First Bideford POW to be repatriated

The death occurred at Bideford Hospital on Wednesday, following a brief illness, of Mr Harry Yarde, a well known Bidefordian, at the age of 65. He was the first Bideford prisoner of war to be repatriated from Germany during World War 2, and received a civic welcome home.

Mr Yarde resided with his sister, Mrs A J Prouse, 33 Meddon Street, Bideford. The youngest of seven, he was born at Parkham, and for many years helped on farms at Buckland Brewer and elsewhere, and later became a familiar figure in Bideford. His surviving brothers and sisters are, in addition to Mrs Prouse, Mrs Squire of Avon Road, Mrs Stanbury of Bowden Green, and Mr T Yarde of Providence Row, Bideford.

The Bideford Gazette carried a full account of his return by the last train one evening in November 1943. He was greeted by the Mayor, the late Ald J H Sharley, members of the Council, and a guard of honour from Bideford Home Guard.

The day after his return, he was out greeting Bidefordians smoking a cigar. He was an amiable character, who produced many a smile.

The full Gazette article is dated 19 January 1962