Bideford is a traditional port town that's on the estuary of the River Torridge in North Devon, situated in the southwest of England. The town's name translates as 'by the ford', with evidence demonstrating that before the construction of a bridge, there was a ford at Bideford where the River Torridge is estuarine. During times of low tide, it is achievable, though not advisable, to cross the river by walking on foot. Bideford currently functions as the main town of the Torridge local government district. As recorded in the 2011 Census, the town contains a population of approximately 17,000. Bideford is broadly known as the place during which the American GIs landed in 1942 during the Second World War. Originally positioned there to work in radar stations in North Devon, increasing numbers of troops landed in Bideford over the war. Bideford is well known for its New Year's Eve celebrations. This involves thousands of people from the nearby towns and villages arriving in fancy dress outfits congregating on the quay for entertainment along with a firework display. Included in the event are many local musical acts. The town has a long history of communal New Year's Eve celebrations. A custom from 1605 was for citizens to try to run across Bideford's bridge within the time taken for the bells of St. Mary's parish church to chime at midnight. During 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 still happens and is on New Year's Day. For all your home improvement tasks, ensure that you choose vetted specialists in Bideford to make sure that you get a fantastic quality service.