Farmers from across North Devon gathered every year end to celebrate what had become known as 'Capt W Ascott's Manure Audit' and Dinner at the New Inn, Bideford. In 1915 Capt Ascott was unable to attend the dinner as he was 'somewhere in France' and 'leave was difficult to obtain, in fact Impossible just now!' He had sent a letter which Acting President Mr C S Carnegie, JP, read to the assembled farmers. At the conclusion of an excellent and well served repast, a toast was submitted to the King and Queen and Royal Family which was heartily honoured.
In a tradition dating back to the 1900s the Town Alderman entertained a number of the aged poor in Bideford to a tea and social evening at the Baptist Schoolroom. In 1901 the Revd H Trotman addressed a few cheery and comforting words to the old folk. The Revd J B Heard, having recently returned to this Borough, expressed as most encouraging the fact that, despite a larger population, there were fewer public houses and licences issued. Oranges were distributed to the guests as they left after having a very happy -time.
In 1915, the Bideford and District Emergency League had collected and sent away a box of comforts for troops at the Dardenelles. It included 12 Christmas puddings from Mrs Thrupp, mufflers and socks from Mrs Norman and preserved cream in tins, pure Devon chocolate, a parcel of Oxo cubes, tobacco and cigarettes.
On 7 December 1915 the Bideford Wesleyan Band of Hope Society held its Christmas tea and entertainment which was described as 'a real good one'. The Hon. Secretary, Miss A E Langbridge, was assisted by many ladies and there was standing room only for the entertainment which was arranged by Miss E M Luxton. Unfortunately the esteemed Minister, the Revd J T Tyreman, was indisposed but the Revd E B Crocker rose to the occasion 'right well' The singing of the National Anthem brought to an end one of the most successful events this Society had experienced.
On New Year's Day 1916, Mr A G Duncan, JP, chairman of the Bideford Board of Guardians, provided his annual treat to the indoor poor in the Workhouse. This event had continued for many years and this year the special fare included rounds of beef, vegetables, plum pudding and coffee. Mr Duncan distributed tobacco, tea, sugar, sweets, oranges and some money to the 90 inmates.