Bideford Retold

Imagine uncovering stories that have been hidden away for generations and transforming them into music, podcasts, digital experiences and interactive art? That's the ambition of Bideford Retold, a new 12-month project from Libraries Unlimited and dBs Pro that will empower young people to rediscover Bideford's heritage and reimagine it for today. 

Made possible thanks to funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the project will breathe new life into the remarkable Chope Collection at Bideford Library, a regionally significant archive of around 500 books bequeathed to the people of Bideford by local historian and folklorist Richard Pearse Chope. Packed with local history, folklore, myths and legends, the collection offers a fascinating glimpse into North Devon's past, yet much of it remains largely unknown. 

Stuart McLeod, Director of England, London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said:  

"Heritage comes alive when people can connect with it in meaningful and creative ways. Bideford Retold is a fantastic example of how money raised by National Lottery players is helping communities uncover and celebrate their local stories while inspiring the next generation. The project will open up new ways to explore Bideford's heritage and ensure these fascinating stories can be discovered, shared and enjoyed by many more people for years to come." 

Over the next year, young people aged 14–21 will work alongside creative professionals, artists, historians and technologists to explore the collection and uncover the stories that resonate with them. Together, they will transform these discoveries into new creative work, including podcasts, music, artwork and digital media, helping local heritage reach new audiences in exciting and unexpected ways. 

Working with dBs Pro, the creative studio of dBs Institute, the project will also develop an immersive interactive experience within Bideford Library. Using creative technology, visitors will be able to discover the Chope Collection in new ways, moving beyond the page to experience Bideford's history through sound, storytelling and digital interpretation. 

Alongside developing creative skills, participants will gain hands-on experience with recording equipment, digital production and collaborative projects, while working with professional artists, musicians, writers, historians, podcast producers and creative technologists. Throughout the project, young people will help shape its direction through a dedicated Youth Advisory Board, ensuring their voices are at the heart of every stage. 

Bideford Retold is delivered in partnership with dBs Pro, Space Youth Services, Bideford College and the University of Plymouth, with additional support from The Bideford Bridge Trust. Together, the partners aim to strengthen connections between young people, their local heritage and the creative industries, while exploring new ways libraries can inspire the next generation. 

Beyond the project itself, Bideford Retold will leave a lasting legacy. The Chope Collection will be relaunched as a vibrant community resource, supported by new interpretation and interactive content that will continue to engage visitors long after the project ends. The learning from Bideford Retold will also help shape future youth engagement projects across Libraries Unlimited's network of 54 libraries in Devon and Torbay.