Dear Members,

Firstly, thank you to those of you who came along to the AGM last month – it was a great turnout and so good to see you. 

At the AGM, Jane Maynard who was our President decided to stand down due to work commitments – she did this with a heavy heart as the Chamber has been dear to her for many years.  Also, our Treasurer stood down.  Luckily, we have two Vice Presidents and one of them, John Puddy has kindly stepped in as Acting President for the time being.  But currently, we are without a Treasurer, so do bear with us while we get our “ducks in order”. 

We are rapidly approaching the festive period and see that a lot of businesses have already started decorating their windows in readiness.  Before long the Christmas Lights will be on and we will be in full swing with the Town buzzing with shoppers. 

The Executive Committee is meeting and looking at the future role of the Chamber and what it can deliver, and it would seem from your responses to surveys that networking, social media presence, advice and information are the key factors.  This is what the Chamber will strive to do, now that life is returning to some sort of normality.  There will always be the need for caution though, so venues for events will need to be carefully sourced.  The Pandemic has hit Chamber quite hard, being that it is very much an in-person organisation, but we hope to bounce back and be the support should you need us.

Some good news just in – there are several free parking days in the Town Centre leading up to Christmas, these will be in Bridge Street, The Quay, The Manor and the Pill (unless otherwise indicated).

Saturday 27th November 10 am – 6pm – Sponsored by Bideford Town Council

Saturday 4th December           All Day – Small Business Day sponsored by Torridge District Council

Sunday 5th December             10am – 6pm –  Bridge Street, The Pill – Sponsored by Bideford Town Council.  This is Christmas Lights Switch On and road closures will be in place.

Saturday 11th December         10am – 6pm  –  Sponsored by Bideford Town Council

Saturday 18th December         10am – 6pm   – Sponsored by Bideford Town Council

Until the next time –