Bideford Buzz

Posted on 06/07/2010 by Tango Alpha

Welcome to the  on-line edition of the Community Newsletter for Bideford   and adjoining towns, villages, and rural area.

‘Bideford Buzz’ is produced  by a team of volunteers and relies on our local community for articles.   If you are interested in supporting this newsletter we’ll be glad to hear from you.

You can submit your article on disc or by e-mail.    However, ‘snail mail’ is equally acceptable. Material for publication should reach us during the month preceding the month of publication.

Editor – Rose Arno (Bideford Buzz).        

Telephone 07929-976120, or E-mail: [email protected]

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Bideford Town Band seeks players.

Posted on 15/01/2025 by Tango Alpha

www.bidefordtownband.co.uk

Do you, or have you ever, played the cornet? Or any other brass instrument?

If so, we need YOU! If you want to reprise your skills and at the same time have a lot of fun then give us a shout…we’d love to welcome you!

We also have a training band if you want to get your lip back in, or even start from scratch! Why not, hey?

Rehearsals 7:45-9:30 pm Mon and Thurs; training band 6:30-7:30 Monday.

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Flourishing Culture awards – nominations sought.

Posted on 11/01/2025 by Tango Alpha

The team behind northern Devon’s Flourishing Culture initiative is inviting the community to nominate individuals, groups, or organisations who have influenced them through their cultural contributions. Whether through art, music, performance, literature, heritage, sport or any other form of cultural expression, the awards will embrace all aspects of community culture.

The Flourishing Culture strategy was adopted and launched by North Devon and Torridge District Councils in October 2022. It aims to improve people’s access to arts, support local economic growth through culture and safeguard vital local collections for future generations The strategy sets out the value that culture brings to northern Devon, the aspiration for what it could be, and some suggested actions for raising the ambition, sustainability and impact of culture in all its forms across the region.

The Flourishing Culture Awards will celebrate people, groups, and organisations who have made a significant impact on the cultural life of our communities in North Devon and Torridge. Culture means many things to many people, and these awards will recognise the diverse and vibrant ways in which cultural activities enrich our lives.

Cultural Partnership Board representative for North Devon Council, Councillor Mark Haworth-Booth said: “This is your chance to recognise and show appreciation for the cultural trailblazers in your area, the ones who have inspired, connected, and enriched the lives of others. Let’s celebrate the people and organisations that make our cultural landscape thrive! You can make multiple nominations in any category and nominate yourself or your organisation. You just need to complete an online form to make your voice heard”.

Cultural Partnership Board representative for Torridge District Council, Councillor Cottle-Hunkin said: “This is an amazing opportunity to shine a light and celebrate those individuals and groups who make such a great contribution to the wealth of community culture that we enjoy across Torridge and North Devon.  We are so lucky to have a vibrant and ever-evolving cultural scene, from quaint galleries showcasing the works of local talents, to lively cultural festivals that bring our communities together. We hope that these awards will not only celebrate those who already make a valuable contribution, but also inspire others to get involved in the future too! Time to get nominating!”

Anyone who lives or works in North Devon and Torridge, whether they are from towns, villages or remote hamlets, can make a nomination. It’s not about choosing the most successful, but about highlighting those who have made a positive impact on residents and their community through cultural activity.

The categories to be voted on are:

Arts in Education.

Crafts.

Digital, Film and Moving Image.

Diversity & Inclusion.

Heritage.

Innovation.

Literature.

Performing Arts.

Rural Community Engagement.

Sport.

Visual Arts.

Special Award.

Shortlisted nominees will be invited to an awards event in Barnstaple in March, where the winners for each category will be announced and presented with their award.

Enquiries and questions can be directed to [email protected] (North Devon Council residents) or [email protected] (Torridge District Council residents). Online nominations should be made through North Devon Council’s website (click ‘continue without an account‘ to make a nomination without signing up).

Nominations are open until Monday 3 February.

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Rangers need volunteers to help plant community woodland.

Posted on 11/01/2025 by Tango Alpha

Torridge District Council has teamed up with Devon County Council and Parklife South West CIC to create a new Community Woodland at Gatefield amenity grassland on Londonderry Estate in Bideford. As part of this exciting project the ranger team at Torridge District Council is looking for volunteers to help plant 1,000 trees on the site at events on Saturday 18th and Wednesday 22nd of January, between 10am and 3pm.

The Community Woodland is being funded through the Forestry Commission’s Local Authority Treescapes project. It will help to extend local wildlife corridors and boost efforts to deliver nature recovery and tackle the climate crisis. Following public consultation, a large area of open space has been incorporated into the final design, so that dog walking and other recreational activities can take place here too. It is hoped that the project will create a better space for wildlife and people. Tree species being planted include oak, beech, field maple, wild cherry, hawthorn, hazel, dogwood, dogrose and spindle.

The events are open to everyone, but any children must be accompanied by an adult. No prior experience is necessary, and tools will be provided.

To find out further information and book your place, please contact the ranger team on 01237479708 or [email protected]

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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.

Tuesday, February 11th.

An indoor meeting at The Castle Centre, Barnstaple at 7.30pm. An

illustrated talk by Robert Irving on the “Success of the UK’s first

marine protection area off Lundy”. Friends, neighbours and relations

all welcome. Book stall and raffle. Admission £4 includes tea/coffee

and biscuits.

 

Sunday, March 16th.

A level circular walk around the recently created Otter Estuary

nature reserve at Budleigh Salterton. Meet at the CP* at 9.30am or if

going direct in the South Farm Road car park (Map Ref SY 070 830

)(post code EX9 7AZ) at 11.00 am for hopefully some interesting birds.

Packed lunch, warm drink and warm clothes.

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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Bideford Blues celebrate new kit.

Posted on 09/01/2025 by Tango Alpha

BIDEFORD BLUES CELEBRATE AS ROYAL MAIL FUNDS NEW KIT.

Budding footballers from Bideford Blues JFC have unveiled their brand-new kit, funded by Royal Mail’s ‘Kits 4 Kids’ programme.

They were nominated by Darren Pilkington, a postie and Bideford Blues volunteer whose son plays for the team.

The team was chosen from 1,500 nominations from across the UK.

Budding footballers from Bideford Blues JFC are celebrating being awarded a grant for brand-new kits as part of Royal Mail’s Kits 4 Kids programme. The team received the funding as part of the company’s drive to support employees’ local grassroots teams and help young people get active.

The team was nominated for funding by Darren Pilkington, a postie in Bideford and a Bideford Blues volunteer whose son plays for the team. Royal Mail’s logo now features on the front of the team’s training jackets.

Royal Mail’s Kits 4 Kids was launched in response to many requests from colleagues across the country who want to help their local youth sports teams by funding new kit. Royal Mail and Parcelforce employees were encouraged to nominate their local grassroots youth sports teams to receive grant funding. 1,500 nominations were received, with successful clubs chosen randomly by region.

Since 1999, Bideford Blues & Appledore JFC has been giving footballing opportunities to the local youth. From coaching them on the ins-and-outs of the sport to honing their athletic skills, the club is proud to teach not only the love of the game, but to also impart the ideals of good sportsmanship, teamwork and loyalty. Bideford Blues JFC has not lost or drawn a game in two years, and ten of its members also play in the Junior Premier League.

Greg Sage, Royal Mail’s Deputy Director for Corporate Affairs and ESG, said: “Our 130,000 people are at the heart of their communities across the UK, and Royal Mail’s Kits 4 Kids gives colleagues the opportunity to show their support and help young people get active in their local area. Unwavering pride and passion, forging through all weathers, out in the community – grassroots sport has a lot in common with Royal Mail. This exciting new initiative brings the two together and we are delighted to be able to support Bideford Blues JFC”.

Darren Pilkington, postie and Bideford Blues JFC volunteer, said: “The team and I were very grateful to Royal Mail for funding this awesome kit, which the kids look great in and will help through the winter months”.

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Annual Winter Sculpture Exhibition at RHS Rosemoor.

Posted on 06/01/2025 by Tango Alpha

Discover over 200 sculptures, ranging from fluid installations to thought-provoking, large-scale pieces, as you explore the famous gardens at RHS Rosemoor, near Great Torrington.


Until 31 January you can admire the work of 40 sculptors from across the UK, including local artists from the West Country such as Steve Parsons, whose ‘Big Cat’ is pictured above.

Steve’s career started in photography, moving to a successful career in jewellery design until now, living in North Devon, he is transferring his design skills to the world of sculpture. “Sculpture is excitingly tactile, allowing me to push design boundaries in new and innovative ways. I love sculptures’ ability to create a space for expression and dialogue – both for the artist and the viewer” says Steve.

Another participating artist, self-taught Heather Sweet-moon, has worked in the art business for over 25 years making sculptures for weddings, TV celebrities and UK businesses. Her sculptures have been exhibited in Guildford House, Bowes Museum, Worcester and Birmingham art galleries – she was even commissioned by Vogue to create pieces for their magazine cover. Heather exhibited her first garden sculptures at Showborough House gardens in 2022, 2023 and 2024, followed by Cotswolds Sculpture Park exhibition in 2023. Her quirky ceramics are heavily influenced by nature and feature hand-built figures and animals – see image ‘Hunted’.

Other artists exhibiting are Barney Yendall, Bea Green, Bev Knowlden, Brendon Murless, Brian Steele, Bruce Kirby, Carrieann Moore, Christine Baxter, Ed Hill, George Hider, Gill Holland, Glen Farrelly, Hamish Holman, Hayley Jones, Henrietta Bud, Jennie Scott, John Hadfield, Karen Arthurs, Lorraine Smith, Lucy d’Auvernge, Luke Tupper, Lynn Baxter, Mark Evans, Mike Thompson, Neil Lossock, Owen Meredith, Paul Burton, Paul Harvey, Paul Mules, Pete Carling, Peter Rogers, Rachel Slade, Royston Dyer, Ruth Hawe, Simon Connett, Simon Connolly, Stacey Beaumont, Susan Purser Hope, Will Budgett and Zoe Clare.

Works from this annual exhibition can be viewed against a backdrop of architectural winter garden textures (as well as in the cosy restaurant) until 31 January.

Bring the whole family on 25-26 January and you can also enjoy Living Sculpture performances by five entertaining characters in unexpected places from 11am to 3pm.

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Bideford Phoenix Morris in 2025.

Posted on 06/01/2025 by Tango Alpha

Bideford Phoenix Morris invite YOU to join us this year. To learn a dance or two, keep fit and have fun and join us dancing in and around North Devon in the Summer for a local Charity.

Every Wednesday night from the 8th January from 7pm to 9pm at Bideford’s Baptist Church Hall. Come along and join in the fun.

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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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Winter volunteering on Northam Burrows.

Posted on 04/01/2025 by Tango Alpha

[email protected]

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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.

* * * *

Concert Diary.

Sunday 2nd February 3.00pm Ensemble Mirage Clarinet & String Trio Ensemble Mirage

Wednesday 12th March 7.30pm Gerard Flotats (Phillip and Dorothy Green Young Artist) & Julian Chan Cello & Piano Gerard Flotats Julian Chan

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

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Bideford Film Society – January events.

Posted on 29/12/2024 by Tango Alpha

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

All showing at The Theatre, Kingsley School.

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The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim (12A). (134 mins).

Friday 17th January 7.30pm (Doors open 7.00pm).

Saturday 18th January 5.00pm (Doors open 4.30 pm).

Starring – (Voices of) Brian Cox, Gaia Wise & Miranda Otto. Directed by Kenji Kamiyama.

A sudden attack by Wulf, a clever and ruthless Dunlending lord seeking vengeance for the death of his father, forces Helm Hammerhead, the king of Rohan, and his people to make a daring last stand in the ancient stronghold of the Hornburg.

* * * * *

Better Man (15) (134 mins).

Friday 24th & Saturday 25th January 7.30pm (Doors open 7.00pm).

Starring – Robbie Williams, Jonno Davies & Steve Pemberton. Directed by Michael Gracey.

A semi-biographical film about singular British pop superstar Robbie Wiliams. Described as a satirical musical covering three decades of Robbie Williams’ stardom, from his first success in the popular music combo Take That, through the ups and down of his career.

* * * * *

Mufasa: The Lion King (PG) (120 mins).

Saturday 25th January 4.45pm (Doors open 4.15pm).

Sunday 26th January 6.00pm (Doors open 5.30pm).

Starring – (voices of) Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr, Tiffany Boone. Directed by Barry Jenkins.

Mufasa, a cub lost and alone, meets a sympathetic lion named Taka, the heir to a royal bloodline. The chance meeting sets in motion an expansive journey of a group of misfits searching for their destiny.

* * * * *

We Live in Time (15) (108 mins).

Friday 31 January & Saturday 1st February 7.30pm (Doors open7.00pm).

Starring – Andrew Garfield, Florence Pugh & Grace Delaney. Directed by John Crowley.

An up-and-coming chef and a recent divorcee find their lives forever changed when a chance encounter brings them together, in a decade-spanning, deeply moving romance

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The winners of TDC’s refuse vehicle naming competition.

Posted on 14/12/2024 by Tango Alpha

Earlier this year Torridge District Council launched a competition to name two brand new street cleansing vehicles that have recently joined the Council fleet.

Over one hundred entries were received with many unique and comic name suggestions. The winning names for the vehicles have been chosen by the crews, supervisors, and managers of the Council’s waste and recycling service and have been turned into stylised graphic designs and printed onto templates, which have been applied to the vehicles for everyone to see.

The winning vehicle names were Binderella, suggested by Carly and Freddie Tucker, and Lightning McClean suggested by Mr Lavers.

The supervisors and crews had a great time looking through the name suggestions. The vehicles are now all in service and stationed in Holsworthy, to support the Cleansing Team with various tasks, such as cleaning toilets, emptying litter and dog bins, and clearing any illegally dumped waste.

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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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Shipping notes no. 236 (November).

Posted on 01/12/2024 by Tango Alpha

Bideford Quay.

Oldenburg left Bideford for Sharpness drydocking (via Lundy) 7th.

Appledore.

Atherstone still alongside the quay, Quorn still in shed. No commercial shipping this month.

Yelland Quay.

No shipping this month.

Bristol Channel observations.

1/11 at 07.52 cargo vessel Eems Dart, 3,725 tons d.w., owners Eems Dart B.V .Netherlands, inward bound for Newport.

2/11 at 12.15 vehicle carrier Centaurus Leader, 21,471 tons d.w., owners Nippon Yusen Kaisha Japan, inward bound for Portbury. (Seen again at 09.58 3rd outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 05.14). At 13.15 vehicle carrier Auto Aspire, 12,000 tons d.w., owners UECC Uniperssoal Madeira, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 09.42.

3/11 at 11.05 cargo vessel Celtic Ambassador, 5,699 tons d.w., owners Charles W Willie Cardiff, inward bound for Cardiff. At 11.25 cargo vessel Saareman, inward bound for Avonmouth,

5/11 at 06.40 vehicle carrier Vega Leader, 16,396 tons d.w., owners Latte Maritima S.A Japan, inward bound for Portbury. At 10.45 container vessel Valdivia, 22,229 tons d.w., owners Dohle Schiffahts Germany, inward bound for Portbury. At 10.50 cargo vessel Eems Fivel, owners Eems Fivel B.V Netherlands, inward bound for Newport.

7/11 at 11.50 vehicle carrier RCC Honor, owners Ray Car Israel, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 07.46. At 13.40 ro-ro vessel Ville de Bordeaux, owners French, inward bound for Portbury. At 17.26 vehicle carrier Odin Highway, owners Japanese, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 12.06.

9/11 at 09.35 vehicle carrier Grande Italia, 12,549 tons d.w., owners Grimaldi Line of Italy, inward bound for Portbury. At 17.27 hrs ro-ro vessel Eurocargo Livorno, 10,780 tons d.w., owners Grimaldi Line of Italy, inward bound for Avonmouth.

10/11 at 09.07 vehicle carrier Neptune Aegli, 6,580 tons d.w., owners Aegli Shipping Greece, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 03.35. At 16.35 cargo vessel Spanaco Loyalty, owners German. inward bound for Newport. At 18.00 vehicle carrier Auto Advance, 12,457 tons d.w., owners UECC Uniperssoal Madeira, inward bound for Portbury.

11/11 at 16.06 vehicle carrier Autosun, 6,670 tons d.w., owner UECC Uniperssoal Madeira, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 11.31. At 16.37 cargo vessel Anana, owners Netherlands, inward bound for Cardiff.

12/11 at 05.08 vehicle carrier Emerald, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 00.35. At 13.00 cargo vessel Prima Lady, inward bound for Newport.

13/11 at 07.52 tanker Aland, inward bound for Cardiff.

14/11 at 13.50 container ship Elbteam, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 08.14.

15/11 at 13.14 vehicle carrier Auto Achieve,12,456 tons d.w., owners UECC Unipersssoal Madeira, inward bound for Portbury. At 13.35 cargo vessel Patron, inward bound for Sharpness.

16/11 at 05.45 tug En Avant 9, 134 gross tons, owners Muller of Dordrecht Netherlands, inward bound for Avonmouth. At 09.46 cargo vessel Aeroe, outward bound from Swansea having sailed at 06.27. At 09.55 cargo vessel Frisian River, 2,620 tons d.w., owners Boomsma Shipping Netherlands, inward bound for Avonmouth.

18/11 at 11.06 vehicle carrier Goliath Leader, 20,955 tons d.w., owners Ray Car Carriers Israel, inward bound for Portbury. (Seen again at 11.10 19th outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 06.17). At 05.45 cargo vessel Eems Runner, owners Eems Runner B.V., inward bound for Newport.

19/11 at 09.17 bulk carrier Aasli, owners Aasne Bulk Norway, inward bound for Avonmouth. At 11.06 vehicle carrier Grande Detroit, 12,420 tons d.w., owners Grimaldi Line of Italy, inward bound for Portbury.

20/11 at 08.07 chemical tanker Stolt Jaeger, owners Netherlands, inward bound for Barry. At 14.19 cargo vessel Arklow Cape, owners Arklow Shipping Eire, outward bound from Swansea having sailed at 11.14. At 15.51 cargo vessel Arklow Venus, owners Avoca Shipping B.V. Netherlands, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 10.40. At 15.56 vehicle carrier Auto Advance, 12,457 tons d.w., owners UECC Uniperssoal Madeira, inward bound for Portbury.

22/11 at 05.45 cargo vessel Miramar, 5,233 tons d.w., owners atobatc Holding Sweden Leasing, inward bound for Swansea. (Seen again at 16.14 26th outward bound from Swansea having sailed at 12.48).

24/11 at 11.47 cargo vessel Cornion, 4,933 tons d.w., owners Lico Leasing Spain, outward bound from Belfast (had been sheltering from Storm Bert).

25/11 at 17.03 cargo vessel Arklow Villa, 4,925 tons d.w., owners.Avoca Shipping B.V Netherlands, outward bound from Avonmouth having sailed at 21.45 22nd. At 19.07 vehicle carrier Neptune Aegli, 6,580 tons d.w., owners Aegli Shipping Greece, inward bound for Portbury. At 19.20 bulk carrier Propel Mission, 33,636 tons d.w., outward bound from Newport having sailed at 12.45. At 19.44 vehicle carrier Neptune Dynamis, 6,850 tons d.w., owners Dynamis Shipping Greece, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 22.01 22nd.

27/11 at 06.02 cargo vessel Wilson Durness, owners Wilson Shipowning Norway, inward bound for Cardiff. At 07.53 vehicle carrier Autosun, 6,670 tons d.w., owners UECC Uniperssoal Madeira, inward bound for Portbury. At 07.53 vehicle carrier Auto Advance, 12,457 tons d.w., owners UECC uniperssoal Madeira, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 03.50. At 08.01 vehicle carrier Laio He Kou, owners Cosco Shipping China, inward bound for Portbury.

28/11 at 06.12 vehicle carrier Toronto, 19,628 tons d.w., owners Wallenius Wilhelmsen Stockholm and Oslo, inward bound for Portbury. At 06.53 vehicle carrier Coral Leader, 12,164 tons d.w., owners Nippon Yusen Kaisha Japan, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 01.46. At 16.44 cargo vessel Artica Hav, 2,324 tons d.w., owners Hav Bulk Norway, inward bound for Newport.

30/11 at 08.20 vehicle carrier Mediterranean Highway, 17,228 tons d.w., owners Kawaski Kisen K.K. Japan, inward bound for Portbury. At 14.23 cargo vessel Lady Habarka, 4,200 tons d.w., owners Wijnne & Barends Cargodoors-en-Agentuurkantoren BV Netherlands, inward bound for Newport

Regards,

Norman.

Photograph from my collection – Irish vessel LE Samuel Beckett.

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