December 2000

Christmas Day television viewing.

In a letter to the Editor, Mr W Smith, Appledore Traders’ Association, says “Sir – a poll of our members showed a 90% majority against any further increase in yellow lines in Appledore. It was resolved to seek renewal of white line restrictions adjacent to the bus shelter.”

Appledore steps back in time for a Victorian carol service in the Parish Church. Among the items will be comic drama, sketches, music, poetry, readings… and a ghost story! After the service there is an invitation to attend the adjacent church hall for mince pies and mulled wine.

The Rev John Ewington, Sarah Ewington, and Mandy Bond

The former Stella Maris School and grounds in Bideford have been officially opened as 47 new homes to rent for local people. In a project incorporating both regeneration and new building, a mix of homes have been provided for single people, the elderly and for families. Twenty-two flats for older people have been developed in the former school buildings.

Cllr Johns, Carole Glanville, Cllr Pam Paddon

Children from the infant and junior classes at Grenville College, Bideford, are pictured at their annual Christingle service. A collection and wordsearch competition resulted in £140 being raised for The Children’s Society.

The Duke of Edinburgh will visit Bideford at the end of March to see the new efforts to restore the Kathleen and May which is being restored on the riverside. It is hoped to have her back in the water early next year. South West MEP Giles Chichester was a special visitor to the wharf – the son of famous sailor Sir Francis Chichester had taken a special interest in the project.

Bideford’s annual carnival capers resulted in £800 being shared by local causes. In a presentation ceremony at the Bideford Amateur Rowing Club regatta, committee chairman Ken Hearn and carnival secretary Maureen Humphries presented cheques to Bideford Youth Pipe Band, Torridgeside Majorettes, Bideford Blues/Appledore Juniors Football Club, St John Ambulance, Bideford Hospital, and Bideford Army Cadet Force.

Santa and his Round Table helpers will again be touring the Bideford area with their popular carol float. Delighting the children and spreading festive spirit among the community the musical float will once again be raising funds for local charities.

Later in the month … Santa arrived in Bideford on a colourful sleigh, to be greeted by some 200 people gathered on the quayside for the official launch of the town’s Christmas festivities. Town Mayor Noel Deakes and the Reverend Penny Dobbin led open-air carol singing as the children awaited the arrival of Santa, who they quickly mobbed.

The Santa Express comes to Bideford this Christmas as the grand old man of Christmas opens his grotto at the former Bideford Railway Station. While there he will not miss the opportunity to climb in the cab of the Railway Group’s newly arrived diesel locomotive as it moves up and down the lines.

All ready for Bideford’s soap box Grand Prix on New Year’s Eve is the prototype made by the shipwrights working on the historic Kathleen and May. Among them Paul Morne, who has been working part-time on a work experience programme with Bideford College. He will be the driver in the big race.

Paul Morne and Steve Clarke

Red hot jazz at The Blacksmiths Arms, Bideford.

The funeral of Sister Eunan, head of St Joseph’s, the junior department of Stella Maris Convent in Bideford.

Helping others not just at Christmas but all the year round is the message from two North Devon teenagers who have just received Awards of Excellence from Education Minister David Blunkett. The awards recognise more than 200 hours of voluntary work by Torridge Millennium Volunteers Alice Chadwick of Hartland, and Joanna Foot of Langtree.

Bill Pain – better known as Mr Instow – is stepping down as clerk to the parish council from January 1. He has been clerk since 1983 and his involvement in local organisations is legion. He was a special constable for 28 years and has been secretary of both the yacht club and North Devon Cricket Club. He is succeeded as clerk by former policeman Roger Jacob.

Old friends met up again after a break of almost 50 years. Ella Webbe of Fremington and Lilian Rennie of Northam were brought together – both were married to airmen and formed a close friendship when they were next door neighbours at RAF Lyneham. But they had not seen each other since 1952.

Northam Scout Richard Andersen receives the top Chief Scout Award.

After two years of deliberations the parishioners of Northam are being asked if they want plans for a new village hall to mark the new millennium to go ahead. Three thousand questionnaires are being sent to households asking people if they would use such a hall or if they do not think the plan feasible. A survey of the town centre two years highlighted a need for a modern hall and somewhere for the town’s youth. In May of this year a public meeting voted in favour of the project. The Parochial Church Council has offered to kickstart the plan with £48,000, proceeds of the sale of Northam Scout Hall which was built on church land. That was brought for the Scouts by the Bideford Bridge Trust.

Torrington 1646 heritage centre named as the Devon Family Attraction of the Year in The Good Britian Guide 2001.

It will be music all the way this Christmas in Great Torrington, with packed programme of events for everyone to enjoy. Torrington’s traders have risen to the occasion once again with a wide variety of presents and provisions for sale, making a shopping trip to the town well worthwhile. The shops are filled with the sound of carols and the traders are running a special competition for charity. Schoolchildren and shoppers are being asked to seek out the names of Christmas songs depicted in the windows of 57 shops. Entry forms are being sold in aid of Children’s Hospice South West.

The violent death of sheep in remote fields outside Woolsery has led to speculation that a ‘big cat’ may be on the prowl. Sightings of a ‘big, black beast’ have been reported but tangible evidence that ‘something is out there’ came when Tony Doree checked his five hand-reared sheep in a field at Knights Leisure Centre, outside Woolsery.

December 1975

Under pressure of public opinion British Rail announced the retention of two of the trains planned to be axed next year on the Exeter-North Devon line. But a BR West of England spokesman told the Gazette that in present circumstances there was no prospect of any further concession being made. The two saved trains are the 20.36 Exeter to Barnstaple and the 21.50 Barnstaple to Exeter.

Josephine Dunn, of Abbotsham, member of the Stevenstone and Torrington Farmers’ branch of the Pony Club, has been awarded a scholarship sponsored by the Horse and Hound magazine. This will give her a month as a working pupil at the Talland school of equitation near Cirencester. The daughter of Mr and Mrs Leslie Dunn, she began riding when she was six.

Josephine and Nutmeg

A nine-hole golf course at Abbotsham Court Hotel must go. The Department of the Environment have dismissed an appeal against refusal of planning permission lodged by Mr D Davis and Major Giles Lomas. An enforcement notice served by Torridge District Council has also been upheld, but the period in which it must be complied with has been increased from 56 days to six months.

Abbotsham Court Hotel, a notable addition to North Devon’s tourist industry since 1971, is threatened with closure after a running battle with the planners. They turned down an application for a nine hole golf course and now the proprietor, Mr Gordon Davis, is seeking to convert the property into four homes. “This is tentative because I do not know what the planners will allow, but my immediate reaction is to close down. Obviously we are terribly disappointed.” Mr Davis said that having obtained planning permission for a hotel in 1970, he immediately thought he should apply for normal facilities – a heated swimming pool, tennis courts and golf course. But, officially, it

The sale of Haig poppies in Alwington parish realized £21.57. The collectors were Mrs F Blight, Mrs R Westlake and Mrs E Parr, and the organizer Mr Elson.

An audience of 100 attended a mannequin show and coffee evening organised by the Appledore Parent/Teacher Association. The mannequins were Mrs Venison, Mrs C Josling, Mrs A Blackmore, Mrs B Smith and Mrs M Copp. The hall was beautifully decorated by the parks department of Torridge District Council.

A former pupil of Appledore County Primary School, Graham Gardner, has graduated as a Master of Arts in Town and Regional Planning at the University of Sheffield. Graham is the son of Mr Alan Gardner, a barrister who is also a qualified town planner and who was Clerk of the old Northam Urban Council prior to April 1974.

Appledore Pirates fell a Christmas tree.

Appledore shipyard workers cause congestion.

Appledore may repeat festival.

G F Truscott, 12 High Street, Bideford, is closing down.

What is the secret of Bideford tunnel at Ford House?

Mr Summers, of Bideford, is very angry after reading about the closure of the children’s ward at the Bideford and District Hospital, and has written to Her Majesty the Queen, the Prime Minister and his MP demanding a full inquiry.

Patients at the Torridge Hospital at Bideford were happy to lend a helping hand preparing the Christmas decorations.

Mesdames Wright, Jetten, Potter, Churchill and Stacey. Staff include Mesdames Cork, Wilson, Clements, Norris, Willis and Sister Carey

Revival of Bideford’s ancient Manor Court ceremony next year will have the blessing of Torridge District Council. A request for permission was unnecessary, the secretary and solicitor Mr Andrew Footner told the finance and general purposed sub-committee. That had been agreed before the district council had become active. And he saw no objection to the Town Council being given delegated powers to appoint a steward. This was agreed and that he shall be the Town Council’s clerk, Mr Ian Hay. It was also decided to help with administration and the venue and, at the request of Cllr Frank Colwill, to investigate the possibility of handing back the manor rights to the Bideford council.

Record attendance at the annual meeting of Bideford (Strand) Bowling Club.

For the first time since it was founded at Bideford 91 years ago Edgehill College is to have a man in charge. When the present headmistress, Miss A Mary Shaw, retires at the end of the summer term she will be succeeded by Mr Joseph Shepherd, 46, of Wolverhampton.

It was best double-foot forward for 16 girls of the Upper Vth of Edgehill College when they went on a sponsored three-legged walk from the College to Westward Ho! slipway. As a result they hope to raise about £45 for a Society in Barnstaple. They were accompanied on their walk by their form mistress, Mrs Symonds.

Four from Edgehill gain Duke of Edinburgh’s gold award.  

Since they started raising money for charity less than a year ago customers of the Heavitree Inn, Bideford, have contributed more than £200, and have so far raised £133 for their latest project, a guide dog for the blind. Latest event at the public house, where Mr Ken Chadwick and his wife June are licensees, was a fancy dress darts match with customers from the nearby Golden Hinde public house in Cooper Street.

Nearly every child at St Mary’s Church of England Primary School at Bideford took part in a school concert. Various items performed by each class included the stories of the King’s New Clothes, the Queen’s Birthday – contributed by the infants – and a story called Briar Rose, plus a shadow puppet play and various songs and musical items.

A successful uncommon market at Lavington in Bideford.

Mr Stan Short takes laver, hogs pudding and cream to London.  

A Xmas present for Mr and Mrs Mervyn Ashton and family when their eldest daughter, Kym Pead, visits from Australia.

Bideford Town Band and St Mary’s Church choir entertained more than 70 people, many of them old-age pensioners, at East-the-Water Community Centre. The event was organised by East-the-Water Action Group, who presented the band with two new music stands and afterwards took a collection towards providing more. The Mayor of Bideford, Mr Stan Short, expressed Christmas greetings and wished the group every success in the future.

One hundred and nineteen anglers braved the cold to fish Bideford and District Angling Club’s open Christmas competition at Bideford but the fish were less than enthusiastic! Only 22 anglers brought fish to the scales to share the 15 prizes of Christmas fare. The turkey for first prize went to R Bowden. C Davies was second and took the Harris trophy for the best catch by a club member as well as a chicken. Third was J Rucki and other prizes went to Gabriel Palmer, J Goddard, D Payne, K Brock, A Newman, W Wheatley, R Skinner, D Clements, A Bradey, Trevor Fishleigh, Mrs P Mitchell, Stephen Hearn. The cash pool for the best three fish went to C Davies, I Scoynes and J Rucki.

Civic, sporting and many other local organisations were represented among the large attendance at the funeral of Mr David Owen Lee, for the past eight years secretary of Bideford Regatta. Mr Lee lived at Woodford, Kenwith Road, Bideford. Employed in the administrative section of East Yelland power station, he had rowed for Bideford AAC with which the Lee family have long been associated. Service was at St Mary’s Church, Bideford.

Organisations with which he had been associated were represented at the funeral at the North Devon Crematorium of Mr Arthur Fogaty, former managing director of Wickham and Co Ltd, of Bideford, who died at his home, Hazeldene.

Bradworthy funeral of Mr Henry Harris.

Buckland Brewer WI.

Angry protests have followed Devon Fire Brigade’s decision to remove two emergency fire ladders from Clovelly, which it was claimed, villagers have been using for house decorations. The chairman of Clovelly Parish Council, Mr Royston Johns, said he and other councillors felt it was imperative that the ladders, which are kept under a covered way at the rear of the New Inn Hotel, should remain. They could save a life before the fire brigade arrived.

Clovelly herring not ‘a thing of the past’

To commemorate the diamond jubilee of the Women’s Institute movement, a tree has been planted in the grounds of the Parish Hall at Clovelly by the local WI. The planning was by the president, Mrs A Aust, assisted by Mr L May.

A whist drive at Clovelly parish hall, in aid of hall funds, had 8½ tables in play. Mr S Nicholls was the MC and Miss P Braund the door steward. Mrs J Burrow presented the prizes to Mesdames l Rowe, J Walters, J Beer, M Beer, H Prust, T Squire, J Measures, J Heard, Miss P Braund, Messrs T Stoneman, A Taylor and B Durman. 

Clovelly Legion competitions.

Clovelly military whist drive.

Dolton and Dowland Conservatives held a successful qualifying whist drive in the Village Hall. Mr J Heal was MC and Mrs Whitlock, chairman of the Torrington Division, presented prizes to Mrs O Woollacott, Miss J Down, Mrs I Ware, Mr P Taylor, Mr W Baker, Mr Stagg, Mrs Fishleigh, Mr Pipe, Mr Ward and Mrs Gill. Mrs E Piper conducted a raffle and refreshments were served by Mrs Heal, Mrs Weeks and Mr and Mrs Grogan.

Dolton event.  

Frithelstock Poppy Day collection raised £14.03 - £5 more than last year. Collectors were Mr and Mrs Toogood.

Special Constable Pamela Gammon of Frithelstock receives a long service medal.

A dance at Frithelstock village hall, organised by Mr and Mrs R Bond and helpers raised about £33 for Frithelstock Parish Church. Door stewards were Rev L Budge and Mr S Adams and draw winners were Mr R Daniel, Mrs J Prouse, Mrs D Pearce, Mr A Heywood, Mr A Withecombe. A Christmas coffee evening, held at the Manse, Frithelstock, the home of the Rev H and Mrs Sugg, raised about £17 for Frithelstock Baptist Church. There was a bring and buy stall and a competition was won by Mrs M Hearn. The evening ended with carol singing.

A bingo session was held in the Church Hall, Hartland, in aid of Badminton Club funds. A variety sale held at the Chapel was organised by Miss L Colwill, Mesdames S Hewitt, W Prouse and G Barrow, and Messrs J and K Perryman. Tea and light refreshments were served later.

Forty five members of Hartland Over-60s Club visited the West Country Inn, for a buffet supper plus dancing, singing and games.

A letter to the Editor from Mr Dark: Sir – the mystery surrounding the whereabouts of the village green at Instow appears to have been solved at the Parish Council meeting. It is called VG92 by the Devon County Council and OS532 by the Parish Council who let it for grazing. The District Auditors say it was let for 11 months and the Parish Council received the rent of £6.

On behalf of Mr H Clements, Messrs Kivell and Sons, auctioneers, sold at public auction 16 acres of accommodation land at Landcross for £7,200. Bidding started at £3,000 and the purchaser was Mr H Martin, of Orchard, Monkleigh.

Mr L J Badcock, vice-chairman of the Littleham Skittle Club, deputizing for Mr Headon, presented a silver tankard to Mr Cyril Lyle and a silver goblet to Mrs Lyle as a silver wedding present. Mr Lyle has been the club’s hon secretary since 1932.

The funeral of Mr A Parkhouse, of Four Winds, Littleham, took place at the North Devon Crematorium.

At the autumn bazaar held in connection with Northam Methodist Church 3325 was raised, the highest amount ever for this annual event. The bazaar was opened by Mrs Metherell who was presented with a bouquet by Harriet Peacock. Thanks were expressed by the Rev H Maurice Hart.

Contents from Reed House, Diddywell Road, Northam, for sale by direction of the Trustees of Lady Nicholls.

Fuchias are to be planted by Bideford Fuchsia Society in the grounds of Fairlea Welfare Home, Northam, next spring, it was reported at the annual meeting of the society.

Although described by one member, Mr J Need, as ‘a luxury we cannot afford’ Northam Town Council have included £100 for a Mayor’s reception in their estimates for next year.

Because of book-keeping technicalities Northam Town Council have changed their minds about handing back to Torridge District Council any unspent money at the end of the financial year. Instead they will reduce their rate levy in the following year to absorb it. Mr R F Hill said he understood the District Council would prefer not to have any unspent money returned in the way proposed, and the clerk, Mr Don Wallis, explained, “it is really a book-keeping exercise.”

There is likely to be opposition from nearby residents to a £2 million plus project to build 200 houses and a holiday complex on some 50 acres of land at Northam extending from Sandymere Road towards West Appledore and fronting the Burrows, a country park. Outline planning application has been made for the development, which would extend to Long Lane.

Slides of the Holy Land shown by Miss Marjorie Knowles at Phayre House, Northam, raised £20 for arthritis research. A sale and gift day at the United Reformed Church was opened by Mrs P R Grail and raised £730.53 for church funds.

A total of £92.79 was raised for school funds when Parkham School held their annual Christmas sale in the Allardice Hall. Most of the items on the gift stall had been made by the schoolchildren. Stallholders included Mr and Mrs Luxton, Jacqueline Cann, Christine Hicks, Launa Bollar, Mesdames Davison, Pickard, Priest, Ford, Daniels, Williams, Pennington and Bottomley. Miss Jenkin thanked all who helped to make the sale a success.

The Liberal branch’s coffee evening and bring and buy stall in the Allardice Hall raised £15.60 for party funds. Draw winners were Mrs Batson and Mrs Daniels.

The annual Hunt Ball was held in the Allardice Hall, Parkham, in aid of the Stevenstone Hunt funds. Draw winners included John Hutchings, A Elrick, Charles Wise, Roger Colwill, W Kemble, F Lorne, Arthur Poole, P A Rickards, Elsey Bros.  

Mary Thorne of Shebbear explains some of the finer points of netball to two younger members of Shebbear Girl Guide Company. Mary has been chosen to play for Devon under-14 netball team as goalshooter – the position she occupies in Edgehill College’s first team. A second in the Swallow patrol of the Girl Guide Company, she is also a member of Shebber Church Choir. Two other Edgehill girls, Susan Madge and Helen McKeen, have been chosen to represent Devon in the under-14 second team.

Mrs Mary Wood, of South Street, Torrington, district nurse and midwife, was among those presented with the Queen’s Nursing Institute long service medal by the Duchess of Gloucester in St James’s Palace, London.

Torrington Rotary Club’s appeal for £2,000 to enable the Bickford Rest Centre Committee to buy the old people’s centre in South Street, and maintain its use for the elderly, has passed the half-way mark only a month after it was launched. Latest money-raising events by the Rotary Club included a wine and cheese party at The Plough entertainment centre. More than 150 people attended and over £200 was raised.

A scheme has been launched to set up a Corps of Drums at Torrington and to have it ready for May Fair. Nearly 30 people, including a former military drum major, have expressed an interest and an organising committee has been set up. No clash with the long established Town Band is anticipated.

The interior of Torrington Town Hall has been transformed by a scheme of decoration now approaching completion.

Ebberley Hill, St Giles, Torrington, for sale.

20 Castle Street, Torrington, for sale.

The annual Christmas fair at Howe Church, Torrington, set a new record by raising £400. It was opened by Mrs P Turton, who was welcomed by the chairman, Mr O R Owen. Bouquets and buttonholes were presented by Ian Beer and Loraine Cockwell, and a vote of thanks extended by Mr S G W Jones, church secretary. Mr W Harris was Father Christmas.

The civic ceremony of Torrington May Fair will next year be held at The Plough entertainment centre, instead of in the Town Hall. The changeover arises from the leasing of part of the town hall by the Town and Alms Land Trustees to the Torrington and District Society for use as a museum.

A milk intake 13.5% up on this period last year and 3.9% higher than ever before at this time has brought joy to the Unigate milk factory at Torrington.

Weare Giffard WI

The English actor, Clive Marshall, was shot dead on television in Sydney, and as a result will soon meet the father he has not seen for 30 years. Marshall, 37, was playing a supporting role in the television serial Ben Hall and was shot dead by the 19^th century bushranger. His father – who came from Westward Ho! and now lives at Townsville, Queensland – saw the episode and contacted him through the Australian Broadcasting Commission. “I have not seenhim since just after the war,” he said.

It was a day for the high handicap players in the Royal North Devon Golf Club ladies medal competition. Playing off a 30 handicap, Mrs Barabar Green returned a net 70 to beat her nearest rival by four strokes. Second was Mrs Gill Hudson, and third, Mrs K Heywood.

Nearly 200 attended Westward Ho! Community Association’s annual carol concert. A profit of £21 was shared between Bideford Town Band and St John Ambulance. Those taking part were Westward Ho! Ladies Choir, Westward Ho! Follies, Westward Ho! play school and the junior section of Bideford Town Band.

The go-ahead was given by Torridge District Council’s plans sub-committee for a holiday development at Woolsery. Permission was granted to Flt-Lt E J Lagnado for 50 holiday chalets and an 18-hole golf course and car park at East Yagland. A sewage treatment works is to be provided. The application was for 52 chalets reached by 12ft wide access roads to groups and ar parks, arranged in blocks. The idea had been to stop a spread on the hillside, said the planning and development officer, Mr Tony Hodder. There were substantial six-berth chalets.

December 1925

Funeral ceremonies. A nation’s tribute for Queen Alexandra.

Earl Haig’s Appeal

Marriages – Richard Wallace Littlejohns and Ada Jeffery; George Henry Fowler and Carrie Challis; Alexander Finnie and Florence Stoneman; Arthur Garrett and Ethel Henderson Way;

Golden wedding – Thomas Short to Emma Matilda Wakeley

Deaths – Fanny Becklake, Parkham; Alice Hearn, Frithelstock; Mary Jane Pennington, Michigan; Emma Anne Sealy Braithwaite; Frances Anson; Elizabeth Grace Babb; Samuel Bishop; Grace Hockin; Edward Phillips Pridham

The concert held in connection with the Wesley Guild has been held in the Alverdiscott Wesleyan Schoolroom, a large audience enjoying the performance. A whist drive and dance held in the Alverdiscott Schoolroom.

A successful whist drive at Alwington.

A successful Liberal concert meeting was held in Alwington Schoolroom. There was a crowded attendance presided over by Mr T Burton. The speaker was Mr R W Young, of Bideford. An enjoyable programme was contributed to by Mr A Dunn and Misses Langbridge and Goodman; Mr E Marsh; Mr C Brough; Mr C Prance; Messrs Allin and Dunn; Miss Dunn. At the close a hearty vote of thanks to the entertainers, the speaker and also the Vciar, the Rev H C Spring, for kindly loaning the piano, was carried on the motion of Mr H Morrish, seconded by Mr Pole.

Mr Henry Johnson Mason, formerly of Portledge – funeral at Alwington.

The funeral took place at Alwington Churchyard of the late Mr Thomas Hockin, building, of Spanny Hone, who passed away after a lengthy illness. The Rev Springs officiated. The chief bearers were Messrs R Pennington, W Daniel, J Daniel, J Smale, W H Palmer and G Smalldon.

Much sympathy is felt in this and neighbouring parishes for the relatives of Mrs S Beer, who passed away at the residence of her daughter, Mrs Hedden of Broad Parkham after a short illness. The funeral took place in Alwington Churchyard, the Rector officiating. There were many friends and neighbours from Parkham, Hoops and Alwington, besides the family. The bearers were Messrs E T Lott, J Kievill, J Ford, J Sergeant, T Squance and G Lee.

RNLI – Appledore Branch annual meeting. A year of progress.

SS Ashton run down in fog and two Appledore men drowned – Mr Arthur Cook and Mr Edward Cann.

Owing to a special request by several of the local seafaring community and members of the British Legion, the Vicar of Appledore arranged for a short memorial service for M1 at the evening service. After taking a portion of the burial service, the reverend gentleman to a crowded congregation chiefly dressing in mourning, then gave an uplifting address from the lectern, pointing out how proud they all ought to be to feel that they had men who were willing to take great risks by manning the submarines, so that they might maintain the high efficiency of the senior service and thus be ready in case of necessity to defend their country. The service was concluded with ‘Eternal Father’ sung kneeling, and the National Anthem. 

Owing to the enterprise of the Postmaster of Bideford, a Sunday post was dispatched from Appledore for the first time on a Sunday evening.

At Bideford County Sessions, the licence of the Prince of Wales Inn, Appledore, was transferred to Miss Eastman, executor of the former licensee, and who has been managing the house for some years.

Appledore Girl Guides whist drive held at Greysands, Northam.

Christmas appeal from John J Nelson, The Manse, Appledore.

Appledore Child Welfare Christmas tree entertainment, with thanks to Mrs Valentine, Mrs Galsworthy and Mrs Harvey.

Thursday’s meeting of Barnstaple and District Employment Committee. Mr Colwill (Bideford) mentioned that at the last meeting a resolution was received from Bideford Sub-Committee that salmon fishing was being done at Appledore, and the same people were taking the unemployment pay as well.

Mr J Heywood, of Northam, presided over a meeting of the Wesley Guild held in the Appledore schoolroom. A very able and interesting address on Missionary Work was given by Mrs Halstead, of Bideford. Reports on the work were given by a number of helpers: Nora Lock, Oliver Smith, Edna Lane, Dolly Baron, Resella Jenkins, Annie Gayette. Solos were given by the Misses a beer and R Hocking, and a duet by the Misses Kathleen Taylor and Edna Lane. This was followed by a coffee supper which was well attended.

A popular wedding took place at St Mary’s Church. The contracting parties were Mr Arthur Stone and Miss Vida Hill, daughter of Mr and Mrs William Hill, of Irsha Streeet. The Vicar officiated. The bride was charmingly dressed in a cinnamon coloured costume with jumper and hat to match. The happy pair left for Plymouth and Tor Cross to spend the honeymoon.

Illness of Mr J N Tuplin, of Appledore.

An interesting career has closed with the death of Mr Frederick Howell-Tucker, of Richmond Terrace, Appledore. Mr Tucker leaves a widow, four daughters and a son to mourn their loss. His eldest daughter, Mrs Baron, predeceased him, and another daughter married Captain Victor Leslie, of the Trinity Pilots. The only son is at present on passage home from Australia with Messrs Shaw-Saville and Co.

The inquest on Mr Thomas Victor Rees, of Appledore, who died on board s.s. Orchis, after unbattening the hold, which contained apples, was resumed when the Coroner, Mr E Hutchings, said he had made the adjournment in order to send details to the Ministry of Health. They were, however, acquainted with the facts, and therefore he returned a verdict of ‘death by the accidental inhalation of carbonic acid gas given off by the apples.’

Petrol lorry runs amok down High Street, Bideford.

‘Unemployed ratepayers’

For shingling, bobbing and Marcel Waving, go to Mrs Seymour Searle, Hairdresser, 1 Bridge Street, Bideford.

Visit Truscott’s, 12 High Street, Bideford.

The British Empire Buick at Heard Brothers Ltd.

The Children’s Ward at Bideford & District Hospital need £250 at once.

The Committee of Devonians in Bristol through the kind influence of Mr Aldred Beer, have unanimously voted £5 5s to the new Bideford Hospital Fund. The widespread response to the Appeal towards the Building Fund has produced in the minds of all who care for the sick – and who does not care? – a feeling of sincere gratitude.

Bideford Fire Brigade – Northam accepts terms.

Bideford Rotarians were given an especially interesting paper at their fortnightly luncheon by Rotarian J D Herridge, who spoke on the history and development of the British Postal Service. The Vice-President, Mr F Lee, who occupied the chair, referred to the national loss in the death of Queen Alexandra, observing that her life symbolized the spirit of Rotary – Service above self.

“On Saturday, 7 November, I was at Northam and left about 10pm. When I got to Mr Carnegie’s I went into Chope’s allotment and pulled a lot of greens and filled up that bag. I also pulled off an armful of cabbages. I heard someone in the road, and I dropped them and ran away. Some I wasted in the lane. I don’t know what made do it.” This, according to PC W H Uglow’s statement to Bideford County Magistrates, was what a Bideford labourer, told him when the constable informed him that a rush basket and an umbrella similar to what he was seen carrying had been found in Chope’s allotment. He was summoned for damage with intent to steal the cabbages, the property of Mr William Turner, gardener, of Clevelands Cottage, Northam. 

John Pinsent, electrician, High Street, Bideford, is fined.

The 3^rd North Devon (Bideford) Troop, BP Scouts held their annual whist drive and dance at the BAAC Hall and a most successful evening was the result. The drive commenced at 7.15pm and about 120 people sat down to the tables. More were expected but owing to the severity of the weather the Scouts considered themselves favoured to have had so many brave the rain. The MC was Scoutmaster F Cole, assisted by Patrol Leader R Sheeres, and everything was done to keep things moving and to finish at the appointed time. Prizes were distributed, the winners being: Mrs L Purves, Miss Smale, Mrs Burton, Mr Braddick, Mr C Ashton, Mr E W Cox. Lucky number prizes were won by Miss Hilda Gigg and Mrs Maude Cole, both of which should prove very useful as well as ornamental to the ladies.

Mrs Ward of Bideford has been appointed as one of the Devon County Lawn Tennis Association Selection Committee to assist in connection with ladies’ matches.

The silver plated flask presented to the local police force by Capt J R Braddick, MC, for the best miniature rifle shot, has been won by PC Olding after a close contest with Inspector Parr, only two points dividing them in the final. PC Olding left Bideford having been moved to Broadhempston, his place at Bideford being taken by PC Cotton.

Interesting presentation to Mr John Adams at Bideford United Methodist Church Assembly Hall.

On behalf of the officers, teachers and scholars of the Lavington Sunday School, Bideford, the Rev Alfred Clegg presented to Mrs F Willis, now of Appledore, a copy of the Worship song, as a mark of their appreciation of her services as teacher at the Sunday School for many years.

The marriage arranged between Mr George Lorns Carter-Campbell, of Possil, Lanark, only son of the late Mr Arthur Carter-Campbell, and of Mrs Frank Berkworth, and Diana, daughter of the late Sir Robert Park Lyle, Bart., and Lady Park Lyle, of Eaton Place, took place at St Paul’s, Knightsbridge. Mr Robert Kirkwood gave the bride away. Miss Betty Baldwin, daughter of the Prime Minister and Mrs Baldwin, headed the retinue of six bridesmaids, the others being Miss Dorothy Campbell, Miss Pamela Baker, Miss Rosemary Cohen, Miss Jean Combe and Miss Romaine Combe. Preb Leith Boyd performed the ceremony, and Mr John Paton, late Grenadier Guards was best man. The honeymoon is being spent in the south of France.

The funeral of Charles John Short, of 23 Sunnyside, East-the-Water.

The funeral took place at the Higher Cemetery, Bideford, of the late Mr William Hearn of Coronation Road, Bideford. The Rev W T Kershaw officiated.

We regret to announce the death of Mrs Braithwaite, wife of Canon Braithwaite. The deceased lady was the eldest daughter of the late Mr E U Vidal, of Cornborough, near Bideford. She began Church work at a very early age, being a Sunday School teacher at the age of 12. She spent a great part of her time in visiting people, though the Church and village were 1½ miles from her home. Canon Braithwaite’s father was curate of Bideford, where the Canon was born, so he and his future wife knew each other from a very early age. Mrs Braithwaite was one of the earliest secretaries of the GFS being appointed by the Rural Deaneries of Hartland and Torrington. The deceased lady had been in declining health for some three months and suddenly became unconscious and sank to rest.

Death and funeral of Bideford tradesman, Mr Edward Pridham.

Bradworthy news.

At the opening of the new skittle alley, in connection with the ex-Service Men’s Institute, a competition for a silver cup, given by Mr C Gloyn, resulted: Bradworthy, 719 points, Bradworthy, 717, Langtree, 716, Hartland, 701, Hartland and Buckland Brewer, 681 each, Morwenstow, 653, and Bradworthy, 649.

The Bradworthy Branch of the Women’s Institute.

There was an attendance of 42 at the monthly meeting of the Bradworthy Women’s Institute. Various competitions were judged by vote. Beautifully dressed dolls were entered for the doll dressing competition, and Miss Ream was the winner. Mrs Hearn won the box of chocolates for the best six penny articles, for which there were nearly 230 entries. Miss E G V Ashton was the winner of the best article made from dish-cloths. Candidates were nominated for next year’s committee, and tea was provided.

At Bradworthy, the bazaar and sale of work for the reduction of the debt on the Wesleyan Church, involved by the recent alterations and the installation of the electric light, took place in the Wesleyan Schoolrooms and garage. The bazaar was opened by Mrs Baker. The various stalls under the charge of a large body of willing hands, realized a gratifying sum. Tea was served. The evening concert was well attended and artistes from Holsworthy and Bradworthy gave an excellent programme, while the Wesleyan Choir rendered two anthems during the evening. The takings for the day amounted to £86.

The Young People’s Guild met in Bradworthy Wesleyan Church when Miss F Martin presided over a large company, Miss Brown gave an interesting paper on ‘Glimpses of the Cornish Coast’, whilst Mr H E Dunstar gave a talk on ‘geographical conditions that influence character.’ Misses J Balsdon and M Dunstan sang a duet, Mr S Wickett being the organist.

After an illness lasting only two days, Mr Joseph Hawkins passed away at Newlands, Bradworthy. The funeral took place in the Churchyard, the Vicar officiating. A large and representative gathering of parishioners was present.

A lecture on Canada dealing with emigration will be delivered at Buckland Brewer by Mr H S Cotterill, of the Colonization Department of the Canadian National Railways. The lectures will be illustrated by an interesting film depicting the life story of a British settler.

Buckland Brewer Wesleyan Missionary meeting.

A short memorial service for the late Queen Alexandra was held at All Saints’ Church, Clovelly. The service was conducted by the Rector, Rev T L V Simkin.

A very pretty wedding has taken place at All Saints’ Church, the contracting parties being Mr Walter Daniel, son of Mr William Daniel, Alwington, and Miss Violet Braund, daughter of Mr and Mrs Albert Braund, North Hill, Clovelly. Rev T L V Simkin officiated.

Sympathy for the family of Mr Thomas Andrew from Clovelly Church Council.

The news of the death of Mrs Brenchley, who passed away at the Gardens, Clovelly Court, was received by her many intimate friends with deep regret. Deceased had been failing health for some time but was able to receive the congratulations of her friends and neighbours on her 80^th birthday a month previous to her death. Quiet and unassuming in her manner, Mrs Brenchley possessed a warm hearted and generous disposition and was sincerely liked and highly respected by all who knew her. Much sympathy is felt for Mr H Tuke in his bereavement. The interment, which was appropriately of a quiet and simple character, took place at All Saints’ Church.

Clovelly news.

The juvenile holders of the ‘Society for the Propagation of the Gospel’ Missionary boxes in Clovelly have been entertained to tea by the Rector, Rev Simkin. Games of all kinds were indulged in during the evening and a very happy time was spent. Led by Mr P Ellis, hearty cheers were accorded to the Rector for his kindness.

At a committee meeting of the Dolton Horticultural Society, the annual report showed a deficit of £9 10s. This was accounted for by the extraordinary wet day, torrents of rain falling during the whole of the day of the annual show. Consequently, the gate was 300 less than the average attendance. The Committee are to be congratulated on getting off so lightly under the circumstances.

The death of Mr Henry Clemens, Upcott, Dolton, is announced.

Before Barnstaple County Bench William Newcombe was charged with trespassing in pursuit of conies at Fremington. He did not appear but wrote pleading guilty, expressing sorrow and his determination to ‘finish up with rabbiting altogether.’

The marriage of Constance, Lady Baird, of Fremington, and Lord Charles Kennedy, second son of Marquis of Ailsa, will be solemnised at St George’s, Hanover Square, London, on Tuesday, the 15^th inst. 

At Frithelstock, the funeral of Mrs A Hearn, of Catsburgh, takes place.

Hartland news.

Wesleyan bazaar at Hartland.

John Bromell, a young man, of Hartland, has his fine reduced.

Miss Stucley and party gave an entertainment at the Palladium in connection with the Hartland Branch of the NW Decon Conservatives Association. A three-part sketch was enacted and Miss Betty Stucley rendered two recitations. Mr Barry gave a couple of monologues, and others also contributed to the programme. A dance followed at which Mrs Frayne and Mrs T Prouse, Miss B Pillman and Mr Charles Barter were pianists. Mr W Heard was MC. There was a good attendance and refreshments were provided. Mr T Allin proposed a vote of thanks.

About 100 attended the Christmas party of the Women’s Institute at Hartland Palladium. A jazz band comprising a dozen members with Mrs T Prouse as pianist provided music for dancing. Solos were given by Mrs Huggins, Misses Florrie Colwill and Doris Pyne; recitations by Miss Foster and Mr John Colwill. Mrs A W Jeffery presided. An enjoyable time was spent.

At Hartland, an outbreak of fire was discovered at the Council Schools by men working on the playground. After investigation it was found that the house containing the heating apparatus was alight.

Mr John Prouse who was for many years ‘hind’ for Mr Hutchings at Warmleigh died at West Street, Hartland, after a long illness. The funeral was at the Cemetery, Pastor Trudgeon officiated and Mr F Christmas was the organist.

Amid manifestations of sorrow the funeral took place at the United Methodist Cemetery of Mrs W J Goaman, of Hartland, who was beloved by everyone with whom she was acquainted. The officiating ministers were Revs Dennis and Trudgeon. The bearers were Messrs Cory, T Jeffery, J Pickard, J Cruse, J Slee and R Wade. Many friends awaited the cortege at the Church.

Instow news.

A delightful concert was given in the rifle hall in aid of the church funds. The following artists assisted: Miss C Alford, Mrs F Burden, Miss L Harper, Mr W Frayne, Mr Sydney Harper, Mr Kingdon, Mr F A Lile and several choir boys from the Barnstaple Parish Church.

Instow whist drive.

The death occurred at Lane End of one of Instow’s oldest parishioners, the person of Mrs E Pidler, who was in her 86^th year. Deceased came of a well-known Instow family, and her husband was for many years the village postman.

News of the death of Mr Chamberlain Hinchliff, of Hillside, Instow, will occasion deep regret among a wide circle of friends in North Devon. Deceased died at Southampton where he had gone only the previous day. Deceased was the eldest son of the late Major Hinchliff, who for many years lived at Worlington House, Instow. He was educated at the old United Services College, Westward Ho! where he was a scholar at the same time as Rudyard Kipling. He spent most of his subsequent life farming in the Argentine. As in England on his return he played a good deal of polo. He figured prominently in the polo tournaments, and matches that were held many years ago at Fremington, and also played in other parts of the country.

The death occurred at Bridge Cottage, Instow, of Mr Edward NanceKivell, an ex-member of the police force, at the age of 60 years. Deceased was stationed at Instow ten years prior to his retirement. The last years of his life were spent gardening, and he carried out the duties of gardener for Mrs Critchley-Salmonson and General Kelham. He was well-known in public life in Instow, was an active member of the Conservative Club and the Rifle Club, He leaves a widow, two sons and two daughters. 

Landcross Wesleyan Church – Chapel re-opened after renovation.

A missionary lantern lecture was given by the Rev Nelson in the Langtree Church Room, and was much appreciated by the large audience.

The Rector, the Rev Bernard Hallowes, preaching at Langtree, and alluding to the death of Queen Alexandra, said looking back over the long period in which she had been Princess of Wales, Queen, and Queen Mother, they remembered especially her warmth of heart, her sympathy, and her readiness to help the cause of charity which owed so much to her. She won the love of the English race throughout the world. A muffled peal was rung after the service.

A branch of the Women’s Constitutional Association has been formed in Langtree parish in which Petersmarland has joined. Many members have joined. Mrs Hackwill, Luddon, has been elected Chairman, and Mrs S Cole, Secretary.

Memorial service held on Lundy Island.

It was reported that the weather on Lundy Island had been most tempestuous and half an inch of ice was noticed for the first time during the last 25 years.

Doctors for Lundy – insurance committee’s scheme.

The Vicar of Appledore completed his 30^th trip to Lundy in ss Lerina, that is 1,500 miles, and conducted some bright Christmas services, which were well supported.

Petty Officer Signalman Smith, Mrs Smith and Miss Irene Smith have left Lundy for good, as Mr Smith is transferred to Dungeness Signal Station. Mr Millbond from Burnt Island has relieved Mr Smith. Mr Otley is also leaving Lundy to join the same staff but will wait for Mr White to join Lundy Staff from Dungeness. 

Rev E S J D’Alessio, BA, has been licensed to the curacy of Northam.

Northam Artizans Club at dinner at the King’s Head Hotel.

Mr Walter Withecombe, butcher, of Northam, pleads guilty and the case is dismissed.

The marriage was quietly solemnized at Bideford of Mr R W Littlejohns, second son of Mr Littlejohns, builder, Northam, and Miss Ada Jeffery of East view, Meddon Street. The Rev C B Crofts officiated and the best man was Mr T Littlejohns, brother. A large number of friends from Northam and Bideford were present and included the Vicar of Northam, Rev G G Payne Cook, and Mr and Mrs Lanyon Nickels. The honeymoon is being spent at Devon port and Dartmouth. 

The funeral of the late Mrs Scott, of Cleftridge, Northam, widow of the late Captain Osmund Scott, of Smytham, took place at Little Torrington Church, the Rev H D F Pollock officiating. Messrs C Broad, T Copp, W Turner, H Brimacombe, W Palmer and H Weeks acted as bearers.

The funeral of Mrs Becklake of Holwell Farm, Parkham, takes place.

The Missionary Meeting was held at Parkham Wesleyan Chapel. Mr W Joslin presided and the address was given by Mrs Halstead. Missionary recitations were given by Maud and George Chubb, Lizzie Piper, Edith Heal, Gwen Honey, Doris Huxtable, Herbert Heywood, Herbert Smith, Reg Heal and Cecil Heddon. Miss E Martin’s box contained £5 18s which good amount is the second highest of any individual effort in the Bideford Circuit.

A successful whist drive at Shebbear.

Troops from Shebbear, Black Torrington, Buckland Filleigh, and Shebbear College participated in a Boy Scout scheme arranged by Major Scott Browne, of Buckland Filleigh. They were subsequently entertained to tea at the College through the kindness of Rev and Mrs J Ford Reed.

The Vicar of Shebbear, Rev T E Fox, announces resignation.

Shebbear news.

Torrington memorial service for Queen Alexandra.

Pupils of Blue Coat School, Torrington, gave successful performances of the Christmas pantomime at the Town Hall. There were large attendances and great credit for the talented productions is reflected on Mr and Mrs Hopson, who were the joint organisers, assisted by Misses Passmore, N Norman, and Lake, and Miss F Atwill, who was the pianoforte accompanist.

Torrington Co-Operative Society, Ltd. for your Christmas shopping.

There was an informal meeting of the Trustees of the Town Lands and Town Council at Torrington Post Office for the opening of the extension.

Whilst playing football on a frosty ground, Fred Reed, a young man of Calf Street, slipped and broke an arm.

Prize winners at the ex-service men’s weekly whist drive were: Mrs Evans; Miss Murthwait; Mrs Pullen; S Popham; F Hutchings; E Baker.

The need for new instruments for Torrington Town Band was pointed out by Bandmaster J Vickery in a letter read at a joint meeting of the Town Council and Trustees of the Town and Alms Lands in the Council Chamber, the Mayor, Mr Charles Popham, presiding. Apart from an old cornet purchased about two years ago for £1 10s, nothing had been purchased since 1913, with the natural result that most of the old brass cornets were worn out and of no further use.

The Chairman, Mr J Squance, reported at the fortnightly meeting of the Torrington Board of Guardians that the House Committee had considered a report by Mr Duff, the Ministry’s Inspector, who was not satisfied with the casual wards and recommended the installation of a system of heating.

Fire at Torrington and two cottages, owned by Mr and Mrs Harry Mitchell, are gutted.

Later in the month … Mr J Puddicombe, referring at Saturday’s meeting of the Torrington Board of Guardians, to the recent fire when two cottages near the Workhouse were burned down, said reports circulated that water could not be got to the houses. He should like to know what position the Workhouse stood in case of fire? Mr Tippett said he understood that water was available the moment if was turned on from the reservoir. The difficulty was that it has not been diverted from the other part of the town to New-street. The moment that was done there was plenty of water, he believed.

The wedding of Mr Alfred Down and Miss Florence Gent at St Michael’s Church, Torrington.

The wedding was solemnised at the the St Michael’s Parish Church, Torrington, of Mr William J Cockwill and Miss Elinor Ebsary, third daughter of Mrs Ebsary and the late Mr Richard Ebsary, Cornmarket Street, Torrington. The bride was given away by her brother-in-law, Mr Bert Norman. Later in the afternoon the happy couple left for Meeth, their future home.

We regret to announce the death of Mr James Batten which took place at the residence of his daughter, Mrs R J Tippett, High Street, Torrington. Mr Batten was one of the oldest and most respected inhabitants of his native town and held various offices in connection with the religious and social activities of his generation. As a distinguished member of the Ancient Order of Foresters, he was twice called to the position of Chief Ranger which office he filled to the complete satisfaction of his fellow members of the ‘Queen of the West’ Court.

Mr Charles Hutchings, of Well-street, Torrington, was a staunch Churchman and a member of the Church choir for 45 years, a ringer and sidesman of the Church and a most prominent member of the Torrington Bowling Club, and was very respected. A very active participant in all kinds of sport for 25 years, he was a Colour Sergeant in the old Volunteer Regt.

At Westleigh, the funeral of the late Mr Charles Oliver takes place.

An interesting meeting was held at Rockingham, Westward Ho! The chairman, Mr G M Doe, expressed his pleasure that a centre of Theosophical Society was now established in the district. For her subject, the speaker, Mrs Lavender, MA, LLA, took “Have we lived before?” Anyone who would care to join the study class, or who would like any further information is invited to communicate with Miss Foll or Miss Fuller.

Westward Ho! Art Club – junior exhibition.

The financial result of the GFS entertainment at the Station Hall, Westward Ho! was a follows: Receipts – Tickets, £28 12s 9d, sweets and programmes, £5 15s 3d – total 334 8s, and expenses – printing £1 8s, acting fees, 33 15s, gas fittings, 13s 9d, carting chairs, 15s; sundries, 3s 3d – total £6 15s, leaving a balance of £27 14s to pay off debt on piano and make improvements to the stage and hall.

Mr W Jeffery, professional golfer, of Weston-Super-Mare and late of Westward Ho! is reported to have died suddenly on the links at Weston.

Aubrey Andrew, farmer’s son, of Dipple Farm, Woolsery was summoned for being in possession of a gaff with the intention of illegally taking or killing salmon by means thereof. Defendant did not appear, but sent a letter hoping to be excused attendance as he was the only one at home to feed and look after the cattle.