IN anticipation of the visit of the Prince of Wales to Princetown, I have been considering the role of Prince Charles, the role Bolt's Stores played in the local community and for miles around — and the future role of the new craft centre which has taken the place of 'our' property.
As you may be aware, the motto of the Prince of Wales is 'Ich Dien' — 'I Serve' and of course there is the crest of true ostrich feathers — the plume of feathers, which can be seen more than once in Princetown — The Plume of Feathers Hotel etc.
Thinking along those lines, and in particular the motto 'I Serve' the role of Bolt's stores was to 'serve' the local community and all the outlying areas for miles around, providing a delivery service in all winds and weathers.
My grandfather Albert Bolt was responsible for building the family home 'Stonycliff' and the stores attached. Unfortunately he died aged 46 and my grandmother was left with a large family and a shop to run, which was no small task. Her main concern was not to make money but to serve the community she loved.
Thus it is that up in the church yard at Princetown, right near the door of the church, the headstone can be found for both Albert and Mary Bolt — and underneath are the words 'loved by all', which she was.
Incidentally, her brother, Sir Henry Duke, became Lord Merrivale because of his connections with the Merrivale Quarry and his great love of the area.
Still thinking about the motto, 'I Serve', I just wonder whether this new craft centre will do a lot to 'serve' the local community?
I sincerely hope so — we shall see! Time will tell.
Margery Ousley
Laurel Avenue
Bideford