We just thought we we’re making some pretty pictures of Bideford to welcome visitors into the town; but our designs on the lamppost banners have caused a little controversy. This appeared in the North Devon Journal on 25th August under the heading:-

Anger over ‘misleading’ ship poster

A BIDEFORD resident believes tourists are being misled by new banners put up to brighten up the town.
Retired engineer, Tony Smith, is unhappy the Kathleen & May is featured on so many of the new banners up on lampposts along Heywood Road and Kingsley Road.
The 110-year-old schooner left her Westcountry Bideford berth in mid-May.
Her owner, Steve Clarke, said she is unlikely to return after he had been unable to secure a permanent dock for her.
Mr Smith, who has lived in Bideford for 22 years, said:

“The majority of people I have spoken to are extremely annoyed she was allowed to escape and now they are boasting she is still here….”It is misleading, particularly to tourists and adds insult to injury.”

Artists from the Bideford Bay Creatives group designed more than 30 banners.
Residents were given the opportunity to vote for their favourite six to be displayed in March – months before it was known the historic schooner was leaving the Torridge.
The project was initiated by Torridge District Council, Bideford Town Council and the Joint Delivery Team within North Devon+.
The banners will be displayed until the end of September and reappear next spring for the new tourist season.

At least it’s encouraging discourse and engagement with the subject!