TOP STORY Local council See Page 14 and 30
Tide Times See Page 10
The Devon AI Data Centre See page 12-13 Northam Neighbourhood Plan Page 23
North Devon Ramblers Page 25
2x prizes to be won ‘Larry The Lamb’ ‘Boycie the Beaver’
The independent directory of businesses delivered FREE to residents of Bideford, Appledore, Northam, Abbotsham and Westward Ho!
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Publisher: The Link Publications Editor: Lewis Coppard Advertising: 07512 748343 Email: mag@thelinkpublications.co.uk Web: www.thelinkpublications.co.uk Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. The Link does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this Publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise - without the prior permission of the publisher.
Contents Larry the Lamb 5 Boycie the Beaver 5 Tide Times 10 Devon AI Data Centre 12-13 Bideford Town Council 14 Northam Neighbourhood Plan 23 North Devon Ramblers 25 What’s On 28-29 Northam Town Council 30 Useful information 32 Eye test finds potentially life threatening heart condition 34-35
Hello Bideford
Hi, welcome to the November edition of the ‘Link’ Magazine. Lots of things going on during November, Firework displays and farmers markets starting for Christmas. Remember to book your Christmas party early and pre ordered the turkey. If you want to enjoy some fireworks this November, the best and safest way is at an organised display including The Big Sheep`s main display at 7:30pm on the 5th. If you do your own fireworks, please be safe and follow the firework code. The Remembrance Day Service will take place at the War Memorial in Victoria Park, Bideford on Sunday 8th November. from 10.40am, to honour and remember those who we have lost, with the two minutes silence marked at 11am. See you next month.
Home Computer Tuition & Servicing Computer Tuition (Emailing, Word Processing, Web Browsing, Spreadsheets and Editing Photos) Computer Servicing, Virus Removal, Trouble Shooting and much more. Tuition £30 per hour — Servicing £35 per hour OAP Discount 10% Gareth Alexander
Tel: 07816 521665 4
Competitions
Well done to everyone who found the missing ‘Larry’ & ‘Boycie’ last month The winner for finding ‘Larry’ is Linda Dark, you have won 2 tickets to ‘The Big Sheep’ The winner for finding ‘Boycie’ is Sophi Warrington, you have won a meal for two at ‘The Beaver’ in Appledore. Congratulations to you both. See if you can find them again this month, details on page 5
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Win 2 Tickets to visit The Big Sheep in Abbotsham
‘Larry the Lamb’
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 – 13h November 2026
THE BEAVER INN APPLEDORE
WIN
Sunday
Lunch
‘Boycie the Beaver’ has gone missing, Can you find him? 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 Novemebr 13th 2026 One person will be drawn from the correct answers to win.
Gutter Cleaning Bideford 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 guttercleaningbideford@gmail.com Recommended on Google ***** To advertise simply email mag@thelinkpublications.co.uk or call 07512 748343
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Semi-Retired Builder 45 Years Experience | Over 20 Years in the Area Got something that needs fixing? A job that’s been put off too long? Whether it’s repairs, small projects, or something that needs putting together — I can help.
✅All Trades Covered ✅First-Class Workmanship ✅Reliable, Friendly Service ✅Great Rates No job too small — just honest, quality work from someone who knows the trade inside and out.
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
BUILDING PLUMBING AND ELECTRICAL Renovations Garden Walls Patios/Paths Retaining Walls Shed Bases Fencing, Decking & Much More FREE QUOTES AND FRIENDLY ADVICE NO JOB TOO SMALL FULLY INSURED CALL TERRY ON OFFICE 01271 325200 / TERRY 07578502775
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Tide Times
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‘© Crown Copyright and/or database rights. Reproduced by permission of The Keeper of Public Records and the UK Hydrographic Office (www.GOV.uk/UKHO).’
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Bideford
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speak to Paula
07415949568
paulalesley@ovenwizards.com
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Before
Before
After
After
Conservatory Roof Insulation and Replacement Specialists Ltd
Our Northam based company specialises in conservatory inside insulation and entirely new roof systems. Why choose us? - We utilise high tensile, lightweight materials for permanent results. - 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 Dom now for a free consultation and quote to make your conservatory a room you can be proud of.
All workmanship and materials come with a no nonsense 10 year guarantee
07432156700
conservatoryinsulate.co.uk Before
After
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Steve Arnold Heating, Plumbing & Gas services Established since 1985 Gas Safe Registered Gas Installer Worcester Bosch Accredited Installer, Service repair to all Gas/LPG appliances Installations of Worcester Bosch High Efficiency Boilers Full Central Heating Installations Landlord Certificates Bathrooms/Showers/Tiling Solar Heating Installations No Job Too Small 12874
Call 01237 420864 or 07850 826702 57 staddon road, Appledore
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P. J. Roose Painting & Decorating Services Tel: 07791 489828 paulroose1@hotmail.co.uk 30 Years Experience Fully Qualified Tradesman 19 Riverside Close Bideford, EX392RX
07968 009812 / 07722 077366 01237 237588 info@alanwilsonwindows.co.uk www.alanwilsonwindows.co.uk Unit 20 Farm Road, Caddsdown Industrial Park, Bideford, Devon EX39 3BE
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Northam Cars
Tel: 01237 477120 Mobile 07498 612316
(Incorporating Tarka Private Hire)
Tel: 01237 479023
PAUL WAWRYCHUK
Friendly Reliable Service
Woodcote, Abbotsham Bideford, Devon EX39 5AT
Mob: 07785 961543
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QUALIFIED PAINTER & DECORATOR
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Northam Neighbourhood Plan 2024-2031 formally adopted and will be used to make decisions on planning applications in the parish of Northam.
The Northam Neighbourhood Plan 2024-2031 has been formally adopted by Torridge District Council, receiving unanimous support at a meeting of its Full Council on 21 September 2026, marking the successful end of a long journey. The neighbourhood plan will be used alongside the North Devon and Torridge Local Plan 2011-2031 to make planning decisions across the parish of Northam. The Northam Neighbourhood Plan has been prepared by Northam Town Council, who have engaged with communities over several years to create the vision and policies laid out in the plan. The plan covers subjects such as design, locally important views, local green spaces and heritage and will have a real influence on how the area develops over the coming years. Torridge District Council has supported Northam Town Council with the progression of the plan and has recently carried out the referendum that showed overwhelming public support for the plan from those who turned out to vote. Further information about the Northam Neighbourhood Plan 2024-2031 can be found at https://www.torridge.gov.uk/northamnp and https:// www.northamneighbourhoodplan.co.uk/
Councillor Rosemary Lock, Lead Member for Planning and Development at Torridge District Council said: “Neighbourhood plans allow people to work together to make planning policies that reflect the needs of their area. The Northam Neighbourhood Plan 2024-2031 will be the third neighbourhood plan for Torridge to be adopted by Torridge District Council and shows that communities and councils continue to successfully work together to achieve better places. I want to say a big congratulations to all those involved in making the plan over several years, all the persons who voted in favour of this plan, and for all the help given by all members of the community and hard working Town and District Council staff. As Chair of the Plans Committee for Torridge, I am looking forward to seeing that the plan achieves the aims that people in the neighbourhood area worked and then voted for.” To advertise simply email mag@thelinkpublications.co.uk or call 07512 748343
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North Devon Ramblers Walks-November Wednesday 4th November. Dulverton Riverside (With possible extension) A 4 mile leisurely circular walk along the River Barle, returning through woodland. Lunch in Dulverton with a chance to see the Hope Bourne Exhibition. Meet at the Exmoor House Car Park. Start time: 10.30am, estimated finish: 1pm. Wednesday 11th November. Hunters Inn-Woody Bay. A 6.5 mile circular walk from Hunters Inn along the coast path to Woody Bay.Meet at Hunters Inn NT car park. Start time: 10.30am, estimated finish: 3.30pm Wednesday 25th November. Lee to Torrs Park. A circular 7 mile walk following the coastal route via Higher Slade.Meet at the new NT car park at Lee Bay. Start time: 10.30am, estimated finish: 2.30pm
Please refer to our website for further information: northdevonramblers.org
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01237 473 746
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Pupils from East-the-Water Primary School take part in Democracy Event and get to share ideas on Bideford Town Centre.
On Monday 5 October 2026, Torridge District Council hosted a Democracy event for year 6 students at East-the-Water Primary School, to give them a feel for how democracy works on a day-to-day basis. The interactive session invited students to give their thoughts on Bideford and the future of the Town Centre. Through a series of group tasks involving mind mapping and a democratic voting session using real life polling booths and ballot boxes, the year 6s were encouraged to think about what makes Bideford a great place to live and their own priorities for its future. The activity sparked a range of engaging discussions amongst students, each contributing their unique perspective and insights on the matter. All the students showed a fantastic level of enthusiasm and had interesting ideas about how the town could be improved. The mind maps and suggestions generated by the students will be shared with the Bideford Regeneration Board - so there's every chance that some of these ideas and proposals could become a reality. Councillor Jude Gubb, Torridge Councillor for Bideford East, said: “The enthusiasm, confidence and thoughtful ideas shown by the pupils were truly inspiring! They demonstrated a real passion for the local community and their future – events like this truly highlight why it is so important that we listen to and engage with young people.” Sean Matthews, Subject Lead at East-the-Water Primary School, said: “The democracy workshop was a fantastic opportunity for our Year 6 pupils to understand the important role of our local council and to think about the future of Bideford. They were all so engaged and inspired, and it was fantastic to see them realise that they have a role to play in shaping the future of their own community.” To advertise simply email mag@thelinkpublications.co.uk or call 07512 748343
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The Macular Group
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 & District Men's Forum
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.
Coffee morning, chat and crafts with Together Again.
The Pollyfield Community Centre 10am to 12pm Tuesdays Bideford Friday Afternoon Table Tennis 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! CLEVER CRAFTERS 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. St Margaret’s Church, Northam, Open Church on Friday mornings for coffees, teas, and a book stall from 10.15 – 12noon Knit & Natter group at Bideford library 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. Thursday Fellowship Northam Methodist Hall 2.15pm. Guest speakers, Tea/Coffee £2.00. Westward Ho! Ladies Club 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. Northam Choral Society – 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. Bideford Folk Club 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! Bridge Club every Tuesday and Thursday in the Holy Trinity hall, starting at 6.45pm. Ring Graham on 01237 470990 or email penkenna2@gmail.com Bideford Phoenix Morris 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 Torridge Male Voice Choir - 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! St Margaret’s Church Northam “Coffee at Maggies” 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. Appledore short mat bowls played at the community centre Tuesdays 7-9 pm £3 a session. Northam Badminton Club friendly club play every Thursday afternoon 2pm to 3pm at Northam Community Centre The Jolly Dollies 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 Abbotsham short mat bowls club Held at Abbotsham hall Thursdays 2-4pm £3 a session tel:— bid 421585 TORRIDGE RAMBLERS 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.
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.
St Margaret's Church, Northam, invite you to a Christmas Fair, with raffle, gifts, clothing and food stalls. Refreshments available from maggies and a Santa's Grotto. Saturday November 21st 10am - 4pm
Appledore Band Remembrance Festival Concert, at Holy Trinity Church, Westward Ho! EX39 1HX, On Friday 6th November at 7.30. Adults £10.00, Children £5.00. In support of the Royal British Legion. Tickets available from Ticketsource, https://www.ticketsourse.com.h-t-c-events. Appledore Band Carol Concert, at Holy Trinity Church, Atlantic Way, Westward Ho! On Sunday 13th December at 3.00pm. Retiring collection shared between Appledore Band & Holy Trinty Church.
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Bideford Friends Group, Northam Community Hall. Meet 2nd and 4th
What’s On
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
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. The Appledore Singers -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 Torridge Walk & 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. The Jolly Gardeners Club 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 Bideford Folk Dance Club- Meet at Northam Hall at 7.30 pm. Experience or partners not necessary. Please contact Chris on 01237 423554 for further information. Northam WI 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. APPLEDORE W.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. PINS AND NEEDLES 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 Rock n Roll club in Westward Ho! -Rocking Shoes Rock n Roll Club. Kingsley Hall Westward Ho! 1st & 3rd Friday of the month 7.30—10.30pm, Bar available. Bideford Probus Club At The Thatched Inn, Abbotsham on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month - Tel 07864679690 Bideford Trefoil Guild 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. Carry On Choir - 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. BREAKAWAY SOCIAL CLUB for ADULTS at WESTWARD HO!-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. WE ARE ALSO LOOKING FOR NEW VOLUNTEERS. Please contact Nikki: 07920054005 for more information. Kenwith Badminton Contact Jan for info 07467 221199. Feel Better with a Book 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. Bideford Camera Club 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. Oasis for Ladies 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
North Devon andTorridge LAS (Life after Stroke} associated with the StrokeAssociation
at Fremington Parish Hall, Higher Rd,Fremington EX31 3BG. Social and Activities every Friday 1100 - 1300, Stroke survivors and carers very welcome. Lundy Art Group 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 North Devon Model Society: 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/ Old Skool R/C - the meeting for racing R/C cars indoors, Every Tuesday from 6.30pm at Fremington Parish Hall. (part of North Devon Model Society) North Devon Rogues - the meeting for War gaming and War hammer games Every Tuesday from 6.30pm Fremington Parish Hall. (part of North Devon Model Society) Community Cre8tives CIC Tuesdays 10am- 12:30pm at the Pollyfield Community Centre , Bideford. Contact 07386 893638 Thursday Fellowship— 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.
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Northam
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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 Tues Weds Thurs Fri Sat
closed 10am - 1pm 2pm - 5pm 10am - 12pm closed 10am - 12pm
Bideford
01237 476075
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri Weds Sat Sunday
9:30am - 6pm Closed 9.30am - 1:30pm Closed
Chemists Bideford Lloyds Pharmacy Clarence Wharf Bideford Pharmacy Abbotsham Rd Asda Chemist Affinity, Bideford
01237 421221 01237 472002 01237 427720
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 Butchers Row and Market Place shops Open Tuesday – Saturday
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Barnstaple Wednesday Tues, Thurs, Fri & Sat
Antiques & General Market Produce & General Market
Torrington Friday & Sat 09.00 —15.00
General Market
Northam
01237 475111
Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sunday
10am - 1pm closed 10am - 6pm closed 10am - 5pm 10am - 1pm Closed
Torrington
01805 622107
Mon Tues Weds Thurs Fri, Sat Sunday
10am - 1pm 10am - 6pm Closed 10am - 5pm 10am - 1pm Closed
Northam Boots the Chemist Bay View Rd Torrington Lloyds Pharmacy, High St Westward Ho! Arnolds Pharmacy
01237 474340
01805 622174
01237 473829
Post Office Opening Times Instow Sub Post Office 01271 861417 Mon - Fri: 11.00 – 14.00 Sat: 12.00 —14.00
Northam 01237 424807 Mon - Tues Wednesday Thurs – Fri Sat
07.30 - 17.30 09.00 - 17.30 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
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Young woman’s eye test helps to save her whole family from potential life-threatening heart issues A BIDEFORD optician has been praised for potentially saving the lives of generations in a family after he spotted symptoms of a genetic condition during a routine contact lens check-up. Neil Millen, a director at the locally owned and run Specsavers Bideford store, was examining Hanna Ganderton’s vision when he spotted a grey ring in each of her eyes. The rings are a sign of arcus juvenilis, which can affect people aged 40 or under, often signaling high cholesterol. Neil explained the condition to Hanna and suggested she had a hospital examination and a blood test to assess the cardiovascular risks. The tests showed that Hanna has familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic disorder that affects 1 in 250 people, often causing severely high cholesterol levels and leading to early-onset cardiovascular disease. Hanna, who is 21 and recently received her degree in neuroscience from the University of Exeter, says: ‘I hadn’t expected to have Neil’s diagnosis because I don’t fit the usual lifestyle factors associated with high cholesterol, but I got myself tested as a result and he was right. ‘My cholesterol levels were very elevated, so I then had a blood test to see if my condition was familial, and it was. ‘Having this diagnosis at such a young age wasn’t what I wanted, but it’s fantastic that Neil was able to see the signs of it early in my life. ‘I wouldn’t have had my cholesterol tested at my age were it not for having my eyes checked. I’m now on statins to lower my cholesterol.’ Hanna is aiming to study for a PhD in genetics, so she had a personal and professional interest in the condition’s hereditary effects. She adds: ‘Because familial hypercholesterolemia is genetic, my father, who has raised cholesterol, was also put on statins, but both my parents and two brothers will now need to be tested for the condition.
Neil Millen and Hanna Ganderton 34
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‘I didn’t know something like this could be diagnosed by looking at the eye. It’s amazing. I would certainly urge people to keep up with their regular eye checks. ‘There is so much more to an eye test than simply checking your vision – it can potentially lead to a diagnosis that couldn’t be spotted so early otherwise. ‘I’m so grateful to Neil for his skill, professionalism and caring treatment. He’s changed my life and potentially saved it.’ Hanna’s mother, Dr Maria Ganderton, who works at the University of Plymouth, was equally full of praise for Neil. She says: ‘I said a big thank you to Neil for literally saving Hanna’s life, and his diagnosis has also had a wider impact on other family members, because we will have to have more tests to see which family line the faulty gene comes down through. ‘Neil has potentially saved a whole family – and maybe the next generations of Gandertons – by spotting the arcus juvenilis in Hanna’s eye, and we are so grateful.’ In addition to being a director and contact lens optician at Specsavers Bideford, Neil works at the University of Plymouth’s Centre For Eyecare Excellence. He says: ‘I’m really happy to have been able to help Hanna. Positive outcomes such as this are the highlight of what we do. It’s wonderful to know the positive impact my diagnosis has had on her long-term health and that of her family. ‘She’s absolutely right when she says that keeping up with routine eye tests means that optometrists can pick up signs of conditions at an early stage and then refer the person for treatment. The earlier these things are found, the better. ‘I hope that stories like Hanna’s can encourage others to maintain their regular eye health checks – because not everyone realises that the sight test is more than just whether you need glasses or not.’ Specsavers Bideford, in the town’s High Street, is open seven days a week. For further information contact 01237 420042.
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01237-721973 07946 850949 www.northdevondecorator.co.uk
01237 421749 Adrian — 07970 927 909 Adam — 07554 498 808 Over 30 Years experience in UPVC Your Original Repair Man 38
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