BedsLife SOUTH November 2021

FREE

South edition

NOVEMBER

2021

inside Community News Remembrance Day BedsLife Meets……

The Beds Prostate Cancer Support Group (BPCSG) What’s On

www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk

10,000 copies Delivered to Elstow, Shortstown, Wixams, Wilstead, Houghton Conquest, Stewartby, Marston Moretaine.

Milton Ernest Pavenham

Remembrance and Armistice Events BedsLife Meets….

4 Turvey

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Stevington

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Prize Crossword

14Stagsden

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Gardening – Protect and Survive

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Useful Local Resources

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Last months Crossword Answers

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Wootton

Stewartby

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Forest of Marston Vale

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Bedford

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Prostate Cancer

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What’s On

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Book Reviews

Clapham

DECEMBER ISSUE DEADLINE WEDNESDAY 10TH NOVEMBER t Grea m ha Den

Volunteer Opportunities

Ravensden Oakley

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Community News

Contents

Carlton & Chellington

for even more local articles and lots of interesting and helpful local information!

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community news Pamper and Shop!

Treat yourself to an evening of pampering, relaxation and shopping at the Forest of Marston Vale on 21 November. Find some unusual and thoughtful Christmas gifts then reward yourself with a beauty treatment... or three! Therapists offer a variety of treatments from top to toe, and local stallholders will be selling a range of gifts and beauty products as well as handmade crafts.

Tickets are £5 with food and a licensed bar available at the Lakeside Café. All monies raised on the night goes to the Forest of Marston Vale, helping them care for your local community woodlands and plant more trees. www.marstonvale.org

For the first time in two years, youth organisations are encouraged to attend as they have in the past.

This includes the Lidlington Cadet Force who have been asked to provide Parade Marshal assistance.

All other youth organisations are invited to attend.

Wreaths and wooden crosses are available from John Clarke who can be contacted on 01234 767515.

Quiz Nights back at The Woolpack

Do you love singing?

If you love singing, Elstow Abbey Choir would love you to join them. You can have fun, make friends and enjoy singing in the historic Abbey.

You won’t be asked to audition, nor will you be expected to read music. You don’t even have to worry about the type of voice you have. All you need is a passion for singing, a willingness to learn and a dedication to attend rehearsals.

Choir practice is on Friday evenings at 7pm.

Want to know more? Email Stanley at music@elstow-abbey.org.uk or call 01234 261477. www.elstow-abbey.org.uk

Remembrance Sunday in Marston Morteyne Following a relaxation in COVID safety measures and consultation between the Parish Council and local representatives of the Royal British Legion, there will be some changes to the Remembrance Sunday format on Sunday 14 November.

This year, the acknowledgement of Remembrance will be held at The War Memorial on Bedford Road, commencing at 10.30am and followed by a service at St Mary’s Church at 11.30am.

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Round up your brainy friends and head to Wilstead for Quiz Night at The Woolpack, a traditional family-run pub in the heart of the village. The weekly quizzes take place every Wednesday at 7pm with teams of up to 6, £2 entry per person and the winners take all. You can test your festive knowledge with their Christmas Special Quiz on Wednesday 3 December too.

To get you into the Christmas spirit, the team at The Woolpack have also announced their Xmas Party Menu which will be available from 24 November to 24 December. The three-course menu is available for parties of 6 or more at £29 per person and includes vegan and gluten-free options. To book your party, call 01234 742318. www.woolpackpubwilstead.com

Save the Date!

Get ready for lots of fabulous festive fun at Wixams Winter Wonderland which returns for 2021. There will be plenty of stalls for Christmas shopping, a grand raffle, face painting, entertainment and more at the popular event on Saturday 4 December. Further details coming soon!

Remembrance and Armistice Events in Bedford Borough Bedford Borough Council, the Bedford branch of the Royal British Legion and other partners are working together again this year on events to mark Remembrance Day and Armistice Day. While last year these events had to take place on a much smaller scale, due to COVID-19 restrictions, this year they will return to their traditional format with members of the public invited to take part and pay their respects.

Sunday 14 November – Remembrance Day Wreath Laying Ceremony The traditional wreath laying ceremony and marchpast will be held at the War Memorial, Bedford Embankment at 11am. After the wreath laying, the Parade will march down the Embankment, across the High Street and St Paul’s Square, finishing in Harpur Square.

Wreath laying ceremonies are also taking place at the South African Campaign Memorial (outside the

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Swan Hotel), at Elstow Abbey, and in villages across the Borough.

Kempston Town Council have arranged a Remembrance Service at Kempston East Methodist Church on Sunday 14 November at 14.30, followed by a parade to the War Memorial for the silence and the laying of wreaths.

Thursday 11 November – Armistice Day Commemoration and Two-Minute Silence There will be an Armistice Day Commemoration and two-minute silence in Riverside Square, Bedford.

Members of the public are asked to arrive for 10.40am.

The RBL Poppy Shop at 20 Harpur Street will be offering tea and coffee, supplied by Morrisons, to all veterans after the Armistice Service.

While the Council and RBL are planning these more traditional Remembrance and Armistice services this year, they will continue to monitor government advice for mass gatherings to ensure the health and safety of participants, which remains the priority, and update accordingly.

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BedsLife Meets…

Emma Gooden from Herrings Green Activity Farm in Wilstead

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in a small village called Husborne Crawley, just outside of Woburn.

What was your favourite lesson in school?

I had two favourite lessons in school; child care and art.

What was your first job?

My first job was working at Woburn Safari Park. I worked in the leisure area where my sister worked and eventually so did my brother. I spent a lot of years at Woburn, working in the leisure area before joining my dad doing the bird of prey flying displays. I have lots of great memories of being at Woburn

How did Herrings Green Activity Farm come about?

My father has been training and flying birds of prey for over 40 years, it was his hobby before he turned it into a career. Thanks to my dad I have been around birds of prey my whole life, I got my first bird at 9 years old; a Kestrel called Squeak. When I left school I started working for my dad, spent a lot of time working at Woburn Safari park giving the displays, out of the road giving displays at different country shows and events and running experience days. The dream for us was to always open our own bird of prey centre. We moved from Husborne Crawley over 20 years ago to Shuttleworth where we built and opened the bird of prey centre. We were there for 14 years before we then made the move to Herrings Green Farm. I have learnt everything I know from my dad, from training and flying birds of prey to now running the business and although we don’t see eye to eye all of the time and we both think we are right all of the time I really could not be without him. My dad tuned his hobby into this amazing carer and without him we wouldn’t be here now.

How much has your business changed since you first started it?

I have grown up with all kinds of animals in my life and my father used to be a farmer so it was only natural that we should then go on to open a farm as well as a birds of prey centre. Herrings green Farm has come a long way in the last 8 years, we now

have quite a few farm animals including quite a few rare breeds. We are hoping in the next few years to become an accredited rare breed centre. The farm has grown so much, I think we have made it a lot more family friendly, making sure that we have something for all ages.

What is the best piece of business advice you have ever received?

The best piece of business advice I have received would be from my dad: Do one positive thing a day, if you can do that then you have achieved a lot.

If you ever eat out locally where is your favourite place to go?

If we eat out locally we go to our local pubs, I think its important we support other local businesses.

Describe your perfect weekend?

My perfect weekend would be spent with my daughter Lily, my husband Ben and all of my family.

We don’t have to go anywhere or do anything its just about being together.

What is your favourite animal and why?

I don’t have a favourite animal, we have so many at the farm and all of them are special in their own way.

All of the birds and animals have huge characters.

They make us laugh and create memories.

What future plans do you have for Herrings Green?

The future plan for Herrings Green Farm is to become an accredited rare breeds centre, its very important to me that we try and conserve our rare breeds of farm animals. Many of the breeds are now on the watch list so setting up a breeding program is very important. With regards to the birds, I have a shopping list as long as my arm of species I would love to own and fly, one day we may have them all!

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

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

Friendship Link and Action Group – General Helper

Volunteering Opportunities

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

Search for any of this month’s featured roles by adding the name of the organisation into the keyword field on our Simply Connect opportunity search at cvsbeds.org.uk/volunteer

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

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

Cancer Research UK – Committee Members We are seeking committed individuals to take on the exciting role of being part of a committee to organise an annual Relay For Life in Bedfordshire.

Each Relay is an overnight, community-led, nonathletic event where teams set up camp and take it in turns to walk around a track for up to 24 hours to signify that ‘cancer never sleeps’.

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

Search for any of this month’s featured roles by adding the name of the organisation into the keyword field on our Simply Connect opportunity search at cvsbeds.org.uk/volunteer

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

Never Give Up by Bear Grylls Bear Grylls’ sequel to the multi-million copy selling global phenomenon Mud, Sweat and Tears continues to chronicle the global adventurer and presenter’s life and career since stepping onto screen, taking readers along with him on his most famous adventures, sharing personal stories from his favourite expeditions, and capturing his hairiest survival challenges.

He documents valuable lessons he’s learned in the wild, opens up about his most personal challenges and achievements, and celebrates the true value of adventure and the enduring importance of courage, kindness and resilience.

Published by Transworld on October 28th Reflections by Holly Willoughby A heartfelt, perceptive book about finding beauty, inside and out, Holly Willoughby is the UK’s most popular female TV presenter and is best known for her work on This Morning, Dancing on Ice and, formerly, Celebrity Juice.

The book explores the idea of gaining courage, contentment and awareness from within, recognising the beauty that is within all of us and promoting the opportunity to take time to look after ourselves, rather than just others.

“I’m finally at a point in my life where I can see a little more clearly,” Holly says. “Writing is such a personal process and between these pages you will find many

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little pieces of me. I want to share my truths in the hope that maybe they’ll help you too.”

Published by Transworld on October 28th My Life in Dire Straits by John Illsley One of the most iconic and important British pop/rock bands of a generation, Dire Straits cracked America at a time when many consistently struggled to engage with the US audience, in the process building a transatlantic fan following that celebrated beautiful tracks, heartfelt anthems and timeless melodies that stand the test of time some four decades on.

In this revealing tale of life as a founding member of Dire Straits, bassist John Illsley reveals the working man’s clubs to Madison Square Gardens, sharing gigs with wild punk bands to the Live Aid stage at Wembley.

Published by Penguin on November 9th Rebel Homemaker by Drew Barrymore Drew Barrymore has always done things in her own rebellious way – including how she cooks, lives, and finds happiness at home. Drew shares recipes, stories and personal photos that show how you too can live a healthy, delicious, and joyful life in her first lifestyle book Rebel Homemaker.

From cooking to wellness, health and family, this heartfelt book looks to explore slowing down, enjoying the joy of family, as well as investing in future projects, including in oneself.

Published by Cornerstone on November 2nd

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£25

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

For last months answers please turn to P30

Across

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

Name:

Address:

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

Down

1 Hidden ______ – quiet wisdom or insight (6) 2 Move stealthily (5) 3 Learner, cadet (7)

Tel:

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

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

The Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford MK40 3XD

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

GREAT BARFORD CHRISTMAS FAYRE FRIDAY 12TH NOVEMBER 6PM – 9PM Lots of lovely stalls, Father Christmas, face painting and more.

Great Barford Village Hall, Fishers Close, Bedford MK44 3JL

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

WOOTTON CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAYRE SATURDAY 13TH NOVEMBER 12PM – 3PM A beautiful range of stalls for you to get your Christmas shopping underway. The kitchen will be open so grab yourself some cake and have a hot chocolate.

Wootton Village Hall, 5 Church Road Wootton, Bedford MK43 9EU

MONDAY 15TH NOVEMBER MACADAMIA TREES, FOOD SECURITY, CARBON AND CLIMATE CHANGE IN MALAWI Join our friends and the founders of the Neno Macadamia Trust to hear about this fascinating project which uses trees and communities to regenerate landscapes.

MONDAY 29TH NOVEMBER THE MARSTON VALE LINE Stephen Sleight from the Marston Vale Community Rail Partnership explores the importance of the Marston Vale Line to the people of Bedfordshire and beyond...

Talks are approx. 1 hour long, with time for questions. Limited space available, please arrive early to avoid disappointment.

The Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PR Tel 01234 767037 www.marstonvale.org

BEDFORD ARCHITECTURAL, ARCHAEOLOGICAL & LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY Talks on Bedford’s rich history – open to all WEDNESDAY 10TH NOVEMBER starting at 7.30pm ‘The Festival of Britain in Bedfordshire, 1951’ by Stephen Coleman WEDNESDAY 8TH DECEMBEr starting at 7.30pm Quiz – ‘Bedford since 1939’ 16

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

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

The Place, Bragdate Road, Bedford MK40 3DE

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

BEDFORDSHIRE DOWN SYNDROME SUPPORT GROUP CHRISTMAS FAYRE SATURDAY 20TH NOVEMBER 1PM – 4PM Come along with family and friends to buy unique gifts and crafts for Christmas.

Visit Santa, enjoy festive refreshments and hot soup, bottle tombola and much more!

Parkside Community Hall, Woburn Street, Ampthill, MK45 2HX

WOODCARVING CLASSES Would you like to be able to carve like this?

Join our classes on Fridays, 1.00 – 3.30 pm.

Both men and women are welcome. No experience or tools needed.

Only £10 for 2 ½hours plus coffee and biscuits!

In Bedford Model Engineering Society’s Clubhouse on A600 near Haynes Turn.

Great company, good fun, satisfying results.

Contact Barbara Beard 01234 743062 or bar.beard@btinternet.com

WITH YOU WHEN IT MATTERS MOST An independent family business continuing to provide a caring & professional service to Bedford, Kempston & the surrounding villages.

• 24 Hour Personal Service • Pre-Paid Funeral Plans • Private Chapels of Rest

• Green Burials

• Home Arrangements

• Civil Services Available

• Bereavement Listening Service (Free to our families)

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

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

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FARMERS MARKET SATURDAY 20TH NOVEMBER 10AM – 2PM An array of fabulous local food and drink producers bringing their delightfully delicious treats to tempt you with!

Come and support these fantastic local suppliers in the grounds of the Historic Watermill in the heart of Bedfordshire.

Free Admission and Free Parking onsite.

The Olde Watermill, Barton Mill Lane, Barton Le Clay MK45 4RF

FROSTS ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENT THURSDAY 25TH NOVEMBER 2PM TO 8PM Live music, seasonal demonstrations, fantastic present ideas and sparkling inspiration for your home.

Frosts Garden Centre, Sandy Road, Willington MK44 3QP

PAMPER AND CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENING FRIDAY 26TH NOVEMBER 7PM – 10.30PM Treat yourself to an evening of pampering, relaxation and shopping! Find some unusual and thoughtful Christmas gifts then reward yourself with a beauty treatment... or three!

Therapists offer a variety of treatments from top to toe, and local stallholders will be selling a range of gifts and beauty products as well as handmade crafts.

All monies raised on the night is for the Forest of Marston Vale, helping care for your local community woodlands and plant more trees! £5 per person for entry – parking is free for this event. Food and a fully licensed bar will also be available courtesy of the Lakeside Café, for an additional cost on the night.

The Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine MK43 0PR Tel 01234 767037 www.marstonvale.org

GRANGE ACADEMY CHRISTMAS FAYRE SATURDAY 27TH NOVEMBER 12 NOON – 2PM Visit from Santa, Stalls, Tombola, Raffle, Games, Refreshments and lots more.

Adults 50p Children FREE Grange Academy, Halsey Road, Kempston, Bedford MK42 8AU 18

TEA PARTY POETRY AT THE HIGGINS SATURDAY 27TH NOVEMBER 2PM – 4PM, FREE ENTRY Join Satwinder to help improve your feelings of wellbeing and give a voice to your thoughts and emotions through poetry writing, alongside tea and treats. No experience needed to join, but these sessions are suitable for ages 16+.

To book your place, email vicki.blair@bedford.gov.uk or call 01234 276362 The Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford MK40 3XD

FRIENDLY NETTLE CAFÉ HANDMADE CHRISTMAS MARKET SUNDAY 28TH NOVEMBER 11AM – 2PM Lots of beautiful handmade gifts plus loads of fun activities. There will also be mince pies, ginger biscuits, and non-alcoholic mulled wine.

Friendly Nettle Café, 15B Beauvais Square, Shortstown MK42 0GE

PAVENHAM CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAYRE SUNDAY 28TH NOVEMBER 10AM – 3PM Hand-made jewellery, knitted goods, decoupage bottles etc. Tea and coffee available.

Pavenham Village Hall, Bedford Road, Pavenham MK43 7PH

BEDFORD CRAFT MARKET AT ST PAUL’S SQUARE SUNDAY 28TH NOVEMBER 10AM – 3PM Amazing smells, personalised gifts, knitwear, plants, baked goods and much more!

Free parking in council run car parks on Sundays.

St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SQ

BedsLife Magazine cannot be held responsible for any event changes, amends or cancellations. Please ensure to check ahead before attending.

To list an event in our December issue please email christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk by Friday 12th November. Priority will be given to non-profit events.

Yourawar dwi nni ngl ocalt heat r e

Christmas TreeFestival “It’s Panto! ”

St Paul’s Church, Bedford MK40 1SQ

Wednesday 1st to

Saturday 4th December

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30pm Ti cket sandmor ei nf or mat i onat

www. s har nbr ookmi l l t heat r e. co. uk Mi l lRoad,Shar nbr ook,Bedf or d,MK441NP Shar nbr ookMi l lTheat r ei saRegi s t er edChar i t y

10.00am - 5.00pm

Sunday 5th December

12noon - 4.00pm

Admission: £3

Children under 16 free entry

Daily Concerts by

Community Groups

Sponsored by

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PROSTATE CANCER Facts & advice for men over 40 Prostate Cancer did not stop affecting men because of Covid-19.

In fact a recent survey showed that urgent referrals by GPs in England dropped by over 52,000 since March 2020. As a result over 8,600 fewer men in England started treatment for Prostate Cancer (PCa) in 2020.

In 2018 a total of 49,029 men in England were diagnosed with PCa. This is more than ladies diagnosed with breast cancer. In 2017 12,301 men died of the disease which is approximately one every 45 minutes.

An early diagnosis of PCa makes an enormous difference. When the cancer is still in the early stages and hasn’t grown outside the Prostate, treatments like radiotherapy and surgery are very effective.

One in 8 men will get PCa in their lifetime and for Black men it is 1 in 4. It occurs mostly in men over the age of 40.

It is vital to detect PCa at an early stage. There are continual advances in medical science. However, the only readily available detection method currently available is the PSA blood test, which is simple and relatively inexpensive. Many men will have PCa without realising it as they do not have any symptoms.

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This usually is to do with frequency or difficulty in passing urine. If men do have this symptom it may only be due to an enlarged Prostate or that it’s infected.

Further tests will be required to determine if it is PCa. The Beds Prostate Cancer Support Group (BPCSG) has in the past put on PSA test events around Bedfordshire.

However, due to Covid-19 this has had to stop. As an interim measure BPCSG are promoting a PCa home test kit. This can be ordered from BPCSG’s web site www.bpcsg.org.uk. BPCSG pay half the cost of this kit for those men who live in Bedfordshire. Enter the code BEDS50 in the relevant box when registering for the kit to get the 50% discount. The kit is very easy to use as it only requires a simple finger-prick via a small springloaded device.

So, if you are male and over 40 years old, or have a husband, partner or relative eligible please consider having a PSA test. It could save your or their life. Don’t be one more person adding to the 8.600 men fewer men who started treatment for PCa.

Home Counties Loft Ladders, Quality You Can Trust!

These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space.

So many precious items that need to be kept – but where to store it all? That’s where Home Counties Loft Ladders come in.

The company, based locally, offers homeowners the opportunity to maximise their storage space with a loft ladder, 50sqft of boarding and a light - all fully fitted in less than a day from just £355! But it’s not just the affordability of the package that makes Home Counties Loft Ladders stand out, as manager Jamie Oakley explains: ‘Our

watchwords are Quality, Integrity and Value.

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

- that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles.

At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for

every installation we carry out!’

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

Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we say and make sure the house is spotless when we leave, and value in that we offer our services at a price people can afford.

Our business relies on referrals and we get a huge amount of our calls from people who have been referred to us by our existing customers

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

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 your to advocate for your child. If you would like to find out more or become a member please contact us or complete our online membership form by scanning this QR code or using this link : www.bbpcf.co.uk/contact

communications@bbpcf.org.uk

www.bbpcf.co.uk

07943 524553

Autumn Term Events

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

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COP26 – WHAT CAN WE DO? With COP26 – the United Nations Conference on Climate Change – taking place in Glasgow later this month (October 31 – November 12) you’ll be hearing a lot of talk on the news and in the media about how countries plan to tackle climate change.

Climate change is the greatest risk facing us all. The world is currently not on track to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees and – if we continue as we are – temperatures will carry on rising, bringing even more catastrophic flooding, bush fires, extreme weather and destruction of species.

In addition to efforts to transition to clean power and reduce ongoing emissions now is the perfect time to shine a spotlight on one of our key missions and how this can help achieve our climate goals: tree-planting!

Trees have never been a more important ally in helping us to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change. As they grow, they absorb carbon dioxide (CO2), one of the major greenhouse gases that contributes to climate change.

Trees absorb CO2 through their leaves and convert it into energy through a process called photosynthesis. This energy is then used and stored for a long time within the branches, wood and roots of the tree and surrounding soils.

Collectively, the UK’s woodlands remove around 18 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent from the atmosphere each year, and around one billion tonnes are locked up in our forests.

As well as driving down emissions at source, planting new trees can play an important role in supporting the UK’s efforts to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Other natural habitats, such as peatlands, wetlands and grasslands, are also very effective at capturing and storing carbon – so it is really important that we plant trees in the right places, so as not to disturb ecosystems that are already doing a good job in fighting climate change.

As well as planting in the right place, planting the right tree is also vital too. The most effective trees for carbon capture are not always the best trees to plant to benefit our native wildlife, and this must be taken into consideration: since the 1970s, 41 per cent of all UK species have

declined, while 15 per cent of species are said to be threatened with extinction.1 A mixture of native broadleaf trees provide tackles the parallel threat of biodiversity loss by providing much-needed places for wildlife to live, feed and breed in.

At the Forest of Marston Vale we’ve planted over 2 million trees in Bedfordshire already, removing 4,917 tonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere – that’s the same as the emissions from 2,000 family cars!

As well as fighting climate change and supporting biodiversity, tree-planting has a multitude of other benefits for society. Trees and woodlands also help us to be more resilient to the impacts of climate change – some of which we’re already experiencing now.

During heavy rainfall, the presence of trees can help to slow the flow of water entering our rivers, protecting communities downstream from flooding. Trees also provide shade, and have an urban cooling effect – helping to reduce the temperature in cities. Trees also help to prevent erosion from drying arable fields, remove pollution from the air and they improve our own mental health.

Whilst government leaders will spend the COP26 debating the various strategies needed to slash global emissions, for individuals the threat of climate change (and what we can do about it) can often feel overwhelming.

Supporting tree planting, getting involved with planting efforts and even planting your own tree at home is one positive action you can take to do your bit in tackling climate change.

1: The State of Nature report, 2019 25

Protect and Survive No…not the 1970s public information campaign exhorting us to hide under a table in case of nuclear attack. This is far more useful. It’s my public information campaign about protecting tender perennials and taking cuttings to over winter so your plants survive and even multiply. First the protection: to protect tender perennials such as Salvias and Pelargoniums, lift them and bring them into a greenhouse. If you have a heater, set it to the frost setting (around 5C). You can use bubble wrap to insulate the greenhouse for additional heat conservation. If you do this the heater will only need to kick in on extremely cold days and nights.

For tender bulbs and tubers such as dahlias, wait until the foliage has been blackened by the frost, then lift them and place in a box of sand in a dry, dark, frostfree location.

Plants like Agapanthus, which are generally happy to be left in the ground with a little protection, are best left undisturbed. Cover the top with a generous quantity of well-rotted compost or bark mulch. This can be removed from around the crown of the plant in spring and will help retain moisture throughout the spring growing season.

November is the start of the bare root planting season. Plant roses, hedging and trees, and it’s also

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

SO, WHAT ELSE CAN WE DO IN NOVEMBER? Ideally your spring bulbs should already be planted but if you haven’t done it yet, just put some in this month. November is actually the perfect month to plant tulip bulbs are because the less time they are in the ground the less likelihood of them developing a virus called tulip fire blight.

• Plant garlic cloves if you have an area with free draining soil.

• Dig over the vegetable plot, leaving clods to break down over winter • Rake the fallen leaves regularly from lawn areas because if you leave them they deprive the lawn of light.

• Bring in garden tools for the winter. Clean, sharpen, and oil them first.

• Keep removing weeds. It is easier to see them once garden plants have died back. November is a great time to get rid of persistent perennial weeds

Guttering Problems?

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

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Useful

Resources ACCESS BEDFORD Works with the D/deaf and hard of hearing community to make Bedford Borough more accessible.

They also have a facebook social group for Deaf people living in and around Bedford Tel 07376 262 873 www.accessbedford.org.uk

BEDFORDSHIRE RURAL COMMUNITIES CHARITY Delivering a wide range of rural development and community projects.

Tel 01234 838771 www.bedsrcc.org.uk

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

Tel 01234 880400 www.bedfordshirewellbeingservice.nhs.uk

BEDFORD WOMEN’S CENTRE

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

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

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

Tel 01234 316801 www.bedfordwomenscentre.org.uk

AGE UK BEDFORDSHIRE

AUTISM BEDFORDSHIRE Independent charity dedicated to improving the lives of autistic people and their families across Bedfordshire..

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

BOLD Supporting and advocating for people with a learning disability and challenging behaviours.

Tel 01234 352899 www.bo4ld.org.uk

CARERS IN BEDFORDSHIRE Local charity helping unpaid carers of all ages and backgrounds to cope with the stresses of their caring role.

Tel 0300 111 1919 www.carersinbeds.org.uk

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

BEDFORD DAYCARE HOSPICE Provides individualised holistic care to patients suffering with a life-limiting condition from the point of diagnosis through treatment to remission or palliative care.

Tel 01234 352 015 www.bedforddaycarehospice.org.uk

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

CITIZENS ADVICE

MINDBLMK

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

Supporting positive mental health and wellbeing.

Tel 01234 867944 www.bedfordcab.org.uk COMMUNITY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE (CVS ) Support for voluntary and community sector organisations in Bedfordshire.

Tel 01234 354366 www.cvsbeds.org.uk

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

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS THERAPY CENTRE BEDS & NORTHANTS Provides help, support and therapy for those with MS in Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire.

Tel 01234 325781 www.mscentrebedsandnorthants.com

FACES (FAMILY AND CHILDREN’S EARLYHELP SERVICES) local independent charity offering practical and emotional support to families under stress.

01234 270601 www.facesbedford.org

FAMILIES FIRST BEDFORDSHIRE 01234 341977 www.familiesfirstbedfordshire.org.uk FRIENDS FOR LIFE A local charity working to address the social isolation of residents in Bedford’s care homes Tel 07460 575410 www.friendsforlifebedford.org.uk

OPEN DOOR Charity providing FREE and confidential counselling to young people aged 13 – 25.

Tel 01234 360388 www.bedfordopendoor.org.uk

ROAD VICTIMS TRUST Offers a range of free support services to residents of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire who have been affected by fatal road collisions.

Tel 01234 843345 www.rvtrust.org.uk

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

Tel 07798 762 808

MEN AS VICTIMS Group support is provided for men who have experienced domestic abuse in a safe, therapeutic environment.

This service is for male victims living in Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire or Luton.

Tel 01234 341977 www.bedsdv.org.uk/get-help/men-as-victims/

MENCAP (BEDFORD) A voluntary organisation operating in Bedford and surrounding areas supporting individuals with a learning disability and their families.

Tel 07973 859940 www.bedfordmencap.org.uk

SUE RYDER ST JOHN’S HOSPICE A specialist palliative care and treatment centre providing hospice care for people facing a frightening, lifechanging diagnosis.

Tel 01767 642412 | www.sueryder.org

THE JOBS HUB Provides an all age careers advice and employment support service for people that live in and around Bedford.

Tel 01234 223510 www.bedfordjobshub.co.uk

OCTOBER PRIZE CROSSWORD

Answers

CLOCK SALES & REPAIRS

CLASSIFIEDS

Clock Repairs • Clock Sales Call Michael:

01234 217104 Associate member of the British Horological institute for 25 years

www.bedfordclocks.co.uk OLD CLOCKS WANTED FOR PARTS DANCE LESSONS

GARAGE DOORS

ALMOND GARAGE DOORS LTD ANTIQUE & MODERN FURNITURE REPAIR AND RESTORATION IN BEDFORDSHIRE

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

FURNISHINGS

HAYDN CLARKE Work Insurance, Fire07958 & Flood work TEL:Undertaken 01923 252738 MOBILE: 710979 59 TEL: ELSTOW KEMPSTON, BEDS. MK428HH Collection & Delivery 01923ROAD, 252738 MOBILE: 07958 710979

E-MAIL:828953 HCRESTORATIONS@SKY.COM 01234 info@almondgd.co.uk 59 ELSTOW ROAD, KEMPSTON,WWW.HCRESTORATIONS.CO.UK BEDS. MK428HH Call Haydn on 01234 851 624 or 07958 710 979 E-MAIL: HCRESTORATIONS@SKY.COM WWW.HCRESTORATIONS.CO.UK

hcrestorations@sky.com • www.hcrestorations.co.uk Unit 1a, College Farm, Oakley, MK43 7RX

GARDENING SERVICES

M&S

Upholstery

Complete Re-upholstery Service

Quality Service

Call now at: 01234 302883 R&M DUCHEMINS Or: 07954161786

• Medal framing and medal mounting.

• Full size andmodern miniature • Regimental gifts, British ● Traditional and Army, RAF, ● 3 pcreplica suites, replacement wing chairs, arm-chairs, recliners, medals.

Royal Navy & Merchant. dining room chairs and stools ● Frame repairs, re-springing, Tel: 01234 268738 Mobile: 07877 242408 and replacement cushion fillings www.duchemins.co.uk ● Domestic and contracted work undertaken ● Free estimates and friendly advice

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 Bedford & Milton Keynes  New Sales & Installations Existing Doors Automated RESTORERS OF ANTIQUE & MODERNFURNITURE. FRENCH POLISHING. French Polishing&•MODERN Kitchen FURNITURE. Worktop Sand & Re-oil RESTORERS OF ANTIQUE FRENCH POLISHING.  Spare Parts HAYDN CLARKE Desk Leathers Supplied & Fitted • On-Site French Polishing

Bedford Daycare Hospice Caring for people with life-limiting illnesses

URGENTLY NEEDED!

Unwanted items in good condition for our shops at:

WE CO AND D LLECT EL FURN IVER ITURE

20 LONDON ROAD, BEDFORD Tel: 01234 481296 211 BEDFORD ROAD, KEMPSTON Tel: 01234 481285

• WARDROBES • DRAWERS • SOFAS • • LADIES FASHION • MENS WEAR • TOYS • • KIDS WEAR • ELECTRICALS • BRIC A BRAC •

SHOP VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Can You Help? If you can support our Hospice by helping at either of our shops, please contact us on the above numbers - Thank You BEDFORD DAYCARE HOSPICE, 3 Linden Road, Bedford MK40 2DD

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