100 Years Ago

News from October 1959

October 1959

A group of 27 young Germans has arrived to spend a fortnight in North Devon on an exchange visit. Some of them are guests in homes in Bideford district. They were welcomed on their arrival by Miss E Gartside and Mr Barnes, the teachers of the English Group, and met their English hosts. While they are here they will be taken on several coach trips, ranging from holiday resorts to trips to Exeter and Plymouth. They took tea at Southcott House with the Mayor and Mayoress of Bideford, Mr Ambrose Fulford, and his daughter, Miss Gladys Fulford. In the evening they were entertained by Bideford St John Ambulance Nursing Cadets, at their Headquarters at Market Place. The photograph was taken during a game at a party.

Abbotsham farmer, Mr William Jackman, of Lake, is mourned.

Fifty-nine years ago Mr Charles Hooper and his wife took charge of Abbotsham Church of England School at a salary of £80 a year, and that began a happy association with the village that has lasted. He continued to lave in Abbotsham until six years ago but he has still retained the old home in Coronation Terrace, which rev R W Sealy had built for him. Always there was something to occupy his time and school was no nine to four job; in those days the headmaster was also a teacher. In the evenings there were such things as shooting (Abbotsham had a successful miniature rifle club of which he was secretary for 30 years), bell ringing, choir practice and police duties. He and the Rev Sealy started a lodge of the National Deposit Friendly Society and of this Mr Hooper was secretary for more than 30 years. Keen on outdoor sports, he played cricket for Northam and Westward Ho! He began his career as a student teacher where he was born – St Giles-in-the-Wood, and among his pupils was Mrs Charlotte Babb, mother of Mr Cyril Babb, well known local farmer and butcher. At 91 Mr Hooper remains a remarkable man.

Mrs Sybil Tucker, who has lived at the New Inn, Abbotsham, for the past 50 years, has retired and is making her home in the adjoining cottage. At Bideford Petty Sessions the licence was transferred to her son, Mr Donald Henry Tucker. Mrs Tucker succeeded her husband as the licensee on his death some 13 years ago. Previously her parents were licensees there. Announcing that the transfer would be granted, Mr R B Blackmore, presiding, said that the justices had associated Mrs Tucker with the New Inn for a long period and she had had an honourable tenancy there. The time came when all had to give way to others, even though it was not always pleasant. “We are pleased that you are going out in such an honourable way,” he added.

Weed winners at Abbotsham were Miss F Moggridge, Mrs Bowyer and Mrs Winter.

Alverdiscott anxiety as Ministry of Health reassures on polio.

Babbacombe in the Parish of Alwington is to be let.

Ubiquitus writes: Prominently featured in a recent issue of the Sunday Pictorial was a photograph of a recent ‘Clan Coffin’ reunion on Nantucket Island, USA, said to be the first of such reunions since 1881. Over 400 turned up – including one Coffin who owns a cemetery! – and they honoured the energy and enterprise of the family which sprang from Tristram Coffin who went to America in 1642. Tristram is still a family name. The ‘Clan Coffin’ has a link with North Devon as the ancestral home of the Coffin family is Portledge House, Alwington, which a few years ago was let and converted into a hotel. Records show that the family of Coffin – over the centuries it became linked with the Pine family and is now Pine-Coffin – has been associated with Portledge and Alwington since the time of William the Conqueror.

Discovered in an attic of the Bell Inn, Appledore, sometime ago when a clearance was being made on a changeover, some plans, believed to be unique, for the building of Penzance luggers, a type of vessel no longer in use, have been exciting the interest of experts on coastal shipping. Placed out with waste paper, the plans were spotted by Mr Jim Harris and they have now been inspected by Mr Basil Greenhill, an authority on sailing ships; Cmdr Oliver Hill, who has been in charge of the reference section of the National Maritime Museum at Greenwich; and Capt W J Slade, of Bideford, whose book on local vessels was published earlier this year. The plans have been taken away for further examination, and it is thought likely they will eventually be housed in the Museum at Greenwich. They are thought to the work of the late Mr Harry Lesslie, father of Mrs Sarah Powe, who followed him as licensee of the Bell, which she gave up some time ago.

The funeral has taken place at Appledore Parish Church, of Mrs Emily Maud Powe, of 2 Sea View, Appledore, who died, aged 78, at the home of her daughter, Mrs V G Stevens, 8 Pitt Avenue, Appledore. Mrs Powe was the widow of Mr Thomas Henry Powe, who died only a few weeks ago. The service was conducted by the Rev L C Mallett, and Mrs Parkes was the organist. Immediate mourners attending were: Mrs V G Stevens, Mrs Selina Jewell, daughters; Tony, Michael, Sidney and Dorothy, grandchildren; Mr T Jewell, Mr R Stevens, sons-in-law; Mr E Powe, Mrs E Jewell, Mrs E G Berry, Mrs B Heard, Mrs O Powe, cousins.

Mr Sidney Cann, of 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, 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, local hon. secretary of the RNLI ‘Cox’n spliced: launched on service.’ Mr Cann, is understood to be the longest serving officer in the Institution. He has served with the Appledore lifeboat for more than 30 years and holds the Institution’s bronze medal and bar. He has helped to save some 250 lives and also holds a silver medal for long service. His bride owns a baker’s shop in Westward Ho! The Rev G H Watkeys officiated at the service and Miss Beer was the organist. Given away by her son, Mr Peter White, the bride wore a black dress with a turquoise bodice overlaid with black lace, a black coat and turquoise accessories. Mr Richard Cann, nephew of the bridegroom, was best man. Following a recpetion at Beachlea Café, Mr and Mrs Cann left for a honeymoon in Eastbourne.

Did you buy ‘Glamour Girl stockings’ from Chopes Bargain Shop, High Street, Bideford?

Anerley, 12 Honestone Street, and 2 Hillside Terrace, Bideford, are for sale.

There is a demolition sale of North Bank House, North Road, Bideford.

Houses condemned because of ‘minor points’.

These three new temporary classrooms, constructed of Red Cedar, will shortly be in use at Bideford County Secondary School. They will help to relieve present and anticipated pressure on existing accommodation. The headmaster, Mr J E Down, describes the new additions as delightful classrooms. Light and airy, each is fitted with a modern slow combustion heating.

Pynes Lane may be closed to vehicles.

When Mr Ron Littlejohns of 57 Elm Grove, Bideford, returned home, his wife told him there was a bomb at the bottom of their garden. Their son, Michael, and his friend, Richard Smith, of Mill Street, had come across the bomb while playing in the vicinity and had innocently hauled it up on top of the garden shed.

Ubiquitus writes - The Giddy family, of Bideford, are climbing the tree, and I’m wondering what the late ‘Grandfather’ Giddy, Mr William Giddy, who sailed as sail-maker in the Clipper Days, would say if he could see the fine new headquarters, the ‘Rectory Showrooms and Works’ which his three great-grandsons may take a share in as they grow older. Mr Ivor Giddy, aged 34, reminded me of how his grandfather, the ‘palm and needle man’ of sailing days, and father of 13, on ‘swallowing the anchor’ combined his sail-making craft with domestic work on floor coverings, etc. His son, Horace, followed on, inheriting the traditional skill, forming Bideford Carpet Service, and now his only son, Ivor, is opening up next weekend a new vision for the family craft, ranging from carpet-laying of the biggest seaside hotels to the floor covering and reupholstery of domestic dwellings of any size. Their bold enterprise has certainly brightened up the appearance of the High Street-Pitt Lane corner and is a credit to the town.

‘More than a party’ plea succeeds as six licensees, within the vicinity of the Pannier Market, are granted an extension.

Kenneth Edward Drew, of 4 Model Terrace, Bideford, was fined £2.

Young sparks! Yes, and bright ‘young sparks’ too, for they are members of Bideford County Secondary School radio club which is recommencing its activities after half-term, following summer recess. The Club is under the supervision of Mr D T Bailey, metal work teacher at the School, seen watching them in the photographs as they share construction and repair work on sets. Christopher Bonner has progressed to the stage of making a push-pull amplifier, and Jimmy Colwill has built his first transistor set.

The impressive new assembly hall at Stella Maris Convent School, Bideford, was dedicated by the Roman Catholic Bishop of Plymuth. Parents will assemble for the annual prize day which coincides with the formal opening of the new hall, which is the largest of its kind in Bideford.

Lavington Congregational Church, the oldest of Bideford’s free churches, welcomed Bideford’s first woman minister, with the ordination and induction of the Rev Gladys Smith, who comes from the Pear Tree Green Congregational Church, Southampton. Speaking on behalf of Lavington Church, Mr Harold Blackmore, said they would long remember the ministry of the Rev A J Herring, Mrs Smith’s predecessor, but she had already won a place in the hearts of her congregation.

Ubiquitus writes - Although it was their wish that the anniversary should be a quiet affair, their friends would regard it amiss if I did not mention that many extend congratulations and good wishes to Mr and Mrs Stanley Bate, of Moreton Cottage, Clovelly Road, Bideford, who celebrated their golden wedding anniversary. Since retiring to Moreton Cottage after 25 years as a ship’s carpenter and serving on a cruiser in the First World War, Mr Bate, a native of Clovelly, has written occasionally for nautical magazines, has been recorded by the BBC, and has produced an interesting booklet recalling some of the history and his memories of his home village.

Highlight of the annual Scout bazaar was the hobbies department where the Cubs, Scouts, Guides and Brownies had their skills in the making of some very interesting and amusing models on display. One catching the eye was a small ship made solely out of matchsticks by Alan Watkins of Clovelly Road. ‘Bideford Swimming Pool’ was the wishful title of a model by Geoffrey Rodgers. First prize went to Anthony Davies.

Many friends attended the funeral at Higher Cemetery of Mrs Elizabeth Ann Penhale, who died at the home of her daughter, Mrs Leonard Copp, of Strawberry Cottage, at the age of 90 years. Mrs Penhale was the widow of Mr John Penhale, late of Buckland Brewer, and of 47 Meddon Street. The Rev G E Gregory officiated, assisted by the Rev R H Foster, with Miss G Glover as the organist. Immediate mourners were: Mr and Mrs L Copp; Mr and Mrs G Penhale and Mr and Mrs B Bulley; Mr and Mrs D Copp; Mr and Mrs S Cann and Shirley; Mr and Mrs G Davies and Mr C Cory. Unavoidably absent were: Mr W Penhale, and Mr H Prance. Both are in New Zealand.

Buckland Brewer WI, presided over by Mrs Stokes, enjoyed a very pleasant evening with Miss Ruby, of Launceston.

Clovelly’s British Legion is to carry on.

Clovelly Ladies’ Lifeboat Guild show receipts of just on £240 for the past year. Main items include: Whist drive, £24; Flag day, £64; Lifeboat boxes – Mrs L Symons, £1; Mrs H A Burrow, £3 10s; sale of Lifeboat books, Miss H Jewell, £58; Mrs M Morris, £84; subscriptions, £4 10s.

Mrs Toynbee is fined £5.

Memories of a wedding journey to Bideford by pony and jingle were being recalled at a family gathering at Knotty Corner, Fairy Cross, in celebration of the diamond wedding anniversary of Mr and Mrs Arthur Beckley. Both are just over 80 and very active.

A representative congregation attended the funeral at St Nectan’s Parish Church, Hartland, of Mr Ernest William Pyne, who died suddenly at his home at Blagdon at the age of 74. Family mourners were: Mr and Mrs E Barnes, Mr and Mrs R Buckler, Mr and Mrs J Pyne, Betty and Peter Barnes, Rex and Rita Drayton, Mr F Pyne, Mrs F Pyne, Mr P Pyne, Miss L Vinnacombe, Mrs E Vinnacombe, Mr W Heal, Mr and Mrs F Butler and Marion, Mr L Middle, and Mrs Harris. Bearers were Messrs M Heard, W Slee, E Davey, I Brimacombe, A Smith and Curry. There were fifty floral tributes.

Hartland Parish Council agrees to contribute towards repairing bridle paths.

Oct 1959 Hartland bridle paths

The car dumped by an ex-RAF man on Northgate car park, Hartland, which has provided Bideford Rural Council with a headache for a long period, has, members were told, been disposed of to a local person who is to remove it.

In Hartland there are houses, the tenants of which have to cross the main road and walk about 50 yards, latterly through a patch of ground overgrown with weeds and nettles, in order to reach their lavatories – chemical closets housed in semi-derelict stone hovels. Some of them prefer to use the town’s public lavatories nearby. The houses in question belong to the Town Trust but a Bideford Gazette representative was told that there are plenty not belonging to the Trust where similar conditions obtain. As usual, finance is at the bottom of the trouble, even though it is not the whole story. The properties in the main are let at absurdly low rents – there has been no increase at least since before the first World War. Only two of the dozen cottages owned by the Trust produce what could be termed real revenue and that is merely because they have recently been re-let. Some of the other houses are so small and so constructed that improvements are wholly impracticable. A number of them have no back doors, let alone yards where toilets could be built. That does not apply to all. “We offered to build lavatories here once but the sanitary authorities would not allow it because there was insufficient water for the flushing purposes” said the Trust member. Some of the houses have lavatories on the sewer but they have to be flushed with buckets of water.

Winning the North Devon Constituency for the Liberals will cost Mr Jeremy Thorpe two bottles of champagne when he visits Hartland Quay Hotel; and he will enjoy meeting his obligation with a flourish. At the beginning of the by-election campaign in the Torrington division, just over 18 months ago, Mr Thorpe, while on a visit to the hotel, was ribbed about Liberal prospects. This led him to promise to stand a bottle of champagne in the bar if and when Mr Mark Bonham-Carter, the Torrington Liberal candidate, was returned. Mr Bonham-Carter went on to win the by-election and, remembering his promise, Mr Jeremy Thorpe sometime ago revisited Hartland Quay Hotel and bought a bottle of champagne which was shared out among those present who were Torrington electors. Toasts were ‘No re-count next time’ and ‘May the best man win.’ To these everyone, whatever their political opinions, could drink with equal sincerity. Mr Jack Walter, with whom Mr Thorpe made the original bet: ‘When I get in I’ll stand you two bottles.’ So, as they say, Jack and his fellow electors in the neighbourhood of Hartland Quay will be all right. But Mr Thorpe will be toasting with mixed feelings for whereas he is in Parliament, Mr Mark Bonham-Carter is now out.

Local golfers, Col and Mrs W Wright, of Myrtle Cottage, Instow, and the Royal North Devon Golf Club, put up a first-class performance to reach the final of the nation-wide Daily Mail amateur mixed foursomes tournament, closing stages of which were played on the gruelling championship course at Royal Lytham and St Anne’s.

The savoury results of Mrs Killick’s demonstration on ‘High teas’ were sampled by several appreciative members at the monthly meeting of Langtree WI. She was thanked by Mrs K Hill on behalf of the Institute. Afterwards Mrs Killick judged the competition – Victoria sponge from a given recipe – and awarded place of honour to Mrs C Huxtable and second to Mrs J Dymond. A happy social half-hour was preceded by the tea break. Tea hostesses were Mrs D Mills and Mrs Wheeler.

Lt-Col W B Churchill-Longman, of Heale House, Littleham, displays a ‘deadly’ plant he has identified in his conservatory. The Ministry of Agriculture have been warning farmers, country families and weekenders against this rare sub-tropical plant which has made its appearance in this country. It is the Datura stramonium, or American thorn-apple, which is described as very deadly to small children or to cattle. Dangerous drugs, sometimes used as narcotics, are extracted from the plant in countries where it grows naturally. In February, Mr M P Moore, found a similar specimen in his garden at Eastover, Mount Pleasant, Bideford.

Lundy ponies are transported by Mr George Symons to be sold.

A strong recommendation that something should be done about signposts at the corner of Bone Hill, Northam, so that future accidents should be avoided, was made by the chairman of Bideford magistrates, Mr T C Buckland.

How much do we really know about the facts underlying the legendary defeat of Hubba the Dane by King Alfred the Great’s men at Kenwith and at Bloody Corner? Mr R J Lloyd, the artist, who resides with his young family on the Strand, Bideford, is on the march, and has permission in due course to begin excavations of the legendary site to find physical evidence. Meanwhile our readers are invited to check up on any old remains they have, which could possibly date back 1,000 years, such as iron axe-heads, metal shield bosses, metal trappings, or buckles, and human bones. Evidence in national and local museums is of the scantiest, so readers, have a look round your curios and contact Mr Lloyd. Truth must out! Later that month, Mr Frank Withecombe show Ubiquitus two ancient iron spikes from a field adjacent to Bloody Corner.

The funeral has taken place at the Parish Church, Parkham, of Mrs Mabel Peard, of Hordlands, Parkham. She was 72. The Rev J E Lynn conducted the service, and the organist, Mr M Chubb, accompanied the singing of the hymns. Immediate mourners were: the husband, Mr Fred Peard; Dorothy and Caroline, daughters; Paula, granddaughter; Mr W Kelly, son-in-law; Knighton and Betty, brother and sister-in-law; Mr W Moore, Mr T Moore, Mr C Moore, Mrs L Hockin, Mrs Tucker, Mrs E Wren, nephews and nieces.

Tenders of £452 from Messrs Blanchards for improvements to two houses at Halsbury, Parkham, was accepted by Bideford Rural Council. Total cost of improvements to the houses, including the laying of a water main by the North Devon Water Board, would be £596 11s 9d, the Council told, and they agreed to make application, subject to the necessary assurances, for loan consent to the extent of £597, repayable over a period of 20 years by half-yearly instalments.

Every Wednesday 80 year old Mr George Pett, of Moorfield, Shebbear, sets off on a three-mile cycle ride for a whist drive. His wife, aged 77, is just as energetic, for she enjoys attending village dances. Last week Mr and Mrs Pett celebrated their golden wedding anniversary at their home. There was a family party at which their three children – Mrs Molly Sanders, of Pitt, Shebbear; Mr Richard Pett, of Berry Farm, Shebbear; and Miss Marion Pett, who lives with her parents – were present. Also at the party were the couple’s four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, the youngest being 2 weeks old John Chamberlain, son of Mrs Sanders’ youngest daughter. Mr Pett was born in Shebbear and went to school there. His father farmed Barn, and when Mr Pett left school he helped on the farm. His wedding to Miss Edith Baulkwill, of Landcross, a farmer’s daughter, took place at Monkleigh Church on September 22nd 1909. During the 1914-18 war Mr Pett served with the Devon Yeomanry in France and on his return farmed Barn. He bought Berry Farm and continued to work the combined farms until his retirement when he went to live at Moorfield, a smallholding. Mr Pett, who often helps his son with work on the farm, has several hobbies. In particular he likes cards, cricket and horses. Mrs Pett still does her own housework and helps her daughter with managing the house.

Mrs Nankivelly, wife of Mr John Nankivell, President of Shebbear Young Farmers’ Club, cut a cake decorated with 21 candles at a dinner held in Buckland Filleigh Parish Hall to mark the ‘coming of age’ of the club. Mr Nankivell proposed the loyal toast at the dinner which was attended by about 150 members and friends. Mr Charles Bellew proposed the toast ‘Shebbear YFC’ which was responded to by Mr Jack Quance. ‘The National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs’ was proposed by Mr Alan Bewes and was acknowledged by Mr John Yelland. Among those present at the dinner was Mr W Wilson, County Organiser. Afterwards a ball was held at Shebbear Village Hall.

Forty-three child cyclists rode their machines along to the Torridge Dairies to take part in road proficiency tests, organised by Torrington Road Safety Committee. Forty-one of the boys and girls achieved the required proficiency and at a later date will be awarded emblems to mark this. The tests were supervised by PS Kenneth Alway, with the assistance of PC Cobham and motor patrol officers, one of whom talked to the children about the work of the patrol cars.

Pointing out that the maternity section of Torrington Cottage Hospital had been closed for some considerable time and Lynton Cottage Hospital would be closed to in-patients for some time, both because of staffing difficulties, Mr W H Tall, at Monday’s meeting of the North Devon Hospital Management Committee, asked for an assurance that every possible effort was being made to get the staff required. The secretary, Mr J C Woolley, said the committee had advertised extensively for staff; it was doing all it could. Two staff nurses had applied for posts at Lynton, and there was a tentative inquire at Torrington.

Some of the audience at the BBC ‘Any Questions?’ broadcast from Torrington County Secondary School. The spontaneous discussion was by Messrs Robert Carr, Christopher Mayhew and Jeremy Thorpe, with Mr Freddy Grisewood as question master. Inevitably the discussion contained more than the average amount of political argument, in view of the General Election, but there were lighter moments. Questioners came from Torrington and district.

If more local interest can be aroused there is a chance that Torrington County Council School will have its swimming pool next summer. “A few more donations would certainly enable us to start next year.” said Mr J W Bastin, the Headmaster. There is now the sum of £600 in hand, an appeal made to Torrington and district traders in midsummer having raised about £40. They anonymous donor’s gift has thus been doubled. Devon County Council are showing interest in projects of this nature and it is possible that some assistance may be forthcoming from the county.

The Old Toll Cottage, Taddiport, Torrington, is for sale.

There were numerous expressions of sympathy at the funeral service in St Michael’s Parish Church, Torrington, for Mrs Mary Susan (Pollie) Eslick, wife of Mr Thomas Eslick, who died at her home, 3 Calf Street, aged 79. The Rev P G Harrison officiated, assisted by the Rev W H Smale, of Peters Marland, and the organist was Miss M L Wright.

It is many years since the river Torridge, seen here at the Old Quay, Weare Giffard, has been reduced to such a trickle as during the past summer and early autumn.

Off to mission work – valedictory service and gift at Woolsery as Rev Eric J Lott, younger son of Mr and Mrs W T Lott, of Springfield, Woolsery, will be leaving England shortly for South India.

Competition subjects at the meeting of Woolsery WI were a ginger cake and a miniature harvest festival arranged on a tray. They were judged by Miss Ellis who had earlier spoken on and given a demonstration of Devonshire dishes. In the ginger cake competition the awards were: Mrs A Hill; Mrs G Lott. Harvest festival display awards were: Mrs L Cardew; Mrs L Chapple. Miss Hooper thanked Miss Ellis for her visit. The speaker was entertained by Mrs G Bailey and Mrs D Stevens, with Mrs R Moore assisting. The penny bag contest, run this month by Mrs N Gorrell, was won by Mrs J Gilbert.

At Woolsery there was much local interest in a presentation ceremony at the School. Referring to the Woolsery Youth Club, Mr Griffiths, said, amid laughter “I think in some quarters the Club was looked upon as a matrimonial agency.” Referring to the club decision to help others, Mr Griffiths said it was so refreshing, when one heard and read so much about gangs, Teddy Boys and violence, to find a club giving such gifts so generously. He was very proud that they were such a credit to the community. Seen in the picture are: Mrs E Johns, Mr C B Griffiths, Rosemarie Souch, Mr Jim Vanstone, Mr J Raffe, Mrs Raffe, Mrs J Jenn, Mr Ron Westlake and Mr Ron Chapple.

Royal North Devon Golf Club success in County foursomes at Westward Ho! with David Trapnell and J Giddy winning the open scratch foursomes cup of Devon Golf Union.

Years Ago - October

October 1922

Stories that might feel relevant today?

Northam Council General Purposes Committee has been in contact with the Ministry of Transport, in an attempt to get the motor buses to run to a timetable. The hope is that if a proprietor should refuse to do so, his operating licence would not be renewed.

On October 24, Conservative MPs at the Carlton Club voted to leave the coalition government; this was followed by many of them visiting 10 Downing Street, eventually forcing the resignation of the Prime Minister David Lloyd George.

No extra pay for night work. The railway companies’ proposals for modifying the present national agreement as to hours, wages and conditions for railway workers have just been published. According to Mr C T Cramp, the men’s leader, they will mean an average reduction in wages of about 10s a week. The proposals are:

A resolution viewing with regret the little progress being made with the construction of the Torrington-Halwill Railway, and consequently the small number of men employed, and requesting the Ministry of Labour to use their influence with the contractors to expedite matters and employ more labour was passed at Thursday’s meeting of Barnstaple and District Employment Committee. The Secretary, Mr J T Richards, said the official return taken from the pay sheets showed that the number employed on the construction of the railway was 119 on September 22. He suggested that many of the stories they heard should be taken with a grain of salt.

A pretty wedding took place at Alwington, the bride being Miss Laura Wickett and the bridegroom Mr H W Elliott.

A Clovelly wedding for Miss Lily Squire and Mr Albert Cole.

A pretty wedding was solemnised at All Saints’ Church, the contracting parties being Miss Ruth Jewell, daughter of Mrs S Jewell, High Street, Clovelly, and Mr John Burnett, eldest son of Mr and Mrs J Burnett, Brookfield Terrace, Bideford. The Rector, Rev T L V Simkin, officiated. The bride, who was given away by her brother, Mr F Jewell, wore a navy costume and a made hat of fawn ribbon. She carried a beautiful bouquet of sweet peas, white antirrhinum, roses and myrtle, made by Mr William Beer, gardener at Clovelly Court, the gift of Mrs Hamlyn. Miss Hester Jewell, bride’s sister, was the bridesmaid. She was attired in a grey costume with hat to match. Her bouquet, also the gift of Mrs Hamlyn, consisted of pink antirrhinum, blue and white Michaelmas daisies and asparagus fern. Mr A Beer, bride’s brother-in-law, carried out the duties of best man. Both bride and bridegroom received numerous and costly presents.

For failing to require lodgers to sign a statement under the Aliens Order, at Instow on August 21st, Ellen Molland, was summoned before the County Bench. Defendant wrote regretting the infringement; she did not know it was necessary to still obtain particulars. PC Clogg said he had previously warned defendant in August 1921. A fine of £1 was imposed.

The voters on Lundy Island – on the present register there are 13 – will have to cross to Instow to record their vote in the Barnstaple Division.

A pretty but quiet wedding has been duly solemnised in the Parkham Parish Church, the contracting parties were Mr Cobbledick, of Bude, and Miss Prance of this Parish. The Rector officiated. The bells were rung merrily for the occasion and they left the parish with good wishes for a long life and happy one.

The marriage of Miss Elizabeth Mill with Constable Martin took place at the Parish Church, Shebbear, on Tuesday. The bride was given away by her brother, a churchwarden. Mr G Pett acted as best man. Constable Martin is being removed to Appledore much to the regret of the parish, where, by his tact, courtesy, and punctuality to his duties, he has won golden opinions. The bride’s family are very old residents.

The wedding took place at Bembridge, Isle of Wight, of Miss Ethel Weaver, to Mr Charles W Bowden, son of Mr and Mrs Bowden of Torrington. The little village was en-fete on the occasion. Mr and Mrs Bowden left amid a shower of confetti and with many good wishes for Cowes and Winchester. The journey was made in a two-seater Calthorpe car, the bridegroom’s gift to the bride. The bridegroom had served in the great war.

Four years on from the end of WW1, it seems that people in the Gazette area are looking to the future. The first things which caught our eye in 3rd October’s paper are these two adverts from R J Arnold and Meredith’s.

Music is also a theme in the first paper of the month, with four adverts for piano and singing lessons plus one if you want to buy a piano – although the nearest shop is in Exeter. On a more personal note, do your Warner's corsets rust? If they do, read this advert from S Metherell and your problems will be solved!

Among Bideford traders, Heywood and Cock advertise new autumn millinery, winter coats, raincoats and jumpers; Steward & Co of 52 Mill Street, have vests, combinations and flannelette nightwear to keep you warm; and Arthur W Bennett of Market Place suggests preparing for a cold or wet winter with Valor Perfection Oil heaters, which come in two sizes and are suitable for everything from the nursery to the factory. Looking ahead to bonfire night, we have an advert from Butler’s Stores.

Braddick's promote their Christmas Club:

Tattersill’s advertise their Christmas fruit, although it seems rather early to be making cakes and puddings.

The following advert seems strange to us today:

Motoring stories reported this month - Henry Greenland from Hereford was fined 9 shillings for leaving his motor car unattended at Westward Ho! for an hour while he went for a bathe. Mr G S C Oliver of Northam left his car in Lower Kingsley Road without lights while he attended a dance in the Kingsley Gymnasium (now Kingsley Hall) and when questioned by PC Uglow, Mr Oliver said he “never had lights on moonlight nights and did not think they were necessary”. He was fined one guinea. An unnamed motorcyclist was fined for riding at a speed dangerous to the public in Instow with PC Clogg having estimated the speed to be between 30 and 35 mph. James H Vincent, who told PC Clogg his lamp went out every time his machine went over a stone, was fined 5s for cycling without a light at 11.15pm on August 22nd.

In the paper for 17 October there is a detailed report of the first Prize Day at Edgehill College since the fire and rebuilding. Captain Tudor Rees MP was guest of honour and spoke of the woman’s sphere in public life.

In a weather-related story, Mr F Wilkey spoke at a meeting of Northam Urban District Council to request that a shelter be built at Westward Ho! On the August Bank Holiday there were between three and four thousand people in the village, and all were left with no shelter when a storm hit. Mr J B Penhorwood added a plea for a shelter to be erected on Bone Hill in Northam. Mr S Fulford replied that as so much money was being spent on coastal erosion, the council could not commit any more at the moment.

As the year turns from summer to autumn, harvest festivals are being held in many local villages. Reports can be found from Abbotsham, Alwington, Appledore, Bradworthy, Bulkworthy, Clovelly, Hartland, Monkleigh, Northam and Parkham. Clubs are also reopening for the darker months; Hartland Men’s Club has restarted with a social evening, and Morwenstow Village Club now has new billiard and bagatelle tables.

Did you know that Bideford Cricket Club had a Tennis section? Maybe this was for the wives of the cricketers?

In other news, the Foundation Stone for the new Power Station to be built by the Bideford and District Electric Supply Company Ltd will be laid by the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mr H N G Stucley, JP.

There is a favourable report of the inaugural race meeting of the Shebbertown Racecourse Club. The course was laid out by Mr Skidmore Ashby at his home. The property was previously owned by Mr George Taylor and named Abbotsham Court.

For men wanting to widen their horizons, good situations are guaranteed on Australian farms for experienced men, also for young inexperienced men if used to manual work and work with heavy horses. The reduced passenger fare was £24, which is about £950 today.

October 1972

Births announced for Hazel and Vic Cartwright; Gillian and Patrick Houseman; Bridget and Michael Locke; Jane and John Pescod; Alistair and Margaret Reynolds; Derek and Susan Robinson; Isobel and Stuart Thomas; Caroline and Patrick Hewetson; Eileen and Ian Brown; Maureen and Tony Lumley; Preben and Jane Kendall Nielsen; Jean and Michael Prince; Roger and Carol Dean; Florence and Peter Evans; and Diana and Michael Tithecott;

Motorway link route may soon be known. The Minister will indicate this month the probably three mile wide corridor within which experts will determine the precise route of the road that will link North Devon with the motorway. This news from Jeremy Thorpe, MP, was given to members of the Bideford Chamber of Commerce. The president, Mrs Joy Baron, told Mr K Stacey that something should also be heard soon about the route from Barnstaple to Bideford.

There were enough broken eggs to make the biggest omelette in local history when this lorry overturned outside Annery Lodge on the Bideford-Holsworthy road. The lorry, owned by South West Egg Products of Taunton, was loaded with eggs. The Fire Service had to be called to hose down the road. The lorry is understood to have skidded on the greasy road surface when the drive was taking avoiding action.

A handsome profit of £96 has been passed to the Appledore branch of the RNLI by Bideford Ladies Circle as a result of their highly successful fashion show staged at the Durrant House Hotel, Northam, on three days. “We are extremely pleased with the result” said Mrs Sandra Morris. A full range of styles was shown with Petra Goddard, Mandy Morris, Carol Hickmott, Carole Langdon, Pat Binnie, Hazel Newell, Doreen MacNulty and Faith Burdick. The compere was Mrs Pauline Grant, whose fashion shop provided the gowns; hair styles were by Wyn Olley, footwear by Messrs Round and flowers by Ashley’s.

Mr and Mrs Cecil Bird celebrate their golden wedding. Mrs Bird was formerly Miss Dorothy Middleton, and they were married at St Mary’s Church, Bideford. Both were members of Bideford families and for all their married life their home has been in Meddon Street. They live now at Raymeroy – a name which has been derived from those of their three sons, Raymond, Mervyn and Roy. The couple’s golden wedding cake was made by Mr Bird’s aunt, Mrs W Beer, to complete an unusual treble – she also made their wedding and their silver wedding cakes.

A couple whose hobby is ‘to try to help other people’ celebrated their golden wedding anniversary. Every Friday Mr and Mrs John Burnett, of 91 Meddon Street, are to be found working at the local handicapped centre. Proof of the value placed on their services is provided by 84 cards, 17 bouquets and 5 telegrams. And a special anniversary party was arranged at the centre for the Burnett’s in recognition of their work. Mr Burnett worked for the Devon Trading Company for 35 years. His wife is formerly Miss Ruth Jewell, of Clovelly. There is one son, Mr Frank Burnett.

Ford and Lock’s open the biggest supermarket in Bideford, which is 7 times larger than the old store. A really unusual new feature is the chilled, walk-in dairy room which is one of the first in the country and stocked with a wide selection of butter, cream, yoghurts and cheeses. A revolutionary air-conditioning system in the shop will keep at a constant 70F. The store stays open until 8pm every Friday for the convenience of late-night shoppers. A spacious, airy staff lounge is gaily decorated and comfortably furnished, taking up the entire frontage of the store on first-floor level. It is equipped with a cooker, sink and drinks machine and there are modern cloakrooms.

To spend £3250 apiece on 101 Bideford old houses.

To mark her retirement after 24 years at the Torridge Hospital – 17 years as assistant matron and for the past seven years as matron – Mrs Mary D Ray was presented with a deep freeze cabinet by the hospital staff and friends in the medical and administrative branches of the health service locally. The gift was formally handed over to her by Dr William Ruddock, medical officer. In the photograph, are Mr and Mrs Ray, Mr J Morris and Dr Ruddock.

Every available seat taken and precious little room even to squeeze in and stand – such was the congregation for the annual harvest festival service at the Ship-on-Launch, Bideford, conducted by the Rev Martin Fredriksen. There was hardly room for the 70 different lots of harvest produce auctioned off after the service by Mr Arthur Wright to raise the sum of £42 that was divided equally between St Peter’s Church and the charity regularly supported by the landlady, Mrs E W Bond, and her customers, the Andrew Home for the Blind at Instow.

Large congregations helped to make history when they attended the final harvest thanksgiving services to be held in Lavington Congregational Church, Bideford. The Church, in existence as such since 1648, became Lavington United Reformed Church. It is now one of 36 Churches in the Devon District Council of the United Reformed Church.

Two parcels of land at Nattimoor, Buckland Brewer, in all about 51 acres, were offered for sale by public auction by Messrs Kivell and Sons. For lot 1, bidding commenced at £2,500, rising to £4,800; for lot 2, bidding commenced at £10,000 rising to £15,000. Both lots were acquired by Mr W H Brown, of Holwell, Buckland Brewer, a neighbouring farmer.

Buoy off Bucks Controversy. While herring fishing off Bucks Mills at the end of a spot known as the Gore, Mr J J Headon, of Ocean View, Clovelly, caught a buoy of about 18 inches, attached to weights. Fortunately there was little damage to the nets, and it happened to be a good night. Had the weather been bad it could have been dangerous. No one was allowed to obstruct a driftway for fishing and this was a regular spot for fishing he contented. Mr Headon added that he picked up the buoy which he considered was something to do with the proposed Bucks Mills sewer outfall. He had contacted Bideford Rural Council offices and Devon Sea Fisheries Committee.

Opposition to Bucks yellow lines.

The County planning department have agreed that 40 additional dwellings can be erected at Higher Clovelly on land expressly excluded from the restricted coastal preservation area and as infilling elsewhere at Higher Clovelly. The department suggested, and Bideford Rural Council have agreed, that the extension of the disposal works should cater for future development of this order as well as for the proposed car park development.

Clovelly Ladies’ Lifeboat Guild have raised £3,406 in the past year for the RNLI, reveals the annual statement of accounts. Sale of souvenirs accounted for £1,973.08 of the total. Whist drives raised £124.95; Christmas cards, £7.38; flag day collection, £154.68; boxes, £543.10; dance, £91.30; subscriptions, £7.55; centenary booklets, £13.65; donations, £21.82; slipway box, £67.56; tub in the boathouse, £200.40; rocking boat, £101.10. Details of the box collections: Tea room, £2.11; Kings Arms, £1.74; Hartland PO, £2.16; Hartland Quay, £2.45; Dr Mackenzie, £4.04; Mrs Biggs, £4.17; Mrs F Shackson, £85.50; Mrs Edwards, £235.50; Mrs Morris, £217.83; Mrs L Rowe, £74.90; Red Lion Hotel, £12.68.

A telegram from Australia helped to relieve the anxiety of Clovelly parents whose elder son, a probationary policeman, injured while successfully dealing with an armed intruder in the grounds of the Lebanese Consulate at Sydney. The message told Mr and Mrs A F Aust, of Higher Clovelly sub post office, that their son, Bernard, has been discharged from hospital. The Australian Prime Minister, Mr William McMahon and the Lebanese Consul have visited PC Aust and congratulated him on his bravery. Bernard, who was 23 last April, served an apprenticeship as a compositor with Polypress of Bideford. He went to Australia and after working at his trade and other jobs, he joined the New South Wales Police Force. His brother, Brian, is a constable with the Metropolitan Police.

Hartland’s bring back resident PC call.

Children, teachers and parents of Instow County Primary School collected five hundredweight of litter, including bottles and broken glass, when they organised a litter drive on Instow beach. The drive arose from a suggestion at a recent meeting of the school’s Parent-Teacher Association. It was planned as a thank-offering from the children for the local support given to their swimming pool fund, and at the same time it served to make the youngsters litter conscious. After working their way along the beach and over most of the sandhills area the children were rewarded with ice-creams all round, the gift of a local businessman.

A BBC camera group was at the Army Wading Trials unit at Instow making a film for the Blue Peter programme. The programme will feature Lesley Judd, being introduced into the mysteries of water-proofing engines – in this case a Land Rover – and later driving a vehicle in the demonstration pit at Instow and into the River Torridge.

The 100-year-old east window (dedicated to Mr Marris Guard) of Langtree Parish Church has been wrecked by vandals.

More than one car per council house in Monkleigh?

Mr George Olver, who has been manager at the Bideford branch of the Midland Bank since 1957, retires next month after a banking career which dates back 42 years. In retirement he will continue to live at Cloverbank, Northam.

Patt’s Bakery and premises at 7 Fore Street, Northam, for sale.

Blues and boogie pianist at Durrant House Hotel, Northam, where he has been running the ‘Hoor Nanny’ Show, Bideford Grammar School Old Boy John Morgan has flown to the United States for a month’s tour. While staying at the hotel the American promoter Don Smith heard him play and signed him up for cabaret clubs in and around San Francisco. He is also playing New York and Las Vegas, and will be recording an orchestral number he recently wrote. Some years ago when a 20 year old student at Manchester University, he won a talent contest, and he has since appeared on TV on a number of occasions.

Mr Amos Bridgman, of Vaddicott, Shebbear, well-known in the Westcountry as a farmer, meat expert and businessman, has sold through his company Norwich Provident, of Exeter, his chain of 19 butchers’ shops in Devon, and an abattoir at Newton Abbot. Seven of the shops were sold privately. The remaining 12 and the abattoir have been bought by Matthews Holdings Limited, who are based at Epson.

Mrs May Hutchings, who presided over Torrington’s water carnival, can certainly claim to have been a carnival queen with a difference. At 76, she must surely qualify for a Guinness Book of Records entry on age qualification alone, and there can be no carnival queen anywhere in the country who can boast such a long and valued service to charity. A former Mayor Torrington, for over 25 years she has been the Torrington organiser for the Blind of Devon collections and flag week, and among many other organisation for which she has helped to raise money are the Royal British Legion, the Cottage Hospital, Torrington Silver Band and Torrington Football Club. She was closely associated with the founding of the Bickford Centre at Torrington for the over-60s. All her life she has been a member of St Michael’s Church, Torrington, and was for many years a Sunday School teacher and member of the choir.

Torrington Town Council has decided to ask Devon County Council for a breakdown of the costs incurred in administering homes for the elderly in the county. They did so after Cllr William Cockram had told them that newspaper reports had put the cost last year at £17 per person per week, which he considered a ‘ridiculous figure.’ Cllr Cockram, said as chairman of Torrington Old Age Pensions Association he would be failing in his duty if he did not bring the cost to the notice of the Council. He asked his fellow councillors to compare the figure reported with the fact that last year pensioners were expected to live and keep house on £6.10 a week. He thought it was high time the County took a long look at the costs which, he maintained, could be cut without the elderly residents of the homes being hurt at all. The County Deputy Treasurer had pointed out that the inflationary effect of salaries, but there were such things as productivity agreements and a rise in salary should mean more work. Is it a case of ‘too many chiefs and not enough indians?’

The implementation of the ‘fair rents’ scheme has resulted in an increase in the number of inquiries from Torrington Rural Council house tenants interested in buying their houses.

Torrington Town Council have turned down an application for permission to park a mobile tea and hot dog stall in the South Street car park on Friday and Saturday evenings. Mrs Y M Matthews, who made the application, has been told that the Council’s car park by-laws specifically exclude this type of facility.

When the Torridge Inn, Torrington, held its first harvest festival in 1970 £25 was raised. Last year it was £40 and this year £45. All proceeds have been donated to Taddiport Church by the landlord and his wife, Mr and Mrs Fred Kingdon. The service was conducted by the Vicar of Torrington, Rev P G Harrison. Among the gathering were the Mayor and Mayoress of Torrington, Mr and Mrs Harold Pollard. Produce was abundant and was later auctioned by Mr Jack Skinner, who is chairman of Taddiport Village Hall Committee, assisted by Messrs Harold Oswin and W Allen. In the harvest competition winners were Mrs J Thacker, Mrs Brace, Miss F Holland, Mr Patch, P Dymond, Garry New and F Colegate.

The galleon that Torrington Cavaliers – builders of the world’s biggest bonfire – are constructing on the Commons has now reached such a stage that visiting motorists rub their eyes in disbelief. It is – supposedly – a model of the Cacafuego, which was destroyed by Sir Francis Drake. The eve of November 5th it will be put to the flames but not before a firework display has been staged from the ‘deck’. A civic party in a DUKW will lead a torchlight procession from the town Square to the galleon. The event will, no doubt, raise a considerable sum for charity.

As part of a quarter of a million pounds scheme, what was once the prep school for the old United Services College at Westward Ho! is to be converted to provide six homes. For an undisclosed figure, Messrs R Harris and Sons, of Barnstaple, have bought Buckleigh Place, an area of six acres which includes the former school and which was once in use as a holiday camp and also as a private country social club. In addition to the conversion of the old school building, the firm plan to build 13 superior type houses around a central swimming pool. It is expected the work will start in the New Year.

New head of Woolsery School, Mr Richard Chamings.

October 1997

Torridge schoolchildren should be safer on the streets and in their own homes following their participation in special four-day Life Skills event. Four hundred youngsters attended the course, where they encountered a range of potential hazards. In the picture are Stephen Pile, Oliver Poole and Jonathan Lock of Grenville College coping with a ‘mortar’ on the beach with the aid of coastguard Simon Wiseman.

Helen Perkins explains to Elizabeth Shortridge, Nicole Travers-Wakeford and Charlotte Brown

An alcoholic encounter for Megan Edmonds, Leitza Gorman, Gina Hocking and Bethany May of Monkleigh Primary School

The hastily arranged walking carnival in Bideford went ahead despite a small entry. But the parade, led by the carnival queen’s float, made a big impact as it processed. The event was held a week after the real Carnival should have taken to the road but was cancelled as a mark of respect to Diana, Princess of Wales. The procession acted as a curtain raiser for the big carnival which has been rearranged for November 22. Gemma and Scott Cartwright took the overall trophy at the walking carnival.

The carnival queen, Gemma Lacey, attendants Victoria Grill and Tammy-Marie Griffin, Fairy Queen Leanne Newton and flower girl Katie Dunn led the parade on the only float in the carnival

Cinderella and Prince Charming, alias Gemma Cartwright and Scott Cartwright

Football crazy kids – Kieren Wreford, Kevin Ashton and Martin Ashton

Bideford Catholic Women’s League showed their support for the North Devon charity, the Tarka Homes Trust, with the presentation of a cheque for £1,008. The money was raised at a recent auction of sales and promises. “We know of more than 40 families in the area who are concerned about the future of their children” said trust spokeswoman Ros Flack. The trust is a relatively new charity, having started its fundraising less than two years ago. The picture shows Ros Flack, Maxine Duffy, Joan Larner, Mary Wearne, Mo Hill-Paul and Olive McLauchlan.

Battle with aliens at the Milky Way! An investment of more than £500,000 has taken one of Devon’s major farm visitor attractions into a new world of entertainment. Unreal is the only word to describe the latest sci-fi addition to the Milky Way Adventure Park at Downland Farm, Clovelly, because there is nothing in reality to compare it with. The first of its kind in Europe, the Clone Zone – An Alien Encounter, takes virtual reality into a new dimension. Nothing is as it seems. “The whole experience was born out of a cross between the Krypton Factor, the Crystal Maze, Jackanory and a suspended roller coaster” said spokeswoman Tara Stanbury. Today's version of The Milky Way is HERE

Fisherman Owen McBride’s tussle with a large conger eel he was pulling into the family fishing smack resulted in Clovelly lifeboat being called to his aid. Owen, who was on his father’s boat, The Cornish Maid, out of Clovelly, cut his hand badly as he landed the creature from the waters off Hartland Quay. The lifeboat took him to shore and rendered first aid and then Owen was taken to hospital where the hand was stitched up.

Impressive barn conversion in Hartland for sale.

Georgian Town house for sale.

While on holiday in Austria a Northam woman has won – a holiday in Paris! Mrs Patricia Player of Bayview Road, won a free weekend for two in Gay Paree while on hoiday with direct-sell tour operator Travelsphere Ltd.

Shebbear £119,500 – detached south facing character home* 3-4 bedrooms* 2 reception rooms* double glazed* peaceful country setting* beautiful gardens* no immediate neighbours

Don Paterson, one of Scotland’s most celebrated modern poets, will star at The Plough Arts Centre, Torrington, in the Beaford Centre’s Lit Up! Literature Festival. He will be performing alongside members of The Plough’s writing group, First Thursday, who will be performing extracts from their best work. Check what's on at The Plough now HERE

New supermarket plan for Torrington.

40 South Street, Torrington, for sale.

Swiss Cottage is an individually-designed detached bungalow on the outskirts of Weare Giffard. The property is in a superb location only a few yards from Huntshaw Woods. Opposite the bungalow are open fields, more woodland and a fast flowing stream.

Weare Giffard £385,000 – exceptional detached residence* river frontage* large south facing gardens* 5 reception rooms* fully fitted kitchen/breakfast room* 7 bedrooms* en suite to master bedroom* 2 bathrooms* converted stone kiln* double garage.

Kite flying enthusiasts from as far afield as London, Bristol and Weston-super-Mare converged on Westward Ho! beach for the resort’s first Kite Day attraction. Fickle weather gave the resort too much sunshine and blue skies and people were frustrated by a lack of wind. But some of the kites were able to take to the air and a range of giant inflatable creatures on the beach helped to make it a colourful occasion.

News from September 1964

September 1964

Military guard of honour for Mr David Middleton Brook and Miss Virginia-Anne Pickering Richards, elder daughter of Colonel J Richards, CBE, RM (retd), and Mrs M L Richards, of Coombe, Abbotsham. This Bishop of Buckingham, Rt Rev G C C Pepys, and the Vicar of Abbotsham, Rev E G Bevan, officiated. Bridesmaids were Misses Sally Richards, Sally Ansell, Alex Culme-Seymour, Mary Parks, Jacqueline Ingram and Anna Pepys, with two pages, David Lomas and Giles Findlay. A fellow officer of the bridegroom, Mr Robert Faulkner, was best man and the users were Mr Brio Bovill, Mr John Calvert, Mr Peter Brook, Mr Christopher Hewetson, Mr Jeremy Ker, Capt Anthony Dunbar, Capt Patrick Shillington and Capt Alistair Campbell. A reception was held at Coombe, and the honeymoon was in Ibiza.

Northam Urban Council are to give 20 guineas to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution through the local committee. They are also to incorporate congratulations to Coxswain Sidney Cann on the decoration awarded him in the Birthday Honours. The chairman, Mr H E Hopkins, pointed out that the appeal for a donation had been made to him the national chairman of the Institution, he thanked the Council for their generosity.

It was a day to remember for six year old Denis Ford, when, out with his father, Mr Philip Ford, of Harbour Lights, Appledore, on a fishing trip in the estuary he asked if he could have a line. Almost immediately he cast overboard he caught an 8lb 8oz bass, followed by two of 5lb each. With such a catch so early in life it is obvious that he is going to be ‘Denis the menace’ as far as the local fish are concerned.

Mrs Bowden, of Western Avenue, Appledore, makes fishermen envious.

Did you use Carole’s Salon in Marine Parade, Appledore?

Mr John Ball, the yard manager of Appledore shipyard says ‘the volume of work being carried out here is now governed only the amount of labour available.’

Appledore shipbuilding yards have secured a £150,000 contract to build a new tug for the Grimsby firm of J A Pigott. In view of the yard’s present commitments it is thought unlikely that work on the tug can start until the spring, which would mean a delivery date in the following autumn. Twin-screw and of 160 horse power, the vessel is destined to handle large oil tankers calling at the new oil refineries on the South Bank of the Humber. Three tugs for Messrs Pigott have been built at the Appledore yards in previous years – the Lady Cecilia, the John Henry and the Charles Edward.

The Seagate Hotel, Appledore, is for sale by auction.

Charles Povey and Mervyn Harris (Ward Farm, Winkleigh) are on an overland trip to the Holy Land.

For the first time in its history Bideford County Secondary School has had a fifth year and all took the Devon Certificate of Secondary Education. In addition, although the pupils had done only two and a half years’ work for any examinations, it was felt that many were capable of trying GCE ‘O’ levels in certain subjects. Of 35 who gained CSE, 19 passed ‘O’ level in one or more subjects. The College of Preceptors leaving certificate was taken for the third year and of 64 candidates 31 obtained full certificates and 31 obtained certificated. Full certificates demand five subject passes including English. The following are the names of those receiving results – D Bartlett, A Birkett, S Bissett, B Cork, L Davies, S Fairchild, J Gorvin, J Langman, L Moyes, P Owen, S Patt, L Reed, P Watts, B Woolf, J Young, R Arnold, R Blight, T Bryant, D Butler, Alan Fisher, Albert Fisher, H Goldsworthy, S Harris, P Jackson, A McKenzie, P Kivell, O Lane, D Rees, D Skinner, G Smith, M Stevens, D Thisby, A Waker, G White, S V M Briscoe, L A Britton, B Cookney, G Cox, S J Eastman, M J Hare, J R M Huxable, P M Johns, V F Johns, C E Jones, S L Oswell, J M Pipkin, B E Pope, J A Prust, B J Schiller, M A Screech, P A Squire, H M Stevens, B Alford, D W Anstey, B F Aust, G S Beckley, C F Brackstone, K Evans, D J Inch, S H Lane, D J Metherell, D J Rendall, N A Skinner, K J T Stach, K E Windsor.

Housewives in the Alexandra Terrace area of Bideford were on the lookout. A pet monkey was believed to be roaming free. A notice ‘Monkey missing’ appeared in the window of no. 10 Alexandra, the home of the May family. Anxious housewives need not have worried. The monkey, a marmoset named Jennie, was later found in her owner’s house. Jennie was brought to this country from South America by Mr Christopher May, who is a Merchant seaman.

Without their singer, Brian Tilke, of Appledore, the Mysterymen pop group from Bideford face a dilemma. Members are Cliff Dark, David Viner, Tony Keen and Bob Allison.

An American girl who visited Bideford linked 78 years in the life of a local family. She was Miss Pamela Mary Champion, 21, who lives at Pittsford, Rochester, in New York. She is a granddaughter of the late Mr Sam Champion, who worked as a tailor in Bideford until he emigrated to Canada in 1886 as a lad of 19. Her father is a cousin of Mr and Mrs John Taylor, of 14 Capern Road, Bideford, and she stayed at their home for a week, during which time she met another relative, Mr George Russell, of Hillside, Upcott. It was the first time that a member of the Champion family, now settled in America, had returned to their native town. Pamela has been on a two month’s tour of Europe with a friend. She is employed assembling skeletons for use at colleges in the United States.

Ex-Navy man Mr Les Mott, superintendent of Bideford Parks, stands ready to run up the Western League championship flag presented to Bideford Football Club during their midweek meeting with Bristol City. Watching the ceremony is Mr Ernie Hopkins, Mr Les Phillips, and Mr George Templeman. The flag will be flown from the Sports Ground flagpole at every home fixture this season. And next…?

29 High Street, Bideford, is for sale.

Green Tiles, 19 Rectory Park, Bideford, is for sale.

Mr Nicholas Arthur Rowed and his wife Janet, leave North Devon and fly to Auckland, New Zealand, where he will take up an appointment with Bitumac Road Construction Company.

Two hundred and fifty out of work.

Mrs Elsie Day, 16 Fordlands Crescent, Raleigh, finds a grenade.

Bideford magician Ian Adair is to star in his own television series. The ten-minute programmes will be screened by Westward TV, starting in October.

Only small hydrofoils likely to be built by Bideford Shipyards Ltd at their Bank End works because of the lack of continuous high water.

For £39, 500 a Cornish hotelier bought the ancient Hoops Inn on the Bideford Clovelly road. A former coaching inn, it was sold by auction at Exeter for the trustees of the late Mr H J Snape whose son-in-law and daughter Mr and Mrs Hugo Irwin, have managed it for the past 12 years. The purchaser, Mr Douglas A Bosworth, of White House Hotel, Praa Sands, revealed afterwards that he will sell that property and remove to Hoops. The auctioneer, Messrs Vincent and Houseman, of High Wycombe, suggested that the inn, which has 16 bedrooms and 10 acres of gardens and farmland, provided considerable scope for motel development. The turnover in the year ended last April exceeded £21,000. The sale also included the stage coach which stands in the garden on the opposite side of the road. The property was put in at £30,000, rose by bids of £1,000 to £38,000 and them by sums of £500. Mr Snape, a master at Repton School, bought the inn in 1934; seven years later it was considerably damaged by fire but was carefully restored.

Clovelly lifeboat launched but yacht was not in danger.

Summer target for Clovelly hall.

A dispersal sale is held at East Dyke, Clovelly, for the representatives of the late Mr J C Hilton.

For 12 years Mr John Lambert Raymond Law, of Stitworthy Farm, Clovelly, has wanted to emigrate to Australia. But not until recently was he able to convince his wife that it would be the best step for them and for their four children. Their minds made up, the farm was soon sold. Shortly the family will be on the sea en route for Sydney. What prompted 37 year old Mr Law and his wife to take so important a step? Fundamentally it was the welfare of the children – Christopher, Brenda, Janet and Peter. Mr Law is convinced that in Australia they will have many more opportunities. Also contributing to their decision was the weather. They will travel first to Sydney because there is the home of Mr John Steele, who nominated them, He is a friend of Mr Law’s father. But Mr Law has an open mind about what work he will take up in Australia. The chances are that he will seek employment on a farm in order to get an insight into the difference between methods in this country and ‘down under’. Then he will make a final decision.

The Parish Council is bidding to ban street photographers and their monkeys.

Furniture and effects from West Penhill Farm, Fremington, are for sale on instructions from Mrs M P Hancock.

‘There are at least 26 Hartlands all over the world, but of these Hartland, Devon, is the oldest,’ so begins an interesting and useful ‘Introduction to Hartland, a quiet corner in Devon’ printed at the Jamaica Press, Hartland. The leaflet contains a description of the parish’s principal features, a diary of events for the summer months, hints on exploring the district with a useful map defining hamlet areas in this, the second largest parish in Devon, church and bus services, and local advertisements. This kind of production can prove most useful to holidaymakers and it is almost surprising other places do not produce something similar.

Mr Ernest John Fulford, of Highdown, Hartland, pleads guilty and is fined £10.

Mrs Jean Vary Campbell Barker, of Dawnmoor Farm, Langtree is fined £2 for leaving her car in a prohibited area.

No 5, Fore Street, Langtree, is for sale by tender.

Mass production of rabbits for the Gilbert family at their Monkleigh farm.

Northam Football Club won’t agree to any transfer for Keith Stapleton as he moves to Torrington to live.

Northam Church’s new furnishings, with a new communion kneeler designed by Mrs C Wiggins and Marcus Hookway provides something in memory of his parents.

‘Children play around open cesspit’. Protest to Northam Council about position on Burrows.

Mr Wyndham Lang, of Nethercott, Parkham, told the Gazette that he estimates he has lost £500 to ‘rustlers’.

It was a busy day for Torrington firemen as they were called to farms.

Mr Fred Vodden, of 11 Mill Street, Torrington, marked fifty years’ service with Messrs William Vaughan and Sons, glove manufacturers. Mr Vodden and his wife Katie have completed 98 years between them with the company. In the picture are Mr Michael Vincent and Mr Vodden.

Mr Ted Crompton declares that he is ‘not in the least worried about the position’ after 3 Torrington players are transferred – Ray Barnsby, Frank Shapland, Burridge - 2 have threatened to quit – Michael and David Darch - and another player did not turn up for a match – Jock Wilkie.

Appointment of full time Civil Defence officers in places such as Torrington was described as a ‘scandalous waste of public money’ by Ald F R Hodge, at a meeting of Torrington Town Council. It had been reported that a full time officer had been appointed for the Torrington area. Ald Hodge contended the appointment of full time officers was in many instances simply creating ‘jobs for the boys.’ The Civil Defence Corps had 10,000 fewer volunteers this year and this, he thought was because people were realising that there was something in it for some but nothing in it for others. He was not against Civil Defence in principle but wished the volunteer spirit which existed, be instanced from his own experience, in the Special Constabulary locally could be found in Civil Defence. Cllr C Quick complained of the dictatorial attitude of the County Council in appointing a full time Civil Defence officer without first approaching the Council. It was decided to protest to the County.

No new bridge from Westleigh to Appledore which Mr W Powell, of Westward Ho! says is ‘poppycock’.

From despair to jubilation – big family will not now be homeless. When ex-serviceman Mr F Branch was ordered to quit his home at 6 Westbourne Terrace, Westward Ho! the bottom fell out of his world. To find accommodation for himself, his wife and 8 of their 10 children who live at home was an impossibility. Well, that was how it seemed. Now, almost in a matter of days, despair has turned to jubilation. Not only is there a new home large enough for the family but also the opportunity, which he is to grasp, to acquire it. ‘Everybody is anxious to help now,’ he said. At the top of the list is SSAFA, which, on learning of the family’s plight, acted fast. Mr Branch said that ‘marvels’ had been achieved by representatives Mrs Richards of Coombe, Abbotsham, and Major F B Worsley, of Woolsery. The new five-bedroomed house is at 34 Clovelly Road and no doubt there would be plenty of help from the children, aged from 17 years to 8 weeks. Mr Branch has for some time been employed as an antique furniture restorer by Messrs Collins, of High Street, Bideford.

Do you need to approach SSAFA? Here is a link to the charity

A Devon County Council official is to investigate a suggestion that the entrance to a quarry in Woolsery should be blocked up to prevent children from entering it and subjecting themselves to danger. Woolsery Parish Council have written to Bideford Rural Council requesting that this be done, pointing out that fencing with which the Council had once sealed the entrance was now ineffective. The Divisional Surveyor, Mr L R Jackson, informed the Rural Council that he would look into the matter. The quarry is at Duerdon Farm.

Earlier start to Woolsery sewage scheme is urged.