BedsLife Magazine September 2022 by BedsLife Magazine

37,000 copies Delivered to selected areas of Bedford and North Beds Villages www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk FREE 2022 SEPTEMBER inside Sue Ryder Starlight Hike Heritage Open Days What’s On Clubs & Groups Prize Crossword

• Loft Ladders • Hatches • Boarding • Insulation • Lights • Fully Guaranteed : ladder, light plus 50 sqft boarding, fully from £444 Need more INSTALL A LOFT LADDER AND USE YOUR LOFT! Following COVID-19 GuidelinesSecure These days homeownersmostsuffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept but where to store it all? That’s where Home Counties Loft Ladders come in. The justin50sqftwiththeiropportunityhomeownersbasedcompany,locally,offersthetomaximisestoragespacealoftladder,ofboardingandlessthanadayfrom £444! But it’s not just the affordability of the package that makes Home Counties Loft Ladders stand out, as manager Jamie Oakley explains: ‘Our watchwords are Quality, Integrity and Value. Quality in the materials that we use for all our installations and the fact that all our loft packages tradesmen, so our customers are assured of the best job. Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we say and make sure the house is spotless when we leave, and value in that we offer our services at a price people can Ourafford.business relies on referrals and we get a huge amount of our calls from people who have been referred to us by our existing customers - that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding Atprinciples.theend of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for every installation we carry out!’ So, if you want to make use of your loft space, call Jamie free on 0808 301 9559 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft! Home Counties Loft Ladders, Quality You Can Trust! CALL FREE: 0808 301 9559 storage space? STARTER PACKAGE Aluminium loft

Don’t forget to check out our website WWW.BEDSLIFEMAGAZINE.CO.UK for even more local articles and lots of interesting and helpful local information! LIKE our Facebook page BedsLife Magazine to keep up to date with events, o ers and local businesses and services. FOLLOW us @bedslife_magazineon and @bedsLife Contents ADVERTISING Christa: Tel 01234 962929 | 07827 015170 E: christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk DESIGN AND ARTWORK www.dougdawson.co.uk DISCLAIMER All adverts and editorial are printed in good faith, however, BedsLife Ltd can not take any responsibility for the content of the adverts, the services provided by the advertisers or any statements given in the editorial. No part of the publication may be reproduced or stored without the express permission of the publisher. Council News 4 About Town with Love Bedford 6 & 7 Richard Fuller MP 8 Mohammad Yasin MP 10 In the Stix 12 Volunteer Opportunities 14 Martin Lewis 16 Books 18 Prize Crossword 20 Sue Ryder Starlight Hike 22 LydEats Food – Fratelli Cicchetti 24 Heritage Open Days 26 Clubs & Groups 30 What’s On 32 Milky’s Music Matters 38 LPH Concerts 40 Bedford Town FC 44 Bedford Rugby Club 45 Acorn House Pets Column 48 Forest of Marston Vale –A Guide to Raptors 52 Gardening 56 Advertiser Index 58 Last Months Crossword Answers 62 Pavenham Milton Ernest FelmershamHarrold Odell Stevington OakleyBromham BletsoeClaphamCarlton Chellington& BiddenhamGreatDenham KempstonRural Kempston Wootton Bedford Willington DO YOU WANT TO LOCALLY?YOURPROMOTEBUSINESS For more information call Christa on Tel 07827 015170 or christa@bedslifemagazine.co.ukemail DELIVERED IN TOTAL TO 37,000 HOMES, OUR READERS ARE YOUR POTENTIAL CUSTOMERS! 37,000copies Delivered to selected areas ofBedford and North BedsVillages www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk FREE 2022 SEPTEMBER inside SueRyderStarlightHike HeritageOpenDays What’s On Clubs&Groups Prize Crossword OCTOBER ISSUE DEADLINE WEDNESDAY 7TH SEPTEMBER

Elstow

If you notice a build-up of blue-green algae blooms on the surface of the water, you should report it to the Environment Agency’s incidents hotline by calling 0800 80 70 60.

The Council has reported their concerns to Public Health England and the Environment Agency (EA), in line with the EA’s written procedure, who will look at opportunities to resolve the issue. Local organisations that use the areas a ected have also been notiﬁed.

over 900 tonnes of carbon emissions council news 4

Bedford Borough Council’s brand-new solar farm has been fully energised and is now exporting low-carbon electricity to the grid. The project is made up of over 8,000 solar panels, is capable of generating up to 4.2MW of electricity and is enough to power approximately 1,000 homes.

Bedford Borough Council has issued a warning to residents and visitors over growing concerns about blue-green algae blooms that are appearing on areas of the lakes at Priory Country Park and some of the Borough’s Blue-greenwatercourses.algae naturally occur on inland waters such as rivers and lakes, estuaries and in the sea. It plays an important role in freshwater and marine biodiversity but excessive amounts can result in the forming of blooms. The forming of blue-green algae blooms produces toxins, which can kill wild animals, farm livestock and domestic pets, alongside the potential to cause skin rashes and illness if swallowed by humans. Blooms can also have a negative e ect on the appearance, quality and use of the water, as well as producing an unpleasant odour.

Bedford Borough Council issues warning over Blue-Green Algae Blooms Solar Farm goes live and begins saving

Scott Lutton, Operations Director of Vital Energi explained, “Former open caste landﬁll sites can be problematic, but Bedford Borough Council have created an innovative solution which will transform the areas into a 21st-century solar farm. This approach will now generate huge carbon savings which will make a strong contribution to Bedford Borough on its net zero journey. The topography of the land is quite uneven, which made this a challenging project to install, but we’re delighted with the technical solution and it’s a great, new addition to Bedford’s low-carbon energy infrastructure.”

Bedford Borough Council have set ambitious targets of becoming net-zero by 2030 and the solar array will play an important role in meeting these targets.

More info and booking: bedfordtourguides.org

Don’t Get Locked In wins Trip Advisor’s Best of the Best Award

Why not enjoy a relaxed and entertaining journey back through the ages, and find out more about the characters and buildings that are the fabric of Bedford’s thousand year history? The Bedford Association of Tour Guides run walking tours every Wednesday and Sunday morning, departing from outside the Old Town Hall in St Paul’s Square. Each walk is designed to last approximately 90 minutes at an easy pace, and should be suitable for those with limited or restricted mobility.

More info and booking: www.dontgetlockedin.com

Not only did this Allhallows based escape room experience receive the Travellers’ Choice Award for 2022, they have also been awarded TripAdvisor’s highest honour, The Best of the Best Award! This means they are among the top 1% of listings on the site, rated and reviewed by real Cathyvisitors.Wright, Director commented, “We feel honoured, and this is due to the consistent hard work that we put into the design of our escape rooms, our customer service, the products available onsite, and our wonderful staff, giving our customers a fantastic experience.”

Themes vary by date; you might enjoy The Life And Times Of John Bunyan, The Rise And Fall Of Bedford Castle or Bedford In World War II. Prices are £3 per adult and £1.50 per child – it’s a treat for all the Prebookingfamily!isessential.

The first of Bedford Borough’s High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) building works –the restoration of 19-21 High Street, currently home to Indian/Napalese restaurant Blue Monk – has been unveiled. Repairs include a newly painted front and comprehensive works to reinstate the fine Classical-style architectural design and detailing of this mid-C19th historic building. One of the most striking improvements is the stunning restoration of the original lion-head stringcourse, which runs along the façade of the building. A number of these lion-heads were beyond repair, requiring replacements to be cast and installed alongside the originals to restore this iconic decorative feature.

Step Back into Bedford’s History – New Walking Tours for 2022

More info: heritage-action-zone/bedford/projects-infrastructure/high-street-bedford.gov.uk/business/invest-in-

Fully Restored ‘Blue Monk’ Revealed

ANewsbout To w n

For those in need of a quick rest and a delightful musical interlude, the Town Bridge offered a full, two-day programme of traditional, live music. The audience enjoyed their deck chairs and two-way river view, as Bands on the Bridge thrilled the ears.

Town to Celebrate

Martin Keys, Owner of Gallone’s Ice Cream Parlour, The Arcade

“The One Hundred Motor Display had such a great atmosphere, and brought new people into the shopping area on Silver Street. We loved welcoming customers as they dropped in during their festival day!”

Brass bands came from Milton Keynes, Luton, Bedford and Hitchin. With added flavour from MD Sax’s Cool Band, Bedford Pipe as well as Lickerish All Sorts Clarinet.

Music and Motors – Fantastic weekend of River Festival Fun on Bedford High Street

all those who visited us over the River Festival weekend, we had such a great time chatting with you all about your experience. If you were lucky enough to grab a Love Bedford Goodie Bag, don’t forget to spend your £5 Voucher next time you visit the Town Centre!

For the first time ever, Bedford High Street became part of the River Festival, hosting The One Hundred Motoring Display, co-ordinated by Bedford Festival of Motoring and sponsored by OverBedfordBID.100classic and contemporary cars were exhibited along the High Street, in St Paul’s Square, and in Riverside’s Merchants Square. Up by the Silver Faces, BedfordBID played host to a very rare 1904 Ford Model C, a dazzling McClaren 720s supercar, and a real-life DeLorean with glowing flux capacitor! It was a treat for both young and old enthusiasts, with police ‘squaddy’ cars, a fleet of Minis and some impressive armoured vehicles, to name just a few!

“Many customers commented to me that it was such a fantastic thing to see and be a part of.

Amanda Oliver – Manager at The Body Shop, Silver ThankStreetyouto

Once again, we have cemented Bedford Town Centre in the minds of many ‘out-of towners’!”

About Town content is supplied by BedfordBID. For the latest updates on Bedford Town Centre activities and events, as well as a full Business Directory, please visit: www.lovebedford.co.uk

The publication of the strategy is the latest action taken by the government to address the issues and disparities faced by many women.

WORDS

This includes appointing the first ever Women’s Health Ambassador for England earlier this year, the creation of a network of family hubs in 75 upper-tier local authorities across England, including Bedford Borough Council, and providing protections to the millions of people who experience domestic abuse through the Domestic Abuse Act 2021. We have also established a Maternity Disparities Taskforce and UK Menopause Taskforce and have already taken action to increase access to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and reduce costs of this medication. It is not right that half of our population are disadvantaged in accessing the care they need, simply because of their sex. The publication of this strategy is a landmark moment in addressing entrenched inequalities and improving the health and wellbeing of women across the country.

TBy closing the gender health gap and supporting women to live well, it will not only benefit the health and wellbeing of women, but the health of the Theeconomy.strategy,which followed a call for evidence that generated almost 100,000 responses, sets bold ambitions to tackle deep-rooted, systemic issues within the health and care system and reset how it listens to women.

Eradicating the gender health gap can’t be done through health services alone and I encourage everyone who has the power to positively impact women’s health – from employers to doctors and teachers to industry – to join us in the journey. To read the strategy, please visit https://t.co/5PewStaIu4

Richard Fuller, MP for North East Bedfordshire FROM

Women live on average for longer than men but spend more of their life in poor health, often limiting their ability to work and participate in day-to-day activities. So I was pleased when, this summer, we published the first ever government-led Women’s Health Strategy, which will see women and girls in England benefit from improved healthcare.

The strategy includes a commitment to undertake major new research on women’s health issues to ensure the latest evidence and advice is being used in the treatment for conditions like fertility and pregnancy loss and gynaecological conditions, such as endometriosis, which affects 1 in 10 women. It will ensure all doctors are trained to provide the best care to women by introducing mandatory specific teaching and assessment on women’s health for all graduating medical students and incoming doctors. It also commits £10 million for a breast screening programme to provide 25 new mobile breast screening units for areas with the greatest challenges in screening uptake.

01234 www.artistryproperty.co.uk889987 THE ART OF SELLING UNIQUE HOMES Perfectly connecting people and property. If you are thinking of selling a unique home, contact us for a free market appraisal and valuation. Artistry Property Agents | 36 St Peter’s Street | Bedford | MK40 2NN

“Tragic news” that bills could hit £4,426 in the second quarter of next year before easing led the consumer champion Martin Lewis to urge the “zombie government” to come up with an immediate action plan to help households. He’s not the only one who is screaming out that this will be unaffordable for millions. Earlier this month former Labour Prime Minister Gordon Brown did more to tackle the cost-of-living crisis than the current or future Tory PM when he set out the case for an emergency budget, as Keir Starmer and the Labour front bench have been calling for, for months.

The government’s energy bills support scheme provides a £400 discount on bills spread over six months from October for every household, a £650

While the impact of soaring inflation, spiralling prices on groceries, fuel and energy bills is impacting those on the lowest incomes including families, those living with disabilities and pensioners most severely, there’s no one I’ve met who isn’t worried about their domestic finances.

Mohammad Yasin, MP for Bedford and Kempston FROM

WORDS

means-tested one-off payment to 8 million lowincome households, £150 for those on disability benefits and £300 for pensioners. But this was designed when the forecast for the October price cap was £2,800.

I was pleased to see the Government finally agree to the windfall tax on the vast profits of the energy giants but much more is needed to ease the crisis. We need to scrap the tax breaks on oil and gas producers, and we need to take back control of our energy to cuts bills by investing in homegrown renewable and nuclear energy production, vastly increase on and offshore wind and solar power and cut VAT on energy bills. We need to keep homes warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer by insulating 19 million more homes and cut small business rates. Income tax cuts may help a bit but will do nothing to help those on the lowest incomes. We need action from this Government now but instead of recalling Parliament, our leaders are digging their heels in not to act with the current PM saying it’s a matter for the next PM. 5 million people – almost half the UK population – face fuel poverty in October when prices rise again. Time is running out to change Universal Credit in time. The country can’t wait for the Tory leadership contest to be over. They’re all in the same party – they need to get together for the good of the nation instead of focussing on their careers to come up with a plan to prevent social catastrophe. People’s livelihoods, mental health and indeed lives depend on it. Every summer when Parliament is in recess, I take the opportunity to knock on doors as often as possible to hear the concerns of my constituents. I’ve been doing this for years but never I have sensed such a profound sense of nervousness and dread about the cost-of-living.

There are all kinds of surveys and statistics being reported about millions of people already cutting their cloth including skipping meals, but I’m hearing people struggling to find any more areas of spending to cut back on to keep their finances above water. And that’s before the October energy price cap hike when the choice between heating and eating will be optimistic for many.

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The VillageSharnbrookShow

Jane has also opened Earwig Park & Ride, where horse owners can enjoy stress-free parking and ride around two miles of mown grass tracks bordering the river Great Ouse with optional jumps ranging from 40-80cm for £10 per rider. Open daily, both activities can be booked through Facebook or by contacting Jane on 07815 908331.

The exhibitions were often held at Tofte Manor, home of Mrs Wells, and were clearly a major event in village life at that time. The 1939 exhibition schedule included a Bonny Baby contest in the ﬁeld by the Church Hall, now Townsend Road, along with skittles, coconut shies and an ‘electric ring’. And interestingly, one list of classes for professional gardeners who had to pay 3d per entry with prizes of 3/-, 2/- and 1/-, and another almost identical list for ‘cottagers’ who paid 2d per entry and could win 2/6d, 1/6d or 1/-.

Hosted by Sharnbrook Gardening Club, the Sharnbrook Village Show has a long history with exhibitions held for more than 80 years. Sharnbrook Gardening Club, the oldest club in the village, started life as the Sharnbrook and Souldrop Horticultural Society. The oldest actual record held by the club is the 1939 exhibition schedule, but it is almost certain that the society started long before this with the 1939 President being Mr Wells of the brewing family and Vice Presidents such as Lord Melchett.

STIX 12

This year’s show is on Saturday 3rd September at Sharnbrook Village Hall opening at 2pm. Entrance is 50p and free for children. In the

New Teddy Trailin Pavenham

The Society lapsed from 1940 to 1946 and from 1973 to 1977. In 2014 the name changed to the Sharnbrook Gardening Club, but many of the 1939 classes for vegetables, ﬂowers, fruit, baking, jam and handicrafts were similar to those today.

Created by Jane Dippolito, who moved to Pavenham a year ago, Earwig Teddy Trail & Riverside Picnics is £5 per child and free for accompanying adults.

Earwig Teddy Trail & Riverside Picnics has opened in Pavenham, o ering a fun outdoor experience for Childrenfamilies. are invited to follow the trail to find all the cute teddies hidden in the trees, meeting big Billy Bear in his book corner along the way. Visitors can stop for a cuddle and read Billy a story before continuing to the sweet station to pick a treat. The route ends at a pretty, shaded spot by the river where a paddle and a picnic can be enjoyed, with lots of opportunities for spotting wildlife including kingfishers, dragonflies and the resident otter.

Carlton’s car boot sale is back The popular car boot sale at Emmaus Village in Carlton has returned, taking place on the first Sunday of the month.

A andaresidents,ofincludingofOctoberthewillScarecrowSharnbrookFestivaltakeplaceoverweekendof7-8thwitharangeprizesupforgrabs,a1stprize£50.OrganisedbytheeventisfirstforSharnbrookvillagersareasked

Pitches, which are available to pre-book in the Bric a Brac shop at Emmaus, are priced at £8 for cars and £12 for vans (trailers are an additional £5).

The event, which is open from 10 until 2pm with free entry, raises vital funds for the homelessness charity. Calling all knitters and crocheters!

Copy deadline for the September issue is 9 September.

Sellers are also welcome to turn up on the day when cars will be £10 and vans £14.

The Bedfordshire Walking Festival returns this year from 10-18th September with walks every day across the county. Routes vary from short heritage walks to half and full-day walks, right up to the 40mile Greensand Challenge. The informative heritage walks include Marston Vale Forest Centre, Henlow and Stewartby. For those who prefer something a little different, there is a flexible walk and river cruise along the Great Ouse and there are longer routes for more seasoned walkers, including the North Bedfordshire Village meander. Most walks are free and do not require booking. www.bedswalkfest.co.uk

£2 and those wishing to take part should email sharnbrookscarecrowfestival@gmail.com or call/text Suzy on 07723 392304 by Friday 9th September. All proceeds will go to children’s charities.

Help is needed from keen knitters and crocheters who would like to join in with a project Sharnbrookfor village. Karyn Romeis, who is organising the project, is inviting willing hands to knit or crochet poppies for a Remembrance display to be showcased beside the memorial benches in Church Lane in PatternsNovember.will be supplied, and yarn can also be provided, although donations of yarn will be gratefully received. If you would like to be involved, email karyn@romeisfamily.com

Do you have some village news to share? Email jacqui@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

to join in the fun by creating a scarecrow for passers-by to see. A scarecrow trail map and voting form will be available for £1 from the Co-op, Pick-a-Lily, Sharnbrook Deli and Café, and Ready, Steady Roll. Everyone is invited for tea and cakes in the village hall from 10am to 4pm on the Saturday where the winners will be announced, and prizes presented at Entry3pm.is

Join our local Walking Festival

Scarecrows are coming to Sharnbrook!

Here is our volunteering pick for September 2022 as we head into Autumn. It gives a flavour of the many opportunities we hold at CVS Bedfordshire from organisations across the area, so do contact us for more opportunities if you can’t see something that appeals to you. You can subscribe to our monthly newsletter at volunteeringforvolunteer-newsletterwww.cvsbeds.org.uk/allthelatestopportunitiesandotherrelatednews. 43 Bromham Road, Bedford Call 01234 354 366 or Email: www.cvsbeds.org.ukvolunteering@cvsbeds.org.uk

FACES Family Support Volunteer – Home Visiting Service

Do you think you could offer a caring home in Bedford to raise, socialise and train puppies and young dogs up the age of 18 months? You would need to be available for online training, visits including home visits and regular puppy training classes.

This group is looking for someone who can independently examine the accounts of a small community music group with a turnover of less than £3,000. All you will need is a good understanding of accounts. It is a task that would need to be done between mid-January and mid-February.

Being a parent is the best qualification to help with this service for families who are struggling t o cope and being supported by FACES. You will be carefully matched to families according to where you can fit in according to your experience and confidence.

Provide one-to-one support to people with sight loss by visiting them in their own homes to help them get the most out of technology. Tasks will include setting up new devices and troubleshooting problems. You will support people local to your own area.

Canine Partners Volunteer Puppy Parent

Royal National Institute of Blind People Roaming Tech Support

OPPORTUNITIESVOLUNTEERING

This is a role for someone with a sound knowledge of how information systems support an organisation’s management and development. You will be guiding CPRE Bedfordshire in upgrading their IT system. Search for and register an interest in all the listed roles above and many more, by adding the name of the organisation into the keyword field on our Simply Connect opportunity search at cvsbeds.org.uk/volunteer. Call us if you need any further information on 01234 354366.

National Trust Wimpole Estate Food & Beverage Volunteer

Bedford Gallery Quire Independent Accounts Examiner

Our Food and Beverage volunteers understand the importance of a little sit-down, and help visitors to relax, refuel and refresh during their visit to Wimpole. Great for someone who likes being around people and doing a varied role –juggling tasks as well as trays of food!

CPRE Bedfordshire – The Countryside Charity IT Volunteer

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Telecommunications, broadband and connected industries continue to slash prices in what is a consumer-led price war, and the simple truth is many of us are still paying too much for our mobile phone contracts. So if you’re coughing more than about a tenner a month for your mobile phone contract – and by that I mean calls, texts and data, not the device itself – you’re probably in line to save some Itmoney.allcomes down to looking for the best-priced SIM for your needs, because once you ﬁnd the right deal, it’s really very easy nowadays to grab your PAC code and switch networks. Now usually when I suggest switching to a di erent mobile provider, people come back with concern over signal strength for, say, Lebara Mobile or PlusNet or whoever it is o ering the best deal on data. The reality though is that the communications network is run by four companies and four companies only – O2, EE, Vodafone and Three. Every other provider is piggybacking o their signal, so, in e ect, it’s the same signal.

In this month’s column, Martin Lewis looks at how, in a time of rising costs, we can make savings in other places. There’s so much attention at the moment on the cost of petrol, the cost of our utilities, the rise in inﬂation, and it all seems like bad news. Yet sometimes we are all guilty of obsessing over the negative elements whilst failing to recognise good opportunities elsewhere; and if you’re looking for one sector where costs, pretty much consistently over time, have always decreased, then reach into your pocket and take out your trusty mobile phone.

So by selecting one of the smaller companies all you’re doing is going with a virtual network, and everything else should remain the same. Obviously check before you sign up to see if 5G or tethering conditions are available, but beyond those things it’s the same line. It’s strange that mobile phones are such an integral part of our lives, yet many of us take for granted the competitiveness of the industry and don’t realise where we can be making savings.

In an era of prices rising inexplicably across the board in other elements of our life, the time is now to start working the equation back in our favour, so have a look at your bill, survey the competition and start the conversation! He’s the UK’s leading money saving expert – a journalist and presenter who has kept millions of pounds in people’s pockets as well as lifting the lid on the threats and dangers we need to be aware of as consumers.

MIND...ONMONEYMY

CONSUMER 16

Martin Lewis is the Founder and Chair of MoneySavingExpert.com. To join the 7.5 million people who get his free Money Tips weekly email, go to www.moneysavingexpert.com/latesttip

The columnLewisMartin

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Published by Forever on September 1st

A Life With Footnotes by Terry Pratchett

To help with her terrible writer’s block, Lucas offers to take Rosie on a series of experimental dates meant to jump-start her romantic inspiration; if only Lucas’s time in New York didn’t have an expiration date!

The Bullet That Missed by Richard Osman

Trouble is never far away where the Thursday Murder Club are concerned. A local news legend is on the hunt for a sensational headline, and soon the gang are hot on the trail of two murders, 10 years apart. To make matters worse, a new nemesis pays Elizabeth a visit, presenting her with a deadly mission: kill or be killed... While Elizabeth grapples with her conscience (and a gun), the gang and their unlikely new friends (including TV stars, money launderers and ex-KGB colonels) unravel a new mystery. But can they catch the culprit and save Elizabeth before the murderer strikes again?

Published by Viking on September 15th

One: Simple One-Pan

Published by Transworld on September 29th

At the time of his death in 2015, award-winning and bestselling author Sir Terry Pratchett was working on his ﬁnest story yet – his own. Following his untimely death from Alzheimer’s disease, the mantle of completing Terry’s memoir was passed to Rob Wilkins, his former assistant, friend and now head of the author’s literary estate, and now the circle has been squared on a writing career that inspired so many.

This month, four non-fiction.fictionthereleasesSeptemberacrossspectrumofandMixed

Penned by one of the people who knew him best, this ofﬁcial biography of the storytelling genius that was Terry Pratchett draws on both the writer’s own unpublished notes and interviews from close friends and family, to create a resounding tribute to a unique literary talent.

The ExperimentRoommateAmerican by Elena Armas

Published by Simon & Schuster on September 6th

BOOK BAG

In One, Jamie will guide you through over 120 recipes for tasty, fuss-free and satisfying dishes cooked in just one pan. Better still, each recipe has just eight ingredients or fewer, meaning minimal prep (and washing up) and maximum convenience.

Packed with budget-friendly dishes you can rustle up any time, One has everything from delicious work from home lunches to quick dinners the whole family will love; from meat-free options to meals that will get novice cooks started.

From the author of The Spanish Love Deception, this eagerly anticipated follow-up features Rosie Graham and Lucas Martín, who are forced to share a New York apartment.

Wonders by Jamie Oliver Jamie Oliver is back to basics with over 120 simple, delicious, one-pan recipes.

Address:Name: Tel: For last turnanswersmonthspleasetoP62 CrosswordPrize Across 1 Pointed tipped weapons (6) 5 Terrific, wonderful (6) 8 Source of wealth or valuable information (4,4) 9 Resides at the Vatican Palace (4) 10 Undiluted (4) 11 Support from beneath (8) 12 Roadside facility for travellers (7,4) 15 Device to measure energy usage (3,5) 18 Weak cry (4) 20 Soft feathers (4) 21 Bend over with laughter (6,2) 22 Tacky, gummy (6) 23 Make furious (6) Down 1 Communication device (5) 3 Examiner of accounts (7) 4 Actions responsesproducing(7) 5 ____ = distance / time (5) 6 The Pied _____ of Hamlin (5) 7 Exact copy (7) 12 Coastal town (7) 13 On the way (2,5) 14 Hiker, leisure walker (7) 16 Frenzied (5) 17 Contraction of Edward (5) 19 Squeezed and twisted to remove water Complete(5) crossword,thefill in your details below, cut out this section and send to the address below before Friday 9th MK43BedfordshireFoxbrook,BedsLife,PrizeSeptember.Crossword,17Stevington,7QY £25 Last CrosswordMonthsWinner –Danna KempstonGurney, 20

SUE STARLIGHTRYDER HIKE BEDFORD

Get together with family and friends on Saturday 15th October and walk under the stars to celebrate and remember the life of someone special while supporting Sue Ryder. Kindly sponsored by M&DH Insurance Services Ltd, Sue Ryder Starlight Hike Bedford will start at Everard Meadow and follow a 5k or 10k route along the beautiful Bedford Embankment and through Russell Park. There will be pre-walk entertainment to build the party atmosphere and a fun warm-up before participants sporting fancy dress, flashing headwear and neon face paint set out on their walk, enjoying live music along the way. The funds raised will help Sue Ryder to provide even more expert and compassionate care, ensuring that the end of people’s lives can be filled with friendship, family and love in those final moments together.

for your home Offering an honest, reliable & professional domestic cleaning service. We would be happy to visit you to discuss your requirements. DBS checked and fully insured. References available. CLEANERS WANTED Are you reliable, hard working and enjoy cleaning? We would love to hear from you! Call Sue on 07792 citruscleanuk@gmail.com369102 22

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Last year Sue Ryder provided over 830,000 hours of care to thousands of families across the country, including from its Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice in SignMoggerhanger.upnowat sueryder.org/bedfordstarlight or contact the Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice Fundraising Team via email stjohnsfundraising@ sueryder.org or call 01767 642412. Tickets are £15 for adults and £6 for children aged 6-12. Family and group ticket options are also available. Caring

With Rooms The Kingﬁsher RIVERSIDE PUB & ROOMS Now Open 01234 enquiries@thekingfisherbedford.co.uk270044 thekingfisherbedford.co.uk Barns, Cardington Road, Bedford, MK44 3SA Riverside Pub

@lydeatsfood

The Fratelli restaurants are Bedfordshire institutions, with spots in both Ampthill and Woburn. Tucked away above the Ampthill restaurant is their e ortlessly stylish sister restaurant, Fratelli Cicchetti. The restaurant o ers elegant, modern Italian food in a beautiful dining space. It is the perfect spot for a date night, plus on Thursdays you can indulge in 2 for 1 cocktails. Weekends include a fabulous bottomless brunch and a family friendly Sunday roast, reservations are most certainly recommended for this popular spot. On my most recent visit, we started with the delicious Fritto Misto, a combination of fried calamari, prawns and courgettes in a light batter. The main courses were the real show stoppers, we tried the Mafaldine Cicchetti, handmade long ribbon pasta with chicken in a luxurious creamy tru e sauce. The Rigatoni Salsiccia in a rich and spicy creamy tomato sauce with Sicilian sausage was just divine. The place to go for contemporary Italian cuisine and fantastic cocktails! Make sure to check out my Instagram for more local foodie ﬁnds!

CICCHETTIFRATELLI

The picturesque market town of Ampthill is steeped in history and surrounded by beautiful countryside with lots of lovely local walks. It is also jam packed with restaurants, pubs and cafes making it the perfect place for foodies too.

GET YOUR BROWS IN SHAPE FOR CHRISTMAS Get in touch for FREE consultation & booking. Text “brows” to 07904 301 391 Brow Services: Brow reshape- threading Brow laminate • Brow tint Microblading • Micropigmentation 6 Elmsdale Rd, Wootton, Bedford MK43 9JN Patch test is required 48hrs before treatment 0 1 2 3 4 8 2 2 3 3 0 www.brownsofstagsden.co.ukinfo@brownsofstagsden.co.ManorFarm,StagsdenMK438SH Stop at Stagsden for all your local produce Browns of Stagsden... A proper farm shop on a proper working family run farm Home reared/local meat & poultry Fruit/TheWine Cellar in Olney vegetables. Homemade pies OPENING TIMES: Tues - Thurs 10am to 4pm Fri 10am to 5pm | Sat 9am to 3pm &TearoomLicensedGarden 25

The cemetery is on a beautiful sloping site and some areas can be steep, so need care for anyone with reduced mobility.

Foster Hill Road Cemetery

A beautiful Victorian Grade II listed cemetery with great trees and lovely surroundings.

We will be leading guided walks to areas of special interest, many of them themed walks. We will be taking groups around the cemetery on guided walks, or you can take a leaflet and follow it around at your own pace.

Explore Shuttleworth House, Shuttleworth Swiss Garden, and the Shuttleworth Collection. Take a relaxing walk around the Shuttleworth Swiss Garden filled with pretty seasonal colours and two delightful peacocks. Wander along the woodland sculpture trail, around a lake home to a variety of wildlife. Observe fantastic views and scenic surrounding countryside from North Park’s gentle hills, before a stroll around the paddocks overlooking the grass airfield. Venture inside the Shuttleworth House and admire its grand period It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – all of which are FREE to explore. Here are a few of the local historical venues that will be taking part this year. Heritage Open Days 2022 9th-18th September

The Gatehouse, Foster Hill Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK41 7TD

OPENHERITAGEDAYS

Saturday 10 September: 1000-1600 Burial records from 1855 onwards will be available, no organised guided walks, but leaflets for self-guided walks will be Sundayavailable.11September: 1345-1600 guided walks around the cemetery showing graves of particular interest and natural history. No booking required. Contact Mrs Margaret Carpenter 07951 577461 www.fosterhillroadcemetery.co.uk/ Shuttleworth Shuttleworth, Alder Drive, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, SG18 9DT

We hope it will be possible to have all the registers from 1855 available for everyone to see and search for individual burials as required. Representatives of the Friends of Bedford Cemetery (which is arranging the event) will be available to help with searches of the registers and also the grounds of the cemetery itself.

We tell the story of the Marston Vale Railway Line engineered by Robert Stephenson which opened in 1846 and celebrating its 175th Anniversary Year. It was the first railway line to reach Bedford and for much of its life serviced the vast clay workings and brickworks at Brogborough and Stewartby; later transporting much of London’s rubbish to landfills in the former clay workings. Now at the heart of the East-West Rail Scheme to reconnect Oxford back to Cambridge. Guided tours are available at the Heritage Centre. New Marston Vale Line 175th Anniversary Exhibition. There may be an opportunity to ‘meet’ one of the former Victorian station staff on Sundays during Heritage Open Days. Family Quiz and Puzzle Booklet are available to purchase from the Gift Shop. New Symbol Spot Trail for children aged five and over. Collect your free pack from the Gift Shop with a valid train ticket. Vintage Tea Room in the former Ladies Waiting Room (10% discount available for rail passengers). A variety of circular & linear walks are available from the Heritage Centre. Friday 9 September – Sunday 11 September : Wednesday1000-1600 14 September – Sunday 18 September : 1000-1600 No booking required. Booking recommended for Tea Room – call 01525 287120. New outside seating area available. Contact Ridgmont Station Heritage Centre Gift Shop 01525 287121 www.marstonvalecommunityrail.org.uk

rooms. Discover the Shuttleworth Collection, showcasing the best of early aviation, vintage vehicles and Clayton & Shuttleworth industrial heritage. Thursday 15 September: 1000-1700 heritageopenday2022/www.shuttleworth.org/product/

An award-winning Victorian (1846) station house restoration in the Gothic Cottage Orné style, with Museum (Original Victorian Booking Office with historical displays & temporary exhibitions) Station Master’s Parlour, vintage tea room & more!

Stotfold Watermill and Nature Reserve Mill Lane, Stotfold, Bedfordshire, SG5 4NU Stotfold Mill is a fully restored and operating watermill. It’s a great place to explore, with a traditional tearoom, gift shop and riverside nature reserve. Ample free parking and disabled access to all floors. Run entirely by volunteers the watermill covers three floors and is in operation, water level allowing, at set times during opening hours. Information panels describe its history and restoration and our Milly Mouse signs direct visitors to key points around the building giving insight into the milling process, along with volunteer guides on all the floors, there are also working models and displays. There are loads of fun things for kids to do as well, including grinding their own flour and following the Milly Mouse trail around the mill and nature reserve. There will also be an exhibition in the Ivel Room showcasing model vehicles, from horse-drawn to diesel. All created by local craftspeople. Cream teas are on sale in Randall’s Tearoom along with soup and a wide selection of cakes. Our stoneground flour and oats can be purchased from the Kingfisher gift shop. The Mill stands on an eightacre Local Nature Reserve which is a great place to take a relaxing stroll or have a picnic. Sunday 11 September: 1230-1700 Sunday 18 September: 1230-1700 No booking required Contact Pat Clarey 01462 734541 www.stotfoldmill.com

For more information visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk

Ridgmont Station Heritage Centre Ridgmont Station Heritage Centre, Station Road, Ridgmont, Bedfordshire, MK43 0XP

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To advertise with us, please contact christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk NOWHOMEINSTALLINGVEHICLECHARGERS www.rgr-garages.co.uk01234750207 RGR Garages (Cranfield) Ltd, High Street, Cranfield, Bedfordshire MK43 0DG RGR 50dealershipaCranfiGarageseldfamilyrunFORDforoveryears For all makes and models of vehicle –service, repair and MOT MOT standalone cost £45, if booked with a scheduled service MOT is £35 Free collection and delivery in 15 mile radius Please quote‘Beds Life” whenbooking for10% discount. 29

Please come along and try your hand at short mat bowling in Bromham Village Hall. Bowls available and all abilities welcome. Training can be given if you are a beginner. First two sessions are free with a cup of tea/coffee, biscuits and chat at half time. Telephone Ron Chapman 01234 822755 or Sue Amor 01234 823610 for more information or just come along.

CLUBS GROUPS&

Acoustic and folk music round-the-room. Musicians, singers and poets all welcome, at every level. Find us on Facebook or come along. The Pavilion at Kempston Hammers Club. MK42 7BN COMMUNITY DROP-IN SESSIONS

OAKLEY RURAL DAY CENTRE FOR THE ELDERLY

MONDAYS 2.00PM – 4.30PM (AS FROM 19TH TUESDAYSEPTEMBER)EVENINGS

Christ the King Church Hall. Harrowden Rd, Bedford, MK42 0SP.

BROMHAM SHORT MAT BOWLS CLUB

We are a friendly Social Folk Dancing Club. No partner required. £2 per session St Marks Church Hall, Calder Rise, Brickhill, Bedford MK41 7UY Contact: Rosemary 01234 405594

For details contact Lynne Tuesday to Thursday on 01234 824935 Or Mobile: 07733 227374. Email: Oakleyruraldaycentre@Yahoo.Com www.Oakleyruraldaycentre.Weebly.Com

We provide a fun filled day of activities, games and good old conversation. Day includes refreshments and a two-course lunch. The Old School, Lovell Road, Oakley, Beds, Mk43 7RX

2ND AND 4TH TUESDAYS OF THE MONTH AT 2.30PM

CARERS SOCIAL GROUP FIRST THURSDAY EVERY MONTH –10AM TO 12PM Join this friendly group where you and the person you care for can meet others in similar circumstances over a cuppa. There is no need to register and there is no charge – just turn up! Carers in Bedfordshire Office, Emerald Court, Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford MK41 7PZ GOLDEN FRIENDSHIP CLUB –FOR THE OVER 50’S EVERY THURSDAY – 2PM TO 4PM, ENTRY £1 Refreshments, raffle, bingo, games, crafts and more. Also occasional meals and outings. For information call Marion on 01234 304382 Christ the King Parish Hall, Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP BEDFORD FOLK & ACOUSTIC CLUB

London Road Surgery & Cauldwell Medical Centre are pleased to be hosting a drop-in session on the first Thursday of every month, starting on the 1st September 2022 between 10am and 12pm

CARERS SATURDAY SOCIAL GROUP FIRST SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH –10AM TO 12PM

BEDFORD FOLK DANCE CLUB

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 including Sight Concern (From October), BPHA, MIND, Big Local, TIBS Dementia and Direction For Bedfordshire.

THURSDAYS 8.15PM TO 10.15PM Friendly Country and Folk Dance Club. No partner It’srequired.good fun for only £3 For more info call Ron Law 01234 825574 St Marys Church Hall, Church Lane, Goldington, Bedford MK41 0HL

7PM – 9.30PM

Do you look after someone who can’t cope without your support? This could be a parent, child, partner or other family member or friend, with any condition. Join this friendly group where you and the person you care for can meet others in similar circumstances over tea and cake. Only £2 entry. Priory Methodist Church, 63 Newnham Avenue, Bedford, MK41 9QJ

CARERS TOGETHER

EVERY THURSDAY 8:30PM – 11PM

To advertise with us, please contact christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk Wentworth Drive PutnoeLane PutnoeStreetLibraryWalkPutnoeHeightsHartopCloseCARPARK BreconWay 8 Librar y Walk, Putnoe, Bedfor d, MK41 8HF OPENING HOURS: Mon - Fri 9am - 5.30pm. Sat 9am - 4pm Easy Access • FREE PARKING T: 01234 325060 • www.johnkayeoptometrist.co.ukProfessional Car e Modern Vision • Private and NHS eye examinations • Contact lenses • Digital Retinal Imaging & Optical Coherence Tomography • Wide range of frames & lenses, from economy to designer • Professional, friendly & relaxed atmosphere • Spacious practice all on one floor • Anti-fog lenses and wipes available WEHEREARE We are a family friendly HCPC registered Podiatry clinic based in Harrold. Relocated to bigger premises, after 19 years, as Mary Marsh Chiropody Clinic, in Irchester. Nail Care Verrucae (Microwave Therapy from Swift) Treatment of Corns & Calluses Diabetic Assessment Fungal Nail Treatments Biomechanical Assessment SaxonFootcarewww.saxonfootcare.co.ukinfo@saxonfootcare.co.uk For all your Footcare needs, get in touch today to book an appointment with our team. We are currently taking on new patients 01234 984444 59 High Street MK43Harrold7BH w 31

Our floral demonstrator will be Beverley Short with “All the World’s a Garden” Visitors welcome £7 Addison Centre, Bedford Road, Kempston, MK42 8PN www.bedfordfloralartsociety.co.uk

This year’s Show will be opened by players from Bedford Blues. Join us for a fun day out for all the family. Lots of food concessions, competitions,and a wide variety of stalls including Bouncy Castle, Circus Skills, Fun Dog Show, Human Fruit Machine, Face Painting, Children’s Fancy Dress Competition, Tennis Skills, Beer, Cider & Pimm’ s

ANNUAL BIKE & HIKE SATURDAY 10TH SEPTEMBER

GREAT BARFORD FUN DAY

END OF SUMMER FAIR SATURDAY 10TH SEPTEMBER 11AM TO 3PM Live Entertainment, Refreshments, Games, Treats for every visitor and much more Blakelands Lodge Care Home, Gee View, Marston Moretaine MK43 2AH

SUNDAY 11TH SEPTEMBER 12 NOON TO 4 PM

WHAT’SON 32

FRIDAY 9TH SEPTEMBER 7.15 FOR 7.30 START Nicky Hunter Talk/demonstration of Flowers in Watercolour. Nicky’s radiant artworks capture “realism with a touch of romance” in a colourful, expressive style. Entry free for members, £5 for visitors. Contact Jean Paterson on 01234 307210 or www.bedsartsociety.co.uk for further information. Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford MK41 8EB

BEDFORD FLORAL ART SOCIETY TUESDAY 6TH SEPTEMBER 7.30PM

GARDEN CENTRE SUNDAY 11TH SEPTEMBER 11AM TO 4PM

ST PAUL’S CHURCH SEPTEMBER RECITALS

Walk or Drive round open churches. Help maintain many beautiful and ancient buildings by raising funds through sponsorship for the Beds & Herts Historic Churches Trust. Last year almost £8000 was raised for the Trust by Bedford participants and sponsors. Details from Area Organiser – Alan Colley (Bedford) colley64@yahoo.co.uk or Ann at St Paul’s, Bedford 07989 837819

Our annual fun day for all the family, Inflatables, Zorbs and rides, food and trade stands, Big Raffle and more. Come and support our community for a great day of fun and entertainment. At the Playing Field and Village Hall in Fishers Close, MK44 3JA.

BIDDENHAM SHOW

BEDFORD ART SOCIETY MEETING

FUN DOG SHOW AT MILTON ERNEST

Tuesdays lunch time recitals: 1.00 pm. FREE with retiring collection in aid of church funds. Suggest min £5.00 Monthly Saturday organ recitals: 12 noon, also FREE with retiring collection in aid of church funds Sat 10th 12 noon Organ, Chris Ouvry-Johns of Leicester Cathedral Tues 13th Harry Bagnall tenor and Paul Searle, Piano Tues 20th Emmanuel Bach, Violin Tues 27th Nataly Ganina, Piano Bell Sundaysringing:4th, 3 pm in honour of the Lord Lieutenant and 25th September, 3 pm for the High Sheriff’s Justice Service (This service brings together, gives thanks for and supports all who administer law and order in the county, together with those who work to prevent offending behaviour, protect our society, provide support for all who need it ) Sunday 11th & 18th, 11. 40am (supporting the Tower, Clock & Bells appeal www.bedfordclockandbells.com/

Registration is from 11am and it is £2 to enter one class or £5 for three classes Judging starts at 12.30pm and rosettes are awarded for 1st to 5th place plus special prizes. There will also be lots more to enjoy from a bouncy castle and little donkeys to meet to ice cream and sweet stalls, craft classes and much more. Also don’t miss the dogs demonstration at 12pm. All money raised is donated to the Canine Partners charity. Milton Ernest Garden Centre, Radwell Road, Bedford MK44 1SH

SATURDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER 12 NOON TO 5PM

You don’t have to register in advance to attend a walk – just turn up on the day. Our events are always free, and we make them as accessible as possible. You can bring friends, family (including children and/or pets) and colleagues to the walks. They may not necessarily have mental health issues themselves, but are still welcome to attend. Meet at The Pavilion – Park Av, Bedford MK41 7SS To list an event in our October issue please email christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk by Friday 9th September. Priority will be given to non profit events. FOR MORE WHAT’S ON EVENTS WWW.BEDSLIFEMAGAZINE.CO.UKVISIT

7.30PM AIMING TO FINISH BY 9.30PM Jo Thomas presents ‘Wildlife of Panama – from the Canal to the Sky’. Jo runs the travel company ‘Wild about Travel’ and has a vast & interesting knowledge of much of the world’s spectacular wildlife. Tonight, as the title suggests, is devoted to Panama. Suitable for Experts and Novices, RSPB membership not essential. Entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 annual group membership £5 under 18s enter free. The facilities, including refreshments, are at ground level and there is secure parking. ARA club, Manton Lane Bedford MK41 7PF For more info www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford

The legendary local cover band, perform hits 1970s -2000! Main stage Licensed bar. A fundraising event for Sharnbrook Mill Theatre, Reg. Charity 242164 Tickets £12 www.sharnbrookmilltheatre.co.uk/ tickets or Pick-a-Lily, Florists, Sharnbook, in person. Sharnbrook Mill Theatre, MK44 1NP OAKLEY SHOW SUNDAY 18TH SEPTEMBER 9AM Showcase your home grown produce as well as arts and crafts at this year’s Village show. Oakley Village Hall, Church Ln, Oakley, MK43 7RJ

Tent, Food & Refreshments, Dog Agility Course, Tea & Cakes and more. Admission: £2.50, Under 12’s Free St James’ CE VA Primary & Village Hall, Main Road, Biddenham. www.biddenhamshow.org

THURSDAY 15TH SEPTEMBER – MEETING

Jumble/Garage Sale Trail Bric a’ Brac stalls, Lucky bags and Games, Refreshments available, Tea, coffee and squash Bacon rolls and more. Free Entry. London Road Methodist Church, London Road, Bedford MK42 0NT BEDFORD LOCAL GROUP OF THE WILDLIFE WEDNESDAYTRUST14TH

BEDFORD RSPB LOCAL GROUP

AFTERNOON VINTAGE TEA

Table Top Sale as part of the Bedford (South)

FRIDAY 23RD SEPTEMBER 2PM TO 4PM Includes tea, home-made cake and friendship Entry £4 Christ the King Parish Hall, Harrowden Road, Bedford, MK42 0SP For information call Nigel on 07780 617057

SEPTEMBER – MEETING

JUMBLE TRAIL SALE STALLS SUNDAY 11TH SEPTEMBER 11.30AM TO 3PM

MENTAL HEALTH MATES SEPTEMBER WALK

SATURDAY 24TH SEPTEMBER 10AM TO 11AM

or call 07905199769 Covid restrictions may apply. Should there be a deterioration and medical advice not to meet, then we would adhere to that.

FYNNIUS SATURDAYFOGG17TH SEPTEMBER 7.30PM

7.15PM FOR 7.30PM Illustrated talk ‘An Introduction to Bedfordshire’s Geology‘ By Bev Fowlston Plenty of parking available, All welcome, no charge but voluntary contributions are appreciated. Further details available under Events on www.wildlifebcn.org or 01234 266057 Priory Methodist Church Hall, Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ Covid restrictions may apply. Should there be a deterioration and medical advice not to meet, then we would adhere to that.

During the Winter Season, the club is open seven days a week. There are 19 leagues for bowling at all levels with mens, ladies and mixed teams. There are also ‘roll up’ periods where members can come on the day and put their names down for a social bowl. This enables all members to practice but particularly for new members to gain experience with specific coaches available to help. Also, anyone can pop in and have a look, play a few ends, and make your mind up before joining. Besides an active period of bowling for all, social activities include – Craft and coffee mornings, Bingo, Race Nights, Quiz evenings, Knit and Natter plus special evenings with entertainment. Light and lunch time meals are available during the week at very reasonable prices in our spacious social area. Tea, coffee, and chocolate are always available. There is also a full-size snooker table, a darts area, and a full bar service. Age, ability both physical or mental and previous experience are not important at KPIBC, just the wish to play indoor bowls. There is an active Wheelstars section where special wheelchairs are provided, and Tibbs Dementia also use the club on a regular basis. Our last major improvement included a new suspended ceiling with special climate control heating and cooling with differing levels for the bowling area and social area and the refurbishments of the toilet and changing facilities. This has made the club one of the best in the area for Thefacilities.Management team and staff work enthusiastically for the club and for its members. But the ethos of KPIBC right from its beginning is that the club is run by the members for the members. The winter season starts in September when memberships are renewed for the full year. The fees for 2022/2023 are £78.00 for bowling members and £15.00 for social members. A two-hour bowling session costs £3.50. 290 Hillgrounds Road, Kempston, Bedford MK42 8UB. Our telephone Tel 01234 852291. Winter Season (from September 19th) opening hours are from 9.00am each morning. The closing times are Mondays 7.00pm, Tuesdays 9.30pm, Wednesdays 9.30pm, Thursdays 10.00pm, Fridays 9.30pm, Saturdays 1.00pm and Sundays 1.00pm. We have a planned Coffee Morning on Tuesday 13th September from 10.00am to 12 noon so do please come along and visit the club. www.kempstonparkbowls.co.uk

KEMPSTON PARK INDOOR BOWLS CLUB

This year especially, we are all enjoying our freedom and the outdoor activities involved. But what about those coming Autumn and Winter months when the days shorten and the weather changes? Well, no worries, you can always be assured of a warm welcome at any time of the year at Kempston Park Indoor Bowls Club (KPIBC).

To advertise with us, please contact christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk Traditional Hatha Yoga for all abilities and ages To improve and maintain health –Drop in…….no termly fees Fully qualified, insured, experienced teacher Cotton End Village Hall MK45 3AU Please bring a mat. juandhannigan@yahoo.co.uk Can YOU Escape the Room? 23-27 Allhallows, Bedford, MK40 1LN, Tel: 0333 242 dontgetlockedin7357Email: info@dontgetlockedin.com, Exclusive 10% discount for BedsLife readers when you book online using code BL10%ESCAPE 6 Exciting Rooms: Gin & AudaciousTheReturnTheExtortionPanicSecretHutToTheRockVaultwww.dontgetlockedin.comREVIEWSONCHECKOUTOUR ESCAPELockedDon’tGetInROOMS 35

We are passionate about 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 you 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 We are the voice for Parent Carers of children & young people 0-25yrs 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. c coommmmuunniiccaattiioonnss@@bbbbppccff..oorrgg..uuk k . .bbbbppccff..ccoo..uuk k 0 07799443 3 5 5224455553 3

AUTUMN TERM EVENTS 2022 Coffee Morning Monday 19th September - 9.30am-11.30am Evening Get Together Tuesday 20th September - 5-7pm IPSEA Training for Parent Carers Tuesday 27th September - 9.30am-3.30pm Coffee Morning Monday 3rd October - 9.30am-11.30am Coffee Morning Monday 17th October - 9.30am-11.30am Coffee Morning Monday 31st October - 9.30am-11.30am Coffee Morning Monday 14th November- 9.30am-11.30am Coffee Morning Monday 28th November - 9.30am-11.30am Coffee Morning Monday 12th December - 9.30am-11.30am All our coffee mornings and evening get togethers will be held at Project 229, Bedford Road, Kempston, MK42 8DA. No booking needed, just come along and join us for a cuppa and some cake. We will have guest speakers at each one so check out our website to see who will be joining us www.bbpcf.co.uk www.bbpcf.co.uk

Tue 20th September @ Esquires

‘...the blueprint of something grand’ – Pitchfork ‘One of the best new bands of 2021’ – Stereogum ‘They meld genres spanning generations with ease’ – The Line of Best Fit LOS BITCHOS

Thur 15th Sept @ Esquires

MATTERSMATTERSMUSICMILKYS

Formed in 2017 over a mutual love of cumbia (Afro-Latin dancing music, laced with rock guitar), Los Bitchos are Australian Petale, ex-drummer of dreamy indie rockers Kid Wave on guitar; Uruguayan Agustina Ruiz on keytar; Swede Joseﬁne Jonsson, once of garage rockers

Francis of Delirium is the alliance of two generations operating in the service of a certain vision of rock. One half of the band is Vancouver born Jana Bahrich, 19, who sings, writes songs and plays guitar with a fascination for 90s grunge – an era that she didn’t experience herself, but feels strongly connected to. Accompanying her on drums is Chris Hewett, a Seattle expat 30 years her senior. The Luxembourg-based duo formed after Jana became friends with some of her classmates, who played in a family band with their father: Chris. Their partnership can seem unusual, but it deﬁnitely makes sense, with both being creatively inﬂuenced by the grunge movement (especially Nirvana and Pearl Jam).

Thee MVPs, on bass; and Londoner and NHS physiotherapist Nic Crawshaw on drums. As the million-plus views on their KEXP live session attest, they’re a band who need to be experienced live, though they’ve bottled their lightning with debut album Let the Festivities Begin!, on which cumbia parties with Turkish and Middle Eastern

FRANCIS OF DELIRIUM

ESQUIRES

Thur 15th Sept Francis of Delirium

Sat 24th Sept A ecks Palace + Pastel

Fri 30th Sept Luke Tushcherer & Dave Banks

psych-rock and distorted, fuzzy surf-garage. It was produced by Alex Kapranos of Franz Ferdinand who provided vintage synths and razor-sharp discipline. Its music made by crate-diggers who aren’t chin-scratchers, whose laudable main ambition, as they told NME, is to “play all over the world and make people dance”. With festival appearances conﬁrmed over Summer 2022 at Primavera Sound (Barcelona), Super Bock (Portugal), Bluedot, Latitude and End of the Road, it is quite the coup that Los Bitchos will be appearing at Esquires in September.

Formed in Manchester in summer 2019, A ecks Palace are a 4-piece psyche guitar band described as “The birth of Nu-Madchester” by online curation platform Manchester Lemon and is championed by BBC 6music’s Steve Lamacq, Chris Hawkins & John Kennedy of XFM. The band’s last two singles ‘This City Is Burning Alive’ & ‘Carpe Diem’ have been playlists on 6music on the C & A list respectively. The group’s debut LP ‘What Do You Mean It’s Not Raining’ was awarded 9/10 by iconic Manchester journalist John Robb of Louder Than Ware and charted at no.10 in the UK charts in December 2021. Single ‘Pink Skies’ from the album reached number No.37 in the UK chart also. Support act: PASTEL (touring to support the release of their 2nd EP) Pastel are a 5-piece guitar band, signed to independent Manchester label Spirit of Spike Island recordings. O of the back of their debut EP ‘Deeper Than Holy’ reaching No.1 in the UK Vinyl charts in 2021, they were o ered the coveted support slot for Liam Gallagher at his recent Knebworth gigs playing to a crowd of 80,000+ Pastel’speople.

recent release ‘Isaiah’ has had extensive play on 6music as well as XFM. COMING UP, COMING UP Catch them before they move to bigger venues

SUPPORT THE BEDFORD

Sat 24th Sept Blaze Bayley (main room)

+ many more, check listings at bedfordesquires.com for details or facebook.com/bedfordesquires

AFFLECKS

PALACE + PASTEL Sat 24th Sept @ Esquires

Palace Punk – The Outcasts Indie Legends – The House of Love Rock – Blaze Bayley Local (Whybirds) legends – Luke & Dave Special appearance – Yard Act Keep music live, Milky

– DEADLETTER, M O S E S, Los Bitchos, A ecks

Sat 3rd Sept MOSES + What Follows Sun 9th Sept DEADLETTER + Soft Lad + TueStatyc13th Sept The House of Love + Pete Astor

Tickets available from Esquires, Slide Record Shop and online at seetickets.com

Tue 20th Sept Los Bitchos

LIVE SCENE UPCOMING GIGS FOR YOUR DIARY

Fri 16th Sept Total Stone Roses Sat 17th Sept Yard Act

Thur 22nd Sept That’s Alt Folk presents : Will Page @ The Place Fri 23rd Sept The Outcasts

Lisa Tulloch attended Simply Red and commented: “What an AWESOME performance from these guys last night..... they’ve still got it! Marisha Wallace was just outstanding!!! Concerts organised this year in Bedford/Milton Keynes through Bedford Concerts have been phenomenal, can’t wait for the line-up for 2023!!”

The concert team are still hard at work and are touring all over the country, however their next ‘local’ show will be on Saturday 3rd September in Kimbolton Castle with Queen Symphonic Orchestra. The stars from the smash hit London West End production ‘We Will Rock You’ will be on stage as part of a rock and orchestral spectacular celebrating the music of Queen. Queen Symphonic will entertain the crowds with one of the biggest rock shows you are ever likely to experience. Over 60 performers will be on stage, with the ‘We Will Rock You’ star singers backed by a full rock band together with The Heart of England Orchestra. Rock Choir and Scott McWatt will be the support acts. An unmissable night, tickets are available herequeen-symphonic-kimbolton-castle-tickets/https://lphconcertsandevents.co.uk/events/ 40

Daisy Lawrence attended Paul Weller and commented: “He was brill-i-ant! We’re so lucky to have these concerts on our door step!”

ANDCONCERTSLPHEVENTS

The team at LPH Concerts and Events have completed their recent four-day concert event, which was a massive success! Bedford Park Concerts welcomed Simply Red to the park last Thursday, Mambo Ibiza on Friday, Paul Weller on Saturday and the spectacular finale and Bedford’s much loved event Proms in the Park. Over 20,000 music fans attended the shows, which catered for all music tastes, Concert Promoter, Mark Harrison, comments: “It was a brilliant four days of live music, the weather was perfect, the audience were in fine form and the acts were superb. We’ve had some amazing feedback from those that attended and we wanted to say a huge thank you to everyone that came and supported us. We were determined to put Bedford on the map for attracting some of the biggest musical talent in the world, to come and perform here in our muchloved Myselftown.andmy dedicated team are all from Bedford so the Bedford Park concert series is truly a special one for us. We are looking forward to coming back next year and hope to have some exciting acts to announce soon!” Bedford Park Concerts announced at the Proms concert that the show would be back on Sunday 30th July 2023 and the tickets will be on sale via www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk in two weeks’ time. The preceding nights are still to be announced. The concert team supported local charity the Beds and Northants MS Therapy Centre, which raised a huge £8000 over the concert weekend!! Diane Waring attended the proms concert and commented: “Fantastic evening, amazing music, superb entertainment. Can’t wait for Bedford Proms 2023. An event our town should be very proud of”

To advertise with us, please contact christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk Ageing Well Festival and Exhibition for the over 50’s Wednesday 19th October 2022 Bedford Corn Exchange 10am to 2pm Come along to see a wide range of Information stands on Health and Wellbeing, Care, Benefits, Sport and Leisure. Take part in Taster sessions such as Yoga, Chair Based Exercise, and Origami. Come along and get a Health Check, Hand Massage, Energy Saving Products and have the opportunity to talk to the Mayor at his clinic. Free Refreshments will be served all day and a free raffle draw will take place. For more information contact Jo Rising on 01234 360510 or email enquiries@ageukbedfordshire.org.uk 41

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First came the lengthy trip to the Bards of Stratford where the Eagles equalised with a goal from substitute Will Summerfield minutes from the end. That was followed by the first home match where 455 saw the first win of the season as Barwell visited the Eyrie. As the mercury approached 35 degrees, the teams battled for their fist win of the season. Bedford looked to have earned the three points as goals from Connor Tomlinson and new boy Ty Lewthwaite, put them two ahead. The visitors had other ideas bringing the score back level as the match entered its final fifteen minutes. The Eagles sealed the win as Tomlinson got his brace ten minutes from time. After the intense battle in Saturday’s heat, the last thing the Eagles wanted was an away trip two days later, but that’s just what they got with a Monday night visit to Kings Langley. Both sides entered the game on four points, and the winner would be top of the table come the end, but this match was a step to far for the travelling Eagles as they went down by two goals. Tomlinson in his hundredth appearance for Bedford was unable to find the net this time, but Hugh Alban-Jones did pop up and give the travelling fans hope of an elusive equaliser as the clock ticked down.

The Eagles championship winning team have had a promising start to their new life in the Pitching In Southern League Premier Central division with four points from their first two games, but slipped up on their third outing giving manager Gary Setchell food for thought as the season progresses.

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Saturday 17th September – Bedford Blues v London Scottish Saturday 1st October – Bedford Blues v Caldy

Saturday 15th April – Bedford Blues v Jersey Reds

Friday 3rd February – Bedford Blues v London Scottish (7:45 KO – CUP)

Saturday 29th April – Bedford Blues v Coventry 45

Don’t panic if you haven’t purchased a Bedford Blues Season Ticket for the upcoming campaign because there’s no reason for you to miss any of the action with matchday tickets now on sale for all home matches throughout the 2022/23 season. With more entertainment and excitement set for Goldington Road, don’t miss a second of the play as Mike Rayer’s side look to get their hands on some silverware for the first time since 2005. Simply head to www.bedfordrugby.co.uk/tickets to secure your seat at the home of Bedford’s premier sporting club.

Friday 17th March – Bedford Blues v Richmond (7:45 KO) Saturday 1st April – Bedford Blues v Ealing Trailfinders

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Saturday 22nd October – Bedford Blues v Doncaster Knights Friday 11th November – Bedford Blues v Coventry (7:45 KO – CUP)

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FIGHT

How can I prevent my cat from fighting?

If your cat regularly gets into fights with a neighbour’s cat, you could agree between yourselves to let them out at different times of day.

Cat fights frequently result in scratch and bite wounds. These may be obvious soon after the fight. Other times, a deep puncture wound from a tooth may not be visible immediately. Over the next few days, the bacteria in the wound may multiply and a pus-filled swelling may appear (an abscess). Cats with infected wounds or abscesses are usually lethargic and may have a reduced appetite. The wounds are usually painful. Cats that are engaged in frequent conflict with other cats in their local area may become reluctant to go outdoors. This can lead to stress behaviours such as overgrooming or inappropriate toileting.

Any cat that goes outdoors could get into a cat fight. However, it is much less likely to occur if your cat is neutered. Many cat fights occur at dusk, so the risk of fighting is reduced if cats are called inside in the early evening and kept in overnight.

When cats

Cats generally prefer their own company and do not share their food or territory readily. This can lead to fighting between cats when they meet each other out and about. Fighting is more common in the summer months when the evenings are warm and light and cats roam further and stay out for longer.

What are the consequences of cat fights?

Fitting a microchip cat flap will allow your cat (and no other cats) to escape into the house if they are being chased.

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An encounter with a raptor is one of nature’s most exhilarating experiences. You can’t fail to be awed by a buzzard gliding majestically over farmland, or a kestrel’s steely focus as it hovers mid-air at the side of a busy road.

Although diet ranges from species to species, raptors are all meat eaters. As well as small mammals, such as mice and voles, these birds of prey will hunt a variety of creatures ranging from other birds to large insects, reptiles and amphibians. Many will also take carrion.

Derived from the Latin word rapere, meaning to seize or take by force, the word raptor is used to describe a group of birds that includes falcons, buzzards, eagles and hawks. They share a number of common characteristics – keen eyesight, agile ﬂight and strong bills and talons – qualities which combine to make them excellent hunters.

There are 15 species of raptor breeding in Britain, and many of these have been recorded in Bedfordshire. The three you’re probably most likely to see while out and about are the buzzard, kestrel and the sparrowhawk, which you’re most likely to encounter in your garden! Buzzard It’s hard to believe that as recently as the 1960s the buzzard was a scarce species, having su ered from years of persecution and pesticides. Today they’re the most common and widespread bird of prey in the UK, with an estimated breeding population of up to 79,000 pairs. These large, impressive birds have a wingspan of up to 1.3 metres, and as you’d expect, they build a bulky nest – often over a metre in width – high up in trees. Buzzards normally mate for life and are ﬁercely territorial. They are adept at hunting a wide range of animals, from mice, voles and rabbits to worms and large insects if other food is scarce. This ﬂexibility in their diet is a key contributor in enabling them to rebuild healthy populations, with numbers quadrupling nationally since the 1970s. You will often hear a buzzard before you see it – listen out for their distinctive “mewing” call, and then raise your eyes to the skies to see them soaring overhead. Kestrel Unlike the buzzard, for reasons as yet unclear, this small falcon has seen its population decline over the past 50 years. Possible causes include a decline in available nesting sites and a fall in the population of voles, which account for the majority of its diet. Most people encounter kestrels as they hunt along road verges of country lanes, main roads and even motorways. Kestrels use various methods to hunt prey but the most well-known is the stationary hover. They will hold their head

A GUIDE TO

perfectly still as they hover in the air, dropping down from the sky once they have spotted their next Asmeal.well as the hovering technique – which is more energy-consuming – they will also perch stock still on a post or tree branch and wait for passing prey before pouncing. Their eyesight is extremely keen, and its thought that kestrels can spot a beetle from 50 metres away! Sparrowhawk

An alarm call, a whoosh, and a few feathers tumble down to earth from where a bird once fed on the feeder. This is usually the most people ever see of sparrowhawks. Much maligned by some, it’s worth remembering that having a sparrowhawk in your garden is a good thing, because it’s a sign the local bird population is strong enough to support this fantastic predator. Consequently, the best place to see a sparrowhawk is in your garden: it’s a truly urban raptor. Male sparrowhawks are around the size of a blackbird, while females are larger, around the size of a pigeon. They have bright yellow eyes, which can become orange in older birds. They rely on an element of surprise when hunting, perching out of sight near to a popular feeding station and then quickly swooping in to seize their prey. They are incredibly agile in ﬂight, reaching speeds of up to While30mph.buzzards, kestrels and sparrowhawks are amongst the most common raptor species in our county, there are several other raptors that you might be lucky enough to encounter while you’re out and about. A little harder to ﬁnd, but all recorded in Bedfordshire, are peregrines, red kites, osprey, merlin, hen harriers, marsh harriers and honey

Ifbuzzard.youspot any of these wonderful birds of prey please be sure to let us know, especially if you’ve seen them across our sites.

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Finish planting your strawberries as soon as possible. Otherwise, they will not have time to establish themselves and build strong crowns for fruiting next year.

A lesson I have learned and want to share with you is the enduring happiness that the love of gardening gives. Something else I’ve learned… plant and your spouse plants with you, weed and you weed alone. Please get out there in your gardens and enjoy every minute – planning, preparing, planting, caring for it and enjoying all its fruits, colours and tastes. READY FOR AUTUMN

Early September is the time to take lavender cuttings and those taken with a heel (a thin strip of bark), root most readily. They can be rooted in a sunny, sheltered bed outdoors or in sandy soil in a cold frame. Your rose cuttings can also go in now. Rambler roses always grow well from cuttings as do many of the old-fashioned floribunda.

One of my favourite flowers (and I have many) are lilies. Most lilies should be planted during October and November but an exception, and one I recommend, is the lovely Madonna Lilly ‘Lilium Candidum’ which can be planted any time now. Don’t bury them too deeply. Just an inch of soil above them is ample.

Onions are late ripening some seasons, which is hardly surprising when you think of the unpredictable nature of our climate. If the tops have not been turned over yet to expose the bulbs to the sunshine, promise me you’ll do it now. Continue to gather early apples and pears as, generally speaking, these early maturing varieties are not long Remember,keeping. none of us are ever too old to stop learning.

GETTING

Welcome again to my rather hot potting shed. Last month saw several hosepipe bans come into force, so it’s out with the watering cans and a modest use of our water. I’ve no need to remind you that early morning and late evening is the best time to do your watering –just enough, directed at soil level. Our lawns have been depressing with yellow sandy coloured areas. Don’t worry, the green, green grass of our home lawns will return; it always does. We’re heading for autumn next month. At this time of year, our gardens produce garden waste that will add invaluable organic richness back into your soil next year. It’s a good time to make a gift of your flowers. Plant hyacinth and amaryllis bulbs indoors so you can give your friends and family a flowering pot for Christmas.

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BedsLife Magazine September 2022

Articles inside

Last Months Crossword Answers

Gardening

Forest of Marston Vale – A Guide to Raptors

Acorn House Pets Column

Bedford Town FC

What’s On

Milky’s Music Matters

LydEats Food – Fratelli Cicchetti

Heritage Open Days

Clubs & Groups

Sue Ryder Starlight Hike

In the Stix

Martin Lewis

About Town with Love Bedford 6

Books

Volunteer Opportunities

Council News

Mohammad Yasin MP

Richard Fuller MP