Paul Bidmead ‘will be missed’

A Littleham man, who was well known throughout the village and across Exmouth, has died.

Paul Bidmead, 62, was the son of Ray and Joyce Bidmead – former licensees of the Clinton Arms, after whom Bidmead Close and the Bidmead Community Centre are named.

Paul was perhaps best known through his association with the Clinton, having worked there for 43 years, starting when he was 16, and only stopping in 2009.

During that time he had a spell as landlord, but decided to give that up when his mother died in 1979, concentrating on his role as a civil engineer for Devon County Council.

Paul was involved in several community groups, and among his roles were chairman of Exmouth Euchre league, committee member of Exmouth Darts League, treasurer of Clinton Social Club and treasurer of Littleham in Bloom.

As a sports fan, Paul had a keen interest in Manchester United – he was a regular visitor to Old Trafford – Exeter Speedway, and horse racing, being part owner of a racehorse.

He was also a big supporter of the charity Hearing Dogs for the Deaf, raising a lot of money for them, and had a love of music.

His funeral at Littleham Parish Church – where his grandfather Bill Pascoe was formerly verger - was attended by more than 200 people, and Paul has been laid to rest alongside his parents.

Josh Pidgeon, whose family now run the Clinton Arms, said Paul would be missed by everyone who knew him, across Littleham and Exmouth.

Donations in Paul’s memory for Hearing Dogs for the Deaf can be sent to Richard W Gegg and Sons Funeral Directors, 47 Rolle Street, Exmouth, EX8 2RS.