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CONTENTS
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!
Council News 4 View from the Parliamentary Staff Team 6
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BedsLife Magazine would like to thank all our advertisers for their continued support without which we would not have a publication. Please remember, if you enjoy reading BedsLife and are looking for a trades person or a service, we have a whole range of fantastic local businesses promoting themselves each month.
FEBRUARY ISSUE BOOKING DEADLINE FRIDAY 3RD JANUARY
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Willington BEDFORD BED B BE E ED DFO ORD O OR RD Riverfield Drive Kempston Castle Road Newnham Wootton Wixams A421 A6
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COMMUNITY
COUNCIL
news
BEDFORD BOROUGH COUNCIL OFFERS EMERGENCY BEDS FOR ROUGH SLEEPERS EVERY NIGHT THROUGHOUT WINTER Rough sleepers in Bedford Borough are able to access emergency beds every night during the winter months, and not just when temperatures drop below freezing. For the second successive year in the Borough, accommodation is available every night until 31 March, instead of just offering basic emergency beds in very cold weather. This is on top of existing accommodation which provides 39 beds for rough sleepers throughout the year at the ‘Somewhere Safe to Stay Hub’ run by SMART in the town centre and the Kings Arms Project ‘Nightshelter’.
The ‘Somewhere Safe to Stay Hub’ is open 24 hours a day providing short-term accommodation and wrap-around support for rough sleepers. A number of multi-agency professionals work together from the Hub providing advice from a variety of support services to help people get back into a home and living independently. We encourage anyone that is sleeping rough to visit the Prebend Day Centre, speak to any of our outreach workers, or contact the Council’s Housing Options Team at any time on 01234 267422. If anyone has concerns about someone they see sleeping rough, please report them to the outreach teams at www.streetlink.org.uk.
JUST BLISS IN BEDFORD Bedford Borough Council and partners have launched their Behaviour, Learning and Inclusions Support Strategy (BLISS), a multi-agency approach to promote inclusion and helping vulnerable children to stay in school. Produced in partnership with schools, colleges, nurseries, police and health services, this strategy will work to ensure that schools are supported to be inclusive and effectively tackle challenging behaviour from students, to further reduce exclusions in the borough. While there has been a national rise in exclusions, Bedford Borough has seen incredible progress from schools in reducing permanent exclusions. There is a commitment to capitalise on the progress we are making and extend this to reducing fixed term exclusions. 4
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The strategy aims to make education accessible to every child, working with those who are vulnerable to exclusion and providing support at the earliest opportunity. An enhanced workforce development offer will be made available to all schools, through an Early Help Assessment, with tailored support for children who are struggling with aspects of their behaviour in the classroom. Launched alongside BLISS were two further documents, ‘The Little Book of BLISS’, a manual to accompany the BLISS, and ‘The Early Help and Intervention Graduated Response’. This outlines the different support that is available to schools when dealing with challenging behaviour and the approach the Council takes to interventions.
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VIEW FROM T H E PA R L I A M E N TA R Y S TA F F T E A M !
By the time you read this there will be a new Government. As a country we will have all trailed through weeks of election news and battles over who was interviewing (or not interviewing) who, we’ve finished watching ‘I’m a Celebrity..’ and the Strictly Final and then headed straight into the Christmas TV season. For those elected in December what actually happens? This is an insight into what a newly elected Member of Parliament can expect in the days that follow an election. The campaign team, friends and family rush around congratulating you as a new MP, the Returning Officer hands you an envelope on the night containing your instructions on the next steps. You might also receive a WhatsApp message from the Whips Office telling you when you need to report to the House of Commons; they’ll usually give you the weekend to make your arrangements and expect you there on Monday morning… but that might not have been the case in these squeezed timetable times. Anyone elected pre-2010 will tell you about how “in their day” there was no such thing as an induction. You were left to make your own way, and if you were lucky a friendly colleague would let you follow them when the division bells rang. Thankfully, we have moved on slightly from that, but be ready to absorb huge quantities of new information (whilst also learning the names of all your new colleagues, your way around the
6
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Parliamentary estate, oh, and don’t forget you have constituency emails and post flooding in but you have no office or desk of your own yet). The induction for new MPs is split into several different areas – the Clerks of the House will provide briefings on etiquette, how the Chamber works and the ins and outs of Parliamentary procedure. The House and IPSA will provide a New Members’ Reception Area set up to deal with everything from your laptop, salary and security, to car parking spaces and your peg in the cloakroom! Your Party will provide its own ‘induction’; which will be your first taste of a three-line whip. The pressure of those first few days can be quite immense. Suddenly, you are a very small fish in a fast-flowing river and it can be difficult to navigate. For those watching from outside there are huge expectations; for you to know a lot from day one, for you to have a fully staffed office poised to help (the reality is that can take several weeks to set up) and for you to be available to everyone wishing to meet you and fill you in on their case/issue/strategy/pet project or just to say hello. It’s a huge learning curve, however politically savvy you are, but it’s also the culmination of sometimes many years of passionate campaigning and desire to make a difference, and to make the world go round just a little bit more smoothly. So do talk to your new MP, but if they look a little panicked in the first few weeks don’t be surprised!
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7
CELEBRATING LOCAL SPORTING HEROES
BEDFORD SPORTS AWARDS 2019
Monday 9 December saw the local Sports Awards ceremony take place at Bedford Corn Exchange, celebrating local sporting heroes from across the Borough. These Awards have been running for over 20 years and have become a key date in the local sporting calendar, bringing together nominees across eleven categories including athletes, clubs, coaches and volunteers, celebrating their hard work and dedication.
Over 100 nominations were received this year across the Awards, with a panel of 20 judges deciding this year’s winners. Winners this year include Bedford Hockey Club winning Sports Club of the Year who, in their 125th anniversary year, have had seven promotions and two club youngsters selected for England U16 and U18 teams; and Tennyson James who won the Adult Sports Personality of the Year following his outstanding success in athletics this year.
Sports club of the year
Bedford Hockey Club
Community club/group of the year
Bedford and District Netball League
Sporting school of the year
Brickhill Primary School
Junior sports personality of the year
Holly Tutt (Skiing)
Special commendation
Maddie Axford (Hockey)
Special commendation
Ruby Isserlis (Canoe polo)
Sports young volunteer of the Year
Sophie Beckett (Netball)
Sports team of the year
Bedford Rowing club junior squad (Rowing)
Sports admin/outstanding volunteer of the year
Nikki Woodworth (Gymnastics)
Sports coach of the year
Richard Darwin (Cricket)
Disability sports award
Dermot Bailey (Wheelchair Tennis)
Adult sports personality of the year
Tennyson James (Athletics)
Special commendation
Ellis Haggith (Basketball)
Outstanding achiever award
Jonathan Katz (Fencing)
The Bedford Sports Awards are sponsored by The Harpur Trust, No Limits, University of Bedfordshire, Fusion Lifestyle, Bedford College, Teams Beds & Luton, Times & Citizen, The Rotary Club of Bedford Park, R&C Coaching, Guidant Global, Bedford Sports Foundation and Bedford Borough Council. To see the full list of nominees and winners for this year’s Sports Awards visit www.bedford.gov.uk/sportsawards.
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HEALTHWATCH BEDFORD BOROUGH (HBB) JOINS SIGNLIVE
SignLive is a deaf-owned organisation based in the UK and commenced work in 2014. It is a service provider of online video interpreting services through its Video Relay Service (VRS) and Video Remote Interpreting (VRI). This allows Deaf people anywhere in the world to communicate with anyone, at any time, using an app which connects them to a qualified British Sign Language Interpreter. The service is available 24 hours a day and 365 days per year. SignLive offers an instant communication solution for deaf people who use British Sign Language (BSL). This is the first and preferred language of many deaf people; it is thought that there are around 150,000 BSL users in the UK. Healthwatch Bedford Borough (HBB) has contracted with SignLive to enable HBB to communicate with D/deaf clients in a visual, friendly and informative way. To see more information about SignLIve go to www.signlive.co.uk
HOMELESSNESS
Healthwatch Bedford Borough (HBB) gave a presentation on homelessness and health at a recent conference. Government reports show that 50% of people who are street homelessness have a diagnosed mental health problem and this figures rises to over 80% when non-diagnosed mental health conditions and poor mental health are taken into account. HHB`s presentation identified the triggers for becoming homeless, such as debt and family break-up, a background of childhood vulnerability living with domestic abuse, substance misuse and parents with severe mental health problems can also be a factor. HBB sought to influence an increased exchange of training between housing and mental health professionals in their counterpart’s area of expertise. 10
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VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES
January is often associated with new beginnings, so there is no better time to start volunteering. Here is just a flavour of the opportunities we hold at CVS Bedfordshire in organisations across the area … Search for this month’s featured roles by adding the name of the organisation into the keyword field on our on-line role search facility at cvsbeds.org.uk/volunteer Noah Enterprise Volunteer help is needed to keep people safe at the Winter Night Shelter in Luton. Evening shifts and sleeping shifts are available to be alongside the NOAH staff shift leader in helping rough sleepers settle down for the night, sleep restfully and pack up in the morning.
Food@Faces Community Cafe This role in the new community café at Church Lane Community Centre, is to support with preparing and serving food and drinks, as well as interacting with a variety of people from the local community. Available Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
Community Led Initiatives Mentor A volunteer mentor will produce support plans for service users, help identify achievable goals for them, and review progress focussed on personal recovery plans and reintegrating in to the community. A role for confident, positive and resourceful people that can make lasting changes.
Sight Concern Bedfordshire IT Support Club Could you help to create a friendly, sociable drop in club with visually impaired people, where they can share IT expertise and acquire more IT experience and offer support and training to enable club members to achieve their IT objective? You will need to be a patient listener, reliable and friendly. Bedford location.
RettUK Administrator Assistant Rett Uk provides support to people with Rett syndrome. They would like a volunteer administrator assistant to undertake general administrative tasks using Microsoft packages such as, Excel and word, take and transfer incoming calls, and provide a full range of effective administrative support to the office manager and fundraising team. Luton location.
Sue Ryder Care Catering Assistant The role may include stock taking and organising the store room, food preparation, taking food and drink orders from patients, tidying, cleaning and washing up, delivering meals and drinks to serviceusers, socialising with service-users and their families during refreshment and meal times, and designing menu sheets
43 Bromham Road, Bedford Call 01234 354 366 or Email: volunteering@cvsbeds.org.uk www.cvsbeds.org.uk 12
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G R O U P S S B U L C & ARTS & CRAFTS
BEDFORDSHIRE GUILD OF WEAVERS, SPINNERS AND DYERS. 1st Tues each month 7.30–9.30pm 3rd Sat 10.30am–4.30pm each month. Friendly group of lovers of textile related crafts. Flitwick Village Hall, 11 Dunstable Rd, Flitwick, Bedford MK45 1HP ART FRIENDS – ART FOR FUN AND FRIENDSHIP 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: Marie 07890095166, Stella 07764582657, Jill 07764984958 or Lindsay 07960 329609 MACHINE KNITTING GROUP. Alternate Fridays 9.30 – 12.30 September to July Beginners and Improvers welcome Wilden Village Hall, 2 High St, Wilden, Bedford MK44 2PB. Sheila Day Tel:01234 771328 BEDFORDSHIRE FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY Meet 1st Friday of every month. Contact Lynn on 01234 306482 Drama Hall, Mark Rutherford School, Wentworth Drive, Bedford MK41 8PX. www.bfhs.org.uk FRIDAY DAUBERS Every Friday 1pm-4pm Friendly group of amateur daubers. We use a variety of media. St Peter’s Church, De Pary’s Avenue, Bedford Contact Anne 07548 840856 or Jenny 01234 824568 or email Marianne marianne.sellers@virginmedia.com SKETCH FRIDAYS Every Friday, 12pm – 4pm Free Explore the works in our beautiful galleries and be inspired to create your own work of art. Materials are provided, or you can bring your own. Please do not bring paint or materials that might cause damage to the collection. The Higgins Bedford Castle Lane, Bedford MK40 3XD. 01234 718618
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BI BLE S T U DY
COMMUNITY BIBLE STUDY IN BEDFORD We are a warm and friendly group, meeting to study the bible. We meet every Tuesday in term time at North Brickhill Community Centre , MK41 7AF. Please contact Alyson Little: little_ alyson@hotmail.com
BR I DGE C LU BS
RENHOLD BRIDGE CLUB First and third Thursdays of each month 11 am to 2.45pm. Break for lunch midway (please bring your own sandwiches); coffee/ tea free. Friendly duplicate bridge. Members £3; guests and visitors £4. Renhold Village Hall, Wilden Rd, Renhold MK41 0LY Tel Rod 01234 771858 BEDFORD BRIDGE CLUB Tuesday and Friday evenings 7.30 p.m. start Monday mornings 10.00 a.m. start Competitive duplicate Bridge Table money, £2 for Members and £3 for non members. Brickhill Community Centre, Avon Drive, Bedford. CRANFIELD BRIDGE CLUB Sundays 6.45 for 7pm Cranfield Bridge Club is an EBU affiliated club playing duplicate bridge. Table money Members £2.50. Non members £3.50. Cranfield Village Hall, 13 Court Road, Cranfield MK43 0DR For more information telephone Chairman Bruce Kitchener 01234 750150. BEDFORD NO FEAR BRIDGE CLUB Duplicate bridge, Wednesday 7pm to 10pm at St Mark’s Church Community Centre, Calder Rise, Bedford MK41 7UY. Improvers bridge, Thursday 10am to 1pm at Church Lane Community Centre, Church Lane, Bedford MK41 0PW. Duplicate bridge, Friday 10am to 1pm at Brickhill Community Centre, Avon Drive, Bedford MK41 7AF. Improvers bridge, Friday 2pm to 4.45pm at St
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James Church Hall, 67 Church End, Biddenham MK40 4AS. Duplicate bridge, Sunday 6.30pm to 9.30pm at St James Church Hall, 67 Church End, Biddenham MK40 4AS. Table money for all sessions, £2 for Members and £3 for non members.
C A M E R A C LU B
BEDFORD CAMERA CLUB Tuesday 1st October 7.30pm Bedford Camera Club starts a new season with an introduction to what’s on this year. Visitors just £3. Call 07748 572845 for more details, or www.bedfordcameraclub.co.uk Scott Lower School, Hawk Drive, Bedford, MK41 7JA
C A R PE T BOW L S
RAVENSDEN CARPET BOWLS CLUB Wilden Village Hall Thursday afternoon 2pm to 4.30pm No experience or equipment required. Suitable for all ages £2 per session including refreshments. Just turn up to give it a try or for more information Call Mike on 01234 926021 RENHOLD CARPET BOWLS CLUB Renhold Village Hall Monday 2pm to 4.30pm Wednesday 7pm to 9.30pm No experience or equipment required. Suitable for all ages £2 per session including refreshments. Just turn up to give it a try or for more information Call Mike on 01234 926021
DA NC I NG
SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING – SOCIAL DANCING Mon 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
S
CLUBS & GROUPS SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING – GENERAL CLASS Tues 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 Tim 01234 317847 for more details 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 £2 incl. refreshments. No partner required. St Marks Church Hall, Calder Rise (off Avon Drive), Brickhill, Bedford MK41 7UY. Rosemary Mcneilage 01234 405594 DANCING STARS LINE DANCE CLUB Thurs (Dances From Absolute Beginners To Beginners) Beginners 7.00pm – 8.00pm Improver/Intermediate 8.00pm – 10.00pm (Dances From Improvers To Intermediate) www.dancingstars.comli.com/ Kempston Hammers Social And Sports Club 134 High Street High Street Kempston MK42 7BN (Air Conditioned Hall/On Site Parking) Tel 07969847553 BEDFORD FOLK DANCE CLUB Thursday eves 8 – 10 pm Friendly Country and Folk Dance Club. £3 incl. Refreshments St Mary’s Church Hall Church Lane, Goldington Bedford, MK41 0HL No partner required Ron Law 01234 825574 www.bedfordfolkdanceclub.com 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.
FR I E N DS H I P
SILVER LINING CLUB FOR THE SILVER HAIRED First & 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 venue every Wednesday 7 to 10pm. New members Welcome Call 07835 732412/07925 910639. Email: friendshipclub365@gmail. com GOLDEN FRIENDSHIP CLUB – FOR THE OVER 50’S Every thursday 2 – 4pm Bingo, cards, tea and talk, outings, lunches and more Christ the King Parish Hall Harrowden Rd, Bedford MK42 0SP Tel: 01234 304382 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 mailto:s.curtin@abbeyfield.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 MAN CAVE Friday Mornings 10am until 1pm Opportunity to make new friends, chat and share experiences.Are you unemployed, retired, missing work colleagues or would just appreciate some company? Come and join us! Sharnbrook Scout Hut. Church Ln, Sharnbrook, Bedford MK44 1HR
MEN IN SHEDS Keep active and healthy and meet new people. Have fun sharing skills, learning new ones, and help with community-based projects. 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). Steve Conway 0780 5775828 www.meninshedsbedford.org.uk
H E A LT H & W E LLBE I NG
OVER 70’S GENTLE EXERCISE CLASSES Every Monday and Wednesday (except bank holidays) Mon – Bedford Central Library (3rd floor meeting room) Weds – Bedford International Athletics Stadium £4 per session Tel 01234 718835 www.bedford.gov.uk/sport BEDFORD MASCULAR SUPPORT GROUP Third Monday of each month at 10:30 am. Volunteer Centre, 43 Bromham Rd 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, Beds, MK41 9QJ Gentle exercise sessions from 7 – 7-30 pm under a qualified trainer. All welcome, you don’t need to have a cardiac condition to join us. Contact Ted Jolliffe 01234 327791 or email tednmary.jolliffe@gmail.com Chairman Paul Keech. Tel. 012343 211733. Vice Chairman Tessa Whiting Tel. 07799 834026 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. Social activities throughout the year. Transfiguration Church Hall, Bedford Rd, Kempston, MK42 8BQ Contact Denise 01234 771746 or Pauline 01234 350079 or email bosom-palsbedford@outlook.com
To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
15
CLUBS & GROUPS
M O DE L M A KI NG
BEDFORD & DISTRICT SCALE MODEL CLUB Alternate Tuesday evenings 7.00pm – 10pm Southfields Community Centre, Southfields Rd, Kempston, MK42 7NR Did you build Airfix kits in your youth? Looking to return to the hobby? Experienced modeller looking to hook up with like-minded people and pass on hints and tips? Or are you a complete novice looking to make a start on your first kit? All ages welcome, whatever your skill level, and welcome all types of modelling subjects and media. Our main aim to is to have fun and exchange ideas and advice in a friendly atmosphere. Check out meeting times at www. bedfordmodelclub.co.uk or call Mark Peacock on 07963 956221
M O DE L R A I LWAY
KEMPSTON AND DISTRICT MODEL RAILWAY SOCIETY Every Wednesday 7.30pm-10pm NEW VENUE Kempston East Methodist Church. New members welcome. Contact Brian Woodcock on 07795251988 or brw60029@gmail.com
M US IC
DA CAPO STRING ENSEMBLE 1st and 3rd Wednesday each month, 8pm – 9.30pm DCSE was created about 10 years ago for adults who were either going back to an instrument after a number of years or started to learn as an adult. We’re a small, friendly group and meet at All Saints Church Hall in Kempston twice a month to play a variety of music from Bach to James Bond. We’re looking for players of roughly Grade 3 standard or above – no auditions necessary! If you’d like more information, please contact Jill on 07791 841467 or email jill.wightman@icloud.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 01234 360967 www.bedfordpipeband.org.uk
R A I LWAYS
THE LOCOMOTIVE CLUB OF GB – BEDFORD BRANCH First Tuesday of the month except July 7.30pm. Wide range of speakers. We also have occasional outside visits. St John’s Church Hall, St John’s Street, Bedford, MK43 0DL More info, Bill Davies – 01234 315594 or davieb563@gmail.com www.lcgb.org.uk/html/bedford/ bedford.htm
R E A D I NG
FRIENDLY READING GROUP Wednesdays 2.30pm to 3.30pm. Why not come and join us? It’s absolutely free, and you’ll have:-A short story read to you by Colin, our group leader. -Refreshments served by the library staff half-way through. -The companionship of a lovely group of other members. There is no commitment to attending. Wootton Library, Lorraine Road, Wootton MK43 9LH
S I NG I NG
“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 in Sharnbrook Methodist Church performing mainly light music e.g. show music, folk songs, etc. Contact Sue Plant 01234 314229.” 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 KEMPSTON MUSICAL SOCIETY Thursdays – 7.30pm. – 9.30pm. Four-part harmony mixed choir who perform mainly for charitable purposes in and around Kempston. Rehearsals in Transfiguration Church Hall, Bedford Road, Kempston performing light, secular and sacred music. Contact Janet on 01234 781010 for more information.
S PEC I A L N E E DS / LE A R N I NG DIS A BI LI T I E S
NO LIMITS MULTI-ACTIVITY CLUB The Multi-Activity Club is for people aged 16 years and over with a learning and / or a physical disability. Mondays from 1.45 – 2.45pm (excluding public holidays) Activities on offer include rounders, basketball, badminton, dodgeball and football. Bedford International Athletic Stadium, Barkers Lane, MK41 9SB £3 per session, no need to book, just pay on the day. MENCAP – SMILEY CLUB Wednesdays 7pm – 8.30pm A fun social club for boys and girls from 9 to 18 who have learning disabilities. 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 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 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!
BedsLife Magazine can not held responsible for any be amends or cancellatio changes, ns of an event.
Bromham Painting QP.pdf
DC CARPENTRY Specialist in Carpentry & Joinery Carpentry and Repairs Undertaken Including
Doors Gates Kitchens Flat Pack Assembly Skirting / Architrave Flooring Special Offer! Decking ained door with Single 6 panel gr le, hinges and e hand Victorian chrom and fitted from £75 d lie pp su latch
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SERVICES 1 01/05/2019
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
(Brickhill Based) info@dccarpentry.org
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To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
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&
BABY TODDLER GROUPS For more Baby & Toddler groups visit www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk
M O N DAY
WOOTTON BAPTIST CHUCH HALL WRIGGLERS Mondays 10-11.30am (Term Time) U5’s Lots of toys, craft activity and song time. 50p per family Bedford Road, Wootton Tel 07814 164246 OAKLEY TODDLER GROUP Mondays 9.30-11.00am (Term Time) Toys and Games for all ages Activity Table for your little creators Coffee, Tea and Biscuits. Juice and Biscuits for children. £1 per child Village Hall, Church Lane, Oakley MK43 7RJ
TU ESDAY CHAT & MAKE Tuesdays 9am – 12pm (Term Time) Crafts, toys, songs, story and Crafts, toys, songs, story and refreshments £1. Term time for babies and toddlers 0-5. St Mark’s Church Community Centre Calder Rise, Bedford MK41 7UY Tel 01234 342613 PARK ROAD METHODIST CHURCH BABY & TODDLER GROUP Every Tuesday 9.30am-11.30am (in the hall). Roff Avenue, Bedford MK41 7TJ JELLITOTS Tues 10am – 11.30am (Term Time) Play, craft, stories and songs for babies and children 0-3yrs Tea, Biscuits & snacks. £1 per child. Church Lane Community Centre, Bedford MK41 0PW
W ED N ESDAY MAYPOLE FARM, KEMPSTON Wednesdays 9.30am – 11.00am Crafts, colouring, books and more. £1 per child. Fletcher Road, Bedfordshire MK42 7FY
TH U RSDSAY BROMHAM BAPTIST CHURCH MESS & MUSIC Thursdays 10:00 – 11:30am (term time only) Free-play and arts and crafts, followed by music- songs with instruments for babies and toddlers. Snack & drinks. No charge, donations welcome. Village Road Bromham Bedfordshire MK43 8LJ. Tel 01234 822681 CHAT AND PLAY Thursdays 9.45am (Term Time) Group for Mums & toddlers.0-5 St Mark’s Church Community Centre Calder Rise, Bedford MK41 7UY Tel 01234 342613 CLAPHAM PARISH CHURCH Little Monkeys Thursdays 9am (Term Time) Free Group for Mums & toddlers.0-5 St Mark’s Church Community Centre Calder Rise, Bedford MK41 7UY. Tel 01234 342613
BIDDENHAM U5’S PLAYGROUP Thursdays 9.30 – 11.30am £2 for up to 3 children. First time is free. Biddenham Village Hall, Nodders Way, Nodders Way, Biddenham Call 07854 974474
FRIDAY SALVATION ARMY LITTLE ANGELS TODDLER GROUP Fridays 9.30am – 11.30am (Term Time) Hour of free play, juice and biscuits provided followed by a time of singing. Suggested donation £1 Commercial Road Bedford MK40 1NY WILSTEAD TOTS & TODDLERS GROUP Fridays 9.30 – 11.30 (during term-time) Range of craft activities throughout the year. Singing, snacks and games. Wilstead Methodist Church Hall, 24 Dines Close, Wilstead MK45 3BU Tel 07811 235538 KINDER CAFE Fridays 1.30pm – 3.00pm (Term Time) Weekly cafe-style toddler group with children’s activities, singing & music, crafts, toys, coffee and snacks. Jubilation Centre, Moulton Avenue, Bedford MK42 0HL
ALL NATIO NS CH U RCH, BRICKHILL DRIVE, BEDFO RD M K41 7QF TEL 01234 273773 NEW MUMS & BABIES GROUP Weds 10.30am – 12.00pm. (Starting back 8th Jan) Mums are able to come along and get to know other mums. From time to time, depending on need and interest we put on talks on child development, baby weaning, play ideas etc. TODDLER GROUP Wednesdays, 1.30pm – 3.00pm (Term Time) Parents and carers of children aged from birth to 4 years are welcome to drop in, have a drink and chat while the children enjoy craft, play and music activities.
KIDS CLUB Wednesdays, 5.45pm – 7.00pm (Term Time) A mixture of games, quizzes and challenges, and each week we have a short bible story told through puppets, drama or interactive storytelling. TODDLERS FOR DADS Saturday 18th January, 10.00am – 12.00pm On the third Saturday morning of each month, this group gives dads the opportunity to meet up with other dads and join in with their children’s activities.
BedsLife Magazine cannot be held responsible for any changes, amends or cancellations of an event.
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Falcon Gymnastics Birthday Parties!
Location: Scott Primary School.
Saturday & Sunday Afternoons.
One hour fifteen minutes with
qualified gymnastics coaches and half hour in our party room.
Games • Air Track • Box •
Trampette • Floor • Beam • www.falcongym.com/Parties Hannah: 07854 789451
“Polam is great because it is like a mini family but at school”
OUTSTANDING NURSERY
– Year 2 pupil
CREATIVE CURRICULUM
INDOOR SWIMMING POOL
SPECIALIST MUSIC, LANGUAGES AND PE
Call 01234 261864 to book a Private Tour or see www.polamschool.co.uk for Open Days. Telephone: 01234 261864 admissions@polamschool.co.uk 43-45 Lansdowne Road, Bedford MK40 2BU
To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
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MENTAL HEALTH MATES BEDFORD Mental Health Mates is a network of peer support groups, run by people with mental health issues, who meet regularly to walk and talk without fear or judgement. You do not have to have a diagnosed mental health issue to join the walks – everyone has mental health and they are here for everyone. Mental Health Mates was started by Bryony Gordon in 2016. It was Bryony’s dream that walks would spring up all around the country and so far they have had walks in over 70+ locations including Europe, North America, Australia and the Middle East. Their aim is to empower both their leaders and attendees by providing resources and support to facilitate Mental Health Mates walks, growing their network of free peer-to-peer walks, so that everyone can find their “we”. Forthcoming Walks Sunday 26th January 10am-11am Sunday 9th February 10am-11am Sunday 23rd February 10am-11am Meet at The Pavilion, Bedford Park, MK40 2PF www.mentalhealthmates.co.uk
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PROBUS CLUB OF BEDFORD FOR RETIRED PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS MEN AND WOMEN “LADIES WE NEED YOU” What is Probus? It is an abbreviation for “Professional” & “Business” with members coming from all walks of life to meet other like-minded people. They are specifically looking to include ladies as many Probus Clubs are still men focused. Of course new male members are also very welcome! Meetings are held monthly in Bedford on the first Monday of the month from 12pm to 3pm and generally include a four course meal followed by club business and a speaker. Members who can recommend interesting speakers, are encouraged to come forward to assist in preparing the annual programme Social events are arranged wherever possible in the year across the spectrum to add interest & diversity. Golf, bowls etc, are also available based on common interests of the members. Interested persons should contact Peter Davies 01767 3178863 or e mail peter@24foxglove.co.uk.
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Local Company ~ Fully Insured T: 01234 510501 or 07870 338074 W: www.surecleancarpetcleaning.co.uk
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SERVICES
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SERVICES
AromaClean offer a friendly, reliable & honest domestic cleaning service tailored to your needs Police Checked & Fully Insured
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Call 07791 258341 or 07435 633986 or email Donna - aromaclean@mail.com To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
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BOOK REVIE
MAD GIRL by Bryony Gordon
Mental health is in the news a lot these days with high profile campaigns by the younger royals to raise awareness, and discussions over funding for people who need help. When we talk about mental health it helps to reduce the stigma surrounding the issues, and people have been shown to be more likely to seek help. And this is where the book by Daily Telegraph columnist Bryony Gordon comes in. This is a funny, inspiring, and frank look at mental illness as Bryony recounts her own personal experiences. Starting in her childhood when she developed OCD and bulimia she looks back on her experiences and doesn’t shy away from reality of her life back then. A pervasive fear that she had killed someone but had forgotten about it led to her to try to find some aspect of her life that she could control – which led to the bulimia. Each chapter then leads the reader through different phases of her life as it begins to spiral out of control with drug abuse, before an inspiring trip to the Arctic Circle as part of her job helps her to turn her life around. It was a slow process, but she finally decides to take control and starts on the journey that lead her to the present day. This is a must-read for everyone, regardless of how good, or otherwise your life currently is. We all struggle at times and Bryony’s story provides plenty of food for thought.
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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
Tel: 07847 307334 E | info@cmplastering.net W | www.cmplastering.net
FILM REVIEW
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: bromhamwindows007@gmail.com
KNIVES OUT
Knives out is a modern version of an Agatha Christie classic murder mystery done to perfection.
It takes all the tropes and expectations you would want from a Marple or Poirot story and puts them into a modern location, though it does still look and feels as if it could be set in the 1930’s. One of the stand out things about Knives Out is that it looks absolutely amazing! The setting of an old house/mansion is perfect for the theme, everything looks like it was chosen for a reason. To add to the film and to enhance the viewers experience of the film.
Of course this wouldn’t matter in the slightest if the mystery wasn’t any good. It is no surprise though that the writing has had as much attention put into it as the look. The mystery is as good as any that it is basing itself on. The terrific cast, full of big names, lead you on a merry stroll, taking you round the wrong corners, dropping clues and red herrings all over the place. Knives out is a film where you can have fun trying to unravel the mystery or just enjoying watching the all-star cast in action.
Simon White To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
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Follow what’s happening in Bedford
info@lovebedford.co.uk @lovebedford www.facebook.com/lovebedford @lovebedford1 For all the latest events and town centre directory please visit the BedfordBID website
www.lovebedford.co.uk
SERVICES
Richard Woodward & Associates Specialist Will writers | Powers of Attorney | Probate | Free Home Visits
It would have been
SO EASY For BOB & ANN To upgrade their Wills This is BOB & ANN YEAR after YEAR Bob and Ann had put off upgrading their Wills, if they had made Specialist Wills called ‘Protective Property Trusts’ they would have legally protected 50% of the value of their home from being used to pay Care Fees. A Pair of Property Trust Wills £250 Single standard Wills £85 | Pairs £150 Any 2 Lasting Powers of Attorney £375 + registration fees
Tel: 01480 290060
Richard Says
DON’T PUT IT OFF
THIS YEAR AS
WELL
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Atlantic Autos 12 Darlington Close, Sunderland Road, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 1RW
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• Servicing • Exhausts • Tyres • Brakes • Clutches • Shock Absorbers • Batteries • Courtesy Cars Available • Performance Upgrades • M.O.T testing While You Wait • Air Conditioning
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To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
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OneShop ROOFING MERCHANTS
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OPEN: 6.30am - 4.30pm t: 01234 912020 OPEN: 6.30am 4.30pm MONDAY – FRIDAY 7.30am -11.30am SATURDAY MONDAY - FRIDAY e: sales@oneshoprm.uk
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Tel: 01234 843326 Email: richesskips@aol.com www.paul-riches-skips.com
R.J.S Building & Maintenance Sevices
Extensions ~ Garden walls ~ Driveways Relay & Repairs of existing Driveways & Patios Jet washing of driveways, patios & garden walls Gutter cleaning ~ Garden clearance
Any work undertaken, No job too small
Call Richard James Saunders on
01234 343645 or 07780 331052 To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
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OUR 2020 VISION… What’s your vision for 2020? Maybe losing weight, joining the gym or trying to change yourself in some way? How would it feel if you could make a difference to someone’s life just by being you? Our 2020 vision is to encourage you to make a different type of New Year’s Resolution – to volunteer your time to become a Befriender and visit people in Bedford’s care homes, to help them feel like they’ve not been forgotten. We have a huge challenge on our hands in 2020 as the requests for Befrienders increase month on month. Some families can’t visit because they live too far away, some have no family or friends. Others find it too painful and overwhelming to sit with a family member with dementia or an illness. The elderly need care and compassion and you could be the Befriender that provides them with the human touch they so desperately need. There are no qualifications or care skills required as we will give you the necessary training and support. You can choose the day and time of your visit, all we
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ask is for 1 hour a week or fortnight whenever fits in with your schedule. “I have always wanted to volunteer but there was always work, home and life that got in the way. I work fulltime but decided to bite the bullet and I have not regretted it.” Chris Alternatively, if you have professional skills that can help us or you are great with arts and crafts, singing or making people laugh then please contact us. Our 2020 vision is clear; is yours? Could yours be just to have a look at our website, social media pages or calling us to find out more? Giving your time rather than trying to change yourself can actually have a greater impact for you as well as the person you’re visiting. Make 2020 the year YOU really make a difference. Please contact Pauline@friendsforlifebedford.org.uk, or call 07460 575410 for more information.
What’sON ARTS & CRAFTS, TALKS & DEMONSTRATIONS
BEDFORD LOCAL GROUP OF THE WILDLIFE TRUST Wednesday 8th January Meeting 7.15pm for 7.30pm ‘The Wildlife of Skokholm and Grassholm’ An illustrated talk by Barrie Plenty of parking available, All welcome. 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 01234 266057 BEDFORDSHIRE FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY Friday 10th January 7.15 p.m. Interested in Family History? Then come along to our talk on A Convict in the Family by Margaret Butt Drama Hall, Mark Rutherford School Wentworth Drive, Bedford MK41 8PX Members free, visitors £1. www.bfhs.org.uk HARDY PLANT SOCIETY, CAMBS & BEDS Saturday 11th January 2.00pm Twigs Way will be speaking about ‘The Chrysanthemum in Art and Culture’. NB not our usual date! Visitors very welcome £4 including refreshments. The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JH THE FRIENDS OF THE HIGGINS Tuesday 14th January 7.30 pm ‘Berthold Walpe: The Total Man’ Illustrated talk by Professor Phil Cleaver and Deborah Wolpe Friends £4, Guests £9 The Higgins, Castle Lane, Bedford MK40 3XD www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk EMBROIDERERS GUILD, BEDFORD BRANCH Thursday 16th January 7.30pm for 8.00pm Betty Ball will be talking about ‘Colour play’. More info on Bedford Embroiderers Guild on Facebook. Visitors welcome £4. St Mark’s Church Hall, Calder Rise, Bedford, MK41 7UY
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BEDFORD RSPB LOCAL GROUP Thursday 16th January 7.15pm for 7.30pm Tom Barker – see how a honeymoon sightseeing trip turned out with a presentation entitled “Honeymoon Birding around the World”. Suitable for Experts and Novices, RSPB membership not essential. Entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 annual group membership £5. The facilities, including refreshments, are at ground level and there is secure parking. Meet at ARA club, Manton Lane Bedford MK41 7PF Reg.Charity No. 207076, more info www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford AN EVENING OF CLAIRVOYANCE Saturday 18th January 7.30pm With Wayne Marriott from The Open Circle; exploring the world of the supernatural. Tickets £15 (£1 b/fee) www.sharnbrookmilltheatre/tickets /Pick-a-Lily, Florists, Sharnbrook Sharnbrook Mill Theatre MK44 1NP Registered Charity; for Theatre Cool-Down Appeal BEDFORD NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION Tuesday January 21st 2.30pm Speaker Nick Cookeon “ The Great Train Robbery” Everyone welcome. No need to book. Just come along. Addison Centre, Kempston MK42 8PN Plenty of parking space. For further information please ring Betty Thomas on 01480 860 421
COMMUNITY TABLE TOP SALE Sat 11th January 9am to Noon Entry 50p Refreshments available, Tables £5 – must be prebooked. Christ the King Parish Hall Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP For information call on 01234 965497 AFTERNOON VINTAGE TEA Friday 24th January 2pm to 4pm Admission £4 – Tea, home-made cake and friendship Christ the King Parish Hall Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP For Information call 01234 326291
FAMILY JACK AND THE BEANSTALK FAMILY PANTO Saturday 11th January 2pm Soft refreshments and sweets/ice cream available to purchase Tickets £8pp available to purchase from Parish and Village Hall Offices Bromham Village Hall, Village Rd, Bromham, MK43 8JP Tel 01234 822600
WHAT’S ON 0-5 LIVE Saturday 11th January 1pm – 5pm The first ever 0-5 Live, the fair dedicated to 0-5year olds. Showcasing classes, products, activities, play & local businesses. Preschoolers can expect a visit from a number of characters from popular TV shows and books! Photo sessions, story times and sing-a-long! Softplay & other free activities, Over 20 taster classes, Stallholders, So much more! £1 entry & free parking. UNDER 1’s FREE Bedford International Athletic Stadium, Barkers Lane, Bedford MK41 9SB GAME PLAY ALL DAY Saturday January 11th 10am – 6pm A whole day dedicated to family friendly games and experiences. Suitable for ages 7-106. Entrance for the Day: £3 or £10 for parties of 4. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford MK40 3DE TRACK PLAY Saturday 18th January 10am – 4.40pm A fun day of playing with over 500 feet of Thomas track and over 100 engines to choose from. Let your kids experience a fun day with Thomas and his friends. Pay and play for an hour or book multiple sessions. Book now to avoid disappointment, details of the slots available at www.trackplay.co.uk/events/bedford-christ-church-2 Christ Church Bedford,140 Dudley St, Bedford MK40 3SX
LUNCH TIME PIANO CONCERT Wednesday 29th January 1pm-2pm Hosted by YuZhou Zhang – London-based concert pianist and violinist St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SQ
PARK RUNS GREAT DENHAM NEW YEARS DAY PARK RUN Wednesday 1st January 10.30am – 11.30am Kickstart the new year with a special edition New Year’s Day parkrun. Meet us in the amphitheatre by the playground, and join in a run, jog or walk for two laps around Great Denham Country Park. (And if you’re really keen, you can do a double by joining our sister parkrun in Bedford for their New Year’s Day run, starting at 9:00am!) **We’re looking for volunteers to make sure the event can go ahead because, as you can imagine, some of the more regular volunteers will be away visiting family and friends. If you’d like to volunteer, please email us at greatdenham@parkrun.com Queen Eleanor Drive, Great Denham MK40 4SQ
QUIZ NIGHTS MUSIC, DANCE & THEATRE ALIVE AND SINGING – CHOIR TASTER SESSION Wednesday 8th January 7.30pm – 9.30pm Come along to our taster session for free and find out what our community choir is all about. We sing pop and rock songs both old and new. There are no auditions and everyone is welcome. So if you love to sing and are looking for a new hobby, come along to our taster session and see if we are right for you. All information about how to join will be given at the event. Wootton New Life Methodist Church, 67 Cause End Rd, Bedford MK43 9DE MUSIC ON THURSDAYS Julia Doyle (soprano) and Matthew Wadsworth (lute) Thursday 23rd January 7.45pm Songs by Purcell, Monteverdi, Strozzi, Caccini, Merula Bunyan Meeting Tickets £18, Students 18-25 £5, Under-18 £2 on the door or from 01234 261811 www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk
WINE QUIZ AND CURRY EVENING In Aid of Beds and Northants MS Therapy Centre Thursday 23rd January 7pm – 10pm Beat the January chills with a lovely hot buffet meal at the popular Indian Summer Restaurant. This has been teamed with a Wine Quiz for some additional fun! Extensive knowledge of wine is NOT necessary but a love of good food, wine and a fun night out with friends certainly is! Vegetarians will be catered for. Book your team at £16 pp (maximum 6 in a team) now on Eventbrite or by calling 01234 325781 or emailing fundraising@mscentrebedsandnorthants.com (no booking fees). QUIZ NIGHT Friday 24th January 7.30pm start. Tickets £8.00 includes fish and chips. Bar and raffle Christ the King Parish Hall Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP For information call on 01234 965497
BedsLife Magazine cannot be held responsible for any changes, amends or cancellations of an event. For more What’s On visit www.bedslifemagazine 33
LONDON COMMUNITY GOSPEL CHOIR
Sat. 1st February, 7pm Bromham Baptist Church
£15 adults / £10 concessions Tickets: 01234 822681 or www.bromham.org
UPLIFTING ENTERTAINMENT AT MILTON KEYNES THEATRE!
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02/12/2019 12:06
Fully trained and supervised Home Helps. Thorough vetting and DBS checks on all workers. Regular daily or weekly visits to suit your needs. A variety of payment methods including monthly invoicing.
78–82 Bromham Road, Bedford MK40 2QH Tel: 01234 360 510
www.ageukbedfordshire.org.uk
To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
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Discover the New Military Medals and Books Shop • Cabinet spaces to rent • Research work available • Specialised books • Big variety of antique military medals • Military related items • Run on volunteer basis • Profits donated to the charity Woody’s Lodge
Come and visit us at: 20, Deep Spinney, Biddenham, Bedford MK40 4QH Open Thursday to Saturday from 10.00 am to 16.00pm www.militarymedalsandbooks.co.uk | 01234 224491
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SERVICES
To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
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JANUARY EVENTS BEDFORD CENTRAL LIBRARY HARPUR ST, BEDFORD MK40 1PG TEL 01234 718178 Thursday 2nd January 12:00pm – 3:30pm Stay and Play Join us for fun and games. Saturday 4th January 11:00am – 3.00pm Robin Craft Help us decorate for our Winter display with colourful robins. Regular Events Baby Rhymetime for 0 – 18 months – Monday 11.30 to 12.00 Story and Rhymetime – Tuesday 2.00 to 2.30 Story and Rhymetime – Thursday 11.30 to 12.00 Lego Club – Saturday 11.00 to 12.00 Sunday is Fun Day – Sunday 11.30 to 1.30
BROMHAM LIBRARY SPRINGFIELD DRIVE, BEDFORD MK43 8NT TEL 01234 824391 Thursday 2nd January 2:00pm – 5:00pm Scratch Art Birds How colourful will your birds be? Friday 3rd January 10:00am – 12:00pm Weaving Craft Join us to weave a rainbow tortoise to take home. Saturday 4th January 10:30am – 12:30pm Snowflake Pictures Create your own unique snowflake. Regular Events Knit and Knatter – Monday 2.15 to 4.00 Lego and Colouring Club for Children (Term Time Only) – Tuesday and Thursday 2.00 to 5.00 Rhymetime for Under 5s (Term Time Only) – Wednesday 11.00 to 11.30 Board Games Day – Friday 10.00 to 5.00 Craft Club for Children (term time only) – Saturdays 10.30 – 12.30
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KEMPSTON LIBRARY 32 HALSEY RD, KEMPSTON MK42 8AT TEL 01234 276453 Thursday 2nd January 10am – 4:30pm Scratch Art Bookmarks Missed out on the snowman bookmarks? Don’t worry! You can make these fabulous Scratch Art bookmarks instead. Friday 3rd January 2:00pm – 5:00pm New Year Goal Cards What will your New Year resolutions? Write them down and decorate your goal cards. Saturday 4th January 10am – 3:30pm Winter Mitten Pictures Get all frosty with these wintery mitten pictures. Regular Events Storytime – Monday 2.15 to 2.45 Creative Writing Group – Monday (1st working Monday of the month) – 3.30 to 4.45 Lego Club – Monday and Friday 2.00 to 5.00 Games Galore – Tuesday (fortnightly) 2.00 to 3.30 Dice Warriors Games Club (for children) – Tuesday 3.30 to 5.00 Rhymetime – Tuesday 11:00 to 11:30 Wiggles and Jiggles for children under 1 – Tuesday 2.00 to 2.30 Adult Craft Club – Wednesday 2.30 to 4.00 (ask staff for dates) Adults Colouring Club – Wednesday 2.00 to 3.00 Children’s Colouring Club – Wednesday 3.00 to 5.00 Wiggles and Jiggles for children under 1 – Thursday 11.00 to 11.30 Dice Warriors Games Club (for children) – Thursday 3.30 to 5.00 IT Buddy Sessions (book your appointment at the library) – Thursday 10:00 to 12:00 Knit and Knatter – Thursday 2.00 to 3.00 Saturday Kids Club – Saturday 10.00 to 3.30
PUTNOE LIBRARY LIBRARY WALK, PUTNOE ST, BEDFORD MK41 8HQ TEL 01234 276462 Thursday 2nd January 10:30am – 4:00pm Glow in the Dark Pictures Drop in to design a glow in dark picture for your bedroom wall.
Friday 3rd January 2:30am – 4:00pm Polar Bear Crafts Everyone loves polar bears! Saturday 4th January 10:00am – 3:00pm Design paper hat and gloves Calling all fashion lovers! Drop in to design and make your own hat and gloves set. Regular Events Knit and Knatter – 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 10.00 to 11.30 Rhymetime (Term Time Only) – 1st Tuesday of the month from 11.00 to- 11.30 Board Games Club for Adults – 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month from 10.00 to 11.30 Rhymetime (Term Time Only) – Thursday from 2.30 to 3.00 Adult Colouring Club – Friday from 2.00 to 3.30 Storytime (Term Time Only) – Friday from 2:30 to 3:00 Saturday Vibe (children’s craft session) – Saturday from 10.00 to 3.30 Jigsaw Swap Session – 1st Saturday of the month from 10.00 to 3.00
WOOTTON LIBRARY LORRAINE ROAD, WOOTTON MK43 9LH TEL 01234 766061 Thursday 2nd January 10.00am – 11.30am Finger Painting Time to get messy!
Friday 3rd January 2.00pm – 4.30pm Snowman Collage The glue will be out so let’s get sticky creating a snowman collage. Saturday 4th January 11.00am – 12.30pm Lucky Dip Crafts Catch up on all the crafts you missed! Regular Events Fun Time for Under 5s – Monday 2.30 to 2.50 Colouring Club – Monday, Thursday and Friday 3.30 to 4.30 Lego Club – Monday, Wednesday and Friday 3.45 to 4.45 Baby Fun Time – Tuesday from 10.15 to 10.45 Board Games Club – Tuesday from 2.00 to 4.00 (LibraryPlus members only) Bridge Club – Tuesday from 13.45 to 4.00 (LibraryPlus members only) Are you sitting comfortably? Storytelling for adults – Wednesday from 2.30 to 3.30 Storytime with Ted for Pre-school Children – Thursday from 10.30 to 10.50 Crafty Thursdays – Thursday from 10.30 to 11.30 Tiddlers and Toddlers (18 months to 4 years) – Friday from 2.15 to 2.45 Knit and Knatter – Friday from 2.00 to 3.00 Children’s Jigsaw Club – Saturday from 11.00 to 12.30 Lego Club – Saturday from 11.00 to 12.30 For more information and regular events visit www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries
Caring for your home
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Sue 07792 369102 citruscleanuk@gmail.com To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
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PRIZE CROSSWORD Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this section and send to the address below before Friday 10th January. Prize Crossword, BedsLife, 17 Foxbrook, Stevington, Bedfordshire MK43 7QY Last Months Crossword Winner –Sheila English, Turvey
ACROSS 1 4 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 18 21
Informal gathering (6) Intolerant person (5) Bloodsucking worm (5) Exceptional, particular (7) Funeral procession (7) Lazy (4) Short sleep (3) Fakir, mystic (4) Admire, commend (4) Winner’s trophy (3) ____ and hearty (4)
23 Salad vegetable (7) 25 Branched horns (7) 26 Sibling’s daughter (5) 27 Large wading bird (5) 28 Smouldering pieces of coal (6)
DOWN 1 2 3 4
Join two ends (6) Casual farewell (7) Physically strong, fit (8) Infuse, ferment (4)
Name: Address:
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5 Association, society (5) 6 Steering lever on a boat (6) 7 Pale with shock or fear (5) 13 Precious metal (8) 16 Four stringed instrument (7) 17 Sword case (6) 19 Deluxe, lavish (5) 20 Splits, cuts apart (6) 22 Subsequently (5) 24 Long period of time (4)
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SERVICES
Motorbike & Car Mechanic Rushden based with 25 years of experience Servicing, diagnostics, customisations For friendly and professional advice Honest service and reasonable rates. www.facebook.com/toowheelsormore Tel: 07900 090074 44
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BEDFORD BLUES Just before Christmas though, Bedford Blues were delighted to hand over a cheque for £11,122 to Macmillan Cancer Support following another incredible Ladies Day back in October.
With 2019 behind them, Bedford Blues will be jumping into the new year full of vigour as they look to climb the Greene King IPA Championship table. Following a Christmas break, the Blues have a busy January with an away trip to London Scottish before welcoming Hartpury to Goldington Road on Saturday 18th January – tickets are available at www.bedfordrugby.co.uk. The month ends with the monumental journey down to Penzance to face the Cornish Pirates.
Bedford supporters were again extremely generous in their support of Macmillan for the 12th annual ‘Pink Day’ at Goldington Road with the Blues faithful helping the club to raise the staggering amount of funds through collections, auctions, raffles and much more, aided by the large attendance of nearly 3,300 for the local derby with Ampthill. With the help of the fantastic Macmillan volunteers, and of course the Blues loyal supporters, Goldington Road was transformed into an odyssey of pink and green for the day which saw the club yet again, break the record for the amount of funds raised.
New Year... New You! Accomplish your New Year’s resolutions & embark on a happy, healthy, fit, fun & fulfilling 2018 We offer diet & nutrition advice, Fitness plans tailored to your specific requirements and a full health screening to maximise your new you!
Migraines Tennis Elbow Frozen Shoulder Nerve & Sciatic Pain Sports Injuries/ Gym injuries
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SPORTS& ACTIVITES ARCHERY Ouse Valley Archers Thursdays 7.00pm – 9.00pm and Sundays 2.00pm – 4.00pm Run by Archery GB approved coaches. 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 Friendly club welcoming anyone who does or has played badminton. Wootton Upper School, Hall End, Wootton, Beds, MK43 9HT woottonbadmclub@gmail.com www. woottonbedfordbadmintonclub. weebly.com
BASKETBALL / DODGEBALL Bedford Thunder Basketball Club Mini Basketball (Reception to Yr 5) Sundays 9.30am – 11am U14s Development (Yr 6 to Yr 9) Sundays 11am – 12.30pm U18’s Session (Yr 10 to Yr 13) Sundays 2pm – 3.30pm Bedford Academy, Mile Road, Bedford MK42 9TR For information email coach@ bedfordthunder.com
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Bedford Thunder Basketball for Girls Saturday 3pm to 4.30pm Aimed at new players £3 per session and runs on a payas-you-play 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. Or visit www.thisgirlcan. bedfordthunder.com Bedford Mighty Eagles Dodgeball Team Tuesdays 7pm-9pm A club that plays at a high level but welcomes anyone from any sporting ability and background. 15yrs or over. Men’s and women’s squad. £3 per session – First session free. Training is at Wootton Upper School, Hall End Road, MK43 9HT
BOWLS Become a Wheelstar at Kempston Bowls Indoor Bowls Club Every Tuesday 12pm till 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 for 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. Free taster session followed by 4 coaching sessions at a time to suit you. Bowls and bowls shoes provided for your lessons. Superb facilities. Tel 01234 852291 290 Hillgrounds Road Kempston MK42 8UB www.kempstonparkbowls.co.uk
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Bromham Short Mat Bowling Club Tuesdays 7.00 pm – 9.30 pm (year round) Monday afternoons 2.00 pm – 4.30 pm (September to June only) First two sessions are free and where training can be given. Just bring a pair of flat shoes. Bromham Village Hall, Village Rd, Bromham, MK43 8JP Contact Sue Amor on 01234 823610 for more details Mowsbury Park Bowls Club Taster Days Wednesday or Friday 2pm to 4.30pm. Outdoor season starts at the beginning of May until midSeptember. Try lawn bowls for FREE. Just bring flat shoes. Entrance is via Wentworth Drive 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, all equipment provided. Just wear flat shoes. Check our website www.boroughbowlin.org. uk or telephone 01234 340736 for more details Bedford Bowling Club Welcome Sessions Tuesday and Friday 2pm – 4pm Warm, friendly club and the green is in a sheltered 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. For full information ring Ray on 305695, Warwick on 403551, or Alison on 343257.
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! 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.
PARKOUR / FREERUNNING
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. Our aim is to provide children of all abilities with a unique footballing experience, developing physical, social and communication skills. www.bedfordfcminisoccer.com.
Falcon SA Gymnastics Club Saturdays 1.15pm to 2.15pm Scott Primary School, Hawk Drive, Bedford. Boys and girls between the ages of 7 and 14. Fusing traditional gymnastics and acrobatics with tricks and stunts made famous from the movies. This includes rolling climbing, swinging, vaulting, jumping, plyometrics, as well as learning flics and somersaults in a safe and inclusive environment with qualified coaches. www.falcongym.com
GYMNASTICS
RUGBY
Falcon SA Gymnastics Club Weekday evenings from 4.45pm Saturday Mornings Scott Primary School, Hawk Drive, Bedford Gymnastics for boys and girls from 4 years, In a safe and friendly environment. Offering Floor work, apparatus and badges www.falcongym.com
KARATE GKR Karate Classes Wednesdays at 6.30pm to 7.30pm Anyone who turns up for a class who is not already a GKR student will get a free 1 hour training session. 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
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 Saturdays 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 www.parkrun.org.uk Bedford Junior Parkrun Sundays (4-14 year olds) Jubilee Park, Moulton Ave, Bedford MK42 0HL Weekly free 2k timed run for juniors but please register before your first run! Meet at the skate park 8.45am for warm up www.parkrun.org.uk/bedfordjuniors/
TABLE TENNIS Social Table Tennis Mondays & Tuesdays 7.30pm10.00pm 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 7.30pm9.30pm Call Harvey on 07884 938753 first.
WALKING FOOTBAL Walking Football Bedford (Established 2012) for all ages and abilities. Evening, Daytime and Women only sessions. For more details and to book your place please email: info@ walkingfootballbedford.co.uk www.walkingfootballbedford.co.uk
WALKING/ RAMBLING Bedford Rambling Club Small, friendly and sociable group who meet on Sunday and Monday mornings for 2-3 hour circular walks generally in and around the Bedford area. We are always looking for new members and non members are welcome to join us. Please visit our website or contact us for further information. https://bedfordramblingclub.org Email: bedfordramblingclub@gmail. com Phone: Sue 077889 54819
BedsLife Magazine cannot be held responsible for any changes, amends or cancellations of a listing. For loads more information on local Sports & Activities visit www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk
O N G IN IN JO E FE
Acorn Health Club
Protect your pet by joining the Acorn house health plan.
Please see our website www.acornhousevets.com/PetHealthPlans for further details on how to join online or call in at the practice to complete a simple application form which will include details of the full Agreement. Acorn House Veterinary Hospital, Linnet Way, Brickhill, Bedford MK41 7HN Web: www.acornhousevets.co.uk Email: info@acornhousevets.co.uk Acorn House Veterinary Hospital
T: 01234 261839
M A M M A RY CANCER IN DOGS
WHAT DO WE KNOW? All female dogs should receive a regular health check, which includes checking for lumps and swellings in the mammary glands (the breast tissue).
WHICH DOGS ARE MOST AT RISK? Unspayed dogs are at greatest risk, with one quarter of unspayed dogs developing mammary cancer within their lifetime. The earlier a bitch is spayed, the lower the risk of her developing mammary cancer in the future.
WHAT DOES MAMMARY CANCER FEEL LIKE?
Mammary cancer usually feels like lumps in the mammary tissue. Often these lumps are small and do not affect the fur or skin. Occasionally they can be very large and the skin over the top may be ulcerated (weeping and sore). Because dogs have 10 mammary glands, it is fairly common to find more than one lump in the same dog.
HOW IS MAMMARY CANCER DIAGNOSED?
Abnormal mammary lumps should be investigated by your veterinary surgeon, who will often recommend surgery to remove the lumps. The lumps can then be analysed at a laboratory to find out more. Some mammary tumours are benign, which means that they cannot spread elsewhere in the body and surgery is curative. Others are malignant, with the risk of them spreading
elsewhere in the body increasing with time. Some benign tumours can gradually change into malignant tumours. For these reasons, it is almost always the best option to remove a mammary lump as soon as it has been found. Even when tumours are malignant, many dogs will live normally for years after the tumour has been removed.
WHAT DOES SURGERY INVOLVE?
If a dog has just one or two mammary lumps, surgery to remove the lumps can be short and simple. If the lumps are very large, or there are many lumps occurring at once, a larger amount of skin and mammary tissue needs to be removed, and this can involve longer operations with the need for reconstructive surgery. Your veterinary surgeon may recommend blood tests and chest Xrays to make sure that your pet is otherwise healthy before surgery is carried out. At Acorn House Veterinary Hospital we have an Advanced Veterinary Practitioner in Surgery, and 24-hour nursing care for patients recovering from surgery. Our receptionists have plenty of biscuits and cuddles for our valued patients too! Contact us if you are worried about your pet.
To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
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Love cats?
We have volunteer roles at C ats Protection to suit people of any age, background or experience. You could become an Enquiries Volunteer offering help and advice over the phone, you could improve the welfare of feral cats by helping Trap, Neuter and Return (TNR) them so they lead happier and healthier lives. If you are a fashionista you could volunteer in our charity shop by creating exciting window displays that entice shoppers or even become a Fosterer and look after the cats & kittens in our care until they find a loving forever home. You could use existing skills or even try something completely new and different – there really is a role for everyone. C ontact us today or join us at our Volunteer Information Day on 11th May between 11am - 3pm at 44 Harpur Street, Bedford.
T: 0345 260 2505 E: helpline@bedford.cats.org.uk W: bedford.cats.org.uk Reg C harity 203644 (England and Wales) and SC 037711 (Scotland)
VOL_1391-5
N E W Y E A R , N E W YO U A N D A N E W CHANCE FOR HOMELESS PETS The start of the year is an opportunity for selfreflection and setting resolutions: it’s time to let out with the old and in with the new. Outgrown habits and unnecessary clutter make way for positive changes, new experiences and a more fulfilling lifestyle. By donating your pre-loved items to Wood Green, The Animals Charity, you can make space at home whilst making a real difference to pets in need. The clothes you once cherished, the bits and bobs that need a loving new home and the furniture that doesn’t fit with your latest home makeover can still spark joy for others – and pets too! When you donate to Wood Green you can declutter your home whilst helping to raise funds that transform pets’ lives, and it couldn’t be easier as Wood Green will collect them from you for free.
Registered Charity Number 298348 00480ks1219
The charity has helped almost 7,000 animals in the past year, from urgent veterinary treatment and care through to a dedicated response to
pet advice enquiries. Wood Green is on hand around the clock for homeless pets across three rehoming centres in Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire and London. The support does not end there, as Wood Green is also there to help pet owners through the provision of behavioural advice, informative workshops and training classes. None of this life-saving work would be possible without the kind donations of new or pre-loved items that local community members no longer want. The charity will gratefully receive donations of clothing, bric-a-brac, furniture, electrical items and more. To donate your items to Wood Green, The Animals Charity please visit your local charity shop at 26 Allhallows in Bedford or Unit 5, Saxon Centre in Kempston. To arrange a free collection, contact the team on 01480 434 000 or email shop.donations@woodgreen.org.uk
The bits and bobs that need a loving new home. Donate your pre-loved items at our charity shops, or get in touch and we’ll collect from you – for free! Make space at home, make a difference to pets in need
Contact us on 01480 434 000 or email shopdonations@woodgreen.org.uk To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
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GARDENING
WITCH HAZEL January is a great time to plant deciduous trees and at this time of year a tree with added winter interest is always a welcome sight. Enter the witch hazel. These lovely trees with their citrus-scented spidery flowers are widely sold in garden centres as container-grown plants Look for plants with a number of evenly distributed well-placed branches and avoid those showing signs of stress, damage or disease.
The only soil witch hazels won’t tolerate is a shallow chalky soil. And make sure you don’t plant them out if the ground is waterlogged.
Ideally choose an open, sunny position in the garden. They also work well if planted next to pathways and doors where you can enjoy their gorgeous scent on wintery days. Avoid very shady sites though or the plant may become straggly
Witch hazels grow slowly but eventually make large spreading shrubs. They aren’t fond of pruning so make sure you leave enough space around your plant for it can develop naturally. Make sure they are well-watered throughout the first couple of springs and summers as they take a long time to fully establish and lack of moisture can cause flowers to drop.
Witch hazels need free-draining soil that doesn’t dry out in summer. A light soil mixed with plenty of organic matter, such as well-rotted manure or compost, is best. They will also grow on heavier clay soils but make sure that as well as digging in plenty of organic matter you ensure good drainage by planting on a slight mound, about 25-30cm (10in-1ft) high and 1m (3½ft) in diameter.
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They don’t need regular feeding but applying a top dressing of a general in late winter or early spring will help young plants to grow. Happy New Year and Happy Gardening!
GARDENING
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26 Singer Way, Woburn Road Industrial Estate, Kempston, Bedfordshire, MK42 7AE To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
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GARDENING
SIROCOCCUS BLIGHT (CEDAR BLIGHT) Sirococcus blight caused by the fungus Sirococcus tsugae was initially identified in 2013 as the causal organism causing severe shoot blight and defoliation of Atlantic cedar. Although mainly seen on Atlantic Cedar this disease can infect Deodar cedar (C. deodara) as well as Hemlock (Tsuga species). Unmanaged this disease can cause considerable damage to valuable ornamental trees in public and private gardens.
Foliar symptoms are seen in the spring to include dead needles on the shoots, dead shoots, cankers and gum exudation. The key sign of Sirococcus blight is the fact that the dead needles turn a distinctive characteristic ‘pink’ colour that becomes brown as the season progresses. Using a hand lens the fruiting bodies may be observed on the needles and twigs. Infected branches may display cankering symptoms which are characterised by a change of bark colour from green to a darker red/purple. Resin bleeding from the bark can sometimes be observed and branches, if girdled, will die. There are limited control measures against S. tsugae have been reported to date. Diseased needles should be collected and destroyed in autumn. Fertilisation will maintain tree vigour and possibly help offset the deleterious effects of premature defoliation. Sprays with the fungicide mancozeb may provide some degree of protection but repeat sprays will need to be performed through-out the growing season. Phosphite sprays and/or soil drenches to stimulate tree vitality as part of a fertiliser programme may help in the short term but their effectiveness against this disease has not been tested.
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
Bedfordshire
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GARDENING
Guttering Problems?
For All Your Landscaping Needs Landscaping:
Maintenance:
-F Fencing -P Patios -D Decking -T Turfing -G Gravelling
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Professional Service, FREE Quotes, Fully Insured & All Waste Removed. T: 01234 960690 M: 07889 920435 www.tpigardenservices.co.uk
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• Gutters cleaned • Leaking gutters repaired • New guttering fitted All by a friendly, local, established company Call Rob on
01234 480244 or 07977 206403
EDEN TREE SPECIALISTS
01234 960796
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Careful felling and sectional dismantling of trees
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Tree and hedge planting TPO and conservation Area applications ARB Approved Contractors Free quotations and advice given
BEDSLIFE DIRECTORY AMERICAN VEHICLE SERVICE CENTRE Atlantic Autos
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ARTIFICIAL GRASS Artificial Grass & Turf Solutions Easi Grass Prestige Lawns
53 55 56
BATHROOMS/BEDROOMS Dream Doors QP Interiors
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BUILDERS High Point Construction 43 RJS 29 CARPENTRY D C Carpentry
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CARPETS & FLOORING A&A Carpets
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CHARITy Age UK Cats Protection Friends for Life Wood Green Animal Shelter
35 31 51
CHILDREN’S BIRTHDAY PARTIES Falcon Gymnastics Birthday Parties
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CHIMNEY SWEEP The Black Horse Chimney Sweep
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CHIROPRACTOR Bedford Chiropractic Clinic
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CLEANING Aroma Clean 23 CitrusClean 39 10 J&D Window Cleaning Sureclean 21 CLOCK SALES & REPAIRS Bedford Clocks
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COMPUTER REPAIR/MAINTENANCE/ SALES Oakley IT 43
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CURTAINS & BLINDS Emperor Blinds
60
DANCE LESSONS Footsteps School of Dancing
60
DOG WALKING & PET SERVICES Fetch ‘N’ Go
60
EDUCATION Polam 19 ELECTRICAL GOODS / REPAIRS JB Domestic
25
ELECTRICIAN Craddock Electrical DH Electrical
43 41
EVENTS Bedford Daycare Hospice
2
FUNERAL SERVICES Neville Funeral Service
62
FURNITURE RESTORATION HC Restorations
60
GARAGE DOORS Almond Garage Doors 61 Garolla 17 GARDEN SEVICES/SUPPLIES Beaver Sheds 53 Bryan Johnson 61 LWS 53 M J Nicholson 61 Mr Fix Property Maintenance 20 Sureclean 21 TPI 53 Whites Lawnmower Repairs 61 GRAPHIC DESIGN Doug Dawson Creative
41
GUTTERING SERVICES MK Guttering
56
HAIRDRESSER Deborah Mobile Hairdresser
61
HOUSE CLEARANCE Bedford House Clearance
61
KITCHENS Dream Doors F and D Kitchens
7 37
LAWNMOWER REPAIRS Whites Lawnmower Repairs
61
LEISURE & ENTERTAINMENT Cineworld 40 Milton Keynes Theatre 34 LOCKSMITH A Rocket
21
LOFT LADDERS Home counties Loft Ladders
9
ROOFING Bridge Roofing 11 Bucks Roofing 29 Nu-Look Conservatory Roof Solutions 11 ROOFING MERCHANTS OneShop 28 SKIP HIRE Paul Riches Skips
29
STOVES Cromwell Stoves
11
TAXI/AIRPORT TRANSFER Ace Cars
10
TILING Dave Moore Tiling
27
MOTORBIKE/CAR MECHANIC Too Wheels or More
44
PAINTING & DECORATING Bromham Painting & Decorating Craig Johnson David Lower Decorating
TREE SURGEONS Bartlett Tree Experts Eden Tree Specialists
54 57
17 21 60
UPHOLSTERY M&S Upholstery
60
PLASTERER CM Plastering CP Ceilings Craig Johnson
24 20 21
VEHICLE HIRE Rent Xpress
61
VETS Acorn House
48
PLUMBING & HEATING Aquasure Plumbing Bliss Plumbing & Heating C M Plumbing & Heating T R Donnelly
24 22 7 61
WILL WRITING RWA Legal The Will Writing Company
27 63
PODIATRY / CHIROPODY / FOOTCARE Feet To Go Mr Rob Foot Clinic
41 60
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CP Ceilings 20 HomeFix 22 20 Mr Fix Property Maintenance
WINDOWS, DOORS & CONSERVATORIES Bromham Windows 25 Cloudy2Clear 64 44 Kempston Windows WINDOW CLEANING J&D Window Cleaning
10
YOGA CLASSES Yoga in Bedford
19
To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
59
CLASSIFIEDS
CLOCK SALES & REPAIRS
Clock Repairs • Clock Sales Call Michael:
01234 217104 Associate member of the British Horological institute for 25 years
www.bedfordclocks.co.uk OLD CLOCKS WANTED FOR PARTS
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
DANCING LESSONS Footsteps School of Dancing Classes start week commencing 6th January 2020 Come and Learn the Social/Foxtrot & Cha Cha Cha
FURNITURE RESTORATION ANTIQUE & MODERN FURNITURE REPAIR AND RESTORATION IN BEDFORDSHIRE
Held at the Edward Peake Middle School Biggleswade. Reserve your place at the website below. Sequence Every Friday Night at the Arlesey WI Hall Come and learn New & Old dances. All times and prices can be found at the website below or just give us a call.
Our Holidays are nearly sold out so if you would like to join us in 2020 you can secure your place online WWW.footstepsschoolofdancing.co.uk Nigel@footstepsschoolofdancing.co.uk Telephone 01462-673895 or 07713577413
DOG WALKING SERVICES
RESTORERS OF ANTIQUE & MODERN FURNITURE. FRENCH POLISHING. French Polishing&•MODERN Kitchen FURNITURE. Worktop Sand & Re-oil RESTORERS OF ANTIQUE FRENCH POLISHING. HAYDN CLARKE Desk Leathers Supplied & Fitted • On-Site French Polishing HAYDN CLARKE Work Insurance, Fire & Flood work TEL:Undertaken 01923 252738 MOBILE: 07958 710979 59 TEL: ELSTOW KEMPSTON, BEDS. MK428HH Collection & Delivery 01923ROAD, 252738 MOBILE: 07958 710979
E-MAIL: HCRESTORATIONS@SKY.COM WWW.HCRESTORATIONS.CO.UK 59Haydn ELSTOW ROAD, KEMPSTON, BEDS. MK428HH Call on 01234 851 624 or 07958 710 979 E-MAIL: HCRESTORATIONS@SKY.COM WWW.HCRESTORATIONS.CO.UK hcrestorations@sky.com • www.hcrestorations.co.uk
FOOTCARE
Mr. ROB FOOT CLINIC ROBERT TARNOVEANU MCFHP MAFHP
Registered member of the British Association of Foot Health Professionals
• Fungal Nails • Ingrown Toenail • Corns & Calluses • Nail Trimming MOBILE FOOT HEALTH PRACTITIONER
BEDFORD AREA
THE STABLES THERAPY CENTRE 108 MILTON RD, CLAPHAM. MK416AS
07389 185073
robfootclinic.co.uk 60
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CLASSIFIEDS
GARAGE DOORS 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 BOOK YOUR WINTER SERVICE NOW!
HAIRDRESSER
DEBORAH
MOBILE HAIRDRESSER BEDFORD Perms, Cuts, Colours - highlights etc Special Occasions and Wedding Hair
01234 210337 07976 394798
Deborah mobile hairdresser yell (Bedford)
HEATING SERVICES
T.R.Donnelly
HEATING SERVICES
Commercial & Domestic Mowers, all leading brands.
01234 826066 info@whites-online.co.uk WHITE’S Lawnmowers & Garden Machinery College Farm, Oakley, MK43 7RX
557766
Local Engineer Specialising in all heating appliances Breakdowns & Installations Fixed Boiler Services £65 Landlord Gas Certs Power Flushing All Plumbing Repairs Carried Out
01234 307 667 | 07967 643 405
HOUSE CLEARENCE
Bedford House Clearance House Clearances & Waste Removal Environment Agency Licensed
01234 889 024 We also buy antiques, collectables & unwanted household items
bedfordhouseclearance.com
VEHICLE HIRE
• Self Drive Hire • Contract Rental • Financial Lease • Large Fleet of Standard • Refrigerated • Specialised Vehicles
rentxpressltd.co.uk 01234 339008 To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
61
Neville Funerals Advert May 2019.pdf 1 15/05/2019 09:58:11
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We help you prepare for the choices you have to make. NEVILLE. Because there is a difference.
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BEDFORD 48 Roff Avenue MK41 7TE t: 01234 359529 e: bedford@nevillefuneralservice.com www.nevillefuneralservice.com
DECEMBER PRIZE CROSSWORD
ANSWERS
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 January 2020
FREE WILL VOUCHER
This voucher entitles you to a FREE Mirror Will (normal cost ÂŁ125) or a FREE Single Will (normal cost ÂŁ85)
Valid until 31st January 2020 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.