If you go back 20/30 years Bideford was highly rated for it’s New Years Eve celebrations. Both locals and people from afar came out dressed up in fancy dress in the thousands, and a good time was had by all.
Fast forward to New Years Eve 2024 and there was barely a sole in sight on Bideford Quay, to see the new year in. It was such sadness to see.
Councillor Linda Hellyer posted a video on Facebook with the following message:
Happy New Year
It was lovely to see the bagpipes being played in Bideford to see in the New Year. I was out as part of a Street Pastor patrol, and with only a couple of exceptions , there was no trouble and the evening passed without incident. The door Marshalls were doing a great job, as were the Police and Street Marshalls. Some people had bought their own fireworks- sparklers, and the pretty ones that don’t make a noise. Overall, it looked as if a good time was had by all.
Posted by Councillor Linda Hellyer on Wednesday 1 January 2025
The councillor’s post made it sound like half the country was spread across Bideford Quay, when in reality you can barely see 20 people in the video she posted.
Bideford New Years Eve 2024
It is a very sorrowing sight and begs the question what has happened to Bideford? It used to have music and fireworks and a real party atmosphere for all ages.
Since the 1990’s the numbers have of revellers has been declining year on year. 2024’s new years eve celebrations has hit an all time low. This could be due to the weather warning that was put in place by the MET Office.
At this time of year you would never have seen vehicles driving along the Quay, it was filled with party goers.
Bideford locals react
On the post made by the Councillor, many Bideford residents jumped in the comments section, below are some of the comments left:
Sickening to what Bideford use’t to be like (Danny)
Such a shame,Bideford was so good on nye (Jenny)
Heartbreaking to see the streets empty on NYE… where did it all go so wrong! (Steph)
Wow what a difference to years gone by! No wonder there was no trouble.. there’s no one in town!!! (Stephen).
Was you on Bideford Quay on New Years Eve 2024? What was your experience?
It was a sad site to witness. There was also a run across the bridge from East-the-Water to the Quay, like back in the day. However, I believe there was only 7 people that participated.