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Online Mental Health & Wellbeing Hub BedsLife Meets….
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Stevington
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Forest of Marston Vale – Fantastic Fungi
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Awesome Autumn Reads
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Gardening – Tidy Up Time
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Useful Local Resources
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Last months Crossword Answers
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Halloween Fun
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NOVEMBER ISSUE DEADLINE WEDNESDAY 13TH OCTOBER t Grea m ha Den
Volunteer Opportunities
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M Mo ars re ton ta ine
Community News
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Carlton & Chellington
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community n Houghton Conquest pub named one of best in Britain
Spooky happenings in Wilstead
Herring Green Activity Farm in Wilstead have announced a programme of spooktacular events throughout October.
Known as ‘the pub Oscars’, the Great British Pub Awards celebrate the best pubs in the country with hundreds of venues entering the prestigious competition. Following two rounds of rigorous judging, this year’s shortlist has been announced with The Knife & Cleaver named as one of the finalists for the Best Pubs with Rooms award. Set opposite The Church of All Saints in the pretty village of Houghton Conquest, the popular gastropub has nine chic boutique hotel rooms and serves fantastic British food and a selection of wines, cocktails, beers, and real ales. Contenders across all categories will be visited by judges before winners are announced in a livestream awards ceremony. Editor of The Morning Advertiser, which organises the awards, Ed Bedington said: “The tough judging process is always difficult due to the high standard of the pubs that enter. However, those decisions have now been made, and we have a very strong list of finalists that will be in the running to take the title of each of the categories, with one exceptional winner going on to be crowned the overall Great British Pub of the Year.”
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Wizards, witches and warlocks are invited to a Harry Potter magical themed weekend on 9-10 October. With an owl flying display, quiz, critter encounters, fancy dress prizes and more there’s lots of wizardry fun for all. Pumpkin picking takes place at the farm from 16-22 October with lots of family fun including flying displays, tractor trailer rides, barrel rides and a free pumpkin for every paying child to take home and carve. The spooky activities culminate with Halloween fun at the farm’s Centre of Hocus Pocus from 23-31 October. With so many eerie events there’s bound to be something to bring out the goosebumps! www.birdsofpreycentre.co.uk
Moot Hall celebrates 70 years
This year marks the 70th anniversary of Elstow’s Moot Hall restoration and opening as a museum of 17th century life and John Bunyan.
y news To celebrate, a new village sign has been installed on the green with an illustration of Vanity Fayre commissioned from Bedford artist Alasdair Bright. An adapted version of Alasdair’s ‘Pilgrim’ illustration, which is on the Elstow ‘gate’ in Progress Way, is featured on the other side of the sign. There is also a new information board for John Bunyan’s birthplace with content designed by Clive Arnold, Curator of Moot Hall. The idea of the board is to reward those pilgrims who make the short walk (only 600 paces) into the field at ‘Bunyan’s End’ with some information of how everything Bunyan achieved started from the lowly cottage that used to stand on the site.
The fun begins with the festival opening night on Thursday 14 October. Soloists Mark Atkins and Jenny Salmon perform on Friday while Saturday evening brings entertainment from Mark Atkins and the V.I.Peas. The festival closes on Sunday with Kate Pedley (Stewarby’s Postlady) performing in the afternoon and you can grab a bargain with all remaining real ales and ciders at £2 pint. For more details go to www.stewartbyclub.com
Halloween Fun at the Forest
So, this autumn, why not dust off your boots, enjoy a pleasant walk, and pay your respects to Elstow’s world famous author.
October Beer, Cider & Gin Festival
Head to The Forest Centre in Marston Moretaine for lots of half term Halloween fun. Ghoulish garden games and activities take place in the Sensory Garden from 25-28 October with pumpkin bowling and witchy golf. Winnie the Witch also needs help finding her friend before the full moon arrives! Dust off your best fancy-dress costumes and get ready to dance, scream and play lots of party games to celebrate the spookiest time of year at the Halloween Kids’ Disco on 28 and 29 October. If you’re looking for something a little quieter, Creepy-Crawly Crafts takes place on 29 October when you can make your own spooky spider for Halloween.
Stewartby Club’s most popular event of the year takes place from 14-16 October, and everyone is welcome! With a fantastic selection of 12 real ales, 8 ciders and 15 gins plus live music, the annual event is set to be brilliant once again.
Do you have some village news to share? Email jacqui@bedslifemagazine.co.uk Copy deadline for the November issue is 12 October 5
Bedford Borough Launch Online Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub Bedford Borough Council has listened to parents, carers, practitioners and school staff, about how they would like to have improved information on where to access support for mental health and wellbeing. Working together with the Bedford Borough Parent Carer Forum, BLMK CCG, Voluntary Sector, Public Health and CAMHS services the Council has created a dedicated page on the Bedford Borough Local Offer to bring the support and guidance into one easy to navigate space. The page includes; adult mental health support, wellbeing support for teaching staff, and where to signpost young people who may need additional support and guidance. Cllr James Valentine, Portfolio Holder for Children’s Service and Education said, “We have listened to what’s been said and acted accordingly to produce this dedicated page of support and guidance. This collection of resources has had many contributors and reflects a truly multi agency approach to supporting emotional wellbeing of our children & young people and professionals in Bedford Borough. “We want to ensure this page is as user friendly as possible so we would welcome any feedback on it, as well as any ideas on services or resources that should be included.” Visit the Bedford Borough Local offer to view Bedford Borough Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub: https://localoffer.bedford.gov.uk/mentalhealthhub
Stevington 12k Learn French at home
New members are welcome to join French daytime and evening classes on Zoom. Individual are also available. This year’s race is being held on Sunday lessons 19th The Stevington 12k is a very popular race, now in its 40th year, making it one of the longest running events in Bedfordshire.
September at 11am and is open to all comers of 17 years old and upwards and is a great event for club and fun runners alike.
Please see the website or call for details.
The race is England Athletics affiliated and chip timed, and the course takes runners via country roads through the villages of Oakley and Pavenham in an anti-clockwise direction returning to Stevington Village Hall for the finish line.
from 40 – 95 mins with no cut off time. A perfect distance for a PB!
Thea Hughes BA (Hons) MA
The Stevington 12k is managed and run by volunteers from the village as a non-profit event to raise funds for the maintenance and support of the village hall and playing field. This year the race will also be raising funds for the Sue Ryder charity. Advance online entry fees are £20.00 non-UK Athletic or £18.00 for UK Athletic affiliated members. On the day entry is welcome but incurs an additional £4.
www.frenchinbeds.org 07941 869424
The event is family friendly with hot and cold refreshments, a licensed bar, BBQ, children’s playground and plenty of parking. Changing facilities, showers and toilets are available to runners. Trophies will be presented to the 1st Senior Male, 1st Senior Female, 1st Veteran Male, 1st Veteran Female plus 1st Stevington resident. Finishing times range 6
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Please see the website for more details about the event. www.stevington12k.uk
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BedsLife Meets…
Brendan and Bec from The Kiln in Stewartby Where did you both grow up? Brendan is originally from Stewartby and his dad still lives there. I’ve lived in Eversholt for my entire life but my dad also grew up in Stewartby so it’s safe to say we know the village quite well.
How did you meet? Funny story. Our dads worked together many years ago and we used to go on holiday together when we were kids. We lost contact for a few years as we grew up and now here we are, 20 odd years later running a business together…
How did The Kiln come about? We both left our jobs just before Covid hit. We struggled to find work as everyone put the brakes on employing and so we decided to create a little lockdown business to get us through. We have both worked in pubs, hotels and restaurants for our whole careers so we kept to what we know. We started ‘Eversholt Eats’ in which we delivered ‘ready-meal’ style food for people that couldn’t get out or wanted to treat themselves during the pandemic. That gave us the bit of confidence we needed to go alone and that led us to looking for a premises which ended up being what is now known as The Kiln.
What is your most popular item on the menu? Our BBQ pulled pork and Monterey Jack cheese toastie. It’s good! Our brownies are our most popular seller though as people just can’t resist!
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What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever received?
What series are you watching on TV right now?
Just be yourself. We’re admittedly learning as we go but we’re keeping things simple and we’ve got some great people around us giving us support and advice.
We’re not watching any series at the minute. If Liverpool are playing then Brendans watching that. I like anything easy watching, then again I love a good crime documentary.
If you ever eat out locally where is your favourite place to go?
Night In or Night Out?
Our birthday/special treat place is The Plough in Bolnhurst or The Robin Hood in Clifton Reynes. We love trying new places though!
When you cook at home what is your signature dish?
Night in for sure! There’s nothing better than your PJS and dressing gown!
What future plans do you have for The Kiln? We’d love loads of coffee shops dotted around! That’s the dream! But that’s a long way off yet!
There isn’t really a ‘signature dish’ but we love proper home cooked comfort food. Can’t go wrong with pie and mash.
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Bedford Credit Union – Secretary to the Board The secretary is the board member with particular responsibility for ensuring that the governance of this nonprofit co-operative bank which provides fair loans to local people is in good order. This includes circulating agendas, preparing minutes and any formal resoltions for both the monthly board meetings and our AGM. As a full board member, you will also have the opportunity to be involved with the broader operations of the credit union.
Citizens Advice Bedford – Money Advice Assistant Volunteer
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
You will be part of CAB’s dedicated Money Advice Team and Caseworkers. You will speak with clients (face to face and by telephone) to explore and identify their financial problem and you will provide relevant information and guidance to enable them to deal with their situation more effectively. The role requires comprehensive training on Debt and Money and lots of opportunity for professional development.
Putnoe Woods Preschool – Charity Trustee You will be ready to put the Children’s welfare at the hear of every decision as you join an energetic, dynamic and friendly team at the pre school. You are especially welcome if you have knowledge or experience of early years education. The role is to assist in overseeing the work of the preschool manager and business manager, offering advice and support from an ‘outside’ view.
Mind BLMK – Crisis Cafe Volunteer Be part of a team of volunteers in Luton, Bedford or Milton Keynes. The crisis service runs every day between 5 and 11 pm to support those with mental health crisis outside of hospital. You will get the opportunity to learn the intricate process of deescalating crisis and promoting recovery pathways for individuals.
RNIB – Occasional Helper with Sighted Guiding You will be at the heart of supporting blind and partially sighted people in your area, offering sighted guiding and practical help to individuals enabling them to take part in events and supporting them in their volunteering activities. You will also be involved in raining arareness of issues that affect those living with little or no sight, and fundraising. Our new monthly newsletter highlights all our new opportunities as they come onboard, and shares stories and volunteering hints and tips. Subscribe at www.cvsbeds.org.uk/volunteer-newsletter
43 Bromham Road, Bedford Call 01234 354 366 or Email: volunteering@cvsbeds.org.uk www.cvsbeds.org.uk 10
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Halloween Fun There is loads going on at Herrings Green Activity Farm in Wilstead this Halloween. All Wizards, Witches and Warlocks are invited to a magical Harry Potter themed weekend on Saturday 9th October and Sunday 10th October. There will be a magical Owl flying display, Harry Potter Quiz and you can even dress up as a Wizard or Witch with a prize for the best costume! You can also go Pumpkin Picking from October 16th – 22nd and take part in the themed activities, feed the animals and have a go at flying an owl! You can finish off with a visit to the Centre of Hocus Pocus from Saturday October 23rd to Sunday 31st October where there will be Creepy Critter Encounters, Halloween Crafts and much more! Herrings Green Activity Farm & Birds of Prey Centre, Herrings Green Farm , Cotton End Road, Wilstead, Bedfordshire, MK45 3DT www.birdsofpreycentre.co.uk
Jordans Mill in Biggleswade will be running a Toil and Trouble Halloween Activity Trail every Thursday to Sunday from the 21st to the 31st October. Creep around Jordans Mill, if you dare, and watch Halloween come alive with ten 3D spooky posters. Find the hidden potion ingredients and complete the spell, and hand back in at the Mill Shop for a prize! Trail sheets are £2.50. www.jordansmill.com
The Forest of Marston Vale will be hosting Halloween Garden Games & Activities from Monday 25th October to Friday 29th October at the Forest Centre From Monday 25th – Thursday 28th you can go along and play ghoulish garden games and activities from 10am till 3pm! There will be 5 games to play including pumpkin bowling and witchy golf PLUS explore the Sensory Garden and help Winnie the Witch find her friend before the full moon strikes! £5 per child. On Thursday 28th and Friday 29th October from 5pm till 8.30pm your little ghouls can dust off their best fancy dress costumes and get ready to dance, scream and play lots of party games. Price includes kids’ meal and squash. Parental supervision is required. Suitable for ages 3+. £9 per child. There will also be Halloween Creepy-Crawley Crafts on Friday from 10am till 4pm where you can make your own spooky spider. £3 per child. Pre-booking for all activities is essential. The Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine, Bedford MK43 0PR www.marstonvale.org/events
Don’t Get Locked In escape rooms in Bedford will be taken over by Ghosts and Ghouls for some Halloween scares in ‘Extortion’ and ‘The Secret Hut’. ‘Extortion’ is set in an apartment in Bedford, a game with a creepy twist you and your friends are invited to come play between Friday 1st and Sunday 31st October. The Secret Hut, a 1940’s themed room will also be turned into a dark and creepy game. Beware: These games are extremely immersive and do include jump scares and live actors. Think You Are Brave Enough To Escape? 23-27 Allhallows, Bedford, Bedfordshire MK40 1LN www.dontgetlockedin.com
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HALLOWEEN Monday25t h-Thur sday28t hOct ober J oi nusi nours pookySens or yGar denf orghoul i s h gamesandact i vi t i es !£5perchi l d Fr i day29t hOct ober Getcr af t ymaki ngyourowncr eepycr awl y Hal l oweendecor at i ons !£3perchi l d
s g/event or e. onval st tmar i s i v k o o b o t d n a o f n i e r mo r Fo T heF or es tCent r e Mi l l enni um Count r yPar k Mar s t onMor et ai ne,MK430PR To advertise with us, please contact christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk
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Home Counties Loft Ladders, Quality You Can Trust! These days most homeowners suffer from a lack of storage space. So many precious items that need to be kept – but where to store it all? That’s where Home Counties Loft Ladders come in. The company, based locally, offers homeowners the opportunity to maximise their storage space with a loft ladder, 50sqft of boarding and a light - all fully fitted in less than a day from just £355! But it’s not just the affordability of the package that makes Home Counties Loft Ladders stand out, as manager Jamie Oakley explains: ‘Our
watchwords are Quality, Integrity and Value. Quality in the materials that we use for all our installations and the fact that all our loft packages are fitted by time served tradesmen, so our customers are assured of the best job.
- that simply wouldn’t happen if we didn’t adhere to our overriding principles. At the end of the day the old adage that happy customers lead to more happy customers is true and we work hard to make that happen for
every installation we carry out!’ So, if you want to make use of your loft space, call Jamie free on 0808 301 9559 and he’ll be happy to pop round and give you a no obligation quote so you too can make use of your loft!
Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we say and make sure the house is spotless when we leave, and value in that we offer our services at a price people can afford. Our business relies on referrals and we get a huge amount of our calls from people who have been referred to us by our existing customers
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What’sOn
AUTUMN FAIR Sunday 3rd October 11am- 3pm Come and Meet the Ponies. Refreshments and stalls. Something for Everyone Elisabeth Curtis Centre- Riding for the Disabled, Chestnut Ave, Bromham MK43 8HP BEDFORD FLORAL ART SOCIETY, Tuesday 5th October 7.30pm present a floral arrangement demonstration by Mark Entwistle entitled “The Secret Life of Colour” Visitors welcome £12 Addison Centre, Bedford Road, Kempston MK42 8PN www.bedfordfloralartsociety.co.uk 43RD BEDFORD BEER AND CIDER FESTIVAL Wednesday 6th October – Saturday 9th October 80 Real ales, 40 real ciders and perries will be available in the main hall. Craft and International beers available also. Mead and Wine will be making a return. Hot and cold food will be available upstairs. Opening Times: Wed: 4pm – 11pm, Thur-Fri: 12pm – 11pm, Sat: 12pm – 10:30pm Admission Fees: Before 4pm (All days): £2 After 4pm: Wed: £3 Thur: £4 Fri: £6 Sat: £3 CAMRA members (with valid membership cards): Free! Join CAMRA here: https://camra.org.uk/join/ membership-rates/ *We cannot accept advanced bookings* Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square, MK401SL
MILTON KEYNES NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION Thursday 7th October 2pm – 4pm The talk will be the postponed talk by David Squibb on Malta. £2 for members of the MKNTA and £4 for non-members. The venue is a well ventilated, light and airy place, hand sanitation facilities are provided and the use of face masks is a personal choice. Oak Tree Centre, Wallinger Drive, Shenley Brook End, Milton Keynes MK5 7GZ BROMHAM VILLAGE CRAFT & GIFT FAIR Saturday 9th October 1pm-4pm Come along and find that perfect gift for your loved ones. There will be a host of traders offering all sorts of gifts from handmade
jewellery to flowers and more, get a gift for a loved one or treat yourself. Bromham Village Hall, Village Road, Bromham MK43 8JP
WALK TO REMEMBER Sunday 10th October 9.30am Join with family and friends and walk 5k along the beautiful Bedford embankment and through Russell Park. You will have the opportunity to place a dedication on route in memory of loved ones. Your entry fee includes a Walk to Remember t-shirt, medal, hints and tips to maximise your fundraising and of course, a special day out – all in support of Sue Ryder’s local palliative and bereavement care. Join today: sueryder.org/stjohnswalk ST PAUL’S TUESDAY LUNCHTIME CONCERTS & RECITALS Tuesday 12th October 1.00pm. Lottie Bagnall vocal : A mixed recital by leading local soprano Tuesday 26th October 1.00pm. Joanna Reveley flute and Justin Waters piano Entry is free with retiring collection. St Paul’s church, St Paul’s Sq, Bedford, MK40 1SQ Further details at www.stpaulschurchbedford.org.uk/ Tel 01234 340163 BEDFORD ARCHITECTURAL, ARCHAEOLOGICAL & LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY Talks on Bedford’s rich history – open to all Wednesday 13th October starting at 7.30pm ‘An illustrated history of Bedford from King Offa to Queen Victoria’ by Bob Ricketts 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’ 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: Due to COVID-19 event information is being updated frequently and events may be cancelled or postponed. Please ensure you check ahead before visiting any event listed.
Start your own journey Open Day of discovery
06 November 2021
Open Day 06 November 2021
www.bedmod.co.uk www.bedmod.co.uk Beds Life - 148 x 107.indd 1
06/09/2021 13:40:40
Ageing Well Festival and Exhibition Wednesday 13th October 2021 Bedford Corn Exchange, 10am to 2pm
EVERYBODY WELCOME Free Information, Advice, and help on a wide range of topics including care, housing, money benefits, leisure and many more. The Mayor of Bedford will be holding a clinic to meet and chat with attendees. Refreshments served in the Howard Room accompanied by mindfulness music, hand massage and Age UK Bedfordshire offers. For more details contact Jo on 01234 360510 or Email - enquiries@ageukbedfordshire.org.uk
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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 15th October Prize Crossword, BedsLife, 17 Foxbrook, Stevington, Bedfordshire MK43 7QY Last Months Crossword Winner – David Abrahams, Elstow
For last months answers please turn to P30
Across
1 Cure, restore (4) 3 Despite, notwithstanding (8) 9 Theft, burglary (7) 10 Lizard with sticky feet! (5) 11 Fall heavily (coll.) (4,1,7) 13 Bulging belly (6) 15 Crackpot, oddball (6) 17 Fungal disease of the toes (8,4) 20 Hard outer layer (5)
Name:
Address:
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21 Unblemished (7) 22 Discuss yet again (8) 23 Cut (4)
Down
1 Printout (4,4) 2 Scrapbook particularly for photos (5) 4 Tiers (6) 5 Intense strain or tension (4-8)
Tel:
6 Hazy (7) 7 An owl’s cry (4) 8 Does the sums again (12) 12 Pace, stride (8) 14 Lie (7) 16 Necessary, basic (6) 18 Large body of water (5) 19 Defect, disfigurement (4)
The Elisabeth Curtis Centre Riding for the Disabled
AUTUMN FAIR Sunday 3rd October 11am - 3pm The Elisabeth Curtis Centre, Chestnut Avenue, Bromham MK43 8HP
Come and Meet The Ponies Refreshments, Tombola, Hand-Made Jewellery, Books and more
Charity Number : 1137217
Welcome to ProFlite UK, the home of professional flight simulation, where you can enjoy a truly unique and exciting experience Located in the Bedford area, we are unique, being the only such facility operating an Airbus simulator in the region. Launching in early August, we are open to professional pilots as well as enthusiasts, so realism is guaranteed. Each booking of 60 minutes or more includes a 30-minute pre-flight briefing followed by a full session at the controls of your choice (min 30 mins/max 4 hours). A short de-brief will conclude this very special experience. You can even share the time at the controls with a friend or family member. For information on price and availability, please visit www.pro-flite.com. Alternatively, you can email us at contact@pro-flite.com or call on 01234 218320. Birthday and special occasion bookings are welcome (max 3 people). 21
FANTASTIC FUN Fungi are everywhere: on trees and plants, in the soil, in food, drink, medicine … even on our bodies! They do not contain chlorophyll, so are neither plant nor animal but are classed as a separate kingdom. With no chlorophyll they cannot make their own food, so take their nutrition from their surroundings. This quality makes them instrumental in nature’s decomposition and recycling processes, and has resulted in the evolution of a remarkable and mutually beneficial relationship with trees and other plants. Fungi exist as thread-like structures called ‘hyphae’ which are too small to be 22
seen. These hyphae grow and mesh together, forming a thread or mat called ‘mycelium’ that is visible to the naked eye. Mycelia often grow underground but can also thrive in other places such as rotting tree trunks. Mycelia are generally white and look like the soft strands of a cotton wall ball. You can sometimes see mycelia if you look closely at healthy soil or well-rotted compost. Mycelia are of vital importance to soil. As they spread, enzymes are released from the hyphae which break down adjacent organic material and enable the fungus to absorb the resulting nutrients. This is
a major contribution to the recycling process. By breaking down organic matter, mycelium helps create new and fertile soil. Mycelia in the soil also help to remove toxins, help plants to absorb nutrients and provide food for insects and invertebrates. Research has shown that without fungi, plants grow far less well – its presence is really crucial to sustaining life! Some fungi can be harmful to people through poisoning or infections and some can damage plants, but overall they have a crucial and beneficial effect on the environment.
– they are the fruiting bodies – a bit like an apple being a small part of a tree. There are many different shapes and sizes of fruiting bodies as well as the traditional mushroom, and while some are edible, many are poisonous, so you need to be confident about your ID skills before you get the cooking pot out!
UNGI Many trees will not grow well, if at all, without their partner fungus. Certain trees have a symbiotic relationship with particular fungi species which is mutually beneficial for both. Hyphae from mycorrhizal fungi grow around, and in some cases, penetrate the fine roots of trees and are able to transfer nutrients and water to and from them. In return, the fungi can take about 20 per cent of the sugars produced by the tree. This relationship between fungi and trees can help with identification.
Fungi grow all year round but are most plentiful from September to November. If you’re heading out on an autumn or winter walk in the Forest of Marston Vale or anywhere in Bedfordshire, keep your eyes open for wild fungi growing in fields, on the forest floor and on tree bark. Here are a few species you might encounter while exploring: Common puffball: Widespread in woodlands and on pastures, this creamy white, pear-shaped fungus is covered in tiny spines which fall off as it matures. As it ages, the fungus turns brown and a
small opening is revealed on the top, from which the spores are released when the fungus is touched. Fly agaric: The quintessential mushroom with a red cap speckled with white scales. Usually found under birch in late summer or early autumn, but occasionally with pine or spruce. Despite its attractive appearance, it is a dangerously poisonous mushroom. Beefsteak fungus: This aptlynamed fungus resembles a hunk of raw meat and can be found growing on the bark of oak trees. Although edible, it is reportedly rather bitter in flavour. Moist and sticky to the touch, this fungus can cause rot in oak so is not always a welcome guest! Shaggy Inkcap: Found in late summer and autumn in lawns, pastures and grassy roadside verges. The cap is elongated and covered in white shaggy scales. As it matures, the edge of the cap curls up, dripping a black inky liquid.
The mushrooms that we associate with the word ‘fungus’ are actually just a small part of the whole fungus 23
Awesome Autumn Reads coming your way A changing season and some hearty book options on their way, this month we’ve focused on the best non-fiction reads that will be filling the shelves.
The Squash and Pumpkin Cookbook by Heather Thomas Over 50 delicious wholesome and healthy recipes using your favourite autumnal fruits and vegetables, presented by highly regarded health and cookery writer and editor Heather Thomas, who has worked with many of the UK’s top chefs. This cookbook will carry you through the colder months with nutritious homely and comforting recipes to suit every taste. Published by Ebury Press on October 14th What Do Men Want? by Nina Power Writer, philosopher and regular contributor to The Telegraph and The Spectator, Nina Power seeks to examine just what has happened to the brand of masculinity that this country used to rely on. She speculates that while men still rule the world, masculinity is in crisis, and ponders over how men and women can continue to live together in a society where capitalism and consumerism has replaced the values – family, religion, service, and honour – that used to give our lives meaning? It’s an interesting read, but one that will still inflame those who believe a tome on the issues of men should only be written by the male species. Published by Penguin on October 14th 24
Britain’s Best Political Cartoons by Tim Benson With 2021 turning out to be another extraordinary year, from Covid crises and vaccine victories to lockdown learning, haddock havoc and Capitol coups. But then, it has also been a very familiar story of Brexit blunders and Trumpian tantrums. The nation’s greatest cartoonists have recorded it all with searing wit and astonishing creativity, bringing much-needed humour to the chaos. This cartoon companion features the work of Steve Bell, Peter Brookes, Nicola Jennings, and many more of the nation’s finest cartoonists. Published by Cornerstone on October 28th Honestly – My Story by Sheridan Smith BAFTA and Olivier Award-winning TV and West End star, top-10 recording artist and sell-out live performer, Sheridan Smith OBE is the latest to have been swayed by a publisher’s pre-Christmas autobiography pay-cheque. While these books are usually forgotten no sooner than they are read, Sheridan does at least bring reallife warmth and charisma to the pages of this 320-page tome that’s packed with showbiz adventure, funny and warm, but dark times and heartbreak too. From The Royle Family, Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps to Gavin and Stacey, The C Word, Cilla and Moorside, through to Little Shop of Horrors and Legally Blonde on-stage, there are a world of memories that we can all share and enjoy. Published by Penguin on October 14th
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Tidy up Time
By October the garden can look a little tired: perennials collapse, leaves die back, and there’s debris everywhere. It can only mean one thing, clean up time. Cut Peonies, Leucanthemum, Nepeta, Delphiniums, Hardy Geraniums, and Phlox back to ground level, but leave anything with ornamental seed heads such as poppies, Alliums, and grasses. When the first frosts hit these plants will gain a new lease of life and add some sparkly architectural beauty to the garden. Leave more delicate perennials such as Penstemons with the top growth in place to provide some winter protection. You can cut them back in the spring just before new growth occurs. Herbaceous perennials can be divided now and moved around to fill gaps in the border. Perennials can become congested and tired, and flower less as they age. Dig up the clump and break it up with a sharp spade, selecting the best, newer chunks from the outside to replant. The dying centre of the plant
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can be composted. Most plants need to be divided every three to five years but some more vigorous varieties like Achillea require it more often and others. The exception is Peonies, which hate any kind of disturbance. Leave them alone. Once the borders are cleared and plants have been relocated, it’s time to get rid of any weeds, which have flourished in the autumn sunshine. Then you can mulch using compost or leaf mould. Mulching helps to protect the more tender plants while improving the structure of the soil and generally making things look neater. Make a layer around 3-4cms deep but don’t cover the centre crown of any plants.
TYPES OF ORGANIC MULCH Compost Bark Grass cuttings Composted manure Newspaper Shredded Leaves Straw
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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
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