Bideford Buzz

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.

Editor – Rose Arno (Bideford Buzz).        

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

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Bideford Film Society events, September.

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

All showing at The Theatre, Kingsley School.

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The Materialists (15) 116 mins.

Friday 5th & Saturday 6th September 7.30pm (doors open 7.00pm).

A young, ambitious New York City matchmaker finds herself torn between the perfect match and her imperfect ex.

Stars: Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, Pedro Pascal.

Director: Celine Song.

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The Naked Gun (15) 85 mins.

Sunday 14  6.00pm (doors open 5.30pm).

Only one man has the particular set of skills to lead Police Squad and save the world.

Stars: Liam Neeson, Pamela Anderson, Paul Walter Hauser

Director: Akiva Schaffer.

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Freakier Friday (PG) 110 mins.

Friday 19th & Saturday 20th September 7.30pm (doors open 7.00pm)

22 years after Tess and Anna endured an identity crisis, Anna now has a daughter and a soon-to-be stepdaughter. As they navigate the challenges that come when two families merge, Tess and Anna discover that lightning might strike twice.

Stars: Jamie Lee Curtis, Lindsay Lohan, Julia Butters

Director: Nisha Ganatra.

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Hamilton (ctba) 180 mins.

Friday 26th September 7.30pm (doors open 7.00pm).

Saturday 27th September 7.30pm (doors open 7.00pm).

Sunday 28th September 6.00pm (doors open 5.30pm)

Captured live on Broadway from the Richard Rodgers Theatre, the musical depicting the real life of one of America’s foremost founding fathers and first Secretary of the Treasury, Alexander Hamilton. Recorded with the original Broadway cast, including a 10-minute interview with key members.

Stars: Lin-Manuel Miranda, Phillipa Soo, Leslie Odom Jr.

Director: Thomas Kail.

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On Hundred Years ago; September 1925.

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

www.bidefordarchive.org.uk

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Considerable indignation was expressed, both by residents and the general body of visitors alike, when it was found that during the night vandal hands had disgracefully disfigured the very fine and greatly admired marble statue of Kingsley, erected by public subscription at the end of the Quay Parade and near the entrance to Victoria Park, Bideford.

There’s a wireless demonstration at the Kingsley Statue, Bideford.

The funeral of Mr Frederick Richard Bettiss, whose death occurred at 7 Grenville Terrace, Bideford, took place at the Church Cemetery, East-the-Water. The Rev C B Crofts officiated. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Messrs A R Adams and Son.

A campaign to raise a special fund for the provision of a Children’s Ward at the new Bideford and District Hospital was successfully inaugurated at a largely attended and representative public meeting, called and presided over by the Mayor, Dr E J Toye and held in Bideford Town Hall. The meeting was a gratifying reflex of the public interest in the project, and augurs well for the successful issue of the effort. Before the close of the meeting the Mayor announced that about £100

By the death at Bideford of Miss Louisa (Nurse) Arnold, there passed away one who for 21 years gave devoted service to the Bideford and District Hospital in its earlier days. When in Dr King’s time a small infirmary was added to the Dispensary, Miss Arnold had in her charge four or five beds at the Institution. In the 1887 Jubilee, when a removal was made to Meddon-street, Miss Arnold went there in charge of 22 beds, and held the post of Matron until her resignation in 1905, when she was succeeded by Miss White. Miss Arnold continued private nursing in the town for many years, and by her cheerful kindness endeared herself to many hundreds of Bidefordians.

Bideford Harbour Act – cost increased by opposition.

The Misses Smith are to be congratulated on their enterprise in transferring their business of tea rooms and café to the Quay. Their new shop front would do credit to any town, and instead of detracting, is an assist to the quay-front, and then finished with the specially designed swing sign with the little red house above which will continue on the name of “The Red House Café” it will be one of the most interesting fronts in North Devon. It is understood that shortly they propose keeping open in the summer months to late in the evening for the sale of ices, fruit and cream, coffee, etc. which is a much needed want for residents and visitors in the town. The architects for the alterations were Messrs Orphoot Whiting & Bryce of Bideford.

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One Hundred Years ago – August 1925.

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

www.bidefordarchive.org.uk

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Considerable indignation was expressed, both by residents and the general body of visitors alike, when it was found that during the night vandal hands had disgracefully disfigured the very fine and greatly admired marble statue of Kingsley, erected by public subscription at the end of the Quay Parade and near the entrance to Victoria Park, Bideford.

There’s a wireless demonstration at the Kingsley Statue, Bideford.

The funeral of Mr Frederick Richard Bettiss, whose death occurred at 7 Grenville Terrace, Bideford, took place at the Church Cemetery, East-the-Water. The Rev C B Crofts officiated. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Messrs A R Adams and Son.

A campaign to raise a special fund for the provision of a Children’s Ward at the new Bideford and District Hospital was successfully inaugurated at a largely attended and representative public meeting, called and presided over by the Mayor, Dr E J Toye and held in Bideford Town Hall. The meeting was a gratifying reflex of the public interest in the project, and augurs well for the successful issue of the effort. Before the close of the meeting the Mayor announced that about £100

By the death at Bideford of Miss Louisa (Nurse) Arnold, there passed away one who for 21 years gave devoted service to the Bideford and District Hospital in its earlier days. When in Dr King’s time a small infirmary was added to the Dispensary, Miss Arnold had in her charge four or five beds at the Institution. In the 1887 Jubilee, when a removal was made to Meddon-street, Miss Arnold went there in charge of 22 beds, and held the post of Matron until her resignation in 1905, when she was succeeded by Miss White. Miss Arnold continued private nursing in the town for many years, and by her cheerful kindness endeared herself to many hundreds of Bidefordians.

Bideford Harbour Act – cost increased by opposition.

The Misses Smith are to be congratulated on their enterprise in transferring their business of tea rooms and café to the Quay. Their new shop front would do credit to any town, and instead of detracting, is an assist to the quay-front, and then finished with the specially designed swing sign with the little red house above which will continue on the name of “The Red House Café” it will be one of the most interesting fronts in North Devon. It is understood that shortly they propose keeping open in the summer months to late in the evening for the sale of ices, fruit and cream, coffee, etc. which is a much needed want for residents and visitors in the town. The architects for the alterations were Messrs Orphoot Whiting & Bryce of Bideford.

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Burton Art Gallery exhibition, until 14th September..

Into Abstraction: Modern British Art and the Landscape | 19 July – 14 September 2025 | Free entry.

Our major summer exhibition examines the intersection of abstraction and landscape in British art from the 1920s to the early 1970s.

Organised in collaboration with The Hepworth Wakefield, ‘Into Abstraction’ draws on their extensive holdings of modern art while also spotlighting key works from The Burton’s collection. It explores how artists embraced abstraction during periods of social upheaval to engage with the natural world and human experience.

The exhibition includes works by Henry Moore, Patrick Heron, Barbara Hepworth, Allin Braund, Gillian Ayres and L.S. Lowry.

(In collaboration with The Hepworth Wakefield and with the support of The Golsoncott Foundation and Little Greene).

Image credit: Allin Braund Atlantic Sea c1950. Colour lithograph © the artist’s estate.

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Seventh round of Household Support Fund launched.

Torridge District Council has launched the seventh round of Household Support Funding with effect from 7 July 2025. Nationally £742m has been made available by Central Government to cover the period April 2025 to March 2026.

Devon County Council has been awarded funding of just under £9m by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) for a seventh Household Support Fund, part of which it will utilise to support voluntary and community partners such as Citizens Advice Devon and the Devon Community Foundation and provide Free School Meal holiday vouchers.

Just £3 million will be split amongst the eight district council’s for targeted support to those identified in need, with Torridge receiving just over £269,919 to allocate across the district, over nine months. The previous six schemes have already released payments totalling £1,248k to meet basic household costs of struggling Torridge residents.

In line with previous versions of the scheme the purpose of the grant is to provide support to households experiencing hardship due to the ongoing cost of living crisis. The grants will be available to help people in need to buy food, pay essential utility bills or meet other essential living or housing costs. Previous assistance has already allowed people to purchase clothing, blankets, and fund boiler servicing or repairs during the winter months. Applications can also be made to meet the cost of purchasing or repairing white goods such as fridges, freezers and ovens, which might otherwise currently be beyond the means of struggling households.

Access to the fund will once again be via a form, with initial applications being processed by the council’s partner and local charity organisation, Encompass. The application form link will be available on Torridge District Council’s website by clicking on the “Cost of living Help” icon on the main landing page and then the “Household Support Fund” link. Alternatively, people can contact Encompass through their website or by telephone if they do not have access to the internet on 01271 371499.

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One Hundred Years ago – July 1925.

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

www.bidefordarchive.org.uk

* * * * * *

Shopkeepers in the Gazette area are being warned to be on the alert as counterfeit £5 are in circulation in the region. R Dymond and Son are selling by auction a donkey, complete with jingle and harness.

There is relief that Royal Assent has finally been given to the Bideford Harbour Act.

Mr A G Bromley, of Bromley’s Cafes, Ltd, Barnstaple and Bideford, has been elected on the Council of the National Association of Master Bakers, Confectioners, and Caterers.

The many services which Mr F A Searle has rendered to the town and district during his 38 years’ residence in Bideford, his unfailing courtesy, and the invaluable help, his sound advice, encouragement and assistance have been to many members of the local business and professional community, were testified to with much sincerity at the Town Hall. Mr Searle had been Borough Treasurer for about 32 years. He had lived in Bideford about 38 years and had been Manager of Fox, Fowler & Co’s Bank (now Lloyds) for about 32 years. He had also been Treasurer for the Northam Urban District Council and Bideford Union, and Bideford Grammar School.

Engineer Lieut. Commander H W Ascott, the only son of Major W Ascott, OBE, of Buttgarden Street, Bideford, has been gazetted Engineer-Commander.

The story of an attack on the manager of the local Labour Exchange, by an out-of-work labourer, in a principal thoroughfare of the town was told at Bideford Borough Sessions when Mr W T Braddick, Queen Anne’s, summoned a man with common assault. The man had issued a cross-summons. After a retirement, the Bench found the first case was proved and the maximum penalty of £5 was imposed with a month allowed for payment.

At Bideford Borough Sessions before the Mayor and other magistrates, Messrs Bartlett, Bayliss and Co. Ltd, Bideford, timber merchants, were summoned by HM Inspector of Factories for a breach of the Factory and Workshops Regulations, 1922, in failing to fix a cylindrical cutter block to a planing machine. Mr T Oerton, junr, appeared for the defendants.

A collision took place on the blind bend at Westcombe Corner in Bideford, involving three vehicles. A 14 seater charabanc driven by John Henry Fry overtook Mr E Hocking’s car on the bend. The charabanc then found itself faced by a 20 seater charabanc owned by Hardy-Colwill and coming from Westward Ho! The resulting confusion took some time to resolve. Mr Fry was found responsible and fined £6-5-0 including costs.

Miss Hilda Pearse, of Allhalland Street, has been successful in obtaining the degree of Bachelor of Science in the recent examination of the University of London. Miss Pearse was a student at University College, Reading, and was formerly a pupil at Edgehilll College.

Leonard Claude Guillaume, of Bideford, is saved.

Bideford and District Hospital in Meddon Street is for sale. Nos 25 and 26 Bridgeland Street, Bideford, for sale.

Bideford Head Post Office will be open a half hour later each weekday, telegrams being received until 7.30pm. In the course of a few days an automatic stamp vending slot machine will be placed outside the Head Office which will enable persons to purchase stamps when the office is closed.

A chimney fire took place at 9.30 at night at 16 Burridge Court, Meddon Street, Bideford. The house is owned by Mr W Wood and occupied by Mrs Catherine M Middleton, 74. Large clots of burning soot fell into her room which quickly filled with smoke, so that she had to be helped out. The fire brigade and police quickly attended and the damage is estimated at £20.

About 200 parents and friends were present at the annual sports of West Bank Girl’s School, held at the cricket field, Westward Ho! under ideal weather conditions. Interest was taken in the competition for the school challenge cups which were eventually won by B Routley (senior0 and J Nixon (junior), and also in the contest for the house shield, which was secured by Grenville House. The prizes were presented by the Mayoress of Bideford, Miss Keene, an old pupil of the school, who was thanked by the principal, Miss Abbott.

There is a long report of Bideford Horse Show in the paper of 21 July, with all the results given over three tightly packed columns of newsprint. For the first time the show was held on a Wednesday instead of on August Bank Holiday and the experiment seems to have been justified through a much higher level of attendance and entries.

And finally, a smart “information for visitors” board will shortly be erected near Bideford Bridge End giving brief particulars of attractions such as the Long Bridge, the Free Library, Chudleigh Fort and Victoria Park.

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Appledore Clean Maritime Innovation Centre progresses.

Torridge District Council has announced it has appointed BAM Construction to act as the main contractor for the delivery of the Appledore Clean Maritime Innovation Centre. The Centre has been partly funded through the Levelling Up Fund, Community Regeneration Partnership and funding from the UK Government as part of the Devon and Torbay Devolution Deal, managed by Devon County Council.

Torridge District Council has been working with BAM to progress and finalise the designs for the Centre, which will include workshops, offices and collaboration space together with parking facilities and improved access to the slipway. The Centre is expected to be completed in 2026.

Initial works will involve making improvements to the wall adjoining New Quay Street before works to construct the building commence in the Autumn. Early enabling works to deliver a new quay to provide improved access for users of the building to the estuary, commenced onsite in April. A kind spring has allowed the project to progress at pace.

BAM Construction is looking to use local contractors and businesses wherever possible. In October, a ‘‘Meet the Buyer’ event was held in Appledore. Since then, several local suppliers have joined the project’s supply chain and will contribute during the main construction phase. The team continues to engage with local businesses to ensure opportunities remain accessible throughout the build.

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“Coastwise” programme: September, October.

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North Devon Jazz Club events, September – November.

Events list for North Devon Jazz at Beaver, Appledore, to the end of November.

1 September – Byron Wallen with Craig Milverton Trio.

15 September – Sungrass.

29 September – Liane Carroll.

13 October – Tomasso Starace Trio.

3 November – Eddie Gripper Trio.

10 November – Howl Quartet.

24 November – Bruce Adams with Martin Dale Quartet.

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One Hundred Years Ago – June 1925.

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

www.bidefordarchive.org.uk

* * * * * *

Jim Hearn and Dora Hoblin are married at St Mary’s Church, Bideford. The marriage took place at Bideford Wesleyan Methodist Church of Mr Sidney Violet and Miss Olive Cole.

Providence House, Bideford, for sale, and Tresillian, at Raleigh.

In these days of increasing fuel costs, Bideford Gas and Coke Company Limited stress that they supply cheaper fuel.

Bideford Urban District Council’s meeting, generous recognition was made of the smart and effective services of the Bideford Fire Brigade at the alarming outbreak in High-street. In his official report the captain of the Brigade, Mr Morris, set on record that on May 25th he received an alarm of fire about 3.45pm by the Fire Alarm System. The maroon was also fired. The captain immediately proceeded to the Fire Station and ordered that the hose was to be taken to the fire which had occurred at the premises of Messrs Stephens Brain and Co. ironmongers, in High Street. Found that a furious fire was raging at the back of the premises, apparently having commenced with the oil stores. The hose was connected to the hydrants in High Street and New Street and carried through Messrs Stephens and Co’s passage and through Messrs Cox and Lee’s premises adjoining. Meanwhile the engine was manhandled down from the Fire Station. The danger was well over by 7pm but the Brigade remained on duty till 10pm and two men remained on duty all night. The total fire brigades’ and helpers expenses (including £18 5s for the Barnstaple engines and Brigade) amounted to £59 12s 4d.

The future of the Bideford War Trophy guns was decided after a heated debate in Committee. The Council in committee now reported in favour of the offer of the Officer Commanding the 6th Devon (TF) to park the guns in front of their Drill Hall on the Pill (almost opposite their former position at the Park Gates) being accepted, the Council to keep the guns in proper order and condition.

A Fete takes place at St Mary’s Church, Bideford.

At an inquest at Brightstone, Isle of Wight, on the body of a seafaring man who was washed ashore it was stated that his clothes bore as the name of the maker “George Boyle, tailor, Bideford” and in his pocket were spectacles stamped “George Way, optician, The Square, Barnstaple.”

At an inquest held by the Coroner, Mr G W F Brown, Mrs Mary Hamlyn of Higher Gunstone, Bideford, identified her brother, Arthur Ebsary, as the deceased man who was found at the top of Raleigh Hill by Miss Squires. The Coroner returned a verdict of Death from Natural Causes.

The Long Bridge, Bideford, is re-opened. Residents along the Quay front and Bridgeland Street are invited to display flags and decorate their premises for the occasion of the Bridge Opening.

With the severing of a silken ribbon barrier with a pair of presentation golden-handled scissors and the unveiling of a handsome bronze tablet bearing an inscription, Earl Fortescue, the Lord Lieutenant of Devon, re-opened the celebrated ‘Long’ Bridge of Bideford after its extensive reconstruction and widening, the preparatory work for which was commenced on the piers and cutwaters some thirteen years ago. The occasion, quite rightly, was made one of great public rejoicing; the town was gaily beflagged, and the ceremony witnessed by many thousands of visitors, including many figuring prominently in the public life of the county. A book titled “The story of the Long Bridge” is on sale, priced at 1 shilling “and as much more as you can afford”. Every penny will go to the Children’s Ward at the hospital. Photographs of the ceremonies are found in the paper of 9 June together with comprehensive lists of all 200 characters who were represented in the pageant.

Church Girls’ School, Bideford – As the result of the examination held on May 16th 1925, at the Barnstaple Grammar School, two free scholarships have been awarded to Irene Gladys Stephens and Marjorie Vera Bartingale.

Before the Mayor (Dr Toye), and Messrs J Cock, J U Fulford, G Boyle and J H Davis – Augustus Moore, coal heaver, of Strand Cottage, Bideford, was fined 3s for not having a name on the collar of his dog. For driving a motor lorry without a license, Owen Found, High Bullen, St Giles, was fined 3s.

Much sympathy is felt with Mr and Mrs S England, of Elm Grove, Bideford, in the loss of their daughter, Rose, who passed away at the age of 31 years after a long illness patiently borne. The funeral took place at the Public Cemetery and was largely attended. Rev J T Halstead officiated.

Go to Heard Brothers Ltd at Westcombe and Broad Quay, Bideford for a complete four seater car for £125.

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The Murder Mystery Company.

www.murderwewrote.co.uk

Have You Ever Thought About Murder?

Murder We Wrote is North Devon’s premier Murder Mystery Company, based right here in Bideford. MWW is part of Atlantic Coast Theatre, who were previously responsible for many large-scale popular musicals at the Queen’s Theatre Barnstaple, including; Avenue Q, Legally Blond, Grease, The Addams Family, Footloose and many more. However, following the pandemic, like many clubs and societies, we found ourselves having to move in a different direction. Many members no longer fancied the 8 week intensive rehearsal schedule required for such large-scale productions, nor did they want to learn all those lines, songs and dance routines. So, we decided to form a Murder Mystery Company where the majority of the dialogue is ad-lib, made up as we go and we normally only have a couple of rehearsals for each new storyline or script.

Four years down the line we are finding that the quality of our offering is far beyond other companies who offer a Murder Mystery experience. Normally they might only have four or five characters, one of which doubles as the Police Inspector and you never get to see the body. Whereas we field seven to over ten characters, we don’t double up roles and our Inspector only appears towards the end to help the audience solve the case – and yes, you always get to see the poor victim. We are so lucky to have a team of talented actors who not only bring our crazy characters to life but are also able to perform live singing and even the odd dance routine. Our events are fully interactive with the characters chatting to you at your tables, it’s not a sit down and watch type of stage theatre event. Having said that, you don’t have to get involved and if you pay attention all the clues are there for you to determine who the guilty party is. Our events normally run for about 2 1/2 hours and are based around a meal. How’s that for value for money?

So, where can you enjoy our next performance? We have two bookings coming up in August and October at The Cedars, Barnstaple and we’re looking forward to bringing some haunted fun to The Royal Hotel, Bideford on Halloween. You can check out how our events work and meet our acting team, as well as checking out a photo gallery and details of other forthcoming public events on our website www.murderwewrote.co.uk

Atlantic Coast Theatre is a registered charity, and all proceeds from our events go to purchasing authentic costumes, wigs, make-up, sound and lighting equipment. You can find out more information and how to book us or get in contact via our website.

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Shipping notes No. 241 (April).

Bideford Quay.

Oldenburg has resumed her regular crossing to Lundy from Bideford and Ifrcacombe.

Yelland Quay.

No shipping this month

Appledore.

Atherstone still alongside Quay, Quorn still in shed.

In port –

Fri Ocean – built 2008; flag Bahamas; arrived 1/4, sailed 2/4 ; discharged 1,861 tons rape meal.

Swe Bulk – built 1996; flag Cyprus; arrived 27/4, sailed 27/4 ; discharged 3,300 tons grain.

Bristol Channel Observations.

2/4 at 15.06 cargo vessel Lady Jasmin, outward bound from Cardiff having sailed at 10.06.

4/4 at 11.12 cargo vessel Pozini, 4,495 tons d.w., owners Namar Shipping Ltd Marshal Islands, inward bound for Cardiff.

5/4 at 12.25 tanker Claus, 7,402 tons d.w., owners Carl F Peters Hamburg, inward bound for Barry. At 19.37 tanker Thun Linkoping, 18,684 tons d.w., owners Thun Tankers Netherlands, outward bound from Avonmouth having sailed at 02.15.

6/4 at 11.36 vehicle carrier Vega Leader, 16,396 tons d.w., owners Nippon Yusen Kaisha Japan, inward bound for Portbury. At 17.53 vehicle carrier Turquoise Ace, 18,439 tons d.w., owners Fractal Marine Corp Japan, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 13.49.

7/4 at 06.56 vehicle carrier Thor Highway, 18,684 tons d.w., owners Kawaski Kisen Kaisha Japan, outward bound from Portbury.

9/4 – at 08.43 vehicle carrier Iguazu Highway, 21,052 tons d.w., owners La Darien Navegacion S.A. Japan, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 04.46. At 13.03 vehicle carrier Hoegh Trident, 21,423 tons d.w., owners Hoegh Autoliners Norway, inward bound for Portbury.

10./4 at 11.45 cargo vessel Wind Power, inward bound for Avonmouth. At 11.55 cargo vessel Celtic Pioneer, 5,698 tons d.w., owners Charles W Willie Cardiff, inward bound for Cardiff. At 20.18 vehicle carrier Neptune Dynamis, 6,850 tons d.w., owners Dynamis Shipping Ltd Greece, inward bound for Portbury.

11/4 at 08.40 vehicle carrier Mermaid Ace, 18,828 tons d.w., owners MOL Auto Carrier Express Japan, inward bound for Portbury. (Seen again at 10.22 12th outward bound from Portbury, having sailed at 05.07). At 09.16 cargo vessel Wilson Leith, owners Wilson Shipowning Ltd Norway, inward bound for Sharpness. At 14.20 cargo vessel Arklow Rally, 6,847 tons d.w., owners Arklow Shipping Eire, inward bound for Newport. At 16.27 cargo vessel Eems Servant, outward bound from Sharpness having sailed at 06.39.

13/4 at 09.44 container vessel Bernhard, inward bound for Portbury. At 13.57 tanker Cavalli, 3,888 tons d.w., owners Diarelli & Cavalli Tankers GMBH & Co Germany, bound for Barry.

14/4 at 16.14 vehicle carrier Auto Energy,16,788 tons d.w., owners UECC Unipersssoal Maderia, inward bound for Portbury.

16/4 at 15.35 cargo vessel Lady Carina, inward bound for Avonmouth. At 16.25 Kalli G, inward bound for Newport. At 16.40 cargo vessel Celtic Pioneer, 5,698 tons d.w., owners Charles W Willie Cardiff, outward bound from Cardiff having sailed at 05.20.

17/4 at 05.20 cargo vessel Arklow Venus, 5,158 tons d.w., outward bound from Avonmouth having sailed at 23.38 16th). At 05.35 cargo vessel Gulf Express, inward bound for Newport.

18/4 at 11.35 cargo vessel Pozoni, 4,495 tons d.w., owners Namar Shipping Ltd Marshal Islands, outward bound from Cardiff having sailed at 17.04 9th (previously anchored Blue Anchor Bay awaiting orders). At 13.55 vehicle carrier Oceanus Highway, 21,000 tons d.w., owners Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha Japan, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 09.46 – this vessel on maiden voyage.

19/4 at 12.15 cargo vessel Carolina, inward bound for Sharpness. At 13.29 cargo vessel Arklow Beach, 8,660 tons d.w., inward bound for Avonmouth. At 17.49 vehicle carrier Neptune Dynamis, 6,850 tons d.w., owners Dynamis Shipping Greece, inward bound for Portbury. (Seen again at 05.45 21st outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 00.08).

20/4 at 17.58 cargo vessel Rix Venture, 4,979 tons d.w.,inward bound for Sharpness.

21/4 at 13.15 vehicle carrier Neptune Aegli, 21,611 tons d.w., owners Aegli Shipping Greece, inward bound for Portbury. At 18.15 vehicle carrier Auto Aspire, 12,452 tons d.w., owners Uecc Uniperssoal Madeira, inward bound for Portbury. (Seen again at 10.16 23rd outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 05.48).

22/4 at 14.17 vehicle carrier Coral Leader, 12,164 tons d.w., owners Nippon Yusen Kaisha Japan, inward bound for Portbury. At 18.00 tanker Cavalli, 3,888 tons d.w., owners Diabelli & Cavalli Tankers GMBH & Co Germany, inward bound for Barry.

23/4 at 16.13 vehicle carrier Gan Kiang Kou, owners Cosco Shipping China, inward bound for Portbury. At 18.16 cargo vessel Amadeus Smaraco, inward bound for Avonmouth.

24/4 at 07.29 vehicle carrier Morning Crest, 19,927 tons d.w., owners Eukor Car Carrier South Korea, outward bound from Portbury having sailed at 01.53 . At 07.38 ro-ro vessel City of Hamburg, 3,500 tons d.w., owners Louis Dreyfus France, inward bound for Portbury.

25/4 at 11.17 vehicle carrier California Highway, 18,644 tons d.w., owners Kawasaki Kisen K.K. Japan, inward bound for Portbury.

27/4 at 11.29 tanker Ravel, 3,894 tons d.w., owners Ravel Tanker GMBH & Co K.G., outward bound from Barry having sailed at 07.57. At 12.09 cargo vessel Fri Brevik, inward bound for Avonmouth. At 14.12 cargo vessel Warber, 4,114 tons d.w., inward bound for Newport.

28/4 at 15.42 vehicle carrier Auto Achieve, owners UECC Uniperssoal Madeira, inward bound for Portbury.

30/4 at 14.06 vehicle carrier Neptune Dynamis, 6,850 tons d.w., owners Dynamis Shipping Greece, inward bound for Portbury. At 16.04 aggregate carrier Aasli, 6,200 tons d.w., owners Aasnes Bulk Norway, inward bound for Port Talbot.

Regards,

Norman.

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One Hundred Years Ago – May 1925.

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

www.bidefordarchive.org.uk

* * * * * *

While the River Bank and Park Committee’s report was under discussion at the meeting of Bideford Urban District Council, Mr F T Upton referred to a reference in the press to the unexplained disappearance of the captured German guns from the entrance to the Park and asked what had become of them. The Committee might inform the Council whey they had been put away in the Council’s yard.

Bideford’s highly esteemed Town Clerk, Mr W B Seldon, met with an injury to his head whilst motoring and which might easily have been more serious. He was, we understand, passing Southcott Corder, East-the-Water, in a car with his wife and daughter, when another car came out suddenly on to the road forcing the other to make a sharp swerve alongside the hedge to avoid collision. In the jolt Mr Seldon sustained a scalp wound which required to be stitched, but the injury we are glad to learn is not regarded as serious.

The extraordinary behaviour of a Bideford seafaring man on Barnstaple Long Bridge will claim the attention of Barnstaple Magistrates.

At a meeting of Bideford Town Council, it was reported that Bideford Harbour Bill had passed its second reading in the House of Lords, and will go to the unopposed committee stage to be heard by the House of Lords. The Council appointed the Borough Accountant to attend to prove the preamble.

At a meeting of Bideford Chamber of Trade it was resolved to recommend the closing of shops at noon instead of one o’clock on June 3rd, the occasion of the Bridge reopening.

Twelve lads of the Church Lads’ Brigade, under Sergt-Major Johns, formed a guard of honour at the christening of the second daughter of Captain and Mrs Snell, at St Mary’s Church, Bideford. The Sergt-Major, in a short speech, asked Mrs Snell to accept a silver Christening Cup, suitably inscribed, “To Valerie Adams Snell, from the Bideford Company, CLB.”

Furniture from 3 Gernville (Grenville) Terrace, Bideford, for sale.

P.S. Parr comes to Bideford as Inspector. Ex-Sergeant Broad is presented with a handsome sideboard.

Mr W H Rogers was re-elected chairman of Bideford Board of Guardians and Mr J M Metherell vice-chairman.

Bideford Football Club has brilliant win in the Torridge Cup Final.

Mr Frank Verren and Miss Decoutter are married at the Sacred Heart Church, Bideford.

The marriage took place at Bideford United Methodist Church of Mr F Leslie Haughton, Camelford, and Miss Florence L Adams, Westcroft, Bideford. The Rev William Rodda officiated.

5 May 1925 – The first meeting since its formation of the Rotary Club of Bideford, was held at Friendship Hotel, on Thursday, the President, the Mayor of Bideford (Dr E J Toye) presiding.

Much sympathy is felt with Mr and Mrs Potter, of Handy Cross, Bideford, in the loss they have sustained by the death, after only a brief illness, of their eldest daughter, Miss Gladys Potter. Mr Wadey officiated at the funeral which a large number of relatives and friends attended as a mark of sympathy and respect.

The funeral of the late Mrs E Sherborne, of Silver Street, Bideford, took place at the Church Cemetery, East-the-Water, in the presence of a large number of relatives and friends. The Rev W G Eeles officiated. Floral tributes were sent from the sorrowing husband and family.

The funeral of the late Miss Harriet Sing sub-postmistress of Trafalgar Place, daughter of Mr and Mrs R W Sing, took place at the Higher Cemetery, Bideford, the Rev J T Halstead officiating.

The funeral of the late Mrs Ellen Pound, widow of Mr J R Pound, who a generation ago and for many years carried on the business of a decorator in Mill Street took place at the Old Town Chapel Cemetery.

Flags were flown at half-mast on the Municipal Buildings at Bideford on the occasion of the funeral of the late Mr R E L Hookway, who had been borough surveyor for twenty years. The Mayor and Corporation attended in state, joining the cortege at the Bridge End on its arrival from Westward Ho! members of the local lodge and headed it in Bridgeland-street. The Bridge Trustees were represented by their Chairman and other members, six senior Council workmen acted as bearers, and the County Surveyor’s staff was also represented, whilst a large attendance of the professional and business element, as well as working men of the town and district testified to the general esteem in which the deceased was held by all classes.

We regret to record the death of Mr Thomas Lancey Hamlyn, decorator, late of 15 Buttgarden Street, Bideford, which occurred at his residence, Coniston, Clovelly Road, at the age of 66.

Double wedding at Bideford – Pearce-Hill, and Hill-Jeffery.

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Bideford Bike Nights – summer 2025.

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One Hundred Years Ago – April 1925.

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

www.bidefordarchive.org.uk

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Bank Holiday traffic – There was a considerable influx to North devon for the Eastertide and about 1,000 visitors arrived at Bideford on Thursday and Saturday by train.

You can buy your new Spring Hat from Stewart & Co’s in Mill Street, Bideford.

Bideford sportsmen will learn with regret of the death of Mr Frederick Wright Gill.

Alice May Kerry, of Toronto, marries William John (Cherry) Backway, formerly of Brookfield Street, Bideford.

A wedding of interest to a wide circle of friends took place at Bagborough when the marriage of Miss Betty Dening of Toulton to Mr Robert H Deubler, of Old Bank House, Bideford, was solemnised. The ceremony was conducted by Mr Douglas Brealey, of the Blackdown Hills Mission, assisted by Mr Stenbridge, and a large attendance at the service was an evidence of the esteem in which Miss Dening has been held in the neighbourhood, as also were the numerous presents an evidence of the popularity of the both bride and bridegroom.

A very pretty wedding was solemnised in St Mary’s Church, Bideford, before a large congregation on Easter Monday by the Rev C B Crofts, the contracting parties being Aubrey Cooke and Hilda Mary Short. At the Parish Church of St Mary’s Bideford, the wedding was quietly solemnised by special license of Mr George Fluck, stationer, of High Street, Bideford, and Miss Frances Coombe. The Rector, Rev W N Manning, officiated.

Bideford Board of Guardians employ F A Pearson as the Registrar of Deaths and Vaccination Officer for Northam, Appledore and Westward Ho! At a Bideford Guardians meeting the Master reported the receipt of a box of books from Mrs Lane (Instow) and also magazines from Miss Tupper (Bideford) for the inmates.

Stanley Kivell, son of Mr R Kivell, baker, of East-the-Water, Bideford, was riding a horse over Bideford Long Bridge when the horse shied at the steam of an approaching tractor, and fell with its legs under the wheels of the vehicle. The horse had to be shot and young Kivell, who had a narrow escape, was thrown clear on to the pavement on the other side of the road.

For the first time in the ‘History of Geneva’ a very decided change took place during the past year, the both schools (Girls’ and Infants’) having been united and worked as one school. It has proved most successful and encouraging.

New Inn Hotel, Bideford, and Porto Bello Inn, change hands.

Members of Bideford Farmers’ Union were very disappointed on hearing that the latest proposals in regard to improving accommodation at Bideford Cattle Market go very litter farther than rearrangement of the present space, and do not provide for the considerable and much needed enlargement for the making of which adjoining property has already been purchased and the money for paying for it obtained on loan sanctioned on the representation that the property was required for market enlargement.

The funeral of the late Mrs Alice Middleton, who passed away at 12 Lower Meddon Street, Bideford, took place at Littleham, Rev Kerrich officiating.

We regret to announce the death of Mrs Pound, widow of Mr James R Pound, formerly in business in Mill Street, Bideford, which occurred at the residence of her daughter, Mrs Featherstone, of Marine Gardens. The late Mrs Pound, who is the sister of Mrs Embery and the late Mr R T Hookway, architect, of Bideford, was held in great regard by a wide circle of friends, being of a most genial and kindly disposition. She was a much respected member of the Lavington Congregational Church.

Miss Carrie Fishleigh, of Mill-street, Bideford, while on a visit to her grandparents, Mr and Mrs R Blight of the village, was taken suddenly ill and had to be taken to her home in a car kindly lent by Mrs A Scott Browne, of Buckland House, Buckland Filleigh.

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