March 1924

Torrington-Halwill Railway – when will it be opened?

At the meeting of Torrington Rural Council, the Clerk reported a letter from the Devon and Cornwall Junction (Torrington-Halwill Railway) pressing for £1,200 at once and threatening if they did not get it – it was overdue – they have to ‘do something’ about it. It was stated to be the last instalment and should have been paid in January, and it was decided to pay it now, although Mr Elliott did not see why they should be threatened.

An accident occurred to two men employed on the Halwill-Torrington railway. A cyclist returning from work in the evening lost control of his machine on the hills between Highampton and Sheepwash and knocked down a workman who was walking. The latter suffered from shock, and the cyclist sustained concussion and cuts. Both received medial treatment from Dr Candler.

A grandiose million pound scheme?

Devon’s £1,000,000 Road Scheme.

The Gazette publishes a letter from Mr H C Whitehead, honorary secretary of the RNLI, appealing for people to mark the Centenary of the organisation this month by becoming annual subscribers, the suggested amount being five shillings.

Almost all the elementary schools in the district were closed in the first week of March due to influenza. The Gazette this month reports on many funerals, influenza taking its toll on people of all ages.

The wedding was solemised at Abbotsham church of Mr William Vaggers, son of Mr Walter Vaggers, of Nethercleave, Littleham, and Miss Elsie Andrew, daughter of Mr John Andrew, the Barton, Abbotsham. The Rev Canon Kempe officiated. The bride was becomingly attired …

 

At the funeral of the late Mr George Worth, Canon Kempe officiated, assisted by the Rev E Mallett. There was a large attendance. The immediate mourners were Mr H Worth….

Alverdiscott - In aid of the organ repair fund a successful whist drive and dance, organised by Messrs W Newcombe and T Phear, and the Misses Newcombe, was held in the schoolroom. The prizes were given by Mrs Boyd, Mrs Oak-Rhind, Mrs Blew-Jones and Mr Southcombe, and were won by Mr T Phear, Mr Brace, Miss D Handford, Miss Phear, A E Copp, The Rector, and A W Fedrick.

A very pretty wedding was solemnised at Alwington Wesleyan Church between Miss Alice Trewin, only daughter of Mr and Mrs T Trewin of High Park, and Mr Wiliam Goaman, only son of Mr Richard Goaman, of Waytown, Parkham. The church was prettily decorated…

A reception was held at High Park and later in the day, the happy couple left for Dawlish.

There was considerable stir at Appledore and, in fact all along the hillsides to Bonehill when the old wooden line-of-battle ship, HM Empress, formerly HM Revenge, arrived safely in the custody of two tugs, after coming through an adventurous voyage, in the charge of Captain Richard Hooper, master mariner. On Sunday morning the friendly shelter of Hartland Point was reached, where boat and tugs awaited the afternoon’s tide for taking the Bar….

The public will be given free access to this famous craft, at a fee of 6d (children 3d) for the benefit of Bideford Hospital, but no responsibility is taken for accidents.

Stanley Bennett who bought 5 One-end Street, Appledore, is unable to get in and would like George Cawsey, the tenant, to vacate it.

The remains of Mr William Penhorwood Shutt, shipwright, of Richmond-terrace, Appledore, were laid to rest. Aged 75 he was one of the fast diminishing number of shipwrights, who belonged to the earlier type, who were solely brought up to work in wood alone, and whose skill in the present day can be seen in the floating bulwarks of our earlier Navy, now fast being broken up. He served his time at Mr Clibbett’s yard and at the early age of 21 entered HM Dockyard at Sheerness, transferring to Chatham, where he followed his trade till 1887, when he returned to Appledore and worked for some time under Mr Westacott…

Funerals at Appledore – Mr William Bowden, aged 78. In his earlier career Mr Bowden had been a deep-water sailor, and had sailed out of London in the Hudson Bay Company ship, trading to Vancouver, and had also been in the late Mr William Yeo’s employ, bringing the ships home from Charlottetown in Prince Edward Island, to Appledore, where they were completed. He was wrecked in the schooner Excell which grounded on the Goodwin Sands. Mrs Sarah Ann Jewell, aged 74, was laid to rest in St Mary’s Churchyard, the Vicar, Rev Hugh C A S Muller, officiating. The Vicar mentioned that Mrs Jewell was the last of the Hancocks, a fine race of seamen, who had owned property in Appledore for three generations, and her father and brother, like many others, had met their deaths at sea, but their name would be permanently handed down in the site known as Hancock’s Slip. The late Mr Braunton – Mr James Braunton suddenly collapsed after a week’s illness of influenza. He had for over forty years been the head man on Mr John Cock’s farm and a was a most invaluable farm servant. He will be laid to rest at Northam, where his wife is buried. Mr William Payne, retired mariner, was laid to rest. The Vicar, Rev Hugh C A S Muller, who officiated, in a few words referred to the early travels of the late Mr Payne, pointing out how he had sailed out of Weymouth for many years, and also how he patiently borne his distressing illness, never complaining but always enduring with a brave spirit.

Infant children were laid to rest at Appledore.

In a follow up to one of last month’s stories, Bideford Town Council have held discussions about the safety of drivers and pedestrians during the road works on the bridge. It is reported that insurers for the lorry which crashed into the river are holding the Council responsible for the damage. So far there has been no update on the condition of the driver, Mr Cloke

The death took place at his residence, Glencoe, Bideford, after a brief illness, of Mr Fred Panter, and much sympathy is felt with the family in their sad and unexpected bereavement. Mr Panter, who in his calling as a produce dealer was a well-known figure in Bideford market, had been a hard-working member of Bideford Wesleyan Church, and acted as sidesman for over 20 years. The funeral took place with Rev a W Bunnett, MA, officiating. Sincere sympathy is expressed with the bereaved family and relatives in the great loss they have sustained by the death of Mrs Ethel Greenslade, wife of Mr F W Greenslade, of 53 Lime Grove, Bideford. Mrs Greenslade, who was much beloved and held in high esteem by a large circle of friends, passed away at the early age of 36, after a very brief illness. She leaves one child.

A Bideford schoolboy, John Lee, of 4 Railway Cottages, Torrington Street, East-the-Water, was knocked down by a motor car and was taken to Bideford Hospital having sustained a fractured left arm, cuts to the forehead and knees and bruises on his legs. He is now progressing as well as can be expected, although he will probably have to remain in hospital for some short while yet.

Bideford ketch, Francis Beddoe, who belongs to Mr A Galsworthy of Appledore, is lost on Pendine Sands, Carmarthen Bay, Wales. 

Household furniture from The Orchard, Orchard Hill, Bideford, for sale by auction.

William Glover, of Lyndale House, Bideford, was fined 3s for riding a bicycle without a light after regular time.

Furnishings from Meadowview, Clovelly Road, Bideford, for sale.

A very pretty wedding was solemnised at the Bideford United Methodist Church, when Miss Daisy Fulford, only daughter of Alderman J U Fulford and Mrs Fulford, of Salterns, entered into the bonds of holy matrimony with Mr William John Bellew. The bridegroom is the third son of Mr T Bellew (a member of Bideford Rural Council and Board of Guardians) and Mrs Bellew, of Puse-hill Farm, Abbotsham.

After the service a move was made to Salterns, where a real old-fashioned wedding breakfast was held in the barn which was decorated with hangings and draperies, and illuminated by groups of twinkling fairy lights. The newlywed couple motored to Bournemouth and London where their honeymoon is being spent. On returning Mr and Mrs John Bellew will reside at Gammaton Farm. 

Buy your Swallow raincoat from Metherell's in Bideford.

At Bradworthy, the epidemic of influenza has not yet abated. However, in spite of the epidemic local rivalries continue – skittles and draughts competitions at Bradworthy were fiercely contested. The home team lost the draughts event to Welcome 31-18. However, Bradworthy took the Torridge & District Skittle Council shield, with Buckland Brewer a close second.

A very successful bachelors’ tea and social was held in the Temperance Hall, Bradworthy, organised by the young men associated with the United Methodist Church. Afterwards an enjoyable evening was spent. A goodly sum was realised and given to the Women’s Working League.

Many in Bradworthy were grieved at the receipt of the news of the decease, almost suddenly, of Mrs Samuel John Ashton, formerly of Lake, but recently resident at Bideford. Whilst at Bradworthy she endeared herself to all by her Christian kindness and hospitality. Mrs Gilbert of the Square, who had been a great sufferer, passed away after a long illness, borne with patience and without complaining.

Fancy dress at Bucks Mills. The dancers began arriving at 7.30 and it soon became evident that the display of costumes would be very varied and effective. Dancing began soon after 8 o’clock and later on those in fancy dress paraded in three classes – ladies, gentlemen and children. The prizes were awarded as follows: ‘The Balloon Girl’ Miss Gertrude French; ‘The Clown’ Mr Fred Johns, and ‘Charlie Chaplin’ Mr Stanley Martin. ‘Rainbow’ Margaret Heywood, and ‘Sailorman’ Grenville Braund.

 

In consequence of the increasing traffic, a Royal Automobile Association patrol man is to be stationed at Clovelly Cross during the summer months.

The funeral of Mrs Annie Burnard, who passed away at the age of 82 years, took place at All Saints’ Church, Clovelly, amid many manifestations of sympathy and respect. The Rev T L V Simkin officiated and there was a large congregation…

Quite recently the United Methodist Church, Frithelstock, was presented with a beautiful copy of the Scriptures inscribed ‘For the United Methodist Church, Frithelstock, December, 1923’. It was forwarded by carrier to the Steward, Mr William Ashton, of Myrtle Cottage, with no indication of the sender. Evidently the donor is a lover of the Church.

Mr Ernest Hill officiated at the marriage in the United Methodist Church, of Mr Ernest Prouse to Miss Dorothy J Pomeroy of Netherton. Owing to the illness of her father, the bride was given away by her young brother, Mr Ernest Pomeroy. Miss Louise Prouse was her attendant, and Mr T Prouse acted as ‘best man’. Mr Frank Christmas played the wedding music. A reception was held at Netherton. The presents were very numerous.

Influenza is epidemic in Hartland. The churches and chapels were very badly attended in consequence.

The French Government has arranged to exhume and repatriate all their sailors and soldiers who lie in foreign lands. In accordance with this decision the body of Henri Auguste Guyon (a sailor) was removed from Hartland churchyard on February 28th. 

The funeral has taken place at Stoke, Hartland, of John Orchard. Mr Orchard, who was 62, was a member of a well-known and respected local Gypsy family. Following his death from influenza, thirty six local men carried his coffin the four miles from the moor to the churchyard for burial. At Hartland, the funeral of little Ivy Johns took place with Pastor Hill officiating. The vicar officiated and gave a short address and Miss Pillman presided at the organ. Pastor Hill officiated at Mrs Cloke’s funeral. 

Hartland road improvement scheme.

 

At Instow, Mr Nancekivell’s tender is accepted for repairing seats on Sand Step Hill, and Mr H Miles will resign.

Many old friends will learn with regret of the death of Miss Maginnis, who died in Ireland at an advanced age. She was at the Saunton Hotel for many years, and was latterly stewardess at the Sailing Club at Instow. The flag at the Club was flown at half mast shen the regretted news of Miss Maginnis’s death was received.

At the Marine Hotel, Instow, a six-a-side table tennis match was played between teams representing Barnstaple and Bideford, with Bideford winning. Afterwards Mr Ed King, the host, entertained the company to an excellent supper, which was followed by a musical programme.

The funeral of the late Mr Thomas Parkin who died at Cardiff, at the age of 59, took place. The deceased was a carpenter and joiner and was a native of Instow. He leaves a widow, five sons and five daughters.

Langtree village was en fete on the occasion of the wedding of Mr Arthur Horn and Miss Emma Moore, daughter of the late Mr John and Mrs Moore, of East Browns. Both the bride and bridegroom are great favourites with all their acquaintances, being well known in music circles. The ceremony took place at the UM Chapel, Langtree with the Rev H E Reed officiating, assisted by Rev P Luxton. The bride looked charming….

At a special meeting of Langtree Parish Council, Mr Hack proposed, Mr Short seconded, that the Council accept with regret the resignation of Mr S J Sanders as Clerk to the Council and Assistant Overseer, an office he had filled for 25 years. the Chairman expressed sorrow at losing such an efficient officer.

Mr Huxtable, of Birch-hill Farm has had the misfortune to lose a valuable cow. Mrs R Huxtable of Langtree is the recipient of donations on behalf of the trustees of the UM Chapel. Earlier in the month it was reported that the Chapel received a handsome sum from Mr Hobbs, of America. 

Langtree’s only inn, the Green Dragon, was completely destroyed by fire. The inn was one of the houses controlled by Messrs S W Arnold and Sons, brewers, of Taunton, which firm leases the property from the Rolle Estate, and it was tenanted by Mr Richard Vanstone, who also follows the occupation of carpenter, and his wife. The outbreak was discovered by Mr Crocker of Little Torrington at 2.30pm. He gave the alarm to Mr Vanstone and together with the help of a willing muster of neighbours preliminary precautions were taken and help of the fire brigade summoned. Police-Sergeant Snell and PC Hawkins hurried to the village and assisted in preventing the spread of the fire. Torrington Brigade were rallied under Mr Leat, and they reached the scene of the fire with their hand-pump and hose, drawn by three horses, by 3.15pm. The Bideford Brigade had been summoned at the same time through the Torrington Post Office, and arrived with their steam engine coving a distance of 9 miles (five miles farther than from Torrington to Langtree) shortly afterwards.

The children attending Littleham Council School were examined in religious knowledge by the Inspector, Mr H H Hawkins, and the following report has just been received…

We regret to announce the death of Mrs Bowdidge, Moor Cottages, Littleham, who passed away peacefully at the age of 71. She was the widow of the late Mr W H Bowdidge and the youngest daughter of the late Mr James Crealock. The deceased had resided at Littleham all her life with the exception of a few years spent in Birmingham. She was of a most genial and affectionate disposition and although not being blessed with a robust constitution, yet all affliction was borne with much Christian fortitude.

 

Lundy - A very successful dance was held at the Assembly Rooms, the occasion being the celebration of the twenty-first birthday of Mrs C Ottley; also to commemorate St Patrick’s Day in honour, as a compliment to Mr and Mrs Barter. Previous to the dancing, Mr Sleep, chief officer of Lloyds Signal Station, made a brief speech, thanking Miss Sage, the popular hostess of the Manor Hotel for her kindness in granting the use of the hall, and expressed the hope that the social life of the Island would continue to improve. Mr Barter, chief signalman of Lloyds, who carried out the duties of MC in a pleasing manner, also spoke.

The Rev J A S Castlehow, assistant priest at Northam, met with a serious accident whilst cycling on Exmoor. His machine skidded in the snow, and the rider was thrown violently over a small bridge and dropped into the brook eight feet below. He was conveyed to Challocombe Rectory and afterwards removed to his home. All will wish him a speedy recovery, but it will be some little time before he will be able to resume his duties.

Properties in Northam for sale by auction – The Kings Head; Alexandra House; two cottages in Tower Street in the occupation of Messrs Balsdon and Colwill; 6 cottages in Honey Street in the occupation of Messrs Glover, Mrs Glover, Messrs Keen, Pound and Miss Curtis.

There was a nasty accident in Barnstaple Square when a motor car driven by Major-General Sir R Stewart, of Bidna, Northam, was in collision with a bicycle ridden by Mr William J Body, a mason, of Swimbridge.

Northam Men’s Bible Class gave a very effective rendering of the musical service ‘Khama’ in the Congregational Church. Over forty members took part, and the male chorus thus provided was heard to advantage in the choral marches – the soloists were Messrs G Kelly, W Pound, B Hancock, J Beara, E and W Littlejohns, G Colwill and W Pickard. Mr Henry Littlejohns being the organist.

The funeral took place at Northam Churchyard of the late Mr Christopher Joseph Kilduff, who died at Hyde Barton, Northam, from pneumonia following influenza. The deceased was the faithful friend and servant of Mrs Nixon for 24 years. There were a number present to pay the last tribute of respect. The funeral of the late Mrs Emma Hearn, the wife of Mr John Hearn, of Higher Castle Street, Northam, took place, there being a large attendance to pay the last tribute of respect.

At Parkham, Miss Jewell, a domestic servant at Flaxmans, fell in the farmyard and broke the bone of her elbow. Despite her injuries she pluckily milked three cows with one hand after the accident.

The death has taken place at Broom Hill Cottage, Parkham, of Mr W Dean. Deceased was gardener at the Rectory for a good many years, and although having rheumatism, he trudged from his cottage to the Rectory for gardening purposes. He was also a ringer until compelled to give it up. He leaves a widow and grown-up family to mourn their loss. By his death another record of longevity is broken for this parish. Mr and Mrs Dean having been married for nearly 60 years.

Quite a gloom was cast over the Shebbear parish when it became known that Mrs Bessie Bright, wife of Mr Charles Bright, of Moortown, had passed away at the age of 48. She was of a bright and cheerful disposition, brave and patient in suffering, a devoted wife, loving mother, kind neighbour, and true friend. Much sympathy is felt for Mr Bright, and the three children in their sad bereavement.

The wedding of Miss Beatrice Mary Leach, youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs W J Leach of South View House, Shebbear, to Mr Reginald Arnold, Petersmarland, was solemnised at the United Methodist Church at Lake by the Rev H E Reed, Circuit Minister.

After a few weeks’ illness, Ex-Sergt John Bennett, a native of Torrington, passed away. Deceased served 12 years with the 1st Devons in India and retired on a pension. He rejoined the same regiment and served five years in France during the late war. He had since been appointed foreman under the Devon County Council at the Barnstaple Depot of Quarry men. Five of his comrades from Barnstaple attended the funeral….

Owing to the influenza epidemic half the inmates of Torrington Poor-Law Institution have been laid up, and Church services were suspended for two Sundays.

At the Torrington Borough Police Court Mary Mules again failed to put in an appearance to answer to a summons adjourned from the previous court for allowing the chimney of her house to be on fire. She was brought to the court by the police in a crying state and fined 3s 6d. James Pettyjohns for a similar offence was also fined 3s 6d.

At Torrington Town Council meeting, in regard to the Council’s decision at the last meeting to whiten the dial of the Fountain Clock, which now had a black face, the Town Clerk, Mr F A Hodgkinson, reported having communicated with two local clockmakers, but neither was anxious to undertake it. Mr H Vincent, who raised the question at the previous meeting, said with a black face the clock was hopeless, and he moved they get a quotation. Seconded by Mr C Popham.

Looking forward to the spring, Torrington Chamber of Commerce have decided to revive the old May Fair Day. Among the suggested attractions are a clay pigeon shoot, skittles match, old English dancing and a bowling tournament in fancy dress. The Fair grounds will have side-shows and amusements, and all shopkeepers have been asked to make attractive displays. The day will end with a grand carnival.

A very pretty wedding was solemnised at the St Michael’s Parish Church, Torrington, the Rev Preb F Emlyn Jones officiating. The contracting parties were Cyril Stanley Vodden, of Well Street, Torrington, and Miss Florence Curtis, youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs Thomas Curtis, New Street, Torrington. Bridesmaids were Miss Edith Curtis and Miss Edith Parkhouse. Mr Fred Vodden discharged the duties of groomsman. Both being so widely known and highly respected, they were the recipients of upwards to 100 useful and costly presents. The happy couple left by train for Uppingham, near Leicester, where the honeymoon will be spent. As the train steamed out from the station detonators were fired and the bridegroom’s railway comrades gave them a hearty send off.

The usually quiescent village of Weare Gifford, noted for its Hall and its strawberry teas, was the scene of considerable excitement on the occasion of an outbreak of fire which did considerable damage at the Riversdale Tea Room and dairy farm, the home of Mr and Mrs Titus Moore. Mr Moore walked round the premises at 10.30pm, and half an hour later, Sergt Major Hammersley, retired, who lives in a house the other side of the road, made his customary look round and noticed nothing amiss. About an hour later, Mrs Moore was awakened by a loud knocking (subsequently found was caused by the frantic efforts of the horse, valued at £30) and the reflection of flames was seen in the bedroom window. Their little girl roused Mr Charles Jeffery together with Mr and Mrs Gilbert. As well as the stable, the tea rooms and other farm buildings near the dwelling house were well alight. Neighbours Chas Jeffery and Mr & Mrs Gilbert were soon on the scene and set about saving the main house and the horses. The fire brigade from Torrington arrived and used water from the mill leat to feed the manual engine. The fire was extinguished by 5am. Sadly one horse was lost but the cattle, ducks and hens were outside and survived, as did the house. All the contents of the tea room were destroyed, along with a piano belonging to the village which had been stored there until a village hall could be built.

The Westward Ho! Football Club had their annual dinner at the Pebble Ridge Hotel. After an excellent repast, to which 33 sat down, and which was supplied Host Hambly, a smoking concert took place – Messrs G Kelly, E Littlejohns, Hutchings, Mitchell, Metherall, R Newcombe, Lawson and Paddon, contributing to the harmony. A number of toasts were proposed and responded to by the following: Messrs Wilkey, E Taylor, G Hutchings, E Littlejohns and W Metherall.

An excellent concert was given in the Council School, £9 16s 6d being raised for Church funds. Mr Robert Harper unfortunately, through illness, could not appear but he had very kindly got together a contingent from Bideford, and Mr Jenkins and Mr Stevens had most generously provided the transport. This is not the first time Bideford has helped the Church in Woolsery.

Mr Frederick William Ridd, a butcher, of Woolsery is involved in some excitement in High-street, Bideford.

March 1974

A second outbreak of influenza has hit schools and, to a lesser extent, industry in the area. The wave is passing, but at its peak around 70 girls from Bideford Edgehill College as well as staff members were ill. In the case of boarders they overflowed from the sick bay and one of the houses had to be given up to them. To a lesser extent girls and staff were affected at Stella Maris and at other schools more children and staff than usual are away. The effect has not been so marked in industry, possibly because with a three-day week workers have tended to struggle on.

Trustees who are proposing to spend an estimated £1,200 on the installation of oil-fired central heating at the almshouses at Alwington told Bideford Rural Council that oil filled electric radiators previously provided were not used because of high running costs. New the houses were heated only by open coal fires in the living rooms. But the council’s public health and housing committee through central heating would prove very expensive for the aged tenants and the council are to tell the trustees that in their view it would be no less costly to run that the radiators.

Silver candelabra were presented to the Rev Gwynne H Watkey and Mrs Watkeys at a celebration to mark Mr Watkey’s 25th anniversary as minister of Appledore and Westward Ho! Baptist churches. They were handed to them by Mr Alan Smith on behalf of the congregation of both churches.

Appledore Shark Angling Club is making great strides to put North Devon on the map. Formed at the end of 1971, the club already has 11 members who caught fish over 75lb to qualify for the Shark Angling Club of Great Britain by the end of their first season’s fishing. During that first year, chartering the Silver Puff, members made 24 sorties to various parts of Bideford Bay. Members include Mr Ernie ‘Bosun’ Carter, Mrs Paula Summers, Mr D Cockram and Comm R Rowe.

Appledore Town Silver Band’s ‘dial-a-band’ scheme has again attracted the attention of the BBC – this time in a programme to be seen in colour within the next fortnight on the early evening ‘Nationwide’ programme. In January they were the subject of a film report on BBC West.

The phrase family tree took on a very real meaning at St Mary’s Church, Appledore, when 24 trees were planted in the churchyard. The trees were supplied by Devon County Council, but at the suggestion of the Vicar, the Rev Donald Peyton Jones, local families not only planted them but undertook to be responsible for their maintenance for all time. Newly married couples and others who plan to get married at Appledore this year were among those who planted trees, among parents who took the opportunity to mark the baptism of their children were Mr and Mrs Roger Day, of Irsha Street, who infant son was baptised earlier that same day.

As part of their everyday work the men in this picture have between them driven for at least 44 weeks a year for a total of 95 years without having had an accident. And that doesn’t include the policeman! Police Superintendent B J Phillips called at the offices of the South Western Electricity Board at Bideford to present awards to board employees. One of the board’s senior electricians, Mr R J Kelly of Clovelly, received a bar to add to his medal. Others to receive the awards were – H King, R A Short, R Colwill, M Schiller, G B John, P G Shackson, H Eastman, L C Davey, K W Foley, A Mugford, J H Mayne, J Sluman, G Vickery, J Vickery, D B Peacham and E Tanton. The awards are in respect of driving up to end of 1972.

Bideford Bridge Townswomen’s Guild celebrated their 25th anniversary with a dinner at the Royal Hotel. Membership of the Bridge Guild exceeds 80. The president, Mrs F Jewell, is seen cutting the celebration cake, accompanied by Mrs R Harding, Mrs F Smyth, Mrs A Blatchford, Mrs Trigger and Mrs Scott.

Bideford’s oldest resident, Miss Harriett Diamond, of Elm Grove, is 104. ‘Auntie Mig’ as she is known to her friends, is confined to bed but continues to be alert and cheerful and takes a keen interest in the news. She lives with her niece, Mrs G Cunningham, who has looked after Miss Diamond and her late sister, Mrs E Bradford, who reached the age of 102, for many years. 

Bideford’s oldest postman, Mr Arthur Rowe, hung up his bag. Only five months short of his 75th birthday he said: “I’m looking forward to a long retirement.” Mr Rowe, of Elmdale Road, did not start his post office career until he was 65, and that was after retiring from over 40 years’ service with the Royal Blue and Southern National as a driver.

Sisters Shirley and Lindsay Tucker and their cousins Simon, Matthew and Clare Langdon brought some of their four-legged friends together for this picture taken at Cadds Down Farm, Bideford, the home of Mr and Mrs T P Tucker. Easily the senior member of the group is Trixie the pony, seen here with her young companion Bobby. Next in order of seniority comes 14 year old collie Rexo.

A remarkable triple coincidence marked the last baptism by Preb T Derwent Davies as Rector of Bideford. The baptism at St Peter’s Church, East-the-Water, was that of baby Lee Anthony Davis, son of Mr and Mrs Davis, Elm Grove, Bideford. The godfather, Mr David Johnstone was the first baby Preb Davies baptised as a curate in Bideford in 1945 – and David’s brother Paul was the first he baptised when he became Rector here in 1958. Preb Davies was at David’s confirmation and also officiated at his wedding. David and Paul are the sons of Mrs E Johnstone and the late Mr W H R Johnstone, of The Anchorage, Slade, Northdown Road, Bideford.

Volunteers were kept busy making masses of pancakes for Bideford Buccaneers’ pancake races held on the Quay on Shrove Tuesday. There were so many entries in the children’s classes that two heats had to be run in the boys’ section. The opening race, for women, was won by Mrs Smale from a field of 11. Stuart Humphries triumphed in the boys’ section and Carol Keen won the girls’ event. Winner of the men’s race was Mr Malcolm Hook.

There was absolutely no truth in the rumour that they were being taken over by Fine Fare, a spokesman of the Ford and Lock chain of stores told the Gazette. “We have heard the same rumour: it seems to be a regular thing,” he added. Ford and Lock intended to carry on with their rapid expansion. In 14 years they had built up to 28 outlets with two more to open this year.

Help to buy boats for Bideford Amateur Athletic Club and Bideford Amateur Rowing Club.

Major expansion plans announced by Bideford Toy Works Ltd include the provision of a new factory which will provide jobs for up to 300. It is understood that 12 different sites are being considered, some outside the area. But it was stressed that the is still room for expansion at the existing Bideford factory.

Members of the Stella Maris school team which won first place in the junior section of the Bideford schools’ road safety quiz admire their trophy.

Jackie Turner, David Adams, David Pope, Lynn Williams and Christopher Sherborne

The Rev Charles Sutton, who has been instituted as Vicar of Bradworthy, served the Anglican church in Canada for 14 years in the early part of his ministry and during the war was a chaplain with the Royal Canadian Air Force. A bachelor, he is accompanied by his sister, Miss Hilda Sutton, who has been his companion and housekeeper since he took Holy Orders. She, too, served in the RCAF – as an accountant. The benefice has been vacant for nearly three years since the retirement of the Rev H T Lingham Lees.

Bideford Rural District Council’s housing schemes are being held up because of lack of materials and bad weather. Members were told that work on the site at Buckland Brewer was proceeding very slowly and that a start on the site at Woolsery had been delayed for a month.

Former pupils were bearers at the funeral at Bucks Cross of Mrs Elsie Thomas, of St Anne’s Cottage, Bucks Mills, former headmistress of Parkham and Bucks Mills schools. She was a member of Bideford Camera Club and a collector for the Hospital Aid Society.

The first clue into the mysterious jet from RAF Chivenor may have been uncovered at Bucks Mills.

Mr C Braund, of The Quay, Clovelly, says “Think of the donkeys!”

More than half the money paid out in rent rebates to private tenants by Bideford Rural District Council went to those at Clovelly, the clerk Mr A J Blatchford, told council members. The 16 or 17 private tenants at Clovelly received about £30 a week between them.

In light of their promise to grant £150 and Hartland Parish Council’s decision to give £80 towards the provision of tennis courts at Hartland, Bideford Rural District Council are hoping that the Education Authority will be prepared to make a full grant of £710.

Ben Travers’ farce “Rookery Nook” chosen this year by Hartland Drama Group provided enjoyment for an audience of over 200 in its 2-night showing. Those taking part were Mrs Antoinette Moat, Mrs Jon Perrin, Mr Rupert Summers, Mr Micky Chapman-Pincher, Mr Kevin Ogden, Miss Gussie Greenlees, Mr Steve Howlett, Mr John Scott, Mrs Heather Scott, Mrs Alice Clark, Mrs Janet Summers. Producer was Mr Daniel Newton.

Because of indications that there was ‘considerable weight of opinion’ against its provisions, Bideford Rural District Council have agreed to withdraw an Order for a diversion of a public footpath at Blagdon Farm, Hartland. A complaint by a neighbouring farmer that the County Council had carried out work on another footpath without notifying him was referred to the County Council.

Aircraftman Andrew Lance Dipper of View Close, Instow, was awarded a Certificate of Merit as best all round recruit of his flight on graduation.

Interest at the February meeting of the North Devon Numismatic Society was centred on a Charles I shilling dated 1645 and said to have been minted on Lundy Island. Despite intensive research members could establish no definite proof that a mint ever existed on Lundy although Thomas Bushell, who was in charge of the island during the Civil War had mints elsewhere and was also in charge of the silver mines at Combe Martin. It was felt that any coins attributed to Lundy had almost been minted at Barnstaple.

Tax changes Lundy life.

A swimming pool is to be restored to Northam Urban Council’s overall plan for the development of Burrough Farm.

Some 200 entries were received for a schools road safety arts and crafts competition at Northam. Gift vouchers were presented during an assembly at St Margaret’s School, Northam, and plaques to Northam Methodist Church team which won the recent junior quiz. Prizes were awarded to: Edwin Astbury, Garry Wallace, Hazel Woodland, Stephen Morris, Jonathon Charles, Louise Andrews, Richard Moulton, Lindsay Warmington, Sally Dawson, Nicola Sled, Hayley Holman, Petra Hicks, Richard Boon, Steven Barter, Robert Goldsworthy, Jessica Rose, Fiona Jenn and Mark Elston.

Captain Henry Oswald Wilkinson, of Bay View Road, Northam, who died at the age of 82, was a retired Marine Superintendent who was with Houlder Bros and Co Ltd, Buenos Aires. He was president of Northam and Westward Ho! Conservative Association, a member of Appledore Lifeboat Committee, and of Bideford Lodge of Benevolence of Freemasons. The Rev D Pine officiated at the funeral service.

Some of the Westcountry’s leading players competed in an invitation competition at the Lenwood Squash Club. Winner of the Robin Gale cup was Nigel Foulkes, the Devon No. 3 player. In the final he defeated Clive Stiff in a hard fought match. Semi-finalists were former Cornish county champion Nick Barrington and Devon county player George Ackland. Best performance by a local player was by teacher Simon Lloyd. A plate competition was won by Tim Langdon of Bideford after a five game final with Andrew Joynson.

In the photograph are: David Allsop, Brian French, E Tudor, T Langdon, N Foulkes, D Pike, C Stiff, C Stockman, P Cross, K Spencer and M King

‘Showing the flag’ had a special significance when the top picture reproduced here was taken at Parkham. Members of the newly-formed Parkham 1st cubs-scouts pack, who had just been invested, are seen examining the flag of a pack of wolf cubs, as they were then known, that flourished in the village around 30 years ago. The flag was made by the grandmother of one of the helpers with the new pack, Mrs Alice Hockin. It was a nostalgic occasion for Mr Grenville Glover, for he was a member of the wolf cubs. His son, Stephen, is one of the new pack. 

Pack members seen in the modern picture are Roger Honey, Stephen Glover, Paul Wilks, Philip Priest, Richard Heywood, Richard Marsden, Kevin Glover, Arthur Griffin, Terry Souch and Andrew Souch

What is believed to be the largest pair of gloves ever made by a local firm has been supplied by Sudbury’s Gloves Ltd to the King of Tonga, in the South Pacific. Made in grey nylon fabric for use on formal occasions, they measured six inches across the palm. HM King Taufa’abau the Fourth of Tonga is an imposing figure, and succeeded his mother, the late Queen Salote. Sudbury’s, who have factories at Bideford, Appledore and Torrington, also have the distinction of supplying the nylon fabric gloves included in the complete set of gloves annually presented to the Lady Mayoress of London by the Worshipful Company of Glovers. These are made by Mrs Cynthia Dymond, of Lime Grove, Bideford, who is chief instructor to newcomers joining the firm.

After 25 years’ service as Borough Beadle of Torrington, Mr Jack Avery has resigned. He is a native of East-the-Water, Bideford, and has two sisters – Miss May Avery of Honestone Street, and Mrs Ivy Glover, of Copps Close. He and his wife, Phyllis, a daughter of the late Mr George Yeo who was Mayor of Torrington, have two daughters and a son, all married.

Work on Torrington’s swimming pool scheme began this week. Announcing this, the surveyor, Mr Peter Symons, said the overall cost was £76,829. The pool is to be built on part of the cattle market site, near other sports facilities and convenient to the centre of the town. 

Figures too low for crossing at New Street, Torrington.

As part of their careers course, 38 boys from Torrington County Secondary School spent a day with the Army at Wyvern Barracks, Exeter. They all negotiated the assault course and fired self-loading rifles and machine guns. The visit enabled the boys to have a close look at conditions in the Junior Leaders Regiment and four of the boys afterwards said it had confirmed their choice of a service career. Mr M Vanderpant, head of the school’s careers department, said that this was one of a series of visits and in the future pupils would be travelling to the Royal Navy training centre at Raleigh, Plymouth, the Amphibious Experimental Establishment at Instow, Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd and Sussman’s of Barnstaple.

Westward Ho! WI celebrated its 26th birthday by planting a tree in the grounds of The Chalet old people’s home. The president, Mrs L Pope, presented a variegated holly, which was accepted by Mrs M Congdon.

A plan to convert the station hall at Westward Ho! into a beer garden style public house was approved by Northam Council – but only on the vote of the chairman, Mr John Smith. The outline planning application by Mr Eric Hart had originally been recommended for refusal but the County Council disagreed. The building was at present vacant, had approved planning use as a discotheque. Mrs E M Hilder said she felt very strongly that the council had ‘missed the boat’ by not acquiring this property. She added: “It would have been ideal for us, providing a much-needed shelter which we have wanted in Westward Ho! for years and years.”

A sea outfall nearly three and a third miles long from Westward Ho! beach would be needed for the Bideford-Northam joint sewerage scheme to meet the demands of the Department of Environment inspector who conducted a public inquiry into the project. This was stated in a report on hydrographic investigations. The report added that the dilution from the outfall would be preferable to treating the sewage to Royal Commission standards in a shore-based treatment works and discharging the effluent to the low water mark.

Movable loos for Westward Ho!

Efforts to find the owner of land at the rear of Golden Bay garages at Westward Ho! which Northam Urban Council want to use, have proved unsuccessful. The council are to make a compulsory order if the owner is not found.

A £1 million scheme to erect what were described as ‘high rise’ flats on the site of The Pines, Atlantic Way, Westward Ho! has been vetoed by Northam Urban Council. They agreed to recommend for refusal a planning application by Geocrest Properties who want to build blocks of two and three bedroomed flats. The housing committee told the council “Blocks of flats of this magnitude are not considered to be in keeping with the area in general.”

No mention of Winkleigh on signposts.

The funeral has taken place at Woolsery Parish Church of Mrs Ada Johns, of Hill Croft, Woolsery, aged 82 years. She was the wife of the late Mr Albert Johns, formerly of Stitworthy Farm. The bearers were Messrs G Andrew, H Andrew, M Andrew, M Heywood, R Heywood and W Heywood, nephews.

‘Mad people’ who drive through the village of Woolsery at 50mph have been criticised at a parish council meeting. “Most people drive with care and consideration, but a number of these chaps, whose time is money, drive like maniacs and it is they and the summer visitors who are the menace, “ said Mr John Downes.

March 1999

The French may be world soccer champions but a North Devon pub has been causing them blushes in their own traditional game of boule, or pétanque. The Pig-on-the-Hill at Abbotsham not only has its own pétanque club with one of this country’s best pétanque terrains (pitches) but has yet to be beaten in matches against French opposition home or away! “The game originated with the use of cannon balls” said club chairman Chris Preston-Smith.

Semi-detached cottage at Abbotsham for sale.

Appledore is planning a giant photograph of all its villagers, a colourful new village sign, and a mermaid of its very own! They are some of the ideas in prospect for the estuary village’s second arts festival planned for the beginning of June. Last year’s popular summer event featuring a mix of professional, amateur and community initiatives and events captured the imagination and has secured a second year of funding. In keeping with it maritime history, water will feature large in the proceedings.

Appledore Letting Agency requires an ‘experienced part time PA’.

Appledore pub landlords Grahame Stone and Barry Lewis are to be ‘gunged’ to raise cash for Comic Relief. The neighbouring Beaver Inn and Royal George pubs have a tradition of joining forces for charity fund raising. Beaver chef Ashley Jewell will be having a red dyed Mohican haircut and there will be a charity auction including a gallon of whisky and a valuable golf print with miniature golf clubs.

It may not be the Amazon, but a charity trip down the River Torridge being planned promises to be quite a journey. Fellow surfing and canoeing enthusiasts Simon May of Appledore, Andrew Short of Bideford, Andrew Freeman and Greg Ford of Westward Ho! will enter the river at Taddiport and travel 10 miles downstream to Appledore. Their transport will be two large inflated tyres on loan from Skern Lodge. The foursome have planned their trip as a contribution to Comic Relief.

A well known Bideford head of hair was given the chop for the first time in local memory. Robert Bennett of Clifton Street celebrated his 50th birthday by creating a new image and raising a tidy sum for children’s charities. Even Robert himself couldn’t remember the last time his ‘Viking style’ hair had been cut. After a first snip by young Claire Cussell other customers at the Blacksmiths Arms were invited to join in. A final shave by John Hancock competed the transformation.

Shepherd Graeme Sims of Bideford is claiming a world record for working seven sheepdogs at once as part of a team all wearing dog collars including him! Graeme is an ordained priest as well as being resident shepherd at the Milky Way Adventure Park near Clovelly. His seven-dog feat is so far unchallenged. And that’s a problem, because to publish a world record and get into the Guiness Book there has to be a challenger!

Narrow Mill Street has been the hub of Bideford life for centuries. It is mentioned in documents dating back to the first half of the 14th century, when the presence of a mill would have made it particularly important. The mill was probably a tidal mill. Today Mill Street remains at the centre of town activity with a profusion of more than 50 shops and commercial enterprises. The traditional butcher, baker and candlestick maker can all be found along its length.

Large Belgian chocolate eggs will help two North Devon charities to celebrate Easter. The eggs were presented by Woolworths of Bideford to the Children’s Hospice South West and the local branch of the Imperial Cancer Research Fund.

Bill Grundy, Jon Adams, Kate Silk and Maureen Palmer

When young swimmers from the Bideford Bay Surf Lifesaving Club took the plunge for charity they did it in a big way. Members of the 100-strong club put in a huge effort to raise funds for less fortunate children. Together they have raised around £1,000 which is going to the North Devon Children’s Holiday Foundation.

Students of Edgehill College in Bideford carried off 13 trophies at the Devon and Exeter Festival of Speech and Drama. Their trophy winners were: Margaret Sanders (Buckland Brewer), Sophie Perks (Bideford), Joana Taskis (Halwill), Emily Simons (Ashreigney), Hannah Arnold (Weare Gifford), Natalie Barker (Northam), Diana Scott (Westleigh), Chris Bargery, Anna Forbes, Pandora Garwood, Victoria Jephcote, Daniel Smith (Morwenstow), Moira Johns (Bideford), Rachel Forbes (Ilfracombe).

For sale by public auction – The Laurels, 106 West Street, Hartland.

The Lloyds Bank branch in Hartland is closing despite the protests of local businesses. Firms and individuals face a 30-mile round trip to the nearest branch in Bideford. But Girobank says people can use its service at the village post office.

For sale by public auction – Seacroft, Lakenham Hill, Northam.

Admiral Court, Northam – properties for sale.

Pictured at RAF College Cranwell is Pilot Officer James Bertie, from Northam, who has graduated as an RAF officer. His parents David and Carol still live in Northam. A keen sportsman, James enjoys rugby, cricket and swimming.

An attempted robbery at a Northam supermarket was foiled by the actions of a shop assistant. A man entered the Savers Supermarket in The Square and approached the till, grabbed the assistant’s arm and demanded money. But she broke away and pushed the panic alarm. The man ran out without stealing anything.

Estate agents Brian Sims report the sale of two redundant factories, one was at Torrington where there is permission for houses bordering a communal area and within a short walk of the town centre.

Spring is in the air in Torrington where the young people are already thinking of May Fair. This year’s May Queen will be Kelly Williams and her crowner will be Sarah Callaghan. Making up the royal retinue will be Robbie Tubb, Laurence Oglivie, Emma Gooch, Jai Hepponstall, Corina Bevan, Alaina Barnes, Rachel Bateman, Tayler Burke, Gemma Knight and Sherene Hollands. Just a short distance away the older students of Great Torrington School have made their choices for the girls who will lead the town’s May Fair Carnival parade.

Annette Allan, Nicola Coles, and Natasha Reed

More people are needed in Torrington to ensure the nose meets the tail in a giant charity conga around the town square. Children from the Bluecoat Infants’ and Nursery School are behind the event for Comic Relief, and are backed by the Torrington Cavaliers’ charity group and the town’s Community Development Trust. But the youngsters have a problem. They are more than 300 bodies short of the 561 conga participants needed to encircle the town square and for the ends to meet up.

Bluecoat Infants and deputy head, Jane Rivans

Later in the month, it was reported that Torrington was in dancing mood with some 480 children and adults taking part in a giant fancy dress conga around the town square. Mayor Mike Lamprey and Community Constable Jenny Herniman donned red noses to lead the way. A collection in the streets and the sale of red noses brought in around £450 for the Comic Relief charity.

A well-known North Devon nightspot is being reborn, with the promise of more music, dancing and entertainment. The Kingsley Klub at Westward Ho! is being refurbished and launched at the Kingsley Entertainments Centre after being saved by a businesswoman from the threat of demolition to make room for houses.

Disc jockeys Jonah and Paul Fry at the Kingsley Club

When Peter Sawyer from Atlantic Adventure took on a business partner he got more than he bargained for – a second business within one month! Peter and Bryan Smith are now partners in Atlantic Adventure, a dive centre, and AA Engineering services which offers a multi-skilled engineer, welding, and supply and installation of industrial doors. How is Atlantic Adventure coming on after nearly two years? Said Peter “We now hire the pool at the leisure centre to train divers through the PADI systems. We allow people to try scuba diving. We run a 40-foot charter boat to Lundy and have a second boat on the way.” They dive mainly around Lundy. Bryan does a lot of maintenance engineering and they also carry out welded fabrication and installation work. “We’re currently working on contracts for Torridge Vale and Stapleton Farm Dairies, as well as Wormald Fire systems,” said Peter.

The Buccaneer, Bath Hotel Road, Westward Ho! is opening.

Brother and sister Nicholas and Jennifer Law knew which charity they wanted the prize money donated to when they won a ‘colour the Christmas card’ competition. It was £200. “Please give it to the North Devon Cancer Care Trust” they told the organisers Corinth Medical. It was a welcome surprise for the Trust’s founder and keen fundraiser Jennifer Bonetta because they were her grandchildren! The youngsters are Grenville College pupils and both help out in the Trust’s charity shop at Westward Ho!

When cheese factory worker Tim Medd heard that his local parish church was desperately in need of cash, he decided to get on his bike. Tim will spend his day off pedalling to Land’s End and back from his home at Venn, Woolsery. He is inviting parishioners to sponsor him at so much per mile. All Hallow’s Church at Woolsery is in need of major repairs. Despite a substantial grant from English Heritage, parishioners still have to raise about £12,000.