FREE MARCH
2021
inside Captain Sir Tom Moore online book of condolence Census 2021 International Women’s Day Marston Vale Forest Nesting Birds £25 Prize Crossword
Captain Sir Tom Moore 1920 – 2021 www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk
10,000 copies Delivered to Elstow, Shortstown, Wixams, Wilstead, Houghton Conquest, Stewartby, Marston Moretaine.
HIGH TEMPERATURE, NEW PERSISTENT COUGH, CHANGE IN SENSE OF TASTE OR SMELL
Free tests are available in Bedford. Book your test at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119 now.
contents
Captain Sir Tom Moore Online Book of Condolence
4
Volunteer Opportunities
6
Mamma’s House
8
Online at the Higgins
10
Bedford Borough Parent Carer Forum
12
Census 2021
14
Marston Forest - Nesting Birds
16
International Womens Day
18
Prize Crossword
20
The Composing Cook Recipe Chocolate Banana Bread
22
Phoenix French Bulldog Rescue
24
Wood Green
25
Gardening - Tools of the Trade
26
Useful Local Resources
28
Last months crossword answers
30
APRIL ISSUE DEADLINE WEDNESDAY 10TH MARCH FREE
FREE
MARCH
2021
MARCH
2021
inside
inside
Captain Sir Tom Moore e online book of condolenc Day Internatio nal Womens Census 2021 Marston Vale Forest Nesting Birds
Captain Sir Tom Moore e book of condolenc
Marston Vale Forest Nesting Birds £25 Prize Crossword
£25 Prize Crossword
Captain Sir Tom Moore 1920 – 2021
Captain Sir Tom Moore 1920 – 2021
zine.co.u k www.bed slifemaga and North Beds Villages
30,000 copies Delivered
online
Census 2021 Day Internatio nal Womens
to Bedford
Carlton & Chellington
10,000 copies Delivered
zine.co.uk www.bed slifemaga Houghton Conquest, Stewartby, Marston Moretaine.
to Elstow, Shortstown,
Wixams, Wilstead,
Milton Ernest
Pavenham
Oakley
Clapham
Stevington Bromham Biddenham
@bedsLife ADVERTISING Christa: Tel 01234 962929 | 07827 015170 E: christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk Donna: Tel 07796 082836 E: advertising@bedslifemagazine.co.uk DESIGN AND ARTWORK Doug Dawson Creative Ltd | www.dougdawson.co.uk
DO YOU WANT TO PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS LOCALLY?
ad te ils W
@bedslife_magazine and
Stewartby
on ht t ug ues Ho onq C
FOLLOW us on
Elstow Wootton ms ixa W
LIKE our Facebook page BedsLife Magazine to keep up to date with events, offers and local businesses and services.
Kempston n ow tst or Sh
for even more local articles and lots of interesting and helpful local information!
Kempston Rural
M Mo ars re ton tai ne
www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk
t Grea m ha Den
Don’t forget to check out our website
Bedford
DELIVERED IN TOTAL TO 40,000 HOMES, OUR READERS ARE YOUR POTENTIAL CUSTOMERS! MIX AND MATCH TO SUIT YOUR TARGET AREA AND YOUR BUDGET.
For more information call Christa on Tel 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslifemagazine.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.
BedsLife Magazine would like to thank all our advertisers for their continued support, without which we would not have a publication. Please remember, if you have enjoyed reading BedsLife and are looking for a trades person or service, we have a whole range of fantastic local businesses promoting themselves each month.
Bedfordshire church launches online Book of Condolence for Sir Tom Captain Sir Tom Moore 1920 - 2021
The parish church of St Mary’s, Marston Morteyne, the parish where Captain Sir Tom Moore lived for so many years, has launched an online book of condolence, primarily for the people of Bedfordshire. Anyone may contribute to it, but Bedfordshire residents may identify themselves as such by ticking a box. The initiative is supported by HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedford Helen Nellis and The Rt Revd Richard Atkinson, Bishop of Bedford who want the communities of Bedford to be able to honour Sir Tom in this way and express their gratitude for his life and sorrow at his loss. St Mary’s has written a prayer for all who mourn his loss. The condolence book and the prayer can be accessed directly via www.sirtom.org and from the parish’s own website: stmarysmarston.org The Lord Lieutenant and the Bishop also expressed their own thoughts about Sir Tom: The Lord Lieutenant said: “We were all so sad to hear that Captain Sir Tom Moore passed away in Bedford Hospital this week and we send our thoughts and prayers to his wonderful family who are grieving the loss of a much- loved father and grandfather. 4
“Captain Tom was a national treasure who inspired us, and NHS staff, with his gentle, clear and hopeful messages, encouraging us to know that “tomorrow will be a good day.” The image of him walking 100 laps of his garden will always make us believe that we are all capable of doing something to help. “The twinkle in his eye and his humble dignity touched the hearts of the world and we are proud to honour him as a son of Bedfordshire whose remarkable contribution will be forever remembered by history.” The Bishop added: “To so many, Sir Tom represented the best of our courage and character. Though we are sad, we are also profoundly grateful for him and his magnificent contribution over the last year. “We will be learning lessons from his optimism and can-do approach to life for some time, but for now the impression left on me is of someone for whom it was never too late to make a difference and a powerful statement about the value of each person’s contribution. “Though we miss him, how much more will his loving and extensive family, who are in our prayers.”
SERVICES
Gardening Service
78–82 Bromham Road, Bedford MK40 2QH Tel: 01234 360510 www.ageukbedfordshire.org.uk
ANTIQUE & MODERN FURNITURE REPAIR AND RESTORATION IN BEDFORDSHIRE
RESTORERS OF ANTIQUE & MODERN FURNITURE. FRENCH POLISHING. French Polishing&•MODERN Kitchen FURNITURE. Worktop Sand & Re-oil RESTORERS OF ANTIQUE FRENCH POLISHING. HAYDN CLARKE Desk Leathers Supplied & Fitted • On-Site French Polishing HAYDN CLARKE Work Insurance, Fire & Flood work TEL:Undertaken 01923 252738 MOBILE: 07958 710979 59 TEL: ELSTOW KEMPSTON, BEDS. MK428HH Collection & Delivery 01923ROAD, 252738 MOBILE: 07958 710979
E-MAIL: HCRESTORATIONS@SKY.COM WWW.HCRESTORATIONS.CO.UK 59Haydn ELSTOW ROAD, KEMPSTON, BEDS. MK428HH Call on 01234 851 624 or 07958 710 979 E-MAIL: HCRESTORATIONS@SKY.COM WWW.HCRESTORATIONS.CO.UK hcrestorations@sky.com • www.hcrestorations.co.uk
To advertise with us, please contact christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
5
VOLUNTEERING
Refill Bedford Social Media Volunteer Refill Bedford is looking for someone to help grow their online presence and keep their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts exciting and upto-date. Could you help them?
Grand Union Housing Group – Telephone Befriender An opportunity to help others who feel isolated and lonely by listening with empathy, understanding without judgement, encouraging conversation and focussing on the positive.
Volunteering Opportunities
Many organisations are having to cut down on the activities that volunteers would normally engage in due to the pandemic. Others are busier than ever and not in a position to train new volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering, please register on our system and be patient as it may take a while for organisations to be able to accommodate you. 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
Thomas Pocklington Trust – Bedfordshire Sight Loss Council Member Become a council member and make a difference by representing the voice of blind and partially sighted people under the six priority themes of education, employment, technology, health and social care, transport, sport and leisure. If you’re interested in gaining advocacy experience, and are a great communicator and confident with technology (or willing to learn), then don’t miss this opportunity to be an advocate from your own home! This role is for a blind or partially sighted person.
Tools with a Mission – Volunteer Speaker The role of the Tools with a Mission (TWAM) speaker is to talk to groups in your local community leaving them with the challenge to support TWAM through tool collections, financial provision or by volunteering. This is a Christian charity, sending tool kits to overseas countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Friends of Bedford Cemetery – Secretary Someone with good organisational skills and IT literacy is wanted to join a friendly group which raises funds for Bedford Cemetery. The secretary will ensure that meetings of the board are properly administered, fix meeting dates, prepare agendas, send out minutes and other papers.
43 Bromham Road, Bedford Call 01234 354 366 or Email: volunteering@cvsbeds.org.uk www.cvsbeds.org.uk 6
SERVICES
HIGHPOINT CONSTRUCTION
07971 424586
01234 950715
07982 958775
• General Building
• Refurbs
• Kitchen + Bathrooms
• Extensions
• Property Maintenance
• Loft Conversions
• Alterations
• Garage Conversions
• Plastering
A L L B U I L D I N G W O R K U N D E R TA K E N
www.highpointconstruction.co.uk
To advertise with us, please contact christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
7
Spring into March
Hello March! Although, it seems that there’s not been much to look forward to since well, last March? Having something to look forward to motivates us to keep going. Whether it’s a graduation ceremony at the end of our studies, or spending time with family and friends after a long week at work. So I’ve put a list together of things to look forward to this month. And, there is no chance of any of these being cancelled, even if we are still under restrictions.
I’d love to know what you’d add to this list, tag me @mammas_house on Instagram. 8
1. The clocks go forward on 28th March. We spring forward an hour, which means the sun will have already started to set later, the days will feel longer and we can get our daily dose of vitamin D to help lift our moods. 2. The first day of spring is officially 20th March. Which will bring with it fresh pastel colours, flowers in full bloom and more time outdoors. 3. With spring we get an array of new in season fruit and vegetables, why not try something new; artichokes, purple sprouting broccoli or grow some watercress with the children. 4. Participate in an age old tradition and Spring clean your home. Spring cleaning is a great excuse to go through your wardrobes and cupboards and get rid of things you don’t need, or clean the top of that bookshelf you’ve been meaning to get around to. It will also give you a sense of satisfaction which will put you in a good mood. 5. Other dates for your diary you can get involved with at home include; •World Book Day – 4th March • International Woman’s Day – 8th March • Mother’s Day – 14th March • St. Patrick’s Day – 17th March • International Waffle Day – 25th March.
SERVICES
BRIDGE ROOFING All aspects of roofing, facias and guttering. Free quotes All work guaranteed 01234 404080 07542 719971
www.roofingbedford.co.uk
he
re p Bl lu m bin g is
iss
Plumbing & Heating
W
BL ISS
ALL ASPECTS OF PLUMBING & HEATING UNDERTAKEN
No matter how big or small your job is, Bliss Plumbing & Heating have the knowledge to get the job done. Leaking Taps & Burst Pipes | Radiators & Hot Water Cylinders Towel Rails | Power Flushing | New Heating Systems & Upgrades | Replacement Bathrooms | Taps, Showers and Ball Valves Expansion Tanks and more... Contact us on the details below or
FULLY INSURED AND FULLY QUALIFIED
City & Guilds Qualified | High Referral Rate |Competitive Rates | Flexible Hours
07805 540432 www.blissplumbing.co.uk info@blissplumbing.co.uk To advertise with us, please contact christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
9
Craft Club Thursday 11 March 10:30am – 12pm Free, Online Event
The Higgins Knitting and Crochet Group The Higgins Knitting and Crochet group is now online! While staying at home, you can join us to share photos and talk all things knitting and crocheting. Knitting for various charities, improving wellbeing and keeping each other company.
Treat yourself and join local illustrator, Katie Allen, for Craft Club! A relaxing, creative session for adults, where you can learn new crafty techniques, re-visit old ones, or just enjoy some colourful creative inspiration. Please visit www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk for more information.
The group meets every third Tuesday of the month at 11am, currently on Zoom. You can become a member of the Facebook group ‘The Higgins Knitting and Crochet Group’
Story Telling Sundays Sunday 7th & Sunday 14th March 2pm – 3:30 pm Free, Online Event Create your own imaginary story or poem inspired by a piece of art or an object from the collections at The Higgins Bedford. Share your ideas and feelings within this small sociable group, led by Satwinder Kaur. Ideal for those who may be feeling isolated, lonely or who want to be creative. Please visit www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk for more information.
Sketch Friday Online
Online at The Higgins
Every week we will post an object or artwork from the Higgins collections which we hope will inspire you to create your own piece of art. We would love it if you could share a photo of your work with us. No particular artistic skills required, any media that takes your fancy – it’s just for fun. We look forward to seeing what you come up with and welcome suggestions for future themes. You can become a member of the Facebook group ‘Sketch Friday’ Please visit www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk for more information
10
Are you interested in getting into Primary teaching? Would you like to find out more? Training with SAF ITT could be the way to achieve your dreams of becoming a teacher. We offer both primary and secondary initial teacher training courses. We are hosting a virtual Train to Teach information event on Thursday 22nd April. This will be held remotely via Teams. There will be two sessions; one at 10.00am - 11.00am, and one at 6.00pm - 7.00pm. This will be an opportunity to meet with the course leaders and gain an understanding of our primary and secondary programmes. Qualification requirements: • have achieved a standard equivalent to a grade 4 or C in GCSE English and mathematics • if you intend to teach pupils aged 3 to 11 (primary) you should have achieved a standard equivalent to a grade 4 or C in GCSE science subject • completed an undergraduate degree or in the final year of study • if you intend to teach in secondary, your degree should relate to your chosen subject specialism We look forward to seeing you at one of our virtual events. To book a place please email ITTAdministration@saf.org.uk indicating whether your interest is in training in primary or secondary.
“I have really enjoyed the personalised training.” SAF ITT trainee
Are you interested in getting into Secondary teaching? Would you like to find out more? Training with SAF ITT could be the way to achieve your dreams of becoming a teacher. We offer both primary and secondary initial teacher training courses. We are hosting a virtual Train to Teach information event on Monday 19th April. This will be held remotely via Teams. There will be two sessions; one at 10.00am - 11.00am, and one at 6.00pm - 7.00pm. This will be an opportunity to meet with the course leaders and gain an understanding of our primary and secondary programmes. Qualification requirements: • have achieved a standard equivalent to a grade 4 or C in GCSE English and mathematics • if you intend to teach pupils aged 3 to 11 (primary) you should have achieved a standard equivalent to a grade 4 or C in GCSE science subject • completed an undergraduate degree or in the final year of study • if you intend to teach in secondary, your degree should relate to your chosen subject specialism We look forward to seeing you at one of our virtual events. To book a place please email ITTAdministration@saf.org.uk indicating whether your interest is in training in primary or secondary.
“I have really enjoyed the personalised training.” SAF ITT trainee
11
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. 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 and other events for parents to come along, give their views and meet other parents. We also run training sessions for Parent Carers.
If you would like to find out more or become a member please contact us or complete our online membership form: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ParentCarerMembershipFormBBPCF
communications@bbpcf.org.uk www.bbpcf.co.uk
@bedsboroughpcf
07943 524553
@bedsboroughpcf
@bedsboroughpcf
Are you or do you care for a child or young person aged 0-25 with Special Educational Needs and / or a Disability? Visit
for the latest information on accessing services, support and activities in Bedford Borough.
Our calendar for the first term of 2021 is below, you are welcome to book onto any of these free virtual events, please email us at communications@bbpcf.org.uk to book your place or call us 07943 524553
Monday 15th March 10am
Monday 22nd March 10am
Virtual Get Together What is personalisation?
Virtual Get Together Down’s Syndrome (impact from Covid)
This will be an online presentation which will let you know what personalisation is for your child with SEND. There will also be time for questions and discussion.
This will be an online discussion session about the impact of Covid on young people with Down’s Syndrome. We want to hear how it has impacted your family.
14
15
Nesting birds: creating the ideal home At this time of year, many birds begin building their nests, and you’ll start to see them transporting caches of building materials to their chosen nesting sites. Nests have one primary purpose – to contain clutches of precious eggs, and then later, to protect the defenceless young that hatch out of them. But despite sharing an identical purpose, nests vary greatly in shape, size and construction.
16
In the garden, you’re most likely to encounter the nest of a blackbird, robin or member of the tit family. Robins nest in holes and crevices. Gaps in trees and tight spaces amongst fences and climbing shrubs are favoured, although robins are also famous for building nests in more unusual places such as old wellington boots! The female bird builds the neat, cup-shaped nest alone over the course of about three days, from dried grasses, leaves and mosses. During this productive time, the male supports the operation by providing food for the female. A robin may have two to three broods each season, and will build a new nest for each new family. During February, blue tits also begin to start searching for a cosy cavity in which to nest. They will readily set up home in nest boxes in gardens. Nests are created by the female and made from moss and leaves, with a soft lining of feathers, hair and fur. Remarkably, the tiny blue tit lays an average clutch of between eight and 12 eggs, laying one egg each day. Timing is crucial: with so many young mouths to feed, blue tits aim to raise their families when caterpillar populations are at their highest during May. A female blackbird will spend up to two weeks creating her more substantial nest from twigs, grasses and other plant material, reinforcing and lining it with mud. Preferred nesting locations are in thick vegetation such as dense shrubs and hedgerows which offer protection from predators. Blackbirds lay two or three clutches of eggs each season, and male birds will often care for the young while the female prepares for the next brood. One of the most attractive nests you may come across is that of the long-tailed tit. Built by both the male and female over the course of around three weeks, this oval-shaped masterpiece is constructed from moss and hair bound together with spider silk and covered with delicate lichen. It is then lined inside with over 1,000 feathers to create a soft mattress for the tiny inhabitants. Nests are usually made within thick vegetation such as gorse or hawthorn. Watching birds collecting nesting materials and constructing their nests is fascinating, and becomes even more rewarding if you are able to witness them raising a family in their new home. You can help support birds during this busy time by continuing to feed them high-energy foods and also providing a supply of nesting materials for them, such as pet fur or short lengths of wool. If you are lucky enough spot a nest whilst out walking – or in one of our woodland sites – it’s important to remember to watch from afar or with binoculars so as not to get too close, as disturbance can cause birds to abandon their beautifully crafted nests.
17
International Women’s Day Monday 8th March International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. Significant activity is witnessed worldwide as groups come together to celebrate women’s achievements or rally for women’s equality.
So, hand up high to show you’re in! Share on social media using #ChooseToChallenge #IWD2021.
Marked annually on March 8th, International Women’s Day (IWD) is one of the most important days of the year to: •
celebrate women’s achievements
•
raise awareness about women’s equality
•
lobby for accelerated gender parity
•
fundraise for female-focused charities
What’s the theme for International Women’s Day? The campaign theme for International Women’s Day 2021 is ‘Choose To Challenge’. A challenged world is an alert world. Individually, we’re all responsible for our own thoughts and actions – all day, every day. We can all choose to challenge and call out gender bias and inequality. We can all choose to seek out and celebrate women’s achievements. Collectively, we can all help create an inclusive world. So let’s all #ChooseToChallenge 18
Archana Jain, India
Jessica Nakwo, Nigeria
Olivia & Elin Mendola, Sweden
Aminah Rahman, United Kingdom
Jim Nau, United States
Adie Meshach, Nigeria
SERVICES
Small, friendly plastering company based in Bedford With over a decade of experience and a strong reputation for quality workmanship and reliability.
Plastering of ceilings and walls Damaged ceilings and walls repaired Covering artex Plasterboarding Skimming Patch repairs Insurance work
Tel: 07847 307334 E | info@cmplastering.net W | www.cmplastering.net
To advertise with us, please contact christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
19
£25
Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this section and send to the address below before Friday 12th March Prize Crossword, BedsLife, 17 Foxbrook, Stevington, Bedfordshire MK43 7QY
BUMPER PRIZE CROSSWORD
Last Months Crossword Winner – J.P Tipple, Bedford
ACROSS 1 5 8 9 10 11 12 14 18 20 22 23 24 25
Grand house (7) Verifiable truths (5) Dividends, earnings (5) Ghoulish, spooky (7) Evened the score (7) Coach, teach (5) Animosity, hatred (6) Stick, attach (6) Permit (5) Sincere (7) Beasts (7) Belief (5) Ledge (5) Pudding (7)
DOWN 1
2 3 4 5 6 7 13 15 16 17 18 19 21
For last months answers please turn to P30
Name: Address: 20
Tel:
Important business person (7) Sound (5) Brilliance, astuteness (7) Wanderers, travellers (6) One side of a many-sided object (5) Savoy, Red, or Napa (7) Severe, sombre (5) Depression, sickness (7) Ridicules (7) Drain, take out (7) Stopped (6) Collect, compile (5) Dock, levee (5) Bald, Golden or Pygmy (5)
Home Counties Loft Ladders, Quality You Can Trust! These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept – but where to store it all? That’s where Home Counties Loft Ladders come in. The company, based locally, offers homeowners the opportunity to maximise their storage space with a loft ladder, 50sqft of boarding and a light - all fully fitted in less than a day from just £355! But it’s not just the affordability of the package that makes Home Counties Loft Ladders stand out, as manager Jamie Oakley explains: ‘Our
watchwords are Quality, Integrity and Value. Quality in the materials that we use for all our installations and the fact that all our loft packages are fitted by time served tradesmen, so our customers are assured of the best job.
- that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles. At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for
every installation we carry out!’ So, if you want to make use of your loft space, call Jamie free on 0808 301 9559 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft!
Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we say and make sure the house is spotless when we leave, and value in that we offer our services at a price people can afford. Our business relies on referrals and we get a huge amount of our calls from people who have been referred to us by our existing customers
Need more storage space?
INSTALL A LOFT LADDER AND USE YOUR LOFT! STARTER PACKAGE: Aluminium loft ladder, light plus 50 sqft boarding, fully fitted in less than a day from £355
• Loft Ladders • Hatches • Boarding • Insulation • Lights • Fully Guaranteed
CALL FREE: 0808 301 9559
Following COVID-19 Secure Guidelines
21
The Composing Cook The Composing Cook
It was inevitable that, at some point, I would make banana bread. As you read this, we may still be in a further extended lockdown and I know that banana bread has been a very popular lockdown cake that everyone is baking; I might as well get on the bandwagon, right? Lockdown or no lockdown you have to make this chocolate banana bread. It’s easy, moist and soooo moreish, and it can be frozen. If you think you have exhausted the banana bread, think again. Make this and tell me it doesn’t rock.
INGREDIENTS: 250g self raising flour 1 level teaspoon baking powder pinch of salt 150g caster sugar 100g butter, softened plus extra to grease your loaf tin 4 small/medium very ripe bananas 2 large eggs 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 75g dark chocolate chips 1 loaf time (measuring approximately 30cm x 11cm x 6.5cm) Serves 6-8 22
CHOCOLATE BANANA BREAD Preheat oven to 170°C (fan 160°C) and grease and line loaf tin In a large mixing bowl sieve the self raising flour, baking powder and pinch of salt. Add the butter and caster sugar and using your fingertips, rub it in until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. In a separate bowl, add the bananas, eggs and vanilla extract and whisk until combined. Pour this mixture into the breadcrumb mix and stir. Add the dark chocolate chips and give another mix. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf tin, smooth the top, and bake in the oven on the lowest shelf for 45 minutes, by which time, the top should be set. Remove from oven and place tin on a wire rack to cool for 10 minutes. Remove from tin and allow the chocolate banana bread to cool completely, if you can wait that long. Cut into slices and eat away.
You can watch me making this recipe and many others by visiting my YouTube channel, The Composing Cook. All you have to do is go to: www.youtube.com/TheComposingCook and there you will find me. Make it. Enjoy it. You will LOVE IT!!
SERVICES
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 To advertise with us, please contact christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
23
we know that many people find a great deal of comfort and purpose by creating a tribute fund in their name, for a cause close to their heart. By
for a loved one, please visit inmemory.woodgreen. org.uk or contact Wood Green’s In-Memory Giving team on 0300 303 9333 option 3.
Raising Frenchies from the Ashes, with TLC
Phoenix French Bulldog Rescue has been established in the UK since 2017 not only to offer a home to any French Bulldog, or cross-breed thereof, in need within the UK, but also to educate the public on this wonderful breed, promote and support good ownership and to help keep Frenchies at home with their families wherever possible. Sometimes, people just need advice and support to be able to manage and keep their pet, at other times they need our non-judgemental, professional help in rehoming their dog. As much
24
as we can often be heard to say that it is ‘all about the dog’ we never lose sight of the fact that there is often a broken-hearted human at the end of a surrendered dog’s lead. We will never judge and all our volunteers are mindful of this. Other dogs may be genuine ‘rescues’ and our Team are well-versed in collecting these and seeking appropriate medical attention immediately, before they even reach their specialist foster-homes where the real mending can begin. All our dogs receive the very best care, medically and psychologically, during foster and afterwards in adoption. We will never turn away a dog in genuine need unless there are extremely exceptional circumstances For General Enquiries please call 0300 772 7716 or email: enquiries@phoenixfrenchbulldogrescue.org www.phoenixfrenchbulldogrescue.org Registered Charity No. 1171943
A lasting tribute to those no longer with us A new tribute site from Wood Green, The Animals Charity gives pet lovers the opportunity to celebrate the life of a beloved friend, family member or pet by creating a space to come together, share anecdotes and keep the memories of loved ones alive. Giving a gift in someone’s memory is a wonderful way to commemorate their life, whilst also supporting Wood Green’s work to care for thousands of vulnerable pets every year. Jensen Calleemootoo, from Wood Green’s InMemory Giving team, said: “Losing someone is never easy and we understand how painful it can be. Although nothing can replace them, we know that many people find a great deal of comfort and purpose by creating a tribute fund in their name, for a cause close to their heart. By
donating or fundraising around key milestones such as birthdays and anniversaries, those loved ones stay with us forever – and help Wood Green be there for even more pets in need.” For Len, a gift to Wood Green was the perfect way to honour his late wife, Val: “Leaving a lasting tribute to Val means her love for animals lives on through the care Wood Green gives to homeless pets. Supporting a cause which brought her so much joy and happiness gives me comfort. I have something positive to focus on, despite the pain I felt since losing her.” To find out more about setting up a tribute fund for a loved one, please visit inmemory.woodgreen. org.uk or contact Wood Green’s In-Memory Giving team on 0300 303 9333 option 3.
009011NC0121
Setting up a tribute fund is a wonderful way to commemorate a life whilst making a difference to pets in need.
Wood Green, The Animals Charity, Registered Charity No. 298348
Celebrate the memory of a loved one
Visit www.inmemory.woodgreen. org.uk or call our In-Memory Giving team on 0300 303 9333 option 3 25
Tools of the trade
The right tools make gardening easier, and in my opinion you should buy the best you can afford then look after them so they will last many years. But which tools are essential? Gloves – Gardening is hard on the hands. Weeds, roots and digging are brutal on the skin. Buy a thick, good quality multipurpose pair to begin with. Make sure they fit. My first pair were too large and cumbersome. I was so naive I didn’t realise they came in different sizes...much like gardens...and gardeners! Secateurs – The task of pruning comes around with alarming regularity, so a good pair of secateurs is one of the most used items in my garden tool kit. Find a pair that feel good to hold, are well-balanced and easy to operate with one hand. Keep them clean and sharp and they will serve you well for many seasons. Trowel – Useful for hand weeding, dividing smaller plants, planting, potting on, and seed sowing. Hand Fork – A hand fork is essential for breaking up compacted soil. Sometimes it’s easier to use than a trowel and is less likely to damage roots in more densely planted areas or when separating smaller plants. Watering can – A large watering can is great, but very heavy when full so if you have arthritis or not much upper body strength choose a smaller watering can that you can handle easily and make a few more trips to the tap. A rose allows for a gentle sprinkler effect on tiny seeds and seedlings. You can use a hose if you garden a larger area. Choose a multi-tasking one with misting and sprinkler attachments Spade – You can’t dig large areas without one. As with hand tools, I prefer stainless steel. Keep it clean, with a sharp edge for digging, planting, and edging beds. Choose one that feels right for your height. Fork – A stainless-steel fork is great for stony soil, and for breaking up compacted earth. It’s also good for lifting shrubs without damaging the root system too much. Dutch Hoe – Weeding is a necessary task (and a somewhat relentless one during the growing season). The Dutch hoe has a shallow angled blade with a front cutting edge for keeping weeds down between seedlings and established shrubs and plants. Ground rake – Use this for breaking down the soil to that fine tilth gardening books go on about. Use the wide head and teeth to open and level the top surface of the soil, then use the back of the rake to firm it down. It makes seed-sowing easier and more likely to produce healthy seedlings.
26
Guttering Problems? • Gutters cleaned • Leaking gutters repaired • New guttering fitted All by a friendly, local, established company Call Rob on
01234 480244 or 07977 206403
*T er msandcondi t i onsappl y, hos edowns ev er alt i mespery ear .
27
UsefulResources AGE UK BEDFORDSHIRE Local organisation solely devoted to the welfare of the over 50’s in Bedfordshire. Tel 01234 360510 www.ageuk.org.uk/bedfordshire
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
AUTISM BEDFORDSHIRE Independent charity dedicated to improving the lives of autistic people and their families across Bedfordshire.. Tel 01234 350704 www.autismbedfordshire.net 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
CATS PROTECTION Tel 0345 260 2505 www.cats.org.uk/bedford
CHUMS Mental health and emotional wellbeing service for children and young people 01525 863924 www.chumscharity.org
COMMUNITY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE (CVS )
BEDFORDSHIRE RURAL COMMUNITIES CHARITY
Support for voluntary and community sector organisations in Bedfordshire.
Delivering a wide range of rural development and community projects.
Tel 01234 354366 www.cvsbeds.org.uk
Tel 01234 838771 www.bedsrcc.org.uk BEDFORD WOMEN’S CENTRE Supporting women in the community who may have experienced Domestic Abuse or want more information about healthy relationships. Tel 01234 316801 www.bedfordwomenscentre.org.uk
FACES (FAMILY AND CHILDREN’S EARLY-HELP 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
28
OPEN DOOR
FRIENDS FOR LIFE A local charity working to address the social isolation of residents in Bedford’s care homes
to young people aged 13 – 25.
Tel 07460 575410 www.friendsforlifebedford.org.uk
Tel 01234 360388 www.bedfordopendoor.org.uk
Charity providing FREE and confidential counselling
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 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
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.
BOLD Supporting and advocating for people with a learning disability and challenging behaviours. Tel 01234 352899 www.bo4ld.org.uk
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
ACCESS BEDFORD
MINDBLMK
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
Supporting positive mental health and wellbeing.
Tel 07376 262 873 www.accessbedford.org.uk
Tel 01234 843345 www.rvtrust.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
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
29
FEBRUARY PRIZE CROSSWORD
Answers
30
Landscaping Professionals and Garden Room specialists Now is the perfect time to get the garden and outside space you have been dreaming of Contact us today to arrange a free consultation and garden visit
Garden Offices / studios / pubs / gyms Driveways and patios Timber and composite decking Fencing and balustrades
01480 509 250
Fire Pits, pizza ovens, external bars and kitchens
info@wfhgreen.co.uk
Planters and Raised beds
www.wfhgreen.co.uk
Turfing and artificial Grass Full Design Service
31
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
