June 1925
The Bank Holiday
Empire Day was observed in several local parish churches. The war cross at Welcombe was covered with the Union Jack; children at Westleigh were treated to a tea, while the children of Roborough school put on a display of maypole dancing and sang patriotic songs.
Abbotsham Fair.
The Working Committee, together with other helpers, met in the Parish Hall to settle up all accounts in connection with the Village Fair recently held. The total receipts were over £150 and after paying out for the band, tea and other items the nett profits worked out at £115 10s which was considered very satisfactory indeed.
The marriage will take place on June 10th, at St Helen’s, Abbotsham, of Lieutenant G K Thompson, RN, with Kathleen Mary, younger daughter of Major-General F H Kelly, of Kenmare, Westward Ho! Later in the month …
Police Constable Edward Barnacott, whose parents live in Abbotsham, marries Miss Winifred Hunt at Torquay.
The marriage has been solemnised at St Helen’s Church, Abbotsham, of Major Francis Magniac (retired), of Coombe Cot, Abbotsham, and Esther Frances, eldest daughter of the late Mr Henry Bath and widow of Mr Graham Stokes.
A wedding at Alverdiscott with Mr Fred Jones marrying Miss Ethel Clements. An interesting presentation took place after the wedding, the members of the choir presenting the bride with a mounted glass salad bowl and servers. Miss Clements had been a member of the choir for some years.
The Alverdiscott Church Tower repairs are nearing completion and the work (in spite of some critics) has been very well and soundly done. Now we shall have to execute sundry and other repairs to the Church as we have enough in hand to do so. The problem of the upkeep of the Churchyard will also have to be faced.
Mr and Mrs Richard Curtis, of Vernon’s Lane, Appledore, celebrate.
Five candidates from the Appledore Senior Council School were successful in obtaining free place scholarships at the local secondary school – Nora Lock and Lilian Brockett; Doris Harbord and Margery Gray; and John Smith.
The death occurred of Capt Hooper who had severe injuries after falling from the side of the old ‘Revenge’. Great sympathy is felt for Mrs Hooper and family. An inquest was held later in the month. The funeral of the late Captain James Screech, of Market Place, Appledore, took place. He was the son of the late Captain and Mrs Robert Screech, and went to sea at the early age of 13, his first voyage being with Captain Sylvanus Williams in the Western Star, a ship that was later lost with all hands. Owing to his eyesight failing after serving in the famous old ketches Betsey and the Purveyor. The Vicar officiated and referred to the excellent seamanship qualities of the deceased, and also to the simple faith which assisted him to bear patiently his distressing illness.
Properties in Appledore for sale – Fairholme, and no. 1 Gibb’s Lane.
A very pretty wedding took place at St Mary’s Church, Appledore, the Vicar officiating. Miss Mary Heard, daughter of Mr and Mrs William Heard, the sexton, was married to Mr O’Rourke, of Neath. The presents were numerous and useful. The happy couple afterwards left for Wales.
In these days of increasing fuel costs, Bideford Gas and Coke Company Limited stress that they supply cheaper fuel.
Jim Hearn and Dora Hoblin are married at St Mary’s Church, Bideford.
G T Brayley, 3 Bridgeland Street, Bideford
Providence House, Bideford, for sale.
Bideford Urban District Council’s meeting, generous recognition was made of the smart and effective services of the Bideford Fire Brigade at the alarming outbreak in High-street. In his official report the captain of the Brigade, Mr Morris, set on record that on May 25th he received an alarm of fire about 3.45pm by the Fire Alarm System. The maroon was also fired. The captain immediately proceeded to the Fire Station and ordered that the hose was to be taken to the fire which had occurred at the premises of Messrs Stephens Brain and Co. ironmongers, in High Street. Found that a furious fire was raging at the back of the premises, apparently having commenced with the oil stores. The hose was connected to the hydrants in High Street and New Street and carried through Messrs Stephens and Co’s passage and through Messrs Cox and Lee’s premises adjoining. Meanwhile the engine was manhandled down from the Fire Station.
The danger was well over by 7pm but the Brigade remained on duty till 10pm and two men remained on duty all night. The total fire brigades’ and helpers expenses (including £18 5s for the Barnstaple engines and Brigade) amounted to £59 12s 4d. Stephens, Brain & Co. Ltd offer their thanks.
The future of the Bideford War Trophy guns was decided after a heated debate in Committee. The Council in committee now reported in favour of the offer of the Officer Commanding the 6th Devon (TF) to park the guns in front of their Drill Hall on the Pill (almost opposite their former position at the Park Gates) being accepted, the Council to keep the guns in proper order and condition.
Bideford property for sale – Tresillian, at Raleigh.
A Fete at St Mary’s Church, Bideford.
The marriage took place at Bideford Wesleyan Methodist Church of Mr Sidney Violet and Miss Olive Cole.
At an inquest at Brightstone, Isle of Wight, on the body of a seafaring man who was washed ashore it was stated that his clothes bore as the name of the maker “George Boyle, tailor, Bideford” and in his pocket were spectacles stamped “George Way, optician, The Square, Barnstaple.” At an inquest held by the Coroner, Mr G W F Brown, Mrs Mary Hamlyn of Higher Gunstone, Bideford, identified her brother, Arthur Ebsary, as the deceased man who was found at the top of Raleigh Hill by Miss Squires. The Coroner returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.
The Long Bridge, Bideford, is re-opened. Residents along the Quay front and Bridgeland Street are invited to display flags and decorate their premises for the occasion of the Bridge Opening.
With the severing of a silken ribbon barrier with a pair of presentation golden-handled scissors and the unveiling of a handsome bronze tablet bearing an inscription, Earl Fortescue, the Lord Lieutenant of Devon, re-opened the celebrated ‘Long’ Bridge of Bideford after its extensive reconstruction and widening, the preparatory work for which was commenced on the piers and cutwaters some thirteen years ago. The occasion, quite rightly, was made one of great public rejoicing; the town was gaily beflagged, and the ceremony witnessed by many thousands of visitors, including many figuring prominently in the public life of the county. A book titled “The story of the Long Bridge” is on sale, priced at 1 shilling “and as much more as you can afford”. Every penny will go to the Children’s Ward at the hospital.
Church Girls’ School, Bideford – As the result of the examination held on May 16th 1925, at the Barnstaple Grammar School, two free scholarships have been awarded to Irene Gladys Stephens and Marjorie Vera Bartingale.
Before the Mayor (Dr Toye), and Messrs J Cock, J U Fulford, G Boyle and J H Davis – Augustus Moore, coal heaver, of Strand Cottage, Bideford, was fined 3s for not having a name on the collar of his dog. For driving a motor lorry without a license, Owen Found, High Bullen, St Giles, was fined 3s.
Much sympathy is felt with Mr and Mrs S England, of Elm Grove, Bideford, in the loss of their daughter, Rose, who passed away at the age of 31 years after a long illness patiently borne. The funeral took place at the Public Cemetery and was largely attended. Rev J T Halstead officiated.
Go to Heard Brothers Ltd at Westcombe and Broad Quay, Bideford for a complete four seater car for £125.
Bideford’s new surveyor, Mr F J Harris, lives in Park Avenue.
A presentation to Mr F A Searle, who for about thirty years, was manager of Fox, Fowler and Co.’s Bank at Bideford, and retired at the end of April last, will be made at the Town Hall. His Worship the Mayor, Dr Toye, will make the presentation on behalf of customers of the Bank.
In connection with the Bradworthy Branch of the Women’s Institute, a very pleasant evening was spent in the Hotel Room when there about thirty members present. Captain Muro, RN, gave a very interesting lecture on China, Mrs J Bond won first prize in the bread competition. Tea was provided and three new members were enrolled.
The death took place at Berridon Cottage of Mrs M A Harris.
The funeral took place amidst scenes of sympathy and regret of Mr Richard Boundy, of High Park, Bradworthy, who passed away at the age of 67 years. Deceased was held in high esteem and was well known in agricultural circles. Sincere sympathy is extended to the widow and children in their bereavement and great sorrow. Rev Edwards rector of Woolfardisworthy officiated.
At a special session at Bideford, a labourer of Handy Cross, Bideford, pleaded guilty to stealing from the Church Cemetery Lodge, Buckland Brewer, two 10s notes, the property of Mrs Mable Steer, wife of the caretaker.
A well attended meeting of the Buckland Brewer Women’s Conservative Association was held at Orleigh Court. Mr W H Rogers occupied the choir and Mr G H May, the assistant agent attended. After the business was completed the Chairman kindly entertained the members to tea at the Court.
Bucks Cross was lucky to have glorious weather for its Vicarage Fete which raised £83.
A freehold farm known as Highworthy, Clovelly, for sale.
Mr Elston, of Clovelly, is saved by Mr Stanley Braund.
Picturesque Clovelly was thronged with visitors …
Clovelly successful sports day at Wrinkleberry.
Fremington grazing farm, Woodlands, for sale. The owner is Mr Richards.
Mrs Westlake, of West Fattacott, Hartland, was standing on a form to reach a shelf when she fell against a sink. Her forehead was cut so that Dr Kay had to put in stitches, and one arm very badly strained. Mr Herbert Webber, of Blegberry, has unfortunately lost his donkey, the animal unfortunately falling over the cliff.
Harbour Cross Sunday School re-opened.
Despite the rain there has been a scarcity of water in Hartland. Simultaneously the pumps in Well Lane and opposite New Inn went out of action, and a leak in the pipeline opposite Mr Headon’s deprived taps of their flow.
The brothers Moore, of Welsford, have written home concerning their safe arrival in Australia. They are about 140 miles apart, Charles of Wormelang (out in the Bush0, 250 miles from Melbourne, and John at Birchip 143 miles distance from the Victorian Capital. Hartland Parish Council was informed by the Charity Commission that the appointment of two trustees for four years in charge of the Almshouses was long overdue. Mr S Cann was re-appointed but Mr John Dennis did not desire to stand again. Mr W H Taylor was elected. Two school managers, Rev Gregory and Mr J Dennis were re-appointed, and Messrs H Haynes and William J Pennington became the two additional managers to be named by this Council.
Miss Edith Hobbs and Mr Richard Westlake are married at Hartland.
Hartland news.
Mr Stanley Arthur Lane of Tanjong Pagar, Instow, late manager Singapore Harbour Board, left £9,462 with nett personalty, 38,662. Probate has been granted to his widow, Mrs Ethel Constanow Lane, of the same address, and Mr Herbert Francis.
The wedding took place at the Savoy Chapel of Mr Marcus Beresford Chichester, youngest son of the late Rear Admiral Sir Edward Chichester and Lady Chichester, of Instow, and Miss Myra Brownrigg Jay, youngest daughter of the late Major Harvey Brownrigg Jay and Mrs Brownrigg Jay.
Lundy birds.
It was the 29th anniversary of the laying of the foundation stone of the new Church of St Helen’s on Lundy Island, which was built by the late squire and rector, Rev H C Heaven. The Vicar of Appledore, who held two services, complimented the Churchwardens, Mrs Smith and Miss Sage, on the splendid start they had made in raising the 340 or £50 necessary to completely restore and repair their Church. Owing to generous gifts from Miss Sage, Lieut Sleep, RN, and Mrs Smith collecting from the Islanders, and the Campbell Boat passengers they had close upon £10.
The Vicar of Appledore completes 1,000 miles in the s.s. Lerina.
The Vicar of Appledore visited North End Lighthouse whilst on Lundy and took photographs of puffins and kittiwakes sitting on their nests. He also reports seeing a shearwater, which is unusual in daylight as they usually only return to their nests after dark.
Cooking and laundry classes conducted by Miss Oates have started at St Mark’s School, Morwenstow. Mr Pilman, the headmaster, kindly placed the school house at her disposal.
The marriage of Miss Dorothy Jessie Taylor, the eldest daughter of Mr J H Taylor – the multi-champion Northam golfer – and of Mrs Taylor, of the Lodge, Mid-Surrey …
The funeral took place at Northam Churchyard of John Raymond, youngest son of Mr and Mrs C Littlejohns. The service was conducted by the Rev Hutchinson, of Westward Ho! Much sympathy has been expressed with Mr and Mrs Granville Kelly, of Castle Street, Northam, in the death of their little daughter, Joyce, at the age of four years. The funeral took place in Northam Churchyard, Rev H J Hutchinson officiating.
At Parkham, May proved a wet month, the total rainfall being 6.19 inches. On three days during the month an inch of rain fell each day. The Parkham fete that was to have taken place at Penhaven on July 2nd in aid of church funds, has been abandoned owing to unforeseen circumstances.
Parkham to form a branch of the British Legion?
Jeanette Pickard of Parkham, aged 10 years, a pupil at the County School, has won a County Boarding Scholarship tenable for three years at Edgehill College.
At Shebbear, the New Inn Cross Wesleyan Methodist Church celebrated its Sunday School Anniversary …
We regret to state that Mrs A George, of Cabbacott, is seriously ill. The death of Mr Henry Hearn took place at the residence of his son, Mr J H Hearn, of Moortown, Shebbear, after a brief illness. Deceased was highly respected. Much regret has been felt in Shebbear by the serious illness of Mrs Elizabeth Blight, who is one of the oldest inhabitants in the village. Sincere regret was felt in the parish when it became known that Mr William Stacey, at Kinnacott, Clawton, has passed away. Deceased was a local preacher of high reputation. His services at the Wesleyan Church at New Inn Cross were always admirable.
Mr Arthur Bale and Mrs Sarah Bromell marry at the Wesleyan Chapel at New Cross.
Miss Bessie Jeffery and David Williams marry at Shebbear.
Weather conditions for the opening of Great Torrington Agricultural Show were almost the worst possible. Torrential rain fell all Tuesday night, so that the Town Park ground was quickly cut up by the wheeled traffic, and many of the outlying roads were flooded and motor cars had difficulty in getting through. The rain continued well into the morning but the afternoon proved more propitious, and the exhibition made a fine recovery when the sun came out and the Town Band added an air of liveliness to the proceedings. The attendance grew rapidly and was most satisfactory. The paper carries a full list of judges, prize winners and luncheon speakers.
Although not open for passenger traffic yet the new Torrington-Halwill Railway is practically in operation. There have to be certain inspections and formalities but it is understood the line will be open for full service in July. The miniature engines of the Petersmarland narrow gauge railway, a familiar sight for a great number of years from Station Hill at Torrington have been removed from that end altogether will all the light railway stock to the North Devon Clay Company’s pits, to be used in future about the works there. A sad fatality occurred at Hatherleigh, the victim being a young Torrington man named James Pitts, engaged as a carpenter’s mate on the Hatherleigh Railway, who was drowned while bathing in Simmon’s Pit. At the inquest held at the New Inn, evidence of identification was given by Mr Walter Pitts of Well-street, who said the deceased was 20 years of age. Witness did not think deceased could swim.
The attendance for the whist drive and dance in the Drill Hall at Torrington was very good. The successful players at whist …
The funeral of Mrs Fanny Holwill, widow of the late Frederick Holwill, of Torrington.
The Rev Preb F Emlyn Jones, Vicar of Torrington, officiated at the funeral of Mrs Hannah Jordan, widow of the late Mr George Jordan. She passed away at the Black Horse Hotel, the residence of her brother, Mr H Grantham.
To meet the costs recently involved by the necessary repairs to the Minister’s House and a deficit on the ordinary Circuit accounts, a successful ‘rainbow bazaar’ was held in the Wesleyan Schoolroom. The Mayor, Mr G M Doe, presided, and said their aim was to raise about £200.
Reported later in the month,
At a special sitting of Torrington Magistrates, a man of no fixed abode was charged with breaking into the parish church and stealing 7s 9d in silver and coppers from the offertory box.
Torrington housing tenders for Goose Green.
A pretty wedding at Torrington for Thomas Kelly and Winnie McCarthy.
Weare Gifford strawberry tea and sports at the Barton, by kind permission of Mr R Powell.
A pretty wedding took place at Westleigh Church, the Rev Conrad Finzel officiating. The bride was the only daughter of Mr and Mrs William Beer, of Southcott, Westleigh, and the bridegroom the third son of Mr and Mrs W Hill, of the Chalet Lodge, Tawstock. Owing to the ill health of her father, the bride was given away by her brother, Mr Herbert Beer.
Anniversary services at Westleigh.
Empire Day at Westleigh.
The Amateur Golf Championship at Westward Ho! attracted press representatives from all over the country, and one Scottish paper sent two reporters. Quite a number brought portable typewriters and out of the eight of these machines counted in the press tent, seven were ‘Coronas.’ Their portability and dependability is obvious. Coles & Lee, agents, Bideford.
Mr Robert Harris defeats Mr K F Fradgley.
Shebbertown Races.
On Wednesday evening the 10th the Rev G L Edwards, Vicar of Woolsery, gave a song recital in HM Prison, Exeter, by invitation of the Governor. A wide range of composers was covered but Wagner was most appreciated. A group of children’s songs added variety to an interesting programme. At the conclusion the singer was thanked. The audience throughout shewed great enthusiasm.
And finally, the press is informed that there is no truth in the rumour that Miss Sylvia Spooner, daughter of Mr Clarence Spooner, contemplates marriage with an elderly gentleman with whom her name is being associated.
June 1975
Known as the Year of the Lifeboat because in it the Royal National Lifeboat Institution celebrated its 150th anniversary, 1974 was also the busiest operational year the service has ever known.
Many holidaymakers were among those who attended Abbotsham WI’s ‘Mayfayre’ when part of the proceeds were for CARE.
Anniversary at Abbotsham Baptist Sunday School.
A conflict of views about whether a golf course at Abbotsham Court would be a desirable amenity was revealed at a public inquire at Bideford. The inquiry was into an appeal by Mr Gordon Davis, of Abbotsham Court, and Major Giles Lomas, as mortgagee, against an enforcement notice served by Torridge District Council requiring the discontinuance of the use of land as a golf course for which planning permission had not been granted. The Countyside Commission had also objected to the formation of the course. The inquiry was told that when an application for a nine-hole course was made, it was refused but when the site was visited, it was found that the course had been constructed and was in use.
Mothers’ Union Deanery Festival at Alwington.
John Stam is made welcome by Dick and Phyllis Taylor at their New Street, Appledore, home.
An Old Boy of Bideford Grammar School, Lieut-Cmdr Adrian Sidney Martin, RNR, was awarded the MBE in the Birthday Honours list.
Two local teenagers are counting the days to the time when they set sail for foreign parts. Stuart Clements, son of Mr and Mrs Harold Clements, of Cresta, Watertown, Appledore, is due to leave Hull on board the Sail Training Association’s Sir Winston Churchill for a fortnight’s cruise. And when the vessel leaves Birkenhead for a second trip on July 13, Stuart Green, only son of Mr and Mrs Richard Green, of Richmond Park, Northam, will be on board.
The Vicar of Appledore, Rev Donald Peyton Jones, is now a well known figure as he does his rounds on his mare Magpie. At 15 Maggie is getting past her best but there are no fears of the Vicar having to turn to shanks’ pony. He has been given another horse, this time a handsome hunter standing 16hh, by a friend, and it is this horse Sammy, which will carry his 13 stone in future while Maggie takes it east after seven year’s labour.
A private sewer at Staddon Road, Appledore, was not at present up to the standard required for it to be taken over by the Council, Torridge District Council’s Environmental and Leisure Services Committee have been told. The committee are to write to the owners telling them that if the sewer is brought up to standard the Council will consider taking it over.
Two proposals involving the changing of windows of premises on Appledore Quay received a mixed reception at the meeting of Torridge District Council’s Development Committee. The conversion of the former Sailors’ Rest recreation room into a flat and shop for Appledore Developments was refused. The removal of an existing front window and insertion of a bow window in place of a French window at 8 The Quay, for Mr A E Powe, was given the go-ahead. In each case the planning officer, Mr Hodder, had recommended refusal.
Odun House, Appledore, to be sold by auction in July.
In connection with the launching of certain ships, Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd were draining the reservoir at Appledore and ‘causing nuisance and inconvenience to local residents, as well as being an obvious health risk’ reported the Finance and General Purposes Committee to Torridge District Council. The chief technical officer and chief environmental health officer are to investigate and report.
Messrs J Hinks and Son make progress on Valkyrja at Appledore.
Later in the month …
No breakwater for West Appledore.
Capt William Harris, whose death occurred at his home, Hinode, Pitt Hill, Appledore, had almost a story book career in the Merchant Navy.
The funeral has taken place at Appledore Baptist Church of Mrs Ada Williams, of Market Street, Appledore.
Mrs Ada Lamey, of Meeting Street, Appledore, who died at her home was well known in Appledore and was a member of the Appledore Royal British Legion Women’s Section. There was a large attendance at the funeral at St Mary’s Church.
Major Leslie Ancliffe, who lives at Garth, Diddywell, Appledore, has recently acquired the St Mawes Ferry Co. which provides a year-round link between St Mawes and Falmouth. The company operates four boats and Major Ancliffe has extended the service to Percuil and St Anthony. At present he spends three days a week at Falmouth attending ferry business. He has always been interested in boats and has a small one moored at Appledore.
After playing football nonstop for 15 hours to raise money for kit and equipment, members of the former Bideford YC North Devon League Division 1 side look like having their hopes of re-forming dashed by the shortage of pitches in the Bideford area. Mr Geoff Butler, spokesman for the team, who are planning to name themselves Bideford Centre Exiles, said that the local council had been unable to help because of the tremendous pressure already on local pitches.
A group of parents and girls of Stella Maris School, Bideford, accompanied by the headmistress spent a weekend in Landivisiau, Britanny – Bideford’s prospective twin-town – as guests of parents and staff of St Joseph’s School there.
Bideford Sports Hall now hardly used.
Within the past decade more than £110,000 has been raised for new buildings at Moreton for Grenville College, Bideford. An important step in the realisation of the projects was reached when the Countess of Devon opened Crabbe House – named after the headmaster, Mr J R Crabbe, who is leaving at the end of this school year – and a north wing to Scott House. A wooden salad bowl, of coopered construction which he had himself made, was presented to the Countess by pupil Richard Pope of Instow.
Thieves entered the shop of W E Patt in Avon Road, Bideford East and got away with 2,600 cigarettes and a quantity of trading stamps. Entry was gained through a window and the exit by forcing the front door.
Bideford businessman Mr Terry Derrigan and his wife are not certain how much longer they will be able to call their home their own. For the past 17 years they have lived at Swiss Cottage, adjoining the main road between Bideford and Northam. But now they believe the shadow of demolition hangs over their pleasant home – the second time in seven years. Proposals were announced for a new bypass to serve the Bideford area which will involve the construction of a new bridge across the River Torridge – and the Derrigans believe that the house will be in the direct line if the southern bridge site is chosen. “The unhappy situation is that we don’t know – and we can’t get anyone to tell us. Our only information is the proposed route map which has been sent out and from that it is difficult to tell the exact line” said Mr Derrigan. It is not the first time their home …
Residents of Brennacott Road, Bideford, were living in fear of their lives following incidents there involving heavy lorries, Bideford Town Council have been told. One woman had been particularly alarmed when, with a screech of brakes, a lorry had stopped outside her house with a wheel in her garden, said Mrs Brown. There had also been complaints about a ‘dreadful leak of oil’ which rand down into gardens. A large unattended trailer had run away and careered into the garden of a bungalow, said Mr Coates.
The advent of a ‘unisex’ summer skittles league has provided many local couples with the opportunity to take part in their favourite sport together for the first time. The popularity of the move has been shown by the high proportion of husbands and wives competing and this picture showing the Red Devils on a visit to the Portobello alley to meet Guys and Dolls, features four married couples in the two sides.
Bideford and Devon darts player Owen Trick makes his debut as an English international when he plays against Wales at Plymouth. Owen who lives at Brookfield Street, East-the-Water, is hoping that a good performance against the Welshmen will earn him a place in the English team which will be travelling to America later this summer.
Described as ‘a most magnificent gift’ a new, fully-equipped ambulance, plus a £300 cheque to start a maintenance fund, has been presented by Bideford Rotary Club to Bideford St John Ambulance Association to mark the club’s golden jubilee. The ceremony took place in Bideford’s Victoria Park. The vehicle was handed over to Supt John Brown by the president of Bideford Rotary Club, Mr Ron Smith.
A detailed knowledge of the area must be a great advantage to any potential Town Crier. And in Mr Michael Sussex, who this week accepted Bideford Town Council’s invitation to fill the post, the town has a man who not only has an intimate knowledge of its streets but has visited practically every house. For the past 24 years Mr Sussex, of Pynes Lane, has worked as a dustman.
Karen Taylor, younger daughter of Mr and Mrs Michael Taylor of Denkar, Southwood Drive, Bideford, and her dancing partner, Sandra Wasley, won the Devon and Cornwall (closed) junior old-time championship. A week earlier they were placed third in the national under-14 (all girls) section at Wembley.
Margaret and Tony Petherbridge of Bideford are winners.
Revisiting Bideford from New Zealand where they settled after their marriage here 25 years ago are Mr and Mrs Arthur Eastmond. During their visit they have celebrated their silver wedding. They return at the end of August.
The funeral has taken place at Buckland Brewer Methodist Church of Mrs Florence Vanstone, of Rickards Row, Buckland Brewer.
Clovelly Estate Company have been told that Torridge District Council cannot give financial support towards the repair of the breakwater there. But the Council are prepared to help with advice and in any other way possible. The Estate Company, owners of Clovelly pier and breakwater, had asked if the Council, as the coast protection authority, were prepared to contribute towards the work required. The Council’s chief technical officer, Mr Barber, considered that the breakwater not only sheltered the harbour but protected some of the cottages in the vicinity. The Estate Company were talking in terms of £12,000 but this was only an approximate cost based on a scheme prepared some years ago.
Clovelly lifeboat’s help is rebuffed.
A fancy dress ball which was held at the Parish Hall in aid of Clovelly’s Play Group was organised by Miss Denise Friend. Winners included Moreen Palmer, Colin Brook, Mr and Mrs P Thompson, the Perham family and Mrs C Grant. Refreshments were served by members of the Play Group.
Furniture and effects sale at Southover, Dolton, near Torrington.
A peal was rung by Dolton bellringers in honour of Mr Reuben Clements on his 96th birthday. He is Dolton’s eldest resident, and for many years was a very active member of St Edmund’s bellringers.
A coffee morning at Dolton.
At a coffee evening held at the Vicarage, Frithelstock, by kind invitation of the Rev and Mrs L Budge, £19 was raised for the Church Restoration Fund. Draw winners were Mrs Hookway and Mr R Bond.
Frithelstock Sunday school anniversary.
A ‘Summer Fayre’ was held at Deer Parks, Hartland, in aid of Play Group funds. There were various stalls and a profit of approximately £30 was made.
Hartland tennis court project completed.
Winners at Hartland whist drives in aid of cancer funds and tennis funds included Mesdames Allin, Squires, Vanstone, Littlejohns, Rogers, O Westlake, J Hobbs, Rogers, Johns, D Heard, J Heard, G Jeffery, Misses Turner and R Westlake, Messrs J Haggan, Allin, Squires, Mills, A Walter, Houchin, Shute, Branton and Mills.
About 30 people took part in a sponsored walk in aid of cancer funds at Hartland. The walk, approximately 11 miles, started from the Square and finished at the Kings Arms, where tea and refreshments were available.
Hartland Methodist Church have celebrated their 60th Church anniversary.
Instow’s supermarket – Johns.
A locally-owned winner at Torrington Farmers’ Hunt point-to-point meeting was Perfidia, a mare owned by Mr Frank Steer of Trayhill, Instow. She was ridden by a well known point-to-point rider Mrs Sue Horton.
Langtree Over 60s Club had an enjoyable outing to Tarr Steps, where a picnic tea was held, via South Molton, North Molton and Withypool. The homeward journey was via Dulverton and the Exe Valley.
Rose Farm, Langtree, for sale.
A dance in aid of St Swithin’s Church, Littleham, made a profit of over £95. Door stewards were Messrs R Smale and J Devereux and refreshments were provided by Mrs A Mills and helpers. Competition winners were Mesdames H Phillips and P Willis, Messrs R Smale, A Marshall and P Willis.
At the annual meeting of the Parish Council at Littleham Parish Hall, officers elected were: Mr A Mills, Mr L J Badcock, Mrs McGann, Messrs C Wood, T Kelland, S Turner, W Heard and C Ackland.
Lundy Island residents are expected to vote ‘yes’.
Six hundred members of the National Trust had the opportunity to see for themselves the repair and preservation work that has been carried out on Lundy Island since it became Trust property some five years ago. The Balmoral specially chartered by the Trust for the day, took them to the island to provide an opportunity for an on-the-spot inspection. Visitors were given the freedom of the island to see for themselves not only what work has been done but how great care has been exercised not to spoil its character. The water supply has been improved, the electricity system has been renewed and extended, drains installed or replaced, and holiday cottages modernised. Millcombe House, now in use as a hotel, has had a new roof and other alterations made, and the Old Light, long used as a hostel, has also been gradually improved. The Barn at the top of the so-called High Street is being re-modelled to serve as another hostel. The Landmark Trust is obviously doing a good job as far as Lundy is concerned. Those who value the island for what it is can rest content that is future seems to be in very good hands.
Mrs Shirley Braunton was chosen to be the Monkleigh Fete Queen at a dance held at the Village Hall.
£80 raised by Monkleigh fete.
Monkleigh branch of the Friends of Torrington School raised £18.60 for the school instrument fund by a jumble sale organised by Mrs M Jewell and Mrs M Sanders, aided by many helpers. The draw was won by Mrs B Braunton. Monkleigh celebrates the centenary of the reconstruction of the main building of the village school. The benefactor who made this building possible was a member of the Pine-Coffin family. Today, as for many generations past, the family is closely associated with Bideford district and has readily cooperated with the loan of items for an exhibition on display at the school.
By the death of Major Sir George Couper, of Annery Barton, Monkleigh, North Devon has lost a colourful personality in the nicest sense of the phrase. He was man who loved and understood horses from a lifetime spent with them. ‘Major George’ as he was more usually known, succeeded to a baronetcy about two years ago on the death of a cousin in Australia.
£25,000 for 1.3 acres – Burrough Farm, Northam.
Durrant House Hotel, Northam, the luxury hotel which was part of the Court Line Group, has been sold to a Barnstaple businessman, Mr Roy James, for £150,000. Mr James, together with his wife Joy, will take a personal interest in the hotel, which will be run, as it has been for the past four and a half years, by Mr John Starke and his wife Sheila.
Northam Town Council’s suggestion that the existing tip on the Burrows should be extended over an area linking up with the sand dunes, to strengthen sea defences at that point, has not been enthusiastically received. The Council has been told that the county area engineer does not think crude refuse would be suitable for the site or good for the amenities and that it could prove an extremely expensive business.
During the next few weeks many children from St Margaret’s School, Northam, will be busily engaged studying butterflies. The children will be attempting to gain the Butterfly Spotters’ Badge awarded by the Devon Trust for Nature Conservation. The object of the exercise is to stimulate children’s interest in and concern for wild life. So enthusiastic was the response to a day’s outing to Bath arranged by Northam and District Men’s Forum – 98 wished to go – that two coaches were engaged. The programme included those to the Royal Baths and Pump Room, the Assembly Rooms and the Museum of Costume. Later there was a coach tour of the city accompanied by a local guide.
Contravening waiting restrictions cost David Westlake of Fore Street, Northam, £4 at the local magistrates court.
Mr and Mrs Ronald Millman, of Sanctuary, Shebbear, have been sampling a new experience out West ‘home on the range’ of the Bar K Ranch, near Calgary, Canada.
The death occurred at his home, Sunnyview, Calvesford Road, Torrington, of Mr Charles Copp, a well known Torrington businessman. He was the husband of Mrs Hilda Copp and leaves two marries sons, Messrs David and John Copp.
The funeral service has taken place of Mrs Eva Baker, of New Street, Torrington. She was the widow of Mr Reginald John Baker who was the organist at the Methodist Chapel.
Mr Jim Martin, Torrington’s go-ahead Mayor said “This is only one of several steps to put Torrington well and truly on the map, not only as far as North Devon is concerned but in the Westcountry generally. Torrington is already getting are reputation as a really progressive town, one determined to look ahead, and we aim to maintain that image.” It was at the invitation of Mr Martin that the four-lane 25 metre pool was officially opened by Mr Clarrie Metherell, chairman of Torridge District Council.
New Inn seems to be a popular name for public houses in the Westcountry but it is fairly certain that there cannot be many called Admiral Vernon. This is the new name chosen for the former New Inn in Well Street, Torrington, where mine hosts are former Navy man Mr Jack Boyd and his wife Joyce.
Elizabeth Elliott, of Atlantic Way, Westward Ho! has entered the Miss Pears 1975 competition, and if she wins will get a cheque for £500. Six area finalists who will be chosen to spend several days in London prior to the crowning ceremony on July 22 will each receive £100.
Cycling complaint at Westward Ho!
Although emergency expenditure could not be ruled out, the £75,000 scheme recently completed at Westward Ho! Pebble Ridge was designed to withstand the tidal conditions and storms of a normal winter, the chief technical officer, Mr Clive Barber, told Torridge Council’s Environmental and Leisure Services Committee. He explained that the expected natural build-up of pebbles from the provision of new groynes would take up to two years to be fully effective. Spring tides and onshore winds could lead to the ridge being overtopped but this in itself was not detrimental to sea defence.
During the Martini tournament at Westward Ho! £360 worth of golf equipment was stolen from the exhibition tent of RND club professional Stanley Taggart.
Woolsery Methodist Church Sunday School anniversary.
Woolsery Methodist Church held a sponsored ‘knit’ to raise money for Chapel funds and proceeds were £173. From a sponsored walk, £144 was raised for the Chapel.
A red letter day for Woolsery. Not only was a £200,000 hotel development opened by the chairman of the English Tourist Board, Sir Mark Henig, but later in the day – at a separate function – the official twinning charter between Woolsery and Beuvron en Auge in France was signed. The hotel development is at Moorhead, originally a small farm which was first converted to provide a restaurant, bar and lounge, plus 12 bedrooms. Now under a scheme which has qualified for English Tourist Board assistance, 16 luxurious holiday flats, plus a swimming pool and terrace, and other amenities, have been provided. Moorhead was the setting for the official signing of the twinning charter.
Mr and Mrs Richard Chamings, Mr and Mrs Peter Andrew, M and Mme Jean Duval and M and Mme Malfilatre
The death has occurred of Mr Percy Jewell, of Leworthy Cross, Woolsery. Mourners at the funeral at All Hallows Church, Woolsery, were: Colin and Bonham Jewell, sons; Mr C Nicholls, son-in-law; Mr G Curtis, brother-in-law; Mr and Mrs T Hockin and Mr and Mrs J Hockin, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; Mr and Mrs R Wilkey, grandchildren. The bearers were Messrs N Bray, O Bray, J Fox, L W Pugsley, W J Pickard and J Harding.
An outing was very much enjoyed by all members of the ‘Senior Citizens’ Friendship Club’ of Woolsery, when they visited Dr Smart’s gardens, Combe Martin, Ilfracombe and Woolacombe.
June 2000
A Government Minister, Defence Procurement Minister Baroness Symons, called at Appledore Shipbuilders with news of two years’ job security for the employees and for hundreds more of its sub-contractors and suppliers. It was with one eye on hoped for MoD contracts that Appledore has planned a £6.5m extension of its building dock to widen its markets by constructing larger vessels. The managing director Jim Wilson said the new order, together with the second fisheries protection vessel and the second Sail Training Association ship meant the yard’s forward order book now stood at £66m.
Joanna Osborne, the first girl apprentice employed at Appledore Shipbuilders, meets Baroness Symons
A programme of work to repair a quayside flood defence scheme in Appledore began. The Environment Agency is removing the masonry cladding from the tidal defence scheme after three pieces of it have fallen off. The £2.2m flood defence scheme was completed only in 1997 to protect the homes and businesses on the quay which had suffered regularly from flooding high tides. But a study of the wall began in December when a small section of the decorative stonework fell away from the reinforced concrete behind. Two further incidents have occurred since then.
Sunnyholme, 1 Alpha Place, Appledore – for sale.
Residents and visitors are being invited to spend a tranquil time in Bideford. In a joint initiative the Baptist, Church of England and Quaker churches are promoting a weekly “Quiet Time.” Based at the Baptist Church in Mill Street, there will be a chance to sit quietly, reflect or pray. There will be poetry, music, prayer and silence.
Bideford curate the Reverend Penny Dobbin is enlisting her own garden army to help set up a quiet and colourful sanctuary for local residents and visitors to the town.
Later in the month it was reported – Bideford Parish Church’s ‘garden army’ marched into action for the first time to start the creation of a quiet and colourful sanctuary for residents and visitors to the town. Being set up in the garden of St Mary’s House in Church Walk, it is to be called the Garden of Hope to mark its link with Bideford’s wider Fields of Hope project.
A television celebrity will cut the ribbon to officially open Bideford’s new Atlantic Village factory outlet centre on August 3 as part of a day of celebration and entertainment. But shoppers will get an earlier chance to visit the centre and its visitor attractions with its doors due to open for the first time on July 13.
Simon Aspinall, from Bideford, is a finalist.
Mediaeval costume and merriment marked the annual Market Charter Day in Bideford as the town commemorated the entitlement to hold its pannier market. The charter dated 1272 and authorising the town to hold a weekly market and three annual fairs gave reason to celebrate in style. Lords, bold knights – courtesy of the North Devon Jousting Association – council representatives and servants joined in procession to the Pannier Market for a public proclamation and to enjoy cheese and wine donated by the stallholders, many of whom had also donned period dress.
Famous women graced the rinks of Bideford Ladies Bowling Club in Victoria Park as members celebrated its golden anniversary. Depicting women through the ages the lady bowlers transformed themselves into famous females. Among them were some whose mothers were founder members when the club was formed in 1950 and the annual subscription was three shilling and sixpence compared to today’s £70.
Sylvia Moody and Margaret Cracknell
Rotarians from Biddeford, Maine, in the USA and from Uelzen in Germany travelled to Torridgeside to join in the 75th anniversary celebrations of Bideford Rotary Club. A highlight of the celebrations was the anniversary dinner at the Commodore Hotel at Instow attended by more than 100 members and guests. The following day a bed of 75 ‘Fellowship’ roses in Victoria Park was formally handed over to Torridge District Council.
Richard Lagarde, Brian Cooke, Gil Domingue (Biddeford-Saco Rotary Club)
Flowers from Dame Vera Lynne were among the tributes received at the funeral of Mrs Irene Hunt of Bideford. Mrs Hunt was the wife of writer and historian Leslie Hunt who knew Dame Vera in his early years as an entertainer. More than 100 mourners attended the service at Bideford Parish Church. In addition to the floral tributes donations were taken for The Marie Curie Cancer Fund.
Bideford neighbours Liz Luxton and Sue Jackson could be said to have created a ‘traffic jam’ of their very own. While personalise number plates are usually the preserve of the enthusiast the women have unwittingly joined their ranks. Liz recently bought another car but it was not until she parked it behind Sue’s Citroen a few days later that she noticed there was more than a colour connection.
Old stagers will be joined by new talent at a special evening of entertainment at Tantons Hotel in Bideford. After 40 years in showbiz, cabaret artist Jack Daniels has been joined by his wife and duo partner Sue in setting up their own recording and rehearsal studio in Bideford, where they are cutting their own CDs and passing on their skills to would-be stars of the future.
Job opportunities at Tantons Hotel, Bideford.
The Bideford factory of AMP Ltd threw one of the region’s biggest millennium parties with more than 1,000 people attending a special day at The Milky Way Adventure Park at Clovelly. The millennium bash was put on by the factory’s social club for present and retired staff and their families. It was opened by the Mayor of Bideford Cllr Noel Deakes and Mrs Marlene Deakes to the accompaniment of Bideford Town Band. The day climaxed with fireworks, a hog roast and live bands – and for lucky winners in the firm’s draw, a hot-air balloon trip.
Bideford Football Club switches on bright new future.
Grenville Ridge, Bideford, properties for sale.
Detached chalet bungalow for sale at Buckland Brewer.
Has anyone seen a friendly falcon? A substantial reward is being offered by North Devon falconer Jonathan Marshall for information leading to the safe return of his favourite, called Willow. Jonathan runs the North Devon Bird of Prey Centre at the Milky Way Adventure Park, Clovelly.
An harmonious return of the RNLI to Clovelly was completed as the institute’s president The Duke of Kent officially opened its refurbished lifeboat house and named its new lifeboat. It was 12 years ago that official RNLI lifeboat cover was withdrawn from the fishing village. But Clovelly’s proud tradition as a lifeboat station dating back to 1870 was, in fact, only briefly broken. With the loss of the RNLI boat the community rallied to provide, sustain and man its own lifeboat for eight years before the institution took it on board again in 1998. The first royal visitor to the famous cobbled village, the Duke opened the refurbished building and named the lifeboat Spirit of Clovelly before she took to the water, with a Search and Rescue helicopter from Chivenor trailing a RNLI flag overhead. Accepting the new lifeboat on behalf of the Clovelly station its honorary secretary Laurie Winsborrow said “It is very reassuring to all of us that the RNLI has shown confidence in placing this Atlantic 75 on this station – we will not let you down.”
Helmsman’s daughters Daisy and Emma Perham present the Duke with a picture
Naturally Yours Health and Beauty Clinic in Fremington now offers clients Thermotherapy – a revolutionary method of dealing with ear problems. Said therapist and clinic owner Carol Jackson: “It uses a ‘candle’ made from medicinal herbs, honey extracts and chamomile. The warmth draws out the wax.” Here she treats her own son Ryan for glue ear. “It can also help with sinusitis, rhinitis, migraine and ringing,” said Carol.
Two special people are being sought by Fremington Parish Council who want residents of their area to find them. The Citizen of the Year and Young Citizen of the Year will be chosen for their contribution to the community or for significant personal achievement. The new awards will be presented at the end of the summer and the council wants local residents to nominate anyone they feel deserves the honour.
Instow Primary School pupil Scott Cooper has won the top prize in a county-wide competition to mark National School Meals Week. Scott will receive his prize of a ‘Millennium Dome’ tent plus rucksack, torch, compass and other equipment at his school assembly.
Instow property for sale.
Property for sale at Littleham.
A vintage car display will be one of the highlights at Littleham Village Fete. The event will be opened by the chairman of Torridge District Council, Councillor Royston Johns. Alice the tractor will be delighting the children by giving tractor rides around the field next to the Village Hall. She will also be taking part in a vintage vehicle rally organised by her owner, Lionel Badcock, and Derek Clarke, which has attracted about 70 entries from far and wide.
Villagers of Monkleigh turned out in force to bid a first class farewell to their popular postman Norman Stannard when he retired. A meal at the village pub the Bell Inn turned into a surprise party for Norman and his wife Elizabeth, who live at East-the-Water, Bideford. Knowing their love of their garden the villagers presented them with a garden seat and ornamental pots while the nearby hamlet of Saltrens added £125 in gift vouchers.
Police are appealing to the consciences of thieves who stole a safe from Northam Methodist Church to return its contents – which include marriage and birth certificates. “There was no money in the safe …
Naturalists explore Northam Burrows.
North Devon Hospice is opening another fund raising shop – in Cornmarket Street, Torrington. The former wool shop will be offering the usual mix of clothes, bric-a-brac and books.
Trenching is being dug along the mainly rural B3277 through North Devon for a unique cable which carries not the usual services like gas and water, but glass fibres. It is being put along the verges of the B road from Torrington to South Molton and is just one small section of a new high-tech transatlantic cable. Electrical signals from telephones, computers and other devices are converted into pulses of lights which are sent through the glass fibres. “We are digging a single trench from Land’s End to Taunton via Bude and through North Devon…
Proud of its Royalist heritage, Torrington was equally proud to receive a royal visitor when the Duke of Kent officially opened its new Castle Hill centre.
May Queen Joanna Down presents the Duke with a Torrington map
Pool tournament and barbecue at the Admiral Vernon, Well Street, Torrington.
One of the biggest names in British organ music will be teaming up with the celebrated Father Willis organ at Torrington Parish Church for a special concert. International organist Thomas Trotter has fitted Torrington into a busy schedule. He has performed with leading world orchestras and is an active recording artist, appearing exclusively on the Decca label since 1989.
Cottage style detached house for sale at Weare Giffard.
Former Ryder Cup player Peter Mills who was a wartime evacuee in North Devon will be remembered at a memorial service at St Margaret’s Church, Northam. Peter learned his golf at the Royal North Devon at Westward Ho! and went on to become a playing professional at Wentworth. He was a member of Le Moye in Jersey but often returned to play at the Royal North Devon and visit friends in an area he loved. A Ryder Cup team mate was Peter Alliss.
Women golfers at Westward Ho! showed true Victorian grit when they tackled a wet and windy course in long skirts, frilly blouses and boaters. Their turn-of-the-century dress was to mark the 100th anniversary of the Devon County Ladies Golf Association. More than 40 members took part in a ‘shotgun’ competition, each starting from a different tee of the links course. The Royal North Devon Golf Club boasts the oldest links course in England and when the original Devon County Ladies Club was formed in 1900 it provided nine of the 24 members and the first county ladies captain.
Margaret Cann, Lindy Sainsbury and Angela Harman
The putting green at Westward Ho! was the venue for the finale of Northam and Westward Ho! Pentecost celebrations and millennium fayre weekend. Clergy from St Margaret’s Church and Northam Methodist Church and their wives – all dressed in Edwardian costume – were joined by those from Westward Ho! Baptist Church for an open-air service of praise. Music was provided by Appledore Band and the Praise Be band. The service ended with a shared picnic.
Westward Ho! scheme gives the seafront a brand new look.
Former chapel at Winkleigh for sale.
