November 1925
Births – to Mr and Mrs H W Elliott, a daughter; at 3 Tower Street, a son to the wife of Mr Reginald Lake; to Mr and Mrs Symons, Allhalland Street, a daughter;
Marriages – Thomas Wyndham Lang and Emily Heywood; Frederick Johns and Gertrude French at Bucks Mills;
With profound sorrow the whole nation will learn of the death of Queen Alexandra, who for over 62 years, as Princess, as Queen, and as widowed Queen-Mother, had held a place of peculiar affection in the hearts of the whole British people. It is not too much to say that in the 24 hours that passed between the first news of her critical condition and the end, the thoughts of countless millions, not in this land alone, were with the King as he stood by his mother’s death bed at Sandringham.
Later in the month …
North Devon Fire Brigades – rural councils’ gesture to Bideford.
Train alterations between Barnstaple and Torrington.
The men and women’s section of the British Legion marched to Abbotsham Parish Church, where the Rev W N Manning preached. The service was conducted by Canon Kempe. Special psalms and hymns were rendered and at the close two buglers sounded Last Post. Wreaths were placed at the memorial cross by Mr W James and Mrs Sealy. In the evening Miss Sealy’s concert party gave some choice selections of sacred music.
The funeral of Mrs Becklake, a former resident of Alwington parish, took place, the Rector, Rev H C Spring, officiating. The chief mourners were her son, Mr Elam Becklake and Mrs J Daniel (Torrington), daughter. Many other relatives and friends attended besides several old friends and neighbours of Alwington, Littleham and Parkham.
The death of Lieutenant Henry Johnson Mason, RNVR, of Bramfield House, and formerly of Portledge.
Owing to the tempestuous weather, the United Armistice Service which was to have been held around the Appledore War Memorial had to be held in the parish church of St Mary’s, there being an overflowing congregation.
The Vicar of Appledore, Rev Muller, as chairman of the Appledore Church Mixed and Infants School, presented Mr Oatway, the senior male assistant master, with a beautiful Onoto fountain pen on behalf of Mr Parsons, the Headmaster, the staff, Miss Guy and Miss Rose, and the senior scholars, as a mark of respect and farewell on his leaving the School to take over the Headmastership of the Church of England School at High Bickington.
A new flagstaff given to the Seamen’s Mission, Appledore.
At Bideford County Sessions, Mr Percy Burbridge of West Appledore, was summoned for that he, being the owner of a dangerous dog, failed to keep it under proper control. Inspector Parr said defendant not having seen fit to comply with the request of the police to keep the dog under control, if he refused to do so, he (the Inspector) respectfully submitted that it was a case in which the dog should be destroyed.
Remarking that it was a most extraordinary thing that a cargo of apples should be capable of forming a gas which in a few moments might prove fatal, Mr Ernest Hutchings adjourned for a month the inquest on the body of Mr Thomas Victor Rees of Irsha Street, Appledore, mate of the s.s. Orchiis, whose death occurred under tragic circumstances. Addressing Captain Rees, the Coroner expressed his sincere sympathy with him and other relatives. In the interests of men like himself he would see it was only right that they should inquire very carefully into the cause of this gas in order to prevent happenings of this kind in the future.
The funeral of Miss Belle Bignell took place at St Mary’s Churchyard, Appledore, the Vicar officiating. Miss Bignell was the daughter of the late Captain John Short Bignell, Master Mariner, who was lost with all hands in the Baltic in 1861 whilst in charge of the large schooner Vokett, and with him perished his brother Mr Stephen Bignell, his eldest son, Mr William Short Bignell, and Mr W Marshall, all of Appledore. The deceased was brought up by her widowed mother, and her younger brother, Mr Stephen Bignell is the present vice-coxswain of the motor lifeboat.
Death of Mr William Leverton, JP, CC, at his home Woolleigh Barton, Beaford.
Mr W J Slee offered for sale at the Globe Hotel, several fields situated in the parish of Beaford. Lot 1, a meadow was sold for £185 to Mr A Squire; Lot 2, four fields went to Mr W E Heard.
E H Hopcraft, 1 Mill Street, Bideford – addition of Ladies’ Saloon.
G Hopson & Son, 24 Mill Street, Bideford – the Nersag Mattress Support.
Posting Stables, Orchard Hill, near Bideford – horses, carriages, carts, harness, implements for sale by auction.
A Christmas treat for the children of Bideford.
Mr H W Huxham, of Bideford, has been appointed specialist judge of Scandaroon pigeons at the Palace.
Bideford Baptists at the conclusion of their bazaar had the satisfaction of learning that the debt of £142 3s 3d on the Hillgarden property had been completely wiped out with about £10 over. The success was due to the loyal cooperation of Church workers, who prepared an attractive array of stalls and tastefully decorated the Assembly Hall, where the sale of work was held. The opening ceremony, performed by Mr and Mrs R M Rowe of Ilfracombe, was presided over by Mr F T Upton, JP.
At the close of Bideford Borough Sessions, the Mayor, Dr E J Toye, mentioned that as that was the last occasion he should be presiding as chief magistrate, he wished to express his thanks to the Clerk, Mr T A Goaman, and all the officials concerned, for their assistance in the conduct of the business of the court, and which had perhaps given him sometimes the appearance of greater legal erudition than he could claim.
Alderman W T Goaman expressed the pleasure and honour it gave him to propose the election of Alderman Metherell, and mentioned that it was only after some amount of pressure by his colleagues that their good friend was prevailed upon to allow his name to be submitted to the full Council. They realized that although he had filled the office with dignity on two occasions some nineteen or twenty years ago, yet he had done so much public work and had made such sacrifices, material and physical, for the sake of the borough and the district and the county that they felt they would be doing the town an honour and Mr Metherell an honour if they made him Mayor for the third time of this historic town.
Bideford’s new Mayor, Alderman J M Metherell, JP, CA.
A few members of Bideford Swimming Club visited Mr and Mrs Jack Bale, in their new home, and Dr M W Littlewood (captain) in a few well chosen words asked them to accept a small oak table from the members of the Club as a wedding gift.
Mr John Duxbury, a clever elocutionist, gave two recitals in the Bideford Assembly under the auspices of the Bideford and Wesleyan and Baptist Recreation Club. Both recitals were particularly well attended, and Mr Duxbury was given a great ovation. The chair was occupied in the afternoon by Alderman John Cock.
Bideford Borough Magistrates on the application of Mr O W Ward granted Mr J T Miller, of the New Inn Hotel, an extension until 11pm on the occasion of the Mayor’s banquet on November 11th.
Considerable interest was taken in an alleged poaching prosecution which came before Bideford Borough Magistrates and was dismissed after a hearing extending to nearly two hours, though the Bench expressed the opinion that the police were perfectly justified in bringing the case forward. Frederick Charles Nicholls, tailor, of Honestone Street, was summoned to put it briefly, for having been found in possession of rabbits which it was alleged he had poached.
The marriage was solemnized at the United Methodist Church, Bideford, of Miss Annie Cleave, daughter of Mr and Mrs Cleave, of Sunningdale, Abbotsham Road, Bideford, and Mr Alec James Luxton.
Her many friends will learn with great regret of the death in Guy’s Hospital, of Miss Mabel Wheeler, elder daughter of Mr G J D Wheeler, of Victoria House, Clovelly-road, Bideford. Much sympathy was felt for the bereaved relatives of Mr Fred Squire when news reached Beaford of his death at the Devon and Exeter Hospital after a long illness. Mr Squire had lived in the parish for several years and was held in highest respect by all who knew him. The funeral was solemnized, Rev H Hannam officiating in the absence of Rev A Goldring. Death of Mr H Deighton Pearson, brother of Dr Ellis Pearson, of the Strand, Bideford.
The funeral took place, the Rev W G Eeles, of Mrs Margaret Verren, of the old King of Prussia house, New-street, Bideford. Mrs Verren was landlady for 45 years prior to its closing about twelve years ago. A licence for selling beer had been held for 300 years previous. The bearers were six nephews and great nephews, Messrs John Verren, J Verren jnr, William Verren, Albert Verren, Fred Verren and Bert Verren.
The late Mr T Andrew, Devonia, Clovelly Road, Bideford.
One of Bideford’s oldest and most respected inhabitants passed peacefully away at 6 New Street, Bideford, in the person of Nurse Rounsfille at the age of 89. Of a most kindly disposition, she was greatly beloved by a very wide circle of friends. She leaves two sons, Messrs W Davis and J Davis, JP, and a daughter, Mrs J Brayley, to mourn their loss.
The Bradworthy Parish Church harvest festival proved highly successful. In the week the preacher was the Rev Buncombe, whilst the services were conducted by Rev A E Dobson, Vicar, and Rev C D Jenkins (Putford). There were large congregations at the services.
Bradworthy news.
The death of Mr John Harding, an old and respected parishioner, took place at Kilkhampton. He was greatly interested in the local United Methodist Church, holding some of the offices connected with it for nearly fifty years. The interment took place in the Free Church Cemetery.
At Bradworthy, the temperance section of the Young People’s Guild were responsible for the programme in the Wesleyan Church, the organisers being Messrs F Chubb, B Wade and G Martin. Mr A W Everson presided. Recitations were given by J Cann, P Petherick, J Gorrell, V Ham, M Cornish, M Dunstan and J Butler. Miss Brown also gave a recitation and Miss Mitchell a solo. A lantern lecture ‘Water the Wonderful’ illustrated by lantern slides terminated in a successful session, Mr Dunstan presided at the organ.
An unusual question arose at the meeting of the Devon Education Committee, Mr J S C Davis presiding, relative to an application from Bradworthy School managers that the children attending that school should be permitted to attend a united service at the memorial on Armistice Day. There was a general feeling that the application should be granted.
Mr Higgs: Is this an instruction that they are to be allowed to go? Yes.
The opening meeting of the Young People’s Guild was held in the Bradworthy Wesleyan Church. Mr T Burrow presiding over a large congregation. Solos were rendered by Miss E Butler and Mr H J Wickett, the accompanists being Miss F Martin and Mr S Wickett. On Oct 15th, the Bradworthy branch of the British Legion invited the Hartland Branch to a dinner and social evening. Between 30 and 40 members availed themselves of the opportunity being conveyed there by the local buses. A very enjoyable evening was spent. A party from Holsworthy provided the programme of songs, etc.
A splendid evidence of the interest taken in Temperance work was shown by a large attendance at a meeting of the Temperance Society held in the Buckland Brewer United Methodist Chapel. Mr A Galsworthy, of Appledore, presided.
Little Collins Down and part of South Collins Down, Buckland Brewer, for sale by auction.
Buckland Brewer properties for sale including Veilstone and Horestone,
Messrs W J Slee and Son sold the freehold farm, Veilston, Buckland Brewer, to Mr Poole of Alwington for £3,000 for Mr Westaway. Included in the sale was a smallholding Horestone which sold to M F Osborn, Lower Colley, Frithelstock, three fields purchased by Mr Poole, and pasture and marsh land was withdrawn.
Bucks Mills news.
Clovelly Armistice.
Widespread sympathy has been extended to Mr Eli Whitlock and family on the death of Mrs Ann Whitlock, after a long and painful illness. Deceased, by her kindly sympathetic manner, had endeared herself to the whole parish. The funeral took place at the new cemetery, preceded by a service at the Baptist Church conducted by Rev E P Groom.
At Frithelstock, the work of widening the road from the school to Horwood Barton is now well in hand.
A successful whist drive and dance at Frithelstock.
Mrs J Hearn, Huskill House, Frithelstock, gets help with her lumbago.
Great interest was taken in the marriage solemnized at Hartland United Methodist Church of Mr Charles Jeffery, of Gorvin, Hartland, and Margaret, eldest daughter of Mr Thomas Bromell, of Trew, Hartland. The Revs F Dennis and Trudgeon were the officiating ministers. Miss E Hearn was the organ accompanist.
Nurse Maynard has been succeeded by Nurse Gribble from the Training Centre. PC Arthur Tonkin arrived from Ashburton to succeed PC Charles Crook, who removed to Dunkerswell. An unfortunate accident befell the two year old son of Mr Richard Johns, of Mill Hill, when he fell on a nail piercing his chin. Mr Charles Colwill, of Welsford, broke his leg below the knee, through a mishap to the barn machinery belting. Dr Kay, who was soon in attendance, found it was a clean fracture and an early recovery is expected.
The men’s club at the Hartland Church Room held its first whist drive for the season. Mr J A Burrow acted as MC when the winners were: Mr Edward Heard, Mr John Prouse of Abbey Stables, Mr Charles William Nichol, Messrs Fred Pyne, Stanley Walter and Ambrose Walter. Mr John Colwill presented the prizes. Mr Ernest Rowe was MC for the dance for which Mrs T Prouse and Miss B Pillman were the pianists. Refreshments were served by Misses Lottie Burrow, E Heywood and F Colwill.
During the high tides the waves broke over the sea wall at Instow.
The marriage of Mr George Redvers Gear and Miss Florence Emily Huxtable, of Lower Huish Farm, Instow.
We regret to announce the death, which took place suddenly at Instow, of Mrs Mary Stuart Brodie, widow of the late Dr Ewan Brodie, of Glasgow and mother of Nina Critchley-Salmonson. The funeral took place in Scotland but there will be a memorial service in Instow Parish Church.
At the weekly muster of the British Red Cross Society at Instow, the Assistant County Director presented certificates to the members who passed their examinations in First Aid. Mrs Harvey was the happy recipient of a war service medal.
Littleham properties for sale – Mount Pleasant.
Littleham whist drive and dance.
Mr Andrew Harman, a brother of Mr Martin Coles Harman, the new owner of Lundy Island, has been killed in a motor car accident in Southern India. Lieut A Sleep RN, in charge of the Admiralty Detachment doing Lloyds Signal work on Lundy Island, has received his full commission as Lieut in His Majesty’s Royal Navy and has been congratulated by all on his well deserved promotion. He is a native of Saltash and has worked his way up from the bottom of the ladder after many years of faithful service.
The Vicar of Appledore held a couple of services in St Helena’s Church, Lundy.
An exciting time in landing s.s. Lerina at Lundy Island.
Merton news.
Household furniture to be sold by Mr Reuben Arnold at Monkleigh.
During an interval in the Liberal whist drive and dance held at the Schoolrooms, Northam, Mrs Keene of Westward Ho! on behalf of the Liberal Club presented Miss B M Barrow, of Bideford, with a black patent leather handbag and a gold brooch, in appreciation of her services as president of the Club for three years.
Northam remembers.
The new Telephone Exchange at Northam was visited by Major General Sir Murray Irwin and several members of the Northam Urban District Council. The new apparatus and methods of operating were explained to the Council by the Chief Traffic Superintendent, Telephones, Exeters, and the Chief Inspector of the North Devon area. At their subsequent Council meeting the Council thanked Mr J D Herridge, the Bideford Postmaster, for inviting them to the inspection, which had been most interesting.
What might have proved a serious fire, if it had occurred later in the evening, broke out in the nursery of Chircombe House, Northam. The Captain of the Bideford Fire Brigade received a call about 8pm and went to Northam with another fireman, where they extinguished the fire with buckets of water. The outbreak originated in the joist underneath the hearth.
Bideford County Magistrates granted the licensee of the Kings Head Hotel an extension from 10 to 11pm on Friday, Nov, 27th, the occasion of Northam Golf Club Supper.
On behalf of the funds of Bideford and District Hospital a very successful ‘pound’ effort is being made at Northam. Through the kindness of Mr Kingsley Wood and Miss Warrant the schools contributed 240 pounds of groceries, vegetables, etc. The general public has responded generously to the appeal, and further contributions would be gratefully received and forwarded to the Hospital by Miss Davis, the Post Office, Northam.
Death of Major-General Bunbury, Chope Barton, Northam.
The funeral of Mrs Catherine Ann Hearn, wife of Charles Hearn, of Cross Street, Northam, took place at the Northam Churchyard, Mr A Green officiating. The first portion of the service was held at the Congregational Chapel. Miss D Hearn was the organist. We regret to announce the death, which took place suddenly, at Merida, Yucatan, Mexico, of Mrs Katherine Gleadell the wife of Capt W Gleadell, of Commons, Northam. The funeral took place at Northam Churchyard of Mrs Eliza Littlejohns, of Cross-street, Northam, widow of the late Mr John Littlejohns. Deceased was held in great respect as we shown by the attendance at the funeral, close on 100 attending. Mrs Ashplant was the organist.
On Armistice Sunday the ex-Service men met at the Old Manor Gate and formed in procession under the command of Admiral Wilson and Commander Douton. Led by the Parkham Band, they marched to the Parish Church for divine service, which was taken by the Rector. Admiral Wilson gave a brief address and the Last Post and Reveille were given by C Harding and M Honey. Reforming up on the green, the ex-Service men marched to Culver Park where they were dismissed. Two wreaths were placed on the memorial by Mr F Ley and Mr C James.
At Bideford County Sessions, Mr Bryan Bromhead, farm baliff, of Lower Melbury Farm, Parkham, pleaded guilty to an offence under the sheep Dipping Regulations by failing to notify the arrival of sheep or producing a certificate of double-dipping. Inspector Parr …
Lower Dundridge, Parkham, for sale by auction.
At Parkham, the Rector and Mrs Hensley very kindly entertained the children and staff of the Council School to tea at the Rectory on Armistice Day.
At Shebbear, road-users express great satisfaction that the dangerous corner at Lower Allacott Gate, near Dipper Mill, is being taken off.
Shebbear news.
Mr Harry Vaggers, of Littleham, and Miss Esther Hunkin, of Coombe Farm, Torrington, are married.
Election of new Torrington Mayor.
The new Mayor of Torrington, Councillor C Popham, JP
Mr Robert Sandford, of South Street, Torrington, writes to a contemporary: “In your report of the conference on land policy in Exeter one paragraph reads:-
At Torrington Police Court, a man was sentenced to six weeks’ imprisonment for neglecting to pay towards the maintenance of his wife, under an order made in December 1924. The arrears amounted to £9 15s. At a juvenile sitting of Torrington Borough Magistrates, three boys were summoned for damaging a shed in Rack Park, the property of the Town Trust.
Torrington Hospital dance was largely attended. The result of the prize ballot was: Bromell, sewing machine; Parker, camera; Mitchell, cycle; Brooks, costume. Other prizes went to Miss B Lake, Mrs E Quick, Mrs C Vodden, Mr G Gilbert, Mrs Turvey and Mrs Bridgman.
Mr Charles Hutchings of Well Street, Torrington, who passed away at the age of 75 years, was a man held in high respect. He was a staunch Churchman, a member of the Church choir for 45 years, a ringer and sidesman of the Church for many years, a prominent member of the Bowling Club, and a very active participant in all kinds of sport. For twenty five years he was a colour sergeant in the old Volunteer Regiment.
Cross House, Little Torrington – household furniture and other effects for sale by auction.
Change of name for Weare Gifford.
The Weare Gifford road.
The will of Dr Joseph Bower Siddall, of Oriel House, Malvern, late president of the Royal North Devon Golf Club and founder of the Union Club, Westward Ho!
The Still Cup won by Westward Ho! Ladies.
In the Royal North Devon Golf Monthly competition at Westward Ho!, Lieut Colonel Lord Seymour won in the senior class and Brigadier General R C Boyle in the junior class.
It was reported that Lieut Montague Prior, son of Mr R C Prior, of Westward Ho! had been mentioned in despatches for distinguished services in South Africa.
The public examination in bankruptcy was concluded before the registrar, Mr C E Roberts, of a guest house proprietress, of Ward House, Winkleigh, whose deficiency was £165 on liabilities expected to rank £198.
At Winkleigh, the wife of Mr J Crocker, of a son, and the wife of Mr H Ware, of a daughter.
A very successful whist drive and dance was held in the Woolsery Vicarage schoolroom.
To mark their appreciation of the services of the Rev G L Edwards, who has been vicar of Woolsery for the past three years and is now leaving to take over the living of Lamerton, South Devon. Miss Mabel Short, the organist, on behalf of the parishioners, presented Mr Edwards with a handsome Westminster Chimes clock, a cheque, a framed list of subscribers. Mr Edwards suitably acknowledged the gifts. Mr F W Ridd, parish warden, wishes to thank all those who subscribed to the presentation.
Later in the month - Rev G L Edwards, who succeeded Rev A C Evans, as vicar of Lamerton, has been instituted by the Bishop of Exeter and inducted into that living by the Archdeacon, Ven W F Sturtees, in the parish church of St Peter.
November 1975
A new standard for the Torrington branch of the Royal British Legion was dedicated when United Remembrance services were held in Torridgeside towns and villages.
Mr G Winter of Abbotsham takes top placings.
Mrs Audrey Colwill, of 2 Victoria Crescent, Appledore, will be seen as a contestant on Westward TV’s Treasure Hunt. The programme was pre-recorded but Mrs Colwill is keeping secret how she fared.
Miss Margaret Russell, of Appledore, is still active at 102!
Appledore inshore rescue boat was alerted when red flares were seen off Braunton Hill. But the call was listed as a false alarm with good intent after it was discovered that a farmer at West Down had been enjoying a preliminary celebration of November 5 by discharging some old flares.
The link that has been forged between a Royal Air Force station in Germany and the Appledore branch of the RNLI will be strengthened with the presentation of the station’s plaque which the RAF personnel hope will be hung in the lifeboat house at Appledore. It was with money raised by men and women at RAF Wildenrath that the RNLI purchased the Atlantic-type inshore rescue boat that has done such valuable work since being stationed at Appledore. The plaque was brought back to this country by Mr Phil Day, Editor of the Bideford Gazette, following a visit to RAF Headquarters in Germany and to Wildenrath. The six members of the Appledore lifeboat crew who operate the IRB are Messrs Eric Wartnaby, Brian Williams, Roger Risher, Jack Wills, Cliff Edwards and Ray Harkness, who all work at Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd. The craft is nicknamed ‘Wizzer’.
Sqn Ldr Roger Adams and Mr Phil Day
The men who crew Appledore’s IRB
‘No’ to Western Avenue, Appledore, phone kiosk request.
Sunday School children of St Mary’s Church, Appledore, were given sunflower seeds to plant in spring. As the plants grew they were sponsored by the foot in aid of The Children’s Society and altogether £32.40 was raised. The tallest sunflower was grown by Paul Blackmore and Julie White’s £13 was the most collected from sponsors.
Idea for walk and picnic area at Appledore outlined.
What is described as a festival of old Appledore is being centred on Appledore Church Hall, with the help of Beaford Centre, next month. The Vicar, Rev Donald Peyton Jones, says that photographs, pictures, craftwork and models will be on display from December 2. He hopes local people will loan any interesting material they have about the life and work of the township past and present.
A strong denial that there was any trouble between netsmen and anglers in the Taw and Torridge estuary came from Mr Des Cox, who is coxswain of Appledore lifeboat. And in doing so he accused certain members of Northam Urban Council of ‘talking through their hats.’ He commented; ‘instead of talking nonsense they should talk common sense, but really it is nothing at all to do with Northam Council. The netsmen and anglers have generally got along very well together and if things are left to us it will stay that way.’
Horses being ridden in Anchor Park, Appledore, were a danger to children claimed Appledore Conservation Committee in a report to Northam Council. When it was reported that little jumps had apparently been put up by pony riders, the Mayor, Mrs Galliford, commented “I think it is very dangerous.” It was not the purpose for which the park was intended, said Mr R Evers. At the request of the Conservation Committee the complaint is being referred to Torridge District Council.
An oak tree donated by farmer Mr T Bellew was felled and cut into logs by members of East-the-Water Community Action Group, who them distributed them to old age pensioners with open fires.
Bideford police are investigating the desecration of the war memorial at Chudleigh Fort, East-the-Water. It was discovered that, as one Legion member described it, “a gang of hooligans had gone through the place like a swarm of locusts. It really was a shambles. Poppies had been pulled from wreaths and thrown all over the place.” To the best of their ability members remade the wreaths and put them back on the memorial.
Incentive offered by Braddicks.
For a second time in 12 years and against worldwide competition, Bideford magician Ian Adair has won the major international award for inventing the best trick of the year. Mr Adair, author of over 55 books on conjuring, said he was most surprised, on returning home from a birthday party engagement, to find a large insured parcel awaiting him. It contained a silver statue depicting an old time magician holding a wand, with a bag of tricks strapped around his waist. “I had no prior knowledge of having won the award … there it was, on my doorstep,” said Mr Adair.
Mr Edwin Hooper, managing director of The Supreme Magic Co Ltd solves it.
‘Cabbages ahoy!’ is not the nautical shout normally heard on board ship but the youngsters at the wheel could well have been forgiven for an imaginative call of this kind when Bideford unit of the Sea Cadet Corps held a sale at their headquarters to raise funds. The event was organised by the Parents and Supporters Association, and raised £70.
After months of having to travel to Barnstaple for their weekly parade nights, members of the Bideford detachment of the Devon Army Cadet Force were back on home ground. Their new headquarters in the grounds of Bideford School were officially opened by the Mayor of Bideford, Mr Stan Short, who referred to the part the unit could play in the community life of the town. The new headquarters, a modified mobile classroom provided by Devon County Council, replaces the two old buildings housing the unit which were removed in the school extension plans.
Toy Works of Bideford are to begin operations in Ilfracombe, North Devon’s employment blackspot, in the New Year. To begin with 43 to 45 people will be making miniature billiard tables at the factory formerly occupied by Bonas Tapes Ltd, and it is planned to increase the labour force to 150 in three years. Later in the month …
A bridge, built by Laminated Wood Ltd, of Bideford, is towed to Tintagel.
Time continues to stand still on the face of the large iron clock suspended from the old post office building, now the Co-op in Bideford’s High Street. A request that it should be restored to working order, made at the annual parish meeting at Bideford, has founded on the rocks of cost.
Conservationists are to make a last ditch stand at the next meeting of Torridge District Council in their battle to preserve Bull Hill, Bideford. Before the council will be a recommendation of their Policy and Resources Committee that a £153,000 redevelopment scheme be adopted for the area. On behalf of 1,219 people who signed a ‘save Bull Hill’ petition, Mr Michael Omejer has lobbied every member of the council. Later in the month,
New almshouses planned at Bideford.
Another £1,500 given away by Bideford Bridge Trust.
For a second successive year Bideford Town Band won promotion at the annual competitions of the South West Brass Band Association, held at Paignton. A record entry of 45 bands from four counties competed. Bideford’s triumph in the third section – they were one point ahead of Totnes – means that next year they will compete in section two and will also be eligible for the championship section. Mr Mervyn Sweet, their musical director, received the award for the conductor of the winning band in their section.
Colleagues admire the gold watch presented to Miss Gwen Braunton on completion of 25 years’ service with Pickfords
After 338 first team games extending over six and a half years, Bideford FC manager Graham Bond was sacked. He was given the news minutes after the end of the Western League match – ironically enough one that the Robins won 3-0 to halt a run of eight league games without a win. Bond was on contract until the end of this season and he is to receive a lump sum payment to honour this.
Jungle pair Tarzan and Jane swung to their fourth victory in a row at North Devon carnivals this year when they took first prize for the most original tableau at Dolton and Dowland torchlight carnival to add to their wins at Bideford, Barnstaple and South Molton. The tableau, entered by the Holland and Humphries families of Moreton Park, Bideford, depicts the pair in a typical jungle setting. Dolton Cubs took the special award for the best local entry with ‘Soccer special’.
Bideford Town Council want to revive the town’s ancient Manor Court ceremony.
A fine of £75 was imposed on a Bradworthy farmer for allowing an 11 year old boy to ride in what the prosecution described as an extremely dangerous position when a baler was being powered from a tractor. He had not realized how young the boy was, said the farmer of Honnacott, Bradworthy.
Mr Trevor Stanbury, of Downland, Clovelly, is a champion.
A bingo session in aid of Clovelly branch of the Royal British Legion was held at the parish hall. Callers were Messrs A Aust and S Nicholls, and Mr P Thompkins was the door steward. Refreshments were served by Mrs R Bailey, Messrs Gillett and Freeman.
Bingo session at Clovelly Parish Hall.
A Liberal sale held at Clovelly Parish Hall raised over £113. The event opened by Mrs Parsons, of Ilfracombe, wife of the divisional chairman, who was introduced by Mr G Smith, branch chairman.
A Sankey evening was held at Frithelstock Baptist Church and friends from Parkham, Westward Ho! Bradworthy, Caute and Newton St Petrock took part. The chairman was Mr John Copson of Northam and organist was Mrs K Reynolds. Supper followed and 317.76 was raised for church funds.
A Rutland man plans to convert the former rocket house almost on the cliff edge at Hartland Quay into a holiday home. Mr D Player is seeking …
The Commodore Hotel, Instow, is open all year.
Mr Peter Martin, of Furlong, Littleham, and former president of Buckland Brewer YFC, has the surprise of his life.
Two new iron flower pedestals and a new electric light for the organ, bought from the legacy of the late Miss Phillis Mary Beer, have been dedicated at St Swithin’s Church by the Rev L Budge.
Unlucky Kriter, better known as the Burton Cutter owned by Mr Alan Smith, is beaten into second place.
Littleham Hall gets a face lift.
At Littleham, the Earl Haig door-to-door collection amounted to £15.50.
Bouncells House and Cottage, Merton, for sale.
At the annual meeting of Monkleigh Village Hall, officers elected were: Mr R W Jarvis, Mr D Sanders, Mr T Gribble and Mr M Davies.
Forty acres of agricultural and accommodation land with outbuildings at Knapp, Northam, were sold at a public auction for £30,750, equivalent to about £775 an acre. The auction was held at the Durrant House Hotel on behalf of the Withecombe trustees and a local businessman was the purchaser.
Northam is to get a car park with space for 102 vehicles. The Development Committee of Torridge District Council accepted an offer by Bideford businessman Mr Alan Smith to give a site at Bone Hill Farm.
Mr and Mrs Alex Goodman of Northam will be among guests meeting the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh at a special gathering at The Guildhall, London, to mark the 200th anniversary of the building society movement.
As a result of a jumble sale Northam committee for cancer research raised £70.
An application from Mr K Redford for permission to build 50 homes on land between Durrant Lane and Limers Lane, Northam, had been made with the proposed new bridge across the River Torridge in view, suggested Cllr Lt-Cdr Michael Sumner.
The armament of a Northam country house mounted to repel the Napoleonic hordes should they reach the River Torridge has just turned up. Mrs J Murray-Palmer of Boathyde, discovered a cannon when she was gardening. “I thought it was a milk churn and began to dig around it,” Mrs Murray-Palmer said. Further examination revealed it was a cannon dated 1813. Subsequently a second similar cannon was discovered.
Devon Education Committee have deferred a decision on future relationships with Shebbear College pending the outcome of discussions between their chairman and the college governors. But the schools sub-committee told the committee that they had informed the board of management for Methodist Residential Schools that the committee did not wish to maintain Edgehill College, Bideford.
Shebbear will be independent.
20 Castle Street, Torrington, for sale.
Beginning specialist training at HMS Pembroke, the Royal Navy’s supply and secretariat school, is Sonia Martin, daughter of Mrs Valerie Martin, of New Street, Torrington. An Old Girl of Edgehill College, Sonia joined the Women’s Royal Naval Service as a writer (pay) and has just completed initial training at HMS Dauntless.
Mr J C R Trounson, who is retiring as manager of the Torrington branch of the Midland Bank following many years’ bank service, is to be succeeded by Mr Graham Peters, who started his bank career at Truro.
At a November Fayre at The Plough, Torrington, the local Red Cross Detachment raised £176.38. The fayre was opened by Miss U Parsons, area director of Social Services, who spoke of the help given by the Red Cross.
All ready to go – members of Torrington Girl Guides went ‘wombling’ on the Commons to help clear some of the rubbish left by spectators at Torrington Cavaliers’ bonfire spectacular
Double glazing of Torrington’s swimming pool is likely to cost over £1,000 according to the only quotation received so far, Torrington Town Council were told. Income from the pool exceeded expenditure by £802 in the three months May-August. Apart from the financial side the pool had been an enormous success as an amenity.
Members of Westward Ho! And Bideford Art Society are mourning the loss of their president, Lt-Col Biss, who died at Weybridge. Col Biss was educated at Blundell’s School and was the stepson of the society’s founder, first secretary and latter-day president, the late Major T R Morse, of Pimpley, Westward Ho!
Rev Alfred C Sutton is the new pastor of Westward Ho! Baptist Church.
A motor mower is the latest gift from members of Westward Ho! Women’s Institute to The Chalet old people’s home at Westward Ho! Over many years the WI have taken a neighbourly interest in the home and its residents and have made various gifts and donations.
Mrs Owen, Mrs Congdon, Mrs E M Hilder, Mrs Old
Ancient burial complex found at Westward Ho! by Major Bernard Haswell and Christopher Coles.
Bideford magistrates have made an order that a Woolsery dog owner, Cyril Piper, must keep the animal under proper control. Mr Piper was ordered to pay £7.06 witnesses’ expenses.
The plan to get rid of North Devon’s rubbish by using it to generate electricity at East Yelland Power Station seems to be dead. The North Devon/Torridge Highways Sub-Committee have decided to recommend Devon County Council not pursue the idea at this stage. They did so after hearing from the Central Electricity Generating Board that with the falling off in the national demand for current the requirement to generate at East Yelland would be small in the foreseeable future, and that considerable cost would be involved.
November 2000
Little railway mystery – the Bideford, Westward Ho! and Appledore line.
Planned expansion at Appledore Shipbuilders has been put on hold and with it the prospect of 250 new jobs.
Centenarian Mrs Ada Squires had an ‘arresting’ day when police from Bideford Station went along to wish her many happy returns. The Queen did, too, with a telegram. Her late husband Frank was Appledore’s bobby on the beat around the 1950s – a familiar figure and a friend to the people of the area. Ada still lives at Appledore Rest Home.
Sgt Penny Clarke, PC Mike Tricker, Mrs Ada Squires, Inspector Geoff Woodley
Plans for the four-town Tree of Light celebration services are beginning to get under way at the region’s two major hospices – the Children’s Hospice South West and North Devon Hospice. Barnstaple, Bideford, South Molton and Torrington will all be holding special candlelight services in December which hundreds are expected to attend. Many people add an extra tribute to the memory of loved ones by dedicating lights which are entered in a Book of Remembrance.
Bideford is to get its parish poll on the town’s new flood defence scheme. Following consultation with Torridge District Council a ruling has been given that the call for a poll made at a public meeting was in order. Doubts were raised whether the proper procedures had been followed.
Storms declared the worst in a decade brought chaos and misery to people in North Devon with winds gusting up to 80mph, torrential rain and floods.
High and dry. The East-the-Water relief road stands above the flood water after a storm.
Bideford and Borneo are to be linked with a unique ‘tree twinning’ project as part of National Tree Planting Week. A tree is to be planted in Victoria Park bearing an inscribed plaque from Borneo while funding through TAG 21 and the International Tree Foundation will pay for more trees to be planted on an orangutan reserve in the rain forest of Borneo.
Children at Grenville College in Bideford have been hard at work gathering toys, books, games and other presents for less fortunate youngsters in Kosovo, Serbia, Romania, and other Eastern European countries. They have decorated and filled shoeboxes with Christmas gifts, adding notes and photographs. Their gifts are part of Operation Christmas Child, a project run by the charity Samaritan’s Purse.
Sarah Maitland, George Morris, Rebecca Ferguson, Luke Cann, George Lundy
Artistic talent has shone through at an early age for Lucy Mead and Joanna Luck of Grenville College Junior School. Lucy from Bideford won her group in the Independent Schools Association SW Art Competition, Joanna from Merton was highly commended in her section.
The new Matt Fiddes Black Belt Academy for residents of the Bideford area has received a warm welcome. “I could not believe the response when I advertised” said Matt, who already has an established academy in Barnstaple. Instructors are Jason Sollis and Peter Choules who were fully trained by Matt (who recently became nationally known following the release of his video made with Uri Geller).
Sixty years of scouting in Bideford was celebrated with a weekend get-together of scouts and cubs old and new, a social evening and a special church service. Adding to the celebration was the welcome news that the 2nd Bideford Scout Troop, which has been in abeyance for 16 months because of a lack of leaders, is to be re-started.
Bideford’s corps of town guides have had such a good season they want more volunteers to swell their ranks for next year. The guides who show off the heritage of the historic Little White Town to visitors and locals hope to expand the service. “We don’t need experts, just people with enthusiasm, a pride in Bideford and time to spare,” said spokesman Mike Davy.
Joy Kirby, Eleanor Rogers, Di Warmington, Marilyn Northcott, Mike Davy, Victor Castagnola, Mike Bradshaw, Bob Barton, Mike Hudson, Neville Jackson
Character cottage at Fairy Cross, Bideford, for sale.
The Mayor of Bideford, Councillor Noel Deakes, was among the guests of the town’s Lions’ Club which celebrated its 25th anniversary at the Royal Hotel. Other special guests included John Cook, the District Governor, and Tony Webb, the Charter District Governor in 1975. The two remaining charter members from 1975 played active parts in the proceedings. Ray Twose was toastmaster and Colin Rickard, the present Zone Chairman, welcomed ladies and guests. In its first quarter of a century, the Lions’ Club has raised more than £100,000 for local charitable causes. President David Page expressed thanks to those who had donated money, gifts and time over the years.
Buckland Brewer house for sale.
The Friends of Buckland Brewer Primary School celebrated their tenth anniversary by planting a flowering cherry tree in the school garden. Over the years, the organization has raised around £14,000 to buy extras for the 37-pupil school. Members have painted classrooms, bought computers and paid for the upkeep of the swimming pool.
Jenny Vanstone, Jade Walter, Alice Birch and other youngsters
Beth Shelvah, Higher Clovelly, for sale.
The earth moved for proprietors of a shellfish business in Clovelly when a landslip literally buried their lock-up premises. Sue and Barry Perham’s ‘Shell Fish Shop’ on the quay was covered in tons of earth and stones when the landslip occurred in the early hours of the morning. Fortunately the couple do not live over the shop they have run for 20 years in the fishing village, but the building and all its contents have been lost. Barry has no idea when or if they will be able to resurrect the business which has provided a living for more than two decades.
Toddlers now have their own attraction on Fremington village green with the installation of new swings. Councillor Rodney Cann said “The popularity of the green has grown since we provided a picnic table and additional seats. It has become quite a favoured spot for mums and dads and often grandparents with their children.
Mr Cann, Dave Harris, Mary Barrell, Stephen Price, Josh Hooper, Chloe Hooper
The RAF pulled out all the stops when ex-WAAF Ella Webbe, from Fremington, asked to visit her wartime base at St Mawgan. This was where she met husband-to-be, Bob. She is pictured being presented with mementoes of her visit by Wind Cdr Keith Maxwell and Flying Officer Danni Spiridigliezzio.
Japan and North Devon have got together to present a puppet opera which will have its world premiere in Hartland Parish Hall. The She-Fox of Shinoda will be performed by a Japanese pupped troupe with music composed by Colin Hodgetts and played by Hartland Chamber Orchestra.
Police are investigating a burglary which occurred at a house in Anstey Way, Instow. Among items stolen was an Olympus camera. The victim is keen to have this returned because it contains holiday snaps.
A purge on motorists speeding through Landkey has resulted in 22 people being prosecuted. Following concern by local residents over speeding in the village Devon County Council undertook a number of speed surveys at various locations suggested by the parish council. The results indicated an abuse of the 30mph speed limit and brought prosecutions by the policy.
Lundy is in the export business! The popular holiday island off the North Devon coast has for the first time started to export one of its unique products. The distinctive taste of Lundy lamb is now available to UK mainland customers. “The lambs in our managed flock are born and reared on the island without the pressures of modern intensive methods, on a diet …”
An imposing Grade II listed thatched cottage in Monkleigh is for sale. There is a detached stable block or workshop with potential for conversion to a one or two-bedroomed bungalow suitable for a granny annexe subject to planning permission.
Memories, in Northam, is under the new ownership of Brett and Naomi.
Detached house in Northam for sale.
It was taken from half-a-mile away but you could almost feel the heat from this picture of Torrington’s ‘Streets of London’ charity bonfire which took first prize in Torrington Cavaliers’ amateur photographic competition. His reward for a unique Dartington Crystal bowl, suitably inscribed by their craftsmen.
This shot was by Wreford Leverton of Taddiport
Representatives of good causes gathered at Torrington School for a massive handout of cash by the Torrington Cavaliers charity. Donations totalling £40,000 from the proceeds of the Cavaliers’ Bonfire 2000 spectacular made it the biggest single charity event North Devon has ever seen. The millennium blaze drew some 20,000 people to Torrington on August Bank Holiday.
Charity cheques galore are displayed by Cavaliers’ chairman Dave Kelly and bonfire queen Susan Street with the help of Cavalier mascots Devon Brown, Freddy Palmer and Archie Smithson
The first of a series of sports forums will be held at Torrington Sports Hall.
The Old Union Inn at Stibb Cross, near Torrington, has won the 2000 Best Pub Food Award.
Nigel Smith, John Dennis, Carol McKay, John McKay, Anita Durford
What better way to tell diners that you cook traditionally with local produce than to give your Westward Ho! restaurant the traditional local name of Potwallopers? Locally reared meat, locally caught fish and locally grown vegetables are the basis of a wide a la carte menu in Russell and Sara Vincent’s dining-out venue. The Vincents came to Westward Ho! after a long search for a restaurant which was the right size and in the right place.
There were celebrations all round at Kingsley Indoor Bowling Club in Westward Ho! when members marked the acquisition of the freehold of their premises. A limited company was formed and members issed with £1 shares. Two members, Peter Wade and Brian Slee provided funds to be repaid by a mortgage over 15 years.
Photo includes Denis Bamford, Tony Stephens, Alan Fitzjohn, Den Ward
The village of Winkleigh has its own Christmas lights switch-on ceremony. This year, Father Christmas will do the honours on December 11. A Christmas tree and lights are put up around the village by the Fair Committee. Hatherleigh Silver Band will play seasonal music under the tree. Hot punch and mince pies will be served.
Yelland property for sale.
