December 1922

Christmas Postal Arrangements includes a full delivery on Christmas Day.

An interesting ceremony took place at the Custom House, Appledore on 28th November, Mr Richard G Ash, late Chief Officer of Customs at Appledore, being presented by Mr W Woollven, Collector of Customs and Excise, Plymouth, with the Imperial Service Medal.

Appledore has lost one of its oldest inhabitants and seafarers in the person of Mr James Hutchings, whose death occurred at Homeside Terrace, Appledore. Deceased was a very familiar figure in the port and well known to the sailors. Born and bred in Appledore his career has been that of a true ‘son of the sea’. He had travelled far when still a young man, in the days of the old ‘clippers’ and had a most interesting career. He was one of the last of the Blockade Runners of the American War, and saw much service on the old wine ships which traded in the Mediterranean. He preferred to remain in the post he held although he could have had a captaincy.

To highlight the revival in shipping trade, the story of an Appledore motor schooner (unnamed) is reported. This vessel brought a cargo of 350 tons of coal to Bideford for the Gas Company, immediately reloaded with 350 tons of Marland Clay for Antwerp and returned home with a similar amount of basic slag, all this with no reported delays in port.

For those of a charitable bent, the Mayor of Bideford Mr H Willett Huxham appeals for surplus garments for older people and toys for young children and the Matron of Bideford Hospital would be grateful to receive donations and gifts in order that the patients have some Christmas cheer.

The Palladium in Bideford has been taken over by Mr Norman Robertson, recently manager of two picture houses in Bristol.

Annual Prize Day for Bideford Grammar School. Sir James Owen, of Exeter, who was formerly for many years associated with Bideford, distributed the prizes. The function which was largely attended was presided over by Mr H N G Stucley, chairman of the governors, supported on the platform by the Mayor of Bideford, Mr H Willet Huxham, Messrs C S Carnegie, A C Duncan, J M Metherell, W H Chope, T A Goaman, the headmaster Mr J Stuart Fergusson MA, and Mr T A Fogaty. Certificates, scholarships and prizes were given to: L P Pound, B I Day, C W Smith, H W Beara, W C Sussex, R R Joll, R C Slee, C R Copp, H J Jennings (‘Duncan’ Scholarship), R A Fergusson (Head Master’s Scholarship), H K Jones (Head Boy Prize), J R Wear, R K Giles, W P Rudkin, J W Kievill, T Andrew, O N Ellis, F I Heywood, L W Short, S P Copp, W J Piper, J Curtice, G B Fergusson, R W Wills, F Lake, H R Bartlett, S Thomas, F Huxtable, F Molland, C Reddaway, W E Ellis, S Heywood, L Ashplant, A M Congdon, R J Sutherland, E H Burnett, P Giddy, C F Harris, W H Hunt, W H Unett, E F Richards, C Green, L T Lock, S J Snow, W L Williams, C H Cox, F T Langdon, J B Halbert, P P Wadey, G M Durant, N Newcombe, S Hutchings, H C D Boase, D B Leonard, T A Chamings, D W Friendship, J E Wooh, R B Taylor, F S Coull, A W Perkins.

Still on the subject of education, a row has erupted between the County Education Secretary and the Medical Officer for the area. It seems that children are being sent home from school because of Pediculosis (head lice), then the parents are being prosecuted for non-attendance. Mr J M Metherell said that parents should not be treated as criminals, as it was not always their fault that their children “became verminous”.

In other transport related news, Robert Edward Jollow was fined for negligently driving a horse and cart without having control of the reins in High Street and Mill Street in Bideford. In his defence Jollow said he only put down the reins to light his cigarette. Two accidents have been reported - one involving Mr John Squire, engine driver for Marland Clay Company at Torrington, and the other occuring at Holsworthy.

Mrs M A Hookway, 1 Geneva Place, Bideford, promotes the use of Doan’s Backache Kidney Pills.

In connection with ‘B’ Company, 6th Battalion Devonshire Regiment, a very successful Fancy Dress Ball was held in the New Drill Hall, Bideford. There was a crowded attendance in the gaily decorated hall, the officers present including Capt Wicksteed and Lieut Holwill (Torrington Detachment), Lieut Gammon and other officers of the Battalion; CSM M R Couch, CSM Pickard, Sergt Gilbert, PSI, Sergt A Dunn, Sergt Hancock and Sergt West. CSM Couch ably carried out the secretarial duties, and the excellent arrangements made contributed greatly to the very enjoyable evening. A first class programme was rendered by the orchestra, and Sergt J West carried out the duties of MC most effectively. The fancy dress parade was a conspicuous success, and reflected the greatest credit upon the participants. The competition was of the keenest, and the best thanks of promoters and entrants alike are due to Mrs Wicksteed and party of friends from Torrington for so carefully carrying out the duties of judges. The awards went to: Miss D Braddick, Mr Holwill, Miss O Braddick, Mr G Braddick, Miss F Kivell, Mrs Woods, Mr Leo Williams. The refreshment stall was well managed by Mrs M R Couch, Mrs A Dunn, Mr W Pickard, Mrs Hooper and others.

The Royal Blind Pension Society has secured a pension of £9 per year for Mr R T Fletcher of 11 Cooper Street, Bideford.

Trewin and Son, have had some enquiries for their Patent Reedcomber in the Hartland Parish and hope to be able to send the machine there at an early date. Should any farmers in the Parish wish to use it will they kindly communicate with Arthur Trewin, Lew, Bradworthy, as early as possible. The Machine can also thresh if required at the same time.

The pupils of Bradworthy County School have collected £2-14-2d for Dr Barnardo’s Homes. The school is so proud of this total that it names all the young collectors – Mary Cornish, Frances Nancekivell, Elisabeth Gildon, Albert Trewin, William Headon, Leonard Manning, Joseph Dunstan, John Bryant and Alfred Ham.

A Young Ladies Hockey Club has been formed at Clovelly. A meeting was recently held in the Council Schoolroom when the following officials were appointed: Captain, Miss Ida Bushell; Vice-Captain, Miss Kathleen Beer; Treasurer, Mrs Bushell; Hon. Secretary, Miss E A Somerville. The following members have already started practice and a team capable of engaging in matches should be soon available – Mrs J Cruse, Misses Molly Arnold, Ida Bushell, Ida Bond, Kathleen Beer, Annie Colwill, E Canton, Rosie Douglas, Jessie Dunn, Annie Foley, Maud Harris, Lily Headon, Frances Gist, Florence Headon, Doris Marchant, Margery May, E Somerville, Bertha Slee, Marie Squire, Jeannie Jewell and E Johns. It has been decided that the Club’s colours be mauve and gold. Donations to the Club’s Funds already received amount to £1 7s 6d.

The presentation of the prizes awarded by the Rector and Chairman of Managers, Rev T L V Simkin, to those scholars who were honourably mentioned by the Examiner at the recent examination in religious instruction took place at the Council School in Clovelly. The books were presented to Stephen A Headon, Walter Bromell, Daniel Cook, Dorothy White, Grace Slee, Eva Prouse, Dorothy Foley, William Cook, Frank May, Phyllis Harding, Arthur Pinnock, Grace Beer, Frank Harris, Jack Beer, Leonard Finch, William Slee, Stephen Headon, John Cruse, Dorothy Riley, Marguerite Riley, Maud Harris and Rose Douglas.

Hartland news - the children of Elmscott Council School have collected for Dr Barnardo’s Homes: B Jeffery, E Prouse, J Cloke, Ed Metherell, and A Metherell. Providence Missionary sermons were preached by Rev J T Perry. Mr E Hill was chairman at the evening meeting when the deputation gave a thrilling account of his life in France as Chaplain to the Forces. Rev Orchard gave an encouraging report of the work in China and Africa. The total proceeds including collections by Mr Bromell, Grace Cleave, Willie Slee and Willie Goaman were £10 17s 4d.

The Parish Church of Instow was the scene of a pretty wedding when the Rev J B White officiated at the marriage of Miss Charity Louise Hurley, daughter of Mr and Mrs Edward Hurley, of 9 Victoria Street, Barnstaple, and Mr Charles Henry Brayley of Yeo Vale. Attendants were Misses Florence Hookway and Hilda May Peters with Mr George Henry Tossell as ‘best man’.

Children at Lovacott Council School were given a tea and Christmas tree by the kindness of Mrs W Yeo of Belladown. Mr Balman took the role of Santa Claus, assisted by Mrs Paton.

Northam Council General Purposes Committee reports on a meeting with local Motor Bus proprietors, the majority of whom are definitely not in favour of running to a time table.

A large and appreciative congregation in Northam Parish Church heard an excellent rendering of Mendelssohn’s Hymns of Praise by the Choral Society, conducted by Mr Clifford Grout. Two modern morality plays have been performed under the direction of Mr Treavett with performances at the Station Hall in Westward Ho! and the School Room in Northam.

A jumble sale at Parkham with an exhibition of game heads in Penhaven Barn.

A Whist Drive and Dance has been held in Parkham's Council’s Schoolroom in aid of funds for the football Club. Miss Warfield of Hoops, kindly lent a piano and Miss Braddick and Miss E Dark played for dancing. Successful competitors at the ex-Service Men’s Whist Drive were Mrs Ebsary, Mr A Saunders (playing as a lady), T Kelly, Mr Kelly, William Hammett, Mr Berg. The box of chocolates for guessing highest score, Mr G Weeks.

In Parkham, Mrs S Cleverdon of Tucking Mill leaves a grown up family to mourn the loss of a good mother.

There were many expressions of sympathy at the double funeral in Torrington of Mr and Mrs Thomas Kelly, who had passed away within 48 hours of each other, aged 89 and 85, in Bideford. Mr Kelly and his wife (then Miss Grace Trigger) were married in 1857 at Roborough parish church by the Rev W Gurney. They reared a large family and eleven children survive them, two being in the United States. For several years Mr and Mrs Kelly resided at Torrington and later removed to Bideford living with their daughter, Mrs C West at 7 Lime Grove, where they died. The bearers were Messrs J Lake, H Folley, F Baker, H Squire, G Walters, and W J Brimacombe.

About 450 children of members of Torrington Industrial Cooperative Society were entertained at the Drill Hall, the artists being the “Bijou Concert Party” from Bideford. At the close, each child received a gift of sweets.

Household furniture and outdoor effects are for sale from Culver House, Hallspill, Weare Gifford. Mrs Chipman is leaving.

The news of the death of Mrs Elizabeth Ann Braddon, which occurred at Venton, Weare Gifford, was received with much regret in the district. The wife of William Braddon she had resided at Weare Gifford for forty years. The interment in the churchyard being preceded by an impressive service in the parish church. The immediate mourners were Mr W Braddon, Messrs Jack, Will, Tom, Alf and Charlie Braddon, Mrs Alford, Mrs Pearson, Mrs Pike and Miss E Braddon, Miss M Braddon, Mr and Mrs J Slee, Mr H Alford, Mrs J Braddon, Mr W Braddon, Mr W Burnett, Mr M Burnett, Mrs C Squire and Mrs Batten, Mr and Mrs Lake, Mr and Mrs Jewell, Mr and Mrs Gilbert, Mr Short, Mr Wilton, Mrs Grigg, Mrs Gomer, Miss Braunton, Miss Becklake, Mrs Taunton. The bearers were Messrs F Beer, B Beer, J Beer, C Squires, F Wise and W Johns.

December 1972 

Births and anniversaries announced – Iris and Brian Chapple, a daughter; Julee and Randolph Massie, a daughter, Pennie Claire, welcome sister for Scott and second grandchild for Wenna and Ian; Bob and Pam Morgan, a daughter, Claire Susan; Seed-Walker – on December 9th 1922, John Robert to Myra; Keen-Fisher, December 6th 1947, Victor to Beatrice; Maureen and Clarence Dunn, twin girls; Sylvia and Guy France, a son, Stuart Martin, a brother for Robert; Carol and Alan Hold, a daughter, Deborah Ann; Gerry and Jenny White, a son, Brandon David, a brother for Stephen; Brogden-Elston, December 22nd 1947, Valerie Eileen to Edward George; Rendle-Taylor, December 27th 1947, Marion to Lenard; Smallridge-Farthing, December 26th 1947, Kenneth Harold to Emily; Nellie and George Poole, their 50th wedding anniversary on December 15th; Hemmings-Willott, Walter to Ethel, December 21st 1912; John and Margaret Brimacombe, a daughter, Claire Louise; John and Diana Gilbert, a daughter, Ruth Suzanne; Greenslade-Storey, Sydney to Mary, December 23rd 1922;

The organ repair fund at Alwington Church benefited by £100 as a result of a Christmas Fair held at the Village Hall. The Rector, Rev T Nicholls, officially opened the sale. Stallholders included: Mesdames C Metherell, A Glover, Mrs Elston, Misses A Lott, M Daniel, Mesdames N Westaway, W Turner, T Nicholls, R Smythe, Biggs, V Westlake, B Parr, G Lewis, G Boundy, H Hillman, O Lewis, H Williams, W Allin. Posters were designed by Miss A Wills (Bideford). Draw winners were Col J Pine Coffin, Mrs Biggs and Mrs Peskitt.

Fifty years to the day after the Rev Gilbert Molesworth, of Berrimans, Northam, was ordained in Truro Cathedral, a service of thanksgiving was held at Alwington Parish Church. A fitting venue because the living is in the gift of Lieut-Col E C Pine-Coffin, a lifelong friend – they went to school together – and near neighbour of Mr Molesworth. It was in 1957 that the latter, in semi-retirement, returned to the area where the family have had a home for more than 150 years. His grandfather sold Northdown Hall to the Convent. The Rev G Molesworth held livings at Laddock and Bradford before returning to the West Country, where, based in Bristol, he did Industrial Christian Fellowship work that took him also to the factory and mining areas of South Wales. Before returning to North Devon he was at Castle Carey. At the celebration were the Archdeacon of Barnstaple, the Rector of Alwington, as well as three generations of the family. They included the older two of three sons, Mr Michael Molesworth and Mr J E N Molesworth. Mr and Mrs Molesworth also have a daughter and there are six grandchildren.

One of three young engineers to be presented with certificates of craftmanship at the first presentation evening held by the North Devon Group Training Association, formed in 1970, was Mr Roy Bennett, of 7 New Street, Appledore. Mr Bennett, who has been employed by Whiteland Engineering Ltd for five and a half years, received his award from Mr Frank Metcalfe.

Visit Ford & Lock in Bideford for discounted prices and savings for Christmas.

‘Fish out of water’ the latest production of Bideford Community College drama group, proved their best yet. The three-act comedy by Derek Benfield was ideally suited to this small company. Portraying the adventures of a very mixed group of English tourists on the Italian Riviera, it ends, of course, with romance – one expected and one quite the opposite. As the dominating Agatha Hepworth, Betty Maynard captured much of the attention, and Edie Hill’s sympathetic portrayal of the pitiable Fiona Francis also won praise. The mere appearance of Cyril Squires as the pathetic Mr Mallett brought laughter from the audience. Geoff Skinner and Audrey Jones as Brigadier and Mrs Hubback tried to remain aloof from the fellow guests; Dora Cowley the friendly ‘clippy’ with a yearning for romance was a lively study by Christine Ellis; Jane Walters was the Italian waitress Marisa; Mike England the holiday tour representative, Julian Whittle; and Steve Ball the ‘would be wolf’ Len Barrett. The play was produced by Bob Terrell, Barbara Terrell was prompt and Fred Jones, stage manager.

Civic greetings were extended by the Mayor and Mayoress of Bideford, Mr and Mrs J W Needs, to Mr and Mrs Walter Hemmings, of 5 Willow Grove, who celebrated their diamond wedding. Mr and Mrs Hemmings moved to Bideford three years ago. Their daughter, Mrs E M Cogin and her husband live next door.

Bideford AAC junior fours crew, West of England champions, have been presented with personal cups given by Mr and Mrs Charlie Tallin of the Portobello Inn, in recognition of their achievements in the past season. At an enjoyable evening as guests of Mr and Mrs Tallin, they were presented with the cups by Miss S Sparey. In the photo are Messrs J Uren, R Ford, E Shortridge, C Talllin, D Butler, Miss S Sparey, Mr E Scott, and N Paddon.

One of West Devon’s best known agricultural personalities, auctioneer Mr William John Cory – 89 – and still working as usual was honoured at Bradworthy, where he lives at Sunway, with a ‘this is your life’ tribute. Mr Cory’s work for local organisations was evidenced by Mr George Jacob, for Woolsery Show; Mr Bob Kivell for Holsworthy Show; Mr Alfred Saunders for the Methodist Church; Mr R G Pomeroy for Bradworthy Memorial Hall; Mr C T Collacott for Bradworthy British Legion; and Messrs W L Wickett and F W Slee, former employees. A telegram was read from Lord and Lady Caradon, and a letter was sent by a former Methodist minister, the Rev Ron Dale. Relatives on the platform included Mr Cory’s sisters, his brother, his sister-in-law, and his nieces. The programme also included music and song by the Melodymakers. Mr Shaddick acted as compere.

Major development at Buckland Brewer? The provision of a new village hall and playing field could be tied up with future development at Buckland Brewer, it was hinted by Mr Tom Bonetta.

A Buckland Brewer property is for sale.

Clovelly County Primary School presented ‘The wild wood’ to an audience of parents and friends as part of the end of term and Christmas celebrations. Those taking part included: Tanya and Karen Goaman, Donna Stoneman, Tina and Alice Perham, Diane Sines, Katherine Howarth, Antony Grills, Michael Cook, Tommy and Stephen Perham, Christian Halliday, Michael Smith, Alan Dart, Cathy Jewell, Stephen Goaman, Robert Pengilly, Susan Braund, Heather Bryan. The infants presented a nativity play, those taking part including Yaninka Krot, Paul Taylor, Josephine and Joshua Howarth, Jillian Smith, Sean Braund, Philip Vanstone, Heather Hallem, Jennifer Sines and Wendy Thompson.

From the New Year St. John’s Church, the chapel-of-ease bordering Hartland Square, will cease to be used for worship. This decision has been made by the Parochial Church Council in view of the cost of maintaining the building and the fact that the large parish church of St Nectan, two miles from the township, now has a heating system and a special local bus service operates on Sundays for worshippers.

Hartland Methodist Church’s annual Sankey evening and men’s supper realised about £50. The church was full to capacity. Rev G R Beadon, chairman, conducted the evening and those taking part were: Bideford Town Mission; Mr and Mrs Jennings (Tetcott); and the Bradworthy Cross Singers. Guest organist was Mrs H Walters. Helpers at the supper tables were: Rev G R Beadon, Messrs G Cottle, P Thorne, A Manley, B Heard, A Thorne, E Short, C Westlake, W Thorne, B Allin, S Littlejohns, T Olde, A Walter, A Cory, R Stevens, D Walter, W Burrow, J Heard, F Colwill, F Pickard, M Macer, W Heard, K Heard, H Jeffery.

For her 28th successive Christmas play, and her eighth production with the Langtree Church Players, St Clair Wallington chose ‘Emmanuel’ by James Forsyth. The singing of the choir added greatly to the enjoyment. The cast, which included newcomers, were John Corby, Steven Fovargue, Janet Sanders, Richard Wallington, Jocelyn Sanders, Tom Jarrett, Nan Fovargue, Andrew Payne-Cook, Betty Jarrett, John Folland, Helen Mills, Susan Mills, Iris Andrews, Stanley Mitchell, Nigel Spear and Jacqueline Ash. The singing of the choir added greatly to the enjoyment. Tom Jarrett was organist. Lighting by Stephen Fovargue was operated by Bill Dyas. Stage manager was David Rowe and prompt, P Soby. A donation is being sent to Shelter.

A capacity audience in Langtree Church Hall enjoyed the traditional carol services and tableaux presented by the children of the County Primary School. Climax was the infants’ Nativity tableaux presented by Mrs D Metherell, a member of the teaching staff. An address of welcome was given by the school captain, Catherine Gerry, and there were piano solos by John Bewes, Andrew Heard and W Soby.

A new set of Lundy stamps is being issued to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the completion of the Lundy North and South lighthouses in 1897. It is the second new issue this year. The new issue, designed by Mr John Dyke, will have the Trinity House ensign in one corner.

image from internet - Graham Land Stamps

The Rev R C Dixon who in his 19½ years as Vicar of Appledore has also been priest-in-charge of Lundy was the recipient of parting gifts when he made his last official visit to the island. At a representative gathering in the tavern he was presented with a painting of the island church of St Helena, a testimonial and a cheque. These were handed to him by the resident agent, Mr Ian Grainger, on behalf of all living on Lundy, coupled with the appreciation of his services and their best wishes for his future. The painting and testimonial were the work of Mr John Dyke, who has charge of the church until a new priest-in-charge arrives.

Little Burrough, Burroughs Farm, Northam, is for sale.

A single building plot in Limers Lane, Northam, is for sale.

Later in the month, it was reported that the plot sold for 'What is probably a record price in the Torridge area - £8,100 - was paid...'

A Northam couple, Mr and Mrs Rex Broughton, had a lucky escape when their car was struck by lightning at the height of a thunderstorm. They were travelling along the main road from Yelland to Instow “when suddenly the whole car appeared incandescent.”

Robert Sydney Stevens of 6 Joney Street, Northam, is fined £20.

Despite bad weather a Christmas Fayre held at the Allardice Hall, Parkham, in aid fo the hall’s funds, was well supported and realised £70.

Entries in a mince pie competition at the December meeting of Parkham WI were afterwards distributed among village old-age pensioners who live alone. Competition winners were Mrs E Lang, Mrs Smart, Mrs E Ford, Mrs E Hicks, Mrs B Heywood. Judges were Mrs Rickard and Mr and Mrs N Parry.

Eighty years old Mr Jimmy Johns, a Torrington pensioner who makes a habit of winning prizes in competitions, carried off the special prize in a draw held among old age pensioners attending a party at Torrington. His prize this time – a see-through nightdress! Mr Johns was among those who attended a farewell party given at her home at 202 New Street, by Mrs C Kempster-Barnes who is moving. Since a social club for pensioners was formed in Torrington two years ago, Mrs Kempster-Barnes has arranged a number of coach trips for them to various places of interest.

The story of Dartington Glass was told by Colonel J N Oliver to the Bideford branch of the Devonshire Association. He was thanked by the chairman, Dr W C McIntosh.

British Rail’s delay in delivering 250 yards of special insulated steel wire from suppliers in Bristol has held up Torrington’s Christmas decorations plan. The cable was despatched from Bristol by recorded passage train delivery but it has still not arrived. Mr Peter Symons, Torrington Borough Surveyor, said that it had been hoped to have the lights installed by this weekend but it now looked as though they would be delayed for another week. The Christmas lights would be better and bigger this year than ever before as the Town Council had bought £180 worth of lights from Exeter and the total cost of the scheme was likely to be £250, not counting labour.

A talent show at Torrington Town Hall was a sell-out and late arrivals had to be turned away. Organising the show was Lise Granados and it was compered by a Torrington borough councillor, Mr Jim Martin.

Cllr C R Sutton told Torrington Town Council that he had had many bitter comments about service at the town post office and Ald G Williams said that someone had had to wait at the counter for half-an-hour. The Council were considering a letter from the acting head postmaster about half-day closing. Generally throughout the country Saturday had been chosen as the most suitable day.

The plan of Torrington Town Council to restore the clock tower and drinking fountain in High Street at an estimated cost of £600 will rank for an 85% grant under the special environmental assistance scheme. But, added the Department of the Environment, the plan to resite the tower at an estimated cost of £750 was considered to be outside the scope of the scheme. It might, however, be possible to obtain a grant from the County Council for what was a highway improvement.

Moving into the new primary school at Winkleigh next term, in addition to local children, will be pupils of two other village schools, those of Ashreigney and Wembworthy which close this week. Mrs Marjorie Dallyn is joining the Devon head teaching supply staff, and her assistant, Mrs Brenda Armstrong, will move to the new Winkleigh school. Mrs Margaret Prini is moving to Westward Ho! and to a part time teaching post at Appledore. Her assistant Mis Muriel Greenslade will be at Winkleigh.

Messrs Kivell and Sons, of Bideford, submitted to public auction the semi-detached freehold property known as Woolsery Parish Room, with the benefit of outline planning consent for conversion to a private dwelling. Bidding commenced at £500, rising to £1,750 at which figure the property was secured by Mr G Copp.

In Woolsery Skittles Club’s annual Christmas turkey competition first prize of a turkey was won by Mr G Wonnacott with a 22 spare. Runner-up was Mr G Vanstone with a spare of 18 who won the chicken. The ladies’ prize was won by Mrs I Souch with a 15 spare. The draw prize, a box of biscuits, was won by D Braund.

December 1997

North Devon sailors are among those bidding a fond farewell to the Royal Yacht Britannia as she sails into retirement. Bob Griffin and Kevin Holmes are among the former royal yachtsmen witnessing her de-commissioning in Portsmouth. They have been looking forward to waling the Britannia’s decks once again and to renewing some of the lasting friendships made on board. Bob is anxious that the ship should not be scuttled. “They just couldn’t. She is a really beautiful ship. She should be maintained and opened up to the public.”

Two orders worth more than £40 million have brought Christmas cheer to Appledore Shipbuilders. The company received a £17 million order to build a fisheries protection vessel for the Irish Department of Defence. This follows closely on a £24 million order for two offshore supply vessels for an English-based subsidiary of the American company Toisa Limited. Appledore Shipbuilders currently has a workforce of 550.

Writing a letter to Santa has won little Gemma Lamble £200 worth of gifts from Woolworths. She popped her letter into Santa’s post box in the store in Bideford and was the lucky winner in the special All I Want For Christmas draw. She received her prize from the store’s assistant manager Jon Adams.

Bideford Rotary Club has set up a hotline to Santa!

School pupils in Bideford are offering a first class Christmas delivery service to their friends. The youngsters of East-the-Water Primary School have set up their own postal service. From their own mini post office they are printing their own stamps, franking their own envelopes, writing cards and letters, sending and delivering them.

Compliments of the season. Santa stopped off in Bideford to tour the town and meet youngsters. Aided by Appledore lifeboat and Bideford Lions’ Club the grand old man came up the river by boat. Then it was off around the town, led by a Samba Band and Morris Dancers. He is pictured with young Robert Mould and his mum Julie.

Escape to Grenville Nursing Home in Meddon Street, Bideford.

Two members of Clovelly Lifeboat are attending a residential course on the Isle of Wight. They are the first to be sent on the Atlantic 21 course in readiness for the lifeboat station’s return to the RNLI fold after running privately for several years.

Answer to success story really does lie in the soil. Fresh, organic produce from North Devon has so impressed top chefs and food writers that it has been given a major national award. Organic growers Vanessa and Dave Ebdon, of the Marshford Nursery at Northam, carried off the Fresh Produce Award at the 1997 Organic Food Awards in London. Among the judges who voted the Ebdons tops was leading chef Raymond Blanc of the Oxfordshire restaurant Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons and BBC Good Food magazine editor Orlando Morrin. The award was presented by broadcaster Jonathan Dimbleby who is president of The Soil Association. And the Company is still going strong - Marshford Organic Foods

A 3 bedroom barn conversion at Saltrens Monkleigh is for sale at £119,950.

Torrington and its more than 50 shops is the place to shop this Christmas. Many offer gift ideas from jewellery and toys to crafts and hobbies. Others sell food and produce. That’s not all. If you feel hungry or thirsty during your Yuletide shopping spree, there are a dozen cafes and eight pubs to choose from! As for the Christmas singing, the Royal School of Church Music is at St Michael’s Parish Church to lead an Advent Carol Service. Torrington’s annual BIG sing in The Square is on, when combined choirs join townsfolk for a carol concert with Torrington Silver Band. Cavaliers and Rotarians are each having at Christmas fair at The Plough Arts Centre.

New pool site has heating thrown in as heat generated at the Dartington Crystal factory could be used to heat the town’s proposed new swimming pool.

A property within Link House, Westward Ho! is for sale. Offers over £40,000 are being invited.

A jellyfish may have forced Torridge District Council to spend more money on its Westward Ho! lifeguard service. One of the creatures stung a bather outside its main patrolled area last summer, causing the woman to suffer dangerous anaphylactic shock. The incident has reinforced calls by district councillors for a second patrolled bathing zone on the beach. Although the two zone idea has been agreed in principle for the past two years lack of money has prevented its implementation. Westward Ho! lifeguards recorded 40 incidents of assistance/sea rescue calls last summer – a 12-times increase on 1996 – and 93 first aid calls, an eight-fold increase.

Christmas Day television viewing on BBC1 and BBC2. On Westcountry, the films were The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992).