BedsLife Magazine VILLAGE EDITION June 20

FREE JUNE 2020

village edition

YO U R L O C A L C O M M U N I T Y M A G A Z I N E A N D W E B S I T E

INSIDE VE Day 75th Anniversary £25 Prize Crossword Veterinary Hospitals Gardening – Cracks ‘n’ Crevices www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk 12,000 copies

Delivered to Clapham, Milton Ernest, Pavenham, Carlton, Stevington, Oakley, Bromham, Biddenham, Great Denham, Kempston Rural, Kempston, Wootton.

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

CONTENTS

Don’t forget to check out our website www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk for even more local articles and lots of interesting and helpful local information!

LIKE our Facebook page BedsLife Magazine to keep up to date with events, offers and local businesses and services.

FOLLOW us on @bedslife_magazine and @bedsLife

The Missing Piece of Childhood

Local News 4 75th Anniversary VE Day 6 The Missing Piece of Childhood 10 View from Richard Fuller MP 14

Prize Crossword Book Review Acorn House Gardening

Advertising Christa Tel 01234 962929 07827 015170 E: christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

18 20 23 24

Design and Artwork Doug Dawson Creative Ltd www.dougdawson.co.uk

BedsLife Magazine would like to thank all our advertisers for their continued support, without which we would not have a publication.

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.

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.

JULY ISSUE DEADLINE WEDNESDAY 10TH JUNE Carlton & Chellington

Milton Ernest

Pavenham

Oakley

Clapham

Stevington

DO YOU WANT TO PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS LOCALLY?

Bromham Biddenham

MIX AND MATCH TO SUIT YOUR TARGET AREA AND YOUR BUDGET.

Kempston Rural

Bedford

t Grea m ha Den

WE NOW HAVE 3 EDITIONS OF BEDSLIFE MAGAZINE!

Kempston Elstow

FREE

town edition

YO U R L O C A L C O M M U N I T Y M A G A Z I N E A N D W E B S I T E

YO U R L O C A L C O M M U N I T Y M A G A Z I N E A N D W E B S I T E

VE Day 75th Anniversary £25 Prize Crossword

VE Day 75th Anniversary

Veterinary Hospitals

Veterinary Hospitals

£25 Prize Crossword

Gardening – Cracks ‘n’ Crevices

Gardening – Cracks ‘n’ Crevices

Gardening – Cracks ‘n’ Crevices

www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk

www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk

www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk

12,000 copies

Delivered to Putnoe, Brickhill, Goldington, Castle Quarter, Prime Ministers

12,000 copies

Delivered to Clapham, Milton Ernest, Pavenham, Carlton, Stevington, Oakley, Bromham, Biddenham, Great Denham, Kempston Rural, Kempston, Wootton.

10,000 copies

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

ad te ils W

INSIDE

VE Day 75th Anniversary £25 Prize Crossword

Stewartby

on ht t ug ues Ho onq C

INSIDE

Wootton ms ixa W

INSIDE

JUNE 2020

south edition

village edition

YO U R L O C A L C O M M U N I T Y M A G A Z I N E A N D W E B S I T E

FREE

JUNE 2020

M Mo ars re ton tai ne

JUNE 2020

n ow tst or Sh

FREE

For more information call Christa on Tel 07827 015170 or email christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk 3

news COMMUNITY

DON’T BIN IT – DONATE IT If you have things that you no longer want, or need, that can be reused don’t throw them away.

Donate instead and give them a new life.

Due to the coronavirus outbreak, many charities are struggling due to a lack of donations and so a lack of income.

The site is currently open Wednesday-Sunday from 10.30am-4pm. Items accepted include clothing, books, upholstered furniture with a fire label attached, electrical items less than 10 years old in good working order. At the current time, Emmaus is not able to offer their usual collection service.

People wishing to make a donation must book an appointment before visiting, to manage visitor numbers and ensure everyone can social distance while visiting. Visitors without an appointment will be asked to book and return at another day/time. You can book an appointment by calling 01234 720826

Emmaus at Carlton has re-opened for donations.

They provide a home and meaningful work for formerly homeless adults in Bedfordshire.

MORE MATERIALS ACCEPTED AT HWRC The Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) on Barkers Lane started to accept more types of waste to be disposed of.

• Hardcore and rubble – up to 3 items including broken ceramic tiles, bricks, ceramic sanitary ware e.g. sinks/toilets. Soil will not be accepted.

• Plasterboard – up to 3 sheets • Paint This is for household waste only. Commercial waste is not being accepted at this time. This is in addition to the material already being accepted at the HWRC below: • general rubbish (e.g. black lidded bin types of waste) • small items of furniture • garden waste (e.g green lidded bin types of green waste) • recycling (e.g. orange lidded bin types of recycling) • small electrical appliances (e.g. microwaves, kettles, and toasters) 4

Please mention bedslife when responding to adverts

Skips for large pieces of cardboard have also been added, to make it easier for these to be recycled. Please make sure any polystyrene or other packaging is completely removed before recycling cardboard items.

The HWRC is still operating a booking system and you will be asked what you are disposing of when you call for a slot so that you can be directed to the right area on site.

To book a slot please call 01234 718013. The site will be open between 9am and 5pm, 7 days a week.

For more information about visiting the site or how to book a slot, please visit www. bedford.gov.uk/rubbish-recycling-and-waste/ local-recycling-sites/household-wasterecycling-centre/

SERVICES

ai158029125411_Neville Funerals Advert Jan 2020.pdf 1 29/01/2020 09:47:34

C

M

We help you prepare for the choices you have to make.

NEVILLE. Because there is a difference.

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

BEDFORD 48 Roff Avenue MK41 7TE t: 01234 359529 e: bedford@nevillefuneralservice.com www.nevillefuneralservice.com

To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

5

RD E D FO BRICHARD FULLER, YOUR LOCAL MP...

Y R O T C I V S E T A R CELEB IN EUROPE D AY !

By David Fowler (Bedford Tour Guide)

T he announ cement of th e Pea ce had been an ticipated so th at it was not a surprise wh en th e news came at 6pm on Mon d ay 7th May that there would be a 3pm broa d ca st on Tues day by the Prim e Minis ter, M r Winston C h urchill makin g the pea ce of ficial. A s Big B en chimed, the huge crowds that had turned out in St Pau l’s S quare hushed to h ear the nine m inute long speech from Downin g Street .

Everyone st ood to atten tion at the end when th e National A nthem was played, follow ed by the ce remonial sounding of the Cea se Fir e by S cots Guards bugl ers.

VE par Kirkha ty, m Clos e

Comic sports were played on the cricke ground and in t the evening a Victory Ball was held in Th e Arcade, atte nded by abou 4,500 people t .

VE party, Albert St

6

reet

At 9pm King George VI ga ve a 12 minut Buckingham e speech from Palace, which was relayed hundreds as to a crowd of sembled in Ru ssell Park.

Please mention bedslife when responding to adverts

VE party

, Greyfira

rs

Celebrations had started on Monday evening with the public ho uses being fu and a few bo ll nfires, after al l the Blackout was no longer ! Public hous es were also busy on Tues very day at midda y, the main st bedecked with reets flags, bunting and coloured lights and stre et parties all over the Tow the afternoo n in n, with more fireworks, bo some with H nfires, itler’s effig y an d thousands into the even dancing ing.

Every village and town in the County ce with church lebrated bells, thanksgi ving services decorations, , flags and bonfires, firew orks, tea part dancing in th ies and e streets!

VE day, Hitler

effirgy

“

At 9 p m K in g G eo r g e V I ga v e a 1 2 m in u t e s p e e ch f r o m B u ck in gh am Pala c e , wh ich w a s relayed t o a c ro w d o f hun dred s a sse m bled in Ru ssell Pa rk .

“

On Victory D ay and on W ednesday, nu straw stacks merous caught fire in various parts County. The of the Fire Service was called to six fires, belie at least ved to have be en due to vict celebrations. ory Evacuees wer e advised that arrangements were to be m ade for their early return possible. home if As a seven ye ar old, VE Day came as a surprise – I ha d been awar e of the War course, seen of the barrage balloons, hear the bombers d overhead, ev en listened to Doodlebug w a V1 hile shelterin g under the st with my mothe ai rs r. But the fun of rushing ar area, being gi ound the ven fireworks to let off and bonfires on th building e streets was irresistible!

To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

7

SERVICES

8

Please mention bedslife when responding to adverts

SERVICES

BRIDGE ROOFING All aspects of roofing, facias and guttering.

Free quotes All work guaranteed 01234 404080 07542 719971

www.roofingbedford.co.uk

DO YOU DREAM OF A NEW KITCHEN? by simply replacing the doors and worktops Before

•

FROM SIMPLE DOOR REPLACEMENTS TO COMPLETE FITTED KITCHENS

•

FULLY INSTALLED BY LOCAL PROFESSIONALS IN JUST A FEW DAYS

•

CHOOSE FROM A LARGE SELECTION OF DOORS, WORKTOPS AND APPLIANCES

•

84 SHOWROOMS NATIONWIDE

9.7/10 See what our customers have to say

Est. 1999

kit c F Vi he rom sit n m t ou a he r s ke UK ho ov ’s wr er #1 oo ex m pe no rts w .

CALL US NOW FOR A FREE ESTIMATE:

01234 852151 VISIT OUR SHOWROOM: 73 High Street, Kempston, Bedford, MK42 7BT

www.dreamdoors.co.uk

To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

9

THE MISSING PIECE OF

childhood 10 Please mention bedslife when responding to adverts

It seems that due to an enforced lock down and with many families spending far more time together than before, we have turned to nature and the outdoors to help us cope.

Spending more time outside and amidst nature improves physical and mental health, boosts immune systems, builds resilience, confidence, the list goes on.

This increases our connection to the land – where our food comes from and the farmers who produce it. As online stores sell out of seed supplies and supermarkets sell out of flour because we are all reverting to baking and growing, we all feel a little bit more aligned with what we are eating and how it gets to our plate.

With schools set to return from June and the need to create physical distance between children many are starting to look outside for the answer. “ Not an ideal solution” some may say “its just not practical.”

The birds and wildlife that we can encourage into our gardens through bug and bird houses. The fact that we can make treats for them cheaply and easily and the satisfaction that we feel when the first bird sits on a feeder we have made.

But what if this enforced change actually brings MORE benefits and a BETTER Education system than we had before? Delivering more responsible, healthier and confident children with a broader set of skills who have the belief in themselves to cope with that life throws at them?

What if their mental health is improved and because they are getting more exercise in the fresh air, their physical health too?

The joy of seeing a seed emerge as a seedling, that little green shoot of hope, has a new significance in our children’s lives now. They have succeeded in creating a new life and when that plant produces a tomato or a strawberry how much confidence and self esteem will they gain from that?

So by taking learning outside back into schools what kind of benefits could we start to see?

Most of us have now experienced the physical and emotional benefits of spending more time outside, we understand why nature works and how it can help.

Time spent on recreational activities in the fresh air have offered a welcome respite for us all. The chance to run outside, to play in the garden or park or just to breathe some fresh air and feel some of the tension slip away, it’s a release.

However, behind the scenes, there is a far deeper cognitive process taking place here ? What if we are actually starting to feel more connected with the outside? What if we are starting to form an attachment to it?

If the suggestion that spending more time in a place or an environment strengthens our connection to it then it makes sense that we will value it and want to nurture and protect it.

So when our children return to school, if more of their day is spent outside then those links and benefits remain strong. The connection to the outdoors could remain a consistent and strong thread and we could just be starting to raise a generation of children who start to value nature, and the outdoors and who will feel more comfortable and engaged with this space and the benefits that this environment can offer.

So bring it on,…. Take more learning outside and equip the next generation with the missing piece of childhood that is so essential in their ability to cope in life Better lives, better communities, better environments through better education.

Rachael Frossell Founder of wild for life! www.wildforlife.co.uk

To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

11

INSPIRE PERFORMING ARTS Inspire Performing Arts is a performing arts school based in Kempston, Cotton End and Cranfield offering children from aged 3 – 18 years classes in Street Dance, Musical Theatre and Drama. Inspire Performing Arts strives to make classes accessible to all children and give every child the opportunity to perform at a variety of events, including our annual Christmas Show and be celebrated at our Awards Ceremonies. Classes are fun, friendly and in a safe environment whilst learning new skills and making new friends. Since opening in March 2017, there are now over 200 children who attend the weekly classes and take part in the events.

“This company is like no other. It’s like a family and very supportive. My daughter has grown in confidence since she started. Rosie is fantastic with all the children and such an inspiration to all the younger ones to look up too.”

Kate www.inspirepa.co.uk/

Where every child matters Street Dance - Musical Theatre - Drama Kempston Cotton End Cranfield 3 - 18 YRS

Book your FREE TRIAL now! www.inspirepa.co.uk

Contact Rosie on 07305809342 or inspirepa@outlook.com

recommended

pc repair company

Book keeper and Personal Assistant Secretarial, Sales, Invoicing, Diary Social Media Management

www.carolinejane.co.uk

Jan Rymarz – Principal IT Technician / Trainer

Fast PC and Laptop Repairs Clear and Friendly Training Fast and Efficient Service Years of experience and services covering everything!

A few recent customer comments

ICO Reg ZA698205, AML Registered

“Great service” “Trustworthy & reliable” “Efficient & Affordable” “Highly recommended”

100%

Satisfactio

n

Regular Feedback Online

07401 250 118

help@oakleyit.co.uk | www.oakleyit.co.uk 12 Please mention bedslife when responding to adverts

SERVICES

• • • • • •

BUBBLES LAUNDRETTE

Self Service Football Kits Ironing Service Full Service Washes Duvets Collected Commercial & Domestic Laundry

FREE DELIVERY & COLLECTION SERVICE We can pick up from your work place

Call Rachel:

07889 516044

ALL DUVETS

WASHED, DRIED & PACKED

Open 7 days a weekk ONLY £20 – BEST PRICE INTOWN From 7:30am until 9:00pm

Bubbles Laundrette is a family run business, established in the community for 11 years. With roots firmly based in Bedford where the family has lived and worked for over 40 years, they lovingly take care of your laundry and pay great attention to detail. Serving Bedford and the surrounding areas, they provide self-service laundry facilities, a drop-off service wash option (commercial and domestic) and local collection & delivery. Bubbles also offers an ironing service and will collect from your home or your work place.

“Excellent service. Highly recommend” Concetta Elena El-Badri

OAP OFFERS

“The best laundrette in Bedford. It’s always clean and tidy” Iona Rudder

Tel Rachel Chirico 07889516044 19a Elstow Road, Bedford MK42 9NU

19A ELSTOW ROAD, BEDFORD. MK42 9NU

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 get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

13

MP COLUMN

VIEWS FROM RICHARD FULLER, YOUR LOCAL MP...

As countries emerge from the medical emergency caused by COVID19 the focus is changing to how best to enable economies to recover saving businesses, jobs and livelihoods.

As the virus hit, the UK government embarked on the most extensive intervention programmes in our history. Grants, income support, benefit extensions, mortgage and rent holidays, coinvestment programmes and business loans have all played a role in providing security to household incomes and hope for survival to businesses large and small.

Throughout the medical emergency I have spoken and corresponded with hundreds of constituents who while coping with their immediate needs have also had a wary eye on what the future will hold for them after lockdown.

The recovery inevitably sees the withdrawal of these programmes – the annual cost of which has already required increased borrowing by the government in excess of the financial crash in 2007. Many parts of the economy will accept this and find a way to manage, but for those in sectors with continuing restrictions, help must be extended.

This withdrawal will put more pressure on local businesses and jobs. Unemployment in North East

14 Please mention bedslife when responding to adverts

Bedfordshire has already doubled since January and I fear that there will be further job losses with our local reliance on small businesses, aviation and hospitality.

Many politicians will use this time to herald a new beginning, saying that growth has to be greener, fairer, more evenly spread across the country, give more balance to home as well as work. All of these are important debates, but they must not impede the immediate challenge of creating jobs and preserving family incomes.

Government needs to encourage the private sector to do what it does best: innovate, take risks and serve customers profitably. It should prioritise investment in skills and reshape infrastructure expenditures in light of new patterns of demand.

We can all play our part too by responding to the lifting of restrictions with a clear purpose to make the recovery a reality. We cannot have three haircuts instead of one and should not triple our food and alcohol order when restaurants re-open but if our incomes and jobs are secure we each do something to secure a local job, support a local business or help get someone back into work.

The coming months are likely to be tough for the economy and for many families. Let us work hard together to win through.

SERVICES

To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

15

SERVICES

Bromham Painting QP.pdf

1

01/05/2019

BROMHAM PAINTING & DECORATING 28 YEARS EXPERIENCE FULLY INSURED Domestic Commercial Industrial Fire Alarms Fault Finding

C

M

Y

Full Profession Service Fully Insured FREE Quotations Internal & External Work Facia board & guttering cleaning • Laminated floor cleaning • Covid 19 protective screens • 30 years experience • • • • •

CM

ALL STAFF FULLY CRB CHECKED AND QUALIFIED

MY

CY

*NO JOB TOO SMALL*

CMY

TEL: BEDFORD 01234 402653

K

MOBILE: 07760 821221

We only use local trade people as and when required We are based in Bromham and work alongside other Bromham businesses to help keep work in the local community.

50 mile radius covered CONTACT US ON:

EMAIL: INFO@MHALLSELECTRICAL.CO.UK

01234 822651 • 07748 032051

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 16

12:0

WE CAN HELP YOU MOVE TO YOUR DREAM HOME

2, 3, 4 & 5 BEDROOM HOMES AVAILABLE FROM £229,950 A vibrant gated development nestled within the beautiful Conservation Area in the heart of Bedford Excellent transport links via road and rail with only 0.3 miles to Bedford station Perfect for families with local schools within walking distance Fantastic range of local amenities including shops, restaurants, cafés and bars

u thank yo

£10,000 TOWARDS YOUR NEW HOME Are you an essential worker? As a thank you for helping us, we would like to help you by contributing £10,000 towards your new home*

WE ARE AVAILABLE! We are still here ready to help you through your home buying journey. There are plot specific virtual tours available and from 1st June we are offering viewings by appointment only, contact us today to find out more.

2A Warwick Avenue, Bedford, MK40 2EQ

01908 067040

We can help to sell your exisiting home

You could buy with just a 5% deposit

www.storey-homes.co.uk demontfortplace@storey-homes.co.uk *Terms and conditions apply

ÂŁ25

PRIZE CROSSWORD Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this section and send to the address below before Friday 12th June.

Prize Crossword, BedsLife, 17 Foxbrook, Stevington, Bedfordshire MK43 7QY

ACROSS

1 Covered furniture with fabric and padding (11) 9 To make a choice (3) 10 Express the same phrase in another language (9) 11 Seers, forecasters (8) 12 Part of a cowboy boot (4) 14 Track for storing spare trains (6) 16 Capital city of Greece (6) 18 Massive (4)

19 Leave in a will (8) 22 Visiting, being present at. (9) 23 Stain, tint (3) 24 Vigorous polishing or cleaning (5, 6)

DOWN 2

3

Paved outdoor seating area (5) Transcend, perform better than (8)

Name: Address:

18 Please mention bedslife when responding to adverts

Tel:

4 Disorganised, forgetful (6) 5 Requires little effort (4) 6 Typical specimen (7) 7 Pile of rotting plant matter (7,4) 8 Large revolving fairground ride (6,5) 13 Skirmish, grapple (8) 15 Computerised numerical display (7) 17 Observing, watching (6) 20 Assistants, attendants (5) 21 Remove the outer wrapping (4)

SERVICES

ACE CARSLTD

(01234) 26 1234

PRIVATE HIRE EXECUTIVE TRAVEL CARS & MINIBUS NATIONAL SAME DAY COURIER

AIRPORT TRANSFER MEET & GREET COMFORTABLE POLITE & RELIABLE ‘PEACE OF MIND TRANSPORT’

acecarsbedford@yahoo.co.uk

www.acecarsbedford.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 get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

19

BOOK REVIEW

CALL THE MIDWIFE Jennifer Worth

If in lockdown you’ve been re-watching the entire wonderful BBC series Call the Midwife, you might want to take the time to read the books on which it’s based. Jennifer Worth’s bestselling memoirs recall stories of life, birth and death in London’s East End during the 1950’s.

It opens as Jennifer – then fresh-faced young Jenny Lee – arrives at Nonnatus House, a community of nuns who provide midwifery and district nursing for the close-knit families of the dockers of Poplar, and follows her as she lives and learns amongst them.

Jenny is an honest and sympathetic narrator, quick to point out her own failings.

The nuns, from calm, steady Sister Julienne to mischievous Sister Monica Joan are characterised beautifully, and Jenny’s fellow midwives are a memorable bunch. But it is the people of the East End who burst from the pages – from terrified runaways to hardy mothers of four (and even twenty four!), from seedy pimps to rough and ready dockers, all are described so vividly that they practically step out to meet you.

The backdrop is almost a character in itself. As the book progresses, the reader begins to understand something of the history of the area – bombed heavily during the war, it has not recovered by the time Jenny arrives, and many families are caught in limbo, unable to do anything about their appalling living conditions. This element is explored in further detail in the subsequent volumes of the trilogy, particularly in ‘Shadows of the Workhouse’.

And, of course, there are the birth stories. Every birth is different, and the book contains comic, tragic and poignant experiences. Worth balances human interest and medical detail deftly, never talking down to the reader but never baffling them with complex terminology, as she guides us through the emotions as well as the technicalities. For anyone with an interest in birth, midwifery, social history or just a good story, this is a must read.

20 Please mention bedslife when responding to adverts

SERVICES

Bromham Windows & Home Improvements FOR ALL YOUR DECORATING NEEDS...

Internal & External Decorating Plastering Refurbishments Quality Workmanship A friendly and reliable service

www.cjohnsondecorators.co.uk

UPVC Windows & Doors, Conservatories, Fascia, Soffit & Guttering All double glazing repairs including:Broken & misty sealed units, hinges, faulty doors and locks, handles and much more.

For a free no obligation quotation call:-

01234 306662 or 07960 109429

Tel: 01234 960304 Mobile: 07929 181619

Email: bromhamwindows007@gmail.com CJ Advert.indd 1

AromaClean offer a friendly, reliable & honest domestic cleaning service tailored to your needs Police Checked & Fully Insured 13/08/2015 09:24

Taking care of all your home cleaning...

Call 07791 258341 or 07435 633986 or email Donna - aromaclean@mail.com To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

21

T UN O C DIS ER* £25 UCH f Hours VOn Out o tion for

a lta nts. nsu Co ur clieditions o on for ms & Cply r

*Te

ap

IN AN EMERGENCY Acorn House operates an emergency service run by our own permanent team of vets and nurses 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

• This service is run from our own premises (unlike some practices who require you to travel to other premises out of hours).

• We have a dedicated on-call nurse caring for pets who stay at the surgery overnight.

• In case of an out of hours emergency please TELEPHONE 01234 261839.

Please visit our website for further details & pricing

Acorn House Veterinary Hospital Linnet Way, Brickhill, Bedford MK41 7HN

Tel: 01234 261839 www.acornhousevets.com Register online today.

H OW I S A V E T E R I N A RY H O S P I TA L

DIFFERENT TO OTHER VETERINARY PRACTICES?

There are many things to consider when choosing a veterinary practice for your pet. You may be given a personal recommendation, have received a special offer voucher, or have a veterinary practice that is particularly close and convenient for you to visit. However, it is important to realise that not all veterinary practices are the same.

Veterinary Hospitals are the highest level of veterinary practice recognised in the UK.

INDEPENDENT INSPECTION

Veterinary Hospitals are inspected thoroughly and regularly by independent inspectors appointed by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.

BROAD RANGE OF HIGH-QUALITY DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT

Veterinary hospitals must have equipment such as ultrasound machines, endoscopes, dental radiography, and ECG machines that may not be present in general veterinary practices. This means that pets attending a veterinary hospital will have swift access to this equipment without having to travel to a different premises.

HIGH STANDARD OF HOSPITAL BUILDINGS

Veterinary Hospitals are also required to meet strict building standards. For example, hospitals must include a dedicated isolation unit with its own ventilation and drainage system so that pets with infectious diseases can be cared for without putting other patients at risk.

24-HOUR NURSING CARE

Veterinary Hospitals must have veterinary nurses on site 24 hours a day. This means that pets can be cared for at the surgery at any time of the day or night. Other veterinary practices may have to leave patients unattended in the building, or request that sick pets are transported to an overnight facility at the end of the standard working day.

ACORN HOUSE VETERINARY HOSPITAL

Acorn House was the first veterinary hospital to be accredited in Bedford, and is a flagship hospital for the Royal Veterinary College. It employs experienced veterinary surgeons and nurses, many with additional postgraduate qualifications and interests, as staff are attracted by the opportunity to practice veterinary medicine to a high standard in the hospital environment.

23

GARDENING

CRACKS ‘N’ CREVICES

24 Please mention bedslife when responding to adverts

GARDENING

I love a crevice. A little gap between the lawn and the path; a cracked paving slab, or a little hole in a wall. These are tiny pockets where magic can happen.

Does the crack or crevice sit mainly in the sun or the shade? If it’s sunny, you have a choice of plants with silvery or aromatic foliage. If it’s shady, choices will be more limited but there are still plants to suit.

When planting, buy the smallest plants you can and gently strip off most of the compost.

Squeeze them carefully into the crack or hole, water them and top dress with grit unless the crevice is in a vertical surface (because the grit will fall out!). Accept that some plants won’t survive, but if you monitor them and nurture them a little in the first year, watering and pushing a little more compost in if the rain washes any way, then most plants will establish themselves. The most successful time of year to plant cracks and crevices is March and April but don’t restrict yourself, any of these are worth trying.

Dianthus squarrosus

Russian dianthus produces mats of blue-grey leaves and single white flowers with a pretty scent.

Androsace sarmentosa ‘Sherriffii’

This little plant is my go-to because it’s sturdy, establishes easily and is topped with pretty pink rosettes in the spring.

Aubrieta deltoidei

I was always a bit snobby about this plant but when I saw it smothering an ugly cracked concrete wall at my son’s school, I fell in love with it. The purple against the pale grey concrete looked amazing. It can be sheared back after flowering to keep it in check but basically its bomb-proof.

Arenaria alvacariensis

My ten-year-old calls these ’alien blobs’ which doesn’t do them any justice. They are really easy to establish and form an attractive green dome of tight foliage, smothered with small white flowers in late spring.

Thymus serphyllum

Tiny-leaved thymes are great crevice plants, and useful in the kitchen!

Erigeron karvinskianus

sprinkle seeds into crevices and this tiny daisy will grow and then self– seed happily.

It’s particularly good for dry, sunny areas.

Sempervivum

I have had a love affair with houseleeks since my student days. I wedge them into every crack and crevice in my garden. They will settle in and create little colonies almost anywhere you shove them, adding texture and colour. They’re evergreen too. What’s not to love?

Vinca

Periwinkles have the prettiest little flowers, available in white, purples and blues, that actually thrive in shade, so they are perfect for brightening that neglected corner of the patio...the bit with the loose paving stone that rarely gets any sun and always looks a bit drab.

My dad referred to cracks ‘n’ crevices plants as horticultural haberdashery! The tassels, beads and bows of the plant world, that cover the ugly seams and embellish the plain areas. I think that’s a brilliant description of these hardworking little plants.

Happy gardening.

By Rachael Leverton

To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk 25

SERVICES

YOUR LOCAL EXPERT PLUMBING & DRAINAGE SERVICE No call out charges • Pre-fixed price 24/7 • 365 days a year

Call your local plumber today Bedford & Surrounding Areas

Landscaping:

Maintenance:

-F Fencing -P Patios -D Decking -T Turfing -G Gravelling

-Grass Cutting -Hedge Trimming -Garden Clearance -Small Tree Works -Pressure Washing

Professional Service, FREE Quotes, Fully Insured & All Waste Removed.

T: 01234 960690 M: 07889 920435 www.tpigardenservices.co.uk

01234 742900

DR Bedford Bedslife 64x93.indd 1

For All Your Landscaping Needs

07/11/2017 16:45:37

Monday - Friday 07:30 to 17:30 Saturday 08:30 to 12:00 Sunday: Closed

NO MUD | NO MESS | NO MOWING

What if your garden, driveway & pathways could be mud-free, mess-free & mowing-free? From artificial grass to smart resin-bound driveways, with 1000s of happy customers since 1995, you can count on us to transform your outdoor space.

01234 856657

artificialgrassturfsolutions.co.uk

info@artificialgrassturfsolutions.co.uk

Call us today for your free, no-obligation quote

26 Singer Way, Woburn Road Industrial Estate, Kempston, Bedfordshire, MK42 7AE 26 Please mention bedslife when responding to adverts

LWS Ad AW:Layout 1

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

14/5/10

Garden Maintenance

SERVICES 12:26 Page 1

Garden Maintenance

&

Landscaping Specialists

Maintenance: grass cutting • hedge trimming • weed control • clearance • tree work Landscaping: patios • pathways Landscaping: turfing • fencing • gravel patios • pathways turfing • low maintenance gardens fencing • gravel • low maintenance gardens Maintenance: hedge trimming LWS is a well established, grass cutting • weed control family run, trading clearance • tree work standards approved, garden services provider, LWS is a well established, family run, performing everything in the trading standards approved, garden garden, from creation services provider, performing everything in to maintenance. the garden, from creation to maintenance.

Landscaping Specialists

All waste removed All waste removed.

Fully Insured Fully Insured.

Friendly reliable service at affordableFriendly rates reliable service at

affordable rates.

LWSGardens&Landscaping Call Daniel for a free, no obligation quotation or just for advice

01234 823215 07729 573151

WATER IMPERVIOUS LOW MAINTENANCE LONG LASTING NATURAL LOOK ECO-FRIENDLY SMOOTH & SPLINTER FREE

Fully weatherproof.

No painting or treatment required.

High impact resistance.

Aesthetically pleasing.

Fully recyclable.

Safe for all environments.

27 To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk 27

GARDENING

EDEN TREE SPECIALISTS

All aspects of tree and hedge works carried out including pruning, crown reductions, removal and felling, stump grinding and planting Local Family Operated Business ÂŁ10m Public Liability Insurance Courteous and Professional Staff Arboricultural Association Approved Contractors TPO and Conservation Area Applications

01234 960796 www.edentreespecialists.co.uk info@edentreespecialists.co.uk

28 Please mention bedslife when responding to adverts

CLASSIFIEDS

CLOCK SALES & REPAIRS

Clock Repairs • Clock Sales

GARAGE DOORS ALMOND GARAGE DOORS LTD

Call Michael:

 Bedford & Milton Keynes  New Sales & Installations  Existing Doors Automated  Spare Parts

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

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

01234 828953

info@almondgd.co.uk

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

GARDENING SERVICES

DECORATING SERVICES DAVID LOWER DECORATING SERVICES Interior & Exterior Decorating Local – Bedford based Over 40 years experience Competitive Rates Discounts for Senior Citizens

Call 01234 307411 or 07973 470650

FURNISHINGS

M&S

Upholstery

Complete Re-upholstery Service

Quality Service

BOOK YOUR WINTER SERVICE NOW!

Call now at: 01234 302883 Or: 07954161786

● Traditional and modern ● 3 pc suites, wing chairs, arm-chairs, recliners, dining room chairs and stools ● Frame repairs, re-springing, and replacement cushion fillings ● Domestic and contracted work undertaken ● Free estimates and friendly advice

Commercial & Domestic Mowers, all leading brands.

01234 826066 info@whites-online.co.uk WHITE’S Lawnmowers & Garden Machinery College Farm, Oakley, MK43 7RX

To advertise with us please get in touch – christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk 29

HEATING SERVICES

VEHICLE HIRE

T.R.Donnelly

HEATING SERVICES

557766

Local Engineer Specialising in all heating appliances Breakdowns & Installations Fixed Boiler Services £65 Landlord Gas Certs Power Flushing All Plumbing Repairs Carried Out

01234 307 667 | 07967 643 405

USED CAR BUYER

DEAD OR ALIVE

CARS, VANS, 4X4’S WANTED FOR CASH UP TO £5000 PAID DVLA DESTRUCTION CERTIFICATE SUPPLIED COUNCIL LICENSE HOLDER OPEN 7 DAYS BEST PRICES PAID FOR GOOD QUALITY CARS

CALL PAUL 01582 619173 07966 873153 WE WON’T LET YOU DOWN “LOOKING FOR EVERYTHING & ANYTHING”

30 Please mention bedslife when responding to adverts

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

rentxpressltd.co.uk 01234 339008

WINDOWS & DOORS

For all your double and triple glazing requirements

Nuvue Windows & Doors Composite Doors, PVCU Doors & Aluminium Doors PVCU & Aluminium Windows • Conservatories Glass Unit Replacements • Pet flap installations Window & Door repairs

www.nuvuewindowsanddoors.co.uk

enquiries@nuvuewindowsanddoors.co.uk • Tel: 0800 195 0736 / 07542 238 768

The Will Writing Company Mayfair House 11 Lurke Street Bedford MK40 3HZ Tel: 01234 964911

Free Will & Testament The Will Writing Company is celebrating its 22nd Year in business and is offering a free Will & Testament (joint or single) to all readers. If you have been meaning to make a Will, now is your chance to take advantage of this exclusive offer and give you and your loved ones peace of mind. By making a Will, you decide who takes care of your children and who inherits your estate. Storage facility optional.

To take advantage of this offer and book an appointment or for further information please call n the above number between the hours of 9:00am-5:30pm Monday to Friday.

OFFER ENDS 30th June 2020

FREE WILL VOUCHER

This voucher entitles you to a FREE Mirror Will (normal cost £125) or a FREE Single Will (normal cost £85)

Valid until 30th June 2020 The Will Writing Company

Mayfair House, 11 Lurke Street, Bedford, Beds, MK40 3HZ

Tel 01234 964911

Email:enquiries@thewillwritingco.co.uk

Terms and Conditions. Office and telephone appointments available. This voucher can not be exchanged for cash – The voucher must be produced at your appointment.

BIG BATHROOM SALE

Luxury branded products at affordable prices

moc.sdnarbmoorhtabku ta moorwohs

Established in 1980, 50+ displays & free parking Selection of professional bathroom fitters available

18 ST MARTINS WAY, BEDFORD, MK42 0LF

Spoilt for choice? Our expert staff can help you find what’s right for your dream bathroom...

TUE - FRI: 9 - 5 / SAT: 10 - 4

Visit us now!

WWW.QPINTERIORS.CO.UK

TEL: 01234 216720