Commemorative

Christmas Eve at the Front

An interesting letter has just been received by Mrs Packer, of Broadclyst, from her husband, Corpl Packer of A Company, 1st Battalion Devonshire Regiment, who is serving with the Expeditionary Force in Northern France. In the course of a letter he describes a remarkable incident which occurred on Christmas Eve between the British and German trenches.

Bulkworthy

The Sunday School anniversary in connection with the United Methodists has just been held. On the Sunday inspiring sermons were preached by Mr Yeo, of Bideford, to large congregations.
On Monday afternoon the Rev R E Wilton gave a very interesting address to the children, after which tea was provided in the School-room, the tables being presided over by Mesdames Jones and Walter, assisted by Miss Eveline Jones and Mrs Featherstone, while Mesdames Blight and Hancock were responsible for the management of provisions.
The meeting in the evening was presided over by the Rev R E Wilton. Mr Cleverdon gave the financial report, which showed a substantial credit balance.
Recitations and singing were rendered by the children, and reflected great credit on those responsible for the training. Miss Cleverdon, the chapel organist, presided at all the services.
Gazette article dated 25 June 1918

Town Park Estate Celebrations

An estate ‘Queen’ and ‘Mayor and Mayoress’ were elected when Town Park Estate, Torrington, held its Coronation celebrations on Saturday last.

Proceedings commenced with a tea for all members of the estate. The Mayor and Mayoress of Torrington, Mr and Mrs J H Long, were presented with a bouquet by Miss Angela Plows. Following tea, olde tyme and modern dancing to Mrs A Popham and Mr P Oke on their accordions held the stage.
The ‘Queen’, Mrs Joan Ayre, a brunette, was crowned by Mrs A Balkwill. The heralds, Messrs Fred Muncey and Joe Howells, escorted the ‘Queen’ and presented her to the ‘Mayor, Mrs Ruby Howells, and ‘Mayoress’, Mr Albert Balkwill.
In the wheelbarrow race for adults, Mr W Ayre received a cut nose and minor abrasion in a spill and in the men’s tug-of-war, the rope snapped under the strain and Mr George Drew fell heavily and injured his leg. Another casualty was Mrs K Drew. The day ended with further dancing to Mr A Jones’ radiogram.
The celebrations were organised by Messrs A Pell and A Balkwill, and Mesdames W Ayre and G Drew, assisted by a small committee. Thanks are extended to Mr F Heale, Weke and Mr C Hill of Crowbeare; the Voluntary Silver Band; and Mrs W Sparkes. The table decorations were later given to the Torrington Cottage Hospital.
The full Gazette article is dated 19 June 1953

Old People’s Home Celebration Dinner

Presentation to Secretary

There was a touching scene at The Chalet old people’s home at Westward Ho! on Coronation night when, at a special celebration dinner arranged by the old people and staff, the toast to the Queen was honoured on the proposal of Col J E Cruickshank.
The eighteen residents of the home had all subscribed towards such a dinner and with the help of the staff, led by Mrs Nichol, matron, competitions run and a whist drive organised to help swell funds.
The opportunity was also taken at the dinner of making presentation on behalf of the residents and staff to Mrs Cruickshank in appreciation of her services. She received her gift of a cut-glass salad bowl from the hands of the matron and was accorded glowing tributes to her services.
Earlier in the day the residents of the home had watched the television of the Coronation, a receiver having been hired for the day.
The full Gazette article is dated 12 June 1963