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What’s On Cineworld Tickets Competition Crossword Pet Health Garden Tips Bedford Rugby Club Bedford Eagles Classifieds Volunteering Opportunities
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January booking deadline 10th December 2018 Don’t forget to check out our website www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk for even more local articles and lots of interesting and helpful local information under the YOUR TOWN tab! LIKE our Facebook page BedsLife Magazine to keep up to date with events, offers and local businesses and services. FOLLOW us on @bedslife_magazine and @bedsLife
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November Issue Competition Winners: Cineworld Tickets – Anne M Davies, Bedford Crossword – Susan Stretton, Bromham
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COMMUNITY
COUNCIL FLU VACCINE FOR CHILDREN Parents in Bedford Borough are being urged to get their children vaccinated against seasonal flu. From the age of two, the vaccine is given as a simple spray into the nose which is quick and painless. It is offered in this form because it provides good overall protection for children against the flu virus, has a good safety record, and is easier to administer than injected vaccines. Children should be vaccinated every year to ensure they are protected, as the flu virus can change each year. Children who are eligible for the flu vaccine as a nasal spray, include: Children aged two and three (and four year olds provided they were three on the 31 August 2018). Children in reception and school years 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. Children up to the age of 17 with a long term health condition. The flu vaccine does not give you the flu but some people may experience minor symptoms afterwards, as with other vaccines.
CARBON EMISSIONS REDUCED BY OVER HALF
news EXHIBITION CELEBRATING POLISH INDEPENDENCE AT THE HIGGINS BEDFORD 11th November 2018 – 11th November 2019: Celebrating 100 Years of Polish Independence – An Exhibition of Polish Heritage in Bedford – FREE To commemorate the 100th anniversary of Polish Independence, established after the First World War, The Higgins Bedford presents an exhibition celebrating and exploring the shared stories of Bedford’s Polish community. The exhibition includes a film featuring ‘history keepers’ – young people from the Polish community who have been trained to interview parents, grandparents and older people about their experiences of migration, early lives in Poland and journeys to Bedford. The Higgins Bedford has worked in collaboration with the Polish British Integration Centre (PBIC) and the Heritage Lottery Fund to launch the MYID Project, which has provided training workshops for young people to collect and showcase the stories, artefacts, and photographs presented in this exhibition.
In 2011 Bedford Borough Council set a target of reducing carbon by 40% but the Council has gone even further and hit a 53% reduction in carbon emissions since 2009/10. Works across the Council’s buildings have included lighting upgrades, installation of solar panels, and Borough Hall has been converted from oil fired boilers to a biomass boiler. Further projects delivered by the Council have seen improved lighting installed at a number of the car parks including Lurke Street, Queen Street and River Street which have already seen huge savings; with a 50% saving in just one year at Queen Street. 4
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Celebrate in Bedford Borough this year by supporting your local markets, shops, restaurants and events! #BedfordXmas
www.ChristmasInBedford.co.uk
MP COLUMN
m o r f s VAieL Iw T, S T A I R B ULRM P. . . OCA YO U R L
BUYING LOCAL For the last few weeks I expect many of you have been planning and preparing for the festive season by buying gifts and food to be shared with your loved ones. This is a particularly busy time of year for our high streets and local independent traders, highlighting what a crucial part of our community they are. However, our buying habits are changing, with more people than ever sourcing and purchasing goods online. So it is vital that we support our local shops and town centres, not only at Christmas but also throughout the year. I am delighted that in the recent Budget the Government announced further assistance through ‘Our Plan for the High Street’. The Plan supports high streets and town centres to evolve as consumer behaviour changes and some key measures include: • cutting business rates by a third for up to 90% of retail properties, including pubs, restaurants and cafes; • creating a £675m Future High Streets Fund to help local areas make their high streets and town centres evolve, ensuring they are fit for the future. The Fund will also establish a new High Streets Taskforce which will provide hands-on support to local areas and share best practice; • strengthening the community assets on our high streets. This includes restoring historic buildings, helping community groups use empty properties, providing 100% business
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rates relief for public toilets and continuing the business rates discount for local newspaper offices; • piloting registers of empty shops with local authorities to help businesses take up empty properties; • consulting on modernising planning rules to ensure they support the transformation of the high street. ‘Our Plan for the High Street’ builds on a number of measures and initiatives which the Government is already involved in such as the Future High Streets Forum. This works with leaders across retail, property and business to support and champion local high streets, and develop new solutions. The forum is behind the Great British High Street Awards which recognise the progress high streets are making, along with the diversity and services they provide to their local community. The most well-known initiative is Small Business Saturday. This takes place every year on the first weekend of December, encouraging customers to find and use their local businesses. It also provides support for small business owners from bigger businesses, local authorities, and organisations like trade bodies and business networks. I’m looking forward to visiting some small businesses in North East Bedfordshire on 1 December and hope that you will also take the opportunity of ‘buying local’.
Rt Hon Alistair Burt MP
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CHARITY
Men in sheds BEDFORD
Men in Sheds Bedford was formed in July 2012 as a not-forprofit association with charitable purposes and then became a registered charity with the Charity Commission (1174339).
Our aim is to keep men active and healthy by getting them out of the house and meeting people, making friends and having fun working with others in pursuing their hobbies and practical interests. You can share skills, learn new ones, and help with community-based projects. We also arrange several days out, visits, and social events. Although primarily organised around practical skills, the shed is open to everyone. The Men in Shed movement, which began in Australia, is aimed at more mature men – but everyone is welcome. We do have younger members and several ladies who attend. We meet in the Annex at the Bedford Arts and Craft Centre, Ampthill Road (off Althorpe Street), Bedford MK42 9HE (the entrance to the Art and Craft Centre is nearly opposite to the Bedford Hospital A&E
entrance). We are open every day of the week, but we recommend visiting us on Mondays between 10:00 and 13:00 as this is a quiet session where machines are not in use. We are always looking to involve more people, gain members, and develop our activities. We have received support from Age UK Bedfordshire and the Community and Voluntary Service (CVS) Bedfordshire; Age UK Bedfordshire kindly provided us with pumppriming funding to help us get onto a sound footing. Mondays 10 – 1pm Tea, Coffee and hand tools. A great time to come and meet us for the first time. 2 – 4pm Computer Training sessions *
Tuesdays 10 – 1pm Full on Machine excitement with power tools. 2 – 4pm Woodwork training sessions* Wednesdays 10 – 1pm Full on Machine excitement with power tools. Thursdays 10 – 1pm Full on Machine excitement with power tools. 2 – 4pm 121 help for people with disabilities to work on a project e.g. bird box or phone stand with an instructor* Fridays 1.30 – 3 Model Railways * Not every week, please check first We look forward to seeing you!
For more info contact the Secretary sc@steveconway.net 07805 775828 or for a chat call Dave on 07716 180784 www.meninshedsbedford.org.uk
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Get a box, wrap it, fill it and make a difference to the lives of local people in crisis this Christmas.
For a number of years, All Nations Church have been privileged to provide local people in crisis with food hampers at Christmas. For 2018 we’re building on the success of last year’s Christmas In A Box where we distributed over 700 boxes, reaching over 1,600 people in Bedford. Locally Bedford foodbank is seeing an increasing number of clients on a regular basis. Here at All Nations Church, we want to further support the foodbank’s work, help their clients and other vulnerable people during this festive season. To do this we need your help. There are a number of ways you can be involved: • You can purchase items on the shopping list on our website and donate them in an opened box wrapped in Christmas wrapping paper.
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• Buy one or two items from the list and donate them to Christmas In A Box and we will make up a box for you. • Donate the cost of a box, £30 for a large family or £20 for a small family. We will then purchase the contents on your behalf and make the box up. If you would like to give via electronic payment, you can find details online. If you choose to get a box, and fill it, or even donate a few items to the project, please return them to All Nations Church on: Sunday 9th December 3.00pm – 6.00pm Or Tuesday 11th December 4.00pm – 6.00pm. For more information and other ways to get involved visit our website or email christmasinabox@allnationsbedford.org www.allnationsbedford.org/christmasinabox
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Book Now For 2019 To Avoid Disappointment Tel 01234 962929 / 07827 015170
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ChristmasEvents MADE IN BEDFORD’S ARTISAN FAIR CHRISTMAS Sunday 2nd December 10 – 4pm FREE Bedford’s best local artists, craftspeople and producers will be showcasing their work so this is an ideal opportunity to buy unique cards, gifts and decorations. Locally ground coffee, homemade mince pies & cake plus a range of locally made food including vegan street food. Activities, craft workshops and demonstrations. Festive cheer will be supplied by our amazing homemade mulled wine and local carol singers and musicians. Bedford Corn Exchange & Harpur Suite, Bedford THEATRE TOURS INTERNATIONAL PRESENT ‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’ BY CHARLES DICKENS Saturday 8th December at 7:30pm An enchanting performance that will dazzle and linger long in the memory. Guaranteed to get you into the Christmas Spirit – in many more ways than one! Tickets £12.00, concessions £10.00 and £9.00 Tel 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk The Place Theatre, Bradgate Rd, Bedford MK40 3DE CAROLS AT THE PARK Sun 9th Dec 2:30pm – 4:30pm Join us from 2.30pm for warming soup, Mulled Wine and mince pies, as well as all our usual drinks and snacks ahead of open air carols and readings at 3.30pm. Pavilion At The Park, Bedford Park, Bedford Tel 01234 351104
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JAZZ AT THE MOVIES: A SWINGING CHRISTMAS Friday 14th December 7.30pm Fronted by acclaimed singer Joanna Eden and featuring the groovy sounds of the Chris Ingham Quartet, Jazz At The Movies: A Swinging Christmas gathers jazzy festive favourites as made famous by Ella, Eartha, Frank, Doris, Dean, Bing and a whole gang of cool celluloid cats and hip Hollywood chicks. Tickets £16.00 (£14.00 concessions) Tel 01234 362337 / 01234 362269 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk Quarry Theatre at St Luke’s, St Peter’s Street, Bedford MK40 2NN
VEGAN CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL (HOSTED BY VIRTUOSO FOODS) Saturday 15th December 10am – 4pm FREE Delicious foods and drinks; cosmetics and supplements; useful, natural & toxic free products, relaxing massages & therapies plus a room dedicated entirely to nurturing your body, soul & mind with specialised classes(yoga, meditation & sound therapy) as well as informative talks. John Bunyan Museum Mill St, Bedford MK40 3EU SANTA IN LOVE Sunday 16th December 1.30pm A magical fun filled Christmas show with songs and lots of interaction followed by a meet and greet with Santa that includes free parents for the children and photo opportunities! Tickets £10.00 (£9.00 Concessions) Tel 01234 362337 / 01234 362269 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk Quarry Theatre at St Luke’s, St Peter’s Street, Bedford MK40 2NN
SANTA’S CHRISTMAS PARTY Thursday 20th December 1pm & 4pm Christmas is the busiest time of the year at the North Pole, when Father Christmas makes presents to deliver across the whole world… and when everyone gets ready for Santa’s Christmas Party! But this year somebody has been up to mischief… Dotty the Elf’s decorations have gone missing, Dasher the Reindeer’s party games are broken, and what has happened to Pompom the Penguin’s Christmas music. Tickets £10.50 Adults £9.50 Children from the Box Office, Harpur Suite, Harpur Square, Bedford MK40 1LE or online at www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SL ALADDIN Saturday 22nd December 2018 – 1st January 2019 Aladdin is brought to you by the award-winning Bedford Pantomime Company, who once again wave their magic wand to bring you traditional, family panto at its best. Tickets Adult £18.00, Child £12.00, Family (2 Adults 2 Children or 1 Adult 3 Children) £48.00 Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SL
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SERVICES
Reassurance when you need it most
Neville Funeral Service
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Philharmonia Chamber Players
THE FESTIVAL CONCERT ON FRIDAY 7TH DECEMBER
AT 7.30PM
ST PAUL’S CHURCH
Come along to our Come along to our
ST PAUL’S SQUARE, BEDFORD MK40 2SQ
TICKETS £16
INCLUDES MULLED WINE & A MINCE PIE
The Philharmonia Chamber Players are a unique feature of the Philharmonia Orchestra.
It showcases a rich variety of repertoire for smaller ensemble formed from within the Orchestra.
The six string players will delight the Christmas Tree Festival Concert audience with a performance of the Brahms String Sextet No.2 in G major op.36, followed by a selection from Piazzola, Gershwin and Cole Porter.
Christmas Market Market Christmas Saturday 1 December st
Saturday 1st December 10am-12pm 10am-12pm Willington Village Hall, Church Road, MK44 3PY
Willington Village Hall, Church Road, MK44 3PY
Seasonal and local produce Homemade cakes preserves Seasonal and localand produce Wreathes and wreath making Homemade cakes and preserves Southalls butchers Wreathes and wreath making Crafts and handmade Southalls butchers gifts Bacon sandwiches, coffee & cake Crafts and handmade gifts Bacon sandwiches, coffee & cake
Bedford Hospitals Charity
St Paul’s Church BEDFORD
More information: 01234 783181 01234 340163
St Paul’s Church
www.bedfordhospitalcharity.org.uk www.stpaulschurchbedford.org.uk
For more info contact Emma on 07905 281629 or hello@willingtonvillagemarket.co.uk
For more info contact Emma on 07905 281629 or hello@willingtonvillagemarket.co.uk
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Santa R U N Join Keech Hospice’s festive fun run and make a real difference this Christmas Seriously ill children have benefitted from almost 3,000 hours of nursing care in the last 10 years thanks to the people of Bedford taking part in the town’s most festive fun run. Since Keech Hospice Care’s annual Santa Run began in Bedford 10 years ago, the event has raised an incredible £107,000 – the equivalent of 2,826 hours of nursing care on the charity’s in-patient units. Events like the hospice’s Santa Run help to pay for the care of children like three-yearold Alex Morris from Wixams, who has a heart abnormality and a serious condition which affects breathing and his ability to eat properly. “Keech has been a lifesaver for us this past year. We really struggled last winter to find safe and child-friendly environments which limited the risk of Alex picking up a bug. Going to the stayand-play group each week has been amazing, and we will always be eternally grateful to the staff and volunteers that make Keech such a nice place to go,” said mum Susan.
The Russell family from Bedford has made the hospice’s annual festive fun run their tradition as their little boy Harry was cared for by the charity until he died at just three years-old in November 2015. “Keech Hospice Care’s Santa Run is amazing and it’s now something we do every Christmas. Keech cared for Harry and helped us to make so many memories before he died and they’re still supporting us now. It’s going to be great fun walking, jogging and running along Bedford’s Embankment surrounded by so many ‘Santas’ raising awareness and money for such a brilliant charity. We can’t wait to do it again,” said mum Julie. Kick-start the countdown to Christmas by signing up for Keech Hospice Care’s 5km Santa Run at www.keech.org.uk/santarun or call 01582 707940. Entry is just £15 for adults and includes a Santa costume to keep, finisher’s medal and gift. Under 16s cost £5, which includes festive headwear, and family entry for two adults and three children is £40.
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Wednesday 5 to Sunday 9 December 2018
St Paul’s Church . St Paul’s Square . Bedford MK40 1SQ
Christm s tree Al Fes tiv 5 to 9 December 2018 ST PAUL’S CHURCH ST PAUL’S SQUARE, BEDFORD MK40 1SQ Wednesday 5th to 10.00am Saturday 8th December - 5.00pm Sunday 9th December
12noon - 4.00pm
LOVE IT. WEAR IT. SHARE IT.
Stunning Ranges
BEAUTIFUL RANGE OF JEWELLERY, CLOTHES, BAGS & ACCESSORIES
Admission: £2.50 Children under 16 free entry Daily Concerts by Community Groups ‘Philharmonia Chamber Players’ Concert Charity no. 299250
St Paul’s Church BEDFORD
Charity no. 113461
Friday 7th December at 7.30pm
T: 07429 136815
Photography Competition More information: 01234 340163
www.bedfordhospitalcharity.org.uk www.stpaulschurchbedford.org.uk Like us on
Bedford Christmas Tree Festival
Host a Style Session & enjoy reward gifts Join us as a Stylist & Earn extra money
Shop Online for Christmas Gifts
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CLOSING DOWN SALE FINAL WEEKS - CLOSING 15TH DECEMBER
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BOOK
review The Bedlam Stacks by Natasha Pulley
This slow-burner is in no rush to reach its conclusion and indulges in the world of 19th century Peru. Pulley skilfully mixes facts and historical fiction with fantasy as the novel turns in a way that you don’t expect. It is 1859 and Merrick Tremayne is asked to undertake an expedition to Peru by the East India Company. As an ex-opium smuggler, and a gardener, they want him to supervise the search for cinchona trees. The bark of these trees produces quinine, a much sought-after treatment for malaria. Despite knowing that it’s a suicide mission, since others have tried and failed, he agrees to go to get away from his miserable life. Once in Peru he travels to a mysterious village, given the name Bedlam Stacks. Three large pillars of rock rise into the sky with homes and shops built on to the sides of them. And this is where fact (the expedition did take place, led by Clement Markham, who accompanies the fictitious Merrick) and historical fiction meets fantasy and you realise that the novel is not going where you thought it might. A line of salt that no one can cross, statues that move, and a priest with knowledge far beyond his years. What will Merrick discover, and will it ultimately be more valuable to him than the precious quinine?
By Willow Coby 24
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Bad Times At The El Royale is one of the best movies you will see this year, especially if you are a big Tarantino fan. It is a crime movie full of twists, turns and surprises that borrows the vibe of a Quentin movie but without the rat-a-tat quickfire dialogue that symbolises the Tarantino style. As much as I love the Tarantino dialogue El Royale benefits from not having the same dialogue heavy nature. It follows a number of different people who all arrive at the El Royale (a motel that straddles two states) at the same time, all of whom have their own secrets and all of whom are in for a night of revelations and shocks. El Royale is a violent crime thriller but it is blessed with a terrific story, a bunch of fantastic characters and some top quality acting. The writing though is what makes this so good, it continually keeps you off balance, spinning in an unexpected direction, and never lets you get bored even though it has a long running time. If you like crime thrillers then this is definitely the film for you!
Simon White 25
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as m st Chri Church SERVICES
GOLDINGTON CHURCHES TOGETHER CHRISTMAS SERVICES PRIORY METHODIST CHURCH, NEWNHAM AVENUE BEDFORD MK41 9QJ Sunday 16th December 10.30 am Nativity Service Sunday 23rd December 6.30 pm Carols by Candlelight Monday 24th December 4 pm Christingle Service Christmas Day 10.30 am Christmas Day Celebration ST MARY’S C OF E CHURCH, CHURCH LANE, BEDFORD MK41 0AP Sunday 16th December 9.30 am Family Communion 6 pm Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols
UNIVERSITY OF BEDFORDSHIRE (BEDFORD CAMPUS) AT ST PAUL’S CHURCH, ST PAUL’S SQUARE, BEDFORD Tuesday 4th December 6.30 pm Carols by Candlelight Everyone welcome HOLY CROSS CATHOLIC CHURCH, GOLDINGTON ROAD, BEDFORD, MK41 0DP Sunday 9th December 4 pm Children’s Advent Carol Service Sunday 16th December 4 pm Carols by Candlelight Saturday 22nd December 6 pm Vigil Mass Sunday 23rd December 9.15 am Mass (followed by refreshments)
Sunday 23rd December 9.30 am Parish Communion
Monday 24th December 6 pm Vigil Youth Mass of Christmas
Monday 24th December 5 pm Children’s Nativity 11.15 pm First Communion of Christmas
Christmas Day 9.15 am Mass
Tuesday 25th December 8 am Holy Communion 9.30 am Parish Communion
SAINTS PHILIP & JAMES CATHOLIC CHURCH (LINKED TO HOLY CROSS CHURCH) 2 SEVERN WAY, BEDFORD MK41 7BX Monday 24th December 9.30 am Mass of Advent 10 pm Mass during the night
Christmas Day 8 am Mass at Dawn 11 am Mass
ST PAULS CHURCH ST PAULS SQUARE BEDFORD MK40 1SQ Sunday 2nd December 5.30pm Advent Carol Service (by candlelight and with full choir) Saturday 8th December 4.00pm Children’s Christingle service Saturday 22nd December 4.00pm Nine Lessons and Carols (by candlelight and full choir) Christmas Eve 3.00pm – Crib Service 10.00pm – The choir sings carols round the tree 11.00pm – Midnight Mass Christmas Day 10.15am – Festival Eucharist ST PETERS CHURCH ST PETERS STREET BEDFORD MK40 2TX Sunday 2nd December 4pm Christingle Service Thursday 20th December 7pm Carols & Nine Lessons Service Christmas Eve 4pm Mayhem in the Manger
(AKA The Nativity for kids big and small, come in fancy dress or Angels & Shepherds) 11.30pm Midnight Mass Christmas Day 10.15am Christmas Day Eucharist BUNYAN MEETING CHURCH MILL STREET MK40 3EU Monday 17th December 2.30pm The ‘Come and Sing’ Community Choir Christmas Concert entitled ‘Music and Mince Pies’. Tuesday 18th December 7.30pm Evening of Christmas Music and Readings in The Basement at Bunyan. The evening will feature some favourite carols and festive prose, mulled-wine and mince pies, all adding to our Christmas celebrations. Wednesday 19th December 1.30pm Lunchtime Prayers & Christmas Carols Christmas Day Morning Worship 10.00am
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What’sON YOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, EVENTS AND LOTS MORE IN YOUR AREA. THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! ARTS & CRAFTS, TALKS & DEMONSTRATIONS Emmaus Village Carlton Monday 3rd December. 6.00pm – 8.30pm Winter Words & Music Evening: Weaving together a range of beautiful music with engaging poetry Tickets are on sale online at: https://bit.ly/2PDs3av Alpine Garden Society, Bedfordshire group Monday December 3rd 7.30 for 8.00pm Liz Livermore will speak about ‘Carl Linnaeus and the Uppsala Botanical gardens’. Plant exhibits, library (members), refreshments. Visitors welcome £3. Wilstead Village Hall, MK45 3BX Bedfordshire Family History Society Friday 7th December 7.15 p.m. “My 50th Great Grandfather” by Norman Holding Drama Hall, Mark Rutherford School Wentworth Drive, Bedford MK41 8PX Members free, visitors £1. Bedford Art Society Meeting Friday 7th December 7.15pm for 7.30pm start Paul Kane is a commission artist from Huntingdon. His art covers many subjects but he will be demonstrating still life in Charcoal and Chalk. Entry is FREE for members, £5 for visitors Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford, MK418EB Contact Jean Paterson 01234 307210 or www.bedsartsociety.co.uk for information A Hertfordshire police officer in Peace and War: Michael Wilcox 1909-2002 Monday 10 December 7.30 pm Illustrated talk by Clive Emsley Emeritus Professor of the Open University and biographer St Peter’s Hall, St Peter’s Church, De Parys Avenue, Bedford MK40 2TX Free to HA members (Historical Association-Bedford). Others welcome with a donation of £3.00 Includes Christmas refreshments. Details 07989 837819/01234 266839
The Wildlife Trust – Bedford Local Group Wednesday 12th December – Meeting at 7-15 pm for 7-30 pm start ‘The Splendour of the Ouse’ – an illustrated talk by Barrie Mason. Plenty of parking available in Church car park. No charge but voluntary contributions are appreciated. Priory Methodist Church Hall, Newnham Avenue Bedford MK41 9QJ Further details available under Events on www.wildlifebcn.org or at 01234 266057 Biddenham Gardeners Association Tuesday 18th December at 7.30pm Our Christmas Party with refreshments. Visitors very welcome. Admission £5 per meeting – includes Raffle & refreshments www.biddenhamgardenersassociation.org.uk. Bedford RSPB local group Thursday 20th December 7.30pm Barrie Mason presents another of his wildlife adventures entitled ‘Birds & Mammals of the Brazilian Pantanal. Suitable for Experts and Novices, RSPB membership not essential. Meet at ARA club, Manton Lane Bedford MK41 7PF.
CLASSES, CLUBS & GROUPS MONDAYS Scottish Country Dancing – Social Dancing Monday evenings 7:45pm to 9:45pm £2.50 per session. First evening free. Individuals welcome, no experience/partner needed. Wear soft shoes. ARA Social Club, Manton Lane, Bedford MK41 7LR. Keith Rose, 01234 781448, keith@krose.plus.com “Ouse Valley Singers Mondays 7.30 p.m Four-part harmony mixed choir who perform mainly for charitable purposes in the North Beds area. Rehearsals held in Sharnbrook Methodist Church performing mainly light music e.g. show music, folk songs, etc. Contact Sue Plant 01234 314229.” Kempston and District Model Railway Society Every Monday 7.30pm-10pm NEW VENUE Kempston East Methodist Church. New members welcome. Contact Brian Woodcock on 07795251988 or brianwoodcock@btinternet.com
TUESDAYS Baby& Toddler Group Every Tuesday 9.30am-11.30am (in the hall). Park Road Methodist Church, Roff Avenue, Bedford MK41 7TJ 34
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WHAT’S ON
Silver lining Club for the Silver Haired First and third Tuesday of the month 2pm-4pm FREE Various activities or just sit and chat with a cup of tea or coffee. Park Road Methodist Church Roff Avenue, opposite the high flats. Number 10 bus stops outside.
Local Friendship Group We meet at a local public house every Wednesday at 8pm. New members welcome Call 07835 732412/07925 910639. mailto:friendshipclub365@gmail.com
Scottish Country Dancing – General Class Tuesday evenings 7:30pm to 10pm £2.50 per session. First evening free. Individuals welcome, no experience/partner needed. Wear soft shoes. ARA Social Club, Manton Lane, Bedford MK41 7LR. Keith Rose, 01234 781448, keith@krose.plus.com
Irish Ceili and Set Dancing. Wednesdays 8 pm to 10 pm £2 per session – first evening free. No partner required. Beginners welcome. The Reading Room, 1, Barkers Lane, Bedford. Ring Pat 01234 308224 for more details.
Steady Folk Music Session Last Tuesday of each month 7.30pm All standards of musician welcome whatever they play. Burnaby Arms, Stanley Street, Bedford MK41 7RU. Michael Bliss 01234 308449. Bedford Camera Club Every Tuesday 7.30pm Just starting out, or a photography enthusiast? Come and join a group of friendly, like minded people for talks and competitions. Scott Lower School, Hawk Drive, Bedford MK41 7JA Contact John Gough 07748572845. www.bedfordcameraclub.co.uk. Rotary Club of Bedford de Parys Meet for breakfast every Tuesday 7.15am for 7.30am start. Fellowship, fundraising and interesting speakers The Embankment Hotel, Bedford www.bedforddeparysrotary.co.uk Bedfordshire Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers. 1st Tuesday evening each month 7.30 – 9.30pm 3rd Saturday 10.30am. – 4.30pm each month. A friendly group of lovers of textile related crafts have changed venue to Flitwick Village Hall, 11 Dunstable Rd, Flitwick, Bedford MK45 1HP
WEDNESDAYS BOSOM PALS – Breast Cancer Charity 2nd Wednesday of each month 7.30pm to 9.45pm Friendly support group for ladies who have or have had breast cancer. Our aim is to provide information and support to help those going through breast cancer treatment and beyond. Good social activities throughout the year. Transfiguration Church Hall, Bedford Road, Kempston, MK42 8BQ Contact Denise 01234 771746 or Pauline 01234 350079 or email bosom-palsbedford@outlook.com
Tudor Reeds Folk Dance Club First, Third and Fifth Wednesday of each month eve 8-10pm Friendly social Folk Dancing Club It’s good fun for only £1 incl. refreshments No partner required. St Marks Church Hall, Calder Rise (off Avon Drive), Brickhill, Bedford MK41 7UY Rosemary Mcneilage 01234 405594 MENCAP – Smiley Club Wednesdays 7pm – 8.30pm A fun social club for boys and girls from 9 to 18 who have learning disabilities. Activities include: Art and crafts, board games, outside play in the warmer months and hanging out with friends! Pine Cones Family Centre, (behind Livingstone Lower School) Clapham Road, Bedford. For further information please contact the club leader Jeff Smith on 07798 762 808 MENCAP – Sparkle Club Wednesdays in term time between 7.00pm – 9.00pm Social club for adults with learning disabilities. Putnoe Primary School, Church Lane, Bedford MK41 0DH. www.bedfordmencap.org.uk
THURSDAYS Abbeyfield Bedford Friendship Group Second Thursday of the Month 2.00pm-3.30pm Meet New People, Make New Friends Refreshments provided Darell Jeffreys House, 65 Chaucer Road, Bedford,MK40 2AL. Sarah Curtin 01234 348735 or email s.curtin@abbeyfield.com FLAG Bedford Thursday afternoons 2-4pm FLAG Bedford (Friendship Link & Action Group) is a social group for adults with a sensory and/or physical or learning disability, and their carers, who live in the Bedford area. Our aim is to combat social isolation and loneliness. Priory Methodist Church, Newnham Avenue, Bedford. Contact Linda on 07815 196357 or mailto:flag25@hotmail.co.uk
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WHAT’S ON Linedancing Absolute Beginners 7.00pm – 8.00pm (Still Room) Improver/Intermediate 8.00pm – 10.00pm (Still Room) Kempston Hammers Social And Sports Club, 134 High Street, Kempston MK42 7BN (Air Conditioned Hall/On Site Parking) Tel 07969847553 www.dancingstars.comli.com Bedford Pipe Band Thursdays 7.30pm – 9.30pm Friendly & relaxed group beginners to experienced. New members welcome. St John’s Church hall (MK42 0DL), Bedford. Contact Pipe Major Donald Reid 01234 268475 Mrs. Barrett (Band Secretary) 01234 360967 www.bedfordpipeband.org.uk Bedford Gallery Quire 1st, 3rd, 5th Thursday of each month 7.30 pm We welcome those interested in singing/playing’West Gallery’ music from the early 18th century to the mid 19th century. Priory Methodist Church, Newnham Ave, Bedford. Contact Ken Baddley 01234 310018 www.bedfordgalleryquire.org.uk Bedford Folk Dance Club Thursday eves 8 – 10 pm Friendly Country and Folk Dance Club £2.50 incl. Refreshments Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford MK41 8EB No partner required Ron Law 01234 825574 www.bedfordfolkdanceclub.com Magpie Ladies Group Friendly group who meet on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month at 7.30 pm Guest Speakers and social events Tea/Coffee and cake included. New members welcomed. St Mark’s Church, Calder Rise, Brickhill. (No meetings in August). Please Contact: Rosemary 01234 405594 or Barbara 01234 304960 Art Friends – Art for fun and friendship for all Thursdays 9.30am – 12.30pm Supportive club where beginners to those more experienced can develop their art work Suggested donation £4 Bromham Baptist Church, Village Road, Bromham, MK43 8JP. Enquiries please call: Jackie 07880 518465, Kevin 07780 756436 or Lindsay 07960 329609 Flower School Thursday evenings 5pm – 7pm Various arrangements covered with a demo followed by the opportunity for students to complete the same design to take home. April Flowers, 90 High Street, Clapham Booking essential Call Amy on 01234 343335 / 07794 827137
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P.M Bridge Group First and third Thursdays of each month 11am to 2.45pm Friendly duplicate bridge Good standard buffet lunch £6 including lunch, tea or coffee. Renhold Village Hall. Tel Ann on 01234 212066 Linedancing Thursday Kempston Hammers Social And Sports Club 134 High Street High Street Kempston Bedford MK42 7BN Absolute Beginners 7.00pm – 8.00pm (Still Room) Improver/Intermediate 8.00pm – 10.00pm (Still Room) www.dancingstars.comli.com tel:07969847553/
FRIDAYS Machine Knitting Group. Alternate Fridays 9.30 – 12.30 September to July Beginners and Improvers all welcome Wilden Village Hall, 2 High St, Wilden, Bedford MK44 2PB. Sheila Day Tel:01234 771328 Bedford Fine Companions Folk Dance Club Friday 8pm to 10pm 9 (Term Time) We are a friendly group always ready to welcome new members. No partner required. Hazeldene School Bedford MK41 9AT (use Hartshill entrance). Chris Rutt email:-carutt@ntlworld.com or telephone 01462 700451 www.finecompanions.wordpress.com or find us on Facebook. Bedfordshire Family History Society Meet the 1st Friday of every month. New members welcome Contact Lynn on 01234 306482 Held in the Drama Hall of Mark Rutherford School, Wentworth Drive, Bedford MK41 8PX www.bfhs.org.uk Friday Daubers Every Friday 1pm-4pm Friendly group of amateur daubers meets to spend a few hours enjoying our hobby. We use a variety of media. If you enjoy drawing and/or painting why not join us. 5 Lansdowne Road, Bedford Contact Anne 07548 840856 or Jenny 01234 824568 or email Marianne marianne.sellers@virginmedia.com
SUNDAYS Marlins Special Needs Swimming Club Sundays 6.30 – 8pm For learning and physical disabilities. All ages welcome. Admission £2 Carer free Oasis Swimming Pool Bedford Call Rose on 07954784795 or Val 07973859940 or just turn up!
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WHAT’S ON COMMUNITY / CHARITY EVENTS Beds & Northants MS Therapy Centre Table Top Sales Third Saturday of every Month 10 am – 12 noon Entrance 50p Bric a Brac, Books and Clothing Refreshments available The Beds and Northants MS Therapy Centre Bradbury House, 155 Barkers Lane, Bedford, MK41 9RX wwwmscentrebedsandnorthants.com New Years Eve Kempston Hammers Sports and Social Club Monday 31st December Local Live Band The VIPeas Tickets £15 Phone 01234 853262 134 High Street Kempston Oakley Rural Day Centre Oakley Rural, The Old School, Lovell Road, Oakley, Beds, MK43 7RX Providing older people with a place to make friends in a warm and comfortable atmosphere. Activities including crafts, entertainment, quizzes and good old conversation. Home cooked lunches, tea, coffee. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. For details of costs and advice regarding transport, contact Lynne on 01234 824935 or 07733 227374 www.oakleyrural.org.uk Over 70’s Gentle Exercise Classes Every Monday and Wednesday (exc bank holidays) Mondays – Bedford Central Library (3rd floor meeting room). Wednesday – Bedford International Athletics Stadium. £4 per session Tel 01234 718835 www.bedford.gov.uk/sport
HEALTH & WELLBEING Bedford Mascular Support Group Third Monday of each month at 10:30 am. Volunteer Centre, 43 Bromham Road Offering practical and emotional support to people suffering central vision loss or Macular Disease. Speakers on a range of related topics. Info 01234 708613. Hearts In Beds Cardiac Support Group First Tuesday each month 7pm Priory Methodist Church Halls, Newnham Ave, Bedford, MK41 9QJ Gentle exercise sessions from 7 – 7-30 pm under a qualified trainer. Everyone welcome, you don’t need to have a cardiac condition to join us. Raffle at the end of the evening. Contact Sid Luff, 01234 404671 or Ted Jolliffe 01234 327791
MUSIC, DANCE & THEATRE Children’s Pantomime – Cinderella Saturday 12th January 2.00pm Especially written to entertain children between the ages of 3 to 12 years no story captures the imagination of children more than Cinderella. Packed solid with comedy, excitement and adventure, the children will love to cheer their hero Prince Charming and boo the horrible step sisters as they try to keep Cinderella from going to the ball. Good old fashioned fun to delight and excite young and old. Tickets £8.00 each or £30.00 for four available from the village hall office Monday to Thursday 9pm to 4pm. 01234 822600. Kempston Musical Society Christmas Carol Concert Saturday 15th December 7.30pm Kempston Musical Society, Ouse Valley Singers and the Bedford Hospital Choir, together with invited soloists, will be performing a selection of Christmas carols and festive music in aid of Bedford Hospital. Tickets will cost £10.00 for adults, £7.00 for students and £4 for the under 18’s and over 60’s and will include a mince pie and a hot or cold drink. Tickets will not be available at the door, but need to be ordered by email at djfscott@yahoo.co.uk
SPORTS, FITNESS & OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES ARCHERY Ouse Valley Archers Thursdays 7.00pm – 9.00pm and Sundays 2.00pm – 4.00pm Currently offering a four week introduction in target archery. Courses run by Archery GB approved coaches and all equipment provided. For experienced archers or those who have completed a beginners course the club shoots indoors/outdoors at Putnoe Primary School & Field, Church Lane, Bedford For further details visit our website or contact info@ ousevalleyarchers.com BADMINTON Wootton Badminton Club Thursdays from 7.30pm to 10.00pm This friendly club welcomes anyone who does or has played badminton, sorry no absolute beginners. Wootton Upper School, Hall End, Wootton, Beds, MK43 9HT. Contact: Freda Dunlop 01234 270638 or garry.freda@btinternet.com www.woottonbedfordbadmintonclub.weebly.com BASKETBALL / DODGEBALL Bedford Thunder Basketball Club Mini Basketball (Reception-Yr 5) Sun 9.30am – 11am U14s Development (Yr 6-Yr 9) Sun 11am – 12.30pm U18’s Session (Yr 10-Yr 13) Sun 2pm – 3.30pm Bedford Academy, Mile Road, Bedford MK42 9TR For fees and more information please mailto:coach@bedfordthunder.com
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WHAT’S ON Bedford Mighty Eagles Dodgeball Team Tuesday’s 8pm-9pm Aimed at new players starting their basketball journey. If you are looking to keep fit and active, make new friends, or simply to have fun by learn basketball skills why not attend one of the sessions. The price is £3 per session and runs on a pay-as-youplay basis. As per Basketball England regulations all new members will need to register as a player before their third session – registration cost £10 per year. Bedford Academy. Mile Road Bedford MK42 9TR. You can find out more by visiting thisgirlcan. bedfordthunder.com
BOWLS Become a Wheelstar at Kempston Bowls Indoor Bowls Club If you are disabled and rely on a wheelchair to get around you may be interested in visiting Kempston Park Indoor Bowls Club. Every Tuesday from 12pm until 1.30pm a group of disabled people meet to play bowls from special ‘buggies’ in a friendly environment. A meal is available at the end of the session. You don’t need to have previously bowled. Pop in any from 12pm until 1.30pm to obtain information and to see if you would be interested in a trial.Telephone Anne or Doug on 01234 841071 Kempton Park Indoor Bowls Club Largest Indoor Bowls Club in the area for all ages and abilities. We offer a free taster session with one of our sixteen qualified coaches followed by 4 coaching sessions at a time to suit you. Bowls and bowls shoes provided for your lessons. Superb facilities. Phone today on 01234 852291. 290 Hillgrounds Road Kempston MK42 8UB www.kempstonparkbowls.co.uk Bromham Short Mat Bowling Club Tuesday evenings 7.00 pm – 9.30 pm (year round) Monday afternoons 2.00 pm – 4.30 pm (September to June only) Friendly group of people that play short mat bowls. Fun, in-expensive, sociable game for all ages with a cuppa at half time. First two sessions are free and where training can be given. Just bring a pair of flat shoes or even your slippers! Bromham Village Hall Contact Sue Amor on 01234 823610 for more details Mowsbury Park Bowling Club Wednesday or Friday 2pm to 4.30pm. Try lawn bowls for FREE Just bring flat shoes. For more info about our club please contact Anne Haynes on 01234 211828 www.mowsburyparkbowlsclub.co.uk Bedford Borough Bowling Club Est over 100 years now enrolling new members and forming a junior section. Indoor and outdoor bowling greens. FREE tuition from qualified instructors, with all equipment provided. Just wear flat shoes. Bar and comfortable lounge area with restaurant facilities for lunch time meals. Check our web site www.boroughbowlin.org.uk or telephone 01234 340736 for more details
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Bedford Bowling Club Welcome Sessions Every Tuesday and Friday 2pm – 4pm Warm, friendly club and the green is in a sheltered & idyllic part of the park. Taster sessions in Bedford Park (near the café), and we welcome anyone who would like to try the game. All equipment provided just wear flat soled shoes to protect the green. No cost or obligation and tea and biscuits provided. For information ring Ray on 305695, Warwick on 403551, or Alison on 343257. Or check out our web site google “bedfordbowlingclub, Bedford – hugo fox”.
CYCLING Cycling Uk Bedfordshire We meet on a regular basis and have rides to various places, and cater for all abilities. We ride as a group for the pleasure of riding and socialising, nobody gets left behind! See website ctc-bedfordshire.co.uk for details of our forthcoming rides, or ring 01234 219148 for further information. FOOTBALL Bedford Girls and Ladies FC Voluntary sports club for girls age 8 and upwards. If you’d like to find out more info please call Jill on 01234 772668 or 07850540631. Bedford FC Mini Soccer Club Every Saturday at Goldington Academy 10.30am till 12.15pm. Boys and girls aged 4-10yrs. £3.00 per child and £5 for two children. Our sole aim is to provide children of all abilities with a unique footballing experience, developing their physical, social and communication skills in a safe environment. Toilet and changing facilities and plenty of car parking spaces. www.bedfordfcminisoccer.com.
GOLF Bedford and County Golf Club Facilities for membership to suit all. Superb indoor and outdoor coaching from one of the best Professionals in the county. Award winning halfway house hospitality on site and excellent catering in the Club house. Green Lane, Clapham, Bedford MK41 6ET Tel 01234 352617 or www.bandcgc.co.uk KARATE GKR Karate Classes Wednesdays at 6.30pm to 7.30pm Free trial classes through April and June. Anyone who turns up for a class who is not already a GKR student will get a free 1 hour training session. No pressure to join. Putnoe Heights Church, 32 Putnoe Heights, Bedford MK41 8EB MARTIAL ARTS Shinpi Izumi Martial Arts Club – Ju Jutsu style Juniors – Mondays -term time only 6-7pm Adult / Senior Tuesdays – all year round 8-9pm St Cuthbert’s Hall, Newnham Street, Bedford, MK40 3JR. Please contact Rob Sensei on 07840 314869 for prices and further information One month free trial available
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WHAT’S ON RUGBY Little Scrummers Rugby Club Every Saturday at Kings Oak Primary School 8.30am until 11.10am. Exciting, fun & inspiring children’s tag rugby classes for girls and boys from 18 months up to 7 years old! We want to bring rugby to children at a young age to enable them to build their confidence, enjoy sport & have fun! For more information & to book in for a FREE TRIAL please visit us at www.littlescrummers.com RUNNING Bedford Parkrun every Saturday Meet at The Bandstand at 9am. Join us for a 5km run around the park (dogs, children and buggies all welcome). Register for free on the Parkrun UK website http:// www.parkrun.org.uk TABLE TENNIS Social Table Tennis Mondays & Tuesdays 7.30pm-10.00pm All Ages Welcome. Just Turn Up £4 per player per session, Bats Available, Free Hire Coaching Available Sports Hall, Lincroft School, Oakley Call John 07921 093199
Bedford Community Table Tennis Club Every weekday at 2 venues: Bedford Academy Mile Road and Church Lane Community Centre, Goldington. Each session is 2 hours. First Session is FREE at Bedford Academy Wednesday 7.30pm-9.30pm Call Harvey on 07884 938753 first.
WALKING/RAMBLING Bedford Rambling Club A friendly club who walk on a Sunday and Monday morning for a 5/6 mile walk in the countryside. See the website www.bedfordramblingclub.org or phone 01234 360769 for further information.
BedsLife Magazine cannot be held responsible for any changes, amends or cancellations of an event.
To list your event in the December issue please email christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk by
Friday 14th December
BROMHAM PAINTING & DECORATING • Full Profession Service • Fully Insured • FREE Quotations • Internal & External Work 30 years experience We only use local trade people as and when required We take on all aspects of painting and decorating and Home Improvements. We are based in Bromham and work alongside other Bromham businesses to help keep work in the local community. 50 mile radius covered CONTACT US ON:
01234 822651 • 07748 032051
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SERVICES
Small, friendly plastering company based in Bedford With over a decade of experience and a strong reputation for quality workmanship and reliability.
Plastering of ceilings and walls Damaged ceilings and walls repaired Covering artex Plasterboarding Skimming Patch repairs Insurance work
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BRIDGE ROOFING All aspects of roofing, facias and guttering. Free quotes All work guaranteed 01234 404080 07542 719971
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Prize £50 prize Bumper Christmas
C R O S S WO R D Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this section and send to the address below before Friday 14th December. Prize Crossword, BedsLife, 17 Foxbrook, Stevington, Bedfordshire MK43 7QY
Across 1 5 8 9 10 11
Bough (6) Desert plant (6) Cute, charming (8) ‘Windows to the soul’ (4) Largest continent (4) Glass vessel used in science (4,4) 12 Clergyman (6) 13 Make certain (6) 15 Spectator (8) 18 Test, assessment (4) 19 Charismatic celebrity (4) 20 Songwriter (8) 21 Most strange (6) 22 Tune, song (6)
Name: Address:
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Down 2 Shared out, apportioned again (13) 3 Recount, chronicle (7) 4 Natural environment of an animal (7) 5 Strategy-based board game (5)
6 Swindle, con (5) 7 Without shame (13) 13 Tympanic membrane (body part) (7) 14 Cut out design, motif (7) 16 Mysterious, spooky (5) 17 Manservant, butler (5)
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SERVICES
Fine Art Drawing By Andy Specialising in Animal Portraits
With Christmas fast approaching why not give your business some sparkle this festive season with Inspiring, Creative and Eye-Catching artwork. Whether it be advertising, menus or promotional leaets/brochures Doug Dawson Creative can offer you a bespoke design service tailored to your needs.
01767 316139 07808 770845 doug@dougdawson.co.uk www.dougdawson.co.uk
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Please feel free to call on 07903 999721 to discuss any other commissions or alternatively email
fineartdrawingbyandy@gmail.com Christmas commissions now being taken.
17/10/2018 11:37
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YOUR LOCAL EXPERT PLUMBING & DRAINAGE SERVICE No call out charges • Pre-fixed price 24/7 • 365 days a year
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Book your vaccination & nurse appointments online! Visit our website or Facebook page. acornhousevets.com/ online-appointments
Acorn House Veterinary Hospital Linnet Way, Brickhill, Bedford MK41 7HN
Tel: 01234 261839 www.acornhousevets.com 46 Register online today.
V E T E R I N A RY C A R E OV E R T H E
Christmas period
Take the following steps to make sure that your pet is safe and healthy this festive season.
AVOID FESTIVE HAZARDS Around Christmas, dogs often help themselves to Christmas treats, resulting in upset tummies, intestinal obstructions and chocolate poisoning. Take care to hide anything tempting – including those boxes of chocolates wrapped up underneath the tree! Cats are more likely to play with and then eat shiny ribbon and string, which can cause serious damage to the intestines.
HAVE A CHECK UP WITH THE VET IF YOU ARE WORRIED If you have concerns about your pet, the festive period is not a good time to adopt the “wait and see” approach. Much better to schedule a routine check-up appointment at the first sign of any problems, than to risk an emergency call out on Christmas Day!
premises for their clients, but some other veterinary practices in Bedford do not provide such a service and their patients will need to travel to Milton Keynes or Luton in the event of an emergency. Make sure that you know what the procedure is, and have a plan in place to transport your pet to the correct clinic.
STOCK UP ON MEDICATION WELL IN ADVANCE For pets on regular medication, make sure that you order in enough to see
you through the festive period. Remember to take it with you if you and your pet travel to visit family and friends.
REQUEST A COPY OF YOUR PET’S RECORDS If you are travelling with your pet and they suffer from a health condition, it is a good idea to ask your vet for a copy of your pet’s notes before you go. These can usually be provided electronically and will be invaluable if you need to take your pet to an unfamiliar veterinary surgery whilst you are away.
FIND OUT WHAT EMERGENCY SERVICE YOUR VET PROVIDES Where will you need to take your pet if he or she does become ill at night, or on a bank holiday? Acorn House Vets provide an emergency service at the usual practice 47
TA K E M E H M E Cats Protection Bedford and Biggleswade
Penny
Lovely girl needs a patient home to settle into.
Bella
Young mum looking for a home to call her own
Wilba
Affectionate stray looking for his forever home
Betty & Katie Clover
Larry
Former stray looking for a special home
Sweet natured girl looking for a warm loving home PETS
OPEN FOR ADOPTION
Cats Protection Bedford and Biggleswade Branch Call 0345 260 2505 or visit www.bedford.cats.org.uk When any cat leaves Cats Protection, they will have been microchipped, neutered (if old enough) and vaccinated. We also provide four weeks’ free insurance (terms and conditions apply) giving invaluable peace of mind and reassurance. All they need now is a loving home to make their dreams come true. Photos and details of many of the cats we have looking for homes are on our website. For further information Phone: 0345 260 2505 Online: www.bedford.cats.org.uk Email: helpline@bedford.cats.org.uk Reg Charity 203644 (England and Wales) SCO37711 (Scotland)
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Playful kittens looking for a new home, either separate or together
SERVICES
DC CARPENTRY Specialist in Carpentry & Joinery ly Free design on supp s en ch kit ted fit and Doors & Frames supplied & fitted Replacement Upvc facia and gutters Upvc doors and windows Laminate & Wooden flooring Decking fences and gates 6 Single hite ed w d fit ll e n a p an upply es door s ndles, hing a h c in tch la d n a ÂŁ70 from
All general carpentry jobs undertaken, large and small.
For advice and a free estimate call Dom on
01234 306575 / 07961 328721
15 Linnet Way, Brickhill, Bedford MK417HN
www.dccarpenrty.org
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GARDENING
Oak Blister Fungus ( TA P H R I N A C A E R U L E S C E N S )
Oak leaf blister fungus (Taphrina caerulescens), also known as the Tongue Fungus, affects around 50 different species of oak globally. Within the UK and Ireland the Evergreen oak (Quercus ilex) is especially sensitive. This family of fungi are also responsible leaf blistering, witches broom and leaf curl of several other tree genera. Oak leaf blister fungus arrived in the UK fiveeight years ago and is becoming more prevalent and severe on an annual basis. Blisters appear on the foliage in early summer. These blisters are scattered over the upper leaf surface with corresponding brown “furrylike” depressions on the lower surface. Blisters turn from yellow to reddish-brown with pale yellow margins to dull brown with age. Several blisters may merge and cause entire leaves to curl.
Heavy infections of oak leaf blister fungus can impair the appearance of a tree, but research to date indicates repeated and prolonged infection does not necessarily endanger tree health. This fungus overwinters on twigs and bud scales, and infects new leaves via the stomata as they are emerging during cool wet springs.
Management is difficult as no fungicides are registered for management purposes. Improving tree vitality by watering, mulching and fertilising with phosphite based fertilisers can reduce the degree of blister severity. Cultural methods of control include collection and disposal/burning of leaves.
For more advice visit: www.bartlett.com or contact Bartlett Tree Experts on 01767 627 532 Visit us on Facebook at Bartlett Tree Experts – Bedford UK
GARDENING
Tim Brown 01767 627532 bedford@bartlettuk.com www.bartlett.com
BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS A Very Brown Hedge Indeed Aphids are one of the most common and troublesome of all garden insect pests. They attack a large number of garden plants throughout the country and are recently causing much disfigurement to ornamental conifer hedges. Commonly known as Greenfly and Blackfly, these aphids feed on hedges, sucking the sap of the plant and can spread several viruses, causing severe dieback. Cypress Aphid is currently troublesome and pre-dominantly affects conifer hedging. Damage inflicted on conifer hedges by the aphid Cinara cupressi is severe and can lead to large brown patches on the hedge. This leads to localised foliage death, reducing the aesthetic look of the hedge. As the aphid is active from May to October it is important to catch this problem early and apply treatments to stop its spread. At the first sign of brown patches call us for a free consultation and professional advice.
Tree & Shrub Pruning l Planting l Tree Removal l Stump Grinding l Hedge Cutting Health & Safety Reports l Disease & Insect Control To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
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GARDENING
Top 5 Plants
FOR CHRISTMAS
Hippeastrum / Amaryllis – is a remarkable bulb, which produces 60cm / 2ft tall, fleshy drainpipe stems and flamboyant trumpet flowers up to 20cm /8in across. ‘Red Lion’ with deep scarlet flowers; ‘Apple Blossom’ with pink-tinged white flowers, and ‘Christmas Gift’ with plain white flowers, are readily available. You can buy them as DIY plantit-yourself kits, or as ready-planted gifts.
Citrus bushes make interesting presents. Sold at this time of year with both flowers and developing fruit, they are deliciously scented. Lemon varieties ‘Meyer’ and ‘Four Seasons ‘are lovely but also consider calamondin oranges. The plant should be kept in a light, frost-free spot over the winter with a minimum night temperature of 5C, then in the summer the pot can be moved outside. Cyclamen persicum is wonderfully decorative. The flowers range from white, through pink, to red. This is probably a gift for a more experienced gardener as persuading it to flower again can be a challenge, but it can be done. Keep it in full light in
winter, at a steady 13C-16C. Give it a liquid feed fortnightly while it is in flower. Water less as the stems start to bend and collapse, then keep it completely dry for three months during its dormant period. Gently introduce water again as new leaves appear. Schlumbergera x buckleyi, the Christmas cactus is a perennial favourite. It has protruding stamens at the end of succulent, flattened leaves, and pretty flowers. It likes high humidity while flowering so mist it regularly it with a fine spray of clean water, and feed it monthly with a high-potash feed. When it’s finished flowering put the plant in a light spot and keep the compost just moist. Hyacinthus orientalis ‘Ostara’ is stunning with deep-blue flowers, powerfully scented and particularly nice when planted as a trio in a bowl or basket. Christmas hyacinths are ‘forced’ to flower earlier than they would naturally. They need a cool spot, preferably no more than 13C, so that they do not flop. No-one wants a floppy hyacinth! The bulbs can be planted in the garden afterwards so will continue to provide pleasure in future years. Viburnum x bodnantense ‘Dawn’ is not a houseplant but it makes a fabulous gift. It flowers from November, while the leaves are still on, through the winter. The pink flowers are scented and a few sprigs in a small vase at this time of year are just joyous. Even better it is totally hardy so is great for the non-green-fingered, and can be planted out of a pot at any time, if the ground isn’t frozen. Happy festive gardening.
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GARDENING
For All Your Landscaping Needs Landscaping:
Maintenance:
-Fencing -Patios -Decking -Turfing -Gravelling
-Grass Cutting -Hedge Trimming -Garden Clearance -Small Tree Works -Pressure Washing
Professional Service, FREE Quotes, Fully Insured & All Waste Removed. T: 01234 960690 M: 07889 920435 www.tpigardenservices.co.uk
01234 960796
www.edentreespecialists.co.uk info@edentreespecialists.co.uk
Professional Tree Surgeons Careful felling and sectional dismantling of trees Expert pruning, including crown reductions, crown thins, deadwood removal and pollarding Hedge maintenance and trimming Stump grinding and removal
Tree and hedge planting ÂŁ10m Public Liability Insurance TPO and Conservation Area applications ARB Approved Contractors Free quotations and advice given.
To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
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GARDENING
Guttering Problems? • Gutters cleaned • Leaking gutters repaired • New guttering fitted All by a friendly, local, established company Call Rob on
01234 480244 or 07977 206403
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SERVICES
J&D WINDOW CLEANING SERVICES BEDFORD FOR ALL YOUR DECORATING NEEDS...
Over 25 years experience...
Internal & External Decorating Plastering Refurbishments Quality Workmanship A friendly and reliable service
• Traditional window cleaning • Window cleaning using our safety reach pole system • Domestic & commercial cleans • Guttering • Facia • Driveway • Conservatories/Conservatory roofs
www.cjohnsondecorators.co.uk
Tel: 07745369697 / 07526275764 doncoalter@googlemail.com
Tel: 01234 960304 Mobile: 07929 181619
CJ Advert.indd 1
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13/08/2015 09:24
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The
B LU E S Bedford Blues are delighted to announce that they have been selected to host the Under 20s Six Nations clash between England and Italy on Friday 8th March 2019. Goldington Road will open its gates to Steve Bates’ charges as they prepare to face the Azzurri in the fourth round of the competition and the day before the senior sides battle it out at Twickenham. Speaking about the announcement, Bedford Blues Chairman Geoff Irvine said: “We are thrilled to be able to play host to some of the best up-and-coming talent that England and Italy have to offer and I’m sure that we are set for a wonderful evening of rugby. The Under 20 Six Nations tournament has grown so much over the years and it is an excellent opportunity to see the stars of the future. “Bedford is an extremely special town for so many reasons, but the fact that we have the largest concentration of Italians in Britain will make this a very special fixture at Goldington Road. The town loves its rugby and is very proud of its Italian heritage, so I’m sure that we can expect plenty of support for both teams on the night.” Tickets for the game are on sale now and you can save up to £4 by ordering in advance online at www.bedfordrugby.co.uk
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Bromham Windows & Home Improvements UPVC Windows & Doors, Conservatories, Fascia, Soffit & Guttering All double glazing repairs including:Broken & misty sealed units, hinges, faulty doors and locks, handles and much more.
For a free no obligation quotation call:-
01234 306662 or 07960 109429
Email: nightingale12@ntlworld.com
• Wood Burning Stoves • Multi Fuel Stoves • Chimney Lining • Twin Wall Flue Systems • Installation and Supply • Fireplace Renovations • Stove Accessories • Trade sales welcome
SHOWROOM NOW OPEN
Monday & Wednesday to Saturday – 10am – 5pm Other Days/Out of hours by prior arrangement
Unit 2 Home Farm Court, The Street, Diddington, St Neots, PE19 5XT
info@cromwellstoves.co.uk 01480 812281
The
E AG L E S Since the last time of writing, the Eagles have fallen further behind with their league fixtures, and at the moment, have played the least number of league games in the division. Bedford’s continued involvement in the Buildbase FA Trophy has been the main reason why only two fixtures in the league have been played - both wins at home to Aylesbury United 3-0, and then gave Bromsgrove Sporting their first defeat of the season with a 5-1 drubbing. The FA Trophy has seen a win at Tilbury by 4-1, despite going a goal behind early in the 2nd half, and a colossal battle against Kingstonian (one division higher), when Bedford battled and conceded a goal in the second minute of stoppage time, only to equalise with the last kick of the match three minutes later. In the replay, despite going behind twice, the Eagles progressed to the next round with a 3-2 win at the Eyrie. A 2-2 draw away at Chipstead in the next round has necessitated a replay at the Eyrie. Bedford are in eighth position in the league at the moment, and lie four points off the playoffs with three games in hand on the four teams immediately above. Bedford have four planned games in December. Aylesbury FC visit the Eyrie on Saturday 15th, with another home tie three days later on Tuesday 18th, against Berkhamsted. Boxing Day sees Cambridge City in Bedford for the big Christmas game, and four days later, Kidlington come to town (29th). Bedford visit AFC Dunstable on New Years Day for the opening game of 2019. www.bedfordeagles.net www.facebook.com/bedfordtown www.twitter.com/bedfordtown
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D I R E C TO R Y AMERICAN VEHICLE SERVICE CENTRE Atlantic Autos 26 ANIMAL PORTRAITS Fine Art Drawing By Andy
44
BATHROOMS/BEDROOMS Dream Doors F and D Kitchens & Bathrooms Peter Crisp
CLOTHING ALTERATIONS The Zipyard
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COMPUTER REPAIR/MAINTENANCE/ SALES Oakley IT 25 PC Problem Solver 43 CURTAINS & BLINDS Emperor Blinds
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DANCE SCHOOL Footsteps School of Dancing
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BOOKKEEPING Joda Services
60
DESIGN SERVICES Doug Dawson Creative
44
CATTERY Paddocks Boarding Cattery
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DRAIN SERVICES Drain Doctor
45
CARPENTRY D C Carpentry
49
ELECTRICAL GOODS / REPAIRS JB Domestic
24
CARPETS & FLOORING A&A Carpets SWC Flooring
9 43
ELECTRICIAN Craddock Electrical Down to Earth
49 60
CHARITY Emmaus 25
ESCAPE ROOM Clue HQ
27
CHRISTMAS TREES Harpur Centre Florist
CHILDREN’S SOFT PLAY CENTRE Jungle Jim’s Playland 27
EVENTS Autism Bedfordshire Christmas Weekend 20 Harpur Centre Santa’s Grotto 31 Swing’s The Thing 30 The Quarry Theatre 2
CHILDREN’S PARTIES CharacterKidz 16
FUNERAL SERVICES Arnolds Funeral Service
19
CHIMNEY SWEEP The Black Horse Chimney Sweep
GARAGE DOORS Almond Garage Doors
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32
19
CLEANING Aroma Clean 23 CitrusClean 16 D&J Window Cleaning 45 Sureclean 10 CLOCK SALES & REPAIRS Bedford Clocks
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GARDEN SEVICES/SUPPLIES Artificial Grass 51 Bartlett Tree Experts 51 Beaver Sheds 53 Bryan Johnson 61 Eden Tree Specialists 53 LWS 54 M J Nicholson 61 MK Guttering 54
Mr Fix Property Maintenance 56 54 Prestige Lawns Sureclean 10 TPI 53 Whites 61
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CP Ceilings Homeworks Property Maintenance Just So Mr Fix Property Maintenance
56 10 45 56
GIFTS & HOMEWARE The Home Fragrance Company Your Gift Basket Lil Baker
13 11 44
ROOFING Bridge Roofing Bucks Roofing Nu-Look Conservatory Roof Solutions
41 14 15
HEALTH, BEAUTY & FITNESS Bedford Chiropractic Clinic Feet To Go
10 43
SECURITY A Rocket J Dean Security
62 24
HOUSE CLEARANCE The Bizarre
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SKIP HIRE Paul Riches Skips
14
STOVES Cromwell Stoves
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JEWELLERY & FASHION ACCESSORIES Stella & Dot KITCHENS Dream Doors F and D Kitchens Homeworks Property Maintenance Peter Crisp
22 15 55 10 22
LEISURE Cineworld 40 OPTOMETRIST John Kaye PAINTING & DECORATING Bromham Painting & Decorating Craig Johnson David Lower Decorating MH Decorating Sir Decorator PLASTERER CM Plastering CP Ceilings Craig Johnson PLUMBING & HEATING Aquasure Plumbing C M Plumbing & Heating LCA Plumbing & Heating T R Donnelly The Bedford Plumbers
23 39 55 60 30 60 41 56 55 39 13 14 61 49
SUGARCRAFT Sugarsmiths 62 TAXI/AIRPORT TRANSFER Ace Cars
30
TILING Dave Moore Tiling
41
TV SATELLITE SERVICES J Dean Security
24
UPHOLSTERY M&S Upholstery
60
VEHICLE HIRE Rent Xpress
62
VETS Acorn House
46
WILL WRITING The Will Writing Company
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WINDOWS, DOORS & CONSERVATORIES 1st Glass 15 A Rocket 62 Bromham Windows 57 Cloudy2Clear 64 Kempston Windows 26 59
CLASSIFIEDS BOOK KEEPING
CLOCK SALES & REPAIRS
ELECTRICIAN
Clock Repairs • Clock Sales OLD CLOCKS WANTED FOR SPARE PARTS
Call Michael:
01234 217104
Associate member of the British Horological institute for 25 years
www.bedfordclocks.co.uk DANCE LESSONS
FURNISHINGS
M&S
Upholstery
Complete Re-upholstery Service
Quality Service Call now at: 01234 302883 Or: 07954161786
● Traditional and modern ● 3 pc suites, wing chairs, arm-chairs, recliners, dining room chairs and stools ● Frame repairs, re-springing, and replacement cushion fillings ● Domestic and contracted work undertaken ● Free estimates and friendly advice
DECORATING SERVICES
DAVID LOWER DECORATING SERVICES Interior & Exterior Decorating Local – Bedford based Over 40 years experience Competitive Rates Discounts for Senior Citizens
Call 01234 307411 or 07973 470650 60
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CLASSIFIEDS GARAGE DOORS
HAIRDRESSER
ALMOND GARAGE DOORS LTD Bedford & Milton Keynes New Sales & Installations Existing Doors Automated Spare Parts 01234 828953
info@almondgd.co.uk
Unit 1a, College Farm, Oakley, MK43 7RX
GARDENING SERVICES
WHITE’S LAWNMOWERS & GARDEN MACHINERY SALES, SERVICE, REPAIR & PARTS
Commercial & Domestic, all leading brands.
01234 826066 www.whites-online.co.uk College Farm, Oakley, Bedford, MK43 7RX
Deborah
MOBILE QUALIFIED STYLIST Perms, Cuts, Colours - highlights etc Special Occasions and Wedding Hair
01234 210337 07976 394798
www.hairdressingbydeborah.com HEATING SERVICES
T.R.Donnelly
HEATING SERVICES
557766
Local Engineer Specialising in all heating appliances Breakdowns & Installations Fixed Boiler Services £60 Landlord Gas Certs Power Flushing All Plumbing Repairs Carried Out
01234 307 667 | 07967 643 405 HOUSE CLEARANCE
HOUSE CLEARANCE SPECIALIST 28 YEARS EXPERIENCE. CASH PAID FOR UNWANTED HOUSEHOLD ITEMS
CALL SALLY 01234 326551
07854 969032
PRINT PERSONALISATION
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SUGARCRAFT
Suppliers of Sugarcraft Equipment Stockists of: PME | FMM | Beau | Sugarflair | Rainbow Dust FPC Moulds | Renshaw | Covapaste and more! Cake Stand & Tin hire also available Knowledgeable & Friendly service Visit us at: 61 Union St, Newport Pagnell MK16 8ET 01908 611 739 | sugarsmiths@outlook.com
Volunteering
Opportunities
Volunteering brings great rewards and we have opportunities for all. View hundreds of options through our on-line facility where you can register as a volunteer and apply..
VEHICLE HIRE
We have 32 trustee roles on our system. Search for details by including the word – trustee – in the keyword field on our on-line role search facility at cvsbeds.org.uk/volunteer
• Self Drive Hire • Contract Rental • Financial Lease • Large Fleet of Standard • Refrigerated • Specialised Vehicles
rentxpressltd.co.uk 01234 339008
Bedford Credit Union – a not for profit financial cooperative looking to strengthen their skill set through appointing trustees with experience in banking, marketing and social media, or HR and employment. Meetings are Wednesdays, monthly. Companions Real Bread – A commercial real bread bakery which is a community interest company working with and welcoming exoffenders. Looking for board members with good business and financial skills and an understanding of the criminal justice system. Meetings are Monday, early evenings, every two months. Royal Air Forces Association – A member-led welfare charity for the support of RAF families. Looking for a branch treasurer. Bedford branch meetings are monthly. Healthwatch Central Bedfordshire – This powerful consumer champion for public services is seeking directors, and a new Chair with voluntary sector leadership experience, to lead the organisation through the next phase of its development. Six meetings through the year – late afternoon and evenings. Campaign to Protect Rural England – CPRE fights for a better future for the English Countryside and would like to fill the role of Honorary Secretary with an effective administrator to help them. Home based activities plus six meetings a year. 43 Bromham Road, Bedford Call 01234 354 366 or Email volunteering@cvsbeds.org.uk www.cvsbeds.org.uk
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The Will Writing Company Mayfair House 11 Lurke Street Bedford MK40 3HZ Tel: 01234 964911
Free Will & Testament The Will Writing Company is celebrating its 22nd Year in business and is offering a free Will & Testament (joint or single) to all readers. If you have been meaning to make a Will, now is your chance to take advantage of this exclusive offer and give you and your loved ones peace of mind. By making a Will, you decide who takes care of your children and who inherits your estate. Storage facility optional.
To take advantage of this offer and book an appointment or for further information please call n the above number between the hours of 9:00am-5:30pm Monday to Friday.
OFFER ENDS 31st December 2018
FREE WILL VOUCHER
This voucher entitles you to a FREE Mirror Will (normal cost £125) or a FREE Single Will (normal cost £85)
Valid until 31st December 2018 The Will Writing Company
Mayfair House, 11 Lurke Street, Bedford, Beds, MK40 3HZ
Tel 01234 964911
Email:enquiries@thewillwritingco.co.uk
Terms and Conditions. The voucher must be produced at your appointment. To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
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