Family Gathering at Appledore

There was a notable family gathering at no. 4 New Street, Appledore, on New Year’s Eve when the oldest woman in Appledore, Mrs Matilda Lamey, celebrated her 95th birthday.

Seven of her eight surviving children, five of them old-age pensioners, came in to wish their mother a happy birthday. They brought with them gifts and congratulations from her eighteen grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren.

Although six of Mrs Lamey’s children live at Appledore, they had not met all together in this way for years.

So on New Year’s Eve Mrs Lamey’s eldest daughter, Mrs Ada Revely, John,

Framed personal letters

Today at the Amphibious Trials Detachment at Fremington Camp, Major-General R W Madoc, Major General Royal Marines, Portsmouth, is presenting the Commander-in-Chief Portsmouth’s Commendation to three Admiralty civilian employees at Fremington in recognition of their rescue attempt when two amphibian vehicles sand in the sea off Westward Ho! in March.

The three men are Messrs. John Bowden , of Bideford, George Slade , of Appledore, and F S Wood , of Northam. At the same time they will each receive a framed personal letter from Commodore The Right Hon. The Earl Howe, chairman of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. These

2 February 1968

Blackmore – January 18th to Sarah (nee Houldridge) and Michael, a daughter, Trudi
Mounce – January 27th at the North Devon Infirmary, to Sylvia (nee Squire) and Aubrey John, a daughter, Katherine Mary, a sister for Elizabeth.
Patt – January 23rd to Derek and Glenda (nee Friendship), a son, Philip John.
Vincent – January 31st at Southmeads Hospital, Bristol, to Carol and Barry, a daughter, Ann Louise, a sister for Colin

Rendle-Rowe – On January 27th at St Mary’s Church, Bideford, Colin Lewis, son of Mr and Mrs R C Rendle, 132 Clovelly Road, Bideford, to Jennifer Anne Rowe, niece of Mrs

5 November 1965

Johnson – At the Women’s Intermediate Hospital, Brisbane, Desley (nee Slatter) and Keith, happily announce the arrival of a daughter, Shelley Ann, born October 31st 1965: first grandchild of Mr and Mrs Alf Johnson, formerly of Westleigh: and first great-grandchild of Mr and Mrs Charles Shambrook, 24 Meddon Street, Bideford.
Lockyer – On October 24th at 38 Western Avenue, Appledore, to Rhona (nee Evans) and John, a daughter, Deborah.

May-Stokes – The engagement is announced between Mr K I May, of Kitale, Kenya, son of Mr and Mrs S J May, of Purley, Surrey, and Tessa, daughter of Rear Admiral

3 May 1968

Bond – April 29th at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Grenville and Valerie (nee Vodden), a son, Sean Martin, a brother for Kelvin.
Brend – On April 30th at the North Devon Infirmary, to Tony and June (nee Ridd), a son, David Alan, a brother for Andrew.
Taylor – April 26th to Barrie and Maria (nee Pennington), a son, Simon Richard.

Coates-Grail – The engagement is announced between the Rev Anthony Coates, only son of Mr R Coates, of Rushmere St Andrew, Suffolk, and the late Mrs Coates, and Anthea, only daughter of Mr and Mrs P R Grail, Mallows, Mount

4 February 1966

Hurrell – To Jill (nee Bidgway) and Malcolm, a son, Jeremy Charles, brother for Dale.
Perryman – On January 28th 1966 at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Eileen (nee Drew) and Roy, a son, Neil.
Seymour – On February 2nd 1966 at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Jennifer (nee Smallridge) and Keith, a daughter, Jane Louise, a sister for Amanda, Mark and Paul.
Whiteland – On January 30th 1966 to Pamela and David, a brother for Neil.
Williams – On January 31st 1966 at Netherwood Hospital, Solihull, to Vera (nee Martin) and Kenneth, twins, Susan May and Alan Glyn, a brother and

7 January 1977

Griffiths – On January 4 1977, at Queen Mother Hospital, Glasgow, to Angela (nee Turner) and Christopher, a son Russell Morton.
Hare – On December 26 1976, at the NDDHMU to John and Hazel (nee Thomas), a son, Matthew. Welcome brother for Jonathan.
Thompson – On January 1 at the NDDHMU, to Richard and Christine (nee Lee), a daughter, Helen Marie, a welcome sister for Michael.
Yarde – On January 1 to Michael and Cynthia (nee Lamey), a son Brian James.

Dymond-Burgess – Both families are pleased to announce the engagement of Steve, eldest son of George and Rosalind Dymond, and Jane,

Mr and Mrs Leslie Homewood have just achieved an ambition.

Ever since they left Stoke, Hartland, in 1963 when Mr Homewood was transferred by the Coastguard Service to the Lizard as Station Officer, they have longed to return to North Devon. Now they are back with Mr Homewood’s appointment to Hartland and District Officer.

It was at Hartland that Mr Homewood joined the service in 1957. In June 1968 he was transferred from the Lizard to the Orkney Islands as district officer and after four years he was transferred to divisional headquarters at Wick in Scotland.

His new area stretches

6 January 1942

Barr – January 5th at Upper Lodge, Westward Ho! to Lilias (nee Robertson) and Lieut William Martin Barr, RA, a son, James Spruan Martin.
Blackmore – December 30th 1941 at New Barn Farm, Woodcote, near Reading, to Marion (nee Becklake), wife of Arthur Bennett Blackmore, a son, Roger Brian.
Chamings – January 1st at the Nursing Home, Torrington, to Mr and Mrs T A Chamings, Higher House, St Giles, the gift of a daughter.
Guard – January 4th at Glenwood, Clovelly Road, Bideford, to Margaret Joyce (nee Ferrett) wife of F S Guard, Chivenor, Braunton, the gift of a daughter, Margaret

5 January 1968

Bosher – January 1st at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Milly and Christopher, a daughter, Nicola Jane, sister for Richard.
Ebsworthy – December 29th 1967 at the North Devon Infirmary, to Muriel and Sonny a son, Paul.
Hudson – Saturday December 30th 1967 to Alice and Michael, a daughter Charlotte Ann, a sister for Nicola and Suzanne.
Prust – December 19th 1967, to Alice and Ken, a son, Stephen William Sinclair, a brother for Kevin.
Wadey – December 28th to David and Pam (nee Warren), a son, Mark Warren.

Beal-Green – The engagement is announced between Pauline, daughter of Mrs B E

4 January 1963

Davie – December 28 1962 to Richard and Ann (nee Keen) a daughter, Claire

Dent-Lee – Mr and Mrs S Lee, Westward Ho!, Torpark Road, Torquay, announce the engagement of their daughter, Joan Winifred, to Robin Graham Storey Dent, son of Mrs Barbara Dent, Straiton House, Buckleigh, Westward Ho!
Horne-Glover – Mr and Mrs D G Glover, Maycroft, 50 Clovelly Road, Bideford announce the engagement of their daughter Dawn to James, son of Mr and Mrs B Horne, Greenfields, South Milton, Kingsbridge
Symons-Sims – Mr and Mrs F J Symons, 3 Ibex Court, announce the engagement of their son Fred to

Ten year old Sara Hodder

of Knowle, 111 Atlantic Way, Westward Ho! has become only the third youngster in North Devon to receive the top award in the Devon County Library Service’s good readers’ circle – a leather shield with her name inscribed in gold.

Of the three she is the second to come from the Bideford area. Katherine Wood of Bideford was the first to attain the award in October, a year after the scheme began.

The award is made to children scoring 1,000 points in the scheme, which aims to help children with their reading by awarding points varying

Search Locates A Cousin

The search by Mrs Pamela Smith, of Rostrevor, South Australia, for other descendants of her great grandfather, Thomas Judd, of St Giles-in-the-Wood, has succeeded. It has turned up another cousin.

He is Mr Derek J Hambly, of Judd Farm, Pyworthy, but, remarkably, the Judd after whom the farm was named had nothing to do with this family.

Mr Hambly has written to Mr Gordon Judd, of Westward Ho! whom Mrs Smith contacted in the first place, saying that he is the great-great-great grandson of Patience and Peter Judd, parents of Thomas and Frederick who, with their

30 December 1960

Garnsey: On December 23rd,1960, at ‘Crofton’ North View Avenue, Bideford, to John and Jennifer, God’s gift of a son (Stephen John).
Harrison: On December 25th 1960, at Gravesend and North Kent Hospital, to Monica (nee Cook) and Cyril, a daughter.
Hillman: On December 29th 1960, at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Sheila (nee Granger) and Trevor, a son (Stephen Andrew).
Marshall: On December 26th, 1960 at 16 Hyfield Place, Bideford, to Sylvia (nee Sanders) and Bill, a daughter (Sandra).
Money: On December 24th 1960, at 1 Oxman’s Cottages, Westleigh, to Heather (nee Martin) and John, a daughter

16 December 1960

Jaggard: On December 14th 1960, at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Joyce (nee Baldock) and David, a daughter (Dawn Sandra). Grateful thanks to all concerned.
Powell: On December 7th 1960, to Janet (nee Anscombe) and Kenneth, of Empire House, Westward Ho! a daughter (Julia).
Simpson: On December 11th, 1960, to Susanna (nee Cowell), wife of Dr J.H. Simpson, of Exeter, a son.

9 December 1960

Beer: On December 6th, 1960, at 15 Royston Road, Bideford, to Jacqueline (nee Guy) and Kenneth. God’s gift of a daughter, Jeanette. Thanks to all concerned.
Branch: On November 24th 1960 at North Devon Infirmary, to Betty (nee Clark) and Clifford, a son (David Allan).
Easterbrook: On December 8th, 1960, at the Grenville Nursing home, to Douglas and Jean (nee Prouse) a son, Robert James, a brother for Kenneth and Peter.
Hookway: On December 2nd, 1960, at 22 Brookfield Street, Bideford, to Victor and Jennifer (nee Fulford), a son (Kevin Victor). Grateful thanks to doctor and nurse.

Lieut A E Wood, RN, and Miss Doris Hobbs

Charming scenes were presented at the wedding at St Mary’s Church, Appledore, on Saturday, of Lieut (E) Arthur Edwin Wood, of Gosport, and Miss Doris Beatrice Hobbs, only daughter of Mr and Mrs F Hobbs, of Plymouth. The bride is a grand-daughter of the late Capt W Hobbs, of Appledore.

The Rev H C A S Muller, MA, RN, retd (vicar of Appledore) officiated. The service was fully choral and the happy couple were greeted by peals on the bells.

Miss Barrington was the organist.

The bride, who was given away

23 December 1966

Hodgkins – On December 15th 1966 at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Arthur Vivian and Monica (nee Newcombe), a daughter, Julie, a sister for Shane.
Williams – On December 17th 1966 at Colchester Maternity Hospital, to Mary (nee Screech) and Len, a daughter, Carol Jane, sister for Denise and Linda.

Blaney-Lang – The engagement is announced between John, only son of Mr and Mrs T W Blaney, St Jean, Old Barnstaple Road, Bideford E, and Jennifer, only daughter of Mr and Mrs P Lang, Longclose, Parkham.
Cawsey-Bennett – Mr and Mrs V R Bennett of 16 The Quay, Appledore, have pleasure

 30 December 1966

Allen-Spencer – Mr and Mrs F Spencer have pleasure in announcing the engagement of their second eldest daughter, Jennifer, 21 Barton Tors, to Graham, son of Mrs C Allen and the late Mr C Allen, 68 Stucley Road, Bideford.
Cornish-Towner – Mr and Mrs P H Towner, 54 Mill Street, Torrington, have pleasure in announcing the engagement of their eldest daughter Ann to Richard David, only son of Mr and Mrs A E Cornish, 3 Town Park Estate, Torrington.
Daniel-Andrews – Mr and Mrs G H Andrews, of the Lamb Inn, Honestone Street, Bideford, have much pleasure in announcing the

31 December 1954

Bradford – On Christmas Day, at Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Betty (nee Pickard) and Richard, a son (David Charles)

Cox-Sluman – The engagement is announced between Hilda, only daughter of B S M and Mrs C Sluman, of 21 Sunnyside, Bideford, and Leslie William, elder son of Capt. And Mrs W H Cox, Ryelands, Northam
Crocker-Down – Mr and Mrs R Down, Cranleigh, Westward Ho! announce the engagement of their daughter Margaret to David, son of Mr and Mrs Crocker, 4 Trecarrell, Launcester, Cornwall.
Mills-Blight – The engagement is announced between Muriel, daughter of Mr and Mrs R S Blight,

17 December 1965

Beer – On December 8th 1965 to Hilary (nee Southcombe) and Wilfred, a daughter, Jennifer Ann.
Day – December 7th at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Shelagh and Michael, a daughter, Ursula Rachel.
Hook – December 12th at 9 Morley Road, Sanderstead, Surrey, to Valerie (nee Hyne) and Charles, a sister for Paul.
Vincent – December 11th at Southmead Hospital, Bristol, to Carol and Barry, a son, Colin.

Baldry-Squire – Mr and Mrs A Squire, 29 Castle Street, Torrington, have pleasure announcing the engagement of their elder daughter, Janet, to Alan, only son of Mr and Mrs F Baldry, Harrow, Middlesex.
Bowes-Stevens

A Bideford widow, Mrs Vera Cawsey, became Father Christmas at a local shop.

She volunteered to do so after overhearing a child's disappointment on finding that the Father Christmas at Messrs Gale's in Mill Street was away through illness.

Mrs Cawsey, of 40 Clifton Street, donned the cloak and whiskers and filled the breach for two days.

She donated a reward for her services to Broomhayes children's centre at Northam.

Article dated 29 December 1972

24 December 1965

Quick – On December 15th 1965, to June (nee Branch) and Brian, a son, Jeremy James.
Thorp – On December 8th to Roselyn (nee Eastman) and Desmond, a daughter, Marie Josephine, at St Mary’s Hospital, Manchester.

Willcocks-Slade – Mr and Mrs T Slade, 58 Grenville Estate, Bideford, have much pleasure in announcing the engagement of their only daughter, Jennifer, to George, second son of Mr and Mrs J Willcocks of Higher Clovelly.

Cloke-Squires – On December 26th 1940 at St Mary’s Church, Bideford, Percival John Cloke to Eileen Vera Squires. Present address: Marester, Pynes Lane, Bideford.
Gray-Wilkey – On December 26th 1940

31 December 1965

Isaac – To Mr and Mrs B Isaac, 20 Victoria Grove, a Christmas Day brother for Carole and Jane.

Brock-Pengilly – The engagement is announced between Irene Elizabeth Rose Pengilly, of 80 Meddon Street, Bideford, and Colin George Brock, 5 Greenings Road, Buckland Brewer.
Clarke-Twose – Mr and Mrs F Twose of 1 Nelson Road, Westward Ho! have pleasure in announcing the engagement of their youngest daughter, Thelma, to Barry, only son of Mr and Mrs Clarke, 10 Myrtle Gardens, Bideford.
Curd-Godbold – Mr and Mrs W Godbold, 29 Myrtle Street, Appledore, have much pleasure in announcing the engagement of their

Perhaps the stork came to see the decorations,

for ‘The Stork Club’ was the theme of decorations in the maternity ward of Torrington Cottage Hospital over Christmas. Anyway, on Christmas Eve a daughter was born to Mrs Betty Catherine Sussex, of Torrington.

Here she is seen receiving one of her first visitors – Santa Claus with a gift for the new arrival. With her is the Matron, Miss Heath, and Sister Bricknell, of Taddiport.

It is two years since a Christmas baby was born at the Cottage Hospital – last year the maternity section was closed due to staffing problems.

Gazette article dated

4 June 1965

McLoughlin – On June 2nd 1965, at the North Devon Infirmary, to Olive and Jim McLoughlin, a son, Michael James, brother for Maureen and Ann.
Pope – On May 19th at the Grenville Nursing Home to Peggy (nee Brock) and Bill, a son, Roger Frank.
Smale – On June 1st to Margaret (nee Humphrey) and Jim, a daughter, Della Rose.
Wicks – On May 28th at St Mary’s Eastbourne, to Janet (nee Braddick) and Malcolm Wicks, a daughter, Fiona Mary MacKenzie, sister to Robert and Andrew.

Durant-Shields – Mr and Mrs J L Shields, of Hove, are pleased to announce the engagement

2 July 1965

Brown – On June 24th 1965 at the North Devon Infirmary, to Colin and Carol, a son, Gregg James.
Cook – On June 26th at the Edgware Hospital, Middlesex, to Margaret (nee Shute) and Ray, a daughter, Helen Louise.
Edge – June 23rd at Trowbridge and District Hospital, to Jane (nee Wootton) and Peter, a daughter, Caroline Louise, sister for Helen Jane.
Hayes – June 26th at the Grenville Nursing Home, to June (nee Stapleton) and Ivor, a son, Robert Dennis.
Jewell – June 29th at the Bristol Maternity Hospital, to Jill (nee Manning) and John, a daughter, Sara Ann.

Barker-Norman – Mr

2 April 1965

Adams – On March 26th 1965 at Musgrove Park Hospital, Taunton, to Anne (nee Pipe) and Gerald, a son, Guy Andrew.
Deakes – On March 29th at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Marlene (nee Edworthy) and Noel, a son, Simon Noel, brother for Ashley.
Lavers – March 28th at Royal Air Force Hospital, Wegberg, Germany, to Margaret (nee Rudkin) and Tony, a son, Alistair Guy.
Maxwell – March 28th at Plymouth, to Patricia (nee Raymond) and David, a daughter, Catherine Mary, sister for Jimmy.
Pryor – To Arthur and Frances, a daughter, Alison Mary, sister for Lindsay, second granddaughter for Mr and

Gazette dated 1 October 1965

Board – On September 24th 1965, at home, to Teresa (nee Maxwell) and Peter Board, a son, Damian John.
Daniel – September 28th at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Cynthia (nee Weeks) and Brian, a daughter, Annetta Janc.
Elston - September 22nd at the North Devon Infirmary, to Ann (nee Budden) and Eric, a son, Simon Charles.
Gilbert – September 20th at 94 Calf Street, Torrington, to Sheila (nee Heard) and Alec, a daughter, Melissa Jane. Born on Mum’s birthday.
Lee - September 26th at the Nelson Hospital, Wimbledon, to Anne and Michael, a daughter, Rebecca Jane.
Sanders – September 26th

2 October 1945

Collier – September 25 1945 at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Violet (nee Dark), wife of Edwin Collier, RAF, a son, Andrew John
Fry – September 27 145 at The Royal North Devon Infirmary, Barnstaple, to the wife of Drummer P Fry (nee May Sherbourne) twins, Anthony John and Jennifer Ann
Holdridge – October 1 1945 at Link View, Golf Club, Westward Ho! to Ellen (nee Kelly), wife of Morris Holdridge, East Yorks Regt, a daughter, Sarah Ann
Johns – September 20 1945 at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Beatrice, wife of Percy Johns, West Barton, Horwood, a daughter,

Gazette article dated 3 September 1965

Board – On August 30th 1965 to Francine and Michael Board, a son, which did not survive (no letters please).
Launder – On August 30th at 5 Springfield Terrace, Northam, to Jean (nee Andrew) and Frank, a son, Andrew Christopher.
Stacey – On August 21st at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Marion and Mervyn, a daughter, Jeanette.

Cade-Halliday – the engagement is announced between John Rosewarne, only son of Mr and Mrs R H Cade, of Sunny Hayes, Barns Road, Budleigh Salterton, Devon, and Ann, only daughter of Mr and Mrs D I Halliday, of Southernhay, Cranford Avenue,

Retirement Gifts

On her retirement at the weekend, after 26 years nursing service at Bideford and district hospital, Miss Marjorie Staddon, senior state enrolled nurse, was presented with parting gifts of a camera and accessories and a leather handbag.

These were handed to her on behalf of the doctors and staff by Dr I H Hewetson, consultant surgeon, who praised her services and conveyed their warm good wishes.

Gazette article dated 4 May 1973

4 October 1968

Hawkins – Wednesday, October 2nd 1968, to Mary and Ron, a daughter, Lynn Marie, a sister for Michael, Stephen and Angela.
Weeks – August 29th at Southmead Hospital, Bristol, to Ann (nee Blackmore) and Alan Weeks, a son, Philip Robert MacDonald.

Burrage-Symonds – Mr and Mrs E F Symonds, Lawnfield, Limers Lane, Northam, have pleasure in announcing the engagement of their daughter, Rosemary, to Colin, eldest son of Mr and Mrs C H Burrage, 2 Montague Place, Bideford.
Mellors-Carey – Mr and Mrs A J Carey have much pleasure in announcing the engagement of their elder daughter, Melanie Jane, to William

4 February 1977

Granger – On January 29 1977 at the GP Unit, Musgrove Park Hospital, Taunton, to Dee and Jim, a son Robin. Brother for Jamie.
Pengilly – On January 29 to Jennie (nee Parkhouse) and Keith, a son, Jason Keith.
Poole – On January 25 to Raymond and Mary (nee Marshall), a son Patrick Alan.
Potts – On February 1 at the NDDHMU to Barbara (nee Lang) and Terry, a daughter, Dawn Ruth. Sister for Rebecca.

Brinton-Martin – Mr and Mrs J Martin of Orchard Farm, Monkleigh, Bideford have pleasure in announcing the engagement of their daughter Ann to David, son of Mr

Jack and Marie

The first couple to marry from Torridge View Welfare Home, Torrington, Mr Jack Johns and the former Miss Marie Braund, after their wedding at Northam Register Office on Saturday.

The bridegroom is 78 and a widower: his bride still refuses to reveal her age, but the couple were at school together.

Mr Johns formerly lived at Dyke Green, Higher Clovelly, and has been at the old people’s home since last April. His wife, who it has been said, will be the last of the famous Braunds of Bucks Mills ever to marry from the village, left her

6 November 1945

Jeffery – November 1 1945 at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Ethel (nee Timms), wife of Walter Jeffery, of Jiffords Hele, Meeth, Okehampton, a son.
Kelly – November 5 at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Private and Mrs F J Kelly (nee Audrey Welch), a sister for Pat.
Maynard – October 31 at the Nook, Golf Links Road, Westward Ho! to Lilian (nee Pilcher) and Ronald Maynard, a daughter, Carol Francis.
Moore – November 4 at Beach Road, Westward Ho! to Mr and Mrs J Moore (nee Gwen Wilkey), a son, a brother for Fred and Jim.
Palmer – November 4

Mr J G Hallett and Miss E M Ford

An Appledore couple wed at the end of March are still waiting to go on honeymoon.

They are Mr James Gordon Hallett, only son of Mr and Mrs G Hallett, of Rosedale Cottage, Vernons Lane, and Miss Eileen May Ford, youngest daughter of Mrs and the late Mr F J Ford, 19 One End Street, who were married at Appledore Methodist Church.

Mr and Mrs Hallett’s honeymoon was to have been spent at Exmouth but on their way there the car they were travelling in was involved in an accident and

Married in London

Two serving members of the Royal Navy, who were married on Saturday at St. Stephen’s Church, South Kensington, SW7, united Torrington and Instow families.

The bride, a Leading Wren in the Clerical branch of the WRNS, was Miss Valerie Ann Finnamore, daughter of Mr and Mrs Bert Finnamore, 33 New Street, Torrington. The bridegroom, a radio and radar electrical artificer in the Royal Navy, was Mr Edwin John Martin, son of Mr and Mrs T Martin, Tennis View, Instow.

Mr Ashley Martin, the bridegroom’s brother, carried out the duties of best man.

The reception was held in

Mr and Mrs W J G Hearn

Yesterday was an especially happy day for Mr and Mrs W J G Hearn, of The Bungalow, Saltrens, Monkleigh, and their family, for a family party was held to mark Mr and Mrs Hearn’s golden wedding anniversary.

Mr and Mrs Hearn were married at Torrington Baptist Church by the Rev. Franklin Owen. Early in their married life they lived at Torrington, but since 1913 they have been at their present address.

They received many messages of congratulation and good wishes on the anniversary from friends over a wide area.

Mr William James Gribble

Golden wedding links with Frithelstock

Born near to each other 78 years ago at Frithelstock, Mr and Mrs Herbert Gill went to school together, married some years later and have now celebrated their golden wedding.

They now live with their son, tom, at Lower Hele, Bradworthy. Not far away lives their other son, Clifford, who travels each day from Woolsery to his work in a Bideford garage.

Mrs Gill, one of ten children, went into service at a Westward Ho! farm on leaving school at 13 and then returned to Frithelstock. On her marriage she and her husband continued living

Moving to Australia

A young Bideford postman looked out from his home at the lashing rain on Friday and commented: ‘Depressing isn’t it?’ And then he laughed.
He had good reason. For today he and his family fly to a new life in sunny Australia.

Mr John Evans, his wife Elizabeth and their sons Russell, Mark and Bruce will live in Maryborough, Queensland, a coastal town with a population of 17,000, about 150 miles north of Brisbane.

On leaving school Mr Evans learned his trade as a shipwright at Appledore shipyard before joining the Post Office at Bideford.
He later

1 March 1968

Bouchard – February 23rd at Gread Baddow, Chelmsford, Essex, to Ken and Rachel Bouchard, twin sons, brothers for Adrian and David.

Elston – February 20th at The Grenville Nursing Home, to Pat (nee Galliford) and John, a son, Nicholas, a brother for Stephen.

Hammett – February 25th to Jean (nee Sluman) and Terry, a daughter, Amanda Jayne.

Pope – February 20th at City Chester Hospital, to Margaret (nee Cox), a son, Simon Jared.

Raymont – February 25th to Dawn (Williams) and Bill, a daughter, Julie Dawn, sister for Christopher.

Wilde-Langley – Mr and Mrs J Langley, of Highview, Westward Ho! have pleasure in

1 January 1965

Crossley – On December 29th at Southmead Hospital, Bristol, to Peter and Pat (nee Dark), a son, Nicholas David, a brother for Simon.

Barrett-Weeks – Mr and Mrs R Weeks of 28 Park Lane, Bideford, have pleasure in announcing the engagement of their youngest daughter Kay, to Peter, only son of Mrs W Barrett of 34 Grainge Road, Crownhill, Plymouth.

Curtis-Edwards – The engagement is announced between Margaret, only daughter of Mr and Mrs J S Edwards, Beam, Torrington, and Geoffrey, only son of Mr and Mrs E W Curtis, 18 Salmon Pool Lane, Exeter.

Gale-Klein – Mr and Mrs J

1 February 1963

Evans - January 27 1963 at the Grenville Nursing Home to June (nee Screech) and Carey, a son, Mark Carey

Luck-Vicary - engagement is announced between Mr D Luck, of Bournemouth, and Pamela, daughter of Mr and Mrs Percy Vicary, Morvic, Bideford

Sayer-Searle - engagement is announced of Thora Edith, only daughter of the late Seymour Searle, and step-daughter of Mrs Searle, Littleham, and Harry Winstanley Sayer, Hoop's Cottage, Littleham, son of the late Mr and Mrs James Sayer, Burnley

Curtis-Twose - January 26 1963 at Northam Methodist Church, John Arthur, son of Mrs and the late Mr B Curtis, 51

 1 April 1977

Chopping – On March 22 1977 at the Torbay Hospital, Torquay, to David and Janet (nee Smith), a daughter, Anna.

Gordon – On March 24 1977 at Penrice Maternity Unit, St Austell, to Janet and John, a daughter, Cheryl. Smith – On March 25 1977 at the NDDHMU, to Peter and Linda (nee Lamey), a son, Andrew Frederick, brother for Michelle.

Hockridge – On March 11 1937 at Alwington Methodist Church, by the Rev John Ford Reed, Stanley to Winifred. Present address St Crispins, 33 Glenfield Road, Bideford.

3 April 1945

Spry – March 26 1945 at the North Devon Infirmary, Barnstaple, to Gwyneth, wife of Mr George Spry, a daughter

Uglow – March 22 1945, to Olive (nee Vigers), wife of Philip L Uglow, 41 Ashleigh Crescent, a sister for Margaret, Helen

Hall-Fulford – March 31 1945 at High Street Methodist Church, Bideford, by the Rev T E Clarke, Richard Orson, son of the late Mr and Mrs F Harold Hall, Holford, Somerset, to Daisy Mary, daughter of Mr and Mrs A E Fulford, Southcott, Bideford

Smith-Titley – March 29 1945, quietly in London, Major Ralph M Smith, Devonshire Regt,

3 February 1950

Rae – On January 29 1950 at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Ellen (nee Baldwin), wife of Alexander Rae, a sister for Bruce

Slee-Hill – the engagement is announced between Michael, only son of Mr and Mrs A Slee, of Sutton Raleigh, to Frances Jean, only daughter of Mr and Mrs H S Hill, of Holywell, Northam.

Gubb-Shepherd – On January 28 1950 at the Baptist Chapel, Bideford, Thomas B Gubb, second son of Mr and Mrs W C Gubb, 51 Meddon Street, to Gladys R Shepherd, third daughter of Mrs M J Shepherd and the late Mr L H

Tomorrow is the golden wedding day of Mr John Thomas Mitchell and his wife of 1 Stucley Road, Bideford.

Mr Mitchell is 78 and his wife 72. Before their marriage at St Mary’s Church, Bideford, Mrs Mitchell was Miss Ethel Louise Ackland.

Mr and Mrs Mitchell have a son and a daughter who are twins – Mr John Mitchell, of 49 Western Avenue, Appledore, who is a shipwright with Appledore Shipbuilders, and Mrs Joan Stevens, of 52 Pynes Lane, Bideford.

The golden anniversary is being celebrated with a party at their daughter’s home.

The full Gazette article is dated 6 April

7 April 1977

Parsons – April 4 1977 to Graham and Hazel, a son, Neil Graham, brother for Hayley.

Raymont – April 2 at the NDDHMU to Norman and Wendy (nee Bosher), a daughter, Katy, a sister for John.

Tremain – March 27 at Benoni, South Africa, to Lynne (nee Guillaume) and Brian, a son, Oliver Leonard, brother for Michelle.

Mules-Trick – Both families have great pleasure in announcing the engagement of Janet on her 18th birthday April 12, daughter of Mr and Mrs O Trick, 1 Brookfield Street, Bideford, to David, third son of Mr and Mrs C Mules, 6 Hatchmoor Estate, Torrington.

A Bideford couple who lived but two doors away from each other in their childhood celebrated their golden wedding anniversary on Saturday.

Mr and Mrs H Horrell, who were married at Bideford Parish Church in 1908 and live at 13 New Road, Bideford, were guests of honour at a surprise party given for them by their son, Mr Charles Horrell, 62 Stucley Road, Bideford.

Mrs Horrell, who is 72, seven years younger than her husband, does all her own housework. For many years Mr Horrell worked as a stevedore on Bideford Quay and now likes to spend his leisure time

Responded to call for active service

Ex-Coxswain Craner, whose son, Mr Stephen James Craner, was married on Saturday to Miss Lillian White, gave up all thought of the wedding in order to respond to the old call for active service and to assist in the launching of the lifeboat. The bridegroom has been a member of the Appledore lifeboat crew on several previous occasions.

The Vicar of Appledore, the Rev H C A S Muller, to officiate at the wedding had come up specially from Newquay. After the service, as local agent of the Shipwrecked Mariners' Society, he visited the

Congratulations to Mr and Mrs G Watts

Congratulations and best wishes to Mr and Mrs George Watts, of Lower Village, Westleigh, who on Wednesday quietly celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary – sixty years of married life! They were married at Barnstaple on February 14th 1885. Mr Watts is in his 86th year and Mrs Watts in her 81st and both have kept in fairly good health all their lives ‘through hard work’ as Mrs Watts puts it.

Before her marriage, Mrs Watts was Miss Elizabeth Ann Turner, daughter of Mr and Mrs W Turner, of Westleigh. She is a native of

Mr Kenneth W Beer, of 246 Kestern Road, Carinya Heights, Para Hills, South Australia, writes enclosing the above photograph of an interesting group of Gazette readers.

They are Mr and Mrs Alan Cobb, formerly of Lime Grove; Mr and Mrs Vic Bowyer, formerly of Bay View Road, Northam; and Mr Beer and his wife, formerly of Royston Road.

“Something we have in common” writes Mr Beer, “is that both Messrs Cobb and Bowyer were omnibus drivers with the Southern National, Bideford, where my father, of Montague Place, Bideford, is still employed. My former employers for 17 years were the North

Mr and Mrs Fred Patt, of 2 Buckgrove Cottages, St Giles-in-the-Wood

received congratulations from Mr E W Turner, also of St Giles, and chairman of Torrington Rural Council, on their diamond wedding anniversary last Friday.

When Mr Patt, who was born at Langridge Ford, left school at the age of 11, his first job was cracking stones, but most of his working life was spent as a farm labourer being employed by the late Mr Laurence Hookway, of Town Tenement, St Giles, and later by Mr Hookway’s son, Mr R L Hookway.

He is still very active and his main

At Hartland Wedding - 2nd March 1937

Bridegroom And Best Man In Light-Keepers Uniform

Both bridgegroom and best man wore their light-keeper's uniform at the wedding at St Nectan's on Saturday, of Mr Redvers Ewart, younger and only surviving son of Mrs Annie and the late Mr William Buckler, to Bessie Iverna R., younger daughter of Mr and Mrs Ernest W Pyne, of Blagdon. The weather cleared just in time for the ceremony.
The Vicar (Rev Ivon Gregory, R.D.) officiated, Mr G Burrow being organist.
The bride, who was given away by her father, wore a dress of white satin with

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

9 October 1945

Bennett – October 2nd at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Molly (nee Stone), wife of W G Bennett, a daughter, Gilliam Mary. 

Folland – September 25th at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Barbara, wife of Gnr V Folland, RA, BAOR, a daughter, Gillian Diane. Lived for only 12 hours.

Cork-Butler – October 3rd at St Mary’s Church, Bideford, by Preb W N Manning, George Henry, son of Mr and Mrs F Cork, of the Quay, Appledore, to Dora May, daughter of Mr and Mrs F Butler, Coronation Road, Bideford.

May-Dean – September 29th at St Mary the Virgin Church,

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

Five local people were each fined £4 by Bideford magistrates for leaving their cars at night without lights.

The five – Desmond Joseph Thorn of 2 Silver Street, Appledore; Rodney James Burland of 12 Forresters Road, Holsworthy; Andrew John Pedrick of 30 Brookfield Street, Bideford; David Harvey of 2 Quay House, Appledore; Christen Ronny Rudolf Svensson of 7a Dartington Fields – all pleaded guilty.
For a similar offence John William Hacker of 4 Myrtle Grove, Bideford, was fined £3.

Gazette article dated 20 October 1972

Sir

In these days when there is so much talk from dissatisfied immigrants to New Zealand, perhaps the experience of an old Bideford boy might help someone who is contemplating emigrating to this country.
First of all, let me say if anyone is prepared to adapt himself and work, New Zealand is the finest country in the world.
My wife and I left Bideford in 1907 and arrived in New Zealand just after a land boom and conditions were very difficult. As I was unable to secure a position at my own trade I took just was offering, viz. a

21 October 1966

Horn – On October 13th 1966 at the Cuckfield Hospital, Haywards Heath, Sussex, to Dawn (nee Glover) and Jim, God’s gift of a daughter, Fiona Alison.
Richards – On October 12th 1966 at Grevnille Nursing Home, to Christine (nee Stephens) and Michael, a son, John Stephen, brother for Anne.

Bowden-Welsford – Mr and Mrs C J Welsford, of Talbot Inn, High Street, Bideford, have pleasure in announcing the engagement of their daughter, Mary, to Graham, younger son of Mr and Mrs J Bowden, 6 Darracott Court, Irsha Street, Appledore.

Jones-Stanbury – On October 8th 966 at Okehampton Methodist Church, Marcia Elizabeth,

8 November 1963

Adams – November 6th 1963 at the Grenville Nursing Home to Peter and Valerie (nee Parkhouse) a son, David Jared William.
Brook – November 1st at 24 Calf Street, Torrington, to Janet (nee Beer) and Bill, a son, Andrew John.
Hocking – November 4th at 10 Ashley Terrace, Bideford, to Jennifer (nee Cottle) and John, a brother for Julia.
Shambrook – November 7th at 17 Victoria Grove, Bideford, to Irene (nee Down) and Brian, a daughter, Rebecca Irene.
Whitfield – October 31st at 47 Beaufort Road, Church Crookham, Hants, to Elizabeth (nee Maxwell) and Ian Whitfield, a daughter, Susan Tamsin.

Martin-Clarke – Mr

24 December 1954

Palmer – On December 21st 1954 at the North Devon Infirmary, Barnstaple, to Frances (nee Holman) and John, the gift of a daughter.

Ashford-Vaggers – The engagement is announced between Barbara Mary, eldest daughter of Mr and Mrs G Vaggers, of Briardene, Myrtle Street, Appledore, and John, only son of Mr and Mrs J Ashford, 140 Filton Road, Horfield, Bristol.
Davis-Berry – The engagement is announced between Anne, elder daughter of Mr and Mrs Berry, Alpha Place, Appledore, and Charles Henry, only son of Mr and Mrs Davis, Beehive Cafe, Bideford.
Lloyd-Pavey – The engagement is announced between Mildred, eldest daughter

Bideford Diamond Wedding

Christmas time has an extra special significance for Mr and Mrs F Thorne, 20 North Road, Bideford, who celebrated their diamond wedding last Saturday.
‘Christmas brought us together’ said 80 year old Mrs Thorne, recalling how 63 years ago, as a girl of 17, she was playing games at a Christmas party at Plympton on Boxing Day, and met a 23 year old docker from St-Giles-in-the-Wood, Mr Francis Thorne.
They were married three years later at Devonport, two days after Christmas.
When Mrs Thorne, then Miss Ellen Evans of Plymouth, met her future husband he was a

9 January 1945

Lee – January 5th at the North Devon Infirmary, Barnstaple, to Freda (nee Dalling), wife of CPO W F Lee, DSM, RN, a son, Roderick William.

Ashton-Boswell – engagement announced between Edgar William, son of Mr and Mrs Ashton, Monkleigh, to Beryl Hazel, daughter of Mr and Mrs S Boswell, Bexley Heath, Kent.

Hill-Foster – December 26th 1944 at Woldensian Church, Taranto, Italy, by the Methodist Padre, Rev Simeon Jewkes, Albert Clause (Lieut, RA), son of Mr and Mrs A W Hill, Buckland Brewer, to Eileen (Sister, Military Hospital), daughter of Mr and Mrs Wm Stewart Foster, Belfast.
Johnson-Bull – January

2 January 1945

Campbell – December 20 1944 at Sentry Corner, Bideford, to Creana, wife of Mr R J Campbell, twin daughters, Pamela and Jennifer

Champion – December 21 1944 at the Bristol Maternity Hospital, to Edna (nee Pearse), wife of L/Bdr John Thomas Champion, a son, Philip John

Keen – December 23 1944 at the Nursing Home, Beeston, to Joyce (nee Griffiths), wife of SQMS Dick Keen, a daughter, Janet (a cousin for Roger)

Sherborne – December 22 1944 at the King Street Nursing Home, Watford, to Doreen (nee Watkinson), wife of Victor Sherborne, a daughter, Dawn Jacqueline

Bennett-Gregory – engagement announced between

The funeral of Mr Edmund John Tuplin, of Coral Gables, Beach Road, Westward Ho! has taken place at the North Devon Crematorium.

Mr Tuplin, who was 82, died at his home.
The Rev R A Ford officiated at the service and Mr J Dalby was organist.
Immediate mourners attending were: the widow; Mrs J Evans; Mr and Mrs G V Tuplin; Mr and Mrs David Evans; Mr A Tuplin. Unable to attend were: Mr J Evans; Miss Judith Evans.
Others attending included: Mr and Mrs E Tritton, Mr and Mrs A Watkins, Mr and Mrs A Davies, Mr and Mrs

Funeral of Mr E G Laycock

Members of Lodge of Benevolence No. 489 (Bideford) of Freemasons, of which he was a Past Master and had been secretary for many years, were bearers and formed a guard of honour at the funeral at Bridge Street Methodist Church, Bideford, on Monday, of Mr Ezra George Laycock.

Mr Laycock, who was principal of the Bideford School of Music, Shorthand and Typewriting, at 25 Bridgeland Street, Bideford, died on January 5th, at the age of 78. For twenty years, until his retirement in 1946, he was secretary to Bideford and District Hospital. He was

6 February 1945

Clarke – February 2 1945 at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Violet, wife of Leonard Clarke, a daughter, Barbara Ann

Delbridge – The Rev R and Mrs Delbridge announce the arrival on January 31 1945, at Weach Barton, Bideford, of their daughter, Hilary Joyce
Harris – January 30 1945 at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Molly, wife of William J Harris, a son, Michael
Richards – January 28 1945 at Pitt Court, Appledore, to Betty (nee Dearing), wife of Robert J Richards, a son, Robert David

Bond-Hutchings – January 20 1945 by special licence, Ldg Seaman F J Bond, son of Mr

11 January 1963

Births

Cooper – On January 7th 1963 at the North Devon Infirmary, to Pamela (nee Baynton) and Dr R A Cooper, a daughter, Jane May, sister to Trevor and Paul.
Chandler – On January 3rd 1963 at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Mr and Mrs D G Chandler, New Cottage, Eastleigh, near Bideford, a daughter, Sharon. Grateful thanks to doctor, matron and staff of the Grenville Nursing Home.
Gouldstone – On December 17 1962, at 15 Downsview Road, Sevenoaks, Kent, to Joyce (nee Taylor) and John Gouldstone, a daughter, Annabelle Mary, sister for Penelope and Erica. Both well.
Grills

13 February 1945

Cleverdon – February 9th at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Gracie (nee Daniel), wife of Richard J Cleverdon, Great Gorwood, Buckland Brewer, a daughter.
Mair – February 6th 1945 at Westminster Hospital, London, SW1, to Mary (nee Crofts), wife of Flight-Lieutenant William Austyn Mair, RAFVR, a son, Christopher William.
Sowden – at 2 Ivy Court, Appledore, to Private Sowden, BLA, and Mrs C Sowden (nee Gladys Evans), a son, Christopher.

Douglas Lane-Royle – February 6th 1945 at Southend, Commander C Douglas Lane, RD RNR, son of the late C M R Douglas Lane and Mrs Douglas Lane, Westward Ho!, Devon,

25 February 1966

Bartlett – On February 21st 1966, at the NDI, to Barbara (nee Lee) and Victor, a son, Ian Robert. 

Feltham – On February 15th 1966 at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Joan (nee Massam) and John, a son, Kevin. 

Frayne – On February 16th 1966 to Gina and Robert, a daughter, Juliet Susan, a sister for Marcus. Present address: 10 Hutt Street, Mt Lawley, Perth, W Australia. A granddaughter for Mr and Mrs Claude Frayne, Kingsley Road, Bideford.
Hewetson – On February 16th 1966 to Elizabeth (nee West) and Christopher Hewetson, 18 Anglesey Road, Alverstoke, Hants, a son, James Edward Christopher.

4 March 1966

Stone – On February 22nd 1966 at the Grenville Nursing Home to Margaret (nee Farley) and Norman, a son, Richard Anthony, a brother for Suzanne.

Gardner-Beer – Mr and Mrs R S Beer, 16 Elm Grove, Bideford, have pleasure in announcing the engagement of their only daughter, Jennifer to Malcolm Scott, only son of Mr and Mrs S Gardner, 52 Lynchmere Avenue, Lancing, Sussex.

Brookes-Chope – On Friday February 25th 1966 at the The British Consulate-General in Hanover, Germany, Major Harold Roy Brookes, of Liverpool, to Hazel Margaret, elder daughter of the late Mr Norman Chope and of Mrs Chope,

18 March 1966

Daw – On March 16th 1966 at the NDI, to Queenie (nee May) and Ivor, the gift of a daughter, Amanda Jane.
Gale – On March 16th 1966 to Beverley (nee Fisk) and David, Harzburg, Cornborough Road, Westward Ho! a son, Jason Patrick.
Law – On February 24th 1966 at Parramatta Hospital, New South Wales, Australia, to Eddie and Ray, a daughter, Rebecca Ann, a sister for Christopher, Brenda, Janet and Peter.
Priest – On March 8th 1966 at Venn Mills Farm, Buckland Brewer, to Pauline (nee Stoneman) and Colin, God’s gift of a son, Phillip John. Grateful thanks to the

25 March 1966

Backway-Thornton – The engagement is announced between John, only son of Mr and Mrs J C Backway, 17 Elmdale Road, Bideford, and Jane, only daughter of Mrs V Thornton and the late Mr Thornton, Gorselands, Winterslow, Salisbury.

Stevens-Hayward – the marriage took place on March 5th 1966 at St Leonards Church, Watlington, Oxford, of Lilian Jacqueline, only daughter of Mr and Mrs K Stevens, Westend Cottage, Watlington and the granddaughter of Mrs Staines and the late George, formerly of Appledore, to Roy Hayward, 39 Nuncham Courtenay, Oxford.

Lugg-Palmer – On March 29th 1916 at the Baptist Church, Frithelstock, Gertrude Ella

6 March 1945

Cole – February 22 1945 at the Southmead Nursing Home, Bristol, to Mollie, wife of F G Cole, a daughter, Linda Mary
Gayton – March 5 1945 at Devonia, Bideford East, to Irene, wife of LAC Arthur G Gayton, RAF, a son, brother for David, Brian James
Murch – March 1 1945 at the Beech Hill Nursing Home, to Muriel, wife of Ronald W Murch, of Dorridge, Umberleigh, a sister for Rachel
Pritchard – March 4 1945 at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Brenda, wife of Sgt A F Pritchard, a son, a brother for Michael
Smith – February 22 1945

11 March 1966

Bartlett – On February 28th 1966 at the NDI to Margaret (nee Mountjoy) and Clifford, a son, John, a brother for Kathryn.
Nicholls – On March 8th 1966 at the Queen Charlotte Maternity Hospital, London, to Jean and Roger, God’s gift of a son, Lewis George.

The wedding took place on March 5th, at the Methodist Church, Alverdiscott, of Mr Herbert Ley, son of Mr and Mrs A G Ley, Parkham, and Miss Evelyn Tremeer, daughter of the late Mr and Mrs W Tremeer, Garnacott Farm, Alverdiscott.

The service was conducted by Rev P K Parsons (Methodist Minister) and the organist was Mrs R Moore.
The chief bridesmaid was Miss Margaret Pickard and there were two other bridesmaids, Misses Gillian and Jean Ley. Duties of the best man were carried out by Mr George Ley, and ushers were Mr C Pickard and Mr T Andrew.
The

Mr A J Bailey and Miss M G Davey

A former hon. secretary of the Hartland and District Young Farmers’ Club for three years was married at St Nectan’s Church, Stoke, Hartland, on Saturday.
She was Miss Margaret Grace Davey, daughter of Mr and Mrs J Davey, East Titchberry, Hartland, and the bridegroom was Mr Arthur John Bailey, son of Mr and Mrs H Bailey, 8 Woodville Road, Woodford, Morwenstow.
The bride’s cousin, Mr T Davey, who is organist at St Thomas’ Church, Keyham, Devonport, was at the organ for the wedding service, which was conducted by the Vicar of

When, about 54 years ago, two teenagers met on a carol singing party, little did they think that they were destined to spend the rest of their lives together.

But so it happened, and on Sunday, Mr and Mrs Charles Thomas Copp, Hendra, Ashley Terrace, Bideford, who are both 71, celebrate their golden wedding anniversary.
On March 27th 1910 they were married at Bideford Bridge Street Methodist Church by the Rev J A Aldington.
Before her marriage, Mrs Copp was Miss Dora Annie Rendle, one of the six children of the late Mr and Mrs T Rendle, 11 Geneva Place.

Diamond wedding of Mr and Mrs A Shute

Quietly celebrating sixty years of happy married life on Sunday of last week were Mr and Mrs Alfred Shute, 9 Wimbourne Terrace, Bideford, who were married on March 9th 1887, at Alwington Parish Church.
A small party was held at their home in honour of the anniversary and the family of three sons and one daughter were present. Mr Shute’s sister, Mrs Westaway, who was the bridesmaid at the wedding, also attended and some other guests included the Mayor and Mayoress of Bideford, Mr and Mrs J Lang, the Town Clerk, Mr

Torritonians’ Happy Anniversary

Congratulations and best wishes to Mr and Mrs John Quick, 53 Calf Street, Torrington, who have recently celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary.
Married at the Bible Christian Chapel, South Street, Torrington on February 21st 1885, both are now 82 years of age and are staunch supporters of the Methodist Church, which they attend regularly every Sunday.
A postman for 36 years, with the Imperial Service Medal, Mr Quick remembers the great snowstorm in March 1891, when the snow was level with the hedges, also many occasions when the Taddiport Bridge could not be crossed owing to floods

9 March 1951

Gayton – March 5th 1951, to Irene (nee Pope) and George, a sister for David and Brian.
Jeffery – March 3rd to Mary (nee Hillman), wife of Francis, a son (Ian), a brother for Jeanette
Lee – March 1st at Moorpark, Fairy Cross, to May (nee Poole), wife of Robert George Lee, a son, Norman George.
Sherbourne – February 26th at Rose Cottage, Bideford, to Elsie, wife of Roy Sherborne, a son (Roy Frederick Arthur)
Shutt – March 4th to Margaret (nee Nye), wife of Gerald T Shutt, 52 Barton Tors, a daughter (Margaret Nadine).
Smallridge – March 1st at 14 Torridge Road,

Mr Harold Jordan who has just retired from the Wayfarer Inn, Instow, received a presentation silver tankard from Mr A D Dawkins, local director of Whitbread Flowers Ltd, Devon.

Mrs Jordan received a bouquet.
Mr Jordan, who is 69, has spent the whole of his working life in a Whitbread house. Born in the King’s Arms, South Molton, he moved with his parents to the New Inn, Instow, now the Wayfarer.
Mr and Mrs Jordan married in 1924 and Mrs Jordan has played a very active part in the running of the inn. Their new home is at 9 Estuary

22 March 1963

Mills – Sunday March 17th at the North Devon Infirmary, to Leslie and Muriel (nee Blight) a sister for Stephen.
Paddon – March 13th at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Reg and Mary (nee Oliver), a daughter, Beverley Jane.
Powell - Wednesday March 13th at 2 Nelson Terrace, Westward Ho! to Janet (nee Anscombe) and Ken Powell, a sister for Julia, Caroline.

Bowden-Feild – engagement is announced between John, son of Mr and Mrs Hedley Bowden, 3 Clinton Terrace, Torrington, and Patricia, daughter of Mr and Mrs G Feild, Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire.
Hyett-Jenkins – engagement announced between Mary, daughter of Mr and

Many friends attended the wedding at Bridge Street Methodist Church on Wednesday, March 17th of Mr Graham Braddick, elder son of Mr and Mrs L G H Braddick of Vicosa, Westward Ho! to Miss Dorothy Pickard, only daughter of Mrs and the late Mr T Pickard, 1 Sea View, Northam.

The bridegroom is a former secretary of Bideford and District Motor Club. An excellent shot, he has represented the County is clay pigeon shooting.
Rev Isaac Bond officiated and Mr E G Laycock accompanied the singing. Given in marriage by her uncle, Mr W Ace, the bride wore a white

Affection and esteem

The affection and esteem in which the bride and bridegroom are held was shown by the large congregation at the Baptist Church, Bideford, on Easter Monday for the wedding of Mr Francis William Titcomb, only son of Mr F P Titcomb and the late Mrs Titcomb, of Portledge, Queen’s Road, Newbury, and Miss Margaret Ann Bright, only daughter of Mrs Charles Bright and the late Mr C Bright, of Llandaff House, Clovelly Road, Bideford.
The ceremony was performed by the Rev E F H Knight with Mrs Dorothy Westacott at the organ.
The bride was given away

Mr P G Blackmore and Miss D Eastman

Peals on the bells of St Mary’s Church, Appledore, greeted the wedding of Miss Diane Eastman, elder daughter of Mr and Mrs W Eastman, ‘Out-along’, Torridge Road, Appledore, and Mr Philip G Blackmore, only son of Mr and Mrs E Blackmore, 34 Lime Grove, Bideford.
The Rev R C Dixon officiated and Mrs Parks at the organ accompanied the hymns. There were two attendants. Chief bridesmaid was Miss Denise Eastman and the small bridesmaid was Miss Susan Wren. Best man was Mr B Vincent and ushers were Messrs J Harris and D

Rohan took bus after long walk and reached Barnstaple

It’s a long uphill drag from Bideford Quay to Stucley Road, particularly for a 3 year old in whom the spirit of adventure is fast being killed by the pangs of hunger.
When Rohan Easton’s tummy told him it must be nearly dinner-time he decided he had had enough adventuring for one day. The initiative that had taken him more than a mile from his home, 4 Stucley Road, to the Quay, did not desert him and he was certainly not going to walk back!
He remembered that after he had

8 May 1945

Folland – May 5th 1945 at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Eleanor, wife of L J Folland, Annery Barton, Monkleigh, a son.
Hookway – April 29th 1945 at Kursal, Cleave Houses, Northam, to Mr and Mrs Horace Hookway, a daughter.
Hutchings – May 4th 1945 at 17 Barnstaple Street, to Annie (nee Bushen), wife of Henry Hutchings, a son, Ronald James.
Locker (Lockyer) – April 26th 1945 at the Barnstaple Infirmary, to Sign, G Locker (Lockyer), RN, and Mrs Locker (Lockyer) (nee Phyllis Bedlar), a son, Kenneth John.

Hill-Backway – April 28th 1945 at Mount Pleasant Methodist Church, Exeter, by Rev

1 May 1945

Dennis - April 25, ot Mr and Mrs G S Dennis, Markadon, Hartland, a son, Adrian George
Laws - April 24 1945, at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Margaret (nee Moore), wife of A D Laws, a son, a brother for Margot and David
Spry - April 20 1945, at 12 Iveagh Avenue, London, to Doris (nee Yeo), wife of Walter H Spry, a son, Nigel Adrian, a brother for Michael and Carole

Steer-Hill - engagement is announced between Kenneth John Steer, son of Mr and Mrs E Steer, Guelph, Ontario, formerly of Torrington, and Kathleen Helena Hill, daughter of Mr

11 April 1963

Cole – April 4th to Anne (nee Parks) and Frank, a son, Andrew Neil.
Jones – Tuesday April 9th at Penlea, North View Avenue, Bideford, to Maureen, wife of Rev D Raymond Jones, a son, Andrew William, brother for Christopher.
Lee – April 7th to Sheila (nee Swiffen) and Derrick, a son, Stephen Richard.
Slade – To Ann and Brian, a daughter, Deborah Ann, a sister for Martyn
Westaway – April 3rd at the Grenville Nursing Home to Joyce (nee Ley) and John, a daughter, Susan Mary.

Deakins-Hornabrook – April 6th at St Mary’s, Appledore, Peter Deakins, 26 Merton Crescent , Portchester, to Maureen

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

Sapr A J Beer, RE and ACW E K Canham, WAAF

The wedding was solemnised at St Mary’s Church, Bideford, on Wednesda, of Sapr A J Beer, RE, eldest son of Mr and Mrs A J Beer, Homeside, 6 Chanters Avenue, Bideford, and ACW E K Canham, youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs T E Canham, 108 Bye Pass Road, London. Both bride and bridegroom were in uniform, and the bride carried a bouquet of bronze chrysanthemums and trailing fern.
She was given away by LAC O’Connor, a friend. The bride was attended by ACW Mulry, also in uniform, and

The best man and one of the bridesmaids at their wedding 50 years ago were among the guests at the golden wedding celebrations for Mr and Mrs Richard Bond, of Collacott, Langtree.

Best man was Mr Bond’s brother Jack, of Kilkhampton, and the bridesmaid, Mrs Lily Stevens, of Bampton. The other bridesmaid, Mrs Nancy Yelland, who lives at Clawton, was unable to attend through illness. 

Another guest was the Rev Arthur Balman, minister of Shebbear Methodist circuit. Mr and Mrs Bond have been life-long Methodists.

Mr Bond (73) is one of 12 children of the late Mr and Mrs Samuel

10 May 1963

Bright – May 4th at the North Devon Infirmary, Barnstaple, to Marion and Ken, a son, Kenneth John.
Brown – May 3rd to Joyce (nee Beckley) and Charles, a daughter, Teresa Mary.
Mayne – May 4th to Margaret (nee Hooper) and John, a daughter, Julie, a sister for Susan and Stephen.

Burdick-Wilkie – engagement announced between Major Peter Burdick, the Devonshire and Dorset Regiment, son of Mrs G L Burdick and the late Mr H A Burdick, Shaldon, Devon, and Daphne, daughter of Mr H G Wilkie, CMG, and Mrs Wilkie, Weare Giffard, Bideford.
Kimber-Webster – engagement is announced of Anthony Robin

14 June 1963

Hunt – June 10th 1963 a the General Lying-in Hospital, London, SE1, to Lois (nee Eady) and Dr Roger Hunt, a sister for Rachel
Rice – June 6th in Singapore to Patricia (nee Anderson), wife of Derek, formerly of 3 Myrtle Gardens, Bideford, a daughter, Linda Gail
Tolley – June 8th at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Fiona (nee Greene) and Gerald, a son, Jeremy Mark

Blackmore-Martin – Mr and Mrs Blackmore, 84 Stucley Road, Bideford, have pleasure in announcing the engagement of their son, Albert, to Joan, daughter of Mr and Mrs Martin, 4 Vennclose, Instow
Nicholls-Poole – Mr and Mrs

19 June 1945

Dickson – June 12th to Kathleen (nee Symonds), wife of Major R C Dickson, Royal Signals, a daughter.
Hunkin – June 15th to Mary (nee Lake), wife of W Hunkin, of West Ash, Frithelstock, a son, William Roger.
Lesslie – June 9th at the Dibden Purlieu Nursing Home, to Gwen (nee Sluman), wife of Walter Lesslie, 11 Hollydene, Hythe, Southampton, a daughter, Sandra Mary.
Roberts – June 11th at The Wayside Nursing Home, Maidenhead, to Mr and Mrs L G Roberts (nee Vera Headon), a second daughter, Jennifer Margaret.
Seagrave – June 15th at Braunton Nursing Home, to Gwen (nee Chugg) wife

15 May 1945

Chapman – May 7th 1945 at Ivygreen, Bowgreave, Garstang, to Mr and Mrs S Chapman (nee Dorothy Baron), a daughter, Jennifer, a sister for Graham.
Parsley – May 13th at Mount Pleasant, Parkham, to Ezma Mary Parsley (nee Copp) and Kenneth William Parsley, Royal Navy, a son, Victor Andrew.
Headon – May 11th at 64 The Quay, Clovelly, to Clara, wife of Lieut Stephen H Headon, RNVR, a sister for Clive.
Shutt – May 10th at 8 The Quay, Bideford, to Mr and Mrs L J Shutt, a daughter, Cynthia.
Smale – May 5th at 5 Bedford Cotts, Plymstock, to Mr and

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

Of particular interest to football enthusiasts in North Devon was the wedding which took place at St Michael’s Church, Torrington, on Tuesday between Mr Cecil Green, youngest son of Mr F Green, 55 Meddon Street, Bideford, and the late Mrs E Green, and Miss Norah Rose Verona Vickery, only daughter of Mr and Mrs F F Vickery, the Royal Exchange, Torrington.

The bridegroom has been prominent in football circles in North Devon and comes from a very sporting family, being the youngest of four brothers, all of whom have played ‘soccer’ for Bideford and Torrington.
The marriage service was conducted

3 July 1945

Easby – June 28 1945 at the Sussex Maternity Hospital, Brighton, to Margaret (nee Jeffery), wife of Lt M T W Easby, RNVR, a son
Heddon – July 1 1945 at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Mary (nee Grigg), wife of Walter Heddon, a son
Pollard – June 26 1945 at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Dorothy, wife of Harold Pollard, a brother for Terry

Braund-Twaddle – engagement announced between James Harold Braund, 20 Meeting Street, Appledore, and Noreen Twaddle, Ashley Park, St Andrew’s, Bristol

Hare-Nicholls – June 15 1945 at St Brannock’s Church, Braunton, by the Vicar, Rev J

27 June 1958

Chamings – at the Grenville Nursing Home to Phyllis (nee Woodman) and Cyril, a daughter, Carolyn Joyce.
Lee – On June 22nd 1958 at the Grenville Nursing Home to May (nee Poole) and George, a son, Brian Robert, brother for Norman and Christine.
March – On 20th June 1958 at the North Devon Infirmary, to Ruby G (nee Barber) and Clifford D, a gift of a son Kelvin.
Steele – On Tuesday June 24th 1958 at the North Devon Infirmary to Daphne and Reg, the gift of a daughter, Rosemary June.
Weaver – On June 20th 1958 at the Grenville Nursing Home

 17 June 1966

Allison – On June 10th 1966 at the Grenville Nursing Home to Marion (nee Trewin) and Robert, a son, John Robert.
Bearman – On June 3rd 1966 at Portwey Hospital, Weymouth, to June (nee Glover) and Allen, a daughter, Sarah, a precious sister for Paula.
Chapman – On June 12th 1966 at the Cottage Hospital, Torrington, to Jean (nee Daniel) and Keith, a daughter, Joanne Elizabeth.
Smyth – On June 12th at the Louise Margaret Maternity Hospital, Aldershot, to Margot (nee Laws), wife of Capt Neil E Smyth, a son, Christopher, brother for Stephen and Nicholas.

Sweeting – On June 7th 1966

Married 20th March 1945

Marine John Oswald Seed, RM, son of Mr and Mrs J R Seed, 50 Abbotsham Road, Bideford, and his bride, Miss Joan Audrey Jackson, WRNS, second daughter of Lieut. Com R G Jackson, RNVR, and Mrs Jackson of Two Rivers, Torridge Road, Appledore, and of Westcliff-on-Sea. They were married at St Mary’s Church, Bideford, on March 20th.

Gazette article dated 3 April 1945

Bride presented with silver horseshoes

The wedding has taken place at the Methodist Church, Torrington, of Miss Ruby Frances Weeks, elder daughter of Mr and Mrs C Weeks, Five Lanes End, Little Torrington, and Mr Kenneth George Rowe, Royal Marines, only son of Mr and Mrs Rowe, 5 Coronation Road, Bideford.

The Rev G R Mallinson officiated. Mr Webber was at the organ. The only sister of the bride, Miss Clarice Weeks, was bridesmaid. The duties of the best man were carried out by Mr R Beer. 

The bride was presented with three silver horseshoes – one by her small brother,

Bideford and Northam Families United

Six bridesmaids attended the bride at the wedding at St Mary’s Church, Bideford, on Boxing Day, of LAC Edward Claude Lott, RAF, only son of Mr and Mrs E W Lott, 6 North Street, Northam, and Miss Hetty May Pym, elder daughter of Mr and Mrs J W L Pym, 30 Torrington Street, Bideford.
The service was conducted by the Rev R A B Chambers. Mr R Harper was at the organ.
Gazette article dated 5 January 1943

The wedding took place at St Mary’s Church, Bideford, on February 19th, of Corpl Robert T Terhune, US Army, only son of Mr and Mrs Walter Terhune, of Milford, Mass. USA, and Miss Joan Williams, only daughter of Mrs F Williams and the late Mr Harry Williams, 2 Sunnyside, Bideford.

The Rector, Rev Preb W N Manning, officiated at the service. Mr R Harper presided at the organ.
The bride was given away by her uncle, Sgt/Major Bert Beer. The duties of matron of honour were carried out by Mrs G Sims, Able Seaman Frank Luckett, Royal Navy, was best

S/Sgt H J Bates (US Army) and Miss R Hearn

Much local interest was taken in the wedding on February 17th at St Mary’s Church, Bideford, of S/Sgt Harold John Bates, US Army, only child of Mr E E Bates and the late Mrs Bates, of Quentin Road, Brooklyn, 29, New York, and Miss Rona Hearn (NFS), only child of Mr and Mr E B Hearn, Beachside, Torridge Place, Bideford.
Preb W N Manning, Rector of Bideford, officiated and the organist was Mr R Harper.
Three bridesmaids attended the bride – Misses Jean Jewell, Doreen Westcott and Judith Butler. The duties

Bideford Wedding

Three sisters of the bride were bridesmaids at the wedding at Bideford Baptist Church, on May 22nd, of Craftsman Ronald Arthur Payne, REME, elder son of Mr and Mrs A E Payne, 2 Wensley Green, Leeds, and Miss Evelyn May Langdon, eldest daughter of Mr and Mrs S Langdon, Rose Lea, 2 Wimbourne Terrace, Bideford.
The Rev F Hobbs officiated at the ceremony. Mr W S Darch was at the organ. The bride’s three sisters – Misses Kathleen, Vera and Joan Langdon – were bridesmaids. Gunner Fields, friend of bride and bridegroom, carried out the duties of best man. Mr

Military Bridegrooms

Pretty Scene at Westward Ho!
There was a pretty scene at the Westward Ho! Baptist Church on December 26th when the wedding took place between L/Cpl Frank Gray, younger son of Mr and Mrs B Gray, Holt Cottage, Appledore, and Miss Alice Mary Wilkey, twin daughter of Mr and Mrs F J Wilkey, Venton Farm, Westward Ho!
The Rev F Hobbs officiated and Miss S Barrett was at the organ. The bride was attended by her twin sister, Mrs J K Moore. Driver W R Langdon, brother-in-law of the bridegroom, carried out the duties of best man. The

Lavington Church Workers

Bdr G M Durant and Miss J K Farr
Bride’s Father Officates
A guard of honour of four fellow Royal Artillery NCO’s, all former scholars of Lavington Sunday School, greeted Bombardier George M Durant, RA, only son of Mr and Mrs M J Durant, Darracott, Bideford, and Miss Joan Kate Farr, elder daughter of the Rev and Mrs W J Farr, Lavington House, Bideford, after their marriage at Lavington Congregational Church, Bideford, on Saturday.
There was a large attendance of friends at the church, which had been specially decorated with tulips and lilac by Miss P Durant,

Pte T E Shortridge and Miss F T Daniel

The wedding took place on Saturday, May 15th, at St Mary’s Church, Bideford, the Rev R Stone officiating, of Private Thomas Edwin Shortridge, younger son of Mr and the late Mrs J Shortridge, 35 Clifton Street, Bideford, and Miss Florence Tryphena Daniel, elder daughter of Mr and Mrs S Daniel, 1 Newport Terrace, Bideford.
Mr R Harper presided at the organ.
The bride, who was given away by her father, wore a dress of white ring velvet with trailing veil and headdress of orange blossom. Her only ornament was a locket

8 March 1963

Dark – March 2 1963 to George and Phyllis (nee Adams), a daughter, Teresa Doris Edith, a sister for Derek and Trevor.
Dymond – February 27 at Park Nursing Home, Claremont Terrace, Glasgow, to Esme (nee Passmore) and Derek, a sister for Andrew.
Garner – March 5 at Bromley, Kent, to Hazel (nee Prance) and Ken, a son, a brother for Barry.
Taylor – March 5 at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Fay (nee Pearce) and Michael, a daughter, Karen Fay, a sister for Denise.
Tucker – March 6 at the Grenville Nursing Home, to Marie (nee Woolf) and Alex, Tanporte, Westward

31 July 1945

Hobbs – July 13 at Aultmohr, Rhu, Edinburgh, to Adeline, wife of W/O Hobbs, J H, RAF, a daughter, Pamela Margaret
Johns – July 23 at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Barbara (nee Featherstone), wife of Sgt G B Johns, a son, David Alan
Underhill – July 25 at the Cottage Hospital, Torrington, to Marjorie (nee Huxtable), wife of Ernest George Underhill, Barfield, Frithelstock, a son, William John
White – July 29 at 25 Barnstable Street, Bideford, to Winifred (nee Sherborne), wife of Leonard White, Northam, a daughter, Gillian Margaret

Gifford-Bowden – engagement is announced between Christine (ATS), daughter of Mr

Several well known local people were present at the Governor of Cyprus’ Investiture held on the island last month.

When Flight-Lieut Sykes, of Stratton, received the MBE, Flight-Lieut J H Lamey, MBE, of Appledore, was one of his supporters. The OC of the unit (103 MU) was Wing Commander Pentren-Voak, OBE, of Braunton. Later the party met Miss Ann Backway, of Bideford, and the above photograph was taken by Wing-Commander Pentren-Voak.

Seen in the photograph are: Mrs J H Lamey, Mrs Pentren-Voak, Flight-Lieut J H Lamey, Sergt Ann Backway, Flight-Lieut Peel and Mrs E Sykes.
Flight-Lieut J H Lamey,

Torrington Golden Wedding

The Mayor and Mayoress of Torrington, Mr and Mrs W H Jenkins, bring the congratulations of townspeople to Mr and Mrs Percy Copp.
Life is never lonely for Mr and Mrs Percy Copp, 76 Calf Street, Torrington, for their three sons, three daughters and 14 grandchildren and one great-grandchild all live near them.
Mr and Mrs Copp’s sons are: Harold, who lives at Taddiport; George of South Street, who is a member of Torrington Town Council; and Reg, of New Street. Their daughters are Mrs Marjorie Popham, Mrs Olivia Newcombe and Mrs Winnie Oke, all of Calf

6 July 1937

Lesslie – On June 30th at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Mr and Mrs J Lesslie (nee Doris Bright), a daughter.

Beesley-Powell – On June 26th 1937, at Exeter, Dr C Beesley to Mrs M M Powell, late of Weare Giffard.
Cann-Osborne – At St Mary’s Church, Bideford, June 30th, Sydney, second son of the late Mr W Cann and of Mrs Hocking, of Appledore, to Effie Millie, second daughter of Mr and Mrs A Osburn, 5 Chudleigh Terrace, Bideford East.
Taylor-Bate – On July 5th 1937 at the Baptist Church, Bideford, Ronald B Taylor, only son of Mr and

5 July 1963

Potter – June 28th 1963 at Swindon to Jane and Edward, a daughter, Helen Elizabeth, and granddaughter for Mr and Mrs F H Griffiths, Crossways, Buckland Brewer.
Turner – July 2nd at 30 Platts Lane, Hampstead, NW3, to Gillian (nee Chope) and Geoffrey, a son, John, brother for Sarah and Mark.

Snell-Sluman – Mr and Mrs Sluman of Torrington Lane, have pleasure in announcing the engagement of their daughter, June, to Terence, son of Mr and Mrs Snell, New Street, Torrington.

Bain-Acford – June 29th at St Helen’s, Abbotsham, Richard, son of Mr and Mrs Bain, of Pine Lodge, Northdown Road,

Next week’s anniversary at Torrington

Sixty years ago next Thursday, July 24th, two well known Torrington people entered a local registry office and left man and wife. They were Mr and Mrs Herbert Baker, Fair View, Gas Lane.
Mr and Mrs Baker have one son, 57 years old Mr Reg Baker, Mill Street, Torrington, who is a driver for Torridge Vale Dairies (Devon) Ltd. They had one granddaughter, Mrs Stacey, of Calf Street, Torrington, and four great-grandchildren.
Mr Baker, who is 80 years old, has a long record of service to the town. For thirty years he was a member

Presentations were the order of the day

at Torrington Post Office when the departing postmaster, Mr H Ash, received a picnic basket from the Torrington staff and friends at Bideford PO, Postman A May received a mirror and fireproof dish as wedding gifts from his colleagues, and Mr W S Hutchings was presented with a 10-years safe driving medal.
Mr W Sillifant, Mr C Pittwood, Miss A Beer, Mrs E Hoyle, Mr V Baker, Miss H Walsha, Miss M Bissett, Mr P Ford (acting postmaster), and Mr W Page.
Mr R Jones, Mr H Ash, Mr R D Cooper (Head

13 March 1945

Bowden – February 27th 1945 at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, to Amy (nee Daniel), wife of Vernon Bowden, a daughter, Joy Elaine.
Eastmond – February 28th at the Torrington Cottage Hospital, to Lucy (nee Beer), wife of Robert Leonard Eastmond, a son, Robert Michael.
Guard – March 9th at the North Devon Infirmary, to Doris (nee Avery), wife of Gunner H Guard, RLA, a daughter, Patricia Joan Ellaine.
Parsons – March 8th at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to Phyllis (nee Bond), wife of Pte W Parsons, a daughter.
Smith – March 6th at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to

The wedding took place at the beautifully decorated St Mary’s Church, Appledore, on March 28th, of Mr William Berry, son of Mr and Mrs J Berry, 12 Tower Street, Northam, to Miss Daphne Logg, daughter of Mr and Mrs E Logg, 8 Myrtle Street, Appledore.

The Vicar of Appledore, Rev H C A S Muller, officiated at the ceremony. Mrs Helen Muller presided at the organ. “The Lord is my Shepherd” was sung as a solo by Master Tony Redclift.
There were two bridesmaids – Miss M Hosegood and Miss B Logg. Duties of the best man were carried out by

Sergt/Observer Alfred Leonard Bragg, RAF, elder son of Mr and Mrs A Bragg of Sherborne, and Miss Barbara May Arlett, elder daughter of Mr and Mrs W H Arlett, Pilgrim's Way, Westward Ho! are photographed after their wedding on March 25th at Holy Trinity Church, Westward Ho!

A.B/St J Osborne and Miss P Trott

At St Mary’s Church, Bideford, on Saturday July 22nd, the wedding took place of A.B/S.T John Osborne, twin son of Mr and Mrs W Osborne, 28 Torrington Lane, Bideford E. and Miss Phyllis Trott, daughter of Mrs M Trott, 13 Bridgeland Street, Bideford, and the late Mr F Trott.
Rev T R Gibby officiated at the ceremony and Mr R Harper was the organ.
Given away by her uncle, Mr G Blackmore, the bride wore a dress of white cloque, with veil and headdress of orange blossom.
The bride’s sister, Miss Alice Trott

10 December 1954

Boyles – December 2nd at 28 Market Street, Appledore, to Anne (nee Lynch) and Arthur, a daughter, Diane Mary, a sister for Peter.
Dennis – December 3rd at the Grenville Nursing Home, Bideford, to May (nee Fishwick) and Jack, a son, Leslie Malcolm.
Fletcher – December 8th 1954 at Denaryn, Northam, a sister for Carolyn and Andrea.
Morrish – December 7th to Joyce (nee Stranks) and John, a sister for Paul, Lynn.
Sluman – December 8th to Norah (nee Husband) and Wilfred, a son.
Squires – December 9th to Margaret (nee Ferrett) and Arthur, a son.