Mrs R M Dye. Mr Taylor, Westminster-born and a former Army major says he is continuing his membership of the Royal North Devon Golf Club.

Pilot meets lighthouse keeper. Captain Vernon Harris, chief Trinity House pilot at Appledore, was among the guests when the new Bull Point lighthouse was officially opened and there he met Mr Fred Sherlock, of Royston Road, Bideford, who is now transferring to Lynmouth Foreland after serving at Bull Point for nearly five years.

Some 2,000 years were bridged at Appledore when another colourful, full-scale replica of a historic ship quietly slid into the estuary waters from the yard of Messrs J Hinks and Son. It was an authentic replica of a Roman galley of the type used to invade England all those centuries ago. Named Britannica, it was built to order of Leisure Sport Ltd. and her ultimate destination is a water park at Egham, Surrey. Mrs Timothy Hartwright launched and named the galley.

Yellow lines danger at Appledore.

Mr Brian Pearson, only son of Mr and Mrs Arthur Pearson of Inglewood, Fordlands Crescent, Bideford, has been promoted senior Lloyds surveyor at the important Japanese port of Kobe.

Bideford’s new librarian, Mr Roger Dale, began his duties within a few days of his 26^th birthday. He succeeds Mr David Burwood.

Mrs M Ackland of Landcross, won the Avis Cup for cut flowers at Bideford Cacti and Pot Plant Club show. The blue riband went to Mrs J T Comer for a floral arrangement. She was exhibiting for the first time.

A Croydon firm are moving to Bideford because they have outgrown their existing factory and are finding it difficult in recruiting labour. Trio Wheelgoods, manufacturers of push chairs and push chair hoods, are settling into a new factory on the Alverdiscott Road industrial estate. In Bideford they will employ women as machinists and men on assembly, and plan to build up gradually. Director Mr Sandy Lines of Shirwell told the Gazette that at the moment the home market was depressed but they would be busy on export business of which they did a good deal.

A trawler will be operating in Scottish waters with a hull that has been built twice. Men at Bideford Shipyard are now rebuilding some 30 pieces of hull which was first formed in a yard at Faversham. About two-thirds had been completed at the Kent yard when the company, Southern Shipbuilders Ltd went into liquidation.

For the first time ever the Devon county under-14s water polo championship was brought to North Devon. In a hard fought final Bideford Swimming Club, the northern area champions, defeated Newton Abbot of the southern area 6-5. Scorers were Nick Jones, Robert Paterson and Peter Griffin. Club coach Mr Peter Griffey told the Gazette that he was particularly pleased as the Bideford side had had to train without the facilities afforded to many of the other clubs, especially those in South Devon. “All their training throughout the winter has gone on in a pool which has not even got nets.”

N Shapland, D Jewell, V Hocking, P Griffin, R Paterson, S Parkin, I Mansford, N Jones, P Griffey

Special football attraction – first time in Bideford.

In two play-offs on the same night the Bandits of Lenwood Country Club took the Section B championship of Bideford Summer Skittles League. The first play-off was against the Gateway Girls and the second, against Afterthoughts.

The Bandits and the Gateway Girls prepare to play off

Eleven departments of Bideford Methodist Church made notable contributions to a flower festival promote by Women’s Work with the theme ‘The Living Church’. Each window in the church held an arrangement with the altar providing a centrepiece. Responsible for the planning of the festival and general arrangement was Church member Mrs M W Underill. The three day festival, which was in aid of the Women’s Work Fund of the Methodist Missionary Associaiton, ended with a service of thanksgiving led by Mrs Mary Elliot.

Mrs Doris Miller, who has been cook-supervisor at Pynes County Infants’ School, Bideford, for some 11 years has retired. At an end-of-term celebration she was the recipient of presents and thanks for her work. The children gave her a sun bed and folding chair; the staff a gift token; and the canteen staff a coffee pot.

Crisis avoided at Bideford School as Mr John Dare, the headmaster, says “There are no problems at all.”

Helping to preserve the past are these boys from Bideford County Secondary School. Under the supervision of a master, Mr F W Vowler, they have been assisting with the renovation of a number of exhibits in the North Devon museum Trust’s collection of ‘farm bygones’ at Alscott Farm, Shebbear.

In the picture are Brian Dennis, Steven Dunn, Peter Dunn, Alan Money

Mothers of youngsters attending a summer holiday playgroup at Westcroft School, Bideford, have been forming a human barrier across the busy A39 trunk road to Clovelly as a safety precaution. They did so after being told that the flashing road sign used during normal term time could not be switched on and that they could not borrow a lollipop patrol’s uniform and ‘stop children’ sign. “We decided to take action ourselves rather than take the risk of one of the children being killed or seriously injured” said Mrs Jeanette Lawrence, a member of the parents committee formed to operate the playgroup. She pointed out that over 200 children were crossing the road four times a day.

The Department of the Environment would be unlikely to approve an area of Bideford – of which Bull Hill is part – as a general improvement district, because of the generally high standard of the dwellings. Chief environmental health officer Mr John Richards told the Housing Committee of Torridge District Council this following a detailed inspection of all the houses.

The grounds of Woodville, Bideford, were made available by the Misses Haime for the friends of Bethel Free Church to hold a garden party. It was opened by Mr Brignall, the former pastor, and the speaker was Miss Enid Parker, of the Red Sea Mission team. About 90 were present and some £80 was raised. Thanks were expressed by Pastor Benger for all the work that had gone into the effort.

Mr Ted Wilson of Brennacott Road, Bideford, is up before the lark.

An appeal was made for sightseers to keep well clear when rescue operations are taking part around the coastline. It came following an incident at Bucks Mills when rescue services were hampered by crowds of holidaymakers as they tried to airlift to safety two badly injured boys.

Miss Maureen Thomas, of Bucks Mills, has just been promoted to become the first Woman Observer Officer locally in the Royal Observer Corps.

Bucks Mills Society rebuffed by Torridge Council.

Bomb found at Clovelly.

Water tankers could ease Clovelly supply problem.

A Clovelly man has struck gold. Mr Philip Higginbotham, of Slerra, an ironmongery warehouse manager employed in Bideford, won first prize in a Bostik trade £1,000 ‘gold rush’ contest. His forecasting of future business gained him a British £2 gold piece dated 1887 and currently valued at £180. He will hang on to his prize – at least for the time being.

Clovelly, last year’s winner of the village class of the Britain in Bloom contest, has again been chosen as the West Country’s finalist. It entered the competition for the first time last year, when it also won the best kept village award, and so far this year has gone one better by winning the Abbiss Trophy, which is open to all cities, towns and villages in the South West.

Mr Frank Short of Stoop, Higher Clovelly, was a member of Clovelly Royal British Legion. The funeral took place at Clovelly Parish Church. Messrs J Searles, C Littlejohns, J Jewell, A Turner, L May, B Littlejohns, K Cook and F Jewell were bearers.

Best in show award at Dolton and Dowland flower show was won by Mrs D Piper. The show attracted more than 530 entries and drew many holidaymakers as well as a large number of local people.

Winners at a whist drive in Dolton Village Hall were Mrs G M Smith, Mrs F Heaman, Mrs E Mardon, Mrs F Weeks, Miss A Nightingall and Mrs E Drayton.

After 20 weeks of training, instructor Mr F Jennings can be more than satisfied with the ten keen young bellringers who will augment the regular members of Dolton’s bellringing team. Mr Reuben Clements, one of Dolton’s best known residents, who died at his home Pear Tree House was a bellringer for 85 years. He was captain of the Dolton tower and a well-known bellringing judge.

Fremington Training Camp job advert.

Frithelstock frolic raised £170 for village hall funds. It was opened by Mr George Jenkins of Bideford and formerly of Frithelstock. He was the longest serving secretary of the village hall – from 1958-1966. Mr W Hunkin, chairman of the village hall, welcomed him and Mr Jenkins was presented with a buttonhole by David Lawrence.

At Hartland Point lighthouse, bounded on three sides by the sea, it could have been a case of water, water everywhere but not a drop to drink. The borehole which has been providing fresh water for the lighthouse has suddenly run dry. The three lighthouse keepers and their families are now relying on deliveries of water by tankers normally used for transporting milk to and from Unigate Dairies at Torrington. But thanks to a water diviner it is hoped that everything will soon be back to normal. Work already progressing as the lighthouse living quarters will mean extra protection from the winter storms for principal keeper Ronald Smith and keepers Dave Price and Colin Bale and their families. At a cost of around 31,000 the quarters are receiving double glazing.

Mr E Short had a field day at Hartland’s annual garden show. He carried off the special awards for best exhibit, best local exhibit and for most points in the vegetable classed by a local exhibitor. Other special awards went to: A R Weeks, Mrs S Heard, Mrs J Clark, Andrew Heard and Mrs S Heard.

No shortage of glamour at Hartland Carnival.

‘Big Daddy’ wins at Hartland.

Mr Allan Higgins, proprietor of the West Country Inn Hartland, is wondering whether he should add a phrase to the inn’s brochure “Landing strip available but regret no VC10s.”

The death has taken place of Mr William Upton at Trellick Farm, Hartland. Bearers were Messrs J Bragg, D Bragg, T Old, G Daniel, G Upton, D Hooper, nephews.

There was a British Legion Guard of honour and the coffin was covered by the Union Jack when the funeral took place of Mr Edward Dennis, of Berry Farm, Hartland. He was well known locally as a boxer pre-war and during the war he served as a sergeant in the Royal Devon Yeomanry. He farmed at Berry for a number of years. Bearers were Messrs B Kelly, D Jeffery, B Allin, J Thorne, J George and C Beer. The funeral has taken place of Mr Theodore Beer, of Cullen, Harton Cross, Hartland. He was in business as a baker and grocer for 34 years and in his younger days played football for Hartland. Until recently he was an active worker for the local cancer campaign and for the Hartland Over 60s Club. Bearers were Messrs Braund, Downie, King and Scott. There was a family cross and a posy from his four granddaughters.

Proposal to establish an 18-hole golf course on land at East Yagland, Hartland, by Flight-Lieut Lagnado was given conditional approval. This was linked with an application for a chalet holiday centre development on the farm.

When a landmine was discovered on Instow beach, in a pool in which children were plaing, Auxiliary Coastguard Mr John Oliver of the The Lobster Pot “using a very long rope” dragged it to a less frequented part of the beach.

The funeral of Mr George Hearn of Putshole, Langtree, took place at Stibb Cross Methodist Chapel. Interment was at Siloam graveyard within view of Mr Hearn’s home for 47½ years. He removed there on his marriage in 1928.

In Littleham, Miss Aileen Badcock, organised St Swithin’s Church outing to Fowey. Two coaches were filled with Sunday School children, parents and friends.

Four 11-year-old boys from St Margaret’s School, Northam, raised 327 by a Saturday morning sponsored swim. Lester Bird, Jonathan Dare, Richard Hutchings and Neale Blackburn between them covered 1,250 metres in the school pool. At their suggestion the money will buy aids to be used in the teaching of swimming at the school.

Household effects from Dolphin Court, Northam, for auction.

Burrough Farm at Northam should be used for housing only if that did not jeopardise the provision of a new secondary school there. This was the view reached by Torridge District Council’s Housing Committee despite a plea from the chairman, Cllr Mrs Honora Broad, that members should ‘try to think of this purely in relating to housing.’ Cllr Clifford Coates said the committee needed the land 100% but houses meant people and people meant children and this was the best possible site for a school.

The last surviving member of a family who were connected with tin mining on Dartmoor, Mrs Ethel Annie White, of Cross Street, Northam, has died. Born on Dartmoor, she moved to Northam in 1960. She had a lifelong interest in music and was organist at Postbridge Methodist Church from the age of 12 and then at Northam, where she was also the pianist for the Women’s Bright Hour and the over-60s Club. Cremation took place at Barnstaple of Mrs Hilda May Curtis who died at her home, Castle Street, Northam. She was the widow of Mr George Curtis. Messrs A Griffey and Son made the funeral arrangements.

A plea for the preservation of old names was made by Preb Edmund James at a meeting of Torridge District Council’s Development Committee. The former Northam Urban Council had agreed in principle that a road extension to serve new development at Diddywell should be named Cowpark, but the district council’s Housing Committee wanted it called Morwenna Park Road.

The funeral has taken place at St James’ Church, Parkham, of Mrs Winifred Stoneman, of Nattimoor Farm, Buckland Brewer. A former organist of Parkham Church, she was the wife of Mr John T Stoneman. Bearers were Messrs C Fowler, M Fishleigh, P Horn, V Brown.

Rev Anthony Ware who has been on the staff of Shebbear College for seven years is returning to Prince Edward Island, Canada, where he began his Methodist ministry. At Shebbear he was head of science.

Some 90 people attended a garden party at the Manse, Stibb Cross, by invitation of the Rev and Mrs B Earley, and £62 was raised for the Women’s Work department of the Missionary Society of the Methodist Church. The event was opened by Mrs L Godden of Bristol and Mr Godden gave slide shows in the chapel. Teas were served on the lawn and there were several stalls.

“Didn’t we do well?” Dean Rawlings and his pet, Abercrombie, after winning a first at Torrington Fun Night dog show

Mr Joe Fairclough first director of The Plough, Torrington, is returning to work in the theatre. For the time being his place will be taken by Eric Moss, well known as the leader of the Soloheim Mungaash New Orleans Jazz Band.

The funeral of retired council worker Mr Lewis Johns of Well Street, Torrington, has taken place at St Michael’s Church, Torrington. Bearers were Messrs P Symonds, A Walters, Wallace Johns and Frank Lake. The funeral took place of Mrs Bessie White of Mill Street, Torrington. She was the widow of Mr J White.

Hymns from the Methodist hymn book provided the themes for a three day flower festival at Torrington Methodist Church which raised £200 for church funds. The festival was the idea of Mrs M Daniel and the arrangements the work of 34 ladies, most of them members of the Atlantic Flower Club whose chairman in Mrs J Littlejohns. Sunday school children also had their special section. The anniversary and festival ended with a concert by the Whitstone Male Voice Choir.

An unusual guest found at Kipling Tors, Westward Ho! held at Bideford Police Station.

Members of the Royal North Devon Golf Club’s ladies team competing in the semi-final of the Still Cup at Torquay rated their chances of making the final so slight that they contemplated spending the afternoon shopping. But they confounded the experts by beating the favourites, Churston. Details: Mrs Kate Brown lost 3 and 2; Mrs Phyllida Youngman won 6 and 5; Mrs Joan Evers won 2 and 1; Mrs Mark Hooker lost on the 19^th; Miss Winsome Fulford lost 2 and 1; Mrs Margaret Fulford won 2 up; Mrs Peggy Fourt won 2 and 1. RND 4, Churston 3.

A petition bearing 47 names against the proposed change of use of a holiday flat to a licensed club for Mr A Taylor at Kipling Terrace, Westward Ho! was presented to Torridge District Council’s Plans Sub-Committee. Members refused the application on the grounds of increased traffic hazard, unacceptable access, inadequate parking and that it would be prejudicial to amenities. There was also a direction from the County engineer that the application should be refused.

Prior commitments by some of the regular entrants led to a disappointing entry of five tableaux and only a handful of mounted and walking characters in Westward Ho! carnival. But early disappointment for the organisers was dispelled when it was found that the carnival raised £175 for cancer research, an increase on last year.

Two young Westward Ho! boys hit on a spectacular way to show how well they had progressed since they took up swimming 18 months ago. Unprompted Gary Clarke of Swanswood Gardens and his friend Richard Hall, decide to do a sponsored swim in aid of Cancer Research. And they found their own sponsors. As a result they handed to Dr Roger Hunt a cheque for £76 which they raised by swimming 42 lengths of the Lenwood Country Club pool, a distance of one mile.

Annual donkey derby organised by Bideford area Conservatives at Westward Ho!

B&B opportunity in Westward Ho!

August 2000

Plans for North Devon’s first wind farm of 37 turbines across the hills in an area between Barnstaple and Ilfracombe will go to the government for approval. The site measures 3.5 miles from north to south and 1.25 miles at its widest point east to west across Fullabrook and Metcombe Downs.

An open gardens day at Abbotsham raised £550 for the chemotherapy unit at North Devon District Hospital. “In the past two years many villagers have needed the unit, myself included” said Ruth Redmore, who organised the event. She thanked Mr and Mrs D Pinney, Mr and Mrs S Hore, Mrs M Elliott and Capt and Mrs C Graham for opening their gardens. There were thanks to Mr and Mrs George Smale who provided cream teas and their granddaughters Zoe and Shana for entertaining.

Mrs Redmore handing over the cheque to Dr Richard Ayres

Alwington farmhouse for sale

Children stole the starring roles in Appledore Carnival delighting in their parts on floats, as walking characters and even in pushchairs. Among the youngest were Brandon Harris as Winnie the Pooh and Olivia Jones as the Lost Boy and Emily Westlake as Tinkerbell. There were characters of The Wizard of Oz and in fitting nautical theme, Margaret Hotchkiss, Mary Harper and Tracey Harper depicted the Owl and the Pussycat.

Brandon Harris

Barbara Potter, Carol Brown, Mark Woolaway, Sue Lindley

Appledore carnival queen Laura Millard with attendants Jodie Wrey and Katie Ford and fairy queens Ruby Walsh and Natalie Michael in the big parade through Appledore.

The rising time of good news at Appledore Shipbuilders continues with the announcement of another new order worth around 11 million. It brings the yard’s current order book to £76 million and guarantees work there for more than two years. The new order is for a platform supply ship for the Greek company Toisa, which has its headquarters in the UK and for which Appledore has already built two identical ships.

An explosion and fire which ripped through a mobile home in Bideford has prompted fire safety experts to issue advice to gas users. A gas leak is believed to have been the cause of the explosion and blaze which destroyed the residential caravan and most of its contents. The male occupant was away from the site on the Kynochs Industrial Estate. Two fire appliances from Bideford arrived to find it engulfed in flames. While firefighters were unable to save the caravan they prevented the flames from reaching Liquid Petroleum Gas cylinders.

Feet have played a large part in the life of Brian French. For nearly 45 years he has run a practice as a chiropodist in Bideford and for 21 years he used his own feet to good effect as a playing member of Bideford Football Club!

Methodists in the Bideford circuit are preparing to bid farewell to their Superintendent Minister and to welcome a new one. After eight years in charge of the 13 churches and chapels, the Reverend Peter Nock is retiring. Reverend Jane Ashplant, from Surrey, will be welcomed as the new Superintendent.

A millennium wish for the world and other messages from local school children will be among a wide variety of objects and information being buried in Bideford. Victoria Park will be the venue for the burying of a time capsule. One of the millennium events being organised through the chamber of commerce, the stainless steel capsule will contain the children’s messages, a town guide, memorabilia of local organisations, shop items, a locally produced Christian magazine, newspapers, information from a town medical centre, chamber of commerce minutes, a millennium coin, computer disk, Pokemon cards and other items which paint a picture of the town in the year 2000. All are being contained in a capsule made at Appledore Shipbuilders, with the burial spot marked by a piece of engraved local stone.

Hats fit for the Queen Mother made the annual get-together of residents from Moreton Avenue, Bideford, a royal affair. They were made by the residents who gathered on the green in the middle of their development to enjoy a barbecue and games, a raffle and a quiz. The event was organised by Moreton Avenue Neighbourhood Watch.

Ann Sargent, Sally Wetherill, Christine Burnett, Una Denton, Ruth Benny, Jennifer Sargent

Exclusive range of apartments for sale in Bideford.

Huffing and puffing will bring back happy memories to the scores of visitors expected at Bideford Railway Station’s free Open Day. The sights and sounds of trains that ran between Barnstaple and Bideford on what is now the Tarka Trail will be recalled in a living condition. Children can ride along a section of relaid railway on a vintage pump trolley of the kind made famous in the St Trinian’s films. “Gangers whizzed to and fro on it in the 1870s, maintaining the line,” said Lewis Andrews of the Bideford and Instow Railway Group.

Bideford Railway Station Open Day

River Cruise from Bideford Quay with the Dill Pickles

Steps to Stardom, Children of the World, was the title of the summer concert at Buckland Brewer Community Primary School. Every ticket was sold and the audience thoroughly enjoyed the entertainment provided by children aged from three to 16. The event was held to raise money for the Friends of Buckland Brewer School.

Fans boycott concert at the Milky Way, Clovelly, with the organiser, Bill Kneebone, blaming apathy and lack of support from local fans. Billed as a star guest, Sir Bob Geldof could not attend. Mr Kneebone said it was too early to think of a repeat venture for next year.

Fremington youngsters are celebrating the completion of their long-awaited BMX track. At an informal ceremony parish council parks and playing fields chairman Rodney Cann and vice-chairman Dave Harris handed over the track at Griggs Field to waiting young bikers and a ribbon was cut on their behalf by Josh Hooper. It has been sited on part of the village’s Griggs Field millennium project, where fields are being transformed into a parkland style amenity area, with seating and planting of trees.

Since taking the plunge to set up their own swimming school, Dawn Kearney and Debbie McKenzie have guided hundreds of local youngsters, both at their own academy based in the Fremington School pool and as volunteers at local swimming clubs. Now with 360 children on the books the Dawn and Debbie Academy is going through a period of change. With Debbie and her partner moving away, Dawn has been joined by Neil Paddon of Bideford, already well known as a long-established and successful athletics coach and a voluntary swimming teacher with the Torridgeside Swimming Club.

Residents of Hartland and surrounding communities again combined to provide a cracking carnival. From the troubles of Team Philips and the sell-off of the Millennium Dome to The Naked Chef and the wedding of Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston, the procession through the village maintained the Hartland tradition of topicality as well as depicting old favourite characters. In addition to Hartland Town Band there was a marching jazz band, Samba band and a pipe and drum band. Leading the way was Hartland’s trio of royal tableaux featuring Carnival Queen Samantha Bissett and her attendants Kirsty Rowe and Sarah Heard, Fairy Queen Clare Pomeroy with attendants Tara Stowell and Olivia Short and pre-school Prince and Princess Aiden Toase and Autumn Talman.

Instow Primary School has so many good features.

Pirates have made a colourful return to Lundy. More than 60 residents of Appledore brought echoes of the island’s past as the haunt of raiding buccaneers when they landed there. The costumed group took with them local pub landlord Graham Stone, whom they shanghaied from the Beaver Inn for a mystery 40^th birthday treat. Landing on Lundy the group laid claim to the island and searched out some of its history on a pirates’ tour under the guidance of local historian Terry Bailey.

Jonathan Fisher, Glyn and Jan Onione

An Appledore man is searching back more than 1,000 years, hoping to highlight stirring memories of the community’s past and to set up an attraction for its future. Local historian Terry Bailey is on the track of the Vikings. In particular he has been searching for the Hubba Stone – the legendary stone marking the burial spot of Hubba the Dane, whose warriors plundered the North Devon coast in the 9^th century. Convinced Lundy holds the key he has spent two years researching and scouring the island. Now, with the cooperation of Lundy agent Paul Roberts and The Landmark Trust, Terry has earmarked a large granite slab found on the island and is planning on transporting it back to the mainland.

Northam coach house for sale.

Parkham property for sale

Torrington Citizens’ Advice Bureau has moved house. The bureau has left its base at the council offices in South Street to take up residence at the new Castle Hill complex, where it has a first floor office.

Magnificent men and women will be landing at Belle Vue Airfield near Torrington for a get-together on September 2. It is the annual fly-in held by the Devon arm of the Popular Flying Association and will include a whole range of light aircraft, among them some from the vintage years of flying. The occasion will be shared with Huntshaw Village fete.

Torrington’s spectacular Streets of London bonfire will not enter the record books as the biggest in the world – because it is too big! After two years of building, the Torrington Cavaliers have created representation of the Pudding Lane area of London, famous as the scene of the 17^th century Great Fire of London. But hopes of it reaching the Guinness Book of Records have been abandoned for safety reasons. “We could have beaten it” said Cavaliers’ chairman Dave Kelly. Later in the month …

Mayor of Torrington Bernie Wittram will become one of the comic characters from the television family The Simpsons for a fun walk with a serious aim.

The weather may not have been on its best behaviour, but it failed to spoil the enjoyment of the crowds who flocked to the North Devon Show, held near Torrington. There was lots to see and do for all members of the family, just as the organisers had promised. “Considering the problems that the farmers have had, it’s amazing the number that have visited us today” said the show secretary Tim Webb.

Weare Gifford property for sale

An eight-day music and arts festival to celebrate the millennium begins in Westward Ho! Presented by the Festival Committee of Westward Ho! Chamber of Commerce, the programme has been put together with the help of a grant from the Millennium Commission. And the good news is that admission is free! The festival is being held on the putting green at the seafront and promises entertainment for all tastes and ages.

Denver Spur will be taking part in the Westward Ho! Millennium Festival

Westward Ho! residents decided to give their full backing to calls for the attempt to build a sewage treatment works at Cornborough to be abandoned. Instead they want South West Water to fall back on an earlier plan to build the facility on Northam Burrows and link it with a long sea outfall pipe. The decision comes as Britain faces legal action by Europe over beaches with polluted bathing waters – among them Westward Ho!

Chrismas comes but once a year – unless you live in Westward Ho! that is. Traders in Nelson Road pulled out all the stops to recreate the festive spirit in the middle of summer. Christmas dinners with all the trimmings were available and Santa Claus himself, complete with little helpers, was in his grotto to greet children. It was the traders’ contribution to the highly successful Millennium Festival.

Fans of television’s Coronation Street will get the chance to own some pretty special memorabilia if they attend a charity auction in Winkleigh. Among the hundreds of lots to be sold in aid of Devon Air Ambulance at the Seven Stars public house will be a cocktail dress worn by Sally Webster and one of Curly’s suits. Both items have been authenticated by the man submitting them for auction – Ben Whittaker, who just happens to be Sally’s dad! They are among several other Coronation lots – including a complete script of one episode and a Newton and Ridley beer mug – which Bob hopes will contribute to a record total for the event. Bob, who has lived in Winkleigh since 1986, helped to start the annual charity auctions in the Seven Stars in 1994.

There was a successful switch for the long-established Woolsery and District Agricultural Show which made its debut on a new site at The Milky Way, near Clovelly. Visitors arrived in good numbers and the new showground provided an ideal viewing gallery for the livestock, arena competitions and trade stands. Shire horse and cart rides, falconry and sheep dog demonstrations, a craft tent and a variety of static stands and trade stalls all helped to strengthen the flavour of the countryside for local people and for holiday visitors. In keeping with the charity tradition show president Royston Johns presented cheques for £760 each to representatives of the Marie Curie and Macmillan charities, funds from last year’s profits.

Vicki Meeson with the show dairy champion, Lynsay Venturi

Woolsery property for sale – attractive gardens.

Music will fill the night air in Woolsery to raise funds for Headway North Devon, which offers support for local people with head injuries and their families. The music night at West Villa Farm features the bands Wilderland, Choke and Mystery Band, plus a barbecue, free camping and parking.

Years Ago - July

July 1925

Control of the Coastguard.

Cycling offences for Stacey John Bucley, Bideford; William Mills, Bideford; Arther Fee, Torrington; James Johns, Taddiport; Richard Gomer, Wear Gifford.

Abbotsham news.

Abbotsham Cottage Garden Show was held in the grounds of the Rev E Dansey, Kenwith. About 1,000 people entered the grounds, 500 sitting down to tea.

Fete at Alverdiscott with outspoken criticism of the Government’s policy by Rt Hon George Lambert.

Funeral at Alwington of Miss Bessie Goaman, daughter of a farmer at Hartland.

It has been learnt with pleasure that the Bishop of Exeter has become a vice-president of the Seamen’s Christian Friend Society, of which The Hanson Memorial Sailors’ Rest and Mission at Appledore is a branch. The launch at Appledore was recorded of a three-masted brigantine from Mr Cox’s shipyard. She was built for the Newfoundland trade, and was christened ‘Minnie’ by Miss E Cox.

PC Perrin, who was for many years stationed at Appledore, where he was held in high esteem, and latterly at Bickington, has, on completion of his service, now retired from the Force. His many friends wish him long life and happiness.

The bell-ringers of St Mary’s Church, Appledore, go on a trip.

Flower and Egg Service at St Mary’s Church, Appledore.

Narrow escape for the son of Mr John Mills of Vernon’s Lane, Appledore.

Mr Michael Howard and Miss Kathleen Bennett are married at Appledore.

An Appledore Marine Parade improvement.

The funeral of Mrs Sarah Ann Short, widow of the late Mr Isaac Short of New Quay, Appledore, took place amid manifestations of esteem and respect. The ceremony performed by Rev A C Brockett at the Congregational Church was of a very simple but impressive character.

There is relief that Royal Assent has finally been given to the Bideford Harbour Act.

There is a long report of Bideford Horse Show in the paper of 21 July, with all the results given over three tightly packed columns of newsprint. For the first time the show was held on a Wednesday instead of on August Bank Holiday and the experiment seems to have been justified through a much higher level of attendance and entries.

The first advert that caught our eye was from W J Cording and Son, Bideford, promoting their tailor made suits, highlighting the fact that back in the day men wore suits as a matter of course.

Shop keepers in the Gazette area are being warned to be on the alert as counterfeit £5 are in circulation in the region. R Dymond and Son are selling by auction a donkey, complete with jingle and harness. Mr A G Bromley, of Bromley’s Cafes, Ltd, Barnstaple and Bideford, has been elected on the Council of the National Association of Master Bakers, Confectioners, and Caterers.

The many services which Mr F A Searle has rendered to the town and district during his 38 years’ residence in Bideford, his unfailing courtesy, and the invaluable help, his sound advice, encouragement and assistance have been to many members of the local business and professional community, were testified to with much sincerity at the Town Hall. Mr Searle had been Borough Treasurer for about 32 years. He had lived in Bideford about 38 years and had been Manager of Fox, Fowler & Co’s Bank (now Lloyds) for about 32 years. He had also been Treasurer for the Northam Urban District Council and Bideford Union, and Bideford Grammar School.

Engineer Lieut. Commander H W Ascott, the only son of Major W Ascott, OBE, of Buttgarden Street, Bideford, has been gazetted Engineer-Commander.

The story of an attack on the manager of the local Labour Exchange, by an out-of-work labourer, in a principal thoroughfare of the town was told at Bideford Borough Sessions when Mr W T Braddick, Queen Anne’s, summoned a man with common assault. The man had issued a cross-summons. After a retirement, the Bench found the first case was proved and the maximum penalty of £5 was imposed with a month allowed for payment.

A collision took place on the blind bend at Westcombe Corner in Bideford, involving three vehicles. A 14 seater charabanc driven by John Henry Fry overtook Mr E Hocking’s car on the bend. The charabanc then found itself faced by a 20 seater charabanc owned by Hardy-Colwill and coming from Westward Ho! The resulting confusion took some time to resolve. Mr Fry was found responsible and fined £6-5-0 including costs. At Bideford Borough Sessions before the Mayor and other magistrates, Messrs Bartlett, Bayliss and Co. Ltd, Bideford, timber merchants, were summoned by HM Inspector of Factories for a breach of the Factory and Workshops Regulations, 1922, in failing to fix a cylindrical cutter block to a planing machine. Mr T Oerton, junr, appeared for the defendants.

Miss Hilda Pearse, of Allhalland Street, has been successful in obtaining the degree of Bachelor of Science in the recent examination of the University of London. Miss Pearse was a student at University College, Reading, and was formerly a pupil at Edgehilll College.

Leonard Claude Guillaume, of Bideford, is saved.

Bideford and District Hospital in Meddon Street is for sale.

Nos 25 and 26 Bridgeland Street, Bideford, for sale.

Bideford Head Post Office will be open a half hour later each weekday, telegrams being received until 7.30pm. In the course of a few days an automatic stamp vending slot machine will be placed outside the Head Office which will enable persons to purchase stamps when the office is closed.

Chimney fire at Burridge Court, Meddon Street, Bideford – Mrs Middleton is helped to safety.

About 200 parents and friends were present at the annual sports of West Bank Girl’s School, held at the cricket field, Westward Ho! under ideal weather conditions. Interest was taken in the competition for the school challenge cups which were eventually won by B Routley (senior) and J Nixon (junior), and also in the contest for the house shield, which was secured by Grenville House. The prizes were presented by the Mayoress of Bideford, Miss Keene, an old pupil of the school, who was thanked by the principal, Miss Abbott.

A smart “information for visitors” board will shortly be erected near Bideford Bridge End giving brief particulars of attractions such as the Long Bridge, the Free Library, Chudleigh Fort and Victoria Park.

By the kind invitation of Mrs Corbett the members of the Bradworthy Women’s Institute held their monthly meeting in the grounds of West Down House. An enjoyable evening was spent, and the Games Committee are to be congratulated on the way in which they arranged the sports, games and competitions. The prizes were distributed by Mrs Wilson.

Smithlands at Bradworthy for possession.

A party of 120, in charge of Mr Cole, and consisting largely of the Buckland Brewer school children went to Westward Ho! on an outing during the week. The weather was all that could be desired.

Buckland Brewer Garden Show and Sports.

Later in the month …

Frederick Moore of Bulkworthy is fined 3s.

Raising funds at Clovelly.

Clovelly motor accident.

Much sympathy has been expressed with Mr and Mrs Thomas and family, Coastguard Station, Clovelly, on the serious illness of their eldest son, Stanley.

Clovelly Turnpike fire at the house occupied by Mr and Mrs Arthur Beer and their aged mother.

The annual Hartland Wesleyan outing took place. Mr William’s char-a-banc conveyed the party of 22 through much beautiful scenery, Kilkhampton, Holsworthy, Hatherleigh, Okehampton and its Castle, Lydford and its famous Gorge, Lewdown, Lifton, Launceston and its Castle, Whitestone were enjoyed in ideal weather, with ample pauses at the most interesting points. Home was reached about ten.

At the Devon Quarter Sessions, Sir Trehawke Kekewich presiding, two seamen – Bennett and Reynolds, were charged, at Hartland, breaking into the store belonging to the County Council, and stealing two pairs of rubber knee boots, both pleaded guilty. Mr A Hawke, for the prosecution, said that Bennett had bene convicted on three different occasions for trivial offences under different names. The Chairman said that as Bennett had been previously convicted he would receive six months hard labour. There were no previous convictions against Reynolds, so he would go to prison for six weeks in the second division.

Pattard, Hartland, to be let.

Biteford at Hartland for sale.

Farm sale at Hartland. After the cattle market, Kivell and sons offered for sale Higher Welsford and Thirley marshes for Mr Jesse Jeffery, of Gorwin. Lot 1 – 5 enclosures west of the main road 30 acres. Started at £400 and sold to Mr W Heard, of Warmleigh, for £600. Lot 2 – 7 enclosures east of the road, 61 acres. Started at £300 and sold to Mr T H Pomeroy, of Nertherton for £450.

There is now no hearse at Hartland, the only one in the village having been sold to Sidmouth, where it was removed. Is this evidence of the low rate of mortality at Hartland?

Mr Jabez Howard, who carried on the blacksmith business at Elmscott, nearly 30 years, in succession to his uncle John Britton, has been unwell for a couple of months. He tried to get a bed in an Exeter hospital for an operation but there was no vacancy. Dr Walters, locum tenens for Dr Kay obtained his admission to an institution in London. The day after the operation Mr Howard had a relapse and died, aged 52. Great sympathy is shown with his wife and family. Mrs Howard has herself been long afflicted.

An accident befell Mr William Vanstone of Stoke, whilst at the Hartland Point improvement work. A pick axe glanced and went right through his boot and foot. First aid was rendered and later Mr William Gifford, of Milford Hill, took the injured man home in his trap.

Miss Ellen Medland is Holsworthy’s ‘pretty maid’.

In aid of the Parish Hall Building Fund a charming and successful little garden fete organised by the Rector, Rev C E Davis, MA, and Mrs Davis, with the assistance of leading and active parishioners, was held in the Rectory Grounds, Huntshaw, and was very well patronised by visitors from a wide area. Explaining the object of the fete the Rector said they all knew they had recently opened a Parish Hall and inspection of it was invited that afternoon. They had spent on it about £450 in addition to the site and the stone for the building. The site was given to them by Lord Clinton, who gave the stone also, and the farmers hauled it from the quarry in the wood. Towards the money cost they had practically raised £400. As some of them knew, they had had some very kind help, especially from two old Huntshaw boys who had made good in the world.

A garden social and tea at Tapely Park, Instow.

Miss Beatrice Lovell, a pupil of Miss C C Dark, of Instow, has passed her elementary examination in pianoforte.

Mr Hosegood of Bideford was fined £3 and costs for driving a motor charabanc at Instow to the danger of the public. Gladys Sprague, summoned at Braunton Divisional Sessions for riding a bicycle without a light at 11.35pm on June 13^th, did not appear. PC R L Gammin, stationed at Instow, gave evidence and a fine of 5s was imposed.

The police have taken action in regard to the danger caused by broken glass, etc. on the sands at Instow. The defendant in last week’s police case probably had some justification for his plea that he did not know he was doing wrong – an illegal wrong, of course – in smashing up a glass bottle where pieces would be a danger to children at play, and others lightly shod. For he had only to look round and see cartloads of similarly dangerous debris. The very nature of a lot of the rubbish includes old pails, tin cans, glazier’s glass and shards of household utensils and shows that the residents have been using the place, and especially nearer end of the sandhills as a dumping ground.

At Devon Quarter Sessions before Lord Coleridge, Colonel Moore-Stevens and Mr J Halse, a seaman pleaded not guilty to charges of breaking into the dwelling house of Henry T Shepherd at Landcross, and stealing a gold and diamond ring, suit of clothes, pair of boots, pair of stockings, and pocket knife, the property of Mr Shepherd; also with stealing a gold and diamond ring, a gold ring and pearls, together of the value of £36, the property of Edith Shepherd. Prisoner denied a charge of having received the goods. He said he had applied to the police to call witnesses on his behalf.

The police instituted inquiries as a result of which PC Huxtable found in a field a suit of clothes, which prisoner subsequently identified as his property, after being apprehended on the Bideford road, when he put his hand in his pocket and produced the three rings spoken of.

On Monday, July 20^th, a flag day in aid of St Dunstan’s was held at Littleham, when the following children acted as collectors: - Phyllis Beer, Joyce Colwill, Laura Cook, Marjorie Cook, Lizzie Gliddon, Hilda Hearn, Enid Lyle, Barbara Northcote, Ada Stevens, Phyllis Smale, Viole Smale, John Cole and Cyril Lyle. The Mistress has since received a letter from the Divisional Secretary of St Dunstan’s gratefully acknowledging the receipt of £2 10s, as a result of the sale of flags.

Messrs Knight, Frank and Rutley (in conjunction with Messrs Ellis, Son and Bowden) are instructed to sell practically the whole of Lundy Island, the area coming under the hammer being 1,047 acres.

Rev Gibbins visits Lundy.

Appledore lifeboat out to Lundy searching for a Brazil steamer.

Preaching at St Helena’s Church, Lundy Island, the Vicar of Appledore referred to the great sorrow that had befallen Captain Dark in the death of his daughter, Mrs Williams, at Biarritz, Spain. Captain Dark and his son Captain Fred Dark had for many years maintained an efficient service between the Island and the mainland, both in the Gannet and now in the Lerina. During the service…

At successful jumble sale was held at Petticombe, by the kindness of Gen. and Mrs Gwyn-Thomas, who were assisted by several willing helpers, the Monkleigh and District Nursing Association will benefit by £13 13s.

At an auction at Tanton’s Hotel, the freehold residence Elmfield situate in the parish of Northam, was withdrawn at £3,750.

News has been received with regret of the death of Mr Frederick Turner which occurred at Deanoyers Street, Montreal, Canada. Mr Turner lived formerly at Tower Street, Northam, and was a member of the postal service staff for 21 years, emigrating in 1911. He leaves a widow, six sons and three daughters. The late Dr Joseph Bower Siddall, of Malvern, and formerly of Conibear, Northam, whose death took place on July 4^th, was one of the original members of the Royal North Devon Golf Club, and whilst living in the neighbourhood held the post of President. He was also the founder of the Union Club, Westward Ho!

Midnight blaze at Messrs Hardy-Colwill’s Garages, Northam. As a result of what appears to have been an electric wire fusing, fire broke out between the Pill and Chanter’s Lane, causing damage to the extent of £300. The blacksmith’s shop, electrical stores were destroyed but through the timely efforts of volunteers who hurried to the scene, some still wearing their night attire, valuable property and machinery were saved.

The distribution of prizes to the students at the Northam Evening School took place in the Northam Schoolroom. There was a large attendance. Major General Sir Murray Irwin presided and emphasised the importance of education.

In the compulsory liquidating of the Hansen Shipbuilding and Ship Repairing Company, Limited, of Cleavehouses, Northam, Mr G D Pepys, Official Receiver, has issued to the creditors and shareholders a summary of the Court’s statement of affairs, which shows that there is no possibility of any dividend for the unsecured creditors. Sir Sven Hansen attributes the failure and insolvency of the company to the abnormal depression which arose in the shipping industry shortly after the company was incorporated.

Later in the month …

Mothers’ Union fete at Northam.

Northam Burrows invite the Potwallopers.

Later …

(As a child and teenager one of our volunteers remembers going “potwalloping” with her father and grandfather and schoolfriends.)

The annual summer conference of the Bideford and Torridge District Sunday School Union was held at Parkham Wesleyan Church. The conference was opened by Mr W E Ellis, the subject being ‘The Child in the School or the Man in the Street.’ A helpful conference followed, amongst those taking part being the Vicar, the Rev S A Hensley. A large company partook of the excellent tea provided by the friends of Parkham. After tea a good number took advantage of the Vicar’s kind invitation to inspect the Vicarage grounds.

We regret to record the death of Mr John White, of East Badworthy Farm, Shebbear, following an operation. He was a man always ready to do a kind turn and was beloved by all who knew him. The internment took place at the United Methodist Cemetery, Rowden. The Rev W Bennett officiated. The immediate mourners were Mrs S Davey, Miss E and M White, Mr W and A Davey, Mr and Mrs S Sanders, Miss Mary Wheeler. The bearers were Messrs J Brooks, R Arnold, J Wheeler, J T Pett, snr, E Bond and M Underhill.

Owing to double-dipping regulations in force at present, no sheep are able to enter this month’s Stibb Cross Market. At other markets and auctions, sheep can be sold if double dipped and accompanied by the correct forms. However, the county has now been declared free of Foot and Mouth disease and the final restrictions have been removed.

Talking points at the Torrington Town Council - planning for Goose Green, Torrington.

Torrington-Halwill railway line opened to public passengers.

Before the Mayor, Mr G M Doe, Messrs Webber, Moore, Penhale, Chapple and Taviner at Torrington, a man, on remand, was charged with unlawfully breaking into St Michael’s Parish Church, Torrington, and feloniously stealing 6s, the moneys of the churchwardens.

At Bideford County Sessions, Mr Spencer Vivian, draper of Torrington, (for whom Mr Reginald Boase appeared) pleaded ‘not guilty’ to driving a motor car to the danger of the public in Monkleigh Village.

Whilst cutting a cabbage in the garden, Mrs Harold Bowden (Warren Road, Torrington) was surprised by the appearance of a large viper. It measured 3 feet 3 inches long.

The engagement is announced between John Sydney Hughes (late RAF) and Henrietta Aline Stubington, youngest daughter of the late Mrs H T Stubington, The Priory, Westward Ho!

At Northam Manor Court the coast erosion at Westward Ho! and the damage to the Pebble Ridge by the sea were discussed at some length. Hearty approval was given to a recommendation of the Jury that the annual throwing back of the pebbles from the Burrows on to the crest of the Ridge should be resumed, and Capt Wicksteed, Chairman of the Burrows Committee, appealed for the earnest cooperation of all parishioners in the organised effort. Numerous promises of provisions etc. for refreshments has been received.

At the Bideford and Westward Ho! Show, held at Westward Ho! there was a large exhibition of horses, dogs, Channel Island cattle, mules, donkeys and goats. No less than 2,500 people entered the show ground and over 100 horses and 162 dogs were entered. The meeting was the best ever held by the Society, Mr Reginald Molesworth was hon. Secretary and Mr E Partridge, secretary. About £120 was taken at the gate. A tournament took place after the show in the Great Nassau Bath.

No 3 High View Terrace, Westward Ho! for sale.

Woolsery Agricultural Show – fine effort damped by continuous downpour.

July 1975

Council house building grinds to a halt.

A collection of Victorian clothing and embroidery is being made on a South West regional basis with a view to forming a travelling exhibition in aid of the Arthritis and Rheumatism Council for Research. Already, Mrs Winter of Rixlade, Abbotsham, has given a set of baby clothes from her father’s family and it is hoped to have these on show at a coffee evening for the cause, being held at Chircombe, Bideford, by permission of Mr and Mrs Arthur Pridham.

A Red Cross sale of new and second-hand clothes, etc. organised by Mrs G Winter and held in Abbotsham parish hall, raised £130. The total is nearly double that of last year.

Bulworthy Farm, Alverdiscott, for sale.

Michelle Jones, of Appledore, and Joanna Welch, of Yelland, raise £42 with energy to spare.

Appledore and Instow regatta history.

Homeward bound for Mr and Mrs Jeffery Clarkson, of Irsha Street, Appledore.

Mr Edmund Bond of Alpha Place, Appledore, who has died after a short illness. was apprenticed to the late Mr Charles Gibson at Westward Ho! and took a keen interest in golf. For some time was professional golfer at Datchet and after returning to live in North Devon was head greenkeeper at Westward Ho!. During the war he served in the Royal Air Force.

The funeral of former shipyard manager Mr Philip Harris of Devonia, 3 The Quay, Appledore, has taken place. Mr Harris had worked with the firm P K Harris all his life apart from a few years as a ship’s carpenter with the Reardon Smith shipping company. He was a prominent member of Appledore Sailing Club. Bearers were nephews Messrs J Craner, A Daniel, B and L White.

Mr Emlyn Williams is to be the new headmaster of Appledore County Primary School which has just over 200 pupils. He will succeed Mr Bob Curtis who retires at the end of this term after 17 years at headmaster.

Eleven cadets were enrolled and five probationers welcomed at the annual inspection of Bideford St John Nursing Cadets at St John House, Bideford. The inspection was taken by Miss Grant who was accompanied by Mrs Packard and Mrs MacCaig. The inspecting officers and Mrs Patricia Needs were presented with bouquets by the youngest cadets. Cadet cups were presented to Cpl Y Parish and Cadet A Mathews. Various certificates were presented by Miss Grant to J A Adams, J Bowden, J Cann, F Cook, L Cock, A Curtis, A Fishleigh, J Fishleigh, L Fishleigh, S Hole, J Hooper, P Hooper, C Leatt, A Mathews, M Mitchell, Y Parish, B Schulhof, A Short, D Slade, M Spearman, M Strong, J Stephens, P Stephens, J Summers, C Symons, J Thurlow, S Vanstone.

Safe driving awards under the auspices of the Road Operators’ Safety Council have been presented to Bideford Western National bus drivers. Awards – G E Kelly, R A Parker, J H Elliott, W R Langdon, C H Williams, J O Morrish, E C Wakeley, R J Dymond, L M Ford, A Badger, R C Branagan, G Burns, B J Cole, A C Glover, W J Jeffery, R Kilbride, G Squires, D A Watton and T R Whitty.

The fate of Bideford’s Bull Hill area, seen by conservationists as ‘an irreplaceable part of the town’ and in part by Torridge District Council’s Housing Committee chairman as ‘a bit slummy’ still hangs in the balance. Controversy over whether 14 cottages there should be demolished and the area redeveloped has raged for years. And the district council’s Policy Committee, by a narrow majority, agreed to further delay.

Later in the month …

The flag of Bideford Amateur Athletic Club has been at half-mast mourning Mr Reg Backway who for practically 70 years was actively associated with the club in many capacities. He had been club captain and president. Mr Backway, who lived at Elmdale Road, Bideford, would have been 80 in October. For over 50 years he was company secretary to Heard Bros. Ltd, of Bideford, and their successors, retiring two years ago.

A former Mayor of Bideford, Mr Arthur Beer, is the new President of Bideford Rotary Club.

Clive Foss is off to Africa.

Home from New Zealand for the first time in 17 years and busy greeting relatives and old friends is Mr W A (Bill) Cork, one of the four sons and four daughters of the Cork family of Adjavin Farm, Bideford. A six-footer plus, rugby enthusiasts will recall him as a formidable player at the Grammar School and with Bideford Chiefs and he played for Devon in 1946.

Two former pupils of Grenville College, Bideford, were among 179 officer cadets recently commissioned from Sandhurst. They were Martin Metcalf and Anthony Brown-Hovelt.

New police chief, Inspector David Hicks, for Bideford.

Drive to provide new pavilion for Bideford Grammar School.

It was uphill work for children of St Joseph’s School at Bideford Stella Maris Convent. Having collected silver foil since December 1971 they still had only £50 to show for their efforts on behalf of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association. But it was different when they on the level – in Bideford Sports Ground – for a sponsored walk. Infants and juniors raised £441. In the picture some of the walkers are seen after a cheque had been presented to Mr Hayden Thomas, by pupil Jeannette Patt. He was accompanied by his seeing eye, Envoy.

Miss Margaret Durant, who has been a member of the teaching staff of Pynes County Infants’ School, Bideford, since it opened in 1955, and its headmistress for the past 13 years, retired at the end of term.

Holyrood House, Bradworthy, for sale.

Despite the weather Buckland Brewer combined churches fete proved so successful that gross receipts totalled £580. After expenses a profit of £470 was realized – a new record and over £100 up on last year’s figure.

Buckland Brewer emerged as clear winners when the Bideford area sports for smaller rural primary schools were held at Westward Ho! Buckland finished with 58½ points, followed by Abbotsham and Westleigh, and then by Monkleigh, Parkham, Clovelly and Woolsery.

Clovelly lifeboat was called out to search an area NW of Lundy after a May Day distress call was picked up by a coastguard station in the early hours. But nothing was found and the search was called off shortly after daybreak. The call is believed to have been a hoax.

Clovelly is one of 54 resorts given a dishonourable mention in the Consumer Association’s ‘Which’ because untreated sewage is pumped into the sea just below low water mark. Remarkably, Westward Ho! where the situation must be infinitely worse, is not listed. The Consumers’ Association indicates that little appears to being done about the situation and claims that more money should be spent.

During the hottest summer for years perspiring Hartland schoolchildren had been able only to gaze with longing at the swimming pool staff and parents provided with the aid of a County Council grant five years ago. The pool had been placed ‘out of bounds’ by the authorities because the filtration plant had not been serviced. Complaints to the county architect’s department proved ineffective.

Hartland retain Revel cup.

At a whist drive held in the WI Room, Hartland, in aid of Tennis Club funds winners were Mesdames Jeffery, J Haggar, M Allin, Messrs S Branton, Houchin, Allin, M Allin and G Jeffery.

Instow County Primary School had a handsome winning margin in carrying off the Torridge area schools sports title for the fifth year in succession, the ninth time since 1966 and the tenth time since the competition was started in 1961. The cup was presented by Mrs Audrey Mayoh, chairman of the Instow school managers, to the Instow team captain, Stephen Beardsley.

The first rain for weeks fell during the opening of Littleham fete and continued until teatime. But in spite of the rain more than £400 was raised for redecorating the inside of the Parish Hall. There was the usual wide variety of attractions. Stallholders were: Mr and Mrs J Bromhead, Mr and Mrs M Gouldsworthy, Mesdames C Cook, D Hill, G Barrow, T Cooper, F Wise, E Nichols, G Hearn, W Johns, G King, S Fishleigh, F Turner, C Lester and members of Littleham Christian Youth Club. Refreshments were by Mr and Mrs D Willis, Mr and Mrs R Blight, Mesdames G Short, D and R Brend, R Headon, R Clements, M Smale. Miss Wendy Griffey won five first prizes in the under-12 classes …

Every picture, it is said, tells a story – but here it could be two. Taken at Littleham fete, the woebegone expression on the dog’s face reflects the rain that at last decided to fall; the somewhat puzzled one on the child’s face could well fit the question “Rain? What’s that?”

Auction sale at Monkleigh Village Hall.

Dutch elm disease was striking very hard in the Northam area and efforts would have to be concentrated to keep it from spreading beyond the district, Northam Town Council have been told.

A Tree Preservation Order is to be placed on ten beech trees at Northam, it was decided by Torridge Council’s Development Committee. The committee were told that this had been requested by Miss P Arnold, of 3 Highfield, Northam. The trees were on a hedge at the rear of her house which forms a boundary between her property and Muddix Farm, Bay View Road. They were of some amenity value not only to Miss Arnold but to her neighbours.

Minister of Northam Methodist Church, the Rev H Maurice Hart, has accepted an invitation to continue after his present term expires next year.

A North Devon Yacht Club member will be off to Spain as a member of Great Britain’s sailing team in the European championships. Formerly Miss Rosa Bassett, Mrs Lamey is the daughter of Mr and Mrs Thomas Bassett of 34 Tadworthy Lane, Northam. A regular competitor in North Devon Yacht Club races, she has an International OK yacht at Appledore.

Mr Percy Reed, of Northam, won the coveted Carnegie Silver Challenge Bowl and the Blue Riband for the best exhibit in Northam Horticultural Society’s 58^th annual show to achieve an ambition he had held since he began to exhibit there soon after World War II.

Mrs Marjorie Ford, of Midways, Long Lane, Northam, whose funeral has taken place at Appledore Methodist Church, worked during the war as an inspector in an aircraft component factory. She took an active part in fundraising and other activities of Northam Methodist Church and in recent years had been a keen supporter of Bideford Amateur Athletic Club. The funeral has taken place at Northam parish church of Mrs Hilda Littlejohns, formerly of Homeleigh, Burrough Road, Northam, She was formerly an active member of the Mothers’ Union at Northam. Mr James Nelson Arnold who has died at his home, Cross House, Northam, had been in practice as an optician at Bideford, Hatherleigh, Holsworthy and Torrington for many years. A Freeman of the City of London, previously he was at Richmond and Kensington and the family came to this district for the Domestic Poultry Keepers’ Council and organised cricket matches for Servicemen. He leaves a widow, a son and three daughters. The son and a daughter live in New Zealand. The funeral of golfing enthusiast Mr Richard Jewell of 3 Seaview, Morwenna Park, Northam, has taken place at Northam United Reformed Church. Mr Jewell was a member of Northam Artisans’ Golf Club and in his younger days had been a scratch player. He worked as yard foreman at W J Lamey and Sons.

About £275 was realized at the annual fete organised by friends of St Margaret’s School, Northam, and opened in the presence of a large crowd by Mr Jeremy Thorpe, Liberal leader and MP for North Devon. A team of young gymnasts demonstrated bar and mat work, and box vaulting. Paula Oke showed that even the smaller children could cope with seemingly difficult activities. Susan Eastmond, Kirsteen Mansford, Timothy Jarvis, Stella Oke, Louise Thompson, Shirley Daniels and Tony Hughes performed solo gymnastics. The headmaster, Mr George Harrison, has trained the children, many of whom had won badges from the BAGA.

“I’ve got one1” In an unusual fishing contest Peter Passmore hooks a lemon

Parkham holiday bungalows scheme refused.

Members heard at the first annual meeting of the re-formed Parkham branch of the North Devon Liberal Association that during the year £80 had been raised for Party funds. It meant that the quota had been doubled, said the divisional agent, Mrs Lilian Prowse, praising a fine effort. Election of officers – Mr G M Marsden, Mrs Butson, Mr Sam Kellett, Mrs Rowe, Mr Hockin.

One hundred per cent rate relief for this and the next financial year is to be granted to The Plough entertainment centre at Torrington – “to give them a chance to get going.” This was decided by Torridge Council’s Finance and General Purposes Sub-committee. The matter will be reviewed at the end of the two years.

Mr Brian Jones, new President of Torrington Rotary Club, is a founder member. Born at Sheepwash in 1929, he was educated at Shebbear College and later at the University College of the South-West where he obtained a BSc honours degree in geography. He played rugby and cricket for the University. He returned to the home farm in 1950, was married in 1955, and became a partner with his father until his death in 1958. Since then he has farmed alone and expanded the farm to its present size of 500 acres.

Contents of 20 Castle Street, Torrington, for auction.

Contents of Little Furze, Warren Close, Torrington, for auction.

Alexandra Rose Day in Torrington realized a record of £132 plus. This is the fifth year Mrs Dorothy Pollard has organised the collection and each year the previous total has been exceeded.

Keenest of the competitors in Torrington Cavaliers’ sponsored raft race was Norwegian Jan Grieg Gran. He flew from Zurich just to take part and his raft was last but one to finish. He received a letter from his friend Tony Riley, of Bideford, to say “The raft race is on, are you coming?” Their entry was the Gypsy Muff. The only vessel they beat was The Barton Cutter. Both entries were put to shame by the Barton women’s crew, made up of Barbara Riley, Linda Hancock, Betty Cox and Linda Waldron. Their craft, the QE Poo came home first in the women’s event in a time faster than many of the men.

The first 18 one star badges to be awarded in C Company, Devon Army Cadet Force, under the new Proficiency Certificate syllabus, have been presented to cadets of the Torrington School platoon by the CO, Major G Casey.

Torrington to double within 15 years?

The funeral service has taken place at the North Devon Crematorium of Mrs Maud Lugg who died at the Torrington Cottage Hospital. Mrs Lugg was the widow of Mr Jack Lugg, of Well Street, Torrington. Mrs Winifred Hancock, who has died in Torrington Cottage Hospital, was for many years organist at Haytown Methodist Church and took a great interest in the activities of Shebbear Methodist Circuit. She was the wife of Mr Harold Hancock and for many years they lived at Stowford Farm, Bulkworthy. On retirement five years ago they went to live in Torrington. There was a large attendance at the funeral at Torrington Methodist Church. Bearers were nephews Messrs A Jennings, J Bealey, B Down and J Martin. Mr Reginald Trigger, who died in Torrington Cottage Hospital, was a British Railwayman for 45 years. He retired as station master and harbour master at Padstow in 1963. Mr and Mrs Trigger celebrated their golden wedding last year at their home in Calf Street, Torrington. Cremation took place at Barnstaple. The service was attended by the widow and many relatives and friends. One of Torrington FC Supporters’ Club’s longest serving members, Mrs Beatrice Mitchell, of Mill Street, Torrington, has died in the Torrington Cottage Hospital. She was the widow of Mr (Brum) Mitchell. Mrs Mitchell’s work for the local soccer club spanned a period of 40 years.

Torrington Blue Coat Primary School’s ‘Hiawatha’ was the first school production to be staged at The Plough and it certainly proved worthy. In working for the production some children chose to act, or to sing, to play in the orchestra, or to make costumes, scenery or props. A total of £42 was taken at the door.

More than recovering from a drop in entries last year, this year’s show of Weare Giffard Horticultural Society, held at the Village Hall, had over 400. In fact, there was every reason to be pleased with the numbers. Mrs Betty Rowe who is joint secretary with her husband Bill, said they were 50 up on last year. Flowers very much caught the eye and provided the best in show and runner-up. Both were won by Bideford exhibitors, Mr Douglas Bond of Lime Grove, and Mr David Elliott, of Glendale Road.

Delighted children of Westleigh CP School had a surprise break from lessons when they received a very special young visitor – Bamber, a red deer fawn. Bamber – named after TV personality Bamber Gascoigne – is the latest addition to the Steer farm at Trayhill, Instow, which already includes racehorses, beef cows, dogs, guinea fowl and peacocks. The young deer was found by prisoners at Witheridge open prison. The visit to the school, where Mr Steer’s grandson Simon started this spring, came at the suggestion of a friend of the family who is a school helper.

The Westward Ho! Sue Ryder group took £28.75 at their jumble sale.

A brand new ‘Harris homes’ development at Buckleigh Place, Northam – formerly United Service College, Westward Ho!

The Great Nassau Bath, at Westward Ho! known to succeeding generations as the Lido and then the Patio Pool, was opened 100 years ago. Its popularity today is as great as it ever was. The pool was opened a year after the United Services College …

It is hoped that the new toilets and shelter at the top of the promenade putting green area at Westward Ho! will be fully operational this month. This was reported by District Councillor Joe Need to Northam Town Council after the Mayor, Mrs Phyllis Galliford, had expressed anxiety that with the holiday season the new facilities should be in use as soon as possible. There was criticism of further delay in bringing back into use toilets at Churchfield, Appledore.

Queen of Westward Ho! Carnival will be Miss Linda O’Leary, of Bay View Road, Westward Ho!

‘Gone West’, one of the scenes from Westward Ho! Follies’ 26^th production, ‘Mixed Grill’ produced by Ada Powell and being presented until September 16^th.

Mark Sale, Michael Johns, David Littlejohns, Ron Jewell, Michael Porter, Des Pugh, Graham Humphrey, Douglas Kirk

Woolsery Vicar, Rev Leslie Buttle, eats porridge.

Major Lomas introduces a new attraction at Woolsery and District Agricultural Show.

Before a final decision is taken on whether the plant at East Yelland Power Station should be adapted to permit incineration of refuse for North Devon it was essential that the Northern area site team should complete its survey to find new tipping sites. It was estimated that the work would take about 12 months when an up-to-date assessment of the proposal should be made.

July 2000

Project creates new estuary saltmarshes.

Bay fronted semi-detached property in the centre of Abbotsham is for sale.

Opportunities of apprenticeships and careers in shipbuilding are going begging on Torridgeside – an area with one of the longest traditions of shipbuilding in the UK. While the Bideford area remains an employment blackspot major employer Appledore Shipbuilders is finding it difficult to recruit the young people it needs. Currently there are 45 young people under training within the yard – including its first girl apprentice. Mr Downie hopes that apprentice fitter Joanna Osborne from Holsworthy will soon not be alone.

Tutor Alan Heale and current apprentices Luke Amey and Jimmy Jenkins of Torrington, Joanne Osborne, Martin McDonald and Martin Keen of Bideford, and Rick Weaver of Northam

Appledore’s carnival royalty were chosen at a discotheque in the Royal British Legion Hall. Queen Laura Millard will lead the carnival attended by Jodie Wrey and Katie Ford, Ruby Walsh and Natalie Michael.

Grade II listed period property in Appledore for sale.

Retirement of Appledore Shipbuilders’ long-serving training officer David Waite is not goodbye, but more a change of role, for he will continue to provide his help and advice. To mark 32 years of service Mr Waite was presented with a decanter and glasses by the yard’s production director David Powe.

Pictured with Mr Waite and Mr Powe is Tom Downie

Proposals for a new civic amenity and recycling centre in Clovelly Road, Bideford, will be discussed by the Torridge and Devon County Council partnership committee. The county council’s executive committee is recommending that a site on the Clovelly Road Industrial Estate be developed as a successor to the current Northam Burrows centre, where planning permission runs out at the end of this year.

A hat fit for the Queen Mother is the subject of a novel competition being held by residents of Moreton Avenue in Bideford. Adults and children are being invited to make hats fit for the special lady and to exhibit them at the annual Moreton Avenue Neighbourhood Watch summer barbecue. A raffle, quiz and various games are also planned. Neighbourhood Watch coordinator Angela Lovering is hoping for a large turnout.

Bideford Rotary Club has named local athlete Neil Paddon as its Citizen of the Year. The presentation marks Neil’s work as captain of Bideford Amateur Athletic Club for six years and his coaching of youngsters. A local postman, Neil took up athletics himself in 1985 and is also a keen rower. When his own coach left the area Neil took on the group and trained to become a British Athletics Federation coach.

Bideford’s fight for regeneration has received some new helping and business expertise from an unexpected direction – the Parish Church. The arrival of the Reverend Penny Dobbin as curate of St Mary’s has not only added to the strength of the local clergy but brought to Bideford a woman with experience at the sharp end of internation business.

John Biggs has been elected a member of the British Antique Dealers’ Association ruling Council. He is the third generation of his family to be in the trade, and he and his wife took over the running of the family business, J Collins & Son in 1966. The Bideford-based business specialises in 18^th and early 19^th century English furniture and Victorian oil paintings and water colours. Mr Biggs began as an apprentice in the workshop.

Bideford in hunt for the oldest and youngest residents.

Businessman Aubrey Loze took time off from running the Pot Black factory at Bideford to make a journey into the past and the days of World War Two. He went to present a painting to the RAF of a Halifax bomber – the one in which his uncle died along with other crew members when it crashed in Belgium. It was not until last year that Mr Loze and his family were reunited with the memory of Sgt Thomas Vadre Lewis of Chambercombe Manor, Ilfracombe. He had been a last minute replacement for the regular rear gunner when it took off on a bombing mission in October 1943. Then disaster struck. Next of kin were informed that their loved ones has been buried at a military cemetery at Antwerp but somehow the news never reached the kin of Sgt Lewis who remained ‘missing, presumed dead.’ Until last year when it was decided to make the crash site a conservation area and erect a memorial stone. The search was on for the family of Sgt Vadre Lewis, and when Mr Loze read of it he realized it was his uncle.

Mr Loze and Commanding Officer Wing Commander Davie Paton

Pop superstar Sir Bob Geldof and million-selling band Republica are at Clovelly to head the bill in the second of two spectacular all-day music concerts.

Willow the flyaway falcon has found his way safely back home. One of the stars of the North Devon Bird of Prey Centre at The Milky Way Adventure Park, Clovelly, the Lanner falcon went missing five weeks ago during a demonstration by Jonathan Marshall. More than 300 calls were made to report sightings. Willow was first seen near Woolacombe, then there were sightings around Braunton, reports from the Bideford side of Barnstaple and a sighting of Willow on top of a lamp post by Bideford’s new bridge. The next day he was back home, perched on one of the barns at The Milky Way.

The Reverend Graeme Sims, best known as the world record holding dog handler at the Milky Way Adventure Park, near Clovelly, is leaving to take responsibility for his own churches. For the past two years he has been working as a curate with the Hartland Coast team but will now become resident vicar of tow parishes.

Courtney Heal, of High Bickington, has a winning idea.

Instow property for sale.

Instow property sold at auction.

Semi-detached cottage at Langtree for sale.

It was picnic time at Northam Lodge when visitors from Bristol and West PLC turned up with a hamper and a cheque. As a promotion for its Easy Life accounts the company held a special picnic theme day within its Bideford branch. As part of the day guests were invited to make donations to Northam Lodge. In return they were entered into a draw with a picnic hamper as the prize. Following a successful day, Northam Lodge was presented with a cheque for £164 and Jane Beer of Bideford was presented with a hamper.

Denise Payne, Joanna and Jane Beer, Ann Tomlin, Barbara Davidson, Lucy Cox, Christine Richards, Lyn Vanstone

Converted coach house in Northam for sale.

Northam property – fine detached house with holiday letting – for sale.

Torrington will be filled with song and dance and the fun of fiesta-time when the town holds its first Music and Arts Festival. A packed programme of nearly 50 events – many of them on-going throughout the celebration – will span the four days. The town’s streets will be a major venue. Local primary schools will entertain. There will be busking and Morris dancing. Theatre groups will give performances.

Rock on Torrington Commons.

North Devon Hospice is set to open its fifth fund raising shop in the region. The official opening will take place of the new shop in Cornmarket Street, Torrington.

Pupils, staff, governors and parents of two North Devon schools – Great Torrington Juniors and Pilton Infants – celebrated a unique double. The schools have driven up education standards to such an extent that inspectors from OFSTED say ‘special measures’ are no longer required. Pilton Infants held a ‘jumping for joy’ day. Cllr Palmer went on to Torrington to watch the junior school’s 308 children release giant balloons.

Part-time secretary required in Taffs in Torrington.

Public consultation – Torrington Swimming Pool.

RSPCA volunteer Brian Breetz of Westward Ho! has a gnawing problem – an invasion of rats!

Buckleigh Linen Service, Westward Ho! requires an office junior.

Winkleigh villagers are flexing their muscles, sharpening their wits and getting out their knitting pins ready to take part in their annual festival. Winkleigh Fair gets under way with a packed and varied programme which has something to offer everyone. MEP Emma Nicholson has lent the grounds of her property The Croft for a church fete which will be a highlight. So, too, will be the official opening of the festival when the well in The Square is blessed and all the children of the parish are given millennium mugs. The day will include a parade followed by a service at All Saints’ Church to which children are invited to take eggs and flowers for local senior citizens. Fair week will raise many hundreds of pounds …