BedsLife November 2021 by BedsLife Magazine

FREE NOVEMBER

2021

inside The Beds Prostate Cancer Support Group (BPCSG) WIN A Family Ticket to the Christmas at Wimpole Illuminated Trail OR a chance to see What the Ladybird Heard at Milton Keynes Theatre Words from our local MP’s

NOVEMBER 2021

What’s On – Events, Exhibitions, Theatre and Music in your local area

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Council News Richard Fuller MP Mohammad Yasin MP About Town Remembrance and Armistice Events In the Stix Prostate Cancer The Fashion Corner Book Reviews Lyd Eats Food – Burrow at the Blues The Composing Cook – Plumb and Walnut Crumble Volunteer Opportunities Prize Crossword Bedford Christmas Tree Festival Wimpole Hall Competition What’s On What the Ladybird Heard Theatre Tickets Competition Art Milky’s Music Matters Music Hospital Radio Bedford Schedule Sport & Fitness Shared Lives Acorn House Pet Advice Bedford Town FC Bedford Blues Forest of Marston Vale Gardening – Protect and Survive The Isle of Arran (Part1) Advertiser Index Useful Local Resources Last months Crossword Answers

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council news Bedford Borough Council Wins Silver Award in Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Bedford Borough Council has achieved a Silver Award in the Ministry of Defence, Defence Employer Recognition Scheme. This scheme encourages employers to support defence and inspire others to do the same. The scheme encompasses bronze, silver and gold awards for employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the armed forces community, and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant. The Council signed the Armed Forces Covenant and has a number of measures in place to help these individuals in their day-to-day lives.

These include extra leave for reservists and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers to complete training and the creation of a Force Family Focus Group to help employees with a forces link to meet and access support. The Council also provides guaranteed interviews for service leavers within two months of discharge and five years of leaving for veterans, and for reservists, where essential criteria for a role are met. The Council also proactively engages with and supports a wide range of local armed forces organisations including the Veterans Community Network through the Councils’ Covenant Steering Group. This group meets every two months and includes representatives from local regular and reserve forces and other armed forces charities, to share news and information.

Local Bus Operators launch Cygnet Bus Pass Stagecoach, Grant Palmer, Uno and Bedford Borough Council have relaunched the ‘Cygnet’ bus pass, which enables bus users to switch freely between the three local bus operators without the need to buy multiple tickets. The pass operates as a paper ticket and allows for unlimited travel on any Stagecoach, Grant Palmer and Uno bus in the Stagecoach Megarider zone, over the period of a day or a week – and users can mix and match bus providers.

The Cygnet travel zone equates to the area currently covered by the Stagecoach Megarider, which includes the whole of Bedford and Kempston, as well as surrounding villages such as Bromham, Oakley, Cople and Elstow. The ‘Cygnet’ pass is £6 for a day ticket, with the weekly ticket priced at £18.

Walk-in clinics for Booster vaccinations are now available Walk-in clinics for Booster vaccinations are now available for residents of Bedford Borough who fit the following criteria, so there is now no need to make an appointment; • • • •

live in residential care homes for older adults all adults aged 50 years or over frontline health and social care workers those aged 16 to 49 years with underlying health conditions, put them at higher risk of severe COVID-19 (as set in the green book), and adult carers

• adult household contacts of immunosuppressed individuals As long as you have proof that there has been at least six months since your second vaccine you can now walk into Bedford Heights on Manton Lane, and local pharmacies to get your COVID-19 booster vaccination. You will need to bring proof of eligibility (invite from NHS, letter from employer, confirmation from GP) together with proof of the date of your second vaccination. If you don’t have these, you will be turned away until proof can be checked.

words from

At Paris, world leaders made an important commitment to limit global heating to well below 2C above pre-industrial levels, with an aspiration not to breach 1.5C but the world has not moved fast enough and we have seen the catastrophic consequences in heatwaves, heavy rainfall, droughts and loss of Arctic Sea ice. The UK has already taken major steps in tackling climate change. We have shown that climate action can go hand-in-hand with economic growth. Between 1990 and 2019, our economy grew by 78% and our emissions decreased by 44% over this time, the fastest decline in the G7. The UK was the first major economy to put into law that we will reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and the UK is the largest producer of offshore wind energy in the world. We have announced the end of the sale of new petrol and diesel cars in the UK by 2030, putting the UK on course to be the fastest G7 country to decarbonise cars and vans and we are doubling our international climate finance to help developing nations with £11.6bn a year by 2025.

Richard Fuller, MP for North East Bedfordshire During November, the UK is hosting the UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow, the 26th Conference of Parties or COP26, to bring together world leaders and ask them to commit to urgent global climate action. COP26 will be the largest summit the UK has ever hosted, bringing together representatives from nearly 200 countries.

Important further changes lie ahead, and it is crucial that the government is transparent on the costs for these changes and leads the debate on how such costs should be shared through society. We are also planting trees on 30,000 hectares of land per year by 2025 and have announced plans that put farmers at the forefront of reversing environmental decline and tackling climate change. We will make climate-related disclosures mandatory across the economy by 2025, with most requirements coming in by 2023 and we have an ambition to have up to 2 million green jobs by 2030. The government can make large scale changes in policies, but each of us has a part to play. That is why, in the run up to the summit, I have been visiting schools across the constituency to learn what our school children are doing in their local communities to fight climate change. At Caldecote Academy, Potton Middle, Wilden Lower, Raynsford Academy, Shortstown Primary, Sutton Lower and Cotton End Forest School, I learned that school children clearly grasp the challenge ahead and are full of creative and exciting ideas of what they are doing in their school, their community, as well as at home to help the collective effort. I will be taking back to Boris Johnson the wonderful ideas I heard, which included making blankets for the homeless out of recycled crisp packets, using old cardboard for Christmas decorations and turning plastic bottles into planters. The message of COP26 is not just directed at world leaders but for all of us to act. For inspiration on what you can do, please visit https://together-for-our-planet.ukcop26.org/

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The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) published a report in August that starkly outlined the unprecedented changes we are now seeing to the Earth’s climate. Some of these changes are already irreversible and are having a devastating impact on both people and nature across the world. The report warned that under all emissions scenarios, both of the targets in the Paris Agreement – to keep the rise in global temperatures below 2C, and preferably 1.5C – will be broken this century unless huge cuts in carbon emissions take place. This catastrophic analysis has left many of us overwhelmed with fateful feelings of ‘climate doom’ – that nothing can be done. I believe we must turn this into a moment for hope, not fear. I was very struck by the recent BBC environmental series ‘The Earthshot Prize: Repairing Our Planet’, which celebrates the amazing ingenuity of people across the world to find solutions to the climate crisis. This sort of transformative action, at both a scientific and a policy level, is what will help to save our planet.

Mohammad Yasin, MP for Bedford and Kempston With less than three weeks to go until COP26, the upcoming UN climate change conference in Glasgow, green issues have never been more important.

In Bedford we already have a growing community of people who want to make a difference. I recently met a number of constituents at Green Earth Café, a wonderful vegan café situated in the town centre, in honour of Great Big Green Week. The GBGW campaign has centred around organising a nationwide week of events to raise awareness of the urgent need for climate action, calling on politicians to unite against climate change. The team in Bedford has been incredibly active, and it was excellent to speak with these constituents and the local Green Councillors on key issues and Labour’s green credentials. I am proud of Labour’s impactful green policies. We are committed to a Green Industrial Revolution with 1 million jobs in the UK to transform our industry and economy; a Green New Deal aiming to reduce the majority of our transmissions by 2030, with the costs of this green transition falling fairly; a National Transformation Fund of £400bn to ensure every Treasury investment is compatible with climate goals and targets; a net-zero carbon energy system within the 2030s; and an environmental bill with binding standards for decarbonisation and nature recovery. As we look forward to COP26, we must be clear on our green policies and ensure that we actively take leaps – not just steps – to truly address these issues. I believe that the Labour policies are clear, tangible and impactful, and Boris Johnson needs to follow suit. It is down to the Prime Minister to offer distinct policies and commit to putting real time and money towards climate finance. COP26 is watershed moment for humanity and I can only hope, party politics aside, that we can look back on this conference and be grateful that the UK truly seized the moment and helped save our planet’s future.

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FREE DROP IN SESSIONS BedsRCC are hosting a free Drop-In session on the first Thursday of every month, with the next one being on the 4th November 2021 between 10am and 12pm at Christ the King Church Hall, Harrowden Road, Bedford, MK42 0SP. You will be able to access free support and information, or you can just pop in for a chat with one of our attending organisations. All are welcome. Please contact Sophie on 07951 175241 if you would like more information. Some of the organisations attending are, BedsRCC Social Prescribing team, BPHA, Carers in Bedfordshire, Citizens Advice Bureau, Direction for Bedfordshire and NOAH Academy.

REWIND RETRO ARCADE Have you paid a visit to the Rewind Retro Arcade in The Arcade, Bedford yet? A paradise for gamers, the retro arcade takes you back in time to much loved Retro Arcade days where you can take a nostalgic trip down memory lane and play classics such as Mortal Kombat, Dig Dug, Donkey Kong, Space Invaders and of course, Pac Man. There is even a pinball machine and original retro games consoles. All machines are set to free play all you need to do is buy a ticket for your 1hr and 45min slot through their website www.rewind-entertainment-merchandise.com/ book-online then play until your hearts content.

A NEW HOME FOR WATERSTONES In its bright and shiny new location in Midland Road, Waterstones Bedford will continue to serve both local citizens and the large number of tourists who visit our lovely and historic county town. The new store will include a large Children’s department, a thriving Fiction section, as well as a wide range of Non-Fiction books. The new store will also have a great range of Gifts and Stationery, just in time for Christmas!

NORTH BEDFORDSHIRE CAMRA (CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE) AWARDS 2021 A huge well done to three Bedford pubs who all won awards in this year’s North Bedfordshire CAMRA awards. The Devonshire Arms in Dudley Street was named pub of the year for the second year running, the newly re-opened Gordon Arms in Castle Road picked up most improved pub, and the White Horse in Newnham Avenue won community pub of the year.

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Remembrance and Armistice Events in Bedford Borough Bedford Borough Council, the Bedford branch of the Royal British Legion and other partners are working together again this year on events to mark Remembrance Day and Armistice Day. While last year these events had to take place on a much smaller scale, due to COVID-19 restrictions, this year they will return to their traditional format with members of the public invited to take part and pay their respects. Sunday 14 November – Remembrance Day Wreath Laying Ceremony The traditional wreath laying ceremony and marchpast will be held at the War Memorial, Bedford Embankment at 11am. After the wreath laying, the Parade will march down the Embankment, across the High Street and St Paul’s Square, finishing in Harpur Square. Wreath laying ceremonies are also taking place at the South African Campaign Memorial (outside the

Swan Hotel), at Elstow Abbey, and in villages across the Borough. Kempston Town Council have arranged a Remembrance Service at Kempston East Methodist Church on Sunday 14 November at 14.30, followed by a parade to the War Memorial for the silence and the laying of wreaths. Thursday 11 November – Armistice Day Commemoration and Two-Minute Silence There will be an Armistice Day Commemoration and two-minute silence in Riverside Square, Bedford. Members of the public are asked to arrive for 10.40am. The RBL Poppy Shop at 20 Harpur Street will be offering tea and coffee, supplied by Morrisons, to all veterans after the Armistice Service. While the Council and RBL are planning these more traditional Remembrance and Armistice services this year, they will continue to monitor government advice for mass gatherings to ensure the health and safety of participants, which remains the priority, and update accordingly.

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I N TH E STI X Local groups launched to protect river and valley

New Barns Farm in Carlton for a fantastic insight into environmental farming practices. Families enjoyed a tractor-trailer ride with a talk about strategies used to increase biodiversity and soil health, followed by fun and pizzas at the glamping site. For further information find us on Facebook Bedfordshire Great Ouse Valley Environmental Trust or email us at bedsgovet@btinternet.com.

Royal honour for Sharnbrook theatre volunteers Bedfordshire Great Ouse Valley Environmental Trust (Beds GOVET) and Stevington Environmental Group (SEG) were launched during the recent Great Big Green Week. Beds GOVET is a new charity addressing climate change and its impact on the Great Ouse Valley. Its aim is to protect the river and valley from pollution, further loss of biodiversity, environmental degradation and flooding as well as supporting parish communities in reducing carbon emissions and building resilience to climate change. SEG is a local community group whose aim is to support local efforts to protect and enhance the Stevington Parish Landscape, an important source of beauty, tranquillity and wellbeing for village residents. Beds GOVET and SEG came together to put on local events in Stevington. Events included an interactive, multi-media display about river health, a talk about the re-introduction of beavers across the UK to help with natural flood management and a visit to

The Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Helen Nellis, presents the award to Douglas Pope and Bob Hart

Following months of delays caused by the pandemic, the volunteer team at Sharnbrook Mill Theatre has finally been presented with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS). QAVS is equivalent to the MBE and is the highest award a voluntary group can receive in the UK. The Lord Lieutenant for Bedfordshire, Helen Nellis, presented the award to the Trust Chairman Douglas Pope and senior member Bob Hart. Douglas said: “It was an unbelievably emotional and proud moment for me personally to receive the award on behalf of everyone.”

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IN THE STIX During the celebratory evening, guests – who included The High Sheriff Eric Masih and the Mayor of Bedford Dave Hodgson – were treated to a supper platter accompanied throughout by Kaye Tompkins playing a miscellany of show music. A superb revue was performed by members with songs and excerpts from plays with the additional guest appearance of Jamie Tyler, one of the theatre’s past members and now a celebrated professional. “It was a wonderful evening for all those present and one that will go down as one of the greatest in Sharnbrook Mill Theatre history,” said Douglas.

Fireworks are back with a bang!

Catch a movie in Harrold

Friday Film Nights have returned to Harrold Centre. This popular event provides an opportunity for local people to watch films with their family and friends at a very reasonable price. Films are screened on the third Friday of the month and a licensed bar is available in addition to tea, coffee, and ice cream both before the film and in the interval. The hall is fully accessible to wheelchair users. Since starting, audiences have enjoyed a variety of superb films including The Artist, The King’s Speech, Black Swan, Life of Pi, Skyfall and Rocketman.

Saturday 6 November sees the return of the fantastic firework displays in the Ouse Valley villages. The Sharnbrook Scouts 47th Grand Fireworks Display takes place at South Field, Tofte Manor at 7pm with gates opening and BBQ food available from 6.15pm. Advance tickets – children £2, adults £3 – are available at Pick-a-Lily florist or The Co-op until Friday 5 November. Prices on the gate are children £3, adults £5. www.sharnbrookscouts.webs.com Oakley Sports & Social Club hosts its annual event at 5.30pm with the firework display at 7.30pm. This popular family event includes a mini funfair, BBQ, stalls selling LED wands and swords, popcorn and candy floss, and warm waffles and desserts from Mr Ice Cream Man. Tickets, which are available from the club house and post office, are priced at family £10, adult £5 and child £3. www.oakleyssc.com

November’s film, on Friday 19th, is the Oscar and Bafta-winning The Father (12A) starring Anthony Hopkins and Olivia Colman. Doors and bar open at 7pm with the film starting at 7.30pm. Tickets are £5 for adults, £4 concessions and can be bought at the door, in advance at Harrold Post Office, or online at ticketsource.co.uk/adhoc.

Christmas in Blunham

Blunham Parish Council are looking to build on the success of last year, which saw Christmas lights twinkling through the village for the first time. This year’s Christmas lights switch on will be on 27 November to coincide with the traditional Blunham Christmas Market. The Parish Council are looking to work with the church and volunteers to plan a wonderful Christmas in Blunham. If you would like to get involved, please get in touch www.blunham-pc.gov.uk

Do you have some village news to share? Email jacqui@bedslifemagazine.co.uk Copy deadline for the December issue is 10 November. 16

PROSTATE CANCER Facts & advice for men over 40 Prostate Cancer did not stop affecting men because of Covid-19. In fact a recent survey showed that urgent referrals by GPs in England dropped by over 52,000 since March 2020. As a result over 8,600 fewer men in England started treatment for Prostate Cancer (PCa) in 2020. In 2018 a total of 49,029 men in England were diagnosed with PCa. This is more than ladies diagnosed with breast cancer. In 2017 12,301 men died of the disease which is approximately one every 45 minutes. An early diagnosis of PCa makes an enormous difference. When the cancer is still in the early stages and hasn’t grown outside the Prostate, treatments like radiotherapy and surgery are very effective. One in 8 men will get PCa in their lifetime and for Black men it is 1 in 4. It occurs mostly in men over the age of 40. It is vital to detect PCa at an early stage. There are continual advances in medical science. However, the only readily available detection method currently available is the PSA blood test, which is simple and relatively inexpensive. Many men will have PCa without realising it as they do not have any symptoms.

This usually is to do with frequency or difficulty in passing urine. If men do have this symptom it may only be due to an enlarged Prostate or that it’s infected. Further tests will be required to determine if it is PCa. The Beds Prostate Cancer Support Group (BPCSG) has in the past put on PSA test events around Bedfordshire. However, due to Covid-19 this has had to stop. As an interim measure BPCSG are promoting a PCa home test kit. This can be ordered from BPCSG’s web site www.bpcsg.org.uk. BPCSG pay half the cost of this kit for those men who live in Bedfordshire. Enter the code BEDS50 in the relevant box when registering for the kit to get the 50% discount. The kit is very easy to use as it only requires a simple finger-prick via a small springloaded device. So, if you are male and over 40 years old, or have a husband, partner or relative eligible please consider having a PSA test. It could save your or their life. Don’t be one more person adding to the 8.600 men fewer men who started treatment for PCa.

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Well-read winter warmers As the nights draw in, here are a selection of biographical new releases designed to keep you company.

Never Give Up by Bear Grylls Bear Grylls’ sequel to the multi-million copy selling global phenomenon Mud, Sweat and Tears continues to chronicle the global adventurer and presenter’s life and career since stepping onto screen, taking readers along with him on his most famous adventures, sharing personal stories from his favourite expeditions, and capturing his hairiest survival challenges. He documents valuable lessons he’s learned in the wild, opens up about his most personal challenges and achievements, and celebrates the true value of adventure and the enduring importance of courage, kindness and resilience. Published by Transworld on October 28th Reflections by Holly Willoughby A heartfelt, perceptive book about finding beauty, inside and out, Holly Willoughby is the UK’s most popular female TV presenter and is best known for her work on This Morning, Dancing on Ice and, formerly, Celebrity Juice. The book explores the idea of gaining courage, contentment and awareness from within, recognising the beauty that is within all of us and promoting the opportunity to take time to look after ourselves, rather than just others. “I’m finally at a point in my life where I can see a little more clearly,” Holly says. “Writing is such a personal process and between these pages you will find many 22

little pieces of me. I want to share my truths in the hope that maybe they’ll help you too.” Published by Transworld on October 28th My Life in Dire Straits by John Illsley One of the most iconic and important British pop/rock bands of a generation, Dire Straits cracked America at a time when many consistently struggled to engage with the US audience, in the process building a transatlantic fan following that celebrated beautiful tracks, heartfelt anthems and timeless melodies that stand the test of time some four decades on. In this revealing tale of life as a founding member of Dire Straits, bassist John Illsley reveals the working man’s clubs to Madison Square Gardens, sharing gigs with wild punk bands to the Live Aid stage at Wembley. Published by Penguin on November 9th Rebel Homemaker by Drew Barrymore Drew Barrymore has always done things in her own rebellious way – including how she cooks, lives, and finds happiness at home. Drew shares recipes, stories and personal photos that show how you too can live a healthy, delicious, and joyful life in her first lifestyle book Rebel Homemaker. From cooking to wellness, health and family, this heartfelt book looks to explore slowing down, enjoying the joy of family, as well as investing in future projects, including in oneself. Published by Cornerstone on November 2nd

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Caring for your home

Offering an honest, reliable and professional domestic cleaning service. We would be happy to visit you to discuss your requirements. Within the relaxing surroundings of Ravensden, Bedford, DBS and fully insured. References available. Callchecked to enquire: 07491149674 LEVEL 3 MASSAGE CERTIFICATE 2020

Aromatherapy

Back Massage £10 CLEANERS WANTED Full Body Massage £15 ARE YOU RELIABLE, HARD WORKING Facial with mask £10 AND ENJOY CLEANING? WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Call Sue on 07792 369102 citruscleanuk@gmail.com To advertise with us, please contact christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

Burrow at the Blues Step through the leafy green archway on Goldington Road and you’ll find one of Bedford’s most exciting venues. Overlooking the Bedford Blues grounds, you’ll find a secret spot serving up street food and good times. Whether you want to watch the rugby or have drinks with friends, they’ve got you covered. The service is super friendly and you can even bring your pooch along too. The bar is a converted container with big tables, festoon lighting and lots of heaters for keeping warm over the winter. There’s a great choice of drinks which includes a cocktail menu, I’ll have the raspberry limoncello fizz please! The food is no messing and will please the whole family. The buttermilk chicken burger was my favourite, perfectly crispy batter and juicy chicken inside. You have to get the dirty fries too, they do not hold back on the toppings. The fries are smothered in cheese, bacon, crispy onions and loads of sauce, too good to share! The meat is locally sourced from Lingers butchers and there are vegan options on the menu too. With winter drawing in, this really is the perfect spot to spend a cosy evening. A hidden gem that you need to try!

Find me on Instagram @lydeatsfood for all your local foodie finds!

A friendly family business providing the very best products for your family’s Christmas

STOP AT STAGSDEN

for all your seasonal produce

Chr istm o now rde as bei rs n

• Home reared turkey, beef and pork • Locally produced poultry and lamb • Fresh fruit and vegetables

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• Extensive range of tasty accompaniments • Licensed Tearoom serving hot/cold drinks, light lunches & delicious Homemade cakes

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OPENING TIMES:

Tues - Thurs 10am to 4pm Fri 10am to 5pm Sat 9am to 3pm

info@brownsofstagsden.co.uk

Manor Farm, Church Lane, Stagsden, MK43 8SH 25

Browns Ad DEC20 FP.indd 1

16/11/2020 14:13

The Composing Cook The Composing Cook

WINTER PLUM & WALNUT CRUMBLE

I have one word for this crumble, and that is COMFORT!!! This is a total comfort pudding to the max. This is just what you want to be eating on a cold winter’s night. It can also be made in advance and be enjoyed any time of the day.

INGREDIENTS: For The Filling 1kg plums (fresh or frozen) halved & de-stoned 30g unsalted butter roughly cubed 2-3 tablespoons caster sugar 2 tablespoons cornflour 2 tablespoons water For The Crumble Topping 200g walnuts 150g unsalted butter 250g self raising flour 150g demerara sugar Serves 6-8

Preheat the oven to 190°C/gas mark 5 and put in a baking sheet. Place the plums into a 20cm round pie dish along with the unsalted butter, caster sugar, cornflour and water. Mix well and cook in the oven for 20 minutes (30 minutes if frozen) and stir half way through cooking. Remove from oven, put to one side to allow the sauce to cool slightly and thicken. Place the walnuts into a processor and pulse a few times. You want a mixture of big bits, small bits and crumbs. Remove from processor. Add the unsalted butter and self raising flour to the processor and process until you have a crumbly, almost ‘porridge oats’ like texture. Place into a bowl along with the walnuts and demerara sugar and mix well clumping a few bits together. Place the crumble mixture on top of the plums, pressing down lightly. Place on the baking sheet in the oven and cook for 45-60 minutes. You want the topping to be speckled golden brown. At this stage you can turn the oven off and just leave the crumble in the oven. It will happily sit in this state for hours. If anything, it’s always good to rest the crumble for a good 20 minutes before eating. Serve with double cream or custard.

You can watch me make this recipe, 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 Cooking.

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

as Christm w o orders n en k being ta

Prim eb from eef happ our y cat tle

OPENING TIMES

Thursday & Friday 9am-5.30pm Saturday 9am-4pm Sunday 9am-12 noon

Check Facebook for our Christmas opening times

Home reared beef, local pork, lamb, free-range chicken and eggs, milk and honey All meat reared on farms with guaranteed traceability and no added hormones British, continental and local cheese, bacon, pork pies, pâté, cured meats, olives No time to cook? We have homemade pies, curries and hotpots using our own beef

01234 781405 / 07834 257928 mjhurley@btinternet.com Visit us at www.hillfarmshop.com Look out for our Christmas offers on Facebook Hill Farm, Mill Road, Sharnbrook MK44 1NP

To advertise with us, please contact christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

IMPAKT Housing and Support – Upcycler We are looking for practical and creative people who wish to create bespoke pieces from donated furniture and fabrics. Upcylers may be based either in our Bedford workshop, or may work from home.

Linking Lives – Befriending Service Volunteer Our Befriending Service Volunteers contact and visit adults in need of a listening ear and friendship establishing a good relationship and going on to offer help with integrating into activities in the local community.

Friendship Link and Action Group – General Helper

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteering brings great rewards and your time will be well spent as you support the community around you. We are bringing new opportunities on to our Simply Connect system every week and you can view these and many more at our Simply Connect online facility where you can register as a volunteer and apply. 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 28

We are looking for volunteers to help our events for adults with a physical or learning disability in the Bedford area to run smoothly. Some events require volunteers to help with non-personal support, such as pushing a wheelchair or getting a drink from the bar.

Cancer Research UK – Committee Members We are seeking committed individuals to take on the exciting role of being part of a committee to organise an annual Relay For Life in Bedfordshire. Each Relay is an overnight, community-led, nonathletic event where teams set up camp and take it in turns to walk around a track for up to 24 hours to signify that ‘cancer never sleeps’.

Age UK Bedfordshire – Advisor (Home Visits) You will be part of a service to people who cannot attend Age UK offices but need support in gaining access to information and advice or completing forms. Home visits can be made with a member of staff, or another volunteer.

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

CMY

£25

Bumper Prize Crossword Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this section and send to the address below before Friday 12th November Prize Crossword, BedsLife, 17 Foxbrook, Stevington, Bedfordshire MK43 7QY Last Months Crossword Winner – Caroline Nash, Brickhill

For last months answers please turn to P82

Across

1 Second in command (6) 4 Person who maltreats or harms (6) 9 Flammable gas (7) 10 Small herring (5) 11 British Actress _____ Mirren (5) 12 American term for poorly educated person from the south (7) 13 Weaken, fall apart (11) 18 Delinquent, thug (7)

Name:

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20 Man-made fibre (5) 22 Home of Glasgow Rangers (5) 23 _______ Man – Beatles song (7) 24 There are eleven in the song ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ (6) 25 Large snake (6)

Down

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5 Located, stationed (5) 6 Glut, plethora (7) 7 Second try at an exam (6) 8 The action of enlisting new people (11) 14 Activity done purely to increase someone’s sense of self-importance (3,4) 15 Escapee, fugitive (7) 16 Shellfish (6) 17 Hidden, not noticed (6) 19 Famous Egyptian city (5) 21 Blood-sucking worm (5)

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T 01234 843222 www.abbott-funerals.co.uk support@abbott-funerals.co.uk 150 BEDFORD ROAD, KEMPSTON, BEDFORDSHIRE, MK42 8BH

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The Café at Peacocks Our unique dining destination, set with modern Italian designer furniture, overlooks the busy salerooms and comfortably seats over 100 customers. Groups and families with children are welcome to meet and professionals may choose to take advantage of our free wifi and private conference rooms. Alternatively, you could choose to take-away and enjoy your refreshments whilst browsing our forthcoming sales. Our choice of breakfasts and homemade bakes are available all day and our freshly updated lunch menu and range of hot and cold drinks are sure to satisfy all tastes.

Bedford Auction Centre, Eastcotts Park, Wallis Way, Bedford, Bedfordshire MK42 0PE Tel: 01234 266 366 | cafe@peacockauction.co.uk | www.peacockauction.co.uk To advertise with us, please contact christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

‘It’s Panto’: Bedford’s annual Christmas Tree Festival St Paul’s church, Bedford 1-5 December 2021 ‘It’s Panto ‘is this year’s Christmas Tree Festival, 1-5 December, at St Paul’s Church, Bedford; another memorable event in this atmospheric setting. It is organised jointly by and is in aid of the Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends together with the church. Come and see the 60 illuminated trees, decorated by local schools, community groups, charities and businesses. This year’s theme will give plenty of scope for imagination creating a kaleidoscope of colours. A highlight of the Festival are the daily concerts by schools and community choirs. We return visits from The Bedford Rock Choir, Music for Memory, Hammers Community Choir, Sharnbrook Community Choir, Inis Eire & the Phoenix Ladies Chorus from Potton to name but a few. A competition will help entertain young children. The annual Festival Concert will be held on Friday 3rd December, at 7.30pm with the ‘Minerva Piano Trio’ performing pieces by Ravel, Stravinsky, Mozart & Vivaldi. Tickets @ £17.50 give concert goers the chance to enjoy the trees in a night time setting. Bookings 01234 783181 or www.peoplesfundraising.com/concert-tickets. 32

Bedford ‘s Pipe Band will help to open the Festival on the morning of 1st December 10 am. In the evening 6-8 pm, ‘Fizz at the Festival’ is a private viewing in memory of Jayne Beard, a former Chairman of the Bedford Hospitals Charity. Jayne Beard Associates are very kindly sponsoring the Festival in her memory. Tickets £8.00 including canapés from mboakley@hotmail.co.uk . Festival opening hours: Wednesday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm Sunday 12 noon-4 pm Admission £3.00. Children under 16 free. Christingle Service Saturday 4th 4.00pm. Help us to beat the £13,000 record for the Festival by supporting this must see start to the Christmas season. If you wish to join the list of groups wishing to bring their choir or decorate a tree please email Margaret Oakley (Chairman) on mboakley@hotmail.co.uk Further details 01234 340163 https://bedfordhospitalcharity.org.uk/treefest www.facebook.com/bedfordchristmastreefestival www.stpaulschurchbedford.org.uk

CHRISTMAS AT WIMPOLE – THE MAGICAL AFTER-DARK ILLUMINATED TRAIL

Family ticket for four people to the Opening Night on Friday 26 November 2021 T’s & C’s Prize: Family ticket for four people to Christmas at Wimpole on Friday 26 November 2021. Winner must provide current email address as tickets can only be supplied by email. Time slot will be 4.30pm. This is subject to change but will be confirmed in advance. No alternative dates/time slots are available. Any purchases on-site are at the winner’s own expense. In the unlikely event that Sony Music need to cancel, prize tickets will be transferred to the 2022 Christmas at Wimpole opening night. Prizes are not transferable and may not be used in conjunction with any other offer. Travel costs are not included. There are no cash alternatives.

A magical trail, featuring spectacular illuminations and festive tunes, will light up the garden at the National Trust’s Wimpole Estate this Christmas and we’re offering you the chance to win a family ticket to the opening night on 26 November 2021. It’s the most wonderful time of the year when twinkling lights and seasonal sounds fill the air with festive fun. Wrap up warm and be transported into a winter wonderland where you will discover sparkling tunnels of light, walk under giant baubles and beneath trees drenched in jewel-like colour. Independent street food vendors bring a delicious twist to tasty treats on offer. Have yourself a holly, jolly Christmas and complete your walk under the stars with a *toasted marshmallow, *spiced winter warmer or *hot chocolate shared with someone special. Christmas at Wimpole will be open on selected dates between 26 Nov 2021 – 2 Jan 2022 For information & to book tickets visit: nationaltrust.org.uk/wimpole

Question: The opening night for Christmas at Wimpole is on: • 15 November 2021 • 26 November 2021 • 10 November 2021

OPENING 6 NOVEMBER

Stagsden Christmas Trees Fresh Cut Trees ~ Holly & Mistletoe ~ Decorations & Gift Ideas All set within our converted stables and Victorian walled garden or order and shop with us online

PRE-ORDER YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE ONLINE FOR COLLECTION AND UK DELIVERY www.stagsdenchristmastrees.co.uk info@stagsdenchristmastrees.co.uk ~ 01234 391 924 @stagsdenxmas and find us on Facebook Opening Times Mon to Sat 9.00am to 6.00pm Sunday 10.00am to 4.00pm

Stagsden Christmas Trees West End Farm, Stagsden Beds MK43 8SZ

Christmas TreeFestival “It’s Panto! ”

St Paul’s Church, Bedford MK40 1SQ

Wednesday 1st to

Saturday 4th December

10.00am - 5.00pm

Sunday 5th December

12noon - 4.00pm

Admission: £3

Children under 16 free entry

Daily Concerts by

Community Groups

Sponsored by

More information … 01234 340163

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Bedford Christmas Tree Festival

WHAT’S ON PILATES CLASSES EVERY MONDAY 2.45PM – 3.30PM £3 PER PERSON Join us for relaxing Pilates classes surrounded by the art in the galleries at The Higgins Bedford No need to book as places are offered on a first come, first served basis on the day. The Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford MK40 3XD

LEARNING LUNCHTIMES AT THE FOREST OF MARSTON VALE MONDAYS AT 11AM – 12 NOON

GREAT BARFORD CHRISTMAS FAYRE FRIDAY 12TH NOVEMBER 6PM – 9PM Lots of lovely stalls, Father Christmas, face painting and more. Great Barford Village Hall, Fishers Close, Bedford MK44 3JL

MONDAY 8TH NOVEMBER 11AM A GUIDE TO STEWARTBY VILLAGE AND THE SIR MALCOLM STEWART TRUST Learn about the local history of nearby Stewartby from David Szymanski, and reminisce about it’s industrial past. David has spent his whole life involved with bricks. Raised in the village of Stewartby, the home of London Brick, he trained as a mechanical engineer with LBC.

WOOTTON CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAYRE SATURDAY 13TH NOVEMBER 12PM – 3PM A beautiful range of stalls for you to get your Christmas shopping underway. The kitchen will be open so grab yourself some cake and have a hot chocolate. Wootton Village Hall, 5 Church Road Wootton, Bedford MK43 9EU

MONDAY 15TH NOVEMBER MACADAMIA TREES, FOOD SECURITY, CARBON AND CLIMATE CHANGE IN MALAWI Join our friends and the founders of the Neno Macadamia Trust to hear about this fascinating project which uses trees and communities to regenerate landscapes. MONDAY 29TH NOVEMBER THE MARSTON VALE LINE Stephen Sleight from the Marston Vale Community Rail Partnership explores the importance of the Marston Vale Line to the people of Bedfordshire and beyond... Talks are approx. 1 hour long, with time for questions. Limited space available, please arrive early to avoid disappointment. The Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PR Tel 01234 767037 www.marstonvale.org

BEDFORD ARCHITECTURAL, ARCHAEOLOGICAL & LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY Talks on Bedford’s rich history – open to all WEDNESDAY 10TH NOVEMBER starting at 7.30pm ‘The Festival of Britain in Bedfordshire, 1951’ by Stephen Coleman WEDNESDAY 8TH DECEMBEr starting at 7.30pm Quiz – ‘Bedford since 1939’ 38

WEDNESDAY 12TH JANUARY starting at 7.30pm ‘An illustrated history of Bedford from 1837 to 1914’ by Bob Ricketts Putnoe Heights Methodist Church, Putnoe Heights, Bedford, MK41 8EB

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GRIEF WELLIES DEATH CAFÉ THURSDAY 18TH NOVEMBER 5PM An informal gathering of people (often strangers) to talk about death in an open, accessible and confidential space over a cup of tea and a piece of cake. The topic of discussion is generated by the group and there is no agenda, objective or prescribed theme. The Place, Bragdate Road, Bedford MK40 3DE

BEDS & NORTHANTS MS THERAPY CENTRE MONTHLY CHARITY SALE THIRD SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH 10AM – 12.00 NOON 155 Barkers Lane, Bedford MK41 9RX Clothing, Bric a Brac, Books, Linen, Toys and Games FREE PARKING, Refreshments available Tel: 01234 325781 www.mscentrebedsandnorthants.com

BEDFORDSHIRE DOWN SYNDROME SUPPORT GROUP CHRISTMAS FAYRE SATURDAY 20TH NOVEMBER 1PM – 4PM Come along with family and friends to buy unique gifts and crafts for Christmas. Visit Santa, enjoy festive refreshments and hot soup, bottle tombola and much more! Parkside Community Hall, Woburn Street, Ampthill, MK45 2HX

FARMERS MARKET SATURDAY 20TH NOVEMBER 10AM – 2PM An array of fabulous local food and drink producers bringing their delightfully delicious treats to tempt you with! Come and support these fantastic local suppliers in the grounds of the Historic Watermill in the heart of Bedfordshire. Free Admission and Free Parking onsite. The Olde Watermill, Barton Mill Lane, Barton Le Clay MK45 4RF

FROSTS ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENT THURSDAY 25TH NOVEMBER 2PM TO 8PM Live music, seasonal demonstrations, fantastic present ideas and sparkling inspiration for your home. Frosts Garden Centre, Sandy Road, Willington MK44 3QP

PAMPER AND CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENING FRIDAY 26TH NOVEMBER 7PM – 10.30PM Treat yourself to an evening of pampering, relaxation and shopping! Find some unusual and thoughtful Christmas gifts then reward yourself with a beauty treatment... or three! Therapists offer a variety of treatments from top to toe, and local stallholders will be selling a range of gifts and beauty products as well as handmade crafts. All monies raised on the night is for the Forest of Marston Vale, helping care for your local community woodlands and plant more trees! £5 per person for entry – parking is free for this event. Food and a fully licensed bar will also be available courtesy of the Lakeside Café, for an additional cost on the night. The Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PR Tel 01234 767037 www.marstonvale.org

GRANGE ACADEMY CHRISTMAS FAYRE SATURDAY 27TH NOVEMBER 12 NOON – 2PM Visit from Santa, Stalls, Tombola, Raffle, Games, Refreshments and lots more. Adults 50p Children FREE Grange Academy, Halsey Road, Kempston, Bedford MK42 8AU

TEA PARTY POETRY AT THE HIGGINS SATURDAY 27TH NOVEMBER 2PM – 4PM, FREE ENTRY Join Satwinder to help improve your feelings of wellbeing and give a voice to your thoughts and emotions through poetry writing, alongside tea and treats. No experience needed to join, but these sessions are suitable for ages 16+. To book your place, email vicki.blair@bedford.gov.uk or call 01234 276362 The Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford MK40 3XD

FRIENDLY NETTLE CAFÉ HANDMADE CHRISTMAS MARKET SUNDAY 28TH NOVEMBER 11AM – 2PM Lots of beautiful handmade gifts plus loads of fun activities. There will also be mince pies, ginger biscuits, and non-alcoholic mulled wine. Friendly Nettle Café, 15B Beauvais Square, Shortstown MK42 0GE

PAVENHAM CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAYRE SUNDAY 28TH NOVEMBER 10AM – 3PM Hand-made jewellery, knitted goods, decoupage bottles etc. Tea and coffee available. Pavenham Village Hall, Bedford Road, Pavenham MK43 7PH

BEDFORD CRAFT MARKET AT ST PAUL’S SQUARE SUNDAY 28TH NOVEMBER 10AM – 3PM Amazing smells, personalised gifts, knitwear, plants, baked goods and much more! Free parking in council run car parks on Sundays. St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SQ

BedsLife Magazine cannot be held responsible for any event changes, amends or cancellations. Please ensure to check ahead before attending. To list an event in our December issue please email christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk by Friday 12th November. Priority will be given to non-profit events.

To advertise with us, please contact christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

SHARNBROOK SCOUT GROUP REG CHARITY 273510

47th GRAND

FIREWORKS DISPLAY South Field, Tofte Manor, Sharnbrook

SATURDAY 6TH NOVEMBER 2021 Gates open & BBQ from 6.15pm Display 7.00pm Limited parking in Colworth Rd Please walk if possible

If wet, we may postpone event till Sunday 7th November Check on Saturday for posters in the village or see www.sharnbrookscouts.webs.com

children £2.00 in advance, £3.00 on gate adults £3.00 in advance, £5.00 on gate Advance tickets available at Pick-a-Lily or The Co-op until Friday 5th November only

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Two crafty robbers, one tiny ladybird, and a whole farmyard of fun! In WHAT THE LADYBIRD HEARD, Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len have a cunning plan to steal the farmer’s fine prize cow. However, they reckon without the tiniest, quietest creature of all: the Ladybird has a plan of her own! Join the woolly sheep, the hairy hog, the fat red hen and the dainty dog in this hit musical adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ colourful farmyard adventure. Direct from the West End with live music, puppetry, plenty of audience participation and many laughs! ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes

WIN a family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) for What The Ladybird Heard at Milton Keynes Theatre Wednesday 24 Nov at 13:30

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To be in with a chance to win email your name and phone number to competitions@bedslifemagazine.co.uk and tell us What animal do Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len try to steal? A) Pig, B) Cow, C) Sheep by 17th November.

T’s & C’s: • The tickets are valid on Wednesday 24 Nov at 13:30 only. • Tickets will be sent via email in advance of the performance. • Tickets are non-transferable, non-refundable, non-exchangeable and cannot be re-sold. • No cash alternative will be given.

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ART

EXHIBITION AT THE EAGLE GALLERY BEDFORD: “THE COLOURS OF NATURE” SATURDAY 13TH NOVEMBER – SATURDAY 20TH NOVEMBER “The colours of Nature” is a vibrant and colourful exhibition bringing together three different art mediums of Glass by Sharon Korek, Contemporary painting by Rita Dare and Jewellery by Lesley Pollock in a celebration of nature in all its beautiful forms and colours.

This show is hosted by the Eagle Gallery a unique cooperative artist led gallery. Our frequently changing exhibitions embrace a wide range of artistic styles and practices, showing painting, prints, photography, mixed media, jewellery, textiles, ceramics and more. We also have up to eight solo or group one-week shows during the year. Open Monday-Saturday 10.00am – 5.30pm St Peters St, Bedford MK40 2NN www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk/

NEW DISPLAY OPENS AT THE HIGGINS BEDFORD: WARDEN ABBEY REVEALED SATURDAY 13TH NOVEMBER 13TH – SATURDAY 20TH NOVEMBER Warden Abbey Revealed, a new archaeological display showcasing the grandeur of one of the most influential Cistercian houses in medieval England. Warden Abbey was founded by Walter Espec in 1135, and populated by monks from Rievaulx Abbey in Yorkshire. In its heyday, the abbey was home to over 100 monks. They were supported by about 300 lay brothers, who ran its farms, mills, warrens, woodlands, and urban properties across 7 counties and the City of London. The abbey prospered thanks to the wool trade, and the monks rebuilt their church in the early 14th century. Warden Abbey was dissolved by Henry VIII in 1537, and the buildings were demolished, leaving nothing above ground. This display highlights the research carried out by the Old Warden History & Heritage Society, which, set alongside the results of a geophysical survey by MOLA (Northampton), reveals new and exciting information about Warden Abbey. These have been combined by former English Heritage artist, Peter Dunn, to create a reconstruction painting showing how Warden Abbey may have looked c. 1370, after the east end of the church had been rebuilt. The original painting will be on display alongside a selection of archaeological artefacts recovered from excavation at Warden Abbey, including architectural fragments, floor tiles, stained glass, and more. Warden Abbey Revealed will be on display until October 2022 and is free to visit. If you’d like to find out more or book tickets, www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk/Exhibitions/Warden_Abbey_Revealed.aspx 46

A r o ma C l e a no f f e r a f r i e n d l y , r e l i a b l e &h o n e s t d o me s t i c c l e a n i n g s e r v i c e t a i l o r e dt oy o u r n e e d s P o l i c e C h e c k e d&F u l l y I n s u r e d

T a k i n g c a r e o f a l l y o u r h o me c l e a n i n g . . .

C a l l 0 7 7 9 1 2 5 8 3 4 1 o r 0 7 4 3 5 6 3 3 9 8 6 o r e ma i l D o n n a a r o ma c l e a n @ma i l . c o m To advertise with us, please contact christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

MILKYS MUSIC MATTERS FOCUS ON UPCOMING BEDFORD GIGS BABY STRANGE + The Dunts: Esquires – Sat 6th November

selling out venues across the UK & sharing stages with the likes of Frank Carter & the Rattlesnakes, Slaves & Jamie T. Support from fellow Glaswegians The Dunts who come armed with driving guitars and caustic punk sensibilities at their core, rapidly becoming one of Scotland’s hottest exports demanding attention and gaining momentum with their incomparable ‘council-punk’ branded sound.

ITALIA 90: Esquires – Fri 19th November Glasgow’s Baby Strange take a steadfast, creative, all-encompassing approach to music as an artform and have carved out an almost cult like status for themselves within the underground UK music scene. Baby Strange kicked off the new year with; ‘Club Sabbath’ – the new unflinching sound of the world below! Angst laden vocals spread across a disco beat that nods beautifully to the latter-day sounds of The Clash, whilst drawing upon the unique sound that fans of Baby Strange have come to love. Fronted by the magnetic & alluring Johnny Madden and rounded out by brothers Connaire & Aidan McCann, Baby Strange are already well on their way to re-establish themselves as one of the most innovative and uncompromising outfits in the UK. Since the release of their critically acclaimed 2016 debut album ‘Want It Need It’, Baby Strange have toured tirelessly, building an enthusiastic and dedicated live audience,

The rather excellently monikered Les Miserable (vocals), J Dangerous (drums), Bobby Portrait (bass) and Captain ACAB (guitar) make for an interesting roll call. Having relocated from their native Brighton to South London, the quartet are making a name for themselves as a post-punk band with an edge. This band are certainly not an identi-kit formation (they have been described before as all looking like they come from a different decade) but come together to create an intense swell of noise with political undertones.

SUPPORT THE BEDFORD LIVE SCENE – UPCOMING GIGS FOR YOUR DIARY Esquires Fri 5th Nov Sat 6th Nov Sun 7th Nov Wed 10th Nov Thur 11th Nov Fri 12th Nov Sat 13th Nov Sat 20th Nov Thur 2nd Dec Fri 3rd Dec Sat 4th Dec

Special Kinda Madness Baby Strange + The Dunts The Nightingales + Pete Astor Don Broco Danni Nicholls Mad Dog McCrea Sam Brookes James Taylor Quartet Emily Cappell Life UK Subs

Their early releases evoke the politically charged rhetoric and relentless drive of bands like Sham 69, Cockney Rejects and The Ruts, meanwhile, their latest EP mirrors the transition into the rhythmic angularity of the proceeding post-punk years heralded in by Joy Division, The Fall and Wire. Nevertheless, Italia 90 have not shaken off their true punk ethos, either musically or politically, as their work ponders and rails against the complexities, hypocrisies and frustrations of modern life

JOHN COOPER CLARKE: Corn Exchange – Wed 24th Nov

Bedford Corn Exchange Wed 24th Nov

John Cooper Clarke “I Wanna Be Yours”

+ many more Check listings at bedfordesquires.com for details or facebook.com/bedfordesquires Tickets available from Esquires, Slide Record Shop and online – seetickets.com

Fast forward to a career of over 40 years, guest recently on BBC Radio’s much-loved Desert Island Discs & Channel 4’ Celebrity Countdown. John has toured the globe 10 – count ‘em 10 times! & will be making a very special appearance at The Corn Exchange, Bedford in November. A back catalogue of recordings by legendary producer Martin Hannett. Including seminal tracks; Beasley St and Evidently Chickentown featured on the massive hit album Snap Crackle and Bop, one of 4 big selling original album releases on Sony Records in the late 70s and early 80s. They established John as one of the most prolific artistes of the Punk years. JCC headlined gigs with support from many soon to be superstars including Joy Division, New Order and Duran Duran. He himself featured as special guest on many shows by the Sex Pistols, Buzzcocks and The Clash. John will be on stage giving you stories of his prolific career to date that have influenced some of the biggest names in the industry – an evening not to miss!

COMING UP, COMING UP Bands who will go onto bigger things (don’t miss your chance to see them before they play much bigger venues) – Baby Strange, Life, Sam Brookes Big names – Nightingales Return to Bedford – Do Broco Ska – Special Kinda Madness Punk legends – UK Subs, John Cooper Clark

MUSIC

THE DOWN FOR THE COUNT SWING ORCHESTRA SATURDAY 6TH NOVEMBER 7:30pm Down for the Count are a mini big band with an electrifying show full of incredible energy and musicianship. The band recreate classic tunes from the Swing Era, but this is no mere nostalgia trip – the band perform each song in their own unmistakeable style, breathing new life into the best vintage music. Combine that with the band’s top class instrumental solos, sublime vocal performances, and irresistible humour and joie de vivre, and you get a show that will leave you feeling uplifted and wanting more. Quarry Theatre at St Luke’s, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford MK40 2NN Tel 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk/

PHILHARMONIA ORCHESTRA: ALINA IBRAGIMOVA PERFORMS BEETHOVEN WEDNESDAY 10TH NOVEMBER 7:30pm Opening their 21/22 season in spectacular fashion, Beethoven’s Violin Concerto is a joyous celebration of the instrument. The solo violin enters quietly, spinning a celestial melody high above the orchestra, growing ever more virtuosic as the music progresses. In the delicate second movement Beethoven showcases the violin’s unmatched emotional quality balanced against a subtle, lonely accompaniment – while the third movement springs to live with drama and fire. And who better to bring Beethoven’s showpiece work to life than the versatile violinist Alina Ibragimova. Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SL Tel 01234 718044 www.cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk

ALL THAT JAZZ: MARK HALE PRESENTS… THURSDAY 11TH NOVEMBER 8:00pm The Place continues the ‘All That Jazz’ concert series which brings musicians from across the U.K for an evening of music curated by drummer Mark Hale. The Place, Bradgate Road, Bedford MK40 3DE Tel 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org.uk 50

BEDFORD MUSIC CLUB: MUSIC ON THURSDAYS THURSDAY 11TH NOVEMBER 7:45pm A recital for French horn by a sensational new talent, Ben Goldscheider and his partner on the piano, Huw Watkins. Huw is widely regarded as one of Britain’s finest composer-performers. St Paul’s Church, St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SQ Tel 01234 405974 www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk

BEDFORD CHORAL SOCIETY: ROSSINI PETITE MESSE SOLENNELLE SATURDAY 20TH NOVEMBER 7:30pm Rossini’s Petite Messe Solennelle is neither little nor particularly solemn. The work is a very substantial setting of the Mass in fourteen parts; Rossini used the term “petite” as a modest evaluation of its importance. It is scored for four soloists and at least eight voices (“men, women and castrati”) as a chorus with two pianos and a harmonium. A setting of the Mass which used women’s voices was not eligible for performances in Catholic churches and so the use of the instruments was a very practical solution for salon performance. The percussive nature of the piano contrasts with the sustained support of the harmonium to give a flexible accompaniment. Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SL Tel 01234 718044 www.cornexchange@bedford.gov.uk

We are the voice for Parent Carers of children & young people 025yrs with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities in Bedford Borough. We feed back your views to Education, Health, Social Care and other departments that provide SEND services.

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improving services for our children & young people, we’ve all had different experiences so we need to hear your views.

We hold regular Coffee Mornings, events and training

sessions for parents to come along, give their views, meet other parents and to empower your to advocate for your child. If you would like to find out more or become a member please contact us or complete our online membership form by scanning this QR code or using this link : www.bbpcf.co.uk/contact

communications@bbpcf.org.uk

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Autumn Term Events

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SPORT & FITNESS

LIVE LONGER BETTER – BEDFORD Live Longer Better – Bedford is continuing at the John Bunyan Centre in Bedford every Tuesday up to and including Tuesday 14th December. Activities are aimed at over 60’s and include Walking Football, Walking Cricket, Chair Yoga, Table Tennis and more. The cost

is £3 for just one activity or £5 for the whole morning. Just turn up, get fit, stay active and make new friends!

CARLTON SQUASH CLUB Carlton Squash Club is a friendly club located in the village of Carlton in North Bedfordshire. They have a small and diverse membership – young and old, men and women, social players and hardcore competitors. New members are very welcome – no prior experience is required!

BEDFORD TOUCH RUGBY CLUB If you fancy playing a mixed team sport Bedford Touch rugby club are actively recruiting for new ladies to join them in Bedford.

The club has two teams participating in the Northants squash leagues. They also run their own club squash leagues and have open sessions every Sunday, making it very easy for members to meet other players and enjoy matches against opponents of a similar standard. And to appeal to all ages, they also run weekly junior coaching sessions that are proving increasingly popular. It’s not just about squash though. Several members play racketball, a really enjoyable sport that can be a little more forgiving on the knees. They have rackets that members can borrow and run a weekly open session on Wednesdays for racketball. For more information visit carltonsquashclub@gmail.com 54

For more information please contact Alison. brightman@bedford.gov.uk

Touch is a minimal contact game, which gives you the opportunity to maintain fitness. Based on the game of rugby it improves handling and running skills, without the tackles and rucks. Touch is a simple game enjoyed by men and women from a range of sports and by those looking to get active again. Weekly training and monthly tournaments are held over the winter months, playing at Bedford Athletics Rugby Club on their fantastic artificial pitch every Wednesday at 8 pm. For more information contact Adrian at bedfordtouchclub@gmail.com

Could you open your home to someone who needs support and become part of our shared lives scheme?

Shared Lives is a scheme run by Bedford Borough Council where people open their lives and homes up to support people from the age of 16 with learning disabilities. As a member of the scheme you will be paid to provide support from your own home or the wider community. Joe, transferred into the Shared Lives scheme from foster care to help him gain independence, while still being part of a family. Joe is supported in cooking meals, household chores, money management and independently travelling as well as exploring social activities. Chris and Maureen have been Shared Lives carers for the past 6 years, supporting Joe for nearly two years. Chris said, “My wife, Maureen, came up with the idea of Shared Lives about fifteen years ago. I hadn’t considered the idea of shared lives as I wasn’t really the caring type and I didn’t know what to expect’ “It’s been a rewarding experience supporting Joe. His confidence has improved, and he now does his own laundry, and cooks independently. He came into his own when he used a recipe to make a lemon drizzle cake. Joe’s cake is truly superb and he’s justifiably proud of his signature dish.” Are you patient, have empathy, a sense of humour and the ability to meet the challenges presented by everyday life? Then you could be a Shared Lives carer. Shared Lives carers can be individuals, couples or families. Each placement is tailored to the needs and requirements of the individual person, from hourly support to long-term places to live. Cllr Wendy Rider, Portfolio Holder for Adult Services said, “We are extremely thankful to all our shared lives carers and proud of the life changing work they do. They are truly inspirational.” If you are interested and would like more information call 01234 228426 07468472404, email sharedlives@bedford.gov.uk or visit www.bedford.gov.uk/sharedlives

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Why choose Acorn House ? Acorn House is the only Veterinary Hospital in Bedford To be awarded hospital status, a veterinary practice must:

• Pass regular rigorous inspections by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons • Ensure that nursing staff are on site 24 hours a day • Ensure that veterinary surgeons are available 24 hours a day • Provide specialist equipment for diagnosis and treatment • Employ veterinary surgeons with advanced qualifications and experience

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Reducing stress when your dog visits the vet

Lots of dogs look forward to visiting the vet – any attention is good attention and there are often lots of tasty treats on offer! But some dogs find the experience very stressful. What can we do to help?

Prevention is better than cure It is important to do everything we can to make the first few vet visits a positive experience for our dogs. Consider taking your new dog into the surgery without an appointment, just to be weighed, give him some tasty treats and then leave again. This will help your dog to associate the vets with a place where good things happen. Unless there is a medical reason not to, your vet will also offer your dog treats during routine visits.

Choose a quiet time if your dog is nervous

Consider the location Nervous dogs may feel more comfortable being examined in the garden of the practice, than in the consulting room. Book an appointment during daylight hours and let the receptionist know if you would like to try this.

Consider anti-anxiety medication For pets that already have a fear of vet visits, it can often be a great solution to give anti-anxiety medication an hour or so before a vet visit. This medication is an anxiolytic but not a sedative - it should help your dog feel calm and relaxed during the journey and examination at the vets. This is not only good for your dog on that occasion, but will also help to teach your dog that he/she can go to the vets and not have a scary time. This should prevent nervous behaviours from getting worse with every vet visit, and should lead to an increase in confidence over time. Anxiolytic medications need to be prescribed, so speak to your vet about this.

Ask for an appointment at a quieter time of day, if your dog is nervous at the vets. Booking the last appointment in a consulting block will also mean that the vet can go slowly and take more time building your dog’s confidence.

Bedford Town Football October has been a great month to be an Eagles fan with the team flying high with six wins on the bounce, most of the wins with convincing score lines and clean sheets. Having players back from injury and suspension has made a big difference, but now one of those players, Dan Walker has decided to depart the club. After three years in his second spell at the Eyrie the former Luton Town striker has moved up a division to Biggleswade Town. Rene Howe is the current in form player for Bedford, getting ten goals out of his first ten games as The Eagles have climbed back into the playoff positions hot on the trail of league leaders Berkhamsted who they face in November. October has been a month for future Eagles. Ninety of The Eagles Youth Development players visited The Eyrie to see the victory over Kidlington and earlier in the month pupils and staff from Marston Vale Middle School were the special guests. During their trip to an Eagles home match, the pupils led the team out before

Club

kick-off as a reward for their recent, remarkable sports leadership. Earlier in the month Bedford striker Connor Tomlinson had visited the school to present awards. Community outreach is a new programme, which sees the Eagles joining forces with local organisations, raising awareness for important aspects of the community, and giving back to the borough. Forthcoming fixtures Stafford Rangers – Home – FA Trophy 30 October 2 November Peterborough Sports – Home – Southern League Cup 6 November Welwyn Garden City – Home – League Barton Rovers – Home – League 9 November 14 November Aylesbury United – Away – League 16 November Harlow Town – Away – League 20 November Waltham Abbey – Home – League 23 November Berkhamsted – Away – League 27 November Didcot Town – Away League Fixtures subject to change, latest information and tickets from www.bedfordeagles.net

Bedford Town striker Connor Tomlinson presenting prizes to pupils of Marston Vale Middle School

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Bedford Blues Bedford Blues Women enjoyed a victorious start to their NC3 Midlands (Central) Division campaign with a resounding 31-0 victory over Shelford Ladies Nomads on a historic afternoon at Goldington Road.

After peeling from the maul, scrum-half Abi Wilkins set off a passage of passes across the field which saw Graham write her name into the history books with the first ever competitive points scored by Bedford Blues Women.

Tied 0-0 at the break, Blues Women were uncontainable in the second half as they scored five superb team tries to mark their first ever league fixture in the perfect fashion.

Blues were doing all the running as they penned Shelford inside their 22m, and it was just after the hour that Bedford got their second. It was pretty much a carbon copy of the first, only this time Walsh went over as the lead stretched to 12-0.

Emma Graham and Ellen Walsh both scored twice, while Heidi Lawson also went over among joyous scenes at the home of Bedford’s premier sporting club, cheered on by around an estimated 400 members of the #BluesFamily. There wasn’t too much to separate the sides at the break as Shelford didn’t let their numerical disadvantage – they started with 14 players – get them down as both sides showed great intent in and around the opposition 22s, although stern defence prevented anything troubling the scoreboard. Uncontested scrums ensured a level playing field in their set-piece department, while Blues were immense at the line-out to steal multiple ball and thwart Shelford when they were in some exciting areas of the field. It took just three minutes after the restart to get the first try as Blues again used the line-out to good effect. 66

Lucy Middleton – who kicked two of her three conversion attempts – nailed this first one for 7-0.

Just 60 seconds later, it was 19-0. Walsh grabbed her second with a stunning 60m drive to the line after intercepting a wide pass and putting the afterburners on to leave every Shelford player behind and dot down under the posts. Blues stormed further ahead in the final five minutes. Again, it was intuitive play in defence before spotting when to intercept and it left Lawson with the simplest of tasks to run unopposed to the line. This time Graham took the kicking responsibilities and made it 26-0. Graham then rounded the scoring off with the last play in the game thanks to an evasive run past three defenders as Bedford Blues Women did the club and themselves proud in securing victory. Well done to both teams who each made their own pieces of history on the day – Blues go to Wellingborough in their next fixture, on 14th November.

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COP26 – WHAT CAN WE DO? With COP26 – the United Nations Conference on Climate Change – taking place in Glasgow later this month (October 31 – November 12) you’ll be hearing a lot of talk on the news and in the media about how countries plan to tackle climate change. Climate change is the greatest risk facing us all. The world is currently not on track to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees and – if we continue as we are – temperatures will carry on rising, bringing even more catastrophic flooding, bush fires, extreme weather and destruction of species.

In addition to efforts to transition to clean power and reduce ongoing emissions now is the perfect time to shine a spotlight on one of our key missions and how this can help achieve our climate goals: tree-planting! Trees have never been a more important ally in helping us to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change. As they grow, they absorb carbon dioxide (CO2), one of the major greenhouse gases that contributes to climate change. Trees absorb CO2 through their leaves and convert it into energy through a process called photosynthesis. This energy is then used and stored for a long time within the branches, wood and roots of the tree and surrounding soils. Collectively, the UK’s woodlands remove around 18 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent from the atmosphere each year, and around one billion tonnes are locked up in our forests. As well as driving down emissions at source, planting new trees can play an important role in supporting the UK’s efforts to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Other natural habitats, such as peatlands, wetlands and grasslands, are also very effective at capturing and storing carbon – so it is really important that we plant trees in the right places, so as not to disturb ecosystems that are already doing a good job in fighting climate change. As well as planting in the right place, planting the right tree is also vital too. The most effective trees for carbon capture are not always the best trees to plant to benefit our native wildlife, and this must be taken into consideration: since the 1970s, 41 per cent of all UK species have

declined, while 15 per cent of species are said to be threatened with extinction.1 A mixture of native broadleaf trees provide tackles the parallel threat of biodiversity loss by providing much-needed places for wildlife to live, feed and breed in. At the Forest of Marston Vale we’ve planted over 2 million trees in Bedfordshire already, removing 4,917 tonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere – that’s the same as the emissions from 2,000 family cars! As well as fighting climate change and supporting biodiversity, tree-planting has a multitude of other benefits for society. Trees and woodlands also help us to be more resilient to the impacts of climate change – some of which we’re already experiencing now. During heavy rainfall, the presence of trees can help to slow the flow of water entering our rivers, protecting communities downstream from flooding. Trees also provide shade, and have an urban cooling effect – helping to reduce the temperature in cities. Trees also help to prevent erosion from drying arable fields, remove pollution from the air and they improve our own mental health. Whilst government leaders will spend the COP26 debating the various strategies needed to slash global emissions, for individuals the threat of climate change (and what we can do about it) can often feel overwhelming. Supporting tree planting, getting involved with planting efforts and even planting your own tree at home is one positive action you can take to do your bit in tackling climate change. 1: The State of Nature report, 2019

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Protect and Survive No…not the 1970s public information campaign exhorting us to hide under a table in case of nuclear attack. This is far more useful. It’s my public information campaign about protecting tender perennials and taking cuttings to over winter so your plants survive and even multiply. First the protection: to protect tender perennials such as Salvias and Pelargoniums, lift them and bring them into a greenhouse. If you have a heater, set it to the frost setting (around 5C). You can use bubble wrap to insulate the greenhouse for additional heat conservation. If you do this the heater will only need to kick in on extremely cold days and nights. For tender bulbs and tubers such as dahlias, wait until the foliage has been blackened by the frost, then lift them and place in a box of sand in a dry, dark, frostfree location. Plants like Agapanthus, which are generally happy to be left in the ground with a little protection, are best left undisturbed. Cover the top with a generous quantity of well-rotted compost or bark mulch. This can be removed from around the crown of the plant in spring and will help retain moisture throughout the spring growing season. November is the start of the bare root planting season. Plant roses, hedging and trees, and it’s also

a good time to move any of these plants which you think are in the wrong area of the garden. They are more likely to survive this treatment if moved at this time of year.

SO, WHAT ELSE CAN WE DO IN NOVEMBER? Ideally your spring bulbs should already be planted but if you haven’t done it yet, just put some in this month. November is actually the perfect month to plant tulip bulbs are because the less time they are in the ground the less likelihood of them developing a virus called tulip fire blight. • Plant garlic cloves if you have an area with free draining soil. • Dig over the vegetable plot, leaving clods to break down over winter • Rake the fallen leaves regularly from lawn areas because if you leave them they deprive the lawn of light. • Bring in garden tools for the winter. Clean, sharpen, and oil them first. • Keep removing weeds. It is easier to see them once garden plants have died back. November is a great time to get rid of persistent perennial weeds

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The Isle of Arran (Part One)

WILDLIFE IN THE BRITISH ISLES – GREG COYNE, WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER

I have just returned from a quick four-day trip to Arran to photograph the elusive otter, but mainly to catch up with the red deer rut on this beautiful island. The Isle of Arran is just a 45-minute ferry crossing from Ardrossan on the west coast of Scotland. Arran is often called “Scotland in miniature” as it has the same highland and lowland areas found on the mainland. It measures just 432 sq km and it takes no time at all to drive all around the island – which is what I do when looking for otters and sea birds. I always arrange an early morning ferry to Arran as it allows time to take a slow drive along the coastline, heading towards our hotel, while wildlife-spotting along the way. Arran is one of those places where you never know what you might see as you come round a bend – deer, seals, otters, buzzards, red squirrels, and numerous seabirds. It’s no good trying to do this in the peak summer season as the roads are full of tourists and our slow crawl along the

shoreline roads would be very frustrating for other vehicles. But in October, outside of the school holidays, it is ideal. The area we head to for the deer rut is Lochranza, situated on the coast in a beautiful area, with a population of just under 200 people. There is a good herd of red deer on the island and Lochranza, which is covered in bracken and sits at the base of tall hills, is ideal red deer habitat. In the middle of Lochranza is a public pitch and putt golf course and there is always at least one stag and his harem of hinds taking up residence on the course. In the early evening the hills echo with the bellowing of stags who don’t have their own hinds. These stags come down onto the golf course to challenge the resident stag which is very exciting to witness. The large stags fighting is an incredible spectacle, not just to see but also to hear. It was a lot warmer than usual for the time of year and the rut hadn’t yet got into full swing – stags prefer cold, frosty mornings and nights to really

bring on the rutting season. Thankfully there weren’t too many people on the golf course either as, with all that testosterone in the stags, it is usually best to keep your distance from the deer. Certainly don’t venture between a stag and his hinds as the likelihood is that you will be charged and chased. While we were there the resident stag chased a couple of people and trashed some tents on a nearby campsite. Our morning routine was to drive around the coastline looking for otters and seabirds before arriving at Lochranza, checking out the red deer, and then continuing around the coastline looking for otters and seabirds again. We would then head back to the red deer in the early evening to see what rutting action there may be. There are not very many otters on the Isle of Arran and they are much more elusive than those on the Isle of Mull. This makes photographing the Arran otters very satisfying, as you can drive around the island for days and not manage to see any. They don’t stay visible on land for long; often coming ashore with a fish and then, as if they know they are being watched, going behind a large rock to eat it so you can’t see them. The first morning on the island I was very lucky though. My bedroom faced the sea which was just the other side of the road. On returning to the room after breakfast I walked over to the window, and something caught my eye. Did I just see an otter tail disappearing below the surface about 30 yards offshore? Sure enough, about 15 seconds later, an otter surfaced and continued to fish. I quickly opened the window and grabbed my camera, resting it on the windowsill. Seconds later the otter and a cub climbed out onto the rock for a quick preen. They were only there for a couple of minutes but what an amazing experience. We drove around the island the rest of the day and didn’t see any more otters but that’s wildlife photography for you. In my next article, I will show some of the other wildlife that I saw on Arran during this trip. If you would like to see more of my images, please visit my Facebook Page Greg Coyne Photography. 75

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Farm Shops

Chiropodists and Podiatrists Saxon Footcare

Electrician M Halls Electrical

Builders & Bricklayers

78 78

Domestic Appliance Repairs JB Domestic Ltd

Bathrooms QP Interiors

Dance Lessons

Kitchen Doors Dream Doors

Retirement Home 7

Laundry & Ironing Services Bubbles Laundrette

Roofing/Roofing Merchants 47

Locksmith A Rocket

Elderswell 55

Nu-look Conservatory Roofing Start 1967 Roofing

Skip Hire Paul Riches

Loft Ladders Access for Lofts Home Counties Loft Ladders

65 13

Medal Framing & Mounting R&M Duchemins

Soft Furnishings Cool & Classic

Milton Keynes Theatre Sharnbrook Mill Theatre

57 58

Photography Jo-Marie Photography

Vets Acorn House Veterinary Hospital

Will Writing 9

Plasterer C Johnson CM Plastering

44 43

Used Car Buyers Paul Jones Cars

Painting & Decorating Bromham Painting & Decorating Craig Johnson

Upholstery M & S Upholstery

Optometrist John Kaye

Theatres

Mobile Hairdresser Deborah Hair

11 67

The Will Writing Company

Windows, Doors & Conservatories 58 67

Bromham Windows Cloudy 2 Clear Kempston Windows

57 84 59

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

70 67 57 79

Property Agents Artistry Property

Property Maintenance HomeFix 7 Mr Fix Property Maintenance 65

Pubs & Restaruants The Sun Felmersham

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

ARCHITECTS

FURNISHINGS

CLASSIFIEDS

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

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 DANCE LESSONS

GARAGE DOORS

ALMOND GARAGE DOORS LTD  Bedford & Milton Keynes  New Sales & Installations  Existing Doors Automated  Spare Parts

Ballroom, Latin, Sequence, Freestyle, Fitsteps Classes for adults & children in Bedford www.countydance.webs.com 01767222038 or 07908819244

01234 828953

info@almondgd.co.uk

Unit 1a, College Farm, Oakley, MK43 7RX

GARDENING SERVICES

Footsteps School of Dancing Ballroom & Latin Dance Classes Classes start 3rd January 2022

Tuesday Evening:- Edward Peake Middle School Biggleswade Wednesday Evening:- St Georges Hall Letchworth Thursday Morning:- St Paul’s Church Letchworth

Line Dance Classes

Friday Morning:- St Paul’s Church Hall Letchworth Sequence Dancing Friday Evening:- Arlesey WI Hall We offer beginner, extra step and private lessons Classes are running now if you can’t wait to get started To secure your place visit www.footstepsschoolofdancing.co.uk or call Nigel or Deborah on 01462-673895

WWW.footstepsschoolofdancing.co.uk Nigel@footstepsschoolofdancing.co.uk Telephone 01462-673895 or 07713577413

MOBILE HAIRDRESSER

DEBORAH

MOBILE HAIRDRESSER BEDFORD Perms, Cuts, Colours - highlights etc Special Occasions and Wedding Hair

01234 210337 07976 394798

Deborah mobile hairdresser yell (Bedford) TUITION

WHITES ES LTD

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

Learn French at home

New members are welcome to join French daytime and evening classes on Zoom. Individual lessons are also available. Please see the website or call for details.

Thea Hughes BA (Hons) MA Also Available Indespenison & Brian James Trailers

www.frenchinbeds.org 07941 869424

and more.

HEATING ENGINEER

USED CAR DISPOSAL

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 MEDALS

VEHICLE HIRE

R&M DUCHEMINS

• Medal framing and medal mounting. • Full size and miniature • Regimental gifts, British replica replacement Army, RAF, medals. Royal Navy & Merchant. Tel: 01234 268738 Mobile: 07877 242408 www.duchemins.co.uk

• Self Drive Hire • Contract Rental • Financial Lease • Large Fleet of Standard • Refrigerated • Specialised Vehicles

rentxpressltd.co.uk 01234 339008 79

Useful

Resources 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 Tel 07376 262 873 www.accessbedford.org.uk

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

BEDFORDSHIRE WELLBEING SERVICE Offers a range of free and confidential talking therapies and specialist support to help you feel better. Tel 01234 880400 www.bedfordshirewellbeingservice.nhs.uk

BEDFORD WOMEN’S CENTRE

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

Supporting women in the community who may have experienced Domestic Abuse or want more information about healthy relationships.

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

Tel 01234 316801 www.bedfordwomenscentre.org.uk

AGE UK BEDFORDSHIRE

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

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

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

CHUMS Mental health and emotional wellbeing service for children and young people 01525 863924 www.chumscharity.org

CITIZENS ADVICE

MINDBLMK

An independent charitable organisation that helps people resolve their problems by providing information and advice.

Supporting positive mental health and wellbeing.

Tel 01234 867944 www.bedfordcab.org.uk 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) local independent charity offering practical and emotional support to families under stress. 01234 270601 www.facesbedford.org

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

OPEN DOOR Charity providing FREE and confidential counselling to young people aged 13 – 25. Tel 01234 360388 www.bedfordopendoor.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

OCTOBER PRIZE CROSSWORD

Answers

OCTOBER PRIZE CROSSWORD

Answers

James Mellor Creative

Bespoke Cartoons & Corporate Copywriting for publications, websites, social media, presentations and conferences www.jamesmellorcreative.com @jamesdfmellor 82

Please mention bedslife when responding to adverts

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 November 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 November 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 November 2021

Articles inside

Bedford Town FC

Acorn House Pet Advice

Bedford Blues

Shared Lives

Sport & Fitness

Hospital Radio Bedford Schedule

What’s On

Music

Volunteer Opportunities

Prize Crossword

Bedford Christmas Tree Festival

Art

Milky’s Music Matters

Plumb and Walnut Crumble

In the Stix

Lyd Eats Food – Burrow at the Blues The Composing Cook –

About Town

Prostate Cancer

Richard Fuller MP

Mohammad Yasin MP

Council News

Book Reviews