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Hello Bideford
Hi, welcome to the December edition of the ‘Link’ Magazine.
It’s getting closer, my favourite time of year! The nights are drawing in and the weather getting colder, will it be a white one this year? There are lots of things going on around the local area to get you in the festive mood. Weather it`s food, drink or even a carol concert. Plenty of festive fun for everyone.
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Bideford
Grants!
Bideford Town Council
Those organisations whose work includes benefit to the people of Bideford may apply for a grant from the Bideford Town Council. Application forms and criteria are obtainable from:
The Town Clerk, Town Hall, Bideford EX39 2HS / E Mail: info@bideford-tc.gov.uk / website: www.bideford-tc.gov.uk
Please note, the forms and criteria have changed. Completed forms, and associated documents, must be returned by Monday, 12 January 2026. Grants will be paid to the successful applicants in April 2026
REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY – 9 NOVEMBER 2025
The Bideford Town Council organise and lead the commemoration for Bideford’s Remembrance Services and Parades. There is much coordination work from the first application for the Road Closures, liaison with the Emergency Services, local authorities, commercial bus and taxi services to those organisations that take part in the Parade and, not least, the Ministers of St Mary’s Church.
Prior to the Event the Council’s Rangers, in tandem with TDC’s ground staffs, prepare Victoria Park right up to the “eleventh hour.” Extraordinary amounts of leaves are collected including three “dumpy bags,” on the day!
The Mayor and Mayoress, escorted by a piper (Mike Harper) and minister laid a wreath during a short service at Chudleigh Fort. A number of local residents attended who witnessed Councillor Jamie McKenzie read the names of all those from Bideford who had fallen during the two World Wars.
The Rangers managed the road closures, details had been previously posted in the local paper, Council website and social media, that provided for the Civic Party to process to Victoria Park for the Service and wreath laying, led by the Bideford Youth Pipe Band and later the Parade.
Reverend Prebendary Claire Rose-Casemore took the Service in Park, the Town Marshal organised the Parade personnel, wreath laying, read the Kohima Epitaph and the final lines from, “For the Fallen,” “They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old.”
On conclusion the Youth Pipe Band led the Civic Party to the saluting, dais followed by the Parade, led by the Bideford Town Band and thence on to St Mary’s Church for a further Service led by Reverend Alan Glover.
Armistice Day was commemorated again at Chudleigh Fort, Councillor James Hellyer laying a wreath; St Mary’s Church memorial, the Mayor laying a wreath with a short service and again at Victoria Park where a short service was conducted by Reverend Robin Pirie, a lament reveille played by the Piper (Mike Harper) and wreath laid by Councillor Mrs Linda Hellyer.
Each of the commemorative acts whilst dignified and solemn in execution paid tribute to those fallen during World War I and II but, equally importantly, to those lost in later and more recent conflicts and the impact upon those left behind.
The numbers in attendance attested to the importance of the occasion to the people of Bideford. Appreciation also, to all those who took part.
St. Mary’s Church
Appledore Christmas Lights on and Festivities 5th December 2025
6th December Fund Raising Coffee Morning at the Royal Appledore for St. Mary’s Church
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Christmas Tree Festival 5th December to 2nd January at St. Mary`s Church
Walks in December
Here are the walks that the North Devon Ramblers are doing in December. Please remember that walks may be cancelled or changed at short notice owing to weather conditions. It is recommended to check on our website northdevonramblers.org.uk or with the Walk Leader if in doubt. Everyone is welcome to join us on our walks but please come suitably shod and with food, drink and waterproof clothing. It is likely to be wet and muddy at this time of year!
Wednesday 3rd December- Baggy Point Circular. Meet in Baggy Point NT Car Park at 10.30. for a pleasant 5.5 mile walk to Putsborough and back returning on the South West Coast Path.
Saturday 6th December- Christmas at the Hall. Meet at Chapleton Station at 10.00 for a leisurely 4.5 mile walk to Herner Chapel and The Hall.
Sunday 14th December- Harwood goes to Horwood. Meet at the lay-by by the Westleigh turn off on the B3223 at 10.30. for a 9-mile walk around Horwood.
Wednesday 17th December- Dulverton Riverside Walk. Meet at Exmoor House Car Park in Dulverton (car parking fees apply) at 10.30 for a 4 mile circular river walk with one ascent returning in time for lunch!
Saturday 20th December- Melbury Hill. Meet at 10.00 by St James’ Church in Parkham for a leisurely 5.5 mile walk towards Melbury Plantation and Melbury Hill.
Please join us in our Winter Walking Festival which will be taking place daily from 1st to 4th January 2026, featuring a walk for all the family. More to follow in next month’s issue.
We look forward to seeing you!
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22 When responding to adverts please mention ‘The Link’ magazine
When responding to adverts please mention ‘The Link’ magazine
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28 When responding to adverts please mention ‘The Link’ magazine
Toadvertise simply email mag@thelinkpublications.co.uk or
When responding to adverts please mention ‘The Link’ magazine
TheMacularGroup
Meet once a month ,on the first Thursday of each month, at The BURTON, Bideford, in the KINGSLEY ROOM ,BETWEEN 10 am-12 NOON. All are welcome. Looking forward to meeting you. Any queries contact Richard Lockwood on 01237 476827
Northam&DistrictMen'sForum
The Forum welcomes back existing and invites new Members to our weekly Thursday meetings from 10:15am to 12 noon, October to the end of April at the Methodist Church Hall, Cross Street, Northam. Interesting speakers on a range of topics. Refreshments available. Please contact Keith on 01237 459299 for more information.
Coffeemorning,chatandcraftswithTogetherAgain.
The Pollyfield Community Centre 10am to 12pm Tuesdays
BidefordFridayAfternoonTableTennis playing every Friday from 2.30-4.30 at Bideford Youth Centre, The Pill, Bideford. Come along and enjoy friendly table tennis! Call Jan on 07467 221199 for more details or just turn up!
CLEVERCRAFTERS Old school room,Atlantic way rom 10am to 12, every Friday. We are open to everyone (crafters and non crafters) for tea/coffee cake and conversation.
Care&ShareCafé Meet at Holy Trinity Church hall, Westward Ho! on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month, from 10am - 12md. Call Nicola 07813456059 for details. Come and join us.
StMargaret’sChurch, Northam, Open Church on Friday mornings for coffees, teas, and a book stall from 10.15 – 12noon
Knit&NattergroupatBidefordlibrary 1st and 3rd Monday of every month. 2-4pm. All ages and levels of expertise welcome. No charge but we make a donation for our tea and biscuits.
Westward Ho!LadiesClub We meet every Thursday at 7.30p.m. from September to May in the Schoolroom of the Kingsley Hall Westward Ho!. We have a variety of speakers and new members are always welcome. Please contact Alison on 07929 958654 for more information.
NorthamChoralSociety – meets at 7.30 every Tuesday evening, excluding the summer holidays, in St Mary’s Church Bideford. The choir is open to all ages and voices, and holds regular concerts in May and December. Come along and join us – it’s fun! For more information you can either contact Michael on 07933 244247, or just come along and see what we do.
BidefordFolkClub meets every Thursday at 7:30pm in the Joiner’s Arms, Bideford, EX39 2DR
For more information see Website: www.bidefordfolkclub.com or John Purser 01237 424286, bidefolk@gmail.com"
Westward Ho! BridgeClub every Tuesday and Thursday in the Holy Trinity hall, starting at 6.45pm. Ring Graham on 01237 470990 or email penkenna2@gmail.com
BidefordPhoenixMorris Why not join to dance or play this year.
7.00pm to 9pm at the Baptist Church Hall, Mill Street, Bideford. For more information contact Neil or Carolyn on 01237 473798, email: info@bidefordphoenix.co.uk
TorridgeMaleVoiceChoir - Woolsery Village Hall. Rehearsals on Wednesdays from 7.45pm-9.30pm. New members welcome. Contact John on 07929 334070 for information. There is no audition!
StMargaret’sChurchNortham“CoffeeatMaggies” From 10am 3.30pm on Tuesday and 10am - 2pm Wednesday to Saturday inclusive where they serve a fantastic variety of homemade cakes and drinks which all of us villagers absolutely love. Appledoreshortmatbowls played at the community centre Tuesdays 7-9 pm £3 a session.
NorthamBadmintonClub friendly club play every Thursday afternoon 2pm to 3pm at Northam Community Centre
TheJollyDollies Especially for widows, we meet each week for coffee and a chat and to plan excursions and outings. For further information contact thejollydollies.co.uk'
Abbotshamshortmatbowlsclub Held at Abbotsham hall Thursdays 2-4pm £3 a session tel: bid 421585
TORRIDGERAMBLERS are a friendly group who walk the footpaths and bridleways of the Torridge area with additional walks further afield. Walks open to all ages. For details of walks or more information contact our chairman Chris 07989555717 or clemo9@hotmail.com
Northam Monday Afternoon Table Tennis - playing Mondays, 14:00-15:30 at Northam Community Centre, Fore Street. Just turn up for a friendly, informal session with coaching available. Ring 07929823185 for more information Kenwith Company of Archers -Tuesday evenings at our Littleham Field and Bideford indoors. Taster sessions & beginners courses for newcomers. Contact David on 07866667971
WHRA Quiz. Friday 10 October, 7.30pm, Kingsley Hall, Westward Ho! Teams of up to 6, £5 entry each. Cash prizes. Limited bar available.
Westward Ho! Artisan Market -Saturday 1st November - 10-3pm Westward Ho! Local Artisan Market at Westward Ho ! Baptist Church Hall Local Artisans selling arts and crafts. Pop up coffee shop. Friday 21st November -4-8pm Westward Ho! - Local Artisan Market at Westward Ho ! Baptist Church Hall- Local Artisans selling arts and crafts. Friday 12th December- 4-8pm Westward Ho! Local Artisan Market at Westward Ho ! Baptist Church Hall Local Artisans selling arts and crafts. Pop up coffee shop . Pop up coffee shop supporting Riverside support group supporting the North Devon Hospice .
Bideford Whist Club– Tuesday and Thursday at 2pm in the Marlborough Court common room, Bideford. £2 per session. For more details contact Betty on 01237473395.
Bideford Music Club -. The next concert hosted by the music Club at St. Marys Church will be on Sunday11th. January at 3.00pm when we welcome MZ Duo. They are a Canadian saxophonist David Zucci and a Spanish accordionist Mikeleiz Berrade. Their repertoire includes traditional works , modern compositions and improvisation. The programme on Sunday will include works by Grieg, Ravel Piazzola. On Saturday in collaboration with the Burton and the Friends of the Burton the MZ Duo will present a programme at the Burton based around the artwork and musical interests of Joan Miro. This concert will start at 4.00pm on Saturday 10th.January at the Burton Art Gallery and tickets cost £10.00. Advanced booking is essential as space is limited. Please contact Pam Thompson gthomp1059@aol;com for more details about the Saturday concert.
Appledore Community Art is a friendly self-help art group who meet weekly in Appledore Community Hall between 10-12 noon. Want to get back into painting...come along for a cuppa and a chat. Every Monday. Contact Margaret 07891081032.
Appledore Band Carol Concert, at Holy Trinity Church, Atlantic Way, Westward Ho! On Sunday 14th December at 3.00pm, retiring Collection shared between the Church and Appledore Band. Everyone very welcome.
Christingle making- 13th December 11am until oranges run out. Baptist Church forecourt Mill Street. Free Event
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Bideford Friends Group, Northam Community Hall. Meet 2nd and 4th
Wednesday each month 2pm - 4pm. Entertainment, singing groups, speakers, poetry group etc. £3 donation including refreshments. Call Alan on 07866007805 or Chris on 07828719351
The Holy Trinity Knit&natter group
What’s On
Meet at the church hall in Westward Ho! on the First & third Wednesday of the month, from 1.30pm - 3.30pm Call Catherine on 01237- 475720 for details or just come along.
TheAppledoreSingers-New members are welcome, so why not ring 01237 420652 to find out more about joining us. Further information about us is also available on our website: theappledoresingers.co.uk or our Facebook page. Rehearsals Mondays 7.30 – 9pm Appledore Baptist Church
TorridgeWalk&Talk Come and join us on one of our Tuesday and Wednesday Walks. Contact:torridgewalkandtalk.co.uk OR phone Steve 01237 421528 A variety of walks for all levels, Just turn up and join in for free.
TheJollyGardenersClub email jollygardenersclub@gmail.com for more details. We have a Facebook group where members can post news about what they have been up to in their gardens and we can let you know about meetings and events.
WEDNESDAYS BidefordFolkDanceClub- Meet at Northam Hall at 7.30 pm. Experience or partners not necessary.
Please contact Chris on 01237 423554 for further information.
NorthamWI We meet on the first Friday of each month at 7pm in Northam Hall, Fore Street, Northam. Do come and join us. Contact northam@devonwi.org or ring Julie 01237 237263.
APPLEDOREW.I.-We meet on the first Friday of each month at 2pm in The Blue Lights Hall in Vernons Lane in Appledore. We currently have a waiting list and if you would like to find out more please contact Melanie 01237 429455.
PINSANDNEEDLES all crafts using threads, pins, wool and needles, we welcome all ages and all skill levels 2nd Saturday of every month 9.30-12.30pm Sticklepath methodist hall, Rhododendron Avenue, Barnstaple, EX31 2DL good car parking and on bus route 21 contact Anita 01237 422458
RocknRollclubinWestward Ho!-Rocking Shoes Rock n Roll Club. Kingsley Hall Westward Ho! 1st & 3rd Friday of the month 7.30 10.30pm, Bar available.
BidefordProbusClub At TheThatched Inn,Abbotsham on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month - Tel 07864679690
BIDEFORDTREFOILGUILD We meet at All Saints Chapel Community Centre Instow on the first Tuesday of the Month 7-9pm. If you would like to know more please contact Sandra Nevard 07976117778 for more information.
CarryOnChoir - Weds 7:30 - 9 pm at Pollyfield Centre, Thursdays 2:00 - 3:30pm at Westward Ho Baptist Church, Thursdays 7:30 - 9 pm at Westward Ho Baptist Church. Contact Emelia on 07834 714807 to check term dates and arrange a free taster session. Everyone welcome. No auditions, music reading or experience required. Sense of humour essential.
BREAKAWAYSOCIALCLUBforADULTSatWESTWARDHO!-The Club is held at the Baptist Church Hall on Mondays from 6.30 to 8.30pm. It is open to adults (18+) and we welcome anyone with additional needs.
WEAREALSOLOOKING FORNEWVOLUNTEERS. Please contact Nikki: 07920054005 for more information.
KenwithBadminton Contact Jan for info 07467 221199.
FeelBetterwithaBook The group meets every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at 2.30 in Bideford Library. We have a drink and biscuit, listen to stories and poems and have a friendly chat.
BidefordCameraClub We meet most Tuesday evenings throughout the year for talks, competitions, photo walks. All ages (16+) / abilities. See https://bidefordcameraclub.co.uk/contact to find out more.
OasisforLadies First Wednesday of every month. 2-4 pm Appledore Baptist Church. Make new friends and enjoy chat, refreshments, games etc. For details contact, Ruth 07799661641
NorthDevonandTorridgeLAS(LifeafterStroke}associatedwiththeStrokeAssociation atFremingtonParishHall,HigherRd,FremingtonEX313BG. SocialandActivitieseveryFriday1100-1300,Strokesurvivorsandcarersvery welcome. LundyArtGroup Enjoy art and painting? We are a friendly group who meet on the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month 10 am – 12 noon at the Blue Lights Hall, Vernons Lane, Appledore. In addition to working on our own paintings we have an exciting programme of workshops throughout the year. For more info call Marian on 07766692732
NorthDevonModelSociety: meets every Thursday from 6 to 9pm at Roundswell Community Centre, next to Sainsburys. All abilities and ages welcome. We are a friendly club who share our skills and expertise to make Plastic Kits, Sculpt, Scratch Build, 3D print and paint scale models of Figures, Tanks, Boats, Ships, Cars, Trucks, Planes, Si-Fi, dioramas. Please come along, see https:// northdevonmodelsociety.co.uk/ OldSkoolR/C - the meeting for racing R/C cars indoors, Every Tuesday from 6.30pm at Fremington Parish Hall. (part of North Devon Model Society)
NorthDevonRogues- the meeting for War gaming and War hammer games Every Tuesday from 6.30pm Fremington Parish Hall. (part of North Devon Model Society)
CommunityCre8tivesCIC Tuesdays 10am- 12:30pm at the Pollyfield Community Centre , Bideford. Contact 07386 893638
ThursdayFellowship Once a fortnight at Northam Methodist Church Hall 2.15. The price is £2 including draw, tea & biscuits . We have an interesting speaker, tea & biscuits (sometimes cake) and a draw each meeting...it is a very friendly, interesting group, open to all and all welcome. Contact number Maggie Smale 07773194035 .
December11th Christmas service.
St. Mary's Church Yard- People needed to help our team in Churchyard. Normally 1st Sat. of month 9.301pm unless bad weather. Will notify in Facebook, if any different. Just turn up. Tools and goodies provided. Rock Church-every Sunday morning at 1030am worship service with Children’s Church at 11am. Lime Grove, Bideford, EX393JW
Westward Ho! Sandpipers short mat bowling club-Meet at the Kingsley Hall every Monday at 6.45p.m.
New and experienced bowlers welcomed. Ring John on 07719437000 for more information.
St Margaret's Church, Northam Christmas recital 'Sing Noel Noel' Wednesday 17th December 7pm. Free entry. Mince Pies, mulled wine served in interval. Raffle with fabulous prizes. Retiring collection.
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Useful Information
Opening times may vary, please contact the Library direct for full details
Libraries (renewals 0345 155 1001)
Appledore 01237 477442
Mon closed
Tues 10am - 1pm
Weds 2pm - 5pm
Thurs 10am - 12pm
Fri closed Sat 10am - 12pm
Bideford 01237 476075
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 9:30am - 6pm
Weds Closed Sat 9.30am - 1:30pm
Chemists
Bideford
Lloyds Pharmacy 01237 421221
Clarence Wharf
Bideford Pharmacy 01237 472002
Abbotsham Rd
Asda Chemist 01237 427720
Affinity, Bideford
Farmers' Markets
Barnstaple Pannier Market
Local produce market all year
Tuesday & Saturday
Tel: 01271 379084
Hartland Parish Hall
1st Sunday of each month from April to October 10am - 1pm
Tel: 01237 441786
Pannier Market Days
Bideford
Market Hall Open Tuesday through to Saturday 9am - 4pm.
