Bideford Probus Club was inaugurated on 29th September 1971 when 17 prospective members attended a meeting at Tanton's Hotel, Bideford. It was convened by Mr Cyril Braund, and sponsored by Bideford Rotary Club, whose chairman, a group of local retired men.

Since then the club has prospered, and meets twice a month, on the second and fourth Wednesdays at 10am for 10.40am, in the Royal Hotel, Bideford, when we have coffee and a speaker. The speaker is sometimes a member of the club, but usually from outside, and the subjects have varied immensely, from Hawking, to Search & Rescue Services, to a study of Cervantes' Don Quixote.

Our current membership is 45, and the attendance at meetings varies from 26 to 35, drawn from villages in North Devon. We have quarterly meetings with ladies, and visitors are always welcome. Our programme includes various club lunches, occasional outings and theatre trips, and an annual Chinese meal.

The club has good fellowship and a welcoming atmosphere, and provides friendship and company for older men who have retired from the professions or business. We also welcome men who are on holiday in this area, or who have a second home here. Please contact the secretary, Paul Smith, with any queries. (01237 423513; Fatherpaulsmith@aol.com)