Ceremony dating back over 350 years

Television turned its spotlight on Friday morning on a Bideford ceremony dating back over 350 years. On the table in the Mayor’s Parlour were 40 2lb. and ten 1lb. loaves which, in accordance with a bequest in 1605 by John Andrew, a wealthy Bideford merchant, were distributed on New Year’s Day to elderly people of the town.

Under the TV photographer’s flood-lamps recipients filed in, happy to maintain an old tradition and to receive their loaves. First to receive a loaf was 70 year old Mr Thomas Yarde, of Providence Row, who also took a loaf for a 78 year old neighbour . Among others photographed were Mrs Saunders (71), Mrs B.M. New (72) and Mr James Gayton (78).

Gazette article 8 January 1960