Hello Bideford
Hi, welcome to the August edition of the Link’ Magazine.
I hope everyone managed to cope okay with the recent heatwave, especially with fans and air conditioning units being sold out everywhere.
With the summer holidays upon us, it is busier then ever. We do lots of great events going on in August though.
The Bideford Fair & Mayor’s Parade is taking
him?
Unfortunately he has run away again, up to his old tricks! Can you help me find him? He will be hiding behind an advert in the magazine
Once you have found him, send his location to me. mag@thelinkpublications.co.uk or use the contact form on the web site.
One person will be drawn from the correct answers to win. Closing date for entries 14h August 2026
He’s hiding in one of the adverts inside the magazine. Find him to Win a Sunday lunch for two at the Beaver Inn, Appledore
Send your answers by email to mag@thelinkpublications.co.uk
Closing date is August 14th 2026 One person will be drawn from the correct answers to win.
Our Genuinely Local, Friendly, Quality Service. Gutter and Downpipe Clearance UPVC gutter, fascia and soffit washing UPVC doors and window frames cleaned Exterior Wall and Patio soft washing removes and kills green algae Blocked gutters lead to damp issues. Rain water over spill, visible moss, leaves and plant growth all need attention to protect your property. for Professional, Fast and Reliable Gutter Cleaning. Call 01237 238 801 Joshua & Samantha Jackson
‘© Crown Copyright and/or database rights. Reproduced by permission of The Keeper of Public Records and the UK Hydrographic Office (www.GOV.uk/UKHO).’
Please
Residents invited to help shape new local plan for North Devon and Torridge
People across North Devon and Torridge are being invited to help shape the future of the area, as its district councils start work on a new local plan. Through the People and Place project, North Devon and Torridge district councils are starting to prepare a new local plan which will set out the long-term vision for the area over the next two-to-three decades.
The plan will shape how towns and villages grow, where new homes and jobs could be ocated, and how important issues like transport, flooding and climate change are managed – all while protecting the area’s landscapes.
Titled A Plan for Northern Devon, it will be used alongside national planning policy to determine which developments will and will not be allowed. Residents have the opportunity to shape and influence the plan at three key stages. The first stage, known as a scoping consultation, is now under way. The questionnaire asks residents, businesses and groups how the plan can support communities to grow and thrive, what they value about northern Devon and the issues they feel are most important. The six-week consultation is now open and will close at 17:00 on Tuesday 11th August 2026.
Councillor Robert Hicks, Chair of the North Devon and Torridge Joint Planning Policy Committee, said: “This scoping consultation is an important first step for this new plan, although it is important to note that we are not making decisions about specific sites at this stage. Instead, we want to hear from local residents, businesses, community groups and other stakeholders about the key issues they’re facing in the area. "The feedback we receive will help us understand what matters most to our communities and ensure that the foundation of the new plan reflects local priorities. We are hoping as many people as possible will take part and share their views, so we can create a plan that supports both the future needs and aspirations of our area.”
Councillor Malcolm Prowse, Vice-Chair of the North Devon and Torridge Joint Planning Policy Committee, said: "Creating a new local plan is the start of an exciting new chapter for our area, giving us the opportunity to influence how our home grows and evolves over the next couple of decates.”
"This affects everyone who lives, works and visits here, which is why we want as many people as possible to get involved early by taking part in this consultation, and those that will follow, to help shape the plan and make it a true reflection of our incredible communities."
Residents can take part in the consultation by visiting the North Devon and Torridge Consultation Portal and completing the questionnaire. People can also submit comments in the following ways: By email to shapetheplan@northdevon.gov.uk or shapetheplan@torridge.gov.uk
By post to North Devon Council Planning Policy Team, North Devon Council, Lynton House, Commercial Road, Barnstaple, EX31 1DG; or Torridge Planning Policy Team, Torridge District Council, Riverbank House, Bideford, EX39 2QG
Completing a paper copy, which is available at the Town Centre Hub in Barnstaple's Green Lanes Shopping Centre, the Ilfracombe Centre, the Amory Centre in South Molton, and Riverbank House in Bideford
More information about the People and Place project is available at northdevon.gov.uk/peopleandplace or torridge.gov.uk/peopleandplace
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.
Bingo- Meet at Holy Trinity Church hall, Westward Ho!, Bingo every 4th Saturday, open 2.30, eyes down at 3pm. Contact Nicola 07813456059.
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.
ThursdayFellowshipNorthamMethodistHall 2.15pm. Guest speakers, Tea/Coffee £2.00. 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 Join us to dance or play this year. We practice September to April at Bideford Baptist Hall 7pm to 9pm and dance out in North Devon May to August. For more information contact Sally on 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' Contact Jean– 07866 592019
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 orclemo9@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.
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.
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.
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. Appledore Singers- Are pleased to announce their Super Summer Concert which is on Sunday 5th July 2026 at Northam Hall (top of Fore Street) Northam starting at 2.30pm. Admission price is £6 at the door which includes Tea, Coffee and Biscuits (under 16’s go free) and there will also be a raffle.
Patchwork/sewing group held at Marlborough Court, Park Lane, Bideford every Friday morning from 9.30am til 12.30 pm. Open to all. Contact 07763494186 for more information.
North Devon Model Show- Raising Funds for the local RNLI stations, Appledore, Clovelly & Ilfracombe.- Sunday August 16th 2026 10 till 4. The South West’s largest exhibition of models of Figures, Tanks, Boats, Trains, Ships, Cars, Trucks, Planes, Si-Fi, dioramas, R/C Cars & War gamming, all made using Plastic Kits, Sculpting, Scratch Builds, and 3D prints. TWO Halls with huge number of displays, Model Kit & Tool traders, PLUS bring your own Radio control cars to run on our NEW off road R/C track. Kids can make & take away a model for Free. Classic & Sports car display. Food Court. Entry: Adults £5; 7 to 16 year olds £2; under 7’s Free; Serving armed forces FREE. Free Parking. Venue: The Park Community School, off Bishops Tawton Road, Barnstaple EX32 9FB.
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 Di on 01237 476663 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 The Thatched 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.
WEAREALSOLOOKINGFORNEWVOLUNTEERS. 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. 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 .
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. Atlantic Flower Club- meets in Northam Hall on the 4th Thursday of the month. Friendly group with a demonstrator most months! First visit free, come along and see what we do!
ARTISAN MARKET - Every Tuesday during the school holidays in the Westward Ho! Baptist Church Hall 10-3pm. Every week there is a pop up coffee shop supporting a local charity. Westward Ho! Art Club Annual Exhibition- Held in Westward Ho! Baptist church. Monday 3rd August 13.30-16.00. Tuesday 4th August 10.00 – 16.00. Saturday 8th August 10-16.00. Refreshments available. Contact Jannet for more information 01237 477601
Bubble artist- Internationally renowned, Totnes-based bubble artist Bubbles LaFae is bringing her new interactive family show, Once Upon a Bubble Show, to The Plough Arts Centre, Great Torrington, on Friday 7 August at 1.30pm.
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
Sunday Closed
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.
Butchers Row and Market Place shops
Open Tuesday – Saturday
Barnstaple
Wednesday Antiques & General Market
Tues, Thurs, Produce & General Market
Fri & Sat
Torrington
Friday & Sat General Market
09.00 15.00
Northam 01237 475111
Mon 10am - 1pm Tues closed Wed 10am - 6pm
closed
10am - 5pm
10am - 1pm Sunday Closed
Torrington 01805 622107
Mon 10am - 1pm
Tues 10am - 6pm
Weds Closed
Thurs 10am - 5pm Fri, Sat 10am - 1pm
Sunday Closed
Northam
Boots the Chemist 01237 474340
Bay View Rd
Torrington Lloyds Pharmacy, 01805 622174
High St
Westward Ho! Arnolds Pharmacy 01237 473829
Post Office Opening Times
Instow Sub Post Office 01271 861417
Northam
01237 424807
- Tues 07.30 - 17.30
09.00 - 17.30
– Fri 07.30 - 17.30
09.00 - 12.30
Westward Ho! 01237 471727 Mon Sat 09.00 - 17.00
The Quay, Bideford
0345722 3344 Mon - Fri 09.00 - 17.30 Sat 09.00 - 12.30
When responding to adverts please mention ‘The Link’ magazine
- We utilise high tensile, lightweight materials for permanent
- We will transform your conservatory into a beautiful addition to your home, that you can enjoy all year round.
Tired of your conservatory being ice cold in the winter and boiling hot in the summer? Call
