Bideford
Bideford is a traditional port town on the estuary of the River Torridge in North Devon, in the southwest of England. The town's name translates as 'by the ford', with documents showing that prior to the creation of a bridge, there was a ford at Bideford where the River Torridge is estuarine. During periods of low tide, it is possible, though not advisable, to cross the river by walking on foot. Bideford presently functions as the main town of the Torridge local government district. As per the 2011 Census, the town has a population of approximately 17,107. Bideford is widely known as the place where the American GIs arrived in 1942 during WW2. Originally located there to work in radar stations across North Devon, growing numbers of troops came over throughout 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 costumes congregating on the quay for entertainment in addition to a firework show. The event includes various local musicians. The town has a extensive record of local New Year's Eve celebrations. A custom from 1605 was for citizens to attempt to run across the bridge in the time taken for the bells of St. Mary's church to chime at midnight. During the same year, the mayor established a trust fund to raise money to purchase food items for the poor and elderly who applied at the Mayor's Parlour. This still exists and takes place on New Year's Day. For all of your property improvement jobs, make sure that you select reliable specialists in Bideford to make sure you get the best quality service.
