Commemorative

Elizabeth Deneys

Memorial

During World War I, Belgium experienced a significant exodus of refugees with over a quarter of a million fleeing their country to seek sanctuary in Britain. This was the largest influx of political refugees in British history at the time.

There is a memorial to the Belgian refugees who died in Bideford during World War 1 and who are buried in Bideford Higher Cemetery.

By User:Jack1956 - Own work by the original uploader, CC0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=63621600

Elizabeth Deneys

July 31, 1917

“Distressing railway accident at Bideford

Last evening a girl aged eleven years, daughter of a Belgian, M Denys, of the Gas Works Cottages, East-the-Water, and employed at the Government Works, whilst playing ran on to the railway line as a train was passing, and sustained serious injuries. She was at once carried to the Bideford Hospital but the injuries are of such a serious nature that little hope is entertained of her recovery.”

August 7, 1917

“Dr Ellis Pearson held an inquest at Bideford Hospital on Wednesday evening, on the body of Elizabeth Deneys, who died at the institution on Monday night as the result of an accident. Mr J Bright was foreman of the jury.

John Baptiste Deneys identified the body as that of his daughter, who was eleven years of age. She was quite alright when he left home on Monday evening to go for a walk. He heard of the accident some time after. He did not know that the children played on the line. He always told them not to go there and did not blame anyone for the accident.

Beatrice Beer, 13, of Torridge Street, said the deceased asked her to come on to the line. She at first refused, but they went on to the bridge, where she had been before. They sat on the side of the bridge whilst the train was coming, and when Deneys saw it coming she jumped off and the train knocked her down.

1934 map

John Dobbs said he was driving the 6.40 train from Torrington on Monday night. Walter Fewins, fireman on the train, said he first saw the girl just as they were going into the station.

On 13 September 2025, the Mayor of Bideford, Peter Lawrence, unveiled a memorial plaque to Elizabeth Deneys.

Operation Dynamo

Dunkirk 26 May-4 June 1940

Operation Dynamo was the operational name for the Dunkirk evacuation which took place between 26 May and 4 June 1940. More than 335,000 allied soldiers were evacuated from the beaches and harbour at Dunkirk which is in the north of France.

A hurriedly amassed fleet of over 800 vessels – known as the Little Ships of Dunkirk - rescued troops. The flotilla included fishing boats, Thames vessels, pleasure craft, yachts, lifeboats and merchant marine boats which were called into service.

Western Morning News 19 June 1940

21 May 1940

Want a lift?

International events move with such speed and terrible consequences nowadays that it may be, although we all devoutly hope otherwise, that before this issue is printed the Government may have decided to carry out the second scheme of evacuation of school children. Under this scheme, Bideford Borough is due to take 1,500 children and Bideford Rural district 1,000. Mr W J Langford headmaster of Bideford Grammar School is chief billeting officer for evacuees.

The chairman of the canteen section of the Bideford Women’s Emergency Service Committee (Miss A E Lee) wishes to thank all those who have untiringly and generously given of their services and support to the Bideford WVS Canteen and Rest Room during the five months it has been open. As present circumstances are such that the services of the Canteen are not at the moment required it has been temporarily closed. The organised is confident that those who have helped in the past will readily do so again when needed.

Births – to Mr and Mrs G H Haime, a daughter;

Marriages – William Acford and Elsie John; Douglas Clarke and Rosalind Bowden; at Parkham, Thomas Hockin and Dorothy Dunn; G May and Maud Crossman;

Emphasis on the necessity of full cooperation between the contributing Councils and the fire service and on the difficulty of summoning the fire brigade during the daytime now that the use of sirens was prohibited was made by Chief Officer C Morris of the Bideford, Northam and District Joint Fire Brigade of the Joint Fire Committee. The Chief Officer said he did not ask for things without authority and it was up to the Councils to back up the volunteer firemen and the auxiliary firemen for some of them were getting ‘fed up.’ At the present moment he was reduced by more than half of what he had available on September 1. If they had an air raid he would not be able to deal with it as well as he would have been able seven months ago.

Abbotsham WI held their monthly meeting in the Parish Hall. Mrs Grahame presided. The tea hostesses were Mrs Davies and Mrs Glover. Mrs Lampard-Vachell gave a most interesting lecture on ‘Good teeth’. She was accorded a hearty vote of thanks. The prizewinner at the whist drive which followed was Miss M Wheeler.

John Withecombe, a farmer of Cockington Farm, Alwington, was fined £1 with cost on a summons alleging he had permitted the carcases of two sheep to remain unburied in a field accessible to dogs.

To St Mary’s Church, Appledore, Thursday afternoon was an especially important occasion for the Vicar as he rededicated the church organ which has been re-opened after undergoing a thorough restoration, including the installation of an electric blower, tubular heater and three new stops. The Vicar thanked all who had generously supported the fund.

The funeral of Miss Bennett, eldest surviving daughter of Capt and Mrs Sydney Bennett, of 16 The Quay, Appledore, took place at St Mary’s Church, the Vicar, Rev H C A S Muller, officiating. Miss Bennett had been a great sufferer for several years. In earlier days she had occupied situations in several well-know families as nurse and it was evident by the various letters received that she had won the affection and love of many of the children of which she had had the charge, and of their parents. In 1931 she was under-nurse to Lady Rachel Stuarly, a daughter of the Marquis of Londonderry. The bearers were Messrs A Cawsey, W Hocking, J Lunn, R Lamey, F Stevens and A Braund.

The funeral of Mr William Found, of Newport Terrace, Bideford E, took place at the Church cemetery. Mr Found was a naval pensioner and had seen many years service with the Royal Navy. The Rev Chambers officiated.

The wedding has taken place of Mr Archibald May, youngest son of Mr and Mrs W May of 3 Bilton Terrace, Church Walk, Bideford, and Miss Maud Crossingham, of Shirley.

Cordings, The Men’s Shop

That it was aimed at having one hundred groups formed in Bideford, was revealed by Mr W E Ellis, who is chairman of the Bideford National Savings Committee at the meeting of the Bideford and District Chamber of Trade, when an address on ‘National Savings Groups’ was given by Mr D A Jennings, of Exeter. “The first thing we wish to do is to persuade as many people as possible to save. It is an excellent investment for people of limited means.’ Mr W E Ellis stated that now the committee in Bideford had been re-formed, they proposed to make a big drive and to ask every firm in the town to form a savings group.

Bideford Town Silver Band will play dance music in the Park and will give a concert on the Broad Quay, both at 7.30pm. Bandmaster J Heal.

A fine of 10s was imposed on Bertram Beer of Torridge Street, Bideford E for riding a pedal cycle without a red rear light at Yeo Bridge, Littleham.

Ada Dunn and Sidney Ackland, both of Bideford, are fined.

William John Lee, of Winscott Farm, near Bideford, is fined.

At Bideford Borough Petty Sessions Frank Sunderland, of Allhalland Street, Bideford, was fined 10s 6d for driving a motor car not carrying two obligatory white lights to the front and a similar amount because the vehicle had no rear lights. PC Hutchings said there was only one front light on the car.

The funeral took place at Bradworthy Parish Church of Miss Carrie Gliddon, who passed away at he age of 69 years. The Rev A E Dobson officiated and Miss Joan Kerslake presided at the organ.

The wedding of Mr Francis Littlejohns, Eastacott Farm, Clovelly, to Miss Edith Tucker, of Yearistone, Bickleigh, took place at Crediton.

News of the death of Mrs Edith Gregory, wife of the Vicar of Hartland, Rev Ivon Gregory, has been received with deep and widespread regret. The sympathy of many friends and especially of Hartland on whose behalf she had devotedly worked with her husband for over 20 years, is extended to the Vicar and family.

At a boxing tournament held at Barnstaple, Young Farmer Dennis, of Hartland, was knocked out by Tiny Green. Fred Gough of Parkham was knocked out in a contest with Eddie Gill.

The Vicar of Hartland pays the following tribute to Mr John Prouse, oldest man in the parish, who died last month at the age of 90. “He was indeed a staunch churchman and right up to the end he attended the services. When anyone regretted that they could not go to church because of the weather one pointed to John Prouse who diligently went to St Martin’s Sunday by Sunday walking in all weather, even on the bitterest days of last winter, and often without an overcoat. A more loyal man could not be found in the parish. The Vicar for 32 years found him a faithful ally and friend. May he rest in peace and may light for ever shine upon him.”

Mr G A Knapman, of Torrington, was elected chairman for the ensuing year at the annual meeting of the North Devon Joint Isolation Hospital Board. He succeeds Mr F W Moon. Mr J Millman, of Torrington Rural District, was elected vice-chairman.

Congratulations on behalf of the Bideford Council School managers were extended by the chairman, Ald J M Metherell, to Mr C S F Harding, headmaster of Bideford Senior Mixed School, on his 21^st anniversary as headmaster. Ald A R Adams also associated himself with the remarks and said how much they were indebted to Mr Harding for his valuable services. He had turned out the boys very well and deserved their congratulations.

Freehold residence for sale by Dr E H Walker in Torrington. Formerly part of Castle House.

28 May 1940

Helping stranded soldiers.

At last week’s meeting of Bideford Town Council it was reported that the Civil Defence Commissioner, Fire Brigade Commissioner and others had carried out an inspection of the ARP Services of the borough. An inspection had also been made of the Fire Station and appliances. The Commissioners had expressed themselves satisfied in the way in which the services were being carried on and also the way in which the equipment was being kept.

Receipt of an application from members of HM Forces to be allowed to fish in the reservoir at reduced charges was reported at the May meeting of Bideford Town Council. It was decided that members of HM Forces residing or stationed within a radius of five miles of Bideford should be allowed to fish at the reservoirs upon payments of half the usual fee.

As a result of a bridge party held at Tregudda, Bideford, a sum of over £4 was raised for soldiers canteen huts, in connection with the appeal made by Cardinal Hinsley.

A public warning.

All men between the ages of 17 and 65 who wish to respond to the appeal for Local Defence Volunteers should apply to their local police station at the earliest opportunity. Total number of men who have registered for enrolment in the Local Defence Volunteers in Devon is now over 10,000.

Bideford’s morning postal deliveries.

Hartland has given a loyal response to the appeal for local Defence Volunteers formed to combat any possible parachute landings in this country. Most of our farmers are keen sportsmen and know how to handle a gun and many are also ex-service men and so we can promise a warm reception to any unwelcome visitor from the skys.

News has reached Hartland of the death of Mr F W Vine, the third and surviving son of Mr and Mrs P Vine, of Pattard farm, which the Vine family have held for more than 300 years.

Marriages – Ronald Hunkin and Stella Mills; 2^nd Lieut Ian Symington and Elsa Markham Lee.

At the great age of 95 years which gave her the title of one of the oldest residents, if not the oldest, in Abbotsham, Mrs Elizabeth Bucknell passed away at her residence, Little Lynch, Alcombe. Mrs Bucknell, who was the widow of Mr Edwin Bucknell, was a native of Abbotsham, being the second daughter of Mr Thomas Chappel Holman whose family had been established in that locality for many generations.

Appledore is pleased to hear that Mr Donald Cawthron has won a Hamlyn grant and Mr Jacques, a Sir William Reardon Smith grant to the University College of the South-West at Exeter. Both are scholars at the Bideford Grammar School. Mr Mead, also of Appledore, a cousin of Mr Cawthron, has for two years in succession won the chief prize for athletics at Shebbear College.

The many friends and acquaintances of Mrs Emma Quance, wife of Capt William Quance, of Bayside, Appledore, heard with regret of her passing to higher service, at Bideford Hospital, where she had undergone two operations within a few months. Mrs Quance, the elder daughter of the late Mr and Mrs Thomas Parkhouse, was of a cheerful disposition, which she maintained throughout her period of weakness, always hoping for ultimate recovery. She had been a lifelong Methodist and for many years previous to her marriage taught in the Sunday School, and at the time of her death was Chapel Steward. She leaves a husband and son.

The marriage arranged between David Knight and Helen Boyle, will take place at Lavington Congregational Church, Bideford, on June 3^rd. All friends are welcome at the church.

Typical of the many such Empire Day celebrations being held throughout England were those which took place at the Bideford Grammar School and Bideford Senior (Geneva) School. At the Grammar School a special service was observed and the headmaster, Mr W J Langford, read the Empire Day message from Lord Bledisloe. This was followed by the reading of various extracts representing the peaceful quality of the Empire by three masters, Mr S R Clarke, Mr D Harie and Mr R R H Rowe. The proceedings closed with the singing of the National Anthem. At the Geneva School the Seniors and Juniors assembled in the playground with the head teachers – Mr C S F Harding and Miss Guy – and the staffs. The proceedings opened with the saluting of the trophy of the Navy, Army and Air Force flags and the Union Jack, in honour of those now serving and those who have fallen. The Union Jack, hoisted by Mrs W E Ellis, was then saluted. The proceedings were brought to a close by the singing of Parry’s ‘Jerusalem’ and the National Anthem.

An inquest will be held at Bideford Hospital on George Taylor, of 21 High Street, Bideford, who received fatal injuries following a fall from his pedal cycle at Northam. Mr Taylor, who was a cousin of Mr J H Taylor, the famous golfer, had formerly been green-keeper at Westward Ho! and at St Enodoc. He was a popular figure at Northam in which district he had been a gardener for about 21 years. There is a family of three daughter and two sons.

Death of Mr A W Molland of Rockmount Terrace, Bideford.

Scandalous!

A large clod of earth fell from a passing aeroplane and became embedded in the centre of a Bideford tennis court, but fortunately just after the players had finished their game.

Reporting the receipt of a Home Office memorandum giving the outline of a scheme for the issue of stirrup hand pumps for the use of informal fire parties, Bideford Town Council announced it had decided to cooperate in any such scheme. It was stated that should the Council be prepared to cooperate two stirrup hand pumps would be allocated to the borough.

Cinema entertainment.

Stephens, Brain & Co. Ltd, Bideford, offers the complete answer.

At Clovelly Empire Day was duly observed at the Council School and the scholar’s contribution to the Overseas League Tobacco Fund for the fighting men was £1 4s. A cheque for that amount has been forwarded to Sir Evelyn Urench by the headmaster.

At Hartland, Edistone Sunday School anniversary was held, Mr C George of Bude, being the preacher. Helpers at the tea included Mesdames W H Walter, F Jeffery, S Heard and J Heard, Miss J Hill and others. Over 200 attended the Youth Club free night. There were plenty of competitions and music was provided by the Harty Five, Messrs H Prust, W Hill, F Johns, E J Fulford, and G Burrow. Refreshments were served by Mesdames Newton, Fulford, Bagilhole, O’Donnell and Burrow.

Muffled peals at Hartland funeral of Mrs Edith M Gregory.

The wedding took place in Instow Methodist Church of Mr Frederick Jenkin and Miss Sylivia Molland, only daughter of Mr and Mrs Molland, of Torridge View, Instow. The organist was Miss M Anstey. After a reception in John’s Café, Instow, the couple left for a honeymoon in Cornwall.

Included among the eight new appointments of Justices of the Peace for the county of Devon was that of Mr John Heywood, of Burrough, Northam.

Empire Day observed at Torrington Senior School.

Capt Harold Black has been appointed to take charge of Torrington Salvation Army corps in succession to Capt G Watts, who has left for Penryn, Cornwall.

The Torrington Bowling Club, in common with most other North Devon Clubs, have had no definite fixtures arranged for the season, but it is hoped that some friendly games may be arranged with neighbouring towns. A game with Bideford was played at Torrington in which the home team won by 80 points to 69.

Miss Barbara Hutchings, of Calf Street, Torrington, marries Mr Walter Smith, of Parkham.

First tournament of the season of Westward Ho! Hard Tennis Court Tennis Club was held, the winners being Miss F Holwill and Mr Hill, runners-up being Mrs Otway and Miss O Hinks. Supper was served after the tournament and was much enjoyed, Mesdames Hill and Otway being responsible for the catering and organisation.

Large congregations attended the Sunday School anniversary celebrations at Woolsery Methodist Church. The preachers were the Rev G G Roberts and Mr Hallett. The public tea was well patronised. Ladies presiding at the tables were: Mesdames J Wonnacott, Chidley, Gerry and J Burrow, assisted by Miss Ivy Cook, Mrs t Easterbrook, Mrs W Hill and Miss M Vanstone, Mrs Hamlyn, Mrs Daniel and Mrs Beer.

4 June 1940

No alarm …

Government Evacuation Scheme

If Bideford receives evacuated children …

It was alleged that a Bideford man, of Torridge Place, East-the-Water, when told he would be reported for having an unscreened light, threatened to ‘chuck’ two members of the special constabulary out of the house. “It must be clearly understood that interference with members of the special constabulary in the execution of their duties will not be tolerated,” said Sergt R L Gammon, who presented the case for the prosecution. The defendant pleaded guilty. This particular light, said Sergt Gammon, had caused the police some trouble for a considerable time. It was visible from the police station. The Bench imposed a find of 25s, the Mayor, Mr J H Bright, observing it would have been less severe if defendant had not insulted the police.

Frederick Skipworth, retired Army officer of Springfield, Chanters Lane, Bideford, was fined 15s and witness’ expenses for allowing a house light to be visible during the blackout. For a similar offence relating to an office, George Wren, clerk of Ashley Terrace, was also fined 15s. Sergt Gammon said this offence related to the window of the Rating Office at the Town Hall.

Decision not to adopt a suggestion of the County Council in regard to making up the salaries of employees joining the forces was made by Torrington Rural District Council at their May meeting. The voting in support of such a course was nineteen to three. The Chairman, Mr J Millman, said it would not affect them very much. There were only six lengthmen and two others, including the surveyor, who were concerned. The Surveyor, Mr L R Jackson, said the roadmen in all but one or two cases would be getting more in the Army than in civil life.

The Editor has received a letter from a corporal of troops formerly at Westward Ho! thanking the people of Appledore, Northam, Bideford and Westward Ho! for the kindness bestowed upon them. He adds “I am sure our regrets at leaving you all were as sincere as your hospitality.”

Appledore helps shipwrecked mariners. The Vicar and Mrs Helen Muller wish to thank all who kindly helped to sell flags at Appledore, those who supported this excellent society that does so much good in these sad days of seafaring tragedies. Receipts were from Miss Monica Tucker and Miss Barbara Tatem, Miss Ellen Scilly, Miss Iris Labbett, Miss Rene Young, Miss Betty Balsden and Miss Gweyneth Evans.

Marriages – by special licence, Charles Hearn to Barbara Osborne; David Knight to Helen Boyle.

There were many expressions of sympathy at the funeral of Mr Jack Griffiths, of South Road, Appledore. For a number of years Mr Griffiths had been boatman for the Taw and Torridge Sailing Club, and in the last war he served in the Navy. The funeral took place at Appledore Methodist Church.

A pretty but quiet wedding took place at St Mary’s Church, Appledore, the Vicar, Rev H C A S Muller, officiating. The bridegroom was Mr Samuel Reynolds, nephew of Mr and Mrs James Long, ret. RN, of 7 One End Street, Appledore, and the bride Miss Doreen Cummings, only surviving daughter of Mr and Mrs George Thomas Cummings, 5 Norman Terrace, Northam.

Their Royal Highnesses the Prince and Princess of Sukhodaya, together with their suite, are staying at Knapp House.

Many friends attended the wedding at Lavington Congregational Church, Bideford, of Mr David Knight and Miss Helen Boyle. Both bride and bridegroom are valuable helpers of Bideford Hospital, at which the bridegroom, who is manager of the Bideford branch of Messrs Holman, Ham and Co. Ltd, is dispenser. Mr Knight served with distinction in the flying corps in the last war. Miss Boyle is a member of the choir, leader of the primary helpers and also of the Young People’s Fellowship. A reception was held at No. 5 Queen Street, Bideford. Later Mr and Mrs D Knight left for their honeymoon which is being spent touring, and they were the recipients of 150 wedding presents.

Mr and Mrs G H Farleigh, of Bideford, arrived home by air from Rangoon, after an exciting passage which included landing landing at Marseilles in the middle of the German air-raid. They are staying at Belvour Terrace, Bideford.

Mobilised for the Home Front – Braddicks, Bideford.

Wanted

Sir Robert Fosset’s Gigantic Circus and Zoo is visiting Bideford.

In the course of arbitration proceedings under the Workmen’s Compensation Act, and after a ‘pin-prick’ test by three doctors, Mark Scoynes of Meddon Street, Bideford, is awarded judgement against Messrs J U Fulford and Sons, for compensation at the rate of £1 5s a week from March 14, 1940.

At Clovelly, the Sunday School anniversary was held in the Methodist Chapel. Mr T Burton, of Bideford, being the preacher for all services. At the children’s flower service, a lovely lot of flowers were brought by the children and later sent to London to three different East End Missions.

There was a large attendance at the funeral of Mr John Headon Short, son of Mr and Mrs A Short, of Fore-street, Hartland, who died at East Cowes. The coffin was covered with the Trinity House ensign. The service was at the Methodist Church.

Canon Frederick Earle d’Anyers Willis, of Taw Cottage, Instow, has left estate of the gross value of £4,858.

On any future occasions when members of Northam Urban District Council get over-enthusiastic in the course of debates – as they have been known to do in the past – they will be called to order by the use of a gavel, which, with its stand, was presented to the Council by Mr F Wilkey to mark his three years’ chairmanship of the Council. An inscription on the stand states ‘Presented to the NUDC by Councillor F Wilkey Chairman 1934-35-36.’ Accepting the gift with thanks, the Council could not refrain from a little leg-pulling, one member suggesting that if an extension was put on the gavel the chairman could use it in a more effective method on any transgressing councillor than by merely striking the desk!

At Parkham, on Empire Day, the children gave a short programme of national songs and hymns, commencing with the National Anthem. The Empire Day message was read by the headmaster, Mr T S C Biddick and the Rector, who was accompanied by Mrs Hensley, gave a suitable address. The scholars collected over 14s to send to the troops for chocolates and cigarettes, this being the scholars’ own donations.

Chairman of Torrington Rural Council, Mr John Millman.

William Tillotson, of Silverlands Cottage, Little Torrington was summoned at Torrington County Sessions for driving a motor-car without a driving licence, and also for having no lights on his motor-car during the hours of darkness. A find of £1 for each offence was imposed.

At Torrington Sub-Committee of Bideford and Torrington Guardians Committee, it was reported that no applications had been received for the post of assistant nurse at the institution. The Clerk said they were having great difficulty in getting nurses all over the country. The chairman, Ald J Squance, said the money was not sufficient. The Master, Mr E Minhinnet, reported there were now 74 patients.

No mermaids appeared although the schoolboy who was seen playing his violin on the rocks at the water’s edge at Westward Ho! during the week was evidently inspired.

The wedding has taken place at Allhallows Parish Church of Miss Edith Prance, only daughter of Mr and Mrs W Prance of Merry Harriers, Woolsery, and Mr Kenneth Martin, second son of Mrs W and the late Mr W Martin, of Kennaland, Brandis Corner. The bride was attended by two cousins, Misses Vera Dack and Winnie Prance. A reception was held at the bride’s home and later Mr and Mrs K R C Martin left for their new home at Alverdiscott. The happy couple were recipients of a large number of presents. The bride’s bouquet was placed afterwards on the grave of the bride’s grandmother in Woolsery churchyard.

Children of Woolsery School on Empire Day contributed 10s towards gifts for the fighting forces. Each child was presented with an illustrated souvenir certificate.

Go to Robert Yeo’s for your summer needs.

11 June 1940

Awards to local naval officers – Capt Stevens-Guille and Sub-Lieut Tillie (HMS Hotspur).

A memorial service was held at St Mary’s Church, Appledore, for Mr Eric Bennett who recently lost his life at sea through enemy action, being the first resident mariner from Appledore to do so in the present war. He leaves a widow and one son.

Mr Eric Powe, younger son of Mr and Mrs J Powe, of Enterprise, Appledore, has safely reached his home in Bude Street, after a fortunate escape from the ss Brighton Queen, four miles outside Dunkirk.

Appledore was sorry to hear that Sapper Alfred Fisher, younger son of Mr and Mrs Henry Fisher of Pitt Hill was wounded in the hand at Dunkirk and that Corporal Jones, RAF, was wounded in the thigh whilst flying. Both are in hospital in England. Mrs R Vaggers of Church Field, Appledore, and Mr and Mrs Arthur Evans, of Meeting Street, Appledore, whose sons, Joseph Vaggers and Donald Evans, are stewards in a steamer, have heard that they have been saved after their ship had been lost through enemy action.

Farmers needed extra labour for harvest and other seasonal work …

War Savings Campaign public meeting in the Town Hall, Bideford.

Overcoming the war ‘hazard’ first.

Bideford Town Council have decided to purchase 500 copies of the recent government publication ‘Your home is an air raid shelter’ for re-sale to the townspeople at the cost price of 3d. Copies are on sale at the municipal buildings and will also be sold by volunteers in the town.

What Appledore is doing …

Heralded by a procession around the town, with music by Bideford Town Silver Band, National Savings Week opened in Bideford. Watch the large wooden thermometer on the Town Hall which will record the local response to the campaign!

Feeding the family in wartime …

Births – at Anchorway, to Mr and Mrs J Hearn, a daughter, June Diane.

Marriages – Sergt D Cooper, RASC, to Ida Slee; Mr Alfred Reed to Miss Gwen Taylor.

Writing in the May issue of the Hartland Deanery Magazine the Rector of Alwington, Rev R W Groom, records “Since it is impossible for us to embark on the restoration of our church bells until after the war, the Church Council at their last meeting decided to invest the money already collected. Now a receipt of £150, invested in the name of ‘the Rector and Churchwardens of Alwington’ is in the church safe.”

In honour of the 64^th birthday of the Vicar of Appledore, Rev H C A S Muller, the flag was flown on Appledore church tower.

Petty Officer L Squire and Miss K M Brennan are married at St Mary’s Church, Appledore.

The engagement is announced of Raymond Sinclare, youngest son of Mr and Mrs T Sherborne of Bowden Green, Bideford, and Mary Grace, youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs G Collacott, of Union Street, Bideford.

More on the story of Mr and Mrs G H Farleigh of Bideford …

Alexandra Rose Day in aid of Bideford & District Hospital …

Fire Brigade called to an outbreak at the Gunstone Old School in Bideford.

Members of the Bideford Salvation Army Home League spent an enjoyable time at Ilfracombe on the occasion of their annual outing.

One who will be remembered as a ‘good old sportsman’ and an interesting and popular personality of Buckland Brewer, Parkham and district, Mr Charles Smale of Brendon Farm, has passed away. A cheerful and active figure, he was keen on sport with the gun or with the hounds and he had won many prizes for clay pigeon shooting. In his earlier days he served in the Royal North Devon Hussars and could recall some interesting episodes in his camp training at Yeoldon Park. His jovial manner won him many friends.

Buckland Brewer WI.

At Clovelly, a concert and dance was held in the Long Passage, by kind permission of the Hon. Mrs Asquith. The concert was given by the Merrymakers Concert Party under the auspices of Cyril Maude Concert Parties. Proceeds were in aid of the Red Cross. Those taking part included: Messrs J R Ellis, J Gorrell, T Holloway, B Newton, Miss Lee, the Bideford School of Dancing, under Miss J Grant, and the Versatile Five.

Many relatives and friends mourn the death of Mrs Emmeline Gifford, of Biteford Farm, Hartland. She was born at Natcott Lane, daughter of Charles and Elizabeth Ann Littlejohn, and was married at Stoke to Mr William Gifford who survives her, as do two daughters, two sons and a granddaughter. There was a large gathering at the funeral which Rev G G Roberts officiated.

Mr Benjamin Pennington died at Stoke. Familiarly known to hundreds of people as ‘Uncle Ben’ had done trapping on most of the farms in the parish, making many friends, being of a quiet and sociable disposition.

Weddings for Lundy Island – Miss Ruth Harman, and Mr Stanley Horsham.

The Vicar of Appledore, who is priest in charge of Lundy, paid one of his welcome visits to Lundy. He conducted services, including the baptism of Master Anthony James Albert, the infant son of Mr Thomas Horsham, the head gardener of Lundy, and Mrs Winnifred Horsham. There was good attendance at the ordinary services including several members of the Trinity Services, Islanders and visitors. On his visits, the Vicar is the guest of Mr M C Harman and Mr F W Gade and Mrs Gade.

By invitation of Mr and Mrs Leslie Braddick, a garden party in aid of the trust funds of Bridge Street Methodist Church was held at Yeoldon, Northam.

Red Cross new quarters at Torrington.

The Rev B S W Crockett will be coming to assist at Torrington Parish Church it is announced in the June issue of the Torrington Deanery Magazine. He succeeds the Rev H Rhodes.

An appeal has been issued in the Torrington area of the Devon County War Agricultural Executive Committee for volunteers who will hold themselves in readiness to work on any farm where there is a danger of the crop being lost for lack of labour. These volunteers are to fill the gaps, not to replace existing workers, and they will be paid full agricultural wages. Volunteers in the Torrington district should give in their names and addressed to Mr Warren, Barclays Bank House, Torrington.

In order to facilitate the calling together of firemen during the daytime, Torrington fire brigade have decided to ring a hand bell, of a similar tone to that of the fire engine, from a motor car in motion. This is to enable firemen, who happen to be out at the time when the bell rings in their houses, to know that a fire call has been received.

Mrs Edith Dent of Hallaton, Westward Ho! left estate of the gross value of £2,971.

Fields of gold at Weare Giffard Hall.

Mr G W G Hutchings, president of the Northam and Westward Ho! Chamber of Commerce, organised a most successful dance at the Kingsley Gym.

Inez Mitchell, a pupil of Woolsery West School, has won a scholarship to Edgehill College, Bideford.

Appledore RNLI 1825....

What is the Royal National Lifeboat Institution?

The National Institution for the Preservation of Life from Shipwreck was founded in 1824 by Sir William Hillary and with the King as its patron, became the Royal National Institution for the Preservation of Life from Shipwreck. By 1850, it was almost in a state of financial failure but the new Secretary, Richard Lewis, had big plans which included a journal called The Life-boat, and a publicity drive. On 5 October 1854, it changed its name to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, and since the charity launched its first lifeboat in 1824, the RNLI has saved more than 146,000 lives at sea.

The RNLI aims to reach any casualty up to 80km from its stations, and within 2 hours in good weather.

History of Appledore Lifeboat Station

“Appledore lifeboats have never lacked gallant volunteer crews – or the backing of public interest. Few lifeboat stations can boast such a long and splendid history. It is a stirring story, a rich tapestry of undaunted service no matter what the hazards are."

A lifeboat service started in February 1825 and the boat kept in the King’s Watch House at Appledore. The “Volunteer” was number 1 of the 12 lifeboats ordered by the Institution and arrived in Appledore on 28 February 1825. She was pulled by four oars and fitted with air cases for added buoyancy and was on station for 31 years during which time she saved 89 lives. A new boat house was built at Watertown, which was nearer to the sea and large enough for 2 boats. A third station was built at Northam Burrows in 1851 and expanded in 1856. The boat house at Northam Burrows was replaced by that built at Badstep in 1889.

The North Devon Journal and General Advertiser – September 17, 1829

‘…the gale still raging with unabated fury, a vessel was seen amongst the breakers at the back of the Burrows in great distress; she was watched with intense anxiety by several persons from the hill, who observed a boat from Clovelly making towards her, but which, from the violence of the breakers, was utterly incapable of reaching her; at this moment, the Rev E Corbishley, reminded them that they had a lifeboat which might render the sufferers assistance; but a difficulty arose which was thought to be insurmountable, how she should be got to the beach; the urgency of the case stimulated exertion and encouraged by the lively feelings of humanity which animated the breasts of several present, the boat was removed by manual exertion from the cellar where it had remained useless from the time it was first granted to the port; at this juncture of time William Tardrew, Esq. of Annery, rode up and applauding the plan of employing the lifeboat by his presence and influence soon increased the number of hands, who persevered in dragging her two-thirds of the way across the Burrows, when the further assistance of horses was obtained, but unfortunately she was not furnished with lashings, oars, nor any necessary accoutrements; notwithstanding this, such was the intrepidity and dexterity of the sailors she was presently alongside the vessel, and soon returned with six of the sufferers, and returned with four others; the third trip she brought the captain on shore. We think it is a debit of justice to record the names of the brave men; Captain Philip Guy, Owen Smith, William Brinsmead, Fairfax Fishwick, and James Harvey; William Harry, Isaac Matthews, William Johns, Samuel Blackmore and Thomas Chadwick.’

The “Volunteer” service to the “Daniel” 1829 - Mark Richard Myers

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette – May 21 1831

Exeter Flying Post – March 20 1834

‘The Mayor of Bideford, Thomas Burnard, Esq., has received a Silver Medal from the Humane Society, as a reward for his intrepid and humane conduct in being the first to get into the lifeboat at Appledore and encouraging sailors to join him, through a tremendous sea, to the Elizabeth, lately wrecked on the back of Northam Burrows, and bringing all the hands away (fourteen in number) and safely landing them at Appledore.’

It was reported in 1849 that ‘no less than 100 persons had been rescued from 10 vessels and there was only one vessel connected with the locality, the John and Mary, of Appledore, in which two lives were saved.’ This showed that ‘although the expense of the station was met chiefly by the locality, the benefits were almost exclusively confined to the shipping of distant ports.’

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette – October 21 1843

Woolmer’s Exeter and Plymouth Gazette – June 6 1857

‘The Royal National Life Boat Institution for the Preservation of Life from Shipwrecks has recently stationed two new life-boats at Appledore and Braunton, in lieu of the two boats that were previously there, which were 30 years old. These life-boats which are on the design of James Peake, Esq.,

Royal Cornwall Gazette, September 19, 1862

‘A large and fine new lifeboat, mounted on her transporting carriage, has just been forwarded by the National Lifeboat Institution to Appledore, a dangerous point on the Devonshire coast. The boat is 34ft long, 7ft wide, and rows 6 oars single-banked, or 12 oars double-banked. Her self-righting qualities were fully and satisfactory tested a few days ago in the Regent’s Canal Dock, Limehouse. The boat was built by the Messrs Forrest, of Limehouse. The transporting carriage of the boat was built by Mr J Robinson, of Kentish Town, London. The cost of the lifeboat and carriage was presented to the Institution by Mrs Ellen Hope, as executrix of her late husband, the Rev F W Hope.'

In 1865 in the Bury Times, a story about Mr Joseph Cox, aged 63, who is still hale and hearty and narrates his hairbreadth escapes as coxswain of the Appledore lifeboat.

North Devon Journal, March 1, 1866

‘The Ixda, a Portuguese brig, 150 tons register, Alevo master, from London to Cardiff, drove ashore on Bideford Bar during a north-west gale on Friday night, and has become a total wreck. Her crew, ten in number, were gallantly rescued by the Hope, Appledore lifeboat. There was a London pilot on board, who mistook the Bar for the Nash lights. The crew of the lifeboat behaved nobly, being several times beaten back by the heavy surf before they could reach the distressed ship.’

In 1869 ‘Honest Joe Cox’ receives an honour from the Elder Brethren of Trinity House, and medals and rewards were presented to the crews of the Appledore Lifeboat for their recent services in saving the shipwrecked mariners on Northam Burrows.’ Also reported – the widow of David Johns, who lost his life whilst on gallant lifeboat service, was presented with £500, raised by public subscription.

October 16, 1869 (Royal Cornwall Gazette)

‘At the last meeting of this Institution it was reported that altogether the Institution’s boats saved ninety-four lives and five vessels during the storms of the past month. Various rewards were likewise voted to the crews of different shoreboats for saving life from wrecks on our coasts. Payments, amounting to nearly £3,000, were ordered to be made on various lifeboat establishments…..’

The North Devon Journal, August 5, 1875

‘A new lifeboat for Appledore – The necessity of a second lifeboat being placed at this station having been made manifest by the turning over and disabling of the Hope, on her second trip to the barque Pace, on the memorable 28th of December, 1868, and the late Mr W Yeo, of Richmond House, having made an offer to the parent society of the sum of £100 towards maintaining a new boat; the Society, early in 1869, sent the Mary Ann, a six oared boat, the gift of the late Mrs M A Walkers; but the boat, after sundry trials, having been found by the coxswain and crew unsuitable for the place, in consequence of her long fore gripe rendering her difficult and dangerous to wind in a weaway, and this having been represented by the local committee to the parent society, they at once resolved on sending a suitable boat to take her place. This boat arrived at Bideford railway station on Tuesday last, and was on Monday,….

Here the procession was met by Capt J Williams, the oldest member of the local committee, who, although now in his 87th year, still continues to take a warm interest in all matters relating to the lifeboat. At this point, a very interesting scene took place, for the crowds assembled, male and female, on being appealed to by a member of the committee to lend a hand, at once laid hold of the hauling line, and speedily had the boat up in the street; nor were they satisfied with having taken her thus far, but asked permission to haul her through the streets to the Western Hill. This being granted, they, amidst the deafening cheers of the assembled multitude, soon had her at the place above-named. This was a simple but hearty demonstration of the interest taken in the lifeboat work by the inhabitants of this place."

The Bideford Weekly Gazette, February 1, 1887

"We are glad to hear that the new lifeboat "Jane Hannah MacDonald," recently sent to the Appledore Station by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, is to be tested as to her self-righting properties at Appledore on Thursday, the 3rd of February next, at 12 o'clock noon, under the inspection of Captain LaPrimandaye, RN. Increased subscriptions in aid of this noble Institution are earnestly solicited."

The Bideford Weekly Gazette, February 19, 1889 – Resignation of members of the local committee

'The Local Committee of the National Lifeboat Institution are unanimously opposed to the removal of the lifeboat from Northam Burrows to West Appledore, a change which the Parent Society has resolved upon effecting in response to a petition recently prepared and sent to them by Mr J Field...'

The Bideford Weekly Gazette, March 12, 1889

“The annual meeting of the local branch of the Royal Lifeboat Institution was held in the Town Hall, Bideford. A B Wren, Esq, was voted to the chair and there were present Rev R Granville, Capt Chichester, A L Christie, Esq, Rev R W S Vidal, Admiral Thrupp, Surgeon Major fuller, Messrs Field, Tedrake, Capt Palmer and Mr R Molesworth. The Chairman, having explained that the object of the meeting was the election of a Committee for the ensuing year. Mr Tedrake at once arose and proposed that instead of a formal re-election of the old members, a practically fresh committee should be elected.

The Bideford Weekly Gazette, July 2, 1889

A new lifeboat house for Appledore

The Bideford Weekly Gazette, December 21, 1889

"Appledore New Life-Boat House – On Thursday morning last the lifeboat Jane Hannah MacDonald stationed at the back of the Burrows was taken out, examined by the Life-boat’s Institution Inspector, tried on the bar, and finally pulled into Appledore to her new house that has lately been erected, at a cost of nearly £800 chiefly through the instrumentality of Mr Field. On arriving at the new slip she was placed on the carriage and a team of horse, men, and boys hauled her up to her new locality amid cheers for the life-boat, the Institution and the local Committee. Seeing Mr Charles Chapple, the donor of the freehold upon which the new life-boat house is built, coming along the beach the men ran to him, shouldered him, and, with rounds of cheers, carried him to the boat. Mr Chapple said he sincerely hoped that the placing of the life-boat on the old spot would be the means of saving many lives. He is always ready to assist the sailors and the institution.”

The Bideford Weekly Gazette, January 28, 1890

"The crews of the two lifeboats Jane Hannah MacDonald and Robert and Catherine, which recently rendered such splendid service at the rescue of the crew of the Penthesilea, were entertained at tea by Captain and Mrs Blakeney, at the Sailors's Rest, Appledore, on Thursday, the men's wives being also invited. After the tea an interesting meeting was held, Captain Blakeney presiding..

The Bideford Weekly Gazette, June 10, 1890

"The Appledore lifeboat crew on Wednesday brought the condemned Hope to Bideford railway station, to be sent to London for complete overhauling. They took back the new boat and placed iton the Northam Burrows station until the return of the Hope. The Hope, drawn by ten horses, arrived at Bideford at noon, and the return journey to Appledore was commenced at four o'clock. The lifeboat crew, dressed in full costume, were in the boat, and they cheered as they passed through Bideford streets."

Joe Cox, Richard Bowden, John Williams, William Jenkins, Nathaniel Cox, James Braund, Jonathan Taylor, Duncan Cole, James Screech, Philip Lamey, Joe Lawton

The Bideford Weekly Gazette, October 20, 1891 – Joseph Cox retiring

The Bideford Weekly Gazette, December 21, 1891 reported that a new lifeboat, Bessie Pearce, has been sent to Appledore, the cost of which has been defrayed from a legacy bequeathed to the Institution by the late Mr Alexander Love, of Dublin.

The Bideford Weekly Gazette, 25 January 1898 - a rescue

The Bideford Weekly Gazette, May 14 1907

"The Appledore lifeboat, Jane Hannah Macdonald, which has been stationed at Badstep for over 20 years, was taken to Fremington by water, and thence sent away by rail, as she is to be replaced on the Appledore Station by a motor lifeboat, which is expected to be ready before next winter. The Jane Hannah Macdonald was a splendid sea boat, but was always considered by the crew to be a heavy boat at the oars. But they, nevertheless, had every confidence in her. Before she was sent away one of the lifeboats was sent up from Clovelly to do duty until the new boat arrives."

North Devon Gazette, April 30 1907

"The funeral took place in St Mary’s Churchyard, Appledore, on Wednesday afternoon, of Joseph Cox, the late coxswain of the Appledore lifeboats “Hope” and “Bessie Pearce”, whose death took place on Monday. Deceased held a good record for lifeboat work, having been partly instrumental in saving upwards of 100 lives. There was a large attendance at the funeral, amongst those present being Dr W A Valentine, Mr J N Tupline, Mr J Harvey (Sailors’ Rest), Mr A Goodwin, Capt B Jewell. The coffin was borne by the following lifeboatmen, in blue jerseys, and wearing their cork jackets: Messrs R Batten (coxswain), H Blackmore, Dummett, Boatfield, T Harris, T Taylor, Bignell, Berry, Ford, Cole, Bates and Moyse. The service at the graveyard was conducted by the Rev R F Trevaldwyn. A splendid wreath of arum lilies and lilies of the valley, sent by Admiral Sir Wm Dowell, G.C.B., bore a card with the inscription “From Admiral Sir Wm Dowell, with deep respect for the memory of Joseph Cox, late coxswain of the Appledore lifeboat, who, by his skill and courage, was the means of saving a large number of lives.” A wreath was also sent by deceased’s son, Mr John Cox, and another by his little grandchildren. The coffin was of polished pitch-pine, and was supplied by Mr P K Harris."

A report on the life-boat service in 1908 states “Although the storms and gales of the year 1908 provided plenty of work for the Life-Boats of the Royal National Life-Boat Institution and their gallant crews, the year as a whole, was not a remarkably boisterous one. The heaviest gales of the year occurred on the 6^th-8^th March and the 31^st August-1^st September. On the first occasion 62 lives were saved and 5 vessels, and 13 other persons were landed., 19 life-boats being launched; whilst during the other gale mentioned, 28 Life-Boats were launched, resulting in the saving of 7 lives and one vessel, 59 persons in imminent danger being also landed. Between the 1^st of January and 31^st December, the Institution’s Life-Boats were launched on service 407 times, in addition to which crews assembled in readiness of service on 55 occasions, when their help was not ultimately required. The total number of lives saved in 1908 by the Life-Boats was 393, and by the shore-boats and other means, for which the Institution granted rewards, 152, making the grand total for the year 545 lives saved. As many as 39 vessels and boats were also saved from total or partial loss. The number of lives for which the Life-Boat Institution has granted rewards since it was established on the 4^th of March, 1824 – some 84 years ago – has now reached 47,800. The cost of maintaining the Institution’s large fleet of 280 Life-Boats in thorough efficiency is very great, and increased; but the financial support received from the public in annual subscriptions and donations is quite inadequate for the purpose. Further help is therefore much needed. Annual Subscriptions and Donations will be thankfully received and acknowledged by the Secretary, Charles Dibdin, Esq, 22 Charing Cross Road, London, WC, by any of the Branch Honorary Secretaries, and by all the Bankers in the United Kingdom.

North Devon Gazette, 9 February 1909

"Duties of the Lifeboat Service"

In May 1910, the ceremonial launch of the new lifeboat, Jane Hannah Macdonald III, was postponed owing to the death of King Edward. It took place in August 1910 and was reported on 6 September.

“Bideford annual regatta, was more than usually attractive, was the official launch of the new Appledore No. 1 lifeboat, a ceremony which had been postponed in consequence of the death of King Edward…The Jane Hannah MacDonald is regarded by the Appledore lfieboatmen as a great improvement upon the boat she replaces, being larger and more suitable in every way for the work likely to be required of her on the North Devon Coast. The new boat is of the self-righting type, and is 35ft long, with 8ft, 6in. beam, and she weighs 3 tons 19cwt. 2qrs. Her rig is described at no. 1, modified. She pulls 10 oars. The boat was endowed by Mrs Macdonald.”

In May 1910, R Dymond & Sons is advertisng a 'Lifeboat Day' for 8d.

North Devon Gazette, May 28, 1912

North Devon Gazette, October 1, 1912

"We regret to announce that about 7am on Wednesday morning last, the death occurred at his residence, 30 Market Street, Appledore, of Mr Robert Batten, the well-known and highly respected ex-Coxswain of the Appledore No. 1 Lifeboat. For some time past Mr Batten had been in ill health, but up to the last few months he was able to be out about and during the summer he would sit on the Quay when it was fine. For a large number of years this lifeboat hero had command of the "Jane Hannah Macdonald," in which he saw many adventurous trips in the service of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, and was instrumental in saving many lives. He had been more or less acquainted with lifeboat work all his life, and succeeded Mr J Berry, of Appledore, as Coxswain. Being a river and bar pilot he was well acquainted with the various channels for navigation, and this ably fitted him for his onerous post. When dressed in his 'soutwester' and cork jacket ready for an emergency he was a typical lifeboatman, and his genial and happy disposition made him very popular."

The North Devon Journal, February 18, 1915

"The lifeboat was called out on Saturday morning to the assistance of the ketch Sultan of Braunton. On entering the harbour the ketch grounded on Airy Point, but with assistance of the lifeboat crew, it was got off. Flares were burnt, and Capt Hocking, of the Merion Lass, blew a powerful whistle when sailing past the lifeboat station."

The North Devon Journal, February 17 1916

"As the ketch St Austell belonging to Capt S Guard, of Irsha Street, Appledore, was coming over the bar on Thursday night in a heavy gale she struck just inside the Bar and signals were sent up for assistance. The lifeboat Robert and Catherine was at once launched and took off the crew, the captain being one of the owner’s sons. The vessel was bound to Barnstaple with a cargo of coal and it is feared she will be badly strained, as she is lying in the full force of the tides. An effort to get her off was made on Monday."

Western Morning News, February 21, 1919

Mr Plummer presides...

In May 1925, the death of and funeral of the late Mr John Carter took place. "The deceased had for over forty years acted as signalman and winchman of the lifeboat, assisting Captain Stephen Hare in earlier days, the members of the committee and the lifeboat crew attended, the latter under Coxswain George Craner and Vice-Coxswain Stephen Bignell acting as bearers. Miss Beatrice Hooper presided at the organ, and the following hymns were sung: “Peace, Perfect Peace,” “Rock of Ages” and “Eternal Father, strong to save,” the latter being most impressive, as there were many seafaring men present. Mr John Harvey read the Lesson, whilst the Vicar referred to Mr Carter’s efficient discharge of his duty in quickly assembling the crew to rescue the perishing."

1925 Appledore Lifeboat Centenary - reported 25 August 1925

"In addition to the Lifeboat Flag Day at Appledore, a centenary celebration concert was given in the Gaiety Cinema, which was crowded, the popular prices making admission within reach of all. The arrangements were in the hands of Councillor Alfred Green and a committee of Messrs J H and Alex Green, W L Beara, A Bellew and A Reed. The nautical programme provided was full of the spirit of the sea, bright and breezy; at times reflecting the rollicking humour of Jack Tar, yet rising to the sublime as the celebration tableau reached its climax…The celebration proper took the form of a musical scena and tableau, “The Warriors of the Sea,” arranged and presented by Mr Alfred Green, who acted as narrator during the item. In a few introductory remarks he reminded his audience that history could produce no finer, braver men than some of the storm warriors around our coasts; those who time after time went “over the top” into the midst of the tempest, facing death to succour and to save. And he was proud to know that the records showed that down through the century, the men of the Appledore Station had always stood in the front line of lifeboat service…The narrator proceeded to give a brief history of the Appledore Station, from the placing of the ‘Volunteer’ in 1825 to the present day…At this point Chief Officer Hannam, of HM Customs, sand with telling effect “Asleep in the Deep,” the audience being held spellbound. The narrator then introduced six little girls, who on behalf of all assembled, would place wreaths of laurel upon the Cenotaph in honour of the brave coxswains and crews during the hundred years…The six little girls were Doris Harbourd, Rosila Harris, Esther Reed, Dolly Grey, Margory Grey and Florence Lamey."

Lifeboat centenary

The Bideford Weekly Gazette, April 16, 1929

"On Tuesday afternoon members of the Appledore life-boat crew and fishermen carried the late Pilot Richard Bowden to his last resting place, his funeral taking place at St Mary’s Churchyard, Appledore, the Vicar officiating. Pilot Bowden reached the age of 78. He was probably the last of those gallant seamen who held office in the life-boat “Hope” whose two famous coxswains, Nathaniel and Joseph Cox, steered them to many a rescue. Mr Bowden was associated with the notable rescue of the crew of the large sailing ship Penslia and also the famous work done at the double wreck of the Pace and Leopard. Pilot Bowden was a fine type of sailor, knew no fear, and loved his boat the Little Wonder, in which he used to board the ships and catch fish. He was the son of the late Mr John Bowden and was the last of twenty one children. He served under Capt Milton in the famous tea clipper Titannia. His wife’s name was Miss Emma Staddon and they were married 54 years.”

North Devon Journal, January 17, 1935

"Appledore lifeboat was called to the assistance of the Ilfracombe motor fishing craft, Lee Bay, which was seen to be in difficulties off Baggy Point, effecting a gallant rescue. The lifeboat eventually reached Ilfracombe with the three Ilfracombe fisherman who formed the crew of the Lee Bay on board. The lifeboat was at sea for some hours and for a considerable time anxiety was felt at both Ilfracombe and along the coast. The first intimation that the men had been saved came from Clovelly, where, with a clear view across the bay, the signal from the lifeboat that the men had been reached was recognised. Later there was a message that the lifeboat was proceeding to Ilfracombe with the rescued men."

$17.1.1935 Lee Bay Ilfracombe$

1938

‘Violet Armstrong’ is named and dedicated, a new £8,000 lifeboat for Appledore, donated by Mr Gordon Armstrong, of Beverley, Yorks, in memory of his wife, a daughter of the late Mr J Widgery, of South Molton.

Reported in late 1942 “At the annual meeting of the Appledore Branch of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, it was reported by the president (Capt. the Hon D Scott) that during the past year the lifeboat had been out on service three times. On two occasions search was made for reported aircraft crashes, but, happily, the planes were subsequently accounted for and the lifeboat recalled to base. On one of these calls the lifeboat was out for twenty-four hours.”

In late 1944, Coxswain Sidney Cann was awarded the Royal National Life-Boat Institution’s bronze medal; J Hooper, the Appledore motor mechanic and wireless operator, and Coxswain George Lamey of Clovelly, received its thanks on vellum; and £95 to the crews and launchers of the two stations for rescuing fifteen lives from two phoenixes, the caissons used for building the breakwater of the Normandy invasion port.

The Exter and Plymouth Gazette dated 16 March 1945 reports “The Royal National Life-Boat Institution has made rewards of £26 to its crew at Appledore, for going to the help of a stranded American steamer, and for rescuing an airman from his rubber dinghy.”

Reported on 16 June 1950

"On both Sunday and Monday Appledore lifeboat was called to the rescue of people drifting out to sea on rafts from Westward Ho! beach, having been blown out by the brisk off-shore wind. On Sunday afternoon two Barnstaple men were rescued from their drifting Commando-type raft. When the lifeboat crew, under Coxswain Sidney Cann, took the men off, the raft was nearly two miles off Westward Ho! beach. The occupants had no paddle. The men were landed at Appledore none the worse for their experience."

The Western Morning News, October 24, 1950

“The Vicar of Appledore, Rev H C A S Muller, asked the congregation at St Mary’s Church, on Sunday evening to join in the National Anthem to mark Princess Anne’s christening and the 145^th anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar. Mr Muller reminded his listeners, drawn largely from seafaring families, that Lord Nelson’ coxswain was an Appledore man named Cox, two of whose descendants had been coxswain of the Appledore lifeboat. One of Nelson’s signallers, Daniel Jenkins, was also an Appledore man, and it was probably that he helped to hoist the famous signal.”

17 November 1950

"There was an echo of the gallant part played a year ago by the Appledore lifeboat, with Clovelly and Ilfracombe lifeboats, when the Spanish steamer Monte Gurugu sank in the Bristol Channel, at the annual meeting of the Appledore branch of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, at Bideford Town Hall. Presentation of the vellum of the RNLI to Coxswain S Cann, of the Appledore Lifeboat, recording the award to him of the Institution's bronze second service clasp for services on this occasion, was made by the President (Capt. the Hon D Scott) and high tribute accorded to Coxswain and crew. It was reported that the Spanish Lifesaving Society had also made awards in recognition of this service."

Also reported at the same meeting, "At the commencement of the meeting, the President referred to the loss sustained by the branch in the death during the past year of Miss K Lloyd, Mrs T R Sandford and Mrs Moberly, and the meeting stood in silent tribute. Mrs Bulkeley spoke a special appreciation of Miss Lloyd's work for the lifeboat cause over thirty years."

It was reported in March 1956 - "Wednesday was a proud day for ten-year-old Bobby Cann, of 20 Irsha Street, Appledore. At the annual meeting of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution at the Central Hall, Westminster, H.R.H the Duchess of Kent presented him with the R.N.L.I thanks on vellum and Bobby..."

In August 1957 the Violet Armstrong, Appledore's lifeboat, is damaged...

Reported 22 June, 1962 - Northam Urban Council is dismayed that the Louisa Anne Hawker won't be christened at Appledore ...

"Several hundred people shared in the naming and dedication ceremony for Appledore's new £40,000 lifeboat, the 'Louisa Anne Hawker' which was held on Bideford's river bank in the brillian sunshine. A stand had been specially erected there and Royal National Lifeboat Institution flags and emblems decorated the scene, with the new lifeboat, gaily beflagged, standing off-shore. Lady Roborough, wife of the Lord-Lieutenant of Devon, who performed the naming ceremony, said: "May God bless her and all who will sail in her," as she pressed a button which, from the stand, released the traditional bottle of champagne on to the bows of the lifeboat. The lifeboat is the gift of Dr G P D Hawker, of Exeter."

Read about Appledore's lifeboat contribution to the rescue of the seamen onboard RFA Green Ranger in November 1962 - HERE

On 7 December 1962, the following article appeared..

18 September 1964

'No help needed' was the message received from a five-ton yacht which went aground on a sandbank at the mouth of the Taw-Torridge estuary, but the local lifeboat secretary, Capt P Brennan, ordered the Appledore lifeboat to stand by the yacht as a precaution. Some hours later the lifeboat took aboard two men and two women from the yacht, which had become holed. With the help of a rescue helicopter from RAF Chivenor a line was secured to the yacht and it was towed, sinking, back to Skern Bank at Appledore, where she was beached. At high tide she was submerged. The yacht, named Volunteer, got into difficulties when the anchor chain parted.

19 February 1965

"Mr H E (Bosun) Carter, of 1 Pitt Avenue, Appledore, has been appointed acting coxswain of the Appledore lifeboat to work alongside Coxswain Sidney Cann until March 19^th when Mr Cann retires. The question of a permanent appointment will follow at a later date. Mr Carter, who is 39 and a son of the late Capt Leonard Carter, first went to sea as a youngster with his father and on leaving school joined the Merchant Navy in which he served during the war. Then he joined the Royal Navy in which he served until 1956 rising to the rank of Petty Officer Sailmaker. Subsequently he served some years as master of a tanker, and a few years ago returned to Appledore where he carries on his trade as a sailmaker. He is married and has three children at school. In recent months he renewed association with the lifeboat in which as a young man he occasionally went out when there was a vacancy. Two other members of the lifeboat crew are retiring: Second Coxswain Jack Bowden and Coxswain Cann’s nephew, Mr William Cann, the bowman."

In the newspaper on 19 March 1965, Coxswain Cann puts to sea for the last time

Reported 26 March 1965

"On the eve of his retirement (his 65^th birthday) and in appreciation of his services to the training of pilots from RAF Chivenor in sea survival, Coxswain Sidney Cann, of the Appledore lifeboat, was presented with a radio set bought with contributions made by several fighters squadrons now stationed in various parts of the world and from staff at the local RAF station. Helicopter crews from RAF Chivenor also presented him with a picture of the Appledore lifeboat and Hunter and Lightning pilots gave him a cheque of £10. The gathering was at the Beaver Inn, Appledore, and among the good wishes were those from Ilfracombe maritime radio station – timed to the minute! Coxswain Cann served in the Appledore lifeboat crew for 50 years."

May 8, 1970

"The picture of a lifeboatman and the RNLI flag, against a background of sea, is a collage made up of 17 different kings of English postage stamps, and is the work of Capt Colin Lowry, of Buckleigh, Westward Ho! It took Capt Lowry, a former secretary and now chairman of the Appledore branch of the RNLI, 80 hours to complete. Now he is putting it to work on behalf of lifeboat funds by means of a competition to estimate how many stamps were used. Capt Lowry collects stamps on behalf of lifeboat funds and it was seeing them in a colourful heap that suggested to him the idea of making a picture out of damaged ones. He was helped in designing the picture by Mr James Paterson, of Bideford."

Reported in October 1973

"Appledore lifeboat service has had its busiest year since it was established in 1825. To date there have been 26 service calls in which 23 lives have been saved. The big lifeboat has been called on seven services with five lives saved and the inshore boat 19 times with 18 lives saved. “This year’s figure has been phenomenal compared with other years” Appledore lifeboat secretary Ivor Wickersham told the Gazette. What prompts men to leave their families and the warmth and security of their homes, sometimes on bitter winter nights, to risk their lives to save those of others? Humanity, certainly, and probably tradition. Financial reward certainly not. The fee for turning out is £1.25. When the maroons go off, signalling that someone is in ‘peril on the sea’ there is a concerted rush to the lifeboat house – and nearly always someone is disappointed. Priority is given to the four retained members of the service. The crew is made up by the next three to arrive unless a later arrival is considered outstanding by comparison. In the old days it was not unknown for men to fight for a place in the boat. The families of Cann, Cox and Bowden can claim generations of service. The accompanying picture of crew and helpers is the first to have been taken for years."

Left to right are: R Cann, P Ford, M Bowden, J Wills, R Fisher, B Williams, Eric Wartnaby, J Heard, J Pavitt, E Evans, D Cox, M Lee, S Dymond, I Wickersham, and kneeling, J Harris

Bideford and North Devon Weekly Gazette, 3 January 1975

"Money raised by RAF Wildenrath in Germany will be presented to Mr John Oliver, joint secretary of Appledore branch of the RNLI, and crew member Mr Clifford Edwards, to cover the cost of an inshore rescue boat for Appledore. The sum involved is £5,000."

Ivor Wickersham - Lifeboat Hon. Sec

An article in the Bideford and North Devon Weekly Gazette dated 17 January 1975 commemorates one hundred and fifty years service by Appledore RNLI. “The first Appledore lifeboat, named the Volunteer, cost £90 to build; the cost of a modern lifeboat now runs well into six figures. The Volunteer served sturdily for over 30 years and was first housed in a barn and then in the nearby King’s Watch House. Her first rescue service was to the sloop Daniel and on this occasion one of the three silver medals awarded went to Owen Nile Riordean Smith, an ancestor of Sir William Reardon Smith, shipping line of Cardiff, and well known in the Appledore district. Some 23 RNLI silver medals and three bronze medals have been awarded to Appledore lifeboatmen. Typical of the families who for generations have been associated with the lifeboat service at Appledore are the Canns and Bowdens."

4 November, 1977

Reported 10 March, 1978

"The babies of two members of the Appledore lifeboat crew were baptised on board the boat in a double ceremony alongside Appledore Quay. A ship's bell was specially borrowed for the occasion, which was the first double of its kind at Appledore. Baptised were Faye, the daughter of Mr Clifford Edwards and his wife Angela, of Appledore, and Matthew Roy, son of Mr Roy Harkness and his wife Elizabeth, who also live at Appledore. The ceremony was conducted by the Vicar of Appledore, the Rev Donald Peyton Jones."

10.3.1978 Appledore RNLI christenings

Herald Express, Monday, May 3, 1993

“Seven schoolchildren from London were rescued after their adventure centre boat started filling with water in the Torridge estuary at Appledore, North Devon. The youngsters, aged 13 and 14, were unhurt after the incident. They spent more than 15 minutes in the water before being picked up by the Appledore lifeboat.”

Evening Herald, December 6, 1994

"A Liberian registered freighter has docked in Minehead after its crew was forced to cut anchor when the vessel was blown towards the North Devon coast in force seven winds. The Appledore lifeboat, a helicopter from RAF Chivenor and Swansea coastguards were all on standby to come to the aid of the 14,000 tonne Ocean Pilgrim which was on its way from Greenock to Falmouth, but the vessel was cut free by crew just before midnight. The ship spent the night sheltering at Lundy Island and has now reached Minehead."

On Sunday 11 July 1999, at Appledore Lifeboat Station, a service of thanksgiving was held to commemorate the 175^th anniversary of The Royal National Life-Boat Institution.

A list of boats at Appledore and Watertown Stations (not exhaustive)

1825-1858 – Volunteer

1831-1848 – Assistance

1847-1852 – Petrel 1

Appledore (Braunton Burrows)

1848-1857 – Assistance

1857-1866 – Dolphin

1866-1881 – George and Catherine

1881-1902 – Robert and Catherine I (the gift of Miss Leicester of Bayswater)

1902-1912 – Robert and Catherine II

1912-1918 – Robert and Catherine III

Appledore (Northam Burrows)

1851-1852 – Petrel

1856-1862 – Mermaid

1862-1890 – Hope

1870-1875 – Mary Ann I

1875-1885 – Mary Ann II

1885-1889 – Jane Hannah MacDonald

1889-1891 – No. 8 Reserve LB

1891-1897 – Bessie Pearce

Appledore Lifeboat Station (Badstep)

1889-1907 – Jane Hannah MacDonald I

1907-1910 – Jane Hannah MacDonald II

1910-1922 – Jane Hannah MacDonald III

1922-1938 – V.C.S (the first motorised lifeboat named after the sponsors)

1938-1962 – Violet Armstrong

1962-1986 – Louisa Anne Hawker (a gift from Dr G P D Hawker)

1986-1987 – Laura Moncur

1987-1988 – Kathleen Mary

1988-2010 – George Gibson

2010 - Mollie Hunt

Inshore Lifeboats

1972-1973 – unnamed reserve boats

1974-1986 – Wildenrath Whizzer

1986-1997 – Manchester and District XXXII

1997 – Vera Skilton

1997-2012 – Douglas Paley

2012 - Glanely

Station honours (not exhaustive)

The following are awards made at Appledore.

RNLI Silver Medal

Owen Nile Riordon Smith, Master Mariner - 1829

William Brinksmead, Master Mariner - 1829

Philip Guy, Master Mariner - 1829

Captain William Chappell, Master Mariner - 1833

Thomas Tuckfield - 1834

Thomas Chappell - 1834

Henry Popham - 1834

Thomas Burnard, Hon.Secretary, North Devon Humane Society - 1834

Thomas Day, Coxswain (Bideford) - 1836

Thomas Burnard, Hon.Secretary, North Devon Humane Society - 1840 (Second-Service Clasp)

Captain Joshua Williams, Coxswain (Bideford) - 1846

Captain John Marshall - 1850

Captain Joshua Williams - 1850 (Second-Service Clasp)

Joseph Cox (Snr), Coxswain (Appledore) - 1861

Captain Thomas Jones of the Steam Tug 'Ely' - 1866

Joseph Cox Snr, Coxswain (Second-Service Clasp) - 1869

Joseph Cox Snr, Coxswain (Third-Service Clasp) - 1869

Joseph Cox Jnr , Second Coxswain - 1869

John Moulton Kelly, crew member - 1869

James Harvey Smallridge, Coxswain (Braunton) - 1872

James Harvey Smallridge, Coxswain (Braunton) - 1891 (Second-Service Clasp)

Joseph Cox Jnr, Coxswain (Appledore) - 1891 (Second-Service Clasp)

Sidney Cann, Coxswain – 1963

Silver Cross of Merit awarded by The Emperor of Austria

Joseph Cox Snr, Coxswain (Second, Third Clasp) - 1869

Joseph Cox Jnr, Second Coxswain - 1869

John Moulton Kelly, crew member – 1869

Spanish Silver Medal

Sydney Cox - 1950

Silver Medal awarded by The Spanish Society for Saving the Shipwrecked

Coxswain – 1949

RNLI Bronze Medal

George Henry Eastman Pow, Second Coxswain - 1935

Sidney Cann, Coxswain - 1944

Sidney Cann, Coxswain - 1950 (Second-Service Clasp)

John Richard Bowden, Second Coxswain - 1964

John William Pavitt, Helmsman - 1986

Michael Bowden, Coxswain - 1995

Gary Stanbury, Helmsman - 2005

The Walter and Elizabeth Groombridge Award 2005 (for the outstanding inshore lifeboat rescue of the year)

Gary Stanbury, Helmsman - 2005

The Thanks of the Institution inscribed on Vellum

Sidney Cann, Coxswain - 1959

Dr D F Valentine - 1971

John William Pavitt, crew member - 1971

Diplomas awarded by The Spanish Society for Saving the Shipwrecked

Each of the crew - 1949

Wrist Watch

Robert Cann, aged 10 – 1956

Names added to the Book of Valour of the British Medical Association

Dr Brook - 1966

Dr Ruddock – 1966

Start
Prev
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Next
End

Welcome to the Bideford & District Community Archive

Welcome to the Bideford & District Community Archive

Robins Win The Hansen Cup

Cadds Down Farm

Crowning Glory

Liquidator appointed

Elizabeth Deneys

Memorial

Operation Dynamo

Dunkirk 26 May-4 June 1940

Appledore RNLI 1825....

What is the Royal National Lifeboat Institution?

1966Trapnell Brothers meet in Golf Final

1945One of the "Old School"

1948Where Bideford Rope-Makers Walked

Historic News

FOOD FACTS for expectant mothers +

The Nations Remembrance Poppy Day Field of Remembrance +

Bideford and District Annual Horse Show +

No Rise For 20 Years +

P. M. Barrow The Famous West of England Bone-Setter will visit today +

If you would like to book a talk
by an Archive volunteer
please get in touch

If you would like to book a talk
by an Archive volunteer
please get in touch

Towns & Villages

More

Registers

Topics

Photographs

Login Form

Welcome to the Bideford & District Community Archive

Welcome to the Bideford & District Community Archive

Town's second woman mayor in 392 years 19 March 1965

Chess - their bridge over the years 24 January 1964

Town's second woman mayor in 392 years

19 March 1965

Chess - their bridge over the years

24 January 1964