Victory in Europe Day

is the day that the Allies of World War II accepted Germany’s unconditional surrender of its armed forces on Tuesday 8 May 1945 and marked the end of World War II in Europe. The last known shots were fired on 11 May 1945. Millions of people rejoiced and marked victory with street parties, singing and dancing. The announcement that the war had ended in Europe was broadcast to the British people over the radio late on 7 May. The BBC interrupted its scheduled programming with a news flash announcing that Victory in Europe Day would be a national holiday, to take place on 8 May.  

The war against Japan had not yet been won.

Tuesday, May 1, 1945

Within ten minutes of crash landing their glider into a German farmyard during the great Airborne invasion east of the Rhine, men of the Devons had captured twice as many prisoners as there were British troops who poured out of the glider. The Devons, in a lightning advance to within less than 100 miles of Berlin, captured village after village and a number of small defended towns. Among those taking part in the capture of Lengerich and the advance towards Hanover, was Corpl Thomas E Shortridge, third son of Mr J Shortridge and the late Mrs Shortridge, of Clifton Street, Bideford.

Miss Naffy

News that Flying-Officer William Ronald (Roy) Short, RAFVR, has been killed in a flying accident in this country is received with deep regret by his many friends in Bideford and district. Aged 29, he was the younger son of the late Mr and Mrs William Short, of Mill Street. Before volunteering for the RAF in December 1940, he was associated with the family business of outfitters and had previously served an apprenticeship in London. An Old Boy of Bideford Grammar School, which he attended  from 1926-31, he played hockey for

Mr Norman H Chope, JP, on leave after serving for three years with the RAF in the Middle East, was welcomed back by Bideford Borough Session. On Thursday he distributed the prizes won in the National ‘Make-Do and Mend’ competition at W H Chope and Sons, Bideford, whose exhibition window last year was adjudged one of the twelve best in England.

Over 100 men of Bradworthy Platoon, 8^th Battalion Devon Home Guard, were entertained to dinner in the Assembly Rooms. The absence of Lieut-Col E J W Spread was much regretted …

Official news was received that Mr Herbert George Littlejohns, previously reported missing, had been killed in action. Aged 29, he was Hartland telegraph messenger for some years and then went to Launceston as postman, afterwards being at Bideford before joining the Devonshire Regiment. Three years ago he married Miss Gladys Muriel Short. There are now three widows in the house 115 West Street, Hartland – Mesdames Charlotte Short and her daughter, Bailey and Littlejohns.

News of the death in action of Major Charles Frederick Gordon (Dick) Bond, Special Air Service Regt, late Wiltshire Regt. has occasioned deep regret among his wide circle of friends in North Devon. Aged 34, he was the son of the late Capt C G Bond, who was killed in action in 1916, and of Mrs Snelgrove, the Plottage, Forest Row, Sussex. In 1935 he married Miss Evelyn Hinchliff of Instow. His widow and their three small children live at Whorridge Farm, Cullompton. Major Bond joined the Wiltshire Regt in 1931 and after serving at Plymouth, Singapore and in India, he left the Army for family reasons in 1937. A first class golfer, he was a member of the Committee of the Royal North Devon Golf Club, at which he played regularly.

Hard on the news of the reunion thousands of miles from home of three Torrington soldiers, all of whom come from Well Street, comes news of the reunion of two Torrington sailors in Ceylon.

K Mitchell, R Lugg, A Mules, A B Hearn, A B Folland

Engagement – Kenneth John Steer, younger son of Mr and Mrs E Steer, Guelph, Ontario, formerly of Torrington, and Kathleen Helena Hill, younger daughter of Mr L Hill, Sask, and Mrs Hill, Monkleigh.

Welcome Home Fund, Alwington.

Appledore’s Seamen’s Mission special appeal has received a number of generous gifts futher to those previously announced. Mr Bartlett and Mrs Valentine have subscribed jointly £100 in memory of the late Dr A W Valentine, and Mrs W A Anderson has subscribed £50 and Mrs Gibson left a legacy to the fund of £50. The fund now stands at £840.

A long and very interesting seafaring career has been severed by the death at the age of 81 of Capt Thomas Gregory, of Myrtle Street, Appledore, and late of Hubba House, Appledore, where he resided with his niece, Mrs Sidney Harris. Capt Gregory has three sons: Capt John Edwards Gregory, who has been mentioned in despatches for courage in carrying out dangerous salvage work; Mr Thomas Gregory, who is associated with Liverpool Docks; and the late Mr Samuel Arthur Gregory, who was serving with the Devons in the last war when he was killed in the Battle of the Somme.

The Hon. Mrs Blyth, daughter of the late Mrs Georgina Gibson, of Northam, and niece of the late Lord Glanely, a native of Appledore, has presented Bideford and District Hospital with £1,000 in memory of her late mother.

At Bradworthy, there is a sale of ‘Small Country House and Accommodation Land, with Possession at Michaelmas next, or by earlier arrangement.’ Trebarwick.

The Young Farmers’ Club annual general meeting was held in the Schoolroom, Buckland Brewer. There was a good attendance. Mr T Cock, treasurer, presented a very satisfactory statement of accounts. New officers elected – Chairman, Mr A Bealey; vice-chairman, Mr W Heywood; hon. secretary, Miss J Anstey; club leader, Mr J George. Arrangements for the summer programme were discussed. At the conclusion Miss E Bealey presented the live stock judging certificates to the winners.

Moorlands and PT. Nattymore smallholding at Buckland Brewer for sale.

Vines and Rendells, Eddistone for sale at the Church Hall, Hartland.

Mrs D M Jarvis died at the residence of her only daughter, Mrs Gladys Colwill, Hartland Lighthouse. She first came to Hartland with her late husband, Mr James H Jarvis, when he was principal keeper at the Point 1913-15, returning with the Colwills in 1940. Mr Jarvis died in Cornwall in 1939. He was succeeded at ‘Harty’ as semen term it, by his brother Walter.  

The wedding has taken place at Huntshaw Parish Church of Mr Frederick T Adams, youngest son of Mr and Mrs Adams, of Stibb Cross, Langtree, and Miss Ethel A Squire and the late Mr T Squire, of Darracott Farm, Torrington. The bridesmaids were Misses Joyce and Marjorie Blake, and Miss Syliva Adams. The reception was held at Darracott Farm and the honeymoon was spent at Exeter and Westward Ho!

A whist drive was held in the Old School, Langtree, in aid of Church Room. The prizes, which included poultry, were won as follows: Mrs H Ford, Miss D Soby, Miss D Littlejohns, Mr Sobey, Mr A Ayre and Mr F Dymond.

The wedding took place at St Swithin’s Church, Littleham, of Mr Albert William Mills, eldest son of Mr and Mrs Mills, of Beara Farm, Buckland Brewer, and Miss Nina Joyce Beer, only child of Mr and Mrs Beer, of Heale Farm, Littleham. The Rev A J Clarke officiated and Miss Bowdidge presided at the organ. The bride was attired in a dress of white satin with a veil loaned by the bride’s aunt, Mrs J Phillips. She wore a diamond and amethyst brooch loaned by a friend, and carried a bouquet of pink roses.

Household furniture, furnishings and effects from Downalong, Limers Lane, Northam, for sale.

At St Giles-in-the-Wood Parish Church, Petty Officer Edward G Tucker, RN, was married to Miss Elsie M Palmer, ATS, third daughter of Mr and Mrs W Palmer, of Jewells Water, High Bullen, Great Torrington. The Rev G A M Griffiths officiated. Four bridesmaids attended the bride, Misses Sheila Snell and Rosemary Palmer, and Misses Joan Palmer and Dorothy Tucker. The reception was held at the bride’s home. A large number of useful and money gifts were received. The honeymoon was spent at Exeter.

Torrington NFS has a busy time.

Underborough, Westward Ho! for sale.

The wedding has taken place at Allhallows Parish Church, Woolsery, of Mr Owen Chidley and Miss Alice Moore, elder daughter of Mr A C C Moore and the late Mrs Moore, of The Inn, Woolsery. The Vicar, Rev E L Lewis officiated. Mrs H S Thomas was the organist. The bride wore a long bridal gown of ice-blue satin, with a corsage spray of orange blossom. Her white tulle veil, needle run with ice-blue, was surmounted by a white feather halo headdress. She wore silver shoes and carried a bouquet of deep pink tulips, jonquils and fern.

Brooke Bond Dividend Tea

Tuesday, 8 May, 1945

Following a week of such tremendous and good news, and in quick succession, so that it has seemed our hearts have been beating faster with expectation for longer than we have ever experienced before, the final and complete capitulation of Germany and her armed forces is hourly expected. Mr Churchill spent the weekend at 10 Downing Street, ready for the great news, and handling the stream of reports telling of the imminence of the final crash of Germany and the end of the European war.

VE Day food supplies

These four Bidefordians had their photograph taken together as a souvenir of the fact that they are all serving on the RAF station in East Anglia. From left to right are: Messrs R (Twiggy) Branch, whose home is at Bideford; ‘Grundy’ Warmington whose brother, Leslie, is associated with the firm of Seward and Warmington, garage proprietors and automobile salesmen and engineers, Bridgeland Street, Bideford; H R Bartholomew, late of High Sreet, Bideford; M H Walker, of Abbotsham road, Bideford.

A fully-representative gathering of ‘C’ Company 5^th Bn (Bideford) Home Guard assembled at the Torridge Inn for the purpose of presenting their Company Commander, Major A C J Wright, with an inscribed silver cigarette case. Making the presentation, Captain L R Mugford referred in feeling terms to the sterling qualities which had made Major Wright such an efficient and popular CO and earned for him the esteem of all ranks.

The Union Jack draped the coffin at the funeral at East-the-Water Cemetery Bideford, of Flying Officer William Ronald (Roy) Short, RAFVR, aged 39. F/O Short, who volunteered in December 1940, was killed in a flying accident in this country. He was the younger son of the late Mr and Mrs William Short of Mill Street.

The Strand Cinema Forces Night proved a welcome haven in the sudden cold spell with its hail and snow. A packed and exceedingly enthusiastic audience approved yet another popular programme. Variety lasting one hour opened the evening,

Births – Folland-to Eleanor, wife of L J Folland, of Annery Barton, Monkleigh; Hookway – at Kursal, Cleave Houses, Northam, to Mr and Mrs Horace Hookway; Hutchings – at Barnstaple Street, Bideford, to Annie (nee Bushen), wife of Henry Hutchins, a son, Ronald James; Locker – to Sign. G Locker, RN, and Mrs Locker (Phyllis Bedlar), a baby son, Kenneth John.

Marriages – Alfred George Hill and Mary Elizabeth (Molly) Backway; Lance-Corporal A V Reece and Miss Beryl Edith Arlett, of Eastbourne Terrace, Westward Ho!

Engagements – Cfn Jack Lane, REME (CMF) to Freda Eileen; David Francis Noel, Lieut, RA, and Heath Rosaleen, Rose Cottage, Westward Ho!

News has been received that Lieut C C Prust, only son of Mr and Mrs B Prust, of Fairview House, Abbotsham, who is serving with a well-known Scottish infantry battalion in Italy, has been wounded in action.

Alwington Women’s Institute – the monthly meeting was held with good attendance. Mrs Poole was in the chair, the late president, Mrs Mapleton, having resigned on leaving the district. After the usual business an interesting talk was given by Mrs Leggett on smocking and she showed some delightful specimens in embroidery. The competition was won by Miss A Lott.

In a letter to her parents, Mr and Mrs P Hutchings, of Hill Cliff Terrace, Appledore, Mrs P Kidwell, of Glena Avenue, Knowle, Bristol 4, who many years ago used to teach at the Church Schools at Bampton and Muddiford, near Barnstaple, writes to say that her daughter, Miss Barbara Kidwell, who is aged 17, presented Queen Mary with a bouquet when the Queen Mother visited Merrywood Secondary School, Bristol, recently.

The funeral took place at St Mary’s Church, Appledore, of Mr John Henry Lamey, of New Quay, Appledore, the Rev H C A S Muller officiating. The late Mr Lamey was the eldest son of the late Mr John Lamey, sailmaker and landlord of the Ship Inn, and Mrs Amelia Lamey. At the age of 11, he was apprenticed to the late Mr John Tamalyn to learn carpentry and housebuilding.

The wedding took place at St Mary’s Church, Bideford, of L/SM Ian McKay Massie, RN, and Morwenna, only daughter of Mrs and the late Mr George Thisby, of New Street, Bideford. The only bridesmaid was Miss Myrtle Elston. About 70 friends were entertained at a reception held at the Pallidum Sports and Social Club. Scotland was chosen for the honeymoon.

The wedding took place at the Church of the Sacred Heart, Bideford of Mr John Patrick O’Toole (Cox), US Navy, and Miss Doris Wrey, third daughter of Mr and Mrs Wrey of Sentry Corner, Bideford. The bridesmaids were Misses Betty, Marlene and Wanda Wrey. The reception was held at the bride’s home, many presents and cheques being received.

In the presence of her late colleagues at the Bideford Post Office, the Head Postmaster, Mr W H Arlett, performed the pleasurable duty of presenting to Miss Pollie Chugg the Imperial Service Medal awarded her by HM the King. The medal, which is of silver, is inscribed “For faithful service”. The recipient must not only have given a lifetime of service to the Crown but that service must have been absolutely unblemished.

The funeral took place at the Higher Cemetery, Bideford, of Miss Maud Alice Symons, daughter of Mr and Mrs C W Symons, of Highlea, Abbotsham Road. Miss Symons’ death occurred at Wimbledon where she lived.

When an M.O.I film show was given at Bradworthy recently, included in the programme was a film entitled ‘Cornish Valley’ which aroused especial interest as scenes were shown of Bradworthy auction. Several well-known Bradworthians could be seen taking part in the buing and selling.

There was a large attendance of sympathisers at the funeral at Bradworthy Methodist Church of Miss Edith Nancekivell, younger daughter of Mr and Mrs W Nancekivell, of Horton Farm. The coffin was conveyed by hearse from Silworthy Farm, where deceased lived with her sister, Mrs W L Wickett.

For the first time in the memory of many Hartland septugenians there was no May-day decorated singing procession.

Swiss Cottage, Instow, for sale.

There was considerable interest in Bideford and district, where the bride has many friends, being an Old Girl of West Bank School, in the wedding of St Mary’s Church, Bluntisham-cum-Earith, between Lieutenant Philip Robert Gilmer Smith, DSC, RN, and Marjorie (Molly) Orynthia Nicholson Keene, Third Officer WRNS, daughter of Major H N J Keene, Mc, RA (retd0 and mrs Keene, of Instow. The bride was given away by her father, who is a stepson of the late Dr E J Toye, an ex-Mayor of Bideford. 

A whist drive and dance in aid of the Red Cross and Prisoner of War funds was organised by Mrs G E Allyn Jones at Littleham Parish Hall. The Blue Orpheans Band provided the music and the MCs were Mr Hedden and Mr T Kelland. The catering arrangements were by Mrs Lyle and Mrs Folley. Great credit is due to all helpers.

Fairlea, Northam, formerly used as a convalescence annex for the North Devon Joint Isolation Hospital, is being converted for use as a residential nursery for children up to the age of two, administered through the Public Assistance Committee.

It is with deep regret that the people of Parkham heard of the death at her residence, Casa Mia, Northam, of Miss Blanche Feodore Morgan. For some years the family resided at Hoops, Horn Cross, where they were held in high esteem. The funeral took place at Parkham Parish Church, the Rector, Rev S A Hensley, officiating.

The formal reading of the proclamation was the only glimpse, owing to the war conditions and wet weather, of the pageantry associated in peace-time with Torrington May Fair which is held on the first Thursday in May. But the tradition has thus been maintained to be revived, one hopes, with something of its former glory in 1946. The May of Torrington, Ald L S Hutchings, accompanied by members of the Council, officials and borough beadles, assembled in the square at noon to read the proclamation.

The result of a recent house-to-house collection in Torrington for the National Children’s Home and Orphanage was £17 8s 5d, which has been forwarded by the local secretary, Miss E M Woodley.

Peals of bells greeted the bride and bridegroom on leaving St Michael’s Church, Torrington, when the wedding took place of Mr Cecil Henry Gooding, RN, only son of Mr and Mrs H Gooding, High Bickington, and Miss Heather Patricia Iris Kelly, only daughter of Mr and Mrs W J Kelly, of 58 Well Street, Torrington. The bridesmaids were Miss Catherine Kelly and Misses Maureen Kelly and Susan Parker. Over fifty guests were entertained at the reception held at the Church Hall, the caterers were the Green Lantern Café.

The large attendance and the many floral tributes sent were evidence of the great affection in which the late Mrs Linda Eileen Grigg, wife of Mr James Grigg, of Netherdown Farm, Weare Giffard, was held, and the great sympathy felt for her husband and nine children. Mrs Grigg was a daughter of Mr and Mrs Philip Colwill who for many years farmed Port Farm, Bideford, and also had a butcher’s business at East-the-Water. She was well known to a large circle of friends in Bideford, having a large clientele at the Pannier Market, where she held a sitting for many years. The funeral took place at Weare Giffard Churchyard, the Rev G C F Edwards officiating.  

Found – a leak in the water main, the detection of which has occupied the attention of Northam Council in the past few weeks, was found to be due to a split in the main at Nelson Road, Westward Ho! Comprehensive tests had been made and the area concerned had been narrowed down to part of Westward Ho! when the matter was clinched by the appearance of a hole in the road at the spot. It is hoped that the supply will be back to normal throughout the district this week.

A dance was held in Woolsery Institute, proceeds being on behalf of the local ‘Welcome Home Fund’. Woolsery Band were in attendance, and refreshments were served by the ladies’ committee, Mesdames B Acland, J Babb, F Dark, H W S Mitchell and Miss W Pengilly.

OXO cubes

Tuesday, 15 May, 1945

On Saturday morning, May 5^th, with news overnight of the German capitulation including the garrison of occupied Holland, there was joy above and below decks of a Dutch ship alongside Bideford Quay. Gaily beflagged, she was a conspicuous centre of rejoicing and the Captain received many passing congratulations.

Thankfulness and sacrifices

Greetings from HMS Bideford

Mrs Elsie Collins, of Meeting Street, Appledore, is deeply grateful for the kind enquiries, following what was happily an erroneous communication from the War Office that her husband, Pte Frederick Collins, had been killed in action. Mrs Collins received a letter written by her husband after he was reported killed and later an official message from the War Office confirming the glad news that he was alive and well.

The Secretary of the Admiralty announced late on Thursday night that lighting restrictions in the coastal areas are no longer necessary for defence purposes, and they are now removed for the whole country. Lieut-Col White, of REME, in a talk to Bideford Rotary Club on Rehabilitation, described steps being taken from within the Services and stressed the need for utmost cooperation from without. There would be preliminary waiting period before demobilisation began which would require all their help, and many cases of hardship would have to be investigated. An interesting point was that men in any early group who wished to remain in the Army could not exchange with men in a later group who wanted to get out quickly.

Mrs Beckerley, of Sentry Corner, Bideford, has received a letter from Mrs Mullins, Mataticle, East Griqualand, South Africa, saying she had met her son, Bob (RN) in South Africa, he and a few pals having been her guests for 15 days. “Being a mother myself and knowing how anxious I was for news of my son while in the fighting line, I felt you might like to hear from someone who had seen your son recently. He looked well and fit and seemed to enjoy his stay.”

Friends in Bideford will regret to hear that Lieut V J Brayley, The Seaforths, was wounded in the face on April 18^th while serving in Western Europe. He is now in hospital in Worcester.

Flying Officer John Anthony McLaren, DFC, whose home is at Bideford, has received a bar to his DFC.

At Clovelly, the following have been home on leave: Cpl H Hambly (husband of District Nurse); Sergt R J Kelly; PO Lewis Pengilly, and his sister, L/Cpl Mary Kilbourne with her husband Pte F Kilbourne; L/Cpl J Foley, and Flt-Sergt L Bowson.

Capt J H S Burrow, youngest son of Mr and Mrs J H Burrow, of Rose Hill, Merton, has been awarded the Croix de Guerre ‘for gallantry in the Normandy fighting”. Beginning his Army career as a private, he soon rose to his present rank in the Royal Artillery. He was among the first 40,000 troops to land on D-Day, since when he has been in the thick of activity in France, Belgium, Holland and Germany.

Recently awarded the British Empire Medal is Gunner Albert James Mounce, only son of Mr and Mrs Mounce, of Cross Street, Northam.

Sergt John Thomas, RE, who before joining the Services was an assistant to the Surveyor to Northam Urban District Council, has recently arrived home by air from a prisoner-of-war camp in Germany. Outside Northam UDC offices to greet him was a sign proclaiming “Welcome Home, John.” Sgt Thomas and his mother, Mrs Grace Thomas, of Westview, Appledore, are deeply grateful for the kind enquiries of many friends during the anxious wait for news.

Tuesday, May 9^th was the culminating point of the week we shall remember all our lives – and history long after we gone. Everywhere in this war, from those in the forefront down to the loneliest Tommy and the most secluded war worker, one has felt that human lives have been weighed in the balance, not as pawns in a strategy, but as units of a controlling hand that has had spiritual and mechanical measure of the opponents. We have had national crisis leaders, heroes and supporting crowds in the past but we have never had it more convincingly expressed than during the crisis not confounded.

Thanks to Mrs Low and a small committee of mothers and neighbours, nearly 60 children from Lower Honestone Street, Silver Street, and Highfield Place (Bideford) sat down to a magnificent tea. A concert followed and community singing by the children, and later in the evening the adults joined in festivities with dancing and singing. A buffet supper followed and the much enjoyed evening ended with Auld Lang Syne.

Bideford Market day with a difference!

The people of Clovelly celebrated this memorable day in a quiet manner. Flags were flown from most of the houses, and the children, getting possession of some fireworks, created plenty of loud ‘bangs’. A thanksgiving service was held at All Saints Church, conducted by Rev A S Chandler, assisted by Preb J N Wallis, the church being packed. On the following day, sports were held in the Clovelly Court grounds. The officials were the school staff … 

Hartland’s bells rang for two hours on the afternoon of VE-Day. At 7pm the Home Guards, Cadets, Air Raid Precautions, Home Guard Women, Women’s Voluntary Service, Women’s Institute, First Aid, and public assembled at the school and led by the band (under Mr Snow) marched through the abundantly beflagged streets to the Square, which had been marked out for respective positions, and kept clear of cars by Special Constables on point duty at cross roads. The Vicar, Preb Gregory, spoke on the greatness of the day and the need of thanksgiving, sobered by the thoughts that victory meant sacrifice of multitudes and that a cruel foe had yet to bit the dust. Rev A Evens Clarke took the prayers and read the lesson. “God save the King” engaged in by the throng, concluded the service. Fireworks followed for a long time. A dance in the Hall raised £34 for the Parish Council Welcome Home Fund.

Merry peals were rung on the bells at Langtree church throughout the day on Tuesday to celebrate the surrender of Germany. Mr Charles Walters had the misfortune to break his leg owing to the bell rope breaking. Everyone wishes him a speedy recovery. Thanksgiving services were held in the evening at both the church and chapel. In the evening a grand social was held in the Old Schoolroom where there was a large gathering and all thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Mrs Burrows, Mrs Madge, Mrs Curtis and Miss Joan Moore supplied the music. Funds were in aid of Welcome Home to the Forces.

Members of Northam Urban District Council and staff were among the large and representative congregation attending on Sunday morning at a thanksgiving service at St Margaret’s Church, Northam. The Vicar, Rev E Basil Bridger, conducted the service, and gave the address.

Torrington sings and dances

Left - The Mayor, Ald L S Hutchings, accompanied by the Corporation, makes a Victory proclamation in Torrington Square. Right – Mr B G Lampard-Vachell conducts Torrington’s community singing

Westward Ho! rings hand-bells, burns an effigy of Hitler, raises money for the Welcome Home Fund, has fancy dress and community singing, and holds a victory dance.

Births – to Mr and Mrs Chapman, a daughter, Jennifer, a sister for Graham; at Mount Pleasant, Parkham, to Ezma Parsley (nee Copp) and Kenneth Parsley, a son, Victor Andrew; at The Quay, Clovelly, to Clara, wife of Lieut Stephen Headon, a sister for Clive; at The Quay, Bideford, to Mr and Mrs L J Shutt, a daughter, Cynthia; to Mr and Mrs L Smale (nee Dora West), a son; to Dora (nee Sanders), wife of J R Turner, MRCVS, a daughter.

Gymkhana and Fete at The Downes, Alverdiscott.

Odun House, Appledore, for sale.

Mr F Sanders seeks to extend and convert Trevanion, Bideford.

A fine of 10s was imposed by Bideford Borough magistrates on Joan Ann Moore, of Abbotsham Road, Bideford, for riding a pedal cycle at Rectory Cross roads, on the night of April 18^th without having a front light. PC Scott gave evidence. Defendant wrote pleading ‘guilty’ saying it was a very bright, moonlit night and she had only ridden very slowly for a few yards, and had only a short distance to go.

At Bradworthy, Farm Sunday was observed in the parish. Services at various points in the village were conducted by the Vicar, Rev A E Dobson, assisted by Mr S Balston. Places visited were the churchyard, the square, a garden, a meadow and a cornfield. The cross bearer was Mr R Collacott. Hymns were sung by the choir.

A hen belonging to Mr A Westaway, of Slade Farm, Clovelly, has hatched out a brood of chicken in a magpie’s nest fixed in a thorn bush, the chicks having to be collected as they dropped out.

Instow WI – the May meeting, presided over by Miss Berry-Torr, was well attended in spite of a very wet afternoon. Some twenty members are anxious to attend the Group Meeting at Hartland later this month, and it is hoped to overcome the difficult problem of transport. Rear-Admiral Franklin gave a most interesting talk on the work of the Royal Navy in which he stressed the importance of the protection given to our convoys, and also the part played by the Navy in the amphibious landings of the past year. This month’s competition was for a home-made handkerchief with hand-embroidered initials. There were six entries which are being judged by Mrs Barclay Black.

Before a special sitting of Bideford Borough justices, a labourer of Luppingcott pleaded ‘guilty’ to stealing a ladies handbag containing two purses, a string of pearls, wallet and cash, the property of Margaret Leahey, of Higher Webbs, Littleham. Mrs Leahey was at the Maltscoop Inn, Bideford, assisting with the serving of customers and found her handbag missing when the bar closed. The accused was seen on the Quay by PC Symons and had the bag in his possession. Announcing a sentence of one month’s imprisonment, the Mayor commented “It was a bad thing to do on the holiday.” 

Much regret has been felt at the death of a well-known and much respected Northam personality, Mr A Richards, who only six weeks ago retired after serving in various capacities with Northam Urban District Council for 49 years. The funeral will take place at Northam Methodist Church.

It was with deep regret that the people of Parkham heard of the death at her residence, Casa Mia, Northam, after a short illness, of Miss Blanche Feodore Morgan, daughter of Mrs R J Morgan. For some years the family resided at Hoops, Horns Cross, where they were held in high esteem. The funeral took place at Parkham Parish Church, the Rector, Rev S A Hensley, officiating.

Please return your bottles and stoppers.

Tuesday, May 22, 1945

Sympathy is extended to Mr and Mrs W L Youngs, of Honestone Street, Bideford, in the loss of their eldest son, Pte Albert Lewin Youngs, who was aged 27 and was killed while serving with the MEF during field firing exercises. 

Recently home, happily looking fit and well, from a prisoner-of-war camp in Germany is Dvr-Mechanic Barry Eastmond, RAOC, fourth son of Mr and Mrs Eastmond, of Sunnyside, East-the-Water, Bideford. Missing in the fighting in Crete, he was afterwards reported safe as a prisoner-of-war in Southern Germany. He has seen service in Libya, Greece and Crete. Prior to the war he drove for his father-in-law, Capt S Guard, on the Pride of the West bus service, and for the Southern National Omnibus Company. His wife was formerly Miss Florence Guard, They have a daughter, Evelyn, who is attending Stella Maris School. When he arrived home, flags decorated Hill Cliff Terrace, Appledore, where he lives

Petty-Officer Card, husband of Mrs Card, who has been manageress at Bromley’s Café in his four years’ absence as a prisoner-of-war first in Italy and later in Germany, is back again, looking fit. Home from Brunswick prisoner-of-war camp is Lieut D Skipwith, son of Col and Mrs Skipwith, of Bideford, looking fit and well. During the war Col Skipwith has commanded the Army Cadet Force in North Devon. Pte M Richards, son of Lieut-Col and Mrs W V Richards, Crossfell, Bideford, and who was with Messrs Bazeley, Barnes and Bazeley before joining up, is home again after his long sojourn in a German prisoner-of-war camp, bright in spirit and health.

Recently awarded the British Empire Medal ‘for zeal and wholehearted devotion to duty’ is Engine Room Artificer Charles Henry Featherstone, Royal Navy, of Brookline, Abbotsham Road, Bideford. He is the eldest son of the late Mr and Mrs Charles Featherstone, and a grandson of Mrs Hookway, the Kings Arms, Bideford Quay. His wife and their daughter, Mary, attended Buckingham Palace on VE Day to see him receive his award at the hands of the King.

Liberation of the Channel Islands brought sad news for Mrs G Beer, Honestone Street, Bideford, whose home is at Guernsey. Her first news from the Island was to inform her that her father, Mr S G Jones, had been taken ill and died last February.

The first arrival at Clovelly from a prisoner-of-war camp in Germany was Pte L Butcher, brother of Mrs S Squire and son of ‘Pop’, who arrived and was warmly welcomed.

Clovelly people were very glad to hear that Mr and Mrs D Cook of Higher Clovelly, had received notification …

The sympathy of many friends in Northam district is extended to Mr and Mrs C H Griffey, of Meadbank, Northam, in the death on active service …

Lance-Sergt Bertram Sussex, Royal Engineers, son of Mr and Mrs James Sussex of Taddiport, Torrington, has been mentioned in despatches for a second time.

Street teas …

A thanksgiving service in the parish church at Alverdiscott, on VE Day, was conducted by Rev F H Franklin, Rector. Many of the congregation subsequently joined Methodist friends at their chapel, where service was conducted by Rev F E Poad and Mr Colwill (Northam) gave an address. On the Sunday a united service in the Methodist Church was conducted by Rev F E Poad. Rev F H Franklin gave an address. The Home Guard paraded.

Appledore continued its VE celebrations when in several streets impromptu tea parties were held for the children. When the children had finished the housewives who organised the occasion sat down to a tea party for themselves. The Vicar of Appledore, Rev H C A S Muller, visited most of the parties.

Royston Road …

Shamwickshire celebrates.

Pitt Lane, Elm Grove and Myrtle Gardens held their VE tea, following by music and dancing, and a very happy and successful occasion it proved: so much so that tentative arrangements were made for the victory tea to mark final victory! There were gay decorations and a splendid repast. A collection for the cancer campaign fund brought in £1 16s 6d.

Bideford Home Guard Band, under Bandmaster Headon, continues its round of service, and especially during Victory Week celebrations.

Arranged at very short notice, an excellent social evening to celebrate VE-Day was held on Tuesday, May 8^th, at the Baptist Schoolroom, Bideford. At the request of the Forces themselves, Messrs A C Hooper, W L Cording and H Lee, assisted by Mr J Roy Ellis, opened up again their Forces social and the room was packed with a jolly crowd who thoroughly enjoyed the games, music and competitions arranged for them.

On Ascension Day there were three masses in St Peter’s Church, Bideford. There was a large number of communicants. On VE-Day the church was open for private prayer, and a large number of people were going in and out during the day. Rev G F Bird was the celebrant at all the services.

Torrington continued its VE celebrations, May 12^th, with more dancing in the streets, with fancy dress maypole dancing as a special attraction. The Mayor and Mayoress, Ald and Mrs L S Hutchings, entered wholeheartedly into the occasions and won the silver cup, first prize for the fancy dress dancers. There was an impressive parade and attendance to a united service of thanksgiving held in the Parish Church and which the Mayor and Corporation attended in state and members of the Forces and many local organisations were represented.

About 30 children of Kingsley Terrace, Westward Ho! were given a VE tea on the Terrace. It came as a pleasant surprise as none of the children had any idea they were to have a tea until they returned from school. The national anthem was sung and three cheers given for Mrs R Cole and Mrs R Hoskin, of 7 Kingsley Terrace, who gave the children such a happy time, which was appreciated very much.

Capt Pine-Coffin has nominated the Rev G W Colborne, Rector since 1938 of West Buckland, to be Rector of Alwington.

Mr W J Langford, who has been the Headmaster of Bideford Grammar School for the past eight years, has been appointed Headmaster of Battersea Grammar School and commences his new duties with the September term.

Mr James Giddy, of Rockmount Terrace, Pitt Lane, Bideford, whose death at the age of 82 after a short illness, occurred on May 12^th was a well-known boat owner and Torridge personality. His wife, Eda Elizabeth Giddy, had predeceased him. The funeral took place at the Higher Cemetery, the Rev F Hobbs officiated in the absence of Rev M Wadey through illness.

Transfer of business from Mr Muxworthy to Mr Jenn – Trafalgar House, Old Town, Bideford.

In response to many requests that the show should be revived, a meeting of the committee and subscribers of Bideford and District Horse Show decided that the show combined with a gymkhana should be held on August 4^th. Mr H W Fulford, Mayor of Bideford, felt that a horse show on its own would not be so successful. There had been very successful gymkhanas for various causes locally during the war.

Peals of bells greeted the bride and bridegroom on leaving St Mary’s Church, Bideford, after the wedding of Sgt Patrick Turner, RAF, only child of Mr and Mrs H Turner, of 13 Sentry Corner, and Miss Winn Burge, now residing at Sunnyside, Mines Road. The Rev T R Gibby officiated. The duties of the best man were carried out by Pte S Bidgeway, RAMC, uncle of the bridegroom. A reception was held at the bridegroom’s house, the wedding cake being made and presented by Mrs Smale, of Weke Cottage, Torrington. The honeymoon was postponed owing to the shortage of the bridegroom’s leave.

At Clovelly, Mrs Hesketh organised a whist drive and dance in aid of the British Sailors’ Society.

Clovelly Anchor Day collection.

At Hartland, Messrs Kivell and Sons sold in the Church Hall, Vines and Rendells Eddistone, 125-152 acres to Mr Arthur Hockridge, High Park, Bideford, for £2,250. Mr Brimacombe, occupier, bought it from the Croscombe trustees only a few months ago. He will, through ill health, retire to Sunnymead, lately vacated by Mr T J Williams.

Many friends in Hartland will regret to hear of the death, which occurred in Birmingham, of Mr George W Perry. He was 63, often visited Hartland, and was married in 1918 to Miss Annie Evans, of The Terrace, Hartland.

The Life Saving Shield of the Ministry of War Transport for the best wreck service during 1944 has been awarded to the Hartland Life Saving Company, in respect of the services rendered to the Norwegian vessel s.s. Sjofna which stranded at Welcombe Mouth on the night of November 23^rd 1944, and the official presentation will be made at the Church Hall, Hartland by the Chief Inspector, HM Coastguard.

The Patron, Mrs Saltren-Willett, has appointed the Rev G H B Southern to be the Vicar of Monkleigh.

The funeral took place at Northam Methodist Church of Mr Frank Edward Champion, youngest son of Mr W G Champion, of Lakenham Ryse. Mr Champion who was a chief marine engineer died at the age of 44. Bearers were Messrs T Colwill, F Snell, C Mounce, S Kelly, H Heaman and N Saunders. Funeral arrangements were carried out by Mr A Griffey, Cross Street, Northam.

The wedding took place on April 1^st of Marine Frederick John Paddon, RM, only son of Mrs Paddon and the late Mr Paddon, of Kimberly Terrace, Northam, and Staff Nurse Maureen Shea, SRN. The reception was held at Isleworth, where many guests were entertained, and the honeymoon was spent at Bedford.

The penny-a-week collection for Northam, including Orchard Hill, for the two months ending May 12^th was £100 1s 8d. Mrs D Parkhouse and Miss C M Davis, organisers.

A former Mayor of Torrington, Mr R E L Penhale, has died at Torrington at the age of 86. Well known among the agricultural community, having until his retirement some years ago carried on an extensive practice as a veterinary surgeon, Mr Penhale was for a long period a member of Torrington Town Council and Mayor in 1911.

The monthly meeting of the Weare Giffard Women’s Institute was held at the Hall.

Woolsery Methodists celebrated their Sunday School anniversary. Rev A Evens Clarke, of Hartland, preached. Mr C B Griffiths was organist throughout.

Stork margarine.

Tuesday, May 29, 1945

Mr Churchill has resigned his Premiership of the Coalition Government, and, at the request of the King, is forming a ‘Caretaker’ Government to meet the House of Commons today. Tuesday’s Parliament will be dissolved on June 15^th, and the General Election take place on July 5^th. Counting of votes will be on July 27^th.

Reported ‘missing’ when his ship was sunk off Crete four years ago, the death in action of Assistant Supply William Richard Westlake, only son of Mrs Westlake and the late Mr W H Westlake, of 9 Glendale Terrace, Bideford, is now officially presumed.

The many friends of Mr Stanley Maxwell, of Littledene, Torrington Road, Bideford, will hear with regret that he passed away at Rosehill Sanatorium, Penzance. He was a prisoner-of-war for three and a half years which undermined his constitution. He was repatriated in September 1944 but never recovered from the hardships he had undergone. May will remember him as a prominent pedigree poultry breeder.

One of five soldier sons and brother of Major (Temp. Lit-Col) D A Seagrim, the 7^th Batt. Green Howards, who was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross for his part in the Mareth Line assault, Maj. Hugh Paul Seagrim, DSE, MBE, Hyderabad Regt, is believed to have lost his life in Burma where he was first reported missing, then a prisoner of war and is now thought to have been killed by the Japanese while voluntarily acting as a hostage, although no official intimation has yet come through.

Bideford Senior School Old Scholars’ Association had a special welcome for six Old Boys – J Bowden, H Eastman, J E Evans, F C Mower, S Raymont and A Smale – at their Club night which was specially organised to do them honour and attended by the Mayor and Mayoress, Ald and Mrs H W Fulford.

Mrs J L Anstey, of Higher Clovelly (who by the way is over 93 years of age) was pleased to receive a letter from her son, ‘Bert’, who has been in Guernsey since the German occupation. In it he describes some of the conditions under which they have had to live – a full description of which would fill a good sized book.

Over sixty evacuees were entertained at a farewell party in the Women’s Institute at Hartland. Tea was served by Mesdames D Gifford, G H Hendon, L Mugford, A Pengilly, Walt, Pillman, E Pomeroy, E Prouse (Natcott), H Prouse, W Prouse (St Leonards), A Short, Idris Thorne, Misses E Heywood, Olive Jeffery, Eileen Prouse, Pat Prouse, Margaret Short, Ruby Westlake. Festivities continued with dancing and singing. Votes of thanks to all concerned concluded a very happy evening.

Recently mentioned in despatches ‘for gallant and distinguished services in North-West Europe’ is Dvr George Sydney Cole of 16 St Giles, Torrington. Aged 33, Dvr Cole is the son of …

Maj Robert John Puddicombe, of the Devonshire Regt, son of Mr John Puddicombe, vice-chairman of Torrington Rural Council, has been promoted to lieutenant-colonel.

A London mother has written expressing her admiration and gratitude to the people of Appledore for the wonderful and generous time they have given the children during memorable VE celebrations in which her child has been privileged to share. It meant hard work, but it will always live in the their memories, she says.

Geneva Revels.

Kenwith, Abbotsham, has a sale.

Four sons and two sons-in-law were the bearers at the funeral at Appledore Congregational Church of Mrs Evelyn Powe, of Enterprise, Market Street, Appledore. The Rev R W Mould officiated, assisted by Rev H C A S Muller and Rev A R Richards (Seamen’s Misison). Mrs Powe was the second daughter of the late Capt William Stocker, of St Austell, and Mrs Frances Stocker, who also resided in Myrtle Street. Prior to her marriage, she was a member of Mr Vincent’s staff at the Collar Works. Nine children survive her – five sons and four daughters.

An old custom, the painting of a dark blue mourning strip around the three-masted ship Kathleen Mary in which the family is interested, being commanded by his eldest son, Capt Thomas Jewell, was observed at the death of Captain William Henry Jewell, of Vernons Lane, Appledore. In 1891 he married Miss Clara Rees – they had four sons and one daughters, two sons and the one daughter surviving. In 1921 he married at Cardiff miss Bessie Rees, the widow of Mr John Rees who was the gunner on the steamer ss Sante Amelia, torpedoed in 1917 with the loss of all hands. Mrs Jewell, his second wife, was the eldest daughter of the late Mr and Mrs James Bowden.

“It is a matter of great urgency” declared Mr C R Anderson at the last meeting of Bideford and District Chamber of Trade at Tanton’s Hotel, Bideford, when reference was made to a suggestion for utilising the N.F.S station at East-the-Water to meet industrial needs. Mr Anderson said it was an ideal site: labour was here and work was assured for several years. In other places, pointed out Mr Anderson, they had the sites but no labour.

Over £300 has been realised for the British Empire Cancer Campaign appeal made by the Mayor of Bideford, Ald. H W Fulford, by personal letter and a letter published in the Gazette supported by a letter signed by local doctors. About a third of the total was raised by flag day and the balance by direct subscription. Further donations to this tremendous cause, which affects all, would be welcomed.

Dancing successes.

The announcement in a recent issue of The Financial Times that Mr Fred J Sanguine has been appointed managing director of Spratt’s Patent in succession to Mr J W Openshaw, recalls the commercial romance of a Bideford boy who starting as an errand boy in Bideford, has now become controller of a national business undertaking of one and a half million capital and assets of £3,500,000. Mr Sanguine …

The wedding took place at St Mary’s Church, Bideford, of Petty Officer H Hughes and Miss Ruby M Tremeer, eldest daughter of Mrs W J Hudd and the late Mr W Tremeer of High Street, Bideford. A reception was held at Tanton’s Hotel, Bideford, where over 80 guests were entertained. The wedding cake was made and given by Mrs Nugent, Swan Hotel, Bideford. The honeymoon was spent at Clovelly.

Each member of the Buckland Youth Club invited …

A successful whist drive and dance held in Clovelly Schoolroom in aid of the Welcome Home Fund. After expenses, the takings amounted to £23 11s 6d.

Whitsuntide at Clovelly was very quiet, with very few visitors our ‘burros’ had a very east time. The Red Lion Hotel was, however, full. The services at the Parish Church were conducted by the Rector, Rev A S Chandler, owing to the inclement weather, poorly attended.

At Hartland, Mr Claude Mugford represented his Flight ATC at the rally in Hyde Park, London. He is the elder son of Mr and Mrs Lewis Mugford, of Milford Mill.

At the Methodist Church in Hartland, the Rev A Evans Clarke officiating, the wedding took place of Mr Leslie W Littlejohns, second son of Mr W H Littlejohns, of Shears Farm, Morwentstowe, and Miss Joan Walter, eldest daughter of Mr Lewis Walter, of Great Philham. Mr Christmas was at the organ. A reception was held at Harton Manor and Bournemouth was chosen for the honeymoon.

Future of Torrington market is referenced at NFU meeting.

Torrington is continuing in its gesture of presenting £20 to every repatriated prisoner-of-war from the town. This money has been raised by the combined Social Committee of the Home Guard by means of various entertainments, the chairman of the committee being Capt S Kelly, and the hon treasurer and secretary, Mr N L Lockton.

Civic mourners attended the funeral at St Michael’s Church, Torrington, of Mr R E L Penhale, who was Mayor of the Borough in 1911, and was a member of the Town Council for a long period. He was a Borough magistrate of many years’ standing. The funeral service was conducted by the Vicar of Torrington, Rev C j barker. Mr S Parkes was at the organ. The bearers were Messrs S Popham, F W Newcombe, L G Weekes, T Sandford, S Bowden and A G Copp (representing Torridge Lodge, Freemasons).

At the Royal North Devon Golf Club on Whit-Monday there were 21 entries for the Lifeboat Spoon, the competition being in aid of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. This was the club’s first 1945 competition.

Lifebuoy Toilet Soap