“LaunchBideford” project.

Posted on 03/03/2025 by Tango Alpha

Torridge District Council has teamed up with SaveTheHighStreet.org and Bideford Town Council to launch an exciting competition designed to reward and elevate new or expanding entrepreneurs.

The project, known as LaunchBideford, is offering at least two businesses the chance to win six months of free space in Butchers Row at Bideford Pannier Market, along with a comprehensive package of hands-on, expert support to ensure their success!

The goal is to strengthen the local economy by incubating the most promising local businesses in vacant shop units, while inspiring many others to embark on their entrepreneurial journey. The competition officially opened on 28th February 2025 and winners will be selected before the end of March 2025.

Cllr Ken James, Torridge District Council, said “We are continuingly looking at ways to invigorate our local towns by creating new opportunities for local small businesses to help increase footfall and spending whilst providing an improved experience for residents and visitors.  Torridge District Council has teamed up with SaveTheHighStreet.org and Bideford Town Council to run a competition which will provide two spaces in the town centre for start-ups to test or launch ideas for a six-month period, risk free”.

Alex Schlagman, Founding Partner of SaveTheHighStreet.org, said “It’s time to turn vacant shops into incubators that attract, launch, and sustain the most promising independent high street entrepreneurs. We’re proud to be partnering with so many amazing local businesses, community champions and others across Devon to make LaunchBideford a reality. Successful high streets benefit everyone, and the more of us who join the stronger we all become”.

Kirsty Defranceski, Town Centre Project Officer at Torridge District Council, said: “LaunchBideford” is an innovative initiative that rewards entrepreneurs with rent-free space and support. This project has immense potential to inject some real energy into Bideford over the Spring and Summer by breathing new life into the town centre, strengthening local businesses, and enhancing community engagement. It’s a fantastic opportunity to create a lasting, positive impact on our community”.

For further information and for details on how to apply, please visit: https://savethehighstreet.org/bideford

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Shipping notes No. 239 (February).

Posted on 02/03/2025 by Tango Alpha

Bideford Quay.

No shipping this month.

 

Yelland Quay.

No shipping this month.

Appledore.

Atherstone still alongside quay, Quorn in shed.

In port –

Bremen (ex – Wilsom Limerick, ’18) – built 2012; flag Cyprus; crew & cargo unknown.

Bristol Channel Observations.

1/2 at 12.45 cargo vessel Onego Otra, inward bound for Swansea.

3/2 at 11.43 tanker Advantage Padovaa, owners Norient Product Poll Aps Denmark, inward bound for Portbury. (Seen again at 08.50 7th outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 03.34). At 17.56 vehicle carrier Auto Eco, owners Uniperssoal Madeira, inward bound for Portbury.

4/2 at 13.58 cargo vessel Wilson Gijon, owners Wilson Shipowning Norway, inward bound for Newport. (Seen again at 08.13 8th having sailed from Newport at 02.58). At 14.46 hrs vehicle carrier Hai He Kou, owners Cosco Shipping China, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 10.21.

5/2 at 09.28 cargo vessel Libero, outward bound from Sharpness having sailed at 22.37 4th

6/2 at 17.14 bulk carrier Aastind, 7,450 tons d.w., owners Aasne Bulk Norwary, inward bound for Newport. (Seen again at 08.44 outward bound from Swansea having sailed at 05.37). At 17.25 vehicle carrier Torino, 22,216tons d.w., owners Wallenius Wilhelmsen Sweden and Norway, outward bound from Portbury having sail at 11.01.

7/2 at 04.53 bulk carrier Aastvik, 7,511 tons d.w., owners Aasnes Bulk Norway, inward bound for Cardiff. At 16.53 vehicle carrier Grande Italia, 12,594 tons d.w., owners Grimaldi Line of Italy, inward bound for Portbury.

8/2 at 11.41 vehicle carrier Neptune Dynamis, 5,600 tons d.w., owners Dynamis Shipping Ltd Greece, inward bound for Portbury. (Seen again at 11.11 9th outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 06.35).

9/2 at 11.44 vehicle carrier Prontus Highway, 21,000 tons d.w., owners Kawaskai Kisen Kaisha Japan, inward bound for Portbury. This vessel is a new ship and her first visit to the Bristol Channel.She is using LNG for propulsion.

11/2 at 06.45 cargo vessel Misje Rose, 5,309 tons d.w., owners Misje Rederi Norway, inward bound for Newport. At 08.15 vehicle carrier Neptune Aegli, 6,580 tons d.w., owners Aegli Shipping Ltd Greece, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 03.17.

12/2 at 09.50 cargo vessel Emstral, inward bound for Sharpness. At 11.32 vehicle carrier Coral Leader, inward bound for Portbury.

15/2 at 08.16 vehicle carrier Auto Advance, 12,457 tons d.w., owners UECC Uniperssoal Madeira, inward bound for Portbury. At 09.44 tanker YM Jupiter, 15,955 tons d.w. owners Unicharter Line Turkey, inward bound for Avonmouth

16/2 at 08.47 cargo vessel Eems Sun, owners Eems Sun B.V. Netherlands, inward bound for Sharpness. At 11.52 tug Neptun, inward bound for Avonmouth with tow.

17/2 at 08.30 cargo vessel Elenora, inward bound for Cardiff. At 08.45 cargo vessel Eems Drait, inward bound for Sharpness. At 09.30 cargo vessel Eidsvaag Sirius, inward bound for Sharpness. At 12.50 cargo vessel Wilson Main, owners Wilson Shipowning , inward bound for Sharpness

18/2 at 17.20 container vessel Conship Fun, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 12.02. At 17.32 cargo vessel Summi, outward bound from Sharpness having sailed at 09.43.

19/2 at 13.25 cargo vessel Prima Lady, inward bound for Newport.

22/2 at 07.28 vehicle carrier Liao He Kou, owners Cosco Shipping China, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 02.45. At 15.50 vehicle carrier Neptune Aegli, 6,580 tons d.w., owners Aegli Shipping Greece, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 21.30 21st. At 16.05 cargo vessel Santa Helena, inward bound for Cardiff. At 18.47 aggregate carrier Aasfoss, 9,100 tons d.w., owners Aasnes Bulk Norway, inward bound for Newport.

23/2 at 11.14 tanker Dutch Aquamarine, 6,414 tons d.w., owners Essberger Germany, inward bound for Avonmouth.

24/2 at 05.44 vehicle carrier Vega Leader, 16,396 tons d.w., owners Latte Maritima S.A Japan, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 00.43. At 09.31 vehicle carrier Autosun, 6,670 tons d.w., owner Uniperssoal Madeira, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 05.47. At 09.44 cargo vessel Eems Servant, outward bound from Newport having sailed at 23.33 22nd.

26/2 at 06.58 container vessel Elbteam, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 17.09 24th.

Regards,

Norman.

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Bideford Film Society – March events.

Posted on 01/03/2025 by Tango Alpha

Please also see our website www.bidefordcinema.org.uk

All showing at The Theatre, Kingsley School.

* * * *

Mickey 17 (15) (137 mins).

Showing Friday 28th and Saturday 29th March 7.30pm (doors open 7.00)

Robert Patinson, Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette & Mark Ruffalo. Director Bong Joon-ho.

A science-Fiction dark comedy. Wanting to get off Earth, destitute Mickey Barnes signs up to be an “expendable” on the human colony Nilfheim. As an expendable, Mickey undertakes several dangerous assignments he is not expected to survive, with a new body being regenerated each time he dies.

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One Hundred Years Ago – March 1925.

Posted on 01/03/2025 by Tango Alpha

A collection of articles from the ‘Bideford Gazette’ during March 1925, kindly selected by Bideford Community Archive.

The coasts all round Devon and Cornwall suffered badly by the gales. Roads at Weare Gifford were impassable to wheeled traffic for a time owing to floods in the Torridge Valley, caused by the heavy rains. At Hartland Quay the last end portion of the old Quay wall was washed away by the storm, and there were also two heavy falls of cliff, one on each side of the Hotel, which was undamaged.

Advertisements – Buy the new model Aeolian Pianola Piano from J T White. J U Fulford & Sons Ltd, Queens’ Wharft, Bideford (and at Bude) is calling. World’s Wonders and World’s Stores in Bideford.

The Terminus Inn, Bideford, renews its licence.

Fifty years’ service at The Bideford Gazette Office by Mr W H Hoare.

At a special meeting of Bideford School Managers, it was decided to further advertise for applicants for the post of certified assistant at Old Town Boys School, Bideford, Mr Cawsey having withdrawn his application. It was suggested that the words ‘with drawing qualifications’ should be added.

Miss May Harris and Miss Kitty Cann, pupils of Edgehill College, have passed the recent London University Matriculation Examination.

The death occurred at his residence, the Strand, Bideford, of Mr William Joce, JP, in his 93rd year. The deceased was educated at the Bideford Grammar School which at that time was on the site of the present Bridge Buildings. He took a very keen and intelligent interest in local affairs. He followed the career of his father, to a large extent succeeding him in 1886 as secretary of the Bideford Gas Company.

Funeral of Mr T A Fogaty.

Mr Stanley Bluett and Miss Florence Rogers are married in Plymouth.

A pretty wedding took place at Bideford Parish Church, the contracting parties being William Thomas, only son of Mr and Mrs W Beer, of Rocklea, East-the-Water, and Audrey, fourth daughter of Mr and Mrs H Steer, The Bungalow, Upcott. Mr J Bonetta acted as best man. A reception was held at Rocklea.

The very handsome solid silver tea service presented to Mr G J D Wheeler on his retirement from the National Provincial Bank was chosen from the very extensive stock of G F Truscott (late Squires), Silversmiths, High Street, Bideford and Sidmouth.

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Shipping notes No. 238 (January).

Posted on 06/02/2025 by Tango Alpha

Bideford Quay.

Mair now based at Bideford.

 

Appledore.

Atherstone still alongside Quay, Quorn in Shed.

The cargo vessel Baltic Anka sailed from Appledore 19.13 4th. She had discharged 2,901 tons rape meal.

Amedeus – (ex- Hansa Lion ’01, Zeeland ’05); built 2001; flag St Vincent & Grenadines; from Wismar to Neath; arrived 13/1, sailed 15/1; discharged 1,650 tons wood pellets.

 

Yelland Quay.

No shipping since last issue.

 

Bristol Channel Observations.

2/1 at 09.57 vehicle carrier Morning Charlotte, 22,578 tons d.w., owners Euckor Car Carriers South Korea, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 04.40.

6/1 at 10.01 vehicle carrier Clover Ace, inward bound for Portbury. At 15.06 vehicle carrier RCC Asia, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 10.21. At 15.50 ro-ro vessel Ville de Bordeaux, owners Airbus France, inward bound for Portbury to collect Airbus wings. (Seen again at 14.29 7th outward bound having sailed at 09.25). At 17.35 cargo vessel Eemslift Hendrika, inward bound for Avonmouth.

7/1 at 11.31 container vessel Contship Top, 13,803 tons d.w., owners Container Ship Management Germany, inward bound for Portbury. At 12.46 vehicle carrier Auto Eco, owners UECC Uniperssoal Madeira, outward bound from Portbury having sailed 20.12 29th. At 14.54 cargo vessel Spanaco Fidelity, outward bound from Silloth having sailed 12.46 3rd (she had been sheltering in Blue anchor Bay).

9/1 at 12.00 bulk carrier Brave Star, inward bound for Newport.

10/1 at 10.38 cargo vessel Fast Jet, owners Fast Line Belgium, outward bound from Sharpness having sailed at 03.03. At 17.30 bulk carrier Karewood Star, 6,315 tons d.w., outward bound from Swansea having at 13.04.

11/1 at 07.40 bulk carrier Cetus Bowhead, 35,000 tons d.w., inward bound for Newport. At 09.55 vehicle carrier Coral Leader, 18,403 tons d.w., outward bound from Portbury having sailed 3rd. At 11.04 tanker Dutch Aquamarine, 6,414 tons d.w., owners Essbberger Hamburg, inward bound for Barry.

12/1 at 07.58 cargo vessel Eems Servant, inward bound for Sharpness. At 09.27 cargo vessel Wilson Grimsby, owners Wilson Shipowning Norway, inward bound for Avonmouth. At 10.55 cargo vessel Sky Wish, inward bound for Cardiff. At 17.50 bulk carrier Star Dalmatia, inward bound for Portbury.

14/1 at 08.40 cargo vessel Pride, 2,981 tons d.w., owners Biese Chartering Management Germany, inward bound for Avonmouth. At 15.55 cargo vessel Theseus, outward bound from Sharpness having sailed at 06.52.

17/1 at 06.08 vehicle carrier Bosphorus Highway, inward bound for Portbury. At 12.51 cargo vessel Sarah B, 2,300 tons d.w., outward bound from Newport having sailed at 04.50 hrs. At 14.05 vehicle carrier Jasmine Leader, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 09.07.

18/1 at 13.06 cargo vessel Amedeus, 1,700 tons d.w., owners Erica Shipping Kingston, outward bound from Neath. At 14.30 bulk carrier Cetus Bowhead, 43,433 tons d.w., outward bound from Newport having sailed at 09.18.

19/1 at 15.15 vehicle carrier Grand Legacy, inward bound for Portbury. At 16.30 vehicle carrier Autosun, 6,670 tons d.w., owners UECC Uniperssoal Madeira, inward bound for Portbury.

20/1 at 06.20 vehicle carrier Neptune Dynamis, owners Dynamis Shipping Greece, inward bound for Portbury. At 12.59 bulk carrier Star Dalmatia, outward bound from Portbury.

23/1 cargo vessel Zeycan Ana, inward bound for Newport.

26/1 at 08.30 bulk carrier Brave Star, outward bound from Newport having sailed at 23.08 25th (passing very slowly at about 3 knots. I think she may have had engine problems).

29/1 at 10.25 BC Maccoa, outward bound from Waterford (she had been sheltering from the bad weather). At 10.30 cargo vesssel Santa Helena. At 11.05 cargo vessel Rheintal, inward bound for Avonmouth. At 15.05 bulk Carrier Federal Yukon, owners Canadian, outward bound from Cardiff having sailed 13.04 23rd.

30/1 at 05.45 cargo vessel Garip Baba, outward bound from Newport having sailed at 18.02 hrs 28th.

31/1 at 08.25 cargo vessel Fehn Lyra, inward bound for Cardiff. At 10.03 cargo vessel Libero, inward bound for Sharpness.

Regards,

Norman.

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The Murder Mystery Company.

Posted on 05/02/2025 by Tango Alpha

Are you planning a special event? A Birthday Party, a family celebration a corporate event, or even a charity fund-raiser? Are you looking for a truly memorable way to entertain your guests? Then the cast at ‘Murder We Wrote’ is just what you’re looking for.

This North Devon-based Murder Mystery Company has been entertaining North Devon audiences for over two years. Our original scripts include intrigue, plot twists and fully interactive outrageous characters. Our bespoke events incorporate a minimum of 6 actors, plus a surprise appearance at the end of our Police Inspector to help reveal the culprit.

You can find out more about our mayhem and local charity work or get in touch via our website www.murderwewrote.co.uk

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‘Man Down’ mental health support.

Posted on 03/02/2025 by Tango Alpha

 

 

All men welcome to come along to our friendly, non-judgemental and supportive peer support group.

Directions:When you get to Marlborough Court, turn left and then left again where the car park is. Look out for the Man Down signage at the entrance of car park. Entrance is at the back of the building, through the metal gates.

Hope to see familiar and new faces for a brew and biscuit.

Let’s Talk About It.

Man down – supporting men’s mental health.

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One Hundred Years ago – February 1925.

Posted on 01/02/2025 by Tango Alpha

A collection of articles from the ‘Bideford Gazette’ during February 1925, kindly selected by Bideford Community Archive.

Births – at King’s Arms, The Quay, Bideford, to Mr and Mrs Manning, a son; to Mr and Mrs R H Morrow, a daughter; to Mr and Mrs R Waring (nee Bertha Parson), a daughter; at Lower Meddon Street, Bideford, to Mr and Mrs A J Beer, a son (nee Doris Garland);

Silver Wedding – William Teed Braddick, son of Mrs J J Braddick, to Nellie Tucker.

The local Conservatives had a busy week, with meetings held at Barnstaple, Bideford and Hartland together with a Women’s meeting at Bideford. Mr Basil Peto MP and his wife attended all but the Hartland gathering.

A property – 7 Furzebeam Terrace, Bideford – is for sale.

At the close of afternoon school the senior classes of Bideford Old Town School met together to bid farewell to Mr H W Shute, who has been for over 26 years on the staff of the school and who leaves for the USA.

At Bideford, a very fine concert was given in the Lavington enlarged Sunday Schoolroom kindly arranged by Mrs E H Trapnell, in aid of Lavington Primary Memorial Hall Fund.

The 2nd annual prize distribution in connection with the Church Lads Brigade took place in the Bideford Church Institute. The proceedings commenced with a free tea to the boys and considerably over 100 lads sat down to a wonderful spread provided by the Ladies Committee. After the tea a concert was held at which the following ladies and gentlemen kindly assisted, Mr R Harper, the Rev Feles, Mr Johns, Mr Carpenter, and Miss Kivell’s theatrical party who gave a most amusing and excellently acted sketch.

Frederick and Albert Brock, labourers, were in court having been found in possession of nets known as “engines” and used for catching rabbits. This was the first prosecution under the Poaching Prevention Act in Bideford for many years, although twenty years ago such cases were very frequent. The offence is alleged to have happened at Turner’s Wood near Kenwith on land owned by Mr H N G Stucley. The men were also in possession of a ferret and a terrier. At a Children’s Court at Bideford, a twelve years old boy was summoned for stealing £4 1s 10d from an offertory box in the Vestry at St Peter’s Church on December 27th.

Mr A W Cock, offered at auction at Bideford the freehold shop and dwelling house known as 59 Mill Street, Bideford, in the tenure of London Central Meat Co. Ltd. Bidding went to £700 at which figure the property was withdrawn, but was sold the same evening at a substantially larger figure.

Bideford County Brewster sessions. Mr T Oerton, jnr, applied for the transfer of the license of the New Inn, Westleigh, from Mr J E Goss to Mr James William Brown. On the application of Mr H R Bazeley the music and dancing license of the Kingsley Gymnasium, Westward Ho! was transferred from Mrs P R Moore to himself. Mr W F Watts applied for the transfer of the cinema licence of the Gaiety, Appledore, from Mr Samuel Hawkins to Mr J A Penny. Mr Charles Pickard applied for a music and dancing license for the new Parish Hall at Abbotsham, this being a new application.

The funeral has taken place at Bideford Higher Cemetery, Rev J T Halstead officiating, of Mrs Bessie Barnard, widow of the late Mr Joseph Barnard, of Somerton, Somerset, and youngest daughter of Mr John Dullam, of Lower Yelland, Fremington. Her only daughter, May, predeceased her about ten years ago. Mrs Barnard was a life-long and consistent member of the Wesleyan Church.

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RHS Rosemoor – 2025 programme.

Posted on 24/01/2025 by Tango Alpha

A packed events programme planned for the whole year at the gorgeous gardens just outside Great Torrington.

A highlight is the arrival of the much-loved characters from the children’s classic Guess How Much I Love You, by Sam McBratney and Anita Jeram, in a special garden trail which will run throughout 2025.

Young visitors will be able to enjoy this playful, interactive trail which re-enacts some of the adventures of the iconic Little Nutbrown Hare, while exploring the many colours, textures and shapes found in nature. A programme of seasonal activities is also planned to accompany the trail through the year.

The full events schedule truly has something for everyone, featuring crafts, classic cars, cooking, and art – see full listings below:

Alpine Garden Society Show Sat 22 Mar

Giant Easter Egg Hunt – Crack the Egg-nigma code Sat 5 – Mon 21 Apr

Wool and Fibre Weekend Sat 12 – Sun 13 Apr

RHS National Rhododendron Show Sat 26 – Sun 27 Ap

Bonsai Show Southwest Sat 3 – Sun 4 May

Plant Heritage Spring Fair Sun11 May

The Great Summer Garden Game-A-Thon Sat 24 May – Sun 1 Jun

Festival of Roses Sat 14 Jun – Sun 13 Jul

Rose Weekend Fri 20 – Sun 22 Jun

Summer Forest Fun Adventure Sat 19 July – Sun 31 Aug

Vintage Weekend Sat 26 – Sun 27 Jul

Summer Flower Show Fri 15 – Sun 18 Aug

Plant Heritage Autumn Fair Sun 7 Sept

Wonder of Autumn Sat 27 Sept – Sun 19 Oct

Festival of Flavours Sat 4 – Sun 5 Oct

Devon Orchid Society Show Sat 11 – Sun 12 Oct

October Half Term Sat 25 Oct – Sun 2 Nov

Living Sculptures Weekend Sat 8 – Sun 9 Nov

Winter Sculpture Exhibition Sat 8 Nov – Sun 31 Jan

RHS Glow Illuminations Fri 21 Nov – Thurs 27 Dec

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‘Bideford Legends’ – 4.

Posted on 23/01/2025 by Tango Alpha

Marsh Farm was built on a low-lying site in Northam Road, prone to flooding, and became derelict and abandoned some time ago.

The site has now been redeveloped, with levels raised overall, the stream culverted, and the farmhouse restored to its former state.

These photos are of the building before and after the restoration –

Before –

After –

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British Naturalists’ Association – local events, 2025.

Posted on 10/01/2025 by Tango Alpha

Celebrating Nature and the countryside.

The British Naturalists’ Association is a Registered Charity 296551

Please see below our events for 2025.

Sunday, April 13th.

By popular request a visit to Dunsford Nature Reserve for a level walk

beside the River Teign. Meet at the CP* at 9.30 am or at 11.00 am if

going direct at Steps Bridge (Map Ref SX 803 882). Packed lunch, stout

footwear. Possible cream tea afterwards at the nearby picturesque

Fingle Bridge.

Sunday, May 18th.

A guided walk around the beautiful Marsland Nature Reserve for the

small pearl bordered fritillaries followed by a walk down to the coast

in the afternoon. Meet at The Pill car park in Bideford at 10.00 am or

at Marsland /Gooseham Mill (Map Ref SS 231 172) at 11.00am if going

direct. Bring a packed lunch. Possible cream tea afterwards.

June 2nd – 6th.

BNA trip to Dorset – contact Chairman Brian Sims in advance as

booking is essential for this break away.

Sunday, June 22nd.

A guided walk around Woodhouse organic farm for wild flower meadows,

birds, butterflies, dragonflies and possibly deer and otter.Meet at

the CP* at 10.15am or at 11.00am if going direct (Map Ref SS 714

221) (Post code EX36 4JH). Steepish in places. Packed lunch. Possible

cream tea afterwards.

Sunday, July 13th.

Discover some wild plant properties on a herbal plant walk on Braunton

Burrows led by John Breeds. Meet at the Sandy Lane car park (Map Ref

SS 463 350) at 11.00 am. Car park charge. Bring a packed lunch.

Possible cream tea afterwards.

Sunday, August 17th.

Another requested walk around Halsdon Nature Reserve, Dolton, through

woodland and along side the River Torridge for possible kingfisher and

sand martins. Meet at 11.00 am at the lower entrance (Map Ref SS 560

117) with sturdy footwear and a packed lunch. Possible cream tea

afterwards.

Sunday, September 7th.

A walk along the banks of the picturesque River Barle at Tarr Steps.

Meet at the CP* at 9.30am or in the Tarr Steps car park at 11.00am

(Map Ref SS 872 323) Bring a packed lunch. Level walking apart from

the car park down to the river and back. Possible cream tea

afterwards.

Tuesday, October 21st.

The red deer rut on Exmoor. Meet at the CP* at 9.30am or if going

direct then at the Simonsbath car park which has toilets (Map Ref SS

774 394) at 10.30 am. Bring a packed lunch, warm clothing and suitable

footwear.

Saturday, November 8th.

Annual General Meal, at the Royal North Devon Golf Club at Westward

Ho!, 6.30 pm for 7.00 pm. After the meal there will be entertainment

before the serious part of the evening when you decide what outings

you would like for your branch in the forthcoming year.

Sunday, December 7th.

Coach trip to the Wildfowl and Wetland Trust site at Slimbridge.

Leaving Kingsley Statue in Bideford at 8.00 am and picking up by prior

arrangement at Instow, Yelland, Fremington and Bickington before

Barnstaple Square at 8.30 am. Return journey at 4.30 pm after the

“feeding frenzy”.Although there is a restaurant on site it’s best to

bring your own refreshments as well as suitable clothing and footwear.

Non-members welcome.

Sunday, January 18th , 2026

Annual Birdwatching Bonanza. Meet at the CP* at 9.00am. If going

direct be at Dart’s Farm at 10.15am (Postcode EX3 0QH) visiting Dart’s

Farm, the RSPB Reserves at Goosemoor and Bowling Green Marsh, the

River Clyst, the Goat Walk and possibly Powderham. Packed lunch, hot

drinks, warm clothes. Level walking,

PLEASE NOTE: PARTICIPATION ON ALL OUTINGS IS AT YOUR OWN RISK

CP* is the former Park and Ride car park in Barnstaple by Park School.

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Shipping notes No. 237 (December).

Posted on 05/01/2025 by Tango Alpha

Bideford Quay.

Trinity House vessel Mair alongside.

Appledore.

Quorn still in shed, Atherstone alongside quay.

In port – Baltic Anka – built 2024: owners unknown; arrived 31/12, sailed 1/1/25; cargo either rape seed or animal feed.

Yelland Quay.

Deo Gloria – 4/12 2 trips, 5/12 1 trip, 6/12 1 trip. Between 7 and 10th No trips – vessel was anchored off Penarth sheltering from storm Darrah, and then into Avonmouth to discharge, prior to reverting to her normal program discharging at Yelland. 10Th 2 trips, 11th 2 trips, 13th 2 trips, 14th 2 trips, 15th 2 trips, 16th 2 trips, 17th 1 trip. Thereafter vessel returned to home base Garston on the River Mersey.

Bristol Channel observations.

1/12 at 05.45 vehicle carrier Grande Colonia, 12,292 tons d.w., owners Grimaldi Line of Italy, inward bound for Portbury.

2/12 at 07.30 vehicle carrier Emerald Leader, 10,819 tons d.w., owners Nippon Yusen Kaisha Japan, inward bound for Portbury. At 09.44 vehicle carrier Morning Charlotte, 22,578 tons d.w., owners Eukor South Korea, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 04.20. At 09.57 vehicle carrier Auto Eco, 16,995 tons d.w., owners UECC uniperssoal Madeira, outward bound from Portbury having sailed 05.10. At 12.29 vehicle carrier Autosun, 6,670 tons d.w., owners UECC Uniperssoal Madeira, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 07.03. At 11.20 cargo vessel Eikborg, 3,442 tons d.w., owners Wagenborg Shipping B.V Netherlands, inward bound for Avonmouth.

9/12 at 15.21 vehicle carrier Autosun, 6,670 tons d.w., owners UECC Uniperssoal Madeira, outward bound from Prtbury having sailed at 09.55. At 15.34 cargo vessel Lady Hanna, owners Wijnne & Barends Netherland, inward bound for Newport. At 15.55 cargo vessel Baltic Moon, inward bound for Cardiff.

10/12 at 11.48 cargo vessel Wilson Gydnia, owners Wilson Shipowning Norway, inward bound for Newport.

11/12 at 05.40 vehicle carrier Auto Eco, 16,995 tons d.w., owners UECC Uniperssoal Madeira, inward bound for Portbury. (Seen again at 11.34 14th outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 07.35 13th). At 07.07 vehicle carrier Saic Anji Splendour, inward bound for Portbury. At 08.10 vehicle carrier Oregon Highway, 17,669 tons d.w., owners Kawasaki Kisen K.K Japan, inward bound for Portbury. At 06.15 cargo vessel Wilson Cadiz, 4,450 tons d.w., owners Wilson Shipowning Norway, outward bound from Newport having sailed at 00.16. At 08.17 cargo vessel Celtic Ambassador, 5,200 tons d.w., owners Charles W Willie & Co Cardiff, inward bound for Cardiff.

13/12 at 11.25 cargo vessel Lady Hanna, owners Wijnne & Barends Cargadoors-en-Agentuukantoren BV Netherlands, outward bound from Newport having sailed at 05.48.

15/12 at 07.02 vehicle carrier Lake Annecy, inward bound for Portbury. (Seen again at 17.00 19th having sailed at 10.10). At 08.35 vehicle carrier Turquoise Ace, owners MOL Auto Carrier Express, inward bound for Portbury. (Seen again at 13.43 19th outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 08.41). At 08.45 vehicle carrier Neptune Aegli, 6,580 tons d.w., owners Aegli Shipping Greece, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 03.38.

16/12 at 07.56 bulk carrier Apagon, inward bound for Portbury. At 15.41 vehicle carrier Blanco Ace, owners MOL Autgo Carrier Express Japan inward, bound for Portbury.

18/12 at 14.20 vehicle carrier Silver Soul, 27,564 tons d.w., inward bound for Portbury. (At 12.28 22nd seen again outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 22.15 hrs 21st).

19/12 at 15.58 tanker YM Jupiter, 15,995 tons d.w., owners Unicharter Line Turkey, inward bound for Avonmouth.

20/12 at 10.32 cargo vessel Tim, inward bound for Cardiff. At 14.42 bulk carrier Hadell, outward bound from Avonmouth having sailed at 09.09.

21/12 at 06.30 cargo vessel Tao Brave, inward bound from Newport. At 07.29 vehicle carrier Grand Detroit, 12,420 tons d.w., owners Grimaldi Line of Italy, inward bound for Portbury.

25/12 at 16.45 cargo vessel Barents, inward bound for Sharpness.

29/12 at 11.00 vehicle carrier Ruby Ace, 18,724 tons d.w., owners Mitsui OSK Lines Japan, inward bound for Portbury.

Regards,

Norman.

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One Hundred Years Ago – January 1925.

Posted on 01/01/2025 by Tango Alpha

A collection of articles from the ‘Bideford Gazette’ during January 1925, kindly selected by Bideford Community Archive.

The eclipse of the sun on 24 January was marred by heavy cloud; the only features noticeable in Bideford were “a darkening of the sky and an unusual coldness”.

Bideford Rural District Council, Mr W Harris presiding, interviewed the selected four of the 21 applicants for the vacant post of Road Surveyor for the District and appointed Mr G E Muller, Member of the Institute of Municipal and County Engineers, and assistant surveyor to Goring Rural District Council, Reading. The salary is £250 a year, inclusive of travelling expenses. Mr Muller is 41 years of age.

Bideford Bridge – new carriageway opened to traffic.

At the recent examination of the R.A.M. and R.C.M. the following pupils of West Bank School were among the successful candidates; P Berry, A Reeve, and U Radford. Miss Mounthaes and Miss Benson prepared them.

A meeting will be held in the Bideford Working Men’s Conservative Club for the purpose of inaugurating a Society for Political Discussions.

R Blackmore and Sons, Auctioneers, have been instructed to sell Torridge View, 4 Buttgarden Street, Bideford. The stone-built house is described as being in a high, healthy situation and is connected with Town Water, main sewer and gas main. The main of the Electric Light Company passes immediately outside. The property was eventually sold after the auction for over £900.

Other properties for sale – dwelling house known as and being Duoro Cottage, Orchard Hill, Bideford, 1 Kingsley Street,

At Bideford Council meeting it was reported that the Bridge Trustees had presented two granite posts to the town, which were to be utilised at the entrance to the war memorial at East-the-Water. Mr Huxham, in moving that the Trustees be thanked said the gift was worth at least £80. A proposal to install a children’s sand pit in Bideford Park has been put forward by Councillor H W Fulford. Plans for the proposed new Bideford to Northam road (previously part of the Bideford to Westward Ho! railway line) are being forwarded to the County Council. Steps will be taken to begin the process of acquiring the necessary land.

An attendance of 180 patronised the dance and whist drive held by the local branch of the British Fascisti at Bideford Church Institute, a very pleasant evening being spent. The Mayor, Dr E J Toye, distributed the prizes to the whist drive and other winners: Mrs Brayley, Mrs Ross, Mrs Williams, Mr Seldon, Miss Shute, Miss Evely.

Bideford Bowling Club is holding a dinner at Tanton’s Hotel, on Friday, January 30th, at 6.30pm. All members are asked to make an effort to be present and the Committee invite them to kindly obtain their tickets on or before Monday, the 19th inst. to enable arrangements for the accommodation of visitors. The guests will include Mr R Hodge, of Torrington, the English champion, who will exhibit the trophy he has won.

Tenantry and workmen on the Yeo Vale Estate, near Bideford, have made a presentation of a handsome silver bowl to Mr Robert Lucian Kirkwood, of Eaton-place, SW1, and of Yeo Vale, on the occasion of his coming of age. The gift, which was forwarded to Mr Kirkwood in London, was accompanied by a letter signed by Mr W H Sanders, of Orleigh Mills and Mr Robert Lott. The silver bowl was supplied by Mr Truscott, High Street, Bideford.

A very pretty wedding was solemnised at the Anglican Church of the Messiah, Toronto, Canada, the contracting parties being Mr C A Stevenson, of Toronto, and Emily Ellen (Nellie), eldest daughter of Mr and Mrs T Backway, formerly of 24 Brookfield Street, Bideford.

The fiftieth anniversary of the death of Charles Kingsley, the great Devonshire novelist, was commemorated in Bideford, which owes so much to Kingsley, by the placing of a laurel wreath on his life-like statue which graces the entrance to the Park. A eulogy was delivered by the Mayor, Dr E J Toye, and appropriate references also made by Alderman J Cock, who was Mayor when the statue was erected in 1906, and Alderman A R Adams, who was Mayor in 1919, when on the occasion of the centenary of Kingsley’s birth a permanent bronze wreath with inscription was attached.

The death took place at this residence, 19 Lower Meddon Street, of Capt Robert Fisher, who was formerly a familiar figure in Bideford and was captain of the Spirit. He had lived in retirement for several years and was 80 years of age. He leaves a widow and one son to mourn their loss.

We regret to hear that Mr and Mrs W Mathews, 9 Dorchester Terrace, Park Lane, Bideford, have received information of the death of their son, William George Matthews, as the result of an accident. He was 34 years of age, was in the employ of the Imperial Tobacco Company, at Leamington, Canade, and was killed while at work. Deceased was a widower, and was making his home with Mr and Mrs C A Henderson, Mrs Henderson being his deceased wife’s sister.

Ships have been sheltering in the bay. The SS Lerina, returning from Lundy with Revd Hugh Muller on board, had difficulty avoiding wreckage in the fairway (an area marked by a buoy just outside the Bar). The crew managed to attach a “reliable rope” to a large section of mast which was drifting in the channel and tow it over the Bar to Appledore.

At Gammaton, Christmas came a little late. The Wesleyan Entertainment and Prize Giving was held on 7 January and featured Mr Bacon as Father Christmas.

And finally:

A story to watch in the coming weeks – Bideford Harbour Bill to go to Parliament.

A Happy New Year to all our readers from all of us at the Bideford and District Community Archive.

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Bideford Music Club concert diary.

Posted on 29/12/2024 by Tango Alpha

See also www.bidefordmusicclub.org.uk website.

All concerts held in St Mary’s Church, Bideford. Subscription for 6 concerts is £82.50. Subscription for 4 concerts is £61.00 Single ticket at door is £16.50. Payment by cash, cheque or BACS. Students, children and accompanying carers tickets are free.

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Concert Diary.

Wednesday 2nd April 7.30pm Ewan Millar (TilletTrust Artist) & Tomos Boyles, Oboe and Piano Ewan Millar Tomos Boyles

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One Hundred Years Ago – December 1924.

Posted on 04/12/2024 by Tango Alpha

A collection of articles from the ‘Bideford Gazette’ over December 1924, kindly selected by Bideford Community Archive.

A notable feature of the Christmas was the overwhelming and unprecedented rush on the Bideford Post Office. All previous records were broken by the vast amount of inward and outward mails that were experienced at the office during the days preceding Christmas Day. Temporary postmen were employed, and these with the regular staff had difficulty in coping with the work.

Buy your Christmas presents from S. Metherell’s at 3 Market Place, Bideford. Or a Jones’ Family C.S. Hand Machine as supplied to H.M. The Queen.

A new debating society is formed – Bideford and District Debating Society for the Discussion of Current Events.

Mr George Cook’s retirement, after 48 years of continuous scholastic life was marked in a very pleasing manner with a presentation in Bideford Old Town Boys’ School, at which, as the ‘Bell’ School, as it was known, Mr Cook attended as a scholar, and in which as a Master he closed his long and honourable teaching career. The presentation took the form of a cheque which will be devoted to the installation of a wireless receiving set.

Torridge View, 4 Buttgarden Street, Bideford, is for sale.

Prizes in connection with the Poor Stock Charity, comprising cheques of the value of £2 downwards, were distributed at Bideford Elementary Schools, boys and girls, by the Mayor, Dr E J Toye.

Mr E T Frayne and Miss S P Braddick are married in Bideford Parish Church.

Justices Shearman and Salter, sitting as a King’s Bench Divisional Court, dismissed the appeal against the decision of the County Court judge (His Honour Judge Lindley) in the action brought by Mr Cloke, motor lorry driver, in respect injuries sustained through his lorry going over in the river on February 4th. Mr Cloke brought his action against the Bideford Bridge trustees and the contractors, Mr Westacott, who were repairing the bridge at the time of the accident. The County Court judge gave judgement against the trustees and by agreement made an order for the indemnity against the contractor.

At Bideford Hospital the Coroner, Mr G W F Brown, held an inquest on the four year old son of Mr Alfred Grant, a carpenter of Geneva Place, who died as a result of an accident in Abbotsham Road. The Coroner returned a verdict of ‘accidental death’ and the driver, Mr Pascoe, a driver for Mr Glover, was exonerated of all blame.

We regret to announce the death of the late Miss Maud Reynolds, daughter of the late Mr William Reynolds, of Wellington, Somerset, and the late Mrs Emma Reynolds, of Kingsdown, Bideford. The deceased lady had taken a very active part in the church life of Bideford for 40 years and …

The funeral of the late Mr W Dennis took place at the Public Cemetery, Bideford, the Rev J Morris officiating. The funeral of the late Mr W H Hookway, of 4 Queen Street, which took place at the Church Cemetery, East-the-Water, was attended, in addition the family mourners by a large number of deceased’s friends, while the Foresters were well represented. A large number of friends heard with great regret of the death of Mr Frederick Thomas Kivell, Riversdale, Torridge Place, East-the-Water, Bideford, after a lengthy illness, patiently and bravely borne. The eldest son of Mr Bob and Mrs Bella Kivell, the deceased was 42 years of age and was an old member of the Bideford Church Lads’ Brigade, and was for many years a member of the band of the Bideford Company of the old Volunteers. A keen and clever musician, his services were in great demand. He served during the war, but the state of his health since has been very precarious. Mr Kivell was held in high respect and the utmost sympathy is felt with his widow and relatives. The death took place of Mr Frank Trapnell, at the age of 79, who was for many years in business in High Street, Bideford, as a tailor and outfitter. For a short period he was a member of the Town Council, acted for a considerable time as sidesman at the Parish Church, and use to be well-known in North Devon hunting circles. Of a genial disposition, he was popular with his townsmen. He leaves a widow, son, and daughter, with whom sincere sympathy is felt. The death took place at 29 Honestone Street, Bideford at the advanced age of 83, of Mr William Garnsey. Deceased was by trade a leather-dresser. For about thirty years he was a member of the Old Volunteers, and he took a great interest in the Ancient Order of Foresters.

An atmosphere of light-heartedness pervaded the Bideford Hospital during the Christmas, laughter came from the wards, and the tasteful Yuletide decorations carried out by the Matron, Miss Jennie Jones, assisted by Nurses Williams and Morgan, made a joyous appeal for the several visitors. Friends were extremely kind with gifts, providing a pleasant time for all.

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