Bideford
Bideford is a traditional port town that's on the estuary of the River Torridge in North Devon, located in the southwest of England. The town's name means 'by the ford', with records demonstrating that prior to the construction of a bridge, there was a ford at Bideford where the River Torridge is estuarine. During low tide, it's possible, though not always safe, to wade across the river. Bideford presently is the main town of the Torridge local government district. As recorded in the 2011 Census, the town has a population of around 17,107. Bideford is broadly famous for being the place through which the American GIs landed in 1942 during the Second World War. Initially located there to work in radar stations in North Devon, rising numbers of troops came over during the war. Bideford is renowned for its New Year's Eve celebrations. This involves thousands of people from neighbouring towns and villages arriving in fancy dress outfits congregating on the quay for entertainment and a firework display. The event includes several local bands. The town has a very long heritage of local New Year's Eve celebrations. A custom from 1605 was for inhabitants to try to cross Bideford's bridge within the time taken for the bells of St. Mary's parish church to chime at midnight. In the same year, the mayor established a trust fund to raise money to purchase food for the poor and elderly who applied at the Mayor's Parlour. This remains in place and is on New Year's Day. For all your property upgrades, be sure that you employ reputable professionals in Bideford to ensure that you get a top quality service.
