BedsLife June 2021 by BedsLife Magazine

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to the June issue of BedsLife Magazine.

We don’t know about you, but we can’t believe it’s June already! After a particularly wet May, we have everything crossed for some warm, sunny weather. Inside this month’s issue we take a look at some of our local food and drink producers, Mamma’s House has some Fun on the Farm, we have a fantastic competition from Bedford Park Concerts and we give you the low down on what’s on this month. We are so pleased for all the local businesses in the hospitality industry that are finally allowed to welcome us back inside. It has been so hard for them over this past year so let’s make sure we all safely support them where we can. We do hope you enjoy this issue and please remember to support the local businesses and services who promote themselves in the magazine each month. Finally, a huge well done to our last month’s competition winners - Meal for two at the New Bombay, Paul Gambia and our Wine & Oyster Festival tickets, Cathy McCarthy and Helen Marie Hyman.

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FRE E JUNE

2021

JULY ISSUE DEADLINE WEDNESDAY 9TH JUNE inside

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JUNE 2021

Contents

Welcome

Council News Richard Fuller MP Mohammad Yasin MP Volunteer Opportunities Keech Hospice Produced Locally Companions Real Bread The Composing Cook Recipe Mamma’s House Must Read Books for June Health & Fitness Myths Five Super Summer Fashion Trends Do’s and Dont’s of Home Décor Bedford Park Concerts Competition Milky’s Music Matters Theatre Listings What’s On Panacea Museum Higgins Bedford NGS Summer Open Gardens Exhibitions Marston Forest – The Importance of Hedgerows Prize Crossword Council Calls for Protection of Homes North of Bedford Station Acorn House Pet Advice The Great Outdoors Gardening – Let’s Get Wild Bedford Town FC 7 Bedford Blues Advertiser Index Useful Local Resources Last months Crossword Answers

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council news Goldington Green Academy receives silver accreditation for active travel Over the last three years, Goldington Green Academy have worked hard to promote active travel to their pupils and parents and have now been awarded a silver accreditation through Modeshift Stars for their efforts. Modeshift Stars is a scheme recognising organisations that have shown excellence in promoting cycling, walking and other forms of sustainable travel. To receive a silver accreditation, schools must complete at least 20 travel initiatives, 10 supporting initiatives and 7 consultations, alongside forming an in school working group focused on sustainable travel. Goldington Green Academy is the only school in Bedford Borough that currently has a silver

accreditation and is now aiming to follow in the footsteps of Shortstown Primary School, who have received the gold accreditation. To support the school, Bedford Borough Council’s Sustainable Transport team have provided them with additional resources, including Dr. Bikes’ mobile repairs, scooter and balance bike loans, and school assemblies. If you would like to know more about how to reduce car use to and from school, work with the Council to get accreditation through the Modeshift Stars scheme and access free resources to support you to do this, please email sustainable.transport@bedford.gov.uk.

Improvement works continue at Priory Country Park A number of improvement works around the award winning Priory Country Park are currently being delivered by Bedford Borough Council, which will encourage visitors to continue to take part in outdoor physical exercise. Phase one of these works is the upgrade of the deteriorating path around the lake area of Priory Country Park to an all-weather tarmac pathway, making the lakeside walk more accessible for people who use buggies and wheelchairs. In addition, the Council is also installing new signage around the park that highlights the various walking routes and their distances.

The second phase of the improvements is an outdoor gym, installed where the labyrinth currently is, as this has deteriorated and suffered severe vandalism over the last two years. The Council has reported that outdoor gyms are becoming increasingly popular with residents. As such, they have identified Priory Country Park as an ideal location for a flagship outdoor gym, due to the high level of footfall and volume of physical exercise already taking place around the park. Visitors can still use the park while the works are ongoing.

Council Promotes Support for People with Disabilities Wanting to Work Bedford Borough Council and partners are raising awareness of the support and advice on offer to residents with a disability who want to get into work. A new web page on the Bedford Borough Local Offer website has been created, with information and advice for people with a disability looking for work and potential employers. 4

The new webpages are accompanied by a series of short videos, with employees talking about their own experiences and challenges in being confident enough to apply for a job and what it means to be working, along with further insights from their employers. Visit for more details www.localoffer.bedford.gov.uk/employment.

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We are grateful to our GPs for maintaining contact during the pressures of lockdown and, of course, for their role in helping achieve the Prime Minister’s targets for vaccinations – way in advance of most other countries. Nevertheless, I regularly receive concerns about obtaining appointments or the shift to online or phone consultations. Across England, from 2016 to 2020, the number of GPs fell every year and, though the number of trainees and locums increased, there was a sense that these trends needed to change. I stood on an election commitment to increase funding for our NHS, including to recruit more GPs and nurses. The downward trend has, slowly, been halted and numbers of GPs are now rising again as are the number of trainees. That is great for the country, but here in Bedfordshire we are yet to halt the slide with GP numbers continuing to fall and with our population increasingly rapidly, that needs to change.

Richard Fuller, MP for North East Bedfordshire We need to talk about GP services. For many of my constituents, access to a local GP who is able to give their time and expertise is a vital part of their sense of wellbeing.

So, I am speaking up in Parliament to make sure that Bedfordshire gets its fair share of new doctors and am pushing the local commissioning group to do a better job of managing this critical part of primary care. The Government announced new plans to focus on preventative medicine – streamlining the adoption of new technologies to enable illnesses to be diagnosed earlier or to be avoided all together. The great success of our life sciences industry matched with technology innovation gives our country a huge advantage in global markets. More funding for the NHS; more GPs and nurses recruited; improving local performance and driving forward preventative medicine should give us hope that we can build back better and healthier.

We are grateful to our GPs for maintaining contact during the pressures of lockdown and, of course, for their role in helping achieve the Prime Minister’s targets for vaccinations 6

Xanthe Jackson wi to regular custo ll be a familiar face mers of Frescoe s Coffee House. Now she is the owne having taken ov er from Kevin wh r concentrating on his new busin o is es BlueGlass wine bar in St Peter’s s: Street

Bouncing ba Bedford’s bouncing back to life this summer with markets, shops, outdoor (and soon indoor) eating and drinking If you Love Bedford then please come on down to town and support those businesses who have been in enforced hibernation and now need your custom. Bedford has 100s of businesses, many of them run and owned by committed small business entrepreneurs who want to keep the town alive and kicking. A full list can be found on www.lovebedford.co.uk or follow Love Bedford on Facebook for daily updates.

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Darryl Woolerson has proven himself to be one of those vital members of our community. At only 17 years of age and in the middle of a pandemic, Darryl opened his sandwich shop, Choice Rolls in Bedford. Not only has his shop thrived, but Darryl has been providing incredible support for vulnerable families throughout Bedford and Kempston ever since. Moved by the campaign to get the Government to provide free school meals for children during the school holidays in the pandemic, Darryl offered free meals for those who may have otherwise gone without during the October half term holidays.

Mohammad Yasin, MP for Bedford and Kempston The last year has been a challenge for all of us, and it is in times of difficulty that we often turn to our neighbours and community for support.

At Christmastime, Darryl also offered free meals to vulnerable children and worked with others to secure donations of chocolate to accompany his meals. He reached out to other businesses locally to supplement what he could provide and invited members of the local community to participate in a pay it forward scheme. He even received a personal message of thanks from footballer, Marcus Rashford whose campaign on free school meals for kids was instrumental in the Government’s U-turn on providing free school meals to children in the holidays during the pandemic. Despite being a fledgling business, Darryl helped sustain a number of families, some of whom visited every day during stressful and uncertain times. Not only has he shown real flair and imagination, growing, and maintaining a loyal support base in the most difficult of circumstances, he has also provided for his community and established himself as a local philanthropist. Darryl represents some of the very best of Bedfordians, and in recognition of his drive and hard work, I nominated him for an Octopus Entrepreneur Award. The Octopus Group have chosen the very best entrepreneurs from across the UK, nominated by MPs, to inspire others with their amazing work and I’m so pleased Darryl’s hard work and community spirit has won him the recognition he deserves. The pandemic has hit vulnerable families the hardest. It is a sad truth that food bank use has soared, and 31% of our nation’s children are trapped in poverty. Amidst rising costs of living but years of Government cuts to services, The Trussell Trust have seen a 47% increase in supported needed during the pandemic. Many feel that the Government’s response to the crisis has been inadequate. Where the Government have failed to support those who need it most, it has been made even more important that we have local philanthropists like Darryl to step in and offer them the help they need. I am incredibly proud and grateful for Darryl’s efforts and I cannot wait to see his business grow.

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Wixams Retirement Village – Bistro/Coffee Bar Assistant You will be providing customer service in the Bistro, making coffees, refreshments and snacks, keeping the place clean and tidy and operating the till.

Barnardo’s – Independent Visitor After training and accreditation, you will be matched with a young person in a care placement and meet with them for a monthly outing or activity. Support for a 16 year old male of Kurdish Syrian heritage and a 15 year old girl of Pakistani heritage is currently wanted.

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteers Week runs from 1 – 7 June each year, and this year is all about recognising the contribution volunteers make by saying ‘thank you’. CVS would like to thank all those who have come forward in the past year to contribute to their local community, whether running errands for neighbours who couldn’t get out, volunteering at testing and vaccination centres or supporting one of the many local groups and charities. Search for any of this month’s featured roles by adding the name of the organisation into the keyword field on our Simply Connect opportunity search at cvsbeds.org.uk/volunteer

43 Bromham Road, Bedford Call 01234 354 366 or Email: volunteering@cvsbeds.org.uk www.cvsbeds.org.uk 10

Guide Dogs Herts, Beds and Essex Team – Social fundraising volunteer We are looking for friendly, sociable, organised and motivated individuals across Bedfordshire to join one of our local fundraising teams across the county and assist in promoting and taking part in a variety of activities in your local community to raise money for Guide Dogs.

Biggleswade District Scouts – District Chair You will use your strong communication skills to help a team of committed adult volunteers who make up an Executive Committee arrive at a good decision that will benefit young people.

Sight Concern Bedfordshire – Virtual Social Group Facilitator Get togethers using Zoom will continue to be a social option for visually impaired people in Bedfordshire – the facilitators welcome and support group members.

Marie Curie – Retail Volunteer Bedford We are looking for volunteers to help us sort through donations, pick out the best items and prepare and sell them to our customers.

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The Big Trunk Trail will see over 30 dazzlingly designed elephant sculptures trumpet along a free art trail around Luton’s landmarks and public spaces from the 10 July for 13 weeks. This first-of-its-kind Bedfordshire spectacular is being brought to the town by Keech Hospice Care, the adult hospice for Luton and south Bedfordshire and the children’s hospice for Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Milton Keynes. The fantastic, free, family-friendly, outdoor event is Keech’s way of saying thank you during their 30th anniversary year to everyone who has supported the hospice through the years. A collective name for elephants is a “memory” and the hospice hope that The Big Trunk Trail will bring

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people together to remember loved ones whilst creating fantastic new memories. This FREE event has The Visit Britain “We’re good to go” COVID-19 stamp of approval and is a fantastic, fun and safe way to spend a few days together as a family outdoors this summer. Follow the herd and keep up with the latest developments at www.bigtrunktrail.co.uk and @BigTrunkTrail on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and the trail looks forward to seeing you as you #SpotTheHerd this summer!

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Choose from any of our Edible Ornamentals Chilli Sauces and Chilli Jams for £12. This is an exclusive offer for Bedslife readers and only redeemable at Edible Ornamentals in Chawston. Open Saturday and Sunday from 11am until 4pm or order on our website at www.chilliranch.co.uk for delivery to your front door or choose our handy click and collect option.

Willow Tree Gin 50cl, £38: An adventurous spirit distilled in Bedfordshire, combining a unique blend of 12 botanicals, including fresh lemon thyme, Thai basil and cubeb. A deliciously smooth, herbaceous gin with subtle sweetness.

Willow Tree Gin Gift Set, £25 The Willow Tree Gin Gift Set contains one 20cl bottle of Willow Tree Gin with a Willow Tree Gin glass and some dehydrated botanicals. The perfect present for any gin lover!

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Warren Farm, Millbrook Bedfordshire MK45 2HY www.woodenhillcoffee.co.uk

Woburn Country Foods offer a large selection of Bedfordshire Farmed Meats online and at their three shops in Haynes, Cardington and at Frosts Woburn Sands.

In beautiful North Bedfordshire our free range, pasture fed cows graze the banks of the River Great Ouse. Their delicious milk is just perfect for our luxury handmade ice cream.

We are an ethical coffee company that roast and supply high quality Fairtrade coffee beans. From the smallest coffee shop to the largest restaurant group we have the experience and knowhow to fulfil all your coffee requirements.

Beef is hung on the bone for flavour and tenderness and sausages , burgers and bacon are made onsite by the team of Master Butchers. .

We are absolutely delighted to be able to tell you that in the 2021 Cream Awards we came 2nd in the Taste of Excellence Award with our Riverside Dairy Ice Creams!

The Old Grain Store, West End Farm, Haynes West End, Bedford MK45 3RA www.woburncountryfoods.com

We also sell our signature house roast, a beautiful chemical free decaf and many single origin coffees from around the world, all roasted by us, at our shop in Millbrook.

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Valley View Farm nestles in a beautiful north Bedfordshire valley overlooking the River Great Ouse. Our flock of French and Dutch milk sheep graze on our lush pastures helping us to produce our amazing products. SHEEP MILK Naturally low in lactose. It has a crisp clear taste, is an ideal alternative for people who are intolerant to cow and goats milk and is prized for its numerous health benefits. CHEESE We produce four different types of cheese, Carlton, Bevistan Smoked, Bevistan Tomme and Bevistan Blue. BEVISTAN DAIRY ICE CREAM Made with both our sheep milk and cream has a beautiful texture and natural flavours. BEVISTAN DAIRY HANDMADE YOGURT A Greek style yogurt with a clean and refreshing taste and makes a fantastic breakfast, dessert or add seasoning for a dressing or dip. We also stock other local products honey, preserves, pickles & oils www.bevistandairy.co.uk Tel: 01234 818150 | Email: info@bevistandairy.co.uk Valley View Farm, Turvey Road, Carlton, Bedford MK43 7LH Shop at the farm open 7 days a week from 07.00 - 20.00

Hill Farm Shop Buy the Best - Buy Local Meet the team: Jeanette and Mick Hurley on their family farm

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Doubly-good bread

available in North Beds!

Did you know that through the simple act of treating yourself to quality bread you can become part of a transformational story? Our genuine sourdough is made slowly over two days, allowing plenty of time for lactic acid bacteria to develop. These work to reduce the phytic acid and allow access to micronutrients in the grain, and to partially digest the gluten. Research suggests this bread is more nutritious, more digestible than the industrial loaf, and helps boost immunity through supporting the microbiome. Companions Bakery (based in The Gallery, Bedford) was set up as a not-for-profit in 2016 specifically to help ex-offenders trying to resettle into our local community. We all make mistakes, and however much we might regret them, their impact on our lives can continue long after we’ve suffered the punishment, whatever that might be. 97% of prisoners say that, along with finding somewhere to live, getting a job is the thing most likely to help them stay out of trouble, 18

but the odds are heavily stacked against them. However much they may want to ‘give back’, many have few qualifications and little or no work experience. More than 40 ex-offenders have now worked and trained with us. As part of a team of positive people, they discover their skills, grow in confidence and begin to feel that the future might after all hold some promise. Indeed, 38% of them have moved forward into paid employment. Buying our bread supports them, as well as your health.

Order your bread online and choose a local pick-up point. If you want to try our bread, or buy occasionally, you can place an order before midnight on a Sunday, and choose to collect from a pick-up point in Kempston, Stagsden, Odell, Felmersham, Sharnbrook or Renhold. A subscription is best for a regular order. All the information you need is at www.companionsrealbread.uk/buying-from-us Thank you for your support!

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The Composing Cook The Composing Cook

FLOURLESS CHOCOLATE LIME CREAM CAKE

INGREDIENTS: For The Cake: 150g unsalted butter 150g dark chocolate 6 large eggs 250g caster sugar 100g ground almonds 4 teaspoons cocoa powder zest and juice of 1 lime For The Cream Topping: 75g icing sugar 60ml lime juice (3-4 limes) plus the zest 300 ml double cream Serves 8-10

This is the perfect cake to eat on a lazy sunny afternoon. It’s light and very moreish. One slice is never enough. Preheat oven to 170°C fan/180°C gas. Grease and line a 23cm cake tin. In a saucepan, melt the butter, remove from heat, add the dark chocolate and swill around. After about 2-4 minutes, whisk until you have a glossy chocolate mixture. Put to one side to cool slightly. In a freestanding mixer or electric hand whisk and bowl, add the eggs, sugar and whisk until it has tripled in volume and is pale and moussy. In a separate bowl, mix the ground almonds and cocoa powder together and then gradually add this to the egg and sugar mixture, followed by the chocolate and butter mix. Finally fold in the zest and juice of 1 lime. Pour the mixture into your prepared cake tin and cook for 35-45 minutes. Check it after 35 minutes. You are looking for the cake to be set on top with a slight wobble underneath. Remove from oven and place on a wire rack to cool for 5 minutes, then drape a tea towel on top and allow the cake to cool completely. As it cools, the cake will crack and sink slightly, this is normal. When cold unmold onto your serving plate. To make the cream topping, place the lime juice and icing sugar into a bowl and whisk. The icing sugar will dissolve in the lime. Add the double cream and whisk until light and fluffy. Spread the cream over the cake and decorate with the lime zest. Cut into slices and devour.

You can watch me make this cake, amongst many others, by visiting my YouTube Channel, The Composing Cook. Just head over to: www.YouTube.com/TheComposingCook and there you will find me. Happy Baking. 20

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Sharnbrook House Care Home is set in the picturesque village of Sharnbrook in Bedfordshire and we specialise in high-quality residential care. The team at Sharnbrook House are exceptional and wholly committed to providing the very best care. They are loving, caring, compassionate and have all been selected because they genuinely care and treat our residents with the respect and dignity that they deserve. Please call us on 01234 781294 to arrange a Virtual Viewing of Sharnbrook House to ensure you know it is the right home for you and your loved one. Or e-mail sharnbrook@greensleeves.org.uk for any other information or to request a brochure. Sharnbrook House, High Street, Sharnbook, Bedfordshire MK44 1PB Greensleeves Homes Trust is a registered charity in England & Wales No 1060478

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Fun on the farm Could this be one of our local best kept secrets? Located in Wilstead, and very much a working farm, is Herring Green Activity Farm & Bird of Prey Centre. We were lucky enough to be invited along for a fantastic family day out. There is so much to see and do here. There are lots of animals to meet, including alpacas, Shetland ponies, goats, sheep, and highland cows. My two also loved seeing all the different types of birds that are kept, from new-born owls to majestic eagles. Everyone receives a bag of animal food on arrival, to feed some of the animals. The great thing is, once you have finished feeding and seeing the animals and birds, you can let the children play in the different play areas. Restrictions are still in place, and I felt totally safe bringing my family here. As restrictions lift and we get back to some normality, more of the activities will be restored, such as tractor rides, animal meet and greets, flying displays, grooming the animals, and even stop for a coffee and cake in the tearoom. It is open to visitors all week; you just need to prebook on the website. Children under two are free. I recommend looking out for the toddler sessions during the week, which are such a good deal. They also have other experiences such as walking with alpacas and one to one bird of prey encounters. We had such a lovely day out, and we can’t wait to visit again soon! Follow us @mammas_house on Instagram for more great family days out. 22

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Must read books for June Whet your appetite with snapshots of summer holidays spent by the seaside, or perhaps immerse yourself in a gripping thriller – here are this month’s sumptuous book releases.

A Day at the Beach Hut: Stories and Recipes Inspired by Seaside Life by Veronica Henry (June 10th) A family enjoy their last holiday at a much-loved beach hut. The tide brings in an old face – and a new temptation – while a writer’s retreat is shaken up by a surprise arrival. The simple pleasures of the seaside compete with the Instagram dream, a couple’s future is turned upside down, and a celebratory evening takes a stormy turn. And as the sun sets, an unexpected romance is simmering... Escape to the coast with this delicious collection of short stories and beach-hut inspired recipes from Sunday Times bestselling author Veronica Henry the perfect summer treat! The First Day of Spring by Nancy Tucker (June 24th) Not for the faint-hearted, this chilling debut wastes no time in pulling the reader deep into its murky undertow. A taut and impeccably crafted page-turner about what propels one eight-year-old girl to commit an unspeakable act, and the tensely moving effect it has on the rest of her life, The First Day of Spring is not just about how neglect and loneliness can shape a child, but also how they can have a lasting impact even when that child becomes a mother herself.

The Ugly Cry: A Memoir by Danielle Henderson (June 8th) Having firmly made a name for herself as a television writer (Maniac, Divorce and Dare Me), Danielle Henderson now turns her formidable talent to the memoir. Documenting a difficult childhood during which she grew up ‘black, weird, and overwhelmingly uncool in a mostly white neighbourhood in upstate New York’, Henderson uses wit and candour to delve into some important topics. Mostly though, it is a book about family and the fierce bond between a vulnerable child and her devoted grandmother. Hungry by Grace Dent (June 10th) The highly anticipated memoir from one of Britain’s bestloved food writers, Hungry is a joyous journey through Dent’s fascinating life. From growing up eating beige food to becoming a celebrated London gourmand, it is a personal story, but also everyone’s story – from cheese and pineapple hedgehogs and treats with your nan, to the exquisite joy of a chip butty covered in vinegar and too much salt in the school canteen on a grey day; this a poignant reminder of why food is such an integral part of our lives and our various cultures.

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HEALTH & FITNESS MYTHS PINEAPPLE HEAD? We reveal the truth behind whether sleeping beside a pineapple aids sleep, and look at five other health and fitness myths you’ll probably want to steer away from ONE Pineapple aids sleep The myth that having this sweet, spiky fruit in your bedroom will improve sleep came about because of its high melatonin content, something that’s known to help reset circadian rhythm, thus regulating the 24hour sleep and rest cycle. However, melatonin cannot travel through the air into the body, so positioning the fruit next to where you sleep will do little more than give you a fright when you wake up.

TWO You can concentrate fat burn It’s lovely to think we can target weight loss for a certain part or side of our bodies, but the reality is weight loss – and fat burn – is an all-over operation, and even exercising just one leg while completely resting the other will have an equal effect on both. Naturally, exercising your lower half exclusively may impact legs more than torso, but that’s about as targeted as you’ll get.

THREE You shouldn’t work out on an empty stomach It’s perfectly acceptable to exercise on an empty stomach – indeed, doing so before breakfast is one of the most effective ways of shedding pounds. Your body has been without food for a number of hours and is that much closer to tapping into its fat-burning reserves than if you’d just recently gulped down a bowl of Weetabix. 26

FOUR Stretch and flex before working out Taking a tendon or muscle and tensioning it to its maximum from a ‘cold’ position is probably one of the best ways to encounter injury. The modern take on preparing for exercise is… to exercise! A slow, low-impact jog and light loosening of limbs as you move is a much better way to get in the right physical shape for a session.

FIVE Don’t exercise if you’re ill If you have a headache or are engaging in exercise that accentuates body pain, you should hold off. Similarly, any ailment below the throat that tests your respiratory capacity should be avoided, but don’t let a head cold put you off your workout.

SIX Running is better than walking Both forms of exercise use the same muscle groups, and therefore have very similar effects. It follows, of course, that you’ll need to exercise longer if walking in order to achieve the same level of calorie burn (and an extra 10 per cent for treadmill versus outdoors), but in isolation both work and challenge the body in similar ways.

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Five super summer fashion trends an oversized boyfriend shirt and loafers, or be a Seventies sweetheart with wedge sandals, statement sunglasses and a headscarf. POWDER PUFF PASTELS If you’re seeking a summer of romance, this is the look for you. Not just puffed-up sleeves and billowing dresses, but also in the dreamiest of colours. Sheer, voluminous blouses in the palest of pinks; ruffled minidresses in lemon sorbet yellow, and taffeta gowns in every ice cream hue.

Whether you’re a fashion daredevil or classical style maven, make this a summer to remember with these five dazzling trends. RACING CAR RED After a long, lockdown winter, it should come as no surprise that red is the colour of summer 2021. Bold, beautiful and a symbol of passion and desire, this is the ideal trend if you want to be noticed and admired. Fire engine red sunglasses, bangles or lipstick are great way to add a touch of glamour to an otherwise drab outfit; or you can go full screen siren with one of the many red dresses seen on the spring/summer catwalks: red is the colour you would be seen dead in. DREAMY DENIM Fans of Seventies fashion rejoice! Wide-legged denim is back and it’s better than ever. That’s right, you can ditch those drainpipe jeans once and for all and embrace your inner Jane Birkin. From high-rise wide-leg jeans in powdery blue denim to inky indigo flares, this is one of those looks you can wear morning to night. Endlessly versatile, you can dress your denim down with 28

LUXE LEATHER If playful pastels are not your thing, then the luxe leather trend may be for you. A trend that felt all about the Eighties, Saint Laurent and Gucci sent down models in divine leather pencil skirts with pussy-bow blouses, while Alexander McQueen’s belted leather mini dress looks like it came straight off the set of Desperately Seeking Susan. Boldest of all though were the numerous leather trench coats, trousers and suits, all in the supplest of leathers, and the kind of daring cuts that would make Grace Jones herself weep. CUTESY KNITS Breathable, fitted and supremely stylish, this is not your average knitwear. For starters, the pieces are not designed to be layered over a dress or a t-shirt, but are more of a standalone statement piece. From jacquard-knit merino wool polo shirts to fitted bodysuits in a blend of cashmere and silk, this is a trend which is both practical AND luxurious.

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DOS AND DONT’S OF HOME DÉCOR What looks good in your hood… and what doesn’t! DO settle on a style you like Create mood boards, thinking carefully about whether you want an eclectic mixed-up style, or perhaps something a little more rigid such as minimalism or industrial. BUT DON’T create themed rooms Bedecking your entire house in seashells and knotted ropes is going to get tiring quickly. Instead, think more about accents and the odd statement piece to reveal your heart’s desires. DO test your colours first Forget miniscule colour swatches and instead paint a decent-sized square on your wall. Then, live with it for a few days before making your final decision. BUT DON’T obsess over one particular hue A colour theme is a good way to pull your home together, and can run like a subtle thread throughout it. However, an entire room with matching walls, carpet and furnishings will make the space feel claustrophobic. DO take inspiration from magazines and influencers Be open-minded and seek out as 30

many resources as you can – you may be surprised by what catches your eye. BUT DON’T be afraid to mix it up Nothing dates a décor like everything being from the same era. It also means you’ll be back buying it all again in five years’ time. DO take into account the needs of your family A beautiful minimalist space with white carpet and walls, yet you have four kids! Some pristine dreams will have to wait until your nest is empty!

BUT DON’T compromise all style for practicality That doesn’t mean you have to put plastic coverings over your sofas. Instead, invest in a few nice toy crates and beanbags, letting your children’s belongings enhance rather than take away from your home’s design fair. DO splash out on expensive pieces Invest in furniture that you not only love, but that will stand the test of time. Plywood drawers and cheap wardrobes will only come to frustrate you costing more money in the long run. BUT DON’T be afraid to go vintage There is a lot of furniture – particularly made in the Fifties and Sixties (think Eames and G-plan) – that’s designed to last and still looks incredible. DO be ambitious with style Let your creativity run a little wild and be bold, if you want to. BUT DON’T ignore your home’s natural architecture Always try to embrace the natural beauty and charm of your surroundings.

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BEDFORD PARK CONCERTS BY ARRANGEMENT WITH ART & INDUSTRY PRESENTS:

PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS

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CELEBRATING

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SUNDAY 1ST AUGUST

In conjunction with Bedford Park Concerts we are offering an AMAZING giveaway of 2 pairs of tickets to EACH event! To be in with a chance to win a pair of tickets just email competitions@bedslifemagazine.co.uk with the name of the act you would love to see and you will be entered into our prize draw.

BEDFORD PARK CONCERTS BY ARRANGEMENT WITH ART & INDUSTRY PRESENTS:

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Winners will be chosen at random and entrants must be 18 years or over. Entrants can only win tickets to one event. Competition closes Monday 14th June 2021

MILKYS MUSIC MATTERS FOCUS ON UPCOMING BEDFORD GIGS If you are reading this page, then there is an extraordinarily strong chance that like me you’re badly missing the buzz that live music provides. The anticipation of hearing & eyeballing the new hype or maybe something recently unveiled to you through radio or even a returning favourite. What this provides is the opportunity to soundtrack an evening and shape memories, meet like-minded souls and maybe even tap a foot, pogo tigger bounce or flat out cut some rug. How have we coped? In Bedford we are blessed with an exceptionally fine music venue in Esquires and a collection of promoters who first and foremost are music loopy and forever searching for the perfect gig. Like all businesses affected by the pandemic Esquires has had a tough time, staff furloughed, over a year gone with zero income and a government roadmap that at first seemed to be built on sand. With strong leadership and the dedication of the supporting Esquires crew alongside an enthusiastically wellreceived Crowdfunder, hope does spring eternal. During the enforced downtime, a lot of work has been undertaken at the venue to upgrade the facilities and help to ensure the venue continues to be a firm staple of the national touring circuit.

I’m not going to bang on about all the great bands and big names who have played at Esquires (ahem.. I am still trying to get Adele to fulfil the date she pulled out on with a sore throat all those years ago) but instead highlight some of the incredible acts we have managed to book for the rest of 2021. First off though, the venue will open with a series of socially distanced gigs before we return to a desperately required sense of normality from the 21st of June. Through August to December Esquires will host the absolute best of a wave of new hyped indie bands (Dream Wife, PVA, Yard Act, The Lounge Society, The Goa Express, Coach Party and TV Priest), some classic ‘vintage’ bands such as The Futureheads, British Sea Power, CUD, The Nightingales and Shonen Knife and still find room to accommodate the likes of The Dub Pistols, The Meteors, The Blockheads, Lee Scratch Perry, KatyJ Pearson, Tom Grennan and Emily Capell. Seriously, there are too many to list here and as if that wasn’t enough, a new one-day multi-stage annual festival (CEREMONY) will be launched on Saturday 17th July with sets from a dazzling array of the best emerging UK bands. We cannot wait to see you back at live music events in Bedford and after a year of staying in, it will soon be time to go out EVERY NIGHT. Keep music live, Milky.

SUPPORT THE BEDFORD LIVE SCENE - UPCOMING GIGS FOR YOUR DIARY Socially distanced shows at Esquires – check seetickets.com for availability as some are SOLD OUT. Wed 2nd June Thur 3rd June Fri 4th June Sat 5th June Wed 9th June Thu 10th June Fri 11th June Sat 13th June Tue 16th June

Tom Hingley (ex- Inspiral Carpets) Mark Chadwick (Levellers) Mark Chadwick (Levellers) Spike (Quireboys) SHAME (SOLD OUT) Kirk Brandon (Spear of Destiny) Kirk Brandon (Spear of Destiny) The Smyths Don Letts – There and Black Again – Book tour

Restriction’s lift, let us get gigging!!! Mon 21st June Sarpa Salpa + Tom Lumley & the Brave Sat 3rd July Daft Funk LIVE + Hitman + Mass C Wed 7th July PVA + Lazarus Kane + Folly Group Fri 16th July The Smyths perform ‘Meat IS Murder’ & ‘The Queen Is Dead’ Sat 17th July CEREMONY #1 – multi-stage one day festival (Billy Nomates, Big Joanie, Pins, JOHN, Crows, Feet, Talk Show, Thyla, Lynks, Bleach Lab, Regressive Left, Grandmas House, Lowgirl) Fri 23rd July The Rifles (acoustic) Tue 27th July Squid (SOLD OUT) Fri 30th July Elijah Miller + many more Check listings at bedfordesquires.com for details or facebook.com/bedfordesquires Tickets available from Esquires, Slide Record Shop and online – seetickets.com

Come and visit us! Café serving brunch and lunch Fully stocked deli Homemade cakes Fesh vegetables Gourmet frozen food Woburn Country Foods butchery Other local suppliers We’re open 8.30am - 5pm Tuesday to Saturday and 10am - 4pm Sunday

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Theatre Listings The Place Bedford Bradgate Road, Bedford MK40 3DE Tel 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk Baby Bear [Outdoor Theatre] Thursday 17th Jun 11:00 and 13:00 PAY WHAT YOU CAN TICKETS Combining stunning visuals, an exploration of the senses and a mesmerising soundtrack, Baby Bear is a playful, interactive puppetry adventure for babies, toddlers and their families. The Three Musketeers [Outdoor Theatre] 19 Jun, 14:00 and 19:00 Sharpen your swords, lace up your boots, and stick a great big feather in your hat! Morgan & West present a fun for all the family retelling of Alexadre Dumas’ The Three Musketeers. A whirlwind of whimsy, wit, and (s)wordplay await. Cloudscapes [Outdoor Event] 27 Jun - all day A duologue for performer and clouds in an outdoor auditorium — a cloud-gazing area. Whilst a performer tells stories of her relationship with the troposphere, audiences are encouraged to look up and contemplate the mutability of clouds, as well as the mutability of humanity.

The Quarry Theatre at St Luke’s 26 St Peter S Street, Bedford MK40 2NN Tel 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk Owen O’Neill: The Whole Nine Yarns Friday 4th June 19:30 14+ years This show is a hybrid of stand-up comedy, theatrical monologue and poetry and O’Neil blends all three to perfection The Handlebards: Macbeth (Outdoor Event) Tuesday 8th June 19:30 8+ years Pedalling from venue to venue with all of their set, props and costumes on the back of their bikes, the HandleBards are a four-strong troupe of actors who are spending the summer bringing environmentally sustainable Shakespeare to venues across the UK. 36

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SWING DANCE LESSONS FRIDAY JUNE 4TH, 11TH & 18TH 2PM-3PM Sharnbrook Village Hall Bubbled, partners only during June To book please visit www.swingdancers.co.uk

BABY + CHILDREN MARKET SATURDAY 5TH JUNE 10AM -2PM The Olde Watermill Shipping Village, Barton Mill Lane off Faldo road, Barton-Le-Clay MK45 4RF Nearly new table top sale. Lots of great bargains, baby and children’s clothing, toys, nursery items and much more. Free admission SUNDAY STROLL SUNDAY 6TH JUNE 10.30AM – 12.30PM Forest of Marston Vale, Station road, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PR Free but donations welcome. A guided social walk led by our Volunteers around the Millennium Country Park. We’ll be using surfaced paths so the walk is suitable for buggies and wheelchairs. Meet at 10.30am outside the Forest Centre. Walk approx. 2 hours.

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RUN + REGGAE NIGHT SATURDAY 19TH JUNE FROM 7PM The Bedford Arms, Souldrop West Indian themed food + drinks - Live reggae music Tickets £10. Tel 01234 781384 WARDEN ABBEY VINEYARD TOURS TUESDAY 22ND JUNE 11AM & 2PM SUNDAY 27TH JUNE 11AM & 2PM An opportunity to tour the vineyard, learn about the history, the vines and after the tour taste the wines. Strictly advance bookings only. Visit www.wardenvineyard.org.uk 38

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SUMMER WILDLIFE WALK SATURDAY 12TH JUNE 9.30AM Forest of Marston Vale, Station road, Marston Oakley IT 2018 QP ad.indd 1 Moretaine MK43 0PR A guided walk around the Millennium Country Park to spot and identify some of the amazing wildlife that we see at this time of year. Tickets £4 . To book please call Tel 01234 767037 MIND, BODY + SPIRIT SUNDAY 13TH JUNE 10AM – 4PM The Olde Watermill Shopping Village, Barton Mill Lane off Faldo road, Barton-Le-Clay MK45 4RF Over 20 stalls of Mind, Body and Spirit stalls for you to peruse. Reiki, Candles, Jewellery, Tarot and more.

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Panacea Museum re-opens

The Panacea Museum re-opened on Thursday 20th May 2021, with plenty of extra safety measures in place to protect both visitors and staff. Visitors have the opportunity to discover the fascinating story of Octavia and the Panacea Society, a religious community formed in the early 20th Century. The Society’s name became familiar to many people beyond Bedford through their national advertising campaign to open Joanna Southcott’s sealed box of prophecies. The Museum incorporates beautiful Victorian architecture, interiors and carefully-tended gardens. COVID-19 Safety Precautions The majority of the Museum is open to the public, with a one-way system in place which includes access to the Gardens. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic and sit in the Garden. All visitors to the museum are required to wear a mask, and hand sanitising stations are at each entrance and exit. The staff and volunteers at the Museum look forward to welcoming you back! 20th May- 24th October | Thursday – Sunday, 11.00 - 5.00 More information can be found here: panaceamuseum.org/visiting/visitor-information

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The Higgins Bedford

The Higgins Bedford is delighted to back open again following the easing of national restrictions. Visitors will once again be able to enjoy displays telling the story of the local area, alongside nationally significant collections of art and design. Measures are in place for the safety of visitors, volunteers and staff, and to help ensure an enjoyable experience for all. This includes reducing the capacity of the museum to ensure that people can socially distance. Visitors will need to book a free timed entry ticket online in advance by visiting www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk or by calling 01234 718044 (line open 11am-3pm Monday-Friday). Online bookings will be open from 11 May. Everyone visiting The Higgins Bedford must wear a face covering, except for children under 11 or for the legitimate reasons set out in Government guidance. Visitors must only visit in groups of up to six people or two households. As well as being able to visit the galleries, the museum shop will be open with a range of items inspired by the collections, including gifts, cards, tea towels, books, toys and jigsaws. Open Tuesday – Saturday 11am – 5pm and Sunday 2pm – 5pm. For more information visit www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

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NGS Summer

Open Gardens

The National Garden Scheme gives visitors unique access to over 3,600 exceptional private gardens in England and Wales, and raises impressive amounts of money for nursing and health charities through admissions, teas and cake. As well as raising money for charity they are passionate about the physical and mental health benefits of gardens too. Whilst their core beneficiaries include Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK and The Queen’s Nursing Institute, they also support charities doing amazing work in gardens and health and grant bursaries to help community gardening projects. Here are some of the beautiful private gardens that you can visit locally this year.

22 Elmsdale Road

Bedford, Bedfordshire Saturday 5th June 12pm - 5pm Sunday 6th June 12pm - 5pm Topiary garden greets visitors before they enter a genuine Japanese Feng Shui garden including bonsai. Large collection of Japanese plants, Koi pond, lily pond and a Japanese Tea House. The garden was created from scratch by the owners about 20 years ago and has many interesting features including Japanese lanterns and the Kneeling Archer terracotta soldier from China. Adult: £5.00 Child: Free

Bedford Heights

Bedford, Bedfordshire Saturday 5th June 10am - 2pm Originally built by Texas Instruments, a Texan theme runs throughout the building and gardens. The entrance simulates an arroyo or dry riverbed, and is filled with succulents and cacti, plus a mixture of grasses and herbaceous plants, many of which are Texan natives. There are also 3 courtyard gardens, where less hardy plants thrive in the frost-free environment. Gardens designed by Graham A Pavey. Light refreshments in The Graze Bistro. Pre-booking required. Adult: £5.00

192 Kimbolton Road Bedford, Bedfordshire Saturday 12th June 2pm - 5pm Saturday 11th September 2pm - 5pm

A third of an acre cottage garden specialising in many varieties of roses. There are also vegetable and soft fruit patches and an orchard. The garden includes over 90 roses. Adult: £5.00 Child: Free

1a St Augustine’s Road

Royal Oak Cottage

Kempston Rural, Bedford, Bedfordshire Sunday 13th June 12pm - 5pm Sunday 18th July 12pm - 5:30pm ¾ acre garden created on the land of an old beer house, with wildlife in mind. There are old orchard trees, herbaceous beds, a small oriental garden and a vegetable plot. A blue and white border surrounds an old renovated piggery building. Agapanthus and blue hydrangeas are a patio speciality. Shallow ponds support newts and other amphibians. The wildflower meadow is Austrian scythed in August. Adult: £5.00 Child: Free

Bedford, Bedfordshire Saturday 7th August 12pm - 4:30pm A colourful town garden with herbaceous borders, climbers, a greenhouse and pond. Planted in cottage garden style with traditional flowers, the borders overflow with late summer annuals and perennials including salvias and rudbeckia. The pretty terrace next to the house is lined with ferns and hostas. The owners also make home-made chutneys and preserves which can be purchased on the day. Home-made teas. Adult: £5.00 Child: Free

Howbury Hall Garden

4 St Andrews Road

Bedford, Bedfordshire Saturday 10th July 10am - 4pm An elegant, multi-functional urban garden set within a semi-formal layout featuring clipped beech hedges softened by colourful shrubs and perennials and a rose pergola. Focal points have been created to be enjoyed from both within the garden as well from the house. Adult: £3.50 Child: Free

Renhold, Bedford, Bedfordshire Sunday 12th September 2pm - 5pm A late Victorian garden designed with mature trees, sweeping lawns and herbaceous borders. The large walled garden is a working garden, where one half is dedicated to growing a large variety of vegetables whilst the other is run as a cut flower business. In the woodland area, walking towards the large pond, the outside of a disused ice house can be seen. Adult: £5.00 Child: Free Pre-booking to all open garden events is essential. For more information visit www.ngs.org.uk

Exhibitions Cowper & Newton Museum, Olney Three Hares Gallery – ‘Motoring Art’ by Guild of Motoring Artists Tuesday 1st – Wednesday 30th June 11.00 am - 4:30 pm (Last admission 3:30pm) Free entry to the gallery only. Exhibition featuring work from a variety of motoring artists, with a special Sunday Opening on 13th June coinciding with an Olney Classic Car Club run to the Cowper & Newton Museum. (Online bookings and walk-ins if space). Tel 01234 711516 Market Place, Olney MK46 4AJ cowperandnewtonmuseum.org.uk The Higgins Bedford Under the Same Sky - Until 27 June 2021 Explores artists’ depictions of the sky above and the local impact of the weather over time, and. Combining works by major artists including JMW Turner, Alfred Sisley, Paul Nash, Edouard Manet and Eric Ravilious, with film, images and local stories, culminating in a reflection of our fascination with the weather and its effects on the world around us. Tel 01234 718618 Castle Lane, Bedford MK40 3XD www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk The Eagle Gallery, Bedford Anthony MacKay Solo Show Wednesday 2nd June – Saturday 12th June Inspired by the ups and downs of a recent family drama involving travelling through landscapes which changed in mood as the circumstances moved from despair and foreboding to relief and celebration. Tel 01234 346995 20 St Peter’s Street, Bedford MK40 2NN www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk 44

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CORONAVIRUS

“Getting tested is a really easy way to help keep my family and my workmates safe.” PRATIK, RETAIL ASSISTANT

Get free rapid tests, even if you don’t have symptoms. Around 1 in 3 people who have Covid-19 don’t have any symptoms and can spread it without knowing. Test regularly – twice a week.

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From UK to long haul, skiing to beach holidays, we have it all… with some added benefits… Usually, booking a holiday means paying a deposit and paying the remaining balance 16-14 weeks before departure. But with Marco Williams – Not Just Travel – we’ve made it a whole lot easier! You can now pay the balance in simple monthly instalments on hundreds of holidays. And remember… There are no additional fees to do this. • It’s 0% interest •Y ou can book a great holiday well in advance without having to save up… •A direct debit means no missed payments so your holiday is secure •F inal balances are due 6 weeks before departure, not the usual 16 or 14 weeks • You have longer to pay So, to book your next holiday, with easy payment terms: Call: 01234 581066 Email: marco.williams@notjusttravel.com Go to my website: www.bedfordshiretravelagents.co.uk Not Just Travel (agency) Ltd, sells travel services on behalf of Hays Travel Limited and benefits from Hays Travel’s membership of ABTA with membership number K9413. ABTA and ABTA Memberships help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct.

Best Time to Go The Seychelles are an ideal year-round destination. Temperatures rarely dropping below 24 degrees. Different times of the year are better suited depending on what you’re looking to do. October March, average wind speeds are 8 to 12 knots. May - September - 10 to 20 knots - ideal conditions for sailing. April and October are usually wind-free and water temperatures around 29 degrees. Flora & Fauna Nowhere on Earth will you find such unique species such as the Coco-de-mer, and the jellyfish tree. Seychelles is home to 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the islands are a sanctuary for the rarest species on earth. Things to do Though ideal for relaxation and lazy days, there are also guided island tours with your own well-equipped car and tour guides and custom boat charters to the islands around Praslin. If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, SMAC Adventures offers up zip-lining and rock climbing. Night-Time Turn up the tempo at Oxygen Night Club when the sun goes down. But a more low-key affair, The Boardwalk Bar & Grill, offers beautiful scenic views, perfect to relax with a cold beer. 47

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The importance of the

humble hedgerow The Forest of Marston Vale will be taking part in National Hedgerow Week celebrations from 29 May - 6 June 2021 – see marstonvale.org for details The hedgerow is a quintessential part of the British landscape. Their origins go all the way back to the Bronze Age, when early farmers cleared woodland to make space for livestock and crops. Remnants of woodland were left around the edges of land to enclose animals and protect crops, and some of these ancient hedgerows still exist today. Some hedgerows also formed naturally, when shrubs and trees gained a foothold on the unfarmed edges of cultivated land or in the damp, stony places that couldn’t be farmed. 50

Many more hedgerows were planted to mark boundaries following the Enclosure Acts which began in the 17th century. It’s estimated that there are almost 250,000 miles of ‘managed’ hedgerows in the UK, but we are losing thousands of miles each year to development, agriculture and a lack of management. This is an alarming statistic for a number of reasons. A hedgerow is so much more than a simple field boundary. These green borders are a literal lifeline for wildlife, offering shelter, living accommodation and food within often inhospitable land surrounding them. They are the connecting links between larger habitats, such as woodlands, enabling wildlife to move from one place to another. Hedgerows, particularly those that have been around for a while, can support a huge variety

of wildlife. Look closely along the length of an old hedgerow and you’ll likely see many woody species thickly entwined together – such as hawthorn, blackthorn, spindle, holly, dog rose and crab apple. Scrambling through the woody growth you might discover wild honeysuckle, prickly bramble and ivy, with taller trees overtopping it like oak, field maple and beech. At the base of the hedge, thriving in the shelter it provides, you’ll often find an abundance of wildflowers such as bluebells, red campion, stitchwort and frothy cow parsley. Many birds nest within the woody fortress of the hedge, enjoying the dense protection it provides. According to the RSPB, at least 30 bird species nest in hedgerows, including whitethroats, linnets, yellowhammers, dunnocks and song thrushes. Some 1,500 insect species have been recorded in species-rich hedgerows, from beetles that shelter in the tussocky undergrowth beneath the hedge to butterflies and moths that rely on them for food and breeding places. Many mammals too depend on hedgerows for survival. The concentration of insects around hedgerows make them perfect hunting grounds for bats, and it is also known that they use hedges as a navigation aid as they travel through the landscape. Bats use echolocation to find their way, sending out sound waves and listening for their return as they bounce off objects in the landscape. In an otherwise open landscape such as farmland, the presence of hedgerows ensures they can find their way back to their roosting sites.

It is not only wildlife that benefits from our hedgerows – they are an increasingly important tool in fighting the climate emergency. In addition to tree-planting, expanding our hedgerow network will help to absorb more atmospheric carbon, as well as protecting soils from erosion and filtering out pollution particles in the air that we breathe. Looking after, or ‘managing’ our hedgerows, is crucial if we are to support the wildlife that depends on them. If unmanaged, they will become thinner at the base, losing the dense, protected structure that is valued by so many species. Hedges that have become ‘gappy’ at the bottom can be rejuvenated by hedge laying. This is a traditional country skill that involves partially cutting through the woody stems at the base of the hedge, bending them and intertwining them, filling in any gaps and encouraging new growth. There are many organisations offering advice on hedgerow management for wildlife, and a good starting point is Hedgelink (www.hedgelink.org.uk/).

Hedgerows are vital for dormice too. These nocturnal mammals spend their lives climbing among the branches of trees and hedges, rarely coming down to the ground. Following their winter hibernation, they emerge in May to feast on hawthorn pollen and honeysuckle nectar, often venturing into dense hedgerows to find these delicacies. Summer breeding nests can be created in the dense, knotted branches near to the base of a hedge, and sustenance is sought from caterpillars, aphids and then juicy blackberries as the year progresses in autumn. 51

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Council Calls for Protection of Homes North of Bedford Station

A report looking at options around the East West Rail route north of Bedford Midland has shown that the service could run effectively using just the existing four lines, and avoid the need to demolish any homes in the Poets area. Bedford Borough Council commissioned SLC Rail, specialists in rail projects, to conduct a technical review of this section of the route in response to the East West Rail Company’s current consultation proposing six tracks to run north of the station. This would require over 50 homes to be compulsorily purchased and potentially demolished, nearly 50 more to lose some of their land or gardens and another rebuilding of the Bromham Road Bridge causing further disruption to local residents on this busy route into the town. This report shows that East West Rail trains could run on the existing lines, as in a standard hour of train services there is still 28 minutes – nearly half of the time – where the line is free and an East West Rail service could run. It also shows that this free time could be extended to 40 minutes in the hour with some relatively minor changes to the track layout within its existing boundaries.

This report concludes that with efficient timetabling and some track layout adjustments it is possible to bring the East West Rail service through Bedford Midland without the need to demolish homes. This would also be a cheaper option than the proposed six tracks. Mayor Dave Hodgson said “This report confirms what we have said all along – that there is no need for extra lines on the section of track north of Bedford station to Fairhill. The rail experts producing this report for the Council have demonstrated that with a few relatively minor adjustments to the track layout there is ample capacity for East West Rail trains to and from Cambridge, without the need for the government to compulsorily purchase homes in the Poets area. “We can also see that Network Rail came to this same conclusion in a report they have recently released. We will now continue to push the East West Railway Company to adopt this revised approach, so that our community can benefit from this once in a generation investment that will bring jobs and businesses to Bedford Borough without the loss of homes in the Poets area.”

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Corneal ulcers in cats, dogs and rabbits

Pets can suffer from scratches on the surface of their eye (cornea), which can develop into corneal ulcers. Pets with ulcers will usually have a sore, watery eye.

What causes corneal scratches and ulcers? Sometimes eyes can become scratched by another pet or by undergrowth/ branches. Pets with bulging eyes (such as Bulldogs or Persian cats), ingrowing eyelashes, and pets that have medical conditions preventing them from producing adequate tears are at increased risk.

What if the ulcer does not heal as expected? Corneal ulcers may become infected which can lead to catastrophic destruction of the surrounding cornea (we call this a “melting” ulcer). Sometimes shallow corneal ulcers can become much deeper and the eyeball is at risk of rupture. Other patients can develop an “indolent” ulcer, where the ulcer does not get infected or deep but just does not heal for weeks or months.

How are these more complicated ulcers treated?

Your vet will apply a green dye to the eye to highlight any ulcerated areas. At the same time, the vet can check for any other eye abnormalities that may be contributing to the problem.

Infected ulcers require aggressive treatment with particular antibiotic drops and special eye drops made out of the patient’s own blood! Deep ulcers can be treated by surgery to repair the ulcer with a “patch” of conjunctiva. Indolent ulcers need a simple surgical procedure to remove the damaged parts of the cornea and stimulate healing.

How is a corneal ulcer treated?

Treatment of corneal ulcers at Acorn House

How is a corneal ulcer diagnosed?

A shallow corneal ulcer will be treated with lubricating antibiotic eye drops and pain relief. It is important that a vet checks the eye every few days to make sure that healing occurs as expected.

The vets at Acorn House have a lot of experience with corneal ulcers. The practice possesses an operating microscope which allows us to visualise the delicate structures of the eye in great detail. Staff are on site 24 hours a day, so are able to apply eye drops around the clock when necessary. 57

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Home Counties Loft Ladders, Quality You Can Trust! These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept – but where to store it all? That’s where Home Counties Loft Ladders come in. The company, based locally, offers homeowners the opportunity to maximise their storage space with a loft ladder, 50sqft of boarding and a light - all fully fitted in less than a day from just £355! But it’s not just the affordability of the package that makes Home Counties Loft Ladders stand out, as manager Jamie Oakley explains: ‘Our

watchwords are Quality, Integrity and Value. Quality in the materials that we use for all our installations and the fact that all our loft packages are fitted by time served tradesmen, so our customers are assured of the best job.

- that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles. At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for

every installation we carry out!’ So, if you want to make use of your loft space, call Jamie free on 0808 301 9559 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft!

Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we say and make sure the house is spotless when we leave, and value in that we offer our services at a price people can afford. Our business relies on referrals and we get a huge amount of our calls from people who have been referred to us by our existing customers

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The Great Outdoors

WILDLIFE IN THE UK - LITTLE OWLS GREG COYNE, WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER

Little owls are very common all over England but rarely seen in Scotland and Wales. They are a small owl and usually eat small mammals and birds, beetles and worms. Before I moved to Warwickshire earlier this year, I had a favourite spot about 20 minutes out of Bedford where I could watch and photograph little owls. The beauty of these owls is that they can often be seen during daylight hours sitting on a fence post, telegraph pole or branch of a tree - but not many people look upwards when they are out in the countryside. Recently I heard about a couple of little owls that could be viewed from a local hide so I decided to spend a day there with my camera. During lockdown my camera had been gathering dust so I thought it would be nice to get out and about again. I wasn’t disappointed by these little owls. The hide was superbly placed, a short distance from

the oak tree they had made their home. They had taken over a hole halfway up the trunk and I had been told they were feeding young inside. With offerings of food (mealworms and garden worms) strategically placed on the perches in front of the hide, I was expecting quite a few visits. The forecast was for changeable weather all day. Normally owls stay out of heavy rain but when they have young who are relying on being fed those rules tend to go out of the window. In fact, I had only been in the hide for fifteen minutes, and was still setting up my camera, when a small face peered out of the tree trunk hole. Bingo! Over the next three hours I had so many visits to the perches that I lost count. The owl would pop down to the perch, pose for my pictures and then grab some food and head back to the young at the nest. As with much of wildlife that I study, there was a lull in the action around

I wasn’t disappointed by these little owls. The hide was superbly placed, a short distance from the oak tree they had made their home.

were just as frenetic as the morning session. In fact, both parents were ferrying food back to the youngsters. The owls in the rain, looking a bit bedraggled, made great photography and, by slowing down the speed of the camera, I captured some nice rain trail photographs.

the middle of the day. But as it went quiet in the tree, it certainly wasn’t quiet outside as a large storm rolled in. It became dark with torrential rain and large hailstones and, as the rain continued into the afternoon, I was unsure whether the little owl parents would venture out again. But they did and the visits

I intend to go back to see the little owl family as soon as the youngsters start to venture from the hole and start branching - exercising their wings, hopping around on the branches around the hole entrance. I hope you enjoy the photographs in this article. The little owl is a bird with attitude, strutting around and always looking grumpy, but they are really superb parents to their young. You can see more images on my Facebook Page which is Greg Coyne Photography so please check out my page, like it, and then keep up to date with my travels on a regular basis.

Are you fed up with clutter? Do you need more storage space? Well the answer could literally be under your own roof!

For many home owners, the loft is an underutilised area because it can be difficult and dangerous to reach. Bedford based loft ladder installer Access4Lofts (whose slogan is ‘creating space the easy way’) can change all that, often in less than a day! Access4Lofts provides a free survey and quote service so you can find out what is achievable with your loft area. The majority of properties have an access hatch to the space in the loft. Access4Lofts create space the easy and affordable way. They can supply and install a new loft hatch and a safe, sturdy aluminium loft ladder in your home in just one day! That means that your dark and dismal roof space suddenly becomes a useful storage area for all that family clutter.

“My experience enables fitting the ladder and converting the access hatch, in double-quick time the space is accessible and I leave no mess behind” explains Jamie Proudfoot, Access4Lofts Bedford. For extra peace of mind, Access4Lofts is an approved Which? Trusted Trader which means they have been assessed by Which? and passed their stringent checks. For added confidence, they also have full public liability insurance, are DBS checked, and all work carried out comes with a Lifetime Guarantee. To find out how Access4Lofts can create more space for you and your family or to book a free survey and quote visit www.access4lofts.co.uk/bedford or call 01234 815230. You can also find them on Facebook @ access4loftsbedford.

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LET’S GET WILD Turn your garden into a veritable paradise for the birds and the bees by creating a wildflower meadow. Simple, environmentally beneficial and stunningly beautiful. Not only is it easy to create your own little wildflower meadow, it’s also fast, meaning that any patch of land you have bare can be germinated in a matter of months. That means you could be gazing out over a carpet of poppies, cornflowers, daisies, cowslips and bluebells as summer draws to a close. Perennial flowers will flourish in uncultivated soil, whereas cornfield flowers will do better in richer earth. You can buy ready-mixed seeds which will be tailored to certain variables such as soil containing heavy clay, boggy land by the pond’s edge, or even seeds that are specifically combined to provide the maximum nourishment to bees – such pollinators include Sunflower, Borage, Evening Primrose and Corn Marigold. Make sure you thoroughly weed the soil before scattering your seeds - you need 1g per square metre of pure wildflower seeds and 5g per square metre of grass and wildflower meadow seeds – and ensure the earth remains consistently moist thereafter.

MUST-HAVE WILDFLOWERS FOR YOUR GARDEN Forget-me-not This lovely lilac biennial bloom not only adds a spray of colour to your lawn, but it also attracts various pollinators, and its leaves are eaten by the caterpillars of several moth species bringing an abundance of insect life to your garden.

Hemp Agrimony This noble native perennial looks rather striking when grown amid other more colourful wildflower varieties. Preferring the shade, it grows tall and untamed and provides a delectable nectar for butterflies. Ox-eye Daisies Tall and gracious, these white and yellow beauties are easy to grow – they thrive in the sun – though they can also overwhelm a plot if not kept in check. Cornflowers Cornflowers bring a touch of exotic elegance to your flowerbed. Surprisingly hardy, they flower from late spring into brilliant white flowers with deep purple stamens that bees, unsurprisingly, find irresistible. Common Knapweed Though some may view it as a pest, this nonetheless brings its own rugged loveliness to your wildflower crop and also will provide food for birds if seed heads are left over winter. Honeysuckle With its vibrant white, pink and yellow petals and unusually long tendrils, one might be forgiven for thinking this a flower from another planet, but this fragrant bloom is as British and as iconic as they come. Foxgloves Bright, abundant and beautiful with its tubular purple flowers, these are ideal for the back of your miniature flower meadow as they grow tall and regal attracting many a bumblebee.

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Bedford Town

Football Club

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*NO JOB TOO SMALL* Excitement is gathering at the Eyrie with pre-season friendlies due to start at the end of June. A varied line up of home and away fixtures have been announced (see below), with the final friendlies due to be released shortly. Players have also begun putting pen to paper for the season ahead, the first Alex Street, the former Kings Lynn shot stopper who played just once for The Eagles before matches were suspended last season, but his display in that match was enough to convince the Bedford Town faithful that in Street they have a keeper that is something special. Off the pitch the club have a new operations manager. Dan Coultard, comes with ten years’ experience in the events, media and hospitality industry, he said, “Bedford Town FC is close to my heart and I feel proud to step into a growing club that’s moving in all the right directions.” Successfully getting the Eyrie out of lockdown is one of Dan’s first tasks and he is formulating a series of off pitch social events, the first announced being Comedy Mania UK’s ‘LOVE ME SOME COMEDY’ with an all-star line-up and afterparty! Coming to The Eyrie on Friday 9th July 2021, more information at https://bit.ly/3byPdZn. BEDFORD TOWN’S PRE-SEASON LINE-UP. Tuesday 29th June Biggleswade FC Peterborough Sports Saturday 3rd July Tuesday 6th July Newport Pagnell Town St Ives Town Saturday 10th July Tuesday 20th July Harborough Town Saturday 24th July Wealdstone Tuesday 3rd August Hitchin Town

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Leadwork Experts Tiling Slating Flat Roofs Facias and Guttering

Insurance Work Council Approved All Work Guaranteed All Types of Roofing

Established 1967 with over 40 years experience

MOBILE 07774 452295 3, PRINKNASH ROAD, PUTNOE, BEDFORD, MK41 8DJ

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

Blues Community Sports Coaches Required Blues Community are looking for motivated individuals to join the growing community team and play a key role in the next stage of our development as we look to widen our delivery across Bedfordshire. Coaches will deliver on our programmes within the community; this will include school projects, club initiatives, rugby camps, charity outreach programmes and various other casual coaching opportunities as required. This may occasionally include sports other than rugby, so a wide array of sporting knowledge would be preferable. Reporting to the Head of Community, Adam King, these opportunities offer great flexibility with a variety of part-time or occasional sessions available. Blues Community is committed to upskilling all staff and will help support personal coaching development throughout this process. Hourly rate / salary will be competitive and based on experience. Please email your CV and a covering letter to Adam King at community@bedfordrugby.co.uk to apply for these positions and join a growing community team at the heart of Bedford’s premier sporting club. For full details regarding these positions, head to www.bedfordrugby.co.uk 75

Air Conditioning RP-X Services

Dairies 61

Artichects APC Design & Planning

Bevistan Dairy Riverside Dairy

Domestic Appliance Repairs JB Domestic Ltd

Artificial Grass Prestige Lawns

QP Interiors

Highpoint Construction

Cafes & Tea Rooms The Barn Cardington Ridgemont Station Heritage Centre

Care Homes Sharnbrook House

Swarme 25

23 21 48 58

Chiropodists and Podiatrists 27

46 55

Clock Sales & Repairs Bedford Clocks

Clothing Claytons at Hatters Lodgeway Countrywear

29 23

Computer Repair/Maintenance/Sales Oakley IT

Pad Thai

French In Beds

Neville Funeral Service

Furniture Restoration H C Restorations

Almond Garage Doors Argent Installations Garolla Holdings Limited 4 Counties Garage Doors

78 72 37 53

Garden Sevices/Supplies Bryan Johnson Landscapes 79 ColourFence 73 Eden Tree Specialists 72 Garden Building Services Limited 67 KH Garden Services 79 MJ Nicholson 79 Prestige Lawns 69 Top Turf Artificial Grass Cleaning 73 TPI Garden Services 69 Whites ES Ltd Garden Machinery 79

Guttering Services

Curtains & Blinds Emperor Blinds Cool & Classic

19 16 35

Garage Doors

Cleaning Services Aroma Clean Citrus Clean

Browns of Stagsden Hill Farm The Barn Cardington

Funeral Services

Charities

Saxon Footcare

Farm Shops

French Tuition

Carpets & Flooring

Age UK Gardening Service Age UK Home Help Service Bedford Daycare Hospice Phoenix French Bulldog Rescue

Food Delivery

Care Services

A&A Carpets

36 74

Escape Rooms Don’t Get Locked In

35 39

Electrician Craddock Electrical Services Ltd M Halls Electrical

Builders

Drain Specialists Drain Doctor

Bathrooms

16 19

78 31

MK Guttering

Hair & Beauty

Property Agents

Orchid Hair & Beauty 23 Enhance 27

Artistry Property Home Move

Health & Wellbeing

Property Maintenance

Future-Edge Therapy

Hot Tubs M Spa

HomeFix ( Home Counties ) Ltd Mr Fix Property Maintenance

Dream Doors

Bubbles Laundrette

Locksmith A Rocket

Cool & Classic

Access4Lofts 65 Home Counties Loft Ladders 60

Speech Therapy Childhood Communication Consultancy

Deborah Hair

Panacea Museum Higgins Bedford

40 41

Not Just Travel

Tree Surgeons

Schuur 79

Eden Tree Specialists

Painting & Decorating

Upholstery 66 78 59 78

Personalised Gifts Marf 39

Plasterer CM Plastering

Pet Supplies Thumpers Pet Supplies

Travel Agent

Outdoor Living

Bromham Painting & Decorating Colours Professional Craig Johnson David Lower Decorating

Theatres Sharnbrook Theatre

Museums

Soft Furnishings

Loft Ladders

Mobile Hairdresser

66 74

Skip Hire Paul Riches

Roofing/Roofing Merchants Bridge Roofing Start 1967 Roofing

Laundry & Ironing Services

9 75

Pubs & Restaurants The Sun Felmersham

Kitchen Doors

2 13

M & S Upholstery

Used Car Buyers Paul Jones Cars

Vets Acorn House Veterinary Hospital

Water Features SI Waterscapes

Will Writing The Will Writing Company

Plumbing & Heating BHC Heating & Plumbing CM Plumbing The Bedford Plumbers TR Donnelly

55 11 49 79

Windows, Doors & Conservatories Bromham Windows Cloudy 2 Clear Kempston Windows

59 84 53

A DV E RT I S E R I N D E X 77

CLOCK SALES & REPAIRS

CLASSIFIEDS

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 FURNITURE RESTORATION

DECORATING SERVICES

DAVID LOWER DECORATING SERVICES Interior & Exterior Decorating Local – Bedford based Over 40 years experience Competitive Rates Discounts for Senior Citizens

ANTIQUE & MODERN FURNITURE REPAIR AND RESTORATION IN BEDFORDSHIRE

RESTORERS OF ANTIQUE & MODERN FURNITURE. FRENCH POLISHING. French Polishing&•MODERN Kitchen FURNITURE. Worktop Sand & Re-oil RESTORERS OF ANTIQUE FRENCH POLISHING. HAYDN CLARKE

Call 01234 307411 or 07973 470650

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

FRENCH TUITION

Learn French at home

COLOURS PROFESSIONAL

New members are welcome to join French daytime and evening classes on Zoom. Individual lessons are also available.

Painter & Decorator based in Great Barford

Please see the website or call for details.

City & Guilds Level 2 No job too big or too small

Thea Hughes BA (Hons) MA

www.frenchinbeds.org 07941 869424

Jamie McCartney Tel: 07538

174703

coloursprofessional@gmail.com

FURNISHINGS

GARAGE DOORS Complete Re-upholstery Service

M&S Upholstery

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

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

HEATING SERVICES

T.R.Donnelly

HEATING SERVICES

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

WHITES ES LTD

Another Bespoke Timber Outbuilding Designed and Another Bespoke Timber Outbuilding Designed and Built by OUTDOOR LIVING

Domestic & Commercial Garden Machinery College Farm, Lovell Road, Oakley, MK43 7RX 01234 826066 in info@whites-online.co.uk www.whites-online.co.uk www.whites-online.co.uk Tel: 01234 826066 College Farm, Lovell Road, Oakley, Bedford, MK43 7RX Sales, Service, Parts, Repair & Hire Briggs & Stratton Service Centre

Another Another Another Bespoke Bespoke Bespoke Timber Timber Timber Outbuilding Another Outbuilding Outbuilding Bespoke Designed Designed Designed Timber and and Outbuilding Built and Builtby Built by byDesigned and A Built

Another Bespoke Timber Outbuilding Designed and Built by

Garden Offices, Garden Studios, Garden Annexes, Garden Also Available Indespenison Garden Garden Garden Offices, Offices, Offices, Garden Garden Garden Studios, Studios, Garden Studios, Garden Garden Offices, Garden Annexes, Annexes, Garden Annexes, Garden Garden Studios, Garden Rooms Rooms Garden Rooms Annexes, Garden Ro G Garden Offices, Garden Studios, Garden Annexes, Garden Rooms Garden Offices, Garden Studios, Garden Annexes, Garden Rooms & Brian James Trailers

07742 - - 07810 0460 07742 07742 07742 508050 508050 07742 -- 508050 --07810 508050 07810 046960 046960 046960 07810 04696 Andy508050 07742 508050 •07810 Dave 07810046960 07742 508050 07810 046960 07742 508050 07810 046960 A www.schuur.co.uk www.schuur.co.uk www.schuur.co.uk www.schuur.co.uk www.schuur.co.uk www.schuur.co.uk www.schuur.co.uk

and more.

SPEECH THERAPY

USED CAR DISPOSAL

K H Garden Services

• All garden maintenance undertaken • Grass cutting, hedge cutting etc • Regular maintenance and contract work • Reliable, professional, friendly service • Locally based company - Fully insured

Contact: 07708 594746 79

UsefulResources ACCESS BEDFORD Works with the D/deaf and hard of hearing community to make Bedford Borough more accessible. They also have a facebook social group for Deaf people living in and around Bedford

BEDFORDSHIRE RURAL COMMUNITIES CHARITY Delivering a wide range of rural development and community projects. Tel 01234 838771 www.bedsrcc.org.uk

Tel 07376 262 873 www.accessbedford.org.uk

AGE UK BEDFORDSHIRE

BEDFORDSHIRE WELLBEING SERVICE

Local organisation solely devoted to the welfare of the over 50’s in Bedfordshire.

Offers a range of free and confidential talking therapies and specialist support to help you feel better.

Tel 01234 360510 www.ageuk.org.uk/bedfordshire

Tel 01234 880400 www.bedfordshirewellbeingservice.nhs.uk

AUTISM BEDFORDSHIRE Independent charity dedicated to improving the lives of autistic people and their families across Bedfordshire.. Tel 01234 350704 www.autismbedfordshire.net BEDFORD BOROUGH LOCAL OFFER A place where parents and young people with Special Educational Needs and or disabilities can find clubs, activities and services to support them and their families Here you will find details of upcoming events, clubs and services available in the Borough of Bedford. www.localoffer.bedford.gov.uk

BEDFORD DAYCARE HOSPICE Provides individualised holistic care to patients suffering with a life-limiting condition from the point of diagnosis through treatment to remission or palliative care. Tel 01234 352 015 www.bedforddaycarehospice.org.uk

BEDFORD WOMEN’S CENTRE Supporting women in the community who may have experienced Domestic Abuse or want more information about healthy relationships. Tel 01234 316801 www.bedfordwomenscentre.org.uk

BOLD Supporting and advocating for people with a learning disability and challenging behaviours. Tel 01234 352899 www.bo4ld.org.uk

CARERS IN BEDFORDSHIRE Local charity helping unpaid carers of all ages and backgrounds to cope with the stresses of their caring role. Tel 0300 111 1919 www.carersinbeds.org.uk

CATS PROTECTION Tel 0345 260 2505 www.cats.org.uk/bedford

CHUMS

MINDBLMK

Mental health and emotional wellbeing service for children and young people

Supporting positive mental health and wellbeing.

01525 863924 www.chumscharity.org

COMMUNITY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE (CVS ) Support for voluntary and community sector organisations in Bedfordshire. Tel 01234 354366 www.cvsbeds.org.uk

Tel 0300 330 0648 www.mind-blmk.org.uk

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS THERAPY CENTRE BEDS & NORTHANTS Provides help, support and therapy for those with MS in Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire. Tel 01234 325781 www.mscentrebedsandnorthants.com

FACES (FAMILY AND CHILDREN’S EARLYHELP SERVICES)

OPEN DOOR Charity providing FREE and confidential counselling

local independent charity offering practical and emotional support to families under stress.

to young people aged 13 – 25.

01234 270601 www.facesbedford.org

Tel 01234 360388 www.bedfordopendoor.org.uk

FAMILIES FIRST BEDFORDSHIRE 01234 341977 www.familiesfirstbedfordshire.org.uk

FRIENDS FOR LIFE A local charity working to address the social isolation of residents in Bedford’s care homes Tel 07460 575410 www.friendsforlifebedford.org.uk

ROAD VICTIMS TRUST Offers a range of free support services to residents of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire who have been affected by fatal road collisions. Tel 01234 843345 www.rvtrust.org.uk

SMILEY CLUB (PART OF BEDFORD MENCAP) Provides a fun social club for boys and girls from 9 to 18 who have learning disabilities. Tel 07798 762 808

MEN AS VICTIMS Group support is provided for men who have experienced domestic abuse in a safe, therapeutic environment. This service is for male victims living in Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire or Luton. Tel 01234 341977 www.bedsdv.org.uk/get-help/men-as-victims/

MENCAP (BEDFORD) A voluntary organisation operating in Bedford and surrounding areas supporting individuals with a learning disability and their families. Tel 07973 859940 www.bedfordmencap.org.uk

SUE RYDER ST JOHN’S HOSPICE A specialist palliative care and treatment centre providing hospice care for people facing a frightening, lifechanging diagnosis. Tel 01767 642412 | www.sueryder.org

THE JOBS HUB Provides an all age careers advice and employment support service for people that live in and around Bedford. Tel 01234 223510 www.bedfordjobshub.co.uk

MAY PRIZE CROSSWORD

Answers

MAY 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 30th June 2021

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 30th June 2021 The Will Writing Company

Mayfair House, 11 Lurke Street, Bedford, Beds, MK40 3HZ

Tel 01234 964911

Email:enquiries@thewillwritingco.co.uk

Terms and Conditions. Office and telephone appointments available. This voucher can not be exchanged for cash – The voucher must be produced at your appointment.

Have Your Windows Steamed Up? Replace the pane, not the frame!

“I really liked the fact that they were a local community run business” Janet Beard All glazing backed by our

We are a Which? Trusted Trader Social distancing in operation

Faulty locks, handles or hinges? Priority freephone www.cloudy2clear.co.uk

Love Your Home - Protect Your Windows - Save Money

BedsLife June 2021

Articles inside

Bedford Blues

Useful Local Resources

Last months Crossword Answers

The Great Outdoors

Council Calls for Protection of Homes North of Bedford Station

Prize Crossword

Exhibitions

NGS Summer Open Gardens

Panacea Museum

Higgins Bedford

Theatre Listings

Milky’s Music Matters

Five Super Summer Fashion Trends

Health & Fitness Myths

Must Read Books for June

Produced Locally

Companions Real Bread

The Composing Cook Recipe

Keech Hospice

Volunteer Opportunities

Mamma’s House

Richard Fuller MP

Mohammad Yasin MP