Bideford Grammar School - 2nd July 1929

Winners OF Free Places

The successful candidates at the recent examination for free places are as follows: R A H Hunkin - Torrington Council School; W A Cork - Abbotsham Church of England; R G Baldson and P S Kelly - Bideford Council; J H W Lamey and H Ford - Appledore Council; T D Hooper - Bideford Council; E C Griffey - Northam Church of England; H W D Blackmore - Bideford Council; R G Pomeroy adn R Nancekievill - Hartland Council; and J K Symons - Merton Church of England.

Trader's New President - 5th April 1963

Pictured is 33 year old Mr Basil Pidgeon, the new president of Bideford Chamber of Trade.
An Old Boy of Bideford Grammar School, Mr Pidgeon is a director of Messrs Wickhams, the wine merchants, who he joined straight from school in 1945.
He is a prominent worker for the Boy Scout movement and is secretary of the 2nd Bideford Boy Scout Group Committe and chairman of the Torridge branch of the B.P. Scout Guild.

Former Town Clerk Was 'Father of Bideford' - 10th April 1959

The 'Father of Bideford' was how the Mayor, Mr A C Hooper, described Mr F C Backway, former Town Clerk for 25 years, when, at Bideford's ancient Manor Court ceremony on Saturday, he presented him with a water colour of Bideford Town Hall and Bridge. Mr Backway recently retired for health reasons. The Mayor praising his work during 54 years of service to the borough, said that Mr Backway had been a member of 38 committees at the time of his retirement. 'We are all deeply sorry that he

The longest distance young bird race ever attempted by Bideford fanciers proved an outstanding success for the Racing Pigeon Club.

Eight pioneers sent their best candidates to compete in this classic marathon held in conjunction with the West of England Continental Amalgamation. Some doubts expressed prior to the race, that the distance from Margate of approximately 245 miles would prove beyond the physical capacity of immature pigeons of about six months of age. Such was not to be the case, however.
Race controller Waldron after consultation with liberator Hancock, decided to release the racers at 7.30am in ideal weather

Marjorie Marshall Cornwall - 16th March 1946

36 Cadogan Place
SW1
March 16 1946
Dear Mr Stapledon
Many thanks for your letter of the 12th March. Your arrangement with Mrs Striemer is a good one, I think, and I hope will work satisfactorily. Thank you very much for your kind trouble. With regard to Northam House, I do very definitely require the tennis court to be relaid as before with grass in the same state as Mrs Donnell took it over. I have now written twice to Mrs Donnell about this matter and asked her to pay over the cost

Good For Appledore, But Even Better For Tom! - 10th April 1959

It was a happy day for Appledore when young Tom Parsons arrived to take up his first teaching job, but it was an even happier day for Tom because that job led directly to the girl who, 50 years ago on Tuesday, became his bride. He and his wife recalled their first meeting when a Bideford Gazette representative talked to them at their home, Ferriwais, The Quay, Appledore. In Mr Parson's class at the Church School was girl named Gladys Tuplin. One day when he was going on

Lifeboatmen’s Surprise for Coxswain and his Bride

Mr Sidney Cann, 57 Irsha Street, Appledore, coxswain of Appledore lifeboat, and Mrs Ruth White of Cranford House, Westward Ho! who were married at Westward Ho! Baptist Church on Saturday had planned a quiet wedding, but members of the lifeboat crew had other ideas.
Under the leadership of the engineer, Mr L G W Richards, they formed a guard of honour outside the Church and gave the couple ‘a roaring send-off’. Rockets soaring into the air set all the local dogs barking, Mr Richards told the Gazette, and indicated to Capt P Brennan,

Tomorrow, is the golden wedding of Mr and Mrs John Robert Seed, of Beryl Garth, 8 Rectory Park, Bideford.

For 22 years, until her retirement in 1958, Mrs Seed was headmistress of Bideford Church Infants’ School.
Mr and Mrs Seed were married at St George’s Church, Barrow-in-Furness. Both were born in that district. Before her marriage Mrs Seed was Miss Myra Walker. At one time the two families lived in the same street – Storey Square. Both were Sunday School teachers at St George’s.
Mr Seed is now 82 and his wife, 75. They are in good general health except for

Mr J H Mayne and Miss M Hooper

The wedding took place at St Mary’s Church, Bideford, on Saturday of Miss Margaret Hooper, younger daughter of Mr and Mrs K Hooper, 31 Clifton Street, Bideford East, to Mr John Henry Mayne, eldest son of Mrs and the late Mr Mayne, of Grimsby.
The bridegroom is a lance-corporal in the RASC.
The Rector of Bideford, Preb J A Durling, officiated at the wedding ceremony, assisted by Rev A Watson. Mr J R Trigger was at the organ. Miss Vivienne Gutsell was bridesmaid. Best man was Sgt Cliff Cooper, RASC, friend of

The wedding took place at Appledore Congregational Church on November 25 of Mr John Henry Rendle , eldest son of Mr and Mrs W Rendle, 32 Market Street, Appledore, to Miss Vera Ann Cummings, only daughter of Mr and Mrs G H Cummings, 14 Glendale Terrace, Bideford.

The service was conducted by Rev J W Edge and the organist was Mr J Beara.
Given away by her uncle, Mr L Randall, the bride wore a full length gown of white figured brocade and a veil held in place with a headdress of orange blossom. She carried a bouquet of pink carnations

At St Mary’s Church, Bideford, the wedding has taken place of Mr Joseph Hoyle Pilling, son of Mr and Mrs Pilling, Bacup, Lancashire, and Miss Constance Joan Short, only daughter of Mr and Mrs A E Short, 6 Montague Place, Clovelly Road, Bideford.

The Rector of Bideford (Rev J A Durling) officiated.
The bride was attended by two friends as bridesmaids – Misses June Lewis and Shirley Clarke. The bridegroom’s brother, Mr Leslie Pilling, discharged the duties of best man. Mr Eric Whittaker and Master John Short were ushers.
At the reception, which was held at Tanton’s Hotel, Bideford, guests expressed

Golden wedding of Mr and Mrs H A Edwards.

A veteran Bideford bellringer, who was once described as the youngest in the country, celebrated his golden wedding on Sunday.
He is Mr Herbert Allan Edwards, 10 North Road, Bideford. In 1912 Mr Edwards married Miss Marguerite Louise (Daisy) Paddon, his employer’s daughter, at Bideford Parish Church, and the couple still live at the same house from which they were married.
A native of Petrockstowe, Mr Edwards served his apprenticeship as a carpenter and joiner with the firm of Adams and Paddon, and lodged with his employer at North Road.
Both

Three names of special local interest were included in the New Year honours list.

Mr Thomas G B Cocks, the Clerk of the House of Commons, who is to be made K.C.B, is a native of Northam, and son of the late Mr J H Cocks, of Reed House, an Appledore shipbuilder.
Col (Acting Brigadier) John Richards, Royal Marines, who is appointed C.B.E, came to live in the Torridge area when he was chief instructor, for several years in the early post-war period, at the Officers’ School white it was at Bickleigh and Plymouth.
Major Nigel Speller, who was in

In the Gazette edition dated 5 January 1973

Births
Newton – On December 12th 1972, at NDDHMU to Pauline (nee Auberton) and Paul, a daughter, Hayley.
Wright – On December 18th 1972, at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Jeremy and Anna (nee Cross), a son, Barnaby John, a brother for Toby.

Engagements
Bond-Petherick – Both families have pleasure in announcing the engagement of Susan, daughter of Mr and Mrs R Petherick, 8 Stanhope Terrace, Bideford, and Philip, son of Mr and Mrs F G Bond, ‘Homeland’, Bucks Cross.
George-Grills – Mr and Mrs J Grills, of Sessacott, Putford, have pleasure in announcing the

2s 6d Label Inside Egg

A Bobby on a bike is a rare sight these days – altogether too rare, many people think.

But PC John Ferris and his cycle are a common and often comforting sight to the people of Appledore – where he lives – Westward Ho! and Northam. When, on his transfer to Bideford from Newton Abbot, Chief Supt Reg Goldsworthy offered him this country beat he jumped at the chance. 

The full Gazette article is dated 24 October 1975

Katie Holds Court On Her 100th Birthday

Births, Engagements and Marriages

Chugg – On January 26 1973, a Berkeley Cottage Hospital to Elizabeth (nee Carder) and Bill, a son
Dennis – On January 29 1973, at the NDDHMU, to Marilyn (nee Lawrence) and Ernie, the gift of a daughter, Sharon Jane, sister for Stephen.
Ellis – On January 16 1973 at the NDDHMU, Barnstaple, to Robert and Glenis (nee Ebsworthy) the gift of a baby daughter Teresa Marie. Sincere thanks to all concerned.
Lester – On January 23 1973, at the NDDHMU, Robert and Christine (nee Plumb) were blessed at last by a wonderful son, Morley Lewis. Grateful thanks to the

Rector’s Apology at Bideford Wedding

The wedding ceremony of Mr Michael Bonetta and Miss Helena Davies was, it seemed, completed and the congregation sat back in their pews as the bridal party walked from the altar to the Lady Chapel, where the register was to be signed. It was then that the bridegroom asked the Rector ‘When do I put the ring on the bride’s finger?’

The full Gazette article is dated 27 February 1959

Bideford Rugby Club player and team secretary, Mr W T M Bonetta and the secretary of the Supporter’s Club, Miss Helena Davies, were married on Saturday at St Mary’s Church, Bideford.

Mr Bonetta is the only son of Mr and Mrs J Bonetta, of 1 Stanhope Terrace, Bideford, and Miss Davies is the second daughter of Mrs A M and the late Mr Davies of Mount Pleasant, High Street, Bideford. The Rev T Derwent Davies officiated accompanied by Mr J R Trigger on the organ. The bride was given away by her uncle, Mr Reginald Mitchell. The best man was

To the Editor, Bideford Weekly Gazette,

Dear Sir
May I contradict two mis-statements that have appeared in the columns of your paper with reference to the Suffragettes at Clovelly?
The first one is that we accused Mr Asquith on the golf links of ‘being a beast and a coward’. Then, further down in the column, you say ‘On their return to the village, Mrs Jones, their landlady….. said she did not desire their company longer.’
Both of these statements are absolutely untrue. We never called Mr Asquith a ‘beast’/ What we did say to him was ‘Receive our deputation on

Sir,
On my return home after some weeks absence, I have read in your columns a report of the Suffragist meeting held on 30th January.

I notice that the meeting was held under the auspices of the National Union of Women’s Suffrage Societies. It was claimed for this body that it was non-militant and non-party, but apparently this claim was put forward by the chairman of the meeting, and by the chairman only. None of the speakers seem to have thought it worth while to urge this claim – possibly from notives of discretion. It was left for Mr McNeill Martin

Celebrating their golden wedding next Wednesday will be Mr and Mrs James Henry Bedler, of 90 Pynes Lane, Bideford.

For 45 years they lived at Bowden Green, moving to their present address last November.
Mr Bedler, who is 74, was formerly a member of Bideford Town Council’s outdoor staff. Although his health is not of the best, he gets about indoors. His wife, who before her marriage, was Miss Lillian Mary Jenkins, is 69 and in active health.
Of the six surviving daughters four live in Bideford. The daughters are: Mrs L W Braund of Stucley Road; Mrs G Lockyer

Wedding at Northam

Many friends, including golfers and members of Bideford Rugby Club, attended Northam Parish Church, on Saturday, for the wedding of Mr Thomas Norman Trickey, second son of Mr and Mrs W H Trickey, of ‘River Glean’, Windmill Lane, Northam, to Miss Hester Mary Dimmock, elder daughter of Mrs Dimmock, formerly of Wimbledon, and now of Harrow, and of the late Mr W Dimmock.
The bride was given away by her uncle, Mr Frank Dimmock. Her sister, Miss Edna Dimmock and a friend, Miss Doreen Sharp, attended her as bridesmaids. The Vicar of Northam, Rev E B Bridger,

Published in the Gazette 9 February 1951

Brend - On February 4 1951, at home, to Edith and Cephas, a daughter (Susan Rachel), a sister for Stella
Moore - On February 1 1951, at 'Wooda', Northam, to Dorothy, wife of Jim Moore, the gift of a daughter.
Sharman - On January 30, 1951, at Ismalia, Egypt, to Barbara, wife of Sydney Garrick, the gift of a daughter (Melanie Grace)
Trigger - On January 27 1951, at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Flora, wife of James Trigger, the gift of a son (Christopher John). Grateful thanks to doctor and staff.

Silver wedding

Rook-Braunton - On

For a third year running two Bideford girls have reached the finals of the national youth old-time dancing contest.

Marilyn Tyrell, who is 14, and Karen Watson, 13, whose families are neighbours at Hillcrest, East-the-Water, won their way into the finals at Redruth.
When they compete in the finals at Wembley in March, the girls will have travelled 20,000 miles in tournaments throughout the country.
Gazette article dated 2 February 1973 - photograph dated 9 February 1973

Police Chief Supt A J Lobb, divisional commander for H division of Devon and Cornwall Constabulary, talks with local area members of the Special Constabulary who received long service awards at a gathering at Barnstaple.

On the extreme left is Divisional Commandant H G Ellis, left to right are Messrs F Thomas, R Bradford, J Pearce, C Diwell and E Webber.
Gazette article is dated 23 February 1973

Clovelly and Hartland links

Plans were eagerly made at Cheriton Farm, Hartland, for a golden wedding party on Tuesday; then they had to be postponed.
Tuesday was the golden wedding anniversary of Mr and Mrs Thomas Edward Finch, for many years of Clovelly.
Mr and Mrs Finch were married at All Saints’ Church, Clovelly, by the Rev T L V Simpkin, Mrs Finch being Miss Caroline May, the youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs John May, of Dyke Green Farm, Clovelly.
Mr Finch, whose home was at Robbs Farm, Cavendish, Suffolk, came to Clovelly in 1889 as gardener to the

Gazette article dated 16 February 1973

Births

Hocking - To Barrie and Susan (nee Young) at Sheffield Hospital, a son, a grandson for Mr and Mrs C Hocking, Peverell, Plymouth.
Patt - On February 9 1973, at Treliske Hospital Truro, to Michael and Tina, a daughter, Jenny Rose, a sister for Jason.
Turner - On February 6 1973, at the Queens Maternity Hospital, Cirencester, to Ann (nee Symons) and John, a daughter, Karen Louise, a sister for Richard.

Engagements

Blight-Willis - Both families have great pleasure in announcing the engagement between Roger, only son of Mr and Mrs R Blight, 1 Rolles Terrace, Buckland

An interesting event in Buffaloism took place at Ye Kingsley Lodge, Bideford, when Brother Harry Pickard, KOM, provincial grand master, raised several Brothers to the second degree.

Knight Stacey of Ye Barum Lodge presided, and was supported by a large company of Barum Lodge brethren, representatives from the Capstan Lodge, Ilfracombe,
being also present. The following Brethren were raised to the 2nd degree: Bros T Cleverdon, F H Bryan, J H Palmer and R Palmer of Ye Kingsley Lodge; Bros G E Davolls, J Tour, C W Shillum and N Pine of Ye Barum Lodge. The Sponsors were Bros C F Miles, CP,

Gazette dated 2 March 1973

Blight – On February 22 1973, to Nadine (nee Balkwil) and Roger, at Leicester Royal Maternity, a daughter, Melanie.
Buckley – On February 10 1973, to Margaret and Michael, a son, Adrian James, a welcome brother for Susan, Sally and Patrick.
Fee – On February 24 1973, at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Brian and Penny (nee Oliver), a gift of a son. Grateful thanks to staff and doctor.
Gardner – On February 20 1973, at the NDDHMU, to Della (nee Trapnell) and Roger, a daughter, Rachel Mary, a sister for Ann Louise.
Husband – On February 23 1973,

Miss Shirley Ann Yeo, only daughter of Mr and Mrs John Yeo, 3 Market Street, Appledore, was married at St Mary’s Church, Appledore, on February 19th to Mr William Hall, 21 Mowbray Road, Sunderland. 

Rev R C Dixon conducted the service. Mrs Parkes was at the organ. Miss Dilys Owen and Miss Sylvia Down, cousins, were bridesmaids, and another cousin, Jonathan Day, was pageboy. Mr Howard Jordon was best man. A reception was held at the Appledore Hall, after which the happy couple left to honeymoon in London and Sunderland. The wedding cake was the gift of Mrs Ada Rendle. 

Full

Hearn – On March 21 1973, at the NDDHMU, to Michael and Susan (nee Hare) a son, Marcus Patrick.Mitchell – On March 26 1973 at the NDDHMU, to Roy and Clare, a daughter, Charlotte Elaine, sister for Andrew. Grateful thanks to all concerned. 

Williams – On March 18 1973, at the NDDHMU, to Terry and Jenny (nee Moyse), God’s gift of a daughter, Amanda, a sister for Joanna. Grateful thanks to all concerned. 

McMurray-Tucker – the engagement is announced between Michael, second son of Mr and Mrs D J McMurray, of Saunton Golf Club, Saunton, and Pamela, only daughter of Mr and Mrs

The wedding took place on Saturday at Appledore Congregational Church of Mr Christopher Hamilton Curd, of Kilmorie, West Yelland, Fremington, and Miss Marjorie Godbold, eldest daughter of Mr and Mrs W Godbold, of Engeldene, 29 Myrtle Street, Appledore. 

The Rev W E Haggett officiated, organist was Mr J Beara. Bridesmaids were the bride’s sister, Suzanne, and the bridegroom’s sister, Ann. Best man was Mr M Green. Following a reception at Durrant House Hotel, Northam, Mr and Mrs Curd left for a honeymoon in Jersey. 

Among presents received were a silver cigarette case and table lighter and a barometer from the staff

The wedding of Mr Michael Day, youngest son of Mr and Mrs R Day, 3 Grenville Terrace, Northam, and Miss Janet Mary Pierce, elder daughter of Mr and Mrs H Pierce, 6 Morwenna Park Road, Northam, has taken place at Northam Congregational Church. 

The Rev A E Green officiated at the service. The organist was Mr H Littlejohns and the bridesmaid was the bride’s sisters Ruth. Best man was the bridegroom’s brother Lawrence. Following a reception at the Royal Hotel, Bideford, Mr and Mrs Day left for a honeymoon in London.

The full Gazette article is dated 5 April 1968.

Mr Terrence John Rostock, only son of Mr and Mrs D Rostock, 31 Royston Road, Bideford, and Miss Pamela Irene Joslin, elder daughter of Mr and Mrs D Joslin, 4 Dunn’s Close, Wrafton, were married at St Augustine’s Church, Heanton.

The Rev L Ruffle officiated. Bridesmaids were the bride’s sister Pauline and her cousin Sharon Cark, the pageboy, the bridegroom’s cousin, was Peter Joy and best man was Mr Phillip Stevens, brother-in-law of the bridegroom. 

Following a reception at the Agricultural Inn, Braunton, Mr and Mrs Rostock left for a touring honeymoon. 

Among the presents received were bathroom scales and

Mr James Michael Walsh, only son of Mr and Mrs J Walsh, 9 Greysands Crescent, Appledore, and Miss Marilyn Rose Jewell, youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs J Jewell, 25 Tomouth Road, Appledore, were married at St Mary’s Church, Appledore, on Saturday. 

The Vicar, Rev R C Dixon, officiated at the service and the organist Mrs Parks accompanied the hymns. The matron of honour was the bride’s sister, Mrs Jennifer White, and the senior bridesmaid, Miss Sonia Miles, a friend. Best man was Mr Leslie Pike. Following a reception at the Rose of Torridge Cafe, Bideford, Mr and Mrs Walsh left for

A playing member of the Torrington Football Club, Mr Eric John Beer, eldest son of Mrs and the late Mr A Beer, 130 New Street, Torrington, and Miss Margaret Elizabeth Weeks, only daughter of Mr and Mrs N G Weeks, 8 Potacre Street, Torrington, have been married at Torrington Parish Church.

The Vicar, Rev P G Harrison, officiated. The bridesmaids were Miss Judith Beer and Miss Jayne Edgecombe. Best man was Mr Michael Tyler. After the reception at the Globe Hotel, Torrington, the couple left for a honeymoon touring Berkshire and Oxfordshire. 

The full Gazette article is dated 11 April 1968

Marriages

Ford-Boswell – on April 2 1968 at Fladbury, Worcestershire, Colin Michael, elder son of Mr and Mrs M Ford, of Frithelstock, to Sarah Ellen, daughter of Mr and Mrs L S Boswell, of Evesham.

Luke-Coles – on April 2 1968, at St Nectan’s Church, Hartland, Robert James Luke, of Plymouth, to Margaret Joan Coles, of New Inn, Hartland. 

Mitchell-Haywood – on 30 March 1968 at St Mary’s Church, Bideford, by Rev T Derwent Davies, Andrew, only son of Mr and Mrs J H Mitchells, 119 Clovelly Road, Bideford, to Patricia, only daughter of Mr and Mrs T L Haywood, 92 Clovelly Road, Bideford. 

A vintage 1922 Rolls driven by her uncle, Mr D Johns, of Instow, carried Miss Gillian Elizabeth Westacott to her wedding at Bideford Baptist Church and, afterwards, took bride and bridegroom to a reception at Instow. 

Miss Westacott, only daughter of Mr and Mrs Ronald Westacott, 2 Lansdowne Terrace, Bideford, married Mr David John Hall, only son of Mr and Mrs Donald Hall, 52 Newnham Avenue, Eastcote, Middlesex. The Minister of the Baptist Church, where the bride is a Sunday School teacher, Rev Alan Fleetwood, officiated, assisted by a former minister, Rev Eric F Knight. Mr A Moorefield accompanied the hymns. Bridesmaids

The wedding has taken place at Lavington Congregational Church, Bideford, of Mr Paul Francis Morrish, only son of Mr and Mrs E Morrish, 3 Rockmount Terrace, Bideford, and Miss Valerie Joyce Steer, only daughter of Mr and Mrs L Steer, Holmfield, Torrington Street, Bideford. 

The Rev Gladys Smith officiated and the organist, Mr D Whittington, accompanied the hymns. Bridesmaids were the bride’s cousins, Misses Susan and Carolyn Davis and Michelle Jeffery. Best man was Mr Dennis Waters and the ushers were Messrs Albert Harris, bride’s cousin, and John Hare. Horseshoe good luck tokens were presented to the bride by Michelle Jeffery

Mr Keith William Eldridge, second son of Mr and Mrs G Eldridge, 58 St Nicholas Road, Wallingford, and his bride, Miss Jean Margaret Badcock, only child of Mr and Mrs A C Badock, 21 Coldharbour, Bideford. 

They were married at St Mary's Church, Bideford, a report appearing in an earlier issue. 

Gazette dated 11 April 1968

The marriage took place at St Mary’s Church, Bideford, of Mr Clifford John Palmer, eldest son of Mr and Mrs A Palmer, 2 Stanhope Terrace, Bideford, and Miss Sheila Margaret Bliman, youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs D J Bliman, 3 Barton Tors, Bideford.

The bridegroom is a member of the Appledore Inn darts team. The Rector, Rev T Derwent Davies, officiated and Mr J R Trigger accompanied the hymns. Bridesmaids were the Misses Alexandra Palmer, Caroline Bromell, and Tracey Little. Andrew Little was the page. Mr Stuart Palmer was best man. A reception was held at the Royal Hotel, Bideford.

Among

The wedding has taken place at St Mary’s Church, Bideford, of Mr Andrew Paul Mitchell, only son of Mr and Mrs J H Mitchell, of 119 Clovelly Road, Bideford, and Miss Patricia Ann Haywood, only daughter of Mr and Mrs T L Haywood, 92 Clovelly Road, Bideford. 

The bridegroom is a member of the Swan B skittles team and of the Bideford Blues football team. The Rector, Rev T Derwent Davies, officiated at the service. The trumpet voluntary was played. Organist was Mr J R Trigger. Chief bridesmaid was the bride’s cousin, Miss Janet Haywood, and the other bridesmaid, the bridegroom’s

Mr D G Pengilly and Miss J M Sanders at Langtree Parish Church

The wedding has taken place of Mr Dennis George Pengilly, only son of Mr and Mrs G Pengilly, 41 Old Town, Bideford, and Miss Joan May Sanders, younger daughter of Mr and Mrs J Sanders, South View, Stibb Cross. The bridegroom is a playing member of Northam AFC. The Rector, Rev R A Wallington, officiated at the service and Miss Boundy accompanied the hymns. The two senior bridesmaids were Misses Pat Curtis and Vonnie Johnson, the small bridesmaid was Carol Wood and the page boy, Michael Burch. Best man was

The wedding of Mr Graham White, youngest son of Mr and Mrs J White, 26 New Street, Appledore, and Miss Angela Mary Bond, twin daughter of Mr and Mrs E Bond, 34 Irsha Street, Appledore, took place at St Mary’s Church, Appledore. 

The bridegroom is a member of Bideford Amateur Rowing Club’s junior championship crew and was also a member of the club’s novice championship crew. 

The Vicar, Rev R C Dixon, officiated at the service and Mrs Parks, at the organ, accompanied the hymns. Bridesmaids were Misses Susan Lee and Rachael Folly, friends, and the bride’s niece Margaret Hopkins. The

23 March 1973

Beer – to David and Ruth, God’s gift of a daughter, Natasha Eve, born on February 14, in the Empress Zauditu Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Franklin – on March 3 1973 to Peter and Susan (nee Budden) a son, Charles Anthony. 20 The Broadway, Charlton on Ottmoor, Nr Islip, Oxford

Gale – on March 10 1973 at the NDDHMU to Elizabeth (nee Klein) and Alan, a daughter, Karen. 

Grigg – on March 10 1973, to Diane (nee Chamings) and Michael Grigg, a second son

Grills – on March 11 1973 at NDDHMU to Bob and Kay (nee Huxtable), a son, Zach Robert,

There was much interest in a double wedding at St Catharine’s Church, Chipping Camden, Glos, on Easter Monday, at which one of the brides was Miss Sheila Mary Seward, youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs J R Seward, of Tor-Croft, Raleigh, Bideford.

She was the bride of Mr David Noel Cotterell, youngest son of Mr and Mrs Cotterell of Gypsy Spring, Broadway, Worcs. The wedding of his brother, Mr Paul Cotterell, to Miss Hazel Longmore, took place at the same time. 

David, who is employed in the Midland Bank, was for a time stationed at Appledore during his service in

Mr F A S Hoare and Miss J N Rudkin

Fellow members of Bideford Rugby Club formed a guard of honour with an archway of corner flags at the Church porch to greet Mr Fred Alan S Hoare and his bride, Miss Jean Nelson Rudkin, after their wedding at St Mary’s Church, Bideford, on March 23rd. The bridegroom, known to most of his friends as ‘Curly’ is a member of Bideford Rugby Club Chiefs and is also a well known local cricketer. He is the only son of Mr and Mrs Hoare, of 107 Lime Grove, Bideford. The bride is the eldest

29 April 1966

Bennett – On April 26th 1966 to Mary (nee Branch) and Ian, God’s gift of a daughter, Amanda Jane. First grandchild to Mr and Mrs Bennett, Eastleigh Village. 

Braddick – On April 26th 1966 at the North Devon Infirmary, to Dorothy and Graham, a daughter (stillborn).

Morris – On April 23rd 1966 at the North Devon Infirmary, to Sheila (nee Waldon) and David, a son, Richard Stanley.  

Jones-Stanbury – the engagement is announced between Alan, only son of Mr and Mrs Victor Jones, Avondale, Abbotsham Road, Bideford, and Marcia, only daughter of Dr and Mrs W Stanbury, Stewardstone, Folly Gate, Okehampton. 

 Announced in the Gazette on 1 April 1966

Jones – On March 22nd 1966, to Geraldine (nee Prouse) and David, of Elmslea, Pitt Hill, Appledore, the gift of a son (Simon Gerald David), a brother for Michelle. 

Potter – On March 22nd 1966, at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi, to Jean (nee Palmer) and David, a daughter (Ruth), a sister for Anne, Keith and Ian. 

Stevens -  On March 27th 1966, at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Julie (nee Beck) and Brian, a daughter (Zoe), a sister for Mark. 

Vanstone – On March 25th 1966, at Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Jean (nee

Retirement of Miss I P Bow of East-the-Water

A family association with East-the-Water Primary School extending back some 70 years enters on a new phase when Miss Ida Phoebe Bow, of Newland, Mines Road, Bideford, retires on April 29th after 41 years as reception teacher at the School. 

One of a family of seven children, all of whom were taught there, Miss Bow subsequently returned to it as a teacher and now the association is being continued by her niece, Miss Christine Bow, who has been appointed to succeed her. A Bideford Gazette reported, who interviewed Miss Bow at the school,

20 May 1966

Birch – On May 16th 1966 at Cambridge, to Ida Anne (nee Burrow) and Peter, the gift of a son. 

Curtis – On May 16th 1966 at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Jill and Bob, a son, Neil Robert, brother for David and Anna.

Ferguson - On May 18th 1966 at the North Devon Infirmary, Barnstaple, to Josephine (nee Hitchcock) and Jeremy, a blessing of a daughter, Elizabeth Josephine Louise, a sister for Paul. 

Hopkins - On May 15th 1966 to Prunella (nee Bond) and John, a daughter, Margaret Ann. 

Prouse - On May 8th 1966 at the Grenville Nursing Home, to

Bideford’s PC’s unusual pastime

Under-water swimming and fishing is the unusual pastime a Bideford policeman plans to pursue this summer.
At least once a week the policeman, 25 years old Guy Thrupp, and a schoolmaster friend, will pack up their equipment – sponge rubber suits, face masks, flippers and harpoon guns – and make the long trip to Cornwall to explore the ocean depths off the coast of Tintagel.
At his home at 5 Chudleigh Avenue, Bideford East, PC Thrupp, who has been stationed at Bideford for nearly three years, talked about his hobby to a Bideford Gazette reporter.
Full Gazette article

Mr and Mrs Wilfred (Pip) Walter’s dearest wish was that their second baby should be a boy – a brother for their three-years-old daughter, Marilyn.

That wish came true.

It was a boy – Mark Anthony. But it was Mark Anthony’s arrival into the world which makes the headlines. Scene was 3 Barton Cottages, Abbotsham. Time was the early hours of the morning. Storyteller is Mr Wilfred Walter, 28-years-old farm worker. In an interview with a Bideford Gazette reporter, he said: ‘My wife Pat told me it was time I got her to the hospital so I dressed and went to fetch the car in the

7 June 1963

Powell – on June 2nd 1963, at the NDI, to Margaret (nee Weeks) and Nicholas, the gift of a daughter, Lorriane Anne.
Williams – on June 5th 1963 at 20 Hugh Dickson Road, Colchester, to Mary (nee Screech) and Len, a daughter, Linda Yvonne.

Saunders-Gilbert – the engagement is announced between Keith, eldest son of Mr and Mrs L Saunders, Cherry Trees, Brancombe Road, Tiverton, and Wendy, only daughter of Mr and Mrs R Gilbert, 16 Fort Terrace, Bideford.
White-Jewell – Mr and Mrs J Jewell, Tomouth Road, Appledore, have pleasure in announcing the engagement of their elder daughter, Jennifer, to

There was much local interest in the wedding at Lavington Congregational Church, Bideford, on Saturday, of Mr John Langdon, second son of Mr and Mrs S Langdon, 102 Lime Grove, Bideford, and Miss Sylvia Mary Cole, elder daughter of Mr and Mrs C H Cole, 19 Glendale Terrace, Bideford.

Until her marriage the bride was employed by the Bideford Gazette Ltd. The bridegroom is a member of the staff of the National Provincial Bank Ltd, at South Molton.
The Minister, Rev A J Herring, officiated and Miss D Cox was at the organ. Miss Barbara Cole, the bride’s only sister,

Golden wedding dinner

There was a big surprise awaiting Mr and Mrs Fred C Nicholls of 81 Honestone Street, on Sunday. 

It was their golden wedding day and, naturally, an occasion for family reunion, lovely flowers, good luck tokens, greetings telegrams and 35 cards. But to crown it, and unknown to them, the family sprang the surprise of a special celebration dinner all together at the New Inn Hotel. Adding to the surprise was the presence of a favourite nephew and niece, Mr and Mrs Bill Davies, of Taffs Wells.
Born in High Street, where his father had a small

‘Blimey, I come this way twice a day and this is the first time I have not stopped; I have done it for two years,’

This was the comment of Reginald Waldron, 4 Kenwith Terrace, Bideford, when called on to stop after failing to observe a halt sign at Chanters Lane, Bideford, on January 25th, stated PC Adams at Bideford Borough Court when Waldron was summoned for the offence. Defendant failed to stop at the halt sign and came into the main road at a speed of 5 to 7mph, added the constable. A letter from the defendant was read by the

1 July 1966

Bale – At the Grenville Nursing Home on 28th June 1966, to Diana (nee Fishwick) and Terence, a daughter (Tracy Jayne), a sister for Claire. 

Redcliffe – On June 23rd 1966, at St Brenda’s Nursing Home, Clifton Park, Bristol, to Janet and Ralph, God’s gift of a son (Andrew John).

Edwards-Lee – The engagement is announced between Anthony, son of Mr and Mrs L A Edwards, of Castle Street, Torrington, and Barbara, daughter of Mr and Mrs A Lee, Clayton House, Hackney, London
Keen-Gent – Mr and Mr F J Gent, 20 Town Park, Torrington, have pleasure in announcing the engagement

To celebrate the anniversary of Ye Kingsley Lodge, no 4329, RAOB, a dinner was held at The Ship Tavern Hotel, The Quay, Bideford on Wednesday last.

Primo E H Bryan was in the chair, supported by Primos T C Trengrove (Ye Barum Lodge), R Palmer, T Cleverdon, J H Palmer, and B Blanco. There were about 50 Brothers present.
Dinner was served at 8pm by the hostess (Mrs Snell) and, judging by the happiness and smiles of all present, it was evident that the ‘good things’ were very appetising. After several toasts had been submitted a concert was given and

The Gazette has been given a ‘pat on the back’ by an Australian newspaper.

In September last we published a story and photographs of ‘The Lonely Man’s Grave’ as it is known to people on Phillip Island, off the Australian mainland. The grave, situated on an isolated cliff top, is that of Capt William Phillip Grossard, of Bideford, Devon, who served for many years in the merchant service and was killed by gunfire on December 17th 1868. In a December issue of the Phillip Island News the Gazette story is reproduced with the comment: “Such items as the above make

 15 July 1966

Cole – On July 8th 1966 at Highfield, Barnstaple, to Barbara (nee Cole) and David, a daughter, Deborah Julie.
Richardson – On July 11th 1966 at the Hospital, Barnstaple, to Annette (nee Downing) and Stanley Richardson, a brother for Louise, Timothy.
Stanbury – On July 5th 1966 at 62 Bowden Green, Bideford, to May Elizabeth (nee Brown) and Kenneth John, the gift of a daughter, Petina Claire.

Cann-Carter – The engagement has been announced between Judith, elder daughter of Mr and Mrs D S Carter, 73, Clovelly, and Roger, only son of Mr and Mrs A Cann, Barnstaple.
Dennis-Whitlock – Mr and

8 July 1966

Blackmore – on July 2nd 1966 at the Grenville Nursing Home to Sheila (nee Richards) and Ian, God’s gift of a daughter, Annette Nicola, a sister for Andrew.
Hopkins – On June 21st 1966 at Albany, West Australia, to Juliet (nee Braund) and Brian, a son, Simon Philip, a brother for Nicola.
Jones – On July 6th 1966 at the Grenville Nursing Home to Susan (nee Black) and Michael, a daughter, Samantha Hayley, a sister for Stephen.
Withecombe – On July 2nd 1966 at the Grenville Nursing Home to Julie and Reginald, a son, Barry James.

Newton-Aubertin – the engagement was announced

31 July 1964

Harris – On July 19th 1964 at Fernlea, Pitt Hill, Appledore, to Marie (nee Branch) and Vernon, a son, Andrew George, a brother for Peter. 

Matthews – On July 25th at 15 Lime Grove, to Colin and Fay (Martin), a daughter Nicola Jane, a sister for Angela.

Babb-Sanders – The engagement is announced between Richard David, elder son of Mr and Mrs R T Babb, 9 Clifton Street, Bideford, and Patricia Ann, only daughter of Mr and Mrs H M Sanders, Corner Cottage, Chanters Lane, Bideford.
Benny-Portus – The engagement is announced between Malcolm Richard, younger son of Mr and Mrs

Golden wedding memory of Capt and Mrs J T Harris

The moment his ship docked in Cardiff, Seaman J T Harris dashed ashore and headed for Newport because the ship was staying for only a week and Mr Harris had many things to do.
Arriving at Newport he met his fiancée and made final arrangements for their wedding. The next day they were married at Commercial Road Baptist Church and found time to have a honeymoon before the ship sailed again, this time to South America.
That was fifty years ago and on July 24th, Captain Harris and his wife,

24 June 1966

Found – On June 22nd 1966 to Jacqueline (nee Dingle) and George, God’s gift of a daughter, Alison Jayne. Grateful thanks to all at Grenville Nursing Home.
Littlewood – On June 15th 1966 in Glagow, to Marlene and Arthur, a son, Simon Wentworth, 3a Dalavich, Yaynuilt, Argyll.
McCourt – On June 18th 1966 at Grenville Nursing Home, to Jillian (nee Glover) and John, a daughter, Jacqueline Mary, sister for Sean.
Marsh – On June 22nd 1966 to Jenny (nee Worth) and Tony, a son, brother for Deborah.
Scott – On June 18th 1966 at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Beverley (nee Lewarne)

Nearly seventy years ago there emigrated to Canada, with his wife, Mr Fred J Harris, and today, at the age of 88, Mr Harris is ‘still going strong’, and is a keen reader of the Bideford Gazette.

He says he finds something interesting in each issue to remind him of his younger days and the old locality. 

Mr Harris must have outlived most of his contemporaries but there are relatives living in Bideford and Buckland Brewer still.
He is the last surviving son of the late Mr and Mrs J Harris, of Buckland Brewer, and his late wife was Miss

When, five months ago, Paul was born to Mrs P Jeffery, wife of Mr Jeffery, of Clovelly Road, Bideford, he made the fifth generation of a family that has lived in the Woolsery and Clovelly areas for many years.

In this celebration picture great-great-grandmother Mrs C Prowse, aged 92, is seen nursing young Paul. On the top left is her only daughter, Mrs F Knight, of Sunnyside, Woolsery, with whom she makes her home. Next to Mrs Knight is her only daughter, Mrs W Jewell, of Lower Burscott Farm, Clovelly, and bottom left, is Mrs Jeffery, Mrs Jewell’s daughter, who

Friends Near and Far

The death occurred on Monday of Mr Robert R Deubler, of Old Bank House, High Street, Bideford, at the age of 62.
For thirty-nine years Mr Deubler had been associated with the business life of the town in an individual way.
He first opened as a stationer in the High Street, subsequently extending his business to take in the Old Bank premises. These he converted into a delightful morning coffee and tea shop, behind which he carried on his business interests in artistic household materials and art needlework, the selectiveness and good taste of which assured

11 September 1945

Bettiss – August 26th 1945 at 85 Eastbourne Avenue, Gosport, to Muriel (nee Beattie), wife of Marine R J Bettiss, a son, Raymond John.
Braund – September 5th at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Edith, wife of Grenville Charles Braund, a son.
Johnstone - September 1st at Hinstock, Market Drayton, to Elsie (nee Buse), wife of WHR Johnstone, ERARN, a son, David Rae.
Kline – September 5th at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Marjorie, wife of Kenneth Kline, US Navy, a son, Michael James.
Whitaker – September 10th to Mr and Mrs G Whitaker, 14 North Road, Bideford (nee Sylvia

30 August 1963

Dymond – August 15 1963 at Grenville Nursing Home, to Margaret (nee Snell) and William, a son, Peter William Thomas
Ellis – August 19 1963 at the Grenville Nursing Home to Pat (nee Marshall) and Brian a daughter, Sharon Anne
Hillman – August 26 1963 at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to John and Gillian (nee Taylor) a daughter, Joanne Elizabeth, a sister for Nicholas

Mills-Davey – engagement announced between Brian, son of Mr and Mrs Mills, East Lyn, Torrington, and Rosalind, daughter of Mr and Mrs Davey, Town Park Estate, Torrington

St Mary’s Church, Bideford, was decorated for the wedding on September 15th of Mr William Henry Vodden, son of Mr and Mrs W H Vodden, 20 Milton Place, Bideford, to Miss June Margaret Dann, daughter of Mr and Mrs A E Dann, Smythan House, Clovelly Road, Bideford. 

The wedding ceremony was conducted by Rev A J C Beddow. Mr Godfrey Sellers was at the organ.
The bride was attended by four bridesmaids - Misses Shirley Dann, Brenda Dann, and Patricia and Barbara Davis. Two small attendants were Miss Diane Sparkes and Master Tony Davis. The duties of best man were carried

6 September 1963

Trewin – September 4 at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Eunice (nee Hunkin) and Denys, a son, Neil Alastair
Stephens – August 21 at 1A Boringdon Villas, Plymouth, to Beryl (nee Case) and Roger, a daughter, Beverley Jane

De Bank-Beer – engagement announced between Peter, son of Mr and Mrs De Bank, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, and Wendy, daughter of Mr and Mrs Beer, 5 Glebe House, Abbotsham
Heywood-Clark – engagement announced between John Nigel, son of Mr and Mrs H M Heywood, Yellowsands, Westward Ho! and Diane, daughter of Mr J Dudley Clark and the late Mrs I Clark, Kirkby-in-Ashfield

With their two daughters, three year old Sally Ann, and 16 month old Edwina, Mr and Mrs Eric Colwill, of 64 Barton Tors, Bideford, have decided to emigrate to Australia. 

Mr and Mrs Colwill, who have been married for four years, are emigrating under the Australian Government’s sponsorship scheme. They believe more opportunities will present themselves to the family than here at home.
“I have seen quite a few friends going to the technical college and then perhaps ending up in the blouse factory” said Mrs Colwill. She believes that Bideford cannot offer her children the same opportunities as Australia.

23 October 1945

Dymond – October 17th at Beech Hill Nursing Home, Barnstaple, to Margaret (nee Perryman), wife of Kenneth Dymond, Moss Side, Old Bideford Road, a daughter, Margaret Ann.
Martin – October 19th at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Eileen (nee Green), wife of Ldg Sto. Harry Martin, a daughter, Carol Jean.
Shaw – October 16th at the North Devon Infirmary, to Ruby (nee Johns), wife of John Shaw, Duerdon Cottage, a son, Christopher John Edwin.
Stirrup - Saturday October 20th at Littlecroft, Bideford East, to Mr and Mrs J B Stirrup, (Civilian Mil Gov Com, BAOR), a daughter.
Weeks – October 15th at

Kim Brewer of Bideford, competing against some of the most talented young pianists in the West Country, was runner up in the ‘under 14’ section of the Bristol heat of the national junior playing competition last week.

Kim, who lives with his parents and sister at ‘Anstruther’, Raleigh Hill, was told by Mr Harrison ‘for a boy of 11 you were surprisingly good’. The youngest competitor, and the only one to sit at the £2,000 British concert grand piano in short trousers, Kim has been playing since he was seven.
The full Gazette article is dated 8 October 1965

Special Decorations for Bideford Ceremony

St Mary’s Church, Bideford, was beautifully decorated with a floral arch and eight large vases of flowers arranged in an avenue in front of the choir seats for the recent wedding of Miss Amy Broad, winner of the ‘Charming Bride’ competition organised by the Strand Cinema, Bideford, in July.
There was a large attendance at the church to see the wedding and the decorations.
Miss Broad is the second daughter of Mr and Mrs R Broad, West Down, Newton St Petrock, and her bridegroom Mr John Sinclair Mitchells, only son of Mrs E

Northam House - 28th February 1946

28 February 1946
Messrs Smyth-Richards & Stapledons
Bideford
Dear Sirs
Northam House
He would take possession as soon as the house becomes vacant and is made ready for his occupation.
He would pay a rent of £125 per annum and would of course pay the rates.
He would take the house for a term of 7, 14 or 21 years but nevertheless determinable at the Tenant's option at the end of the 7th or 14th year.
After the house has been put in good and tenantable repair he would make himself responsible for internal

Bideford achievement

Less than a year after her sister Brenda was made a Queen’s Guide, Janet Bartlett, younger daughter of Mr and Mrs W E Bartlett, of 8 Meadowville Road, Bideford, has achieved a similar distinction.
This ‘double’ is believed to be unique in local Guide companies, although Bideford and District Girl Guides’ Association now has two mothers on its committee each of whom has had two daughters as Queen’s Guides – Mrs Bartlett and Mrs Dymond.
Janet, who was 16 last month, is a pupil of Edgehill College. She is a member of the 1st Bideford Company of Girl Guides