September 1925

Accused Persons’ Rights

An opportunity for British Families in Canada.

The Rector of Alverdiscott has received the following comments from an Exeter archaeologist and expert, which are of much interest, especially the fact disclosed – which very few of us could know – that as last as 1755 there was a preaching cross, probably in the churchyard or on the village green, in this parish. One would like to know when and why it disappeared. He cannot agree with the theory that the so-called ‘stoup’ was the upper stone of the preaching cross.

Harvest thanksgiving services were held in St Andrew’s Church at Alwington. They were, as usual, of a very bright and cheery character, and the attendance was very good in spite of wet and gloomy weather and sickness in the parish.

Bideford County Sessions granted Mr R W Crang a protection order in respect of the license of the Ship Inn, Appledore, until the next transfer day. It was mentioned that Mr Crang had held the license of the Coach and Horses for ten years.

What is described as the first winter session of Appledore British Legion was held on 14 September. Arrangements for Poppy Day and a discussion on the Relief Fund took place and it is proposed to organise a women’s branch in the village.

Alpha House, Appledore, for sale.

Household furniture and effects from Alpha House, Appledore, for sale.

The Vicar of Appledore attended the Court of the Chancellor of the Diocese, Sir Francis Newbolt, KC, at Exeter, and was sworn in as Surrogate, and hence in future the Appledorians who follow the sea will not have to go out of their town to obtain special licence for marriages.

Frank Young, 17, of 48 New Street, Appledore, whilst delivering milk for Mr F Steer, of Bidna Farm, on the steamer Smaragd slipped when getting over the rail on to the deck and caught his foot in an exhaust pipe, fracturing his ankle. He was conveyed ashore on planks and taken to Bideford Hospital where he is now making a satisfactory recovery.

Mr William Gayette, after a prolonged illness passed peacefully away at the early age of 26, leaving a young widow after only eight months of married life, he having married Miss Harriett Powe as recently as February last. He served his time as a shipwright in Messrs P K Harris and Sons, and was considered one of their best workmen among the younger staff. He lived in Market Street, Appledore. Later in the month, the funeral was reported.

News of another sad bathing fatality on the North Devon coast; in which a gallant young lady gave her life in trying to save her friend, and a mother was bravely rescued by her daughter, comes from Northam. A large party of visitors staying at Miss Popham’s, Bude Street, Appledore, went out between four and five pm on the Burrows between Appledore and Westward Ho! And proceeded to bathe just opposite the sixth hole tee of the Royal North Devon Golf Course, in the vicinity of the Pulleys. Mrs Hodgson heard the bathers shouting, and unfortunately at first thought they were only enjoying themselves but she very soon realized that they were in grave difficulties and then heard one of them shout. Four or five doctors, including Dr Martin (a visitor) and a lady, with Mr F Mortimer (Board of Trade Officer) and others, worked strenuously for a very considerable period but without result and the bod of the gallant but unfortunate lady was removed to Northam to await the inquest. PCs Uglow and Harding were early in attendance and rendered all the assistance in their power.

Miss Agnes Spry and Mr Daniel Balsdon, Beaworthy, are married.

An interesting advert from Boyle’s outfitters caught our eye. Not only do they supply clothing but also trunks – there must have been a good number of boys locally going off to boarding school.

Rev George H Crossland, MC, the newly appointed junior minister in the Bideford Wesleyan Circuit, was born in London, where he passed the early years of his life. He was educated at St Dunstan’s College, Catford, and afterwards spent seven years in a City office. He became a local preacher in 1904 and was accepted as a candidate for the Ministry from the Sydenham Circuit in 1906.

Telephone facilities of Bideford.

The original Gipsy Lee will visit for the Regatta.

Bideford Amateur Rowing Club – the South Devon Regattas.

An alarming explosion at No. 4 Queen Street, Bideford.

Hospital Sunday was observed at the Bideford Wesleyan Church by the Mayor, Corporation and representatives of the Bideford Hospital Committee attending a divine service, when a stirring appeal was made for the great work of healing by the senior circuit minister, the Rev Halstead. The civic procession left the Town Hall by way of the Quay, High Street, and Granville Street, and the return was made by the same route.

Bideford Hospital Stop Watch Scheme.

Later in the month, it was reported that the watch was wound up by the Town Clerk. The sealed package was opened by His Worship the Mayor in the Town Hall in the presence of the Town Council, and the watch was found to have stopped at 11hrs 20mins 43 secs. The winner is Miss Cole of Ruglen, Westward Ho!

Bideford and District Hospital acknowledges with thanks gifts of beans from Col M Barrett; vegetables and tomatoes, Mr Hockmeyer; flowers, Mrs Phillips; old linen and books, Miss H Turner; books and toys, Miss D Dawson; meat, Capt Hope Hall; illustrated papers, Madame O’Donovan; children’s book, Miss Luard and eggs, flowers, jellies and sugar, the Parish Church.

Bideford’s war trophy guns have been placed in position in the enclosure in front of the Devonshire Regt (Territorials) Headquarters on the Pill, and are receiving a coat of paint.

The presentation of the Charter of incorporation took place at the first annual dinner of Bideford Rotary Club, held at the New Inn Hotel. The ceremony was performed by Mr Charles E White, President of Rotary International, Britain and Ireland, who is making a tour of the West. The President of Bideford Rotary Club, Dr Toye, occupied the chair.

There was a pretty wedding at St Andrew’s Church, Stratton, when Mr Alfred Downing, of Bideford, married Miss Kathleen Ching, of Stratton.

Ernest Ashlin and Victoria Hooper are married at Bideford Baptist Church.

A very interesting wedding took place at the Wesleyan Church when Mr George Alford was married to Miss Mabel Leonard, daughter of the late Mr and Mrs William Leonard, of New Road, Bideford. The bride was given away by her brother, George, and was attended by her niece, Miss Freda Bishop. After the ceremony a happy family gathering was entertained at Southern House, the residence of the bride’s brother, Mr Ernest Leonard.

The marriage was solemnized at the Lavington Congregational Church, Bideford, in the presence of a large congregation, of Miss Dorothy Meredith, second daughter of Mr and Mrs H I Meredith, of Fernwood, Bideford, and Mr Dick May. The bride and bridegroom were the recipients of many useful and beautiful presents. Mr and Mrs May left later in the day for the East Coast, where the honeymoon is being spent.

At a meeting of Bideford Council School Managers, it was resolved to recommend to the County Education Committee that Miss H Braddick be appointed to the permanent staff at Bideford Girls’ School. At Bideford Borough Sessions, Miss F Tyson, of 1 Elmsleigh Terrace, and former nurse at Exeter, was appointed a probation officer for women and children, in succession to Nurse West.

Bideford Girl Guides.

Miss G West is thanked by Bideford and District Rescue and Preventive Association.

At a property sale at Friendship’s Hotel, R Blackmore and Sons, FAI, disposed of the freehold dwelling house No. 22 Wimborne Terrace to Mr and Mrs Burton, Royston Terrace, Abbotsham Road, for £625.

Mr Charles Bright of Bideford was knocked down by a petrol lorry in Bideford High Street during the busiest period of the day. He had just stepped off the kerb when he was hit. Fortunately, after receiving medical aid, he was able to walk away, with no more injury than severe shock and bruises. Miss Bronwen Miles, of Bridgeland Street was knocked down by a motor cyclist, Mr Chubb of Mill Street. She was thrown on to the pavement and escaped with bruises and a badly cut nose.

Motoring offences for John Matheson Mathias and Arthur James Grevatt.

For riding a bicycle along the footpath in Park Lane, Northam, Frederick Wallace Nicholls, a 19 year old labourer, of Honestone Street, Bideford, was fined 3s and 3s witness expenses at Bideford County Sessions. Mrs Lilian Redshaw, of Park Avenue, said she was looking out of her bedroom window about 3.30pm on the day mentioned, when she saw defendant riding a bicycle along the footpath leading from the Pill to Park Lane. At the time witness’s little girl was sitting on some railings in front of the house beside the path and as the bicycle came up she stepped down on to the path and the cycle knocked her over.

The Bideford steamer, ‘Leeds City’ struck an unknown reef in the Java Sea, ten miles for the Isle of Bawean, and immediately began to sink. The crew promptly entered into two lifeboats. The steamer disappeared from view within 40 minutes. The cargo was 7,500 tons of sugar for Japan.

Bideford Debating Society wound up.

The sad death occurred at Onehunga, near Auckland, New Zealand, of Mr Thomas Hookway, the second and younger son of the late Mr W B Hookway, painter of Geneva Place, Bideford.

The funeral of Mr William Thomas, Ivydene, Abbotsham Road, Bideford, took place at the East-the-Water Cemetery, the Rev W G Eeles officiating. He leaves a widow but no children.

The funeral of the late Mrs Louisa Oerton, wife of Mr T Oerton, of Grangehurst, Bideford, senior member of the firm of Toller, Oerton and Balsdon, solicitors, and mother of Mr T Oerton, Lieut Col Gerald B Oerton, T.D., and Mr Reginald Oerton (New Zealand) took place in the East-the-Water Cemetery, the Rev W N Manning, assisted by Rev T P Dimond-Hogg, officiating. A large attendance, gathered in the Cemetery Chapel and at the graveside to show respect to one who was universally loved in the district. A bell at the Parish Church was tolled during the time of the interment.

Bideford Union is asking for tenders from butchers, grocers, dairymen and drapers. The paper of 1 September gives full details of exactly what is required to meet the needs of workhouse inmates and makes interesting reading.

Anyone planning on buying new furniture has plenty of choice this month. R Blackmore & Sons auctioneers in Bideford is holding several auctions each week. One includes a mangle, an invalid’s wheel chair and 12 white leghorn hens!

With the autumn approaching, adverts from G Hopson & Son and J T White give suggestions for cosy evenings at home:

Whiteley Farm, Bradworthy, for sale.

It was reported later in the month that the Farm was purchased by Mr S Moore, the present occupier for £3,800.

Miss Beatrice Nancekivell and Mr John Gorvan are married in Bradworthy United Methodist Church.

The children of Bradworthy Council School collected £9 14s on behalf of the new children’s ward in connection with the Bideford and District Hospital.

The British Legion Branch at Bradworthy will include Putford and Sutcombe in its scope. Major Spread is the chairman, and Commander Corlett treasurer. The Secretary, Mr A Slee, has the assistance of a committee of eight.

James Henry Sanders, 65, of Bucks Mills, employed at the Loggin Wood Quarry, was admitted to Bideford Hospital with a dislocated shoulder. He was helping with the loading of one of the trucks, used to take the rough stone to the crusher, when the truck and its contents overturned on him. Dr Littlewood was summoned but on arrival he ordered Sanders to be taken to the Hospital. Mr Tritton, a visitor, kindly lent his motor car for the journey.

The funeral of Master William Stanley Thomas, son of Mr and Mrs Thomas, of Clovelly, Coastguard Station, who died after a long illness, took place at All Saints’ Church, in the presence of sympathetic parishioners. He was of a happy and bright disposition and bore his illness bravely. The Rector, Rev T L V Simkin, officiated.

The death of Frederick Headon, a fisherman of Independent Street, Clovelly, is announced. He leaves a widow and a grown-up adopted daughter, and had lived in Clovelly all his life. The greatest sympathy is felt for the relatives. The funeral was reported the following week.

Lady Baird, of Fremington House, who is now in the South of France with her 6-metre yacht, Thistle, has not only won the King of Spain’s Cup in the international race in which she was the only English competitor, but has since raced seven times and secured six first prizes and one second. Lady Baird is expected to return to North Devon towards the end of the month.

The sum of £6 10s 8d was collected by the pupils of Frithelstock School towards the children’s ward of Bideford Hospital. There were 15 collectors, and three of these were present at the presentation of purses to Lady Reardon Smith at the opening ceremony. Lots were drawn for, and the lucky numbers fell to Florrie Tucker, Joyce Johns and Maud Tallin, who transferred her number to Elsie Gordon.

At Bideford County Sessions, the magistrates granted Mr L S Kingsbury a protection order in respect to the license of the New Inn, Hartland, until the next transfer day.

Among the visitors to Hartland Parish Church this summer were the Bishop of Crediton, the Bishop of Gibraltar, and Bishops Chavasse and Talbot.

Disastrous Hartland fire creates £1,000 damage to the farm of Mr Henry Colwill.

Negotiations are underway with neighbouring councils regarding a retaining fee for help with running expenses for the Bideford engine. A report in the paper of 22 September covers this growing controversy in some detail.

Mrs Florence Cornish who died at Trew Cottages, aged 40 years, leaves four children motherless. The funeral took place at Hartland Cemetery, Pastor Trudgeon officiating. Miss E Heard was organist.

The funeral of the late Mr Charles Walter Wickett, whose sudden death at Barry, where he was headmaster of the High-street Boys’ School, took place in the United Methodist Cemetery at Hartland in the presence of a very large number of sympathizing mourners.

A picturesque wedding took place at St Nectan’s Church, Hartland, when Miss Aurelie Clay was married to Mr Cyril Tresize.

Hartland whist at the Palladium.

Collections at Instow and Appledore.

Saunton View, Instow, for sale.

Hibbert Brothers, Landcross, Bideford, give notice.

A team from Langtree parish that won first prize in the tug-of-war, confined to eight parishes in the constituency of St Giles’ Conservative fete, consisted of Messrs W Copp, P Copp, R Jones, J Vanstone, P C Huxtable, W Ayre, J Vanstone and A Ayre.

A successful prosecution on behalf of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was made by Inspector Pleavin against a Langtree farmer and his wife, for causing unnecessary suffering to a pig and for not giving it sufficient food. After a retirement the Bench found both defendants guilty, and fined them £1 each, plus 10s 6d advocate’s fee, and court expenses, or in default a month’s imprisonment. A fortnight was allowed for payment.

We regret to announce the death of Mrs A Beer, wife of Mr Arthur Beer, Ashridge Farm, Littleham, which took place after a prolonged illness patiently borne. Despite medical skill and the most tender nursing she passed peacefully away. The deceased came from London about five years since and for three years was the district nurse of Monkleigh during which she made many friends and was much respected, being ever ready and willing to render any assistance when and where needed. She had resided in Littleham parish about two years. The deceased leaves a husband and little daughter, Joyce, to mourn their loss and to whom the greatest sympathy is being extended.

The first inquest ever held on Lundy Island was conducted by Mr G W F Brown, who made the journey over in the mail boat Lerina. There being no medical attendant on the island, owing to the limited number of inhabitants, a doctor accompanied Mr Brown for the purpose of certifying the cause of death. Mr Noel Griffiths identified the body as that of his father, Capt John Griffiths, managing director of the Glynn-Cymrie Shipping Company, Cardiff.  The Coroner’s verdict would be ‘found drowned’.

Lundy news

The s.s. Lerina proceeded to Lundy Island, partially to enable the Vicar of Appledore to conduct the annual Harvest Festival Service at St Helena’s Church.

 The funeral took place at Monkleigh of Miss Agnes Short, the oldest inhabitant of the parish. Miss Short was much respected by all and a large number attended. The chief mourners were Mr Ernest Dunn, Mr and Mrs Langdo, Mrs F Essery, Mr W Essery, Mrs Down, Miss Hammett and Mr and Mrs Phillips.

Wedding of Mr Benjamin Muse and Miss Beatriz de Regil, daughter of Mrs W H Gleadell, Commons, Northam.

A meeting of the Shebbear and Newton St Petrock School Managers was held, Mr W H Griffin presiding. Eight applications were received for the headship of Newton St Petrock School, and the two candidates selected were Mrs Irving and Miss Turner.

Mr and Mrs J Osborne, of Black Torrington, who celebrated their golden wedding were parishioners of Shebbear for many years and highly respected by all.

A meeting of the Shebbear and Buckland Filleigh Sports Committee took place in the Council School, Mr J T Pett, senr. Presiding. The treasurer’s accounts showed a profit of just over £2. The funds are to be invested in the National Provincial Bank in the joint names of Messrs J T Pett and H A Earle.

Torrington’s golf club, ideally situated course.

Torrington salaries for the Clerk, Mr B T James, and Surveyor, Mr T B Fairchild.

The marriage of Miss Hannah Wightman, fourth daughter of the late Sgt-Major and Mrs Wightman, of Castle Douglas, and Mr W H Eastmond, only son of the late Mr and Mrs Eastmond, Torrington, was solemnized at the church of St Michael’s. They were the recipients of over 100 presents including cheques, a gold brooch and Jacobean set.

Thanks were accorded the Torrington Conservative Association by Torrington Guardians for inviting the inmates to their recent fete and to Capt James for gifts of pictures for the house.

A party of members of Torrington Bowling Club, including Messrs F and R Hodge was invited to Plymouth by Sir Francis Drake’s Club in honour of the fact that last year[‘s holder of the ribbon of the singles bowls championship, which is now held by a member of their club, was Mr Reginald Hodge, of the Torrington Club.

Torrington Town Council unanimously decided to support the resolution from Bideford Council protesting against the Southern Railway Company’s action in converting the Bideford and Torrington line into a branch line.

The scheme for installing gas lighting on Station Hill in Torrington instead of oil lamps has been deferred due what was considered exorbitant charges by the Gas Company.

Frank Edwarthy of Weard Giffard pleads guilty.

The Parochial Church Council have the satisfaction of being able to announce that the restoration of St Peter’s Parish Church Tower, Westleigh, and other necessary repairs have been satisfactorily completed. The total cost amounted to £231 10s, and the liability has been discharged with the cordial help and assistance of those association with the ancient Church.

The Royal North Devon Golf Club (Lords of the Manor) in conjunction with the Northam Burrows Committee, carried out another pebble pitching day to strengthen the famous Pebble Ridge. It is stated that the Lords of the Manor had not participated in this work for nearly 30 years. The members of the Golf Club who personally assisted included Capt Prideaux Brune, Major Thackwell, Major General R C Boyle, Colonel Leman, Mr Buckland, Mr V Hockmeyer, Dr J Martin, Major Newton King and Colonel G Everett.

At Bideford County Sessions Mrs Phyllis Attenborough, of Lansdowne Crescent, London was fined £1 1s for obstructing the highway in Nelson Road, Westward Ho! with her motor car, and a similar sum for failing to produce a driving licence.

Westward Ho! Art Club’s 6th annual exhibition opens this month at the Bridge Hall in Bideford with over 150 varied exhibits.

At Bideford County Police Sessions, a Woolsery application for an affiliation order was dismissed after a prolonged hearing.

September 1975

Water rationing threatened.

Accommodation land at Badgers Hill, Abbotsham, for sale.

Verses from well known hymns provided the theme of the Festival of Flowers held at St Andrew’s Church, Alwington. Organised by members of the Atlantic Flower Club, the festival raised £150 for Church funds. Ladies of the church provided light refreshments in the Old School Room for the large number of visitors.

A coffee evening at Appledore Leisure Centre – which caters all the year round for the over 60s and their friends – was well supported by visitors and local people.

A trespasser was accused of entering the house of Mrs Florence Mona McArthur at 52 The Mount, Appledore, and stealing a bottle of Martini and a tin of custard.

The Appledore built Golden Hinde replica is to leaver her San Franscisco pier for Mexico where she will star in a multi-million dollar film. On board will be crewman Mr Jan Pearce, of Northdown Road, Bideford, who worked on the vessel at Hinks’ yard, helped to sail her across the Atlantic and intends to stay with her for the foreseeable future. This news has been brought to England by Mr Dave Bray, a neighbour of Mr Pearce, who, on a visit to friends in America, lost no time in seeking him out on board the ship. The Golden Hinde has not been the rousing success in San Francisco that was anticipated, he reports. In spite of the ballyhoo that surrounded her, many Americans refuse to believe that anything so fragile could have crossed the Atlantic, and some think she merely sailed along the coast.

Should an inquiry into the Bideford by-pass question be necessary, the present programme indicated that it would be held some time during the Spring of 1977, the Department of the Environment told Mr Jeremy Thorpe, MP for North Devon.

Attendant today – queen tomorrow! Nicola Blight, of Bideford, who will lead the town’s carnival procession helps out on the pumps at her father’s garage.

Back in Bideford after 24 years in the United States is Mrs F Williams who is staying at 2 Sunnyside, East-the-Water. She will be busy during the next six weeks visiting friends and relatives. She says there are a great many changed in Bideford, but she likes them all. Mrs Williams, who is 72, emigrated to America to make her home with her daughter, Mrs R Terhune, of Detroit, who was a GI bride. Before she flies home Mrs Williams plans to contact some of her former workmates at Buckleigh Laundry where she worked for many years.

Among ex-Bidefordians ‘home’ for the regatta is Mr Archie Lock, formerly of East-the-Water, who at 86 is sprightlier than many a man at least 20 years younger.

Two Bideford Edgehill College girls are to have their work shown at a national arts and crafts exhibition in London. Helen French will display ‘Reverse Clock’ a lino cut print and Lydia Lancaster ‘Escalators’ in powder colour and wax crayons. Their art appears among 700 exhibits of paintings, drawings, sculpture and craft items selected from 30,000 etnries from artists 17 and under. Schools throughout the UK sent in entries. The exhibits were selected by a panel of art experts headed by Sir Norman Reid, director of the Tate Gallery.

Kriter II, the ocean yacht chartered by a French firm from Bideford businessman Mr Alan Smith to compete in the Clipper Race to Australia, was reported to be in the lead, 60 miles ahead of her nearest challenger Great Britain II. “Things are going pretty well” Mr Smith told the Gazette.

11 Church Walk, Bideford, for sale.

Beara Farm, Bideford.

The financial situation may have sealed the fate of Nos 16, 17 and 18 North Road, Bideford, three cottages that the conservationists have long fought to save.

Dissatisfaction was voiced at Bideford Town Council about the long delay in completing an exchange of land for allotments, providing new plots off Marland Terrace for those given up at Love Lane. A year of occupation of the land had been lost, said the Clerk, Mr Ian Hay.

Turning the clock back 55 years. From Mr Fred Taylor comes this picture of the Shamwickshire Rovers team which won the Minor League Cup in season 1920-21.

A Jeffery, A Mitchell, K Ball, C Backway, L Evans, A Bushen, W Beer, Dick Keates, T Mills, F Bater, G Gigg, B Jeffery, F Taylor, S Jeffery, P Short

The decision by the Ministry of Defence not to award a Bideford firm even part of an order for pallets with the result that 11 men have had to be thrown out of work was described as ‘absolutely disgusting’ by a local businessman. Criticising the lack of liaison between Government departments, Mr Ted Patey, managing director of Bardev Materials Handling Ltd of Kynochs, Bideford, said “The officials concerned knew Bideford is in a development area and has a high unemployment rate but it made no difference.” Mr Patey is still hoping for a reconsideration of the Ministry’s decision but he says the chances are small.

£153,000 redevelopment plan for Bull Hill, Bideford.

“Blow it, Mr Mayor!” and Mr Stan Short, Town Mayor of Bideford, makes a valiant effort to oblige. He is seen coping with the intricacies of an armful of double B flat bass, one of four new instruments just acquired by the band. The Mayor was invited to hand them over to the band at a concert held in aid of the new instruments fund.

Listening – Messrs Dennis Gibson, Eric Alford, Jack Gilbert, Derek Reed

Inspector William Matthews, of Bideford, was one of 29 Devon and Cornwall police officers who have received long service (all 22 years) and good conduct medals.

Orchard Hill Mission Church, which was opened 90 years ago, is to be closed next month, the last service being Holy Communion on Sunday, October 5. The future of the building, which can accommodate about 100, is as yet undecided. Reasons for its closure are a combination of circumstances – its structural dilapidation, lack of finance and lack of manpower.

Mr John Trigger has completed 21 years as organist of Bideford Parish Church and to mark this milestone friends of St Mary’s and St Peter’s Churches presented him with a cheque for £21. After a long period of ill health Mr Trigger has now recovered to resume fully his duties as organist and choirmaster.

The funeral has taken place at the North Devon Crematorium of Mrs Olive Matilda Babb, of Royston Road, Bideford.

Bideford’s 19^th century postman-poet, Edward Capern – “The Burns of Devon” – is to be honoured in pilgrimage style by a postman from Windsor, Mr Fred Fuzzens, for long an admirer of Capern’s writings and author of a book about him.

Later in the month, it was reported that all along the route of his pilgrimage to Buckland Brewer, he was greeted by people coming out of their homes to shake his hand and wish him well. At Buckland, children from the village school assembled to greet him and he read to them Capern’s poem ‘The Rural Postman’. Mr and Mrs Tom Boullier, of the sub-post office, entertained him to lunch.

Mr Fuzzens and Mr Bert Inglis, postmaster of Bideford Head Post Office

An interesting talk about antiques was given by Mr S R Sluman to Buckland Brewer WI at their September meeting in the Parish Hall. The social half-hour was organised by Mrs Brown and Mrs Mitchell was the tea hostess.

Farmer friends were bearers at the funeral of Mr Thomas Harris, of South View, Twitchen, Buckland Brewer.

Mrs E C Johns is quitting Thornery, Clovelly.

For a second year running Clovelly has won the title of Britain’s ‘Floral village’ in the British Tourist Authority’s Britain-in-Bloom competition. Now Clovelly and other winners will compete with their counterparts across the Channel in the first Anglo-French ‘Entente Florale’.

The South Western Electricity Board who are to close their shop at Clovelly at the end of the year were accused of having deliberately run it down at a meeting of Torridge District Council’s finance sub-committee. Cllr Michael Coles said that at one time it flourished but when a manager retired he was not replaced. “It is sad that the rural area should be deprived of this service." The Board wrote that on average the shop dealt with one consumer personally every seven hours.

Mr Jack Johns of 135 Dyke Green, Higher Clovelly, was in his garden when a neighbour told him that his house was on fire.

Frithelstock land and properties for sale.

Some of the children of the choir of St Nectan’s Parish Church, Hartland, have spent a singing holiday in the Southampton area. Their tour was based on the Church of the Holy Rood, at Hill Head, Fareham, where they sang matins, choral eucharist and evensong. They also gave concerts of traditional English church music and, in lighter mood, included a modern jazz setting of Jonah and the Whale.

Hartland Coastguards want some help.

When it comes to roses Hartland county primary school is probably in a class of its own. On coming to the school some 13 years ago, the headmaster, Mr Ted Cross, began introducing roses into the school grounds and gardens. Over the years these have been increased through the sale of garden produce and gifts until there are now around 80 specimens – all different. Now, as part of their environmental studies, the 60 children of the two top classes have a rose to observe throughout the yearly cycle.

Beckland Farm, Hartland, for sale. Later in the month it was reported that it sold for £100,000 to Mr E J Symons, of South Down Farm, Clovelly. Mr Pickard was the vendor.

Building sites off Natcott Lane, Hartland, for sale.

A whist drive was held in Hartland in aid of hospital funds. Winners were Mesdames D Rowe, Cooke, Beer, Westlake, Mr Shute, Miss Westlake, Mr Squires and Mr Allin. There were seven tables in play at a whist drive at Hartland in aid of Liberal funds. Winners were Mesdames S Prust, D Rowe, E Squires, M Beer, H Allin, J Heard, Miss R Westlake and Mr S Branton. Hartland British Legion children held a barbecue.

The shield for the best entry in Bude Carnival, plus first prize in the comical class, were won by the Northgate, Hartland, entry of ‘O-O Jack-a-Privy’s Water Works.’ The Northgate group’s entry had previously won first prize and a cup at Hartland Carnival.  

High class dwelling at Worlington, Instow, for sale.

Sir Robert Stapledon, of The Old Rectory, Littleham, who has died, spent 33 years in the Colonial Service, his last post being Governor and C-in-C of the Bahamas from which he retired in January 1964.

The funeral of Mrs Esther Vaggers of Nethercleave, Littleham, has taken place at the Methodist Church. Bearers were nephews, Messrs Gerald Friend, Morley Andrew, Morris Down and John Dennis.

Officers re-elected at the annual meeting of the Littleham Christian Youth Club were Mr Philip Pennington and Mrs D Bromhead, Susan Hockin, John Pennington and Paul Bromhead.

Miss Margaret Caddick’s last day as matron of Fairlea, Northam. She has held the post since 1962.

Mr Arthur Hodgkins, of Burrows Way, Northam, has died, and was for some years chairman of Northam Burrows Committee on which he served for a quarter of a century. For a similar period, until retirement, he had been employed by the former Northam Urban Council. For nine years, including World War II, he served as a sergeant in the RAF Police. For six years he was society steward of Northam Methodist Church.

The ashes of Mr Harold James Braund, a keen golfer, were scattered on Northam Burrows where he spent many happy hours.

So many people wished to join the mystery tour promoted by Northam and District Men’s Forum that it was decided to organise another, to follow a different route. More than 50 members, wives and friends were transported vis Simonsbath to Exford and, after an hour’s stop, on to Dulverton where tea was enjoyed. The return was via South Molton and Torrington.

Rosehill Electrical, Shebbear.

Torrington Town Council are angry that, despite their objections, Torridge District Council are proposing to sell a site near one of the decorative flower beds at South Street car park for an electricity sub-station. The Town Council suggested another site on the car park where the sub-station would be virtually out of sight and cause no obstruction or inconvenience, said the Mayor, Mr Jim Martin. Deciding to continue their objections, the Town Council are again to ask for a site meeting with the chief technical officer and the planning officer of Torridge Council.

Immediately before union convenor Mr Bill Cockram and local shop stewards went into a meeting at Torrington Unigate factory to determine whether to try to safeguard 390 jobs by preventing 128,000 gallons of milk daily reaching doorsteps, Mr Cockram said “I imagine we shall decide to have one more try to get things done peaceably.”

Torrington has been put forward as the only place in North Devon that should benefit under a suggested youth service building programme. At a meeting of Devon Education Committee the youth and community services sub-committee reported that a community centre capable of dual use by young people and adults had been suggested for the town.

Four of the younger members were in the finals at Westward Ho! Tennis Club’s finals day, proving that the club’s youth policy embarked on this year is paying off. But once again veteran Bernard Righi, a previous singles champion, also featured in the matches.

David Priddle, Barbara Payne, Julie Pincombe, Peter Clarke, Anthony Woolf, Jane Peacock, Bernard Righi

Westward Ho! WI were given a talk illustrated by slides on National Trust properties and aims. Mr Bryce, the speaker, was thanked by Mrs Owen, the president. Tea was served by Mrs Ebery and competitions were judged by the evening’s speaker. These resulted: lavender bag – Mrs Ellis, Mrs Littlejohns, Mrs Salmons; flower of the month – Mrs Blackmore, Mrs Woodcraft, Mrs Salmons. Raffle given by Mrs Olde was won by Mrs Salmons.

Purchasers of new property on a six-acre estate at Westward Ho! will also have a share in the amenities which will be provided, including a swimming pool. The development is at College Close …

Since their school pool was opened in June, 17 children of Woolsery county primary school have learned to swim and gained beginners’ certificates. Right from its opening the pool has been in use every school day as well as afternoons during the holidays. It was a real success story, said the headmaster, Mr Richard Chamings. “We are absolutely delighted with the pool and the children’s successes, and of course with the response of parents who were absolutely magnificent in working to get a pool for the school.” Praising the work of the Friends of Woolsery School Association, Mr Chamings particularly mentioned the leadership of Mr John Downes.

 September 2000

Pump Lane in Abbotsham once more lives up to its name with the return of a water pump there after more than 30 years. The old pump fell into disuse after the arrival of mains water and was removed in the 1960s. But is has been missed as a focal point at the entrance to the lane, especially by oldest resident Bill Hockin. As a millennium gift to the village the Hockin family has provided and installed a replacement.

Bill with his son and daughter

Modern riverside property – Irsha Street, Appledore.

Investment opportunity in Appledore.

For the first time in generation Bideford is without a fairground for its annual carnival and regatta week celebrations. Disappointment at the lack of this traditional attraction has led to calls for negotiations between local authorities and fairground owners to find a way of bringing it back. Fairground operator Tommy Rowland said his family had visited Bideford regatta for generations and were very disappointed. Regatta committee chairman Ken Hearn said quite a few people had complained to him about the lack of a fair. Town mayor Cllr Noel Deakes also expressed disappointment. A district council spokesman pointed out that the council had not increased its charges. “Nothing has changed, we are charging the same rent for the same period on the same site.”

Space age for the carnival.

Ladies Circle go intergalactic

The Tucker family go on an aliens day out

Jo Howson will be exchanging her car for a canoe when she tackles the waters of the great River Amazon in a fundraising expedition for charity. It may be a bit more gruelling than Jo’s last big journey – a trek across China which included tackling the Great Wall. Jo, a quality assurance manager from Bideford, is one of 1,500 people who have signed up to the Global Charity Challenges programme. Jo has another tough task between now and September. She has to raise £2,000 sponsorship to take part in the trip.

A smoother and quieter surface is in prospect for the busy A39 road between Fairy Cross and Waytown near Bideford. But motorists will have to be patient as two months of work is carried out on the carriageway.

Anglo American Vulcanised Fibre of Clovelly Road, Bideford, is hit by skills shortage.

Staff at Pollyfield Centre at East-the-Water, Bideford, could hardly believe their eyes when they saw what was dumped outside the social centre. It was no optical illusion. What caught their eye was a large cast-metal telescope – the coin-in-the-slot variety often seen seaside promenades. “We have reported it to the police, who have checked that it is not from our nearest resort of Westward Ho!” said the club’s social club chairman John McKenzie.

Plans for the biggest new housing development in Bideford’s recent history are to be revealed at a public exhibition in the town. It will show concept proposals in a development brief by M Baker (Property Services) Ltd of Exeter for up to 950 homes straddling the East-the-Water Industrial Link Road, which is currently under construction. The exhibition will show an initial layout for 28 hectares of land at Salterns. It includes between 750-950 homes; a site for a possible primary school; playing fields; and open space, including conservation and wilderness areas.

The Old Coach Inn, Market Place, Bideford.

Victoria Park Bowling Club in Bideford celebrated its golden jubilee and the occasion was marked by a visit from Torridge and West Devon Liberal Democrat MP John Burnett, who bowled the first wood in a celebration match.

Members of the Bideford and Instow Railway Group welcome the arrival of a diesel locomotive at the former Bideford Station. The arrival of their first loco is a milestone for the railway enthusiasts who already have a variety of carriages and a railway museum set up at the site. The diesel was brought to Bideford from South Wales by a splinter group of local enthusiasts who formed the Torridge Diesel Locomotive Company.

A neglected plot of land near the primary school at Bradworthy is to be transformed into a focal point for the village thanks to a grant of £2,000 from the Hanson Environmental Fund. It will go a long way towards paying for the creation of a millennium garden.

Buckland Brewer property for sale.

Eighty Torridge youngsters enjoyed a special day out at The Milky Way Adventure Park at Clovelly. The treat was also a ‘thank you’ to the volunteer helpers of the Homestart project, based in Bideford.

Scuba divers on holiday in North Devon who lost their gear in the sea are appealing to whoever first came upon one item washed up at Clovelly – a bin bag. A wave hit their boat as they crossed Bideford Bar heading for Lundy. Their clothes were in two black plastic bin bags and were swept away. Their delight when the police told them one of the waterlogged bags had been found on the beach was soon dashed. Because in it had been several hundred pounds and it was gone. “It was our holiday money and had been tucked in the pocket of a pair of jeans for safety. We’re just hoping that whoever took it will have a twinge of conscience and return it” said a member of the party.

A flag now flies proudly over the Byeways Bowling Club in Fremington. It marks the club’s autonomy since taking on the lease of its green and facilities from the parish council. The occasion was marked by a dedication ceremony performed by the Vicar of Fremington, the Rev Paul Hockey. Club chairman Roy Hall said “When we formed the club five years it did belong to the parish council. Only in the past two yeas have we gained full agreement for the club to take over. Now we have a flag of our own.” Members watched as greenkeeper Ted Baldwin raised for the first time the flag carrying the club logo of Tarka the Otter.

Rev Hockey, Ron Ellison, Roy Hall, Penny Baldwin, Des Symons and Doreen Watts

A Fremington grandmother has been chosen as the community’s first Citizen of the Year. The award has been presented to Mrs Maureen Hockridge who has run the Beechfield Youth Club for nearly seven years and is also a leader with the local St John Ambulance Badgers and a volunteer Lollipop Lady.

The bravery of a Hartland coastguard is being recognised with a double award presentation in the village. Auxiliary coastguard Jonathan Tape will receive the Chief Coastguard’s Commendation and a Royal Humane Society award for his action a year ago in saving a man from a cliff ledge. The Chief Coastguard’s Commendation is also being presented to the whole of the Hartland Coast Response Team. The award ceremony will take place at Hartland Royal British Legion Club.

Final releases at Lilybridge, Northam.

Making equestrian history together are a nine year old Northam rider and her mount who have qualified for the Horse of the Year Show at Wembley. Pony Toya Tinkerbell is owned by Sally Jobson-Scott and is ridden by her daughter, Vanessa – winner of more than 30 championships with her four-legged friend.

Two Northam ‘water babies’ – Lydia Cawsey and Sam Mead. And, four other achievers – Amy Gooding, Sarah Gardener, Michelle Dymond and Sam Petty.

Even the landlord will be among former pupils of Parkham Primary School when they hold a reunion at the Coach and Horses in Horns Cross. Mine host Martin Wonnacott is eighth from the left in the front row of the smiling line-up of 40 years ago. He expects many of the school’s old pupils will turn up for the reunion. “Most still live around here” said Martin whose sister Marilyn is also in the picture. Sadly, the school’s two teachers Mrs Thomas and Mrs James are no longer alive.

Mayor of Torrington Cllr Bernie Wittram was joined by friends in a colourful weekend walk for charity. Dressed as zany television characters The Simpsons they walked from Torrington to Barnstaple, stopping off to meet other North Devon mayors en route. Our picture shows the group at Bideford, where the mayor, Cllr Noel Deakes, carefully refused a bulky brown envelope offered by Mr Wittram dressed at the dubious Simpsons character Mayor Quimby. Then it was off to Northam to meet the mayor Cllr Andrew Eastman before boarding a boat to Instow. It is hoped to have raised £1,000 for the Mayor of Torrington’s Appeal fund. Mr Wittram was joined by Jerry Symons, Linda Davis, Chris Tattersall, Linda Lidster, Alistair Kimber, Graham Brown, Brian Pitts and Dave Gibbons.

Pupils of Great Torrington Community School will be going to the cinema to see Grease next month. It will be the first of a series of after-school visits to the pictures at The Plough Arts centre thanks to a grant won by the school’s English department. The idea is to encourage the pupils to watch films they would not ordinarily go to see to increase their knowledge of media terminology. Discussion groups will be held after each visit. “There is the possibility that this project will become a benchmark for similar projects nationwide and we are very excited about it,” said head of English, Gill Clayton.

Few among the thousands watching the Great Fire of London on Torrington Commons knew that at the heart of the inferno some unique memories were being made. ‘Cooking’ in a shallow pit were 32 small pots inscribed ‘Fired in the Great Torrington Bonfire 2000’. They are the work of potter Helen Bailes who has a shop in Torrington market and who took up the suggestion of having a go at firing them. The two biggest pots have already been earmarked, one for Torrington Museum and the other for a fund-raising charity raffle.

Ocean Park, Westward Ho!

Four new flats for older people being built in Westward Ho! are nearing completion. The development in the grounds of The Chalet residential care home will provide four one-bedroomed self contained flats, each for two people. Cost of the project being built by Pearce Construction is put at £163k and was partly paid for by a social housing grant from the Housing Corporation.

Winkleigh Open Day.

Phoenix-like a new power station is getting set to rise from the ashes of the old one at Yelland beside the River Taw estuary. It would burn natural gas. It would take up less than half the space of the old station and it could be working by 2004. The ‘Yelland Energy Centre’ costing £200 million is proposed by Rolls Royce Ventures Ltd on a five-acre site.