BedsLife Magazine August 2022 by BedsLife Magazine

AUGUST

2022

inside

The Kingfisher Pub & Rooms Coming Soon

Bedfordshire Walking Festival Summer Reading Challenge

£25 Prize Crossword

37,000 copies Delivered to selected areas of Bedford and North Beds Villages

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watchwords are Quality, Integrity and Value. Quality in the materials that we use for all our installations and the fact that all our loft packages tradesmen, so our customers are assured of the best job. Integrity in that we will turn up at the time we say and make sure the house is spotless when we leave, and value in that we offer our services at a price people can afford.

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AUGUST

Contents

2022

Council News About Town with Love Bedford Richard Fuller MP Mohammad Yasin MP In the Stix Volunteer Opportunities Martin Lewis Books Prize Crossword The Kingfisher LydEats Food – The Foresters Arms Clubs & Groups Bedfordshire Walking Festival Summer Reading Challenge What’s On Two Oaks Pony Sanctuary Milky’s Music Matters Bedford Town FC Bedford Rugby Club Acorn House Pets Column Forest of Marston Vale – Fascinating Reptiles What Your Flowers Say About You Gardening Advertiser Index Last Months Crossword Answers

4 6&7 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32 34 38 44 45 46 50 54 56 58 62

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 ADVERTISING

ugust is traditionally the month when we try to slow things down a little, and although our modern pace of life means that’s not always inside possible, it still feels like this month is a little bit unique – at least to us! The days are long and warm (if sometimes wet!) and everyone seems to be taking things at a slightly less frantic pace than normal.

The King fishe Room s Com r Pub & ing Soon Bedf ords hire Walk ing Fest ival Sum mer Read ing Cha lleng e £25 Prize Cros swor d

37,000 copie

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Plus of course we have a final Bank Holiday to enjoy in England, Wales and Northern Ireland before Christmas, which prompted us to read up a little on the history of our Late Summer Bank Holiday. We discovered that it was initially introduced in 1871 as a way to give us all a chance to make the most of the summer, and for bank employees in particular to attend cricket matches! It didn’t always fall on the last Monday of the month – up until 1971 it always took place on the first Monday of August. It was moved as it clashed with the traditional two week shut down that many companies utilised at that time. This month instead of being chained to our desks every day we’re determined to make the most of our summer and get out and about more with the family. On the agenda we have picnics, open air cinemas, long walks in the countryside, and plenty of ice cream! So whether August means taking a break from work or continuing life as normal, we hope you find time to relax with friends and loved ones. Until next month,

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

Christa & The BedsLife Team

DESIGN AND ARTWORK

www.dougdawson.co.uk DISCLAIMER

All adverts and editorial are printed in good faith, however, BedsLife Ltd can not take any responsibility for the content of the adverts, the services provided by the advertisers or any statements given in the editorial. No part of the publication may be reproduced or stored without the express permission of the publisher.

d areas

of Bedford and www.bed slife North Beds Village s mag azin e.co .uk

SEPTEMBER ISSUE DEADLINE WEDNESDAY 10TH AUGUST

councilnews council Have Your Say on Review of Polling Districts and Polling Places We’re asking local residents to come forward and share their views on a review of polling districts and polling places in the Borough. The Local Government Boundary Commission for England completed an Electoral Review of Bedford Borough and published the outcome for 28 wards, which is an increase of one ward, and 46 councillors, which is an increase of six councillors. As a result, of the new ward arrangement, the Council must undertake a full review of all polling districts and polling places for the new wards to ensure that all electors have accessible and convenient facilities to vote from.

This will affect the practicalities of how and where residents vote, so it’s vital that we are able to understand any issues or concerns that people have about these proposals before they are implemented for next May’s local and Mayoral elections. You can have your say online or by post. Once the consultation is finished, the council will publish final recommendations, which will show the new polling districts and polling stations for future elections. The consultation is open until 10 August 2022. Have your say on our website www.bedford.gov.uk/news/Latest-News/202207-07-have-your-say-on-review-of-pollingdistricts-and-p/

Bedford Borough Council Issues Nearly 500 Tickets for Illegal Parking Outside Schools Bedford Borough Council Parking Patrol has already issued 483 parking fines to people parked illegally outside local schools since they started visiting schools during drop off and pick up. Introduced in November 2021 the Parking Patrol vehicle visits schools around the Borough during drop off and pick up times. Fines are issued to parents parked illegally at locations where danger is caused to school children, parents and other pedestrians either on double yellow lines or on the zig-zag keep clear lines. The Council has also installed 63 Parking Buddies across 15 schools so far. These buddies remind drivers to park considerately, and thank those who walk and cycle to school.

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Ne w s

w n o T t u o b A Citizens Advice launches new service in Harpur Centre

On July 5th, the Harpur Centre celebrated the opening of its newest business, with a special visit from Mayor of Bedford, Dave Hodgson. Citizens Advice was welcomed into a new-look, easily accessible and wheelchair friendly unit on the ground floor of the shopping centre, opposite Vision Express. This central location makes it simpler for people to walk in and access consumer advice, help with employment, immigration, debt and benefits issues. The team aims to resolve issues on the spot, and can draw on to support in Romanian, Ukrainian and Polish languages. Citizens Advice is open from 9.30am – 4pm Monday to Friday. For more information visit: bedfordcab.org.uk

HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire presents Queens Award to John Bunyan Community Boat Volunteers

Following the earlier announcement during the Jubilee celebrations, that the John Bunyan Community Boat volunteers have received The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, HM LordLieutenant of Bedfordshire Helen Nellis has officially presented the award crystal and certificate to two representatives of the team. The ceremony was held on Sovereign Quay on Monday 11th July. Founding member Chris Tilney received the crystal and gave a speech, remembering the many highs, occasional lows, and constant learnings of the project. Dawn Bell also spoke, who received the certificate on behalf her father and former Chair of the John Bunyan’s Management Group, Graham Mabbutt, who sadly passed away in June this year. Learning of the award, Graham had commented that the award was “a great recognition of the hard work of our volunteers, who work to run a wonderful boat service for the people of Bedford and surrounding area.” More info: bmkwaterway.org/johnbunyanboat/

Get Ready for Asian Festival with Spectacularts! 28th August

In collaboration with the Bedfordshire Asian Business Association (BABA), Spectacularts will transform the town centre into a celebration of Asian culture. With a huge variety of food and goods stalls and live entertainment, this event welcomes all communities to join the fun! More info: spectacularts.co.uk

To w n to Ce le br at e Double Celebration for The Bedford Swan Hotel The Bedford Swan Hotel has been named this year’s Best Hotel in Bedfordshire by Muddy Stilettos!

General Manager, Dean Thompson, comments, “We are extremely proud to have been further recognised, and go on to win the ‘Best Hotel/Inn’ category in Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire for the Muddy Stilettos awards 2022. With over 765,000 votes cast across the awards this is a huge achievement for myself and the team, and a testament to our hard work and million pound refurbishment. We’d like to thank our loyal customers that took the time out to vote for us and we hope you’ll all join us soon to celebrate!” What’s more, the hotel has just added a new string to its bow, with the addition of a luxurious Thermal Spa with vitality pool, traditional steam room, Finnish sauna and experience showers complete with dousing bucket! The Thermal Spa is the perfect place to spend time with friends relaxing, unwinding and enjoying a couple of hours away from everyday life. Noble Isle toiletries with their captivating scents help to make this Spa visit one to remember. A two-hour session is £25, or combine with traditional afternoon tea for £39. More info and bookings: bedfordswanhotel.co.uk

FatCap Smokehouse and bbtea celebrate 3rd Birthdays in Bedford Town Centre

FatCap Smokehouse, located on Castle Lane, is an unique offering in Bedford’s town centre. The authentic BBQ Smokehouse Restaurant & Bar serves Low & Slow Cooked meats, as well as a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, alongside delicious signature cocktails, and ice-cold American-style beers and milkshakes. They celebrated their birthday milestone in true FatCap style, with bottomless ribs and live music, and you may also have been lucky enough to sample their buns & dogs, at their Smoke Shack at the River Festival. Family-run bbtea has also just reached their 3rd birthday on the High Street, serving their famous Taiwanese ‘bubble tea’. The bubbles, called boba, are juicy ‘pearls’ that burst with flavour as you bite. There are plenty of varieties of boba, as well as flavours of black, green and milk tea to choose from, so you can easily mix and match to make the perfect drink. With dumplings and bubble waffles also on offer, the team at bbtea strive to provide the best boba tea experience in Bedfordshire! FatCap Smokehouse: fatcapsmokehouse.co.uk bbtea: bbtea.co.uk

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

WORDS FROM

Richard Fuller, MP for North East Bedfordshire

Meeting with constituents at events and surgeries across North East Bedfordshire, the rising cost of fuel bills and the weekly grocery shop is frequently on many people’s minds, especially for those, like pensioners, on low and fixed incomes. The end of Covid restrictions across the world and Putin’s murderous invasion of Ukraine resulted in a quadrupling of gas prices and sent oil prices rocketing too. The cost of energy feeds into almost everything else we buy as factories need to be powered and goods needs to be distributed. The invasion of Ukraine has robbed the world of vital supplies of key grains and other foodstuffs. There are real risks of starvation in poorer countries and further increases in the price of the foods we buy must be expected. The government recognises that many households need support to help deal with rising energy bills and is providing a package of support worth £37 billion. This includes the Energy Bills Support Scheme that will credit all domestic electricity customers automatically with a £400 credit on their energy bills from October 2022 onwards. This is a grant, not a loan and will not need to be repaid. This support is in addition to the £150 Council Tax rebate for households in England in Council Tax bands A-D, which many households have already received. More than 8 million households on means tested benefits will also receive a payment of £650 this year, made in two instalments – the first has been sent from July onwards and the second will be provided in the Autumn. And around six million 8

people across the UK who receive disability benefits will be given a one-off payment of £150 from September. Pensioner households that receive the Winter Fuel Payment, will also receive an extra £300 this year to help them cover the rising cost of energy and will be paid on top of any other one-off support a pensioner household is entitled to, for example where they are on pension credit or receive disability benefits. Eligible households currently receive between £200 – £300, so the payment will represent at least double the support for this winter. The Government is also providing an extra £500 million of local support, via the Household Support Fund, which helps those in most need with payments towards the rising cost of food, energy, and water bills. This is administered by local councils and eligibility will be determined by them. While the government cannot control global prices, nor eliminate all the hardship that this burst of inflation will bring, it is showing by its actions that it is committed to helping with the rising bills we all face. A new calculator has also been launched to help understand what financial support people could be eligible for to help with the cost of living. To check, please visit: www.gov.uk/check-benefitsfinancial-support/y

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WORDS FROM

Mohammad Yasin, MP for Bedford and Kempston

This summer will be spent by the Conservative Party choosing our next Prime Minister. That means 0.2% of the population will pick the leader of our country. Almost half of these members are over 65, 71% are male and 97% are white. The next leader will be the fourth in under 6 years – amazing when you consider a term is usually 5 years. Our country has not been stable since the referendum took place in 2016 and we are crying out for strong, stable and honest leadership. I can’t see how anyone who served in the administration of the worst PM in modern times, can provide this. After the divisive nature of the last Government which focussed on stoking emotions around the culture wars rather than improving public services or getting to grips with the myriad of problems facing this country, such as housing, levelling up, and how to look after our ageing population. The nation faces three urgent problems: the cost of living, the NHS backlog and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. But not one Tory leadership candidate has said a word on these and instead are fighting about tax cuts which they all voted for only weeks ago. We need a way to pay for the NHS backlog and to finally come up with a solution to pay for social care in population that is living longer but not necessarily healthier. For months Labour has argued that taxing workers who haven’t had real terms pay rise in years after, after a pandemic and when food and energy costs are soaring is a big mistake. Boris Johnson has left us with the highest inflation in 40 years, the highest taxation in 70 years, the biggest drop in living standards in 65 years, the biggest fall in wages since records began with UK 10

trade performance at its worst levels since records began and with one of the highest death tolls from Covid in the world. The national debt has more than doubled under Conservative rule to 2 trillion pounds and Britain faces more persistent inflation, as well as slower growth, than any other major economy in 2023. Whoever succeeds Johnson must take big decisions on tax and spending that could reduce the risk of a recession but might also add to the inflationary heat in the economy. We must not have another ruinous period of austerity. Apart from bringing our public services to their knees, austerity failed in all its objectives. To inflict such a policy at a time when millions are already unable to make ends meet would be catastrophic. So, while the exit of Johnson ends another episode in one of the most tumultuous periods in modern British political history, it remains to be seen if his successor can calm things down, heal the deep divisions in government and in the country and get the UK back on track. What we really need is a General Election to deliver a new Government to ensure that the next PM is decent, competent and honest with the country – honest about the scale of the economic crisis we are in, one who will confront the reasons we are in it and who will give us a true vision for the future, putting the interests of the country and its people before power and party.

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STIX In the

Carlton pub wins CAMRA’s top award The Fox at Carlton has been crowned North Bedfordshire Pub of the Year in the CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ales) 2022 awards.

The traditional village pub, which offers home cooked food and real ales, is run by Alison who describes herself as the proud owner of a proper village pub.

During the session, Community Heartbeat Trust will demonstrate the use of defibrillators and explain how the equipment works and its benefits to the community in saving precious minutes in the treatment of sudden cardiac arrest. If you would like to attend the event, which is free to residents and their guests, please email clerk@ stevington-pc.gov.uk.

Milton Ernest hosts Summer BBQ Rodeo

A spokesman from North Bedfordshire CAMRA said: “After many years of winning a variety of awards, this year the country free house has come away with the top award. “We are delighted to hand Alison this award, as she is committed to running a fine establishment and always has a selection of interesting beers available.” www.thefoxatcarlton.pub

Defibrillator training in Stevington

Following requests from residents, Stevington Parish Council has arranged a defibrillator training session on Saturday 6 August at 10am in the Village Hall.

Milton Ernest Hall Care Home is holding a huge summer barbecue event on Saturday 6 August from 1pm until 4pm. The big community event, set within the grounds of Milton Ernest Hall, will offer fun for all the family with a bouncy castle, ice cream van, barbecue, entertainment, garden games and more, including a prize for best dressed cowboy or cowgirl.

The BBQ Rodeo is planned for the care home’s residents, their families and friends, all of the staff as well as the local community to enjoy.

Each day will run from 9.30am to 3.30pm at Sharnbrook Mill Theatre and there will be a performance showcase for parents to attend on the Friday at 3pm.

Discover Kathy’s Garden this summer

To enrol, fill in the online form at www. sharnbrookmilltheatre.co.uk/youth/summerschool

During the summer and autumn, Kathy Brown’s Garden at The Manor House in Stevington is bursting with colour and scent. This month, many bees and butterflies have been enjoying the lavender and salvias, the heuchera, valerian, echinops and phlox as well as a myriad of other plants.

Volunteers needed for Bromham events

Kathy and Simon have been lovingly creating their garden over the last 33 years and opening it to the public for the past 26 years. It is well worth visiting every year as it evolves and transforms with each season. The beautiful garden is open every Tuesday until 27 September and also on Saturday 3 September with morning and afternoon sessions when Kathy’s delicious homemade cakes are available to purchase. You can find out more and book a visit at www.kathybrownsgarden.com

Youth Theatre in Sharnbrook Sharnbrook Mill Theatre is running a three-day Summer School for young people from Wednesday 3 to Friday 5 August. The Summer School, which is for ages 8 to 14, covers drama, dance and song and costs £75 per child.

Ever wondered who’s behind the organisation of the annual Bromham Duck Race in June and Bromham Apple Day in October? The answer is… a very cool bunch of village volunteers! Bromham Parish Council is now looking for more volunteers to help with these popular village events. If you have experience in organising events or if you would love to get involved, please get in touch by emailing Julie@bromhamparish.co.uk or calling 01234 828851.

Do you have some village news to share? Email jacqui@bedslifemagazine.co.uk Copy deadline for the September issue is 10 August.

VOLUNTEERING

OPPORTUNITIES

Here is our volunteering pick for August 2022. It gives a flavour of the many opportunities we hold at CVS Bedfordshire from organisations across the area, so do contact us for more opportunities if you can’t see something that appeals to you.

Beyond Detention Caseworker

This role befefits from ongoing training and mentoring to ensure that you are able to give the best possible support to people who have left Yarls Wood Immigration Removal Centre with the right to remain in the UK, as they establish themselves in their new community. You will be giving advice, guidance and emotional support whilst showing empathy and emotional resilience.

HMP Bedford Prison Visitor

You will be supporting Ormiston Families to facilitate prison visits – providing prisoners and their families with a valuable visiting experience. This may involve spending time on the wings with prisoners, supporting Story Book Dad sessions, booking in and welcoming visitors and serving refreshments.

Sight Concern Bedfordshire Low Vision Service - Administration

An opportunity for someone who enjoys administration. You will support the Low Vision Clinic through managing emails, checking invoices and adding information to files and spreadsheets. Join this small friendly team and help them to deliver this important service either in Luton or Bedford.

You can subscribe to our monthly newsletter at www.cvsbeds.org.uk/ volunteer-newsletter for all the latest opportunities and other volunteering related news. Search for and register an interest in all the listed roles above and many more, by adding the name of the organisation into the keyword field on our Simply Connect opportunity search at cvsbeds.org.uk/volunteer. Call us if you need any further information on 01234 354366.

43 Bromham Road, Bedford Call 01234 354 366 or Email: volunteering@cvsbeds.org.uk www.cvsbeds.org.uk 14

Hand Holder for Friends of Moorfields Eye Hospital

A simple gesture such as holding a hand of someone about to go into theatre or having a medical procedure can make such a difference. This is an opportunity to provide emotional support to patients going for surgery such as cataract procedures – giving comfort to anxious patients.

Bedfordshire Great Ouse Valley Environmental Trust Treasurer

You are wanted for your ability to do some year end accounting, give advice on banking, fees, grants and fundraising and your passion for the environment. You might be a student looking for experience with start up charities, someone starting a career in finance, you could be working or retired. Ideally you will also want to join this newly formed trust as a trustee

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Years

SHOP VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

CONSUMER

The Martin Lewis column

MONEY ON MY MIND... He’s the UK’s leading money saving expert – a journalist and presenter who has kept millions of pounds in people’s pockets as well as lifting the lid on the threats and dangers we need to be aware of as consumers. In this month’s column, Martin Lewis looks at how we can repair our credit score. Let’s be honest, the last couple of years haven’t been kind to our finances. The good news is the ability to rescue and repair that credit rating is within our own hands, and with a concerted plan we can get back to where we want to be. And that’s important – having a good credit rating means gaining access to preferential interest rates; it could be the difference between being able to buy a house, or rent a flat, or not; and it also gives us peace of mind

that if an emergency crops up we can lean on financial support. When it comes to improving our credit score, first check your current rating – with the likes of Experian or Equifax – and know what you’re dealing with. When you’ve done that, see about disassociating yourself from others who may be pulling you down with their own chequered credit history – their activity may be negatively impacting yours. Next, get yourself signed up on the electoral roll. It’s a great way for credit agencies to be able to verify who you are and adds a layer of authenticity to any application. Spring cleaning your finances is another really sensible option. Many of us have old credit cards or bank accounts that we don’t use. They may seem harmless on the face of it, but they all represent risk as far as your credit score is concerned. Next, start investing in your credit future. Using a credit card

may seem a peculiar way of improving your credit, but done sensibly it will. And by sensibly, I mean use it for everyday purchases on the specific understanding you’ll clear the balance at the end of each month. Doing this will boost your credit rating and prove to any lender that you can be trusted. Finally, if you can’t afford to clear your full balance at the end of the month, at least pay off more than the minimum payment. Mending your credit score won’t be achieved overnight, but your future self will thank you for your efforts today!

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

New Life Life

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Big-time

BOOKS The Final Gambit by Jennifer Lynn Barnes (Aug 30th)

To inherit billions, all Avery Kylie Grambs has to do is survive a few more weeks living in Hawthorne House. The paparazzi are dogging her every step. Financial pressures are building. Danger is a fact of life. Yet as the clock ticks down to the moment when Avery will become the richest teenager on the planet, trouble arrives in the form of a visitor who needs her help.

Love on the Brain by Ali Hazelwood (Aug 23rd)

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Love Hypothesis comes a new STEMinist rom-com in which a scientist is forced to work on a project with her nemesis—with explosive results. Sure, Levi is attractive in a tall, dark, and piercingeyes kind of way. And sure, he caught her in his powerfully corded arms like a romance novel hero when she accidentally damseled in distress on her first day in the lab. But Levi made his feelings toward Bee very clear in grad school— archenemies work best employed in their own galaxies far, far away. Yet Bee could swear she can see Levi softening into an ally, backing her plays, seconding her ideas… and the possibilities have all her neurons firing. 18

This month, four forays into fantastic fiction to ease you through the summer sun.

Stay Awake by Megan Goldin (Aug 9th)

Liv Reese wakes up in the back of a taxi with no idea where she is or how she got there. When she’s dropped off at her door, a stranger answers a stranger who now lives in her apartment and forces her out in the cold. She reaches for her phone to call for help, only to discover it’s missing, and in its place is a bloodstained knife. That’s when she sees that her hands are covered in black pen, scribbled messages like graffiti on her skin: STAY AWAKE. In the vein of SJ Watson’s Before I Go to Sleep and Christopher Nolan’s cult classic Memento, Megan Goldin’s Stay Awake is an electrifying novel that plays with memory and murder.

The Hookup Plan by Farrah Rochon (Aug 2nd)

Strong female friendships and a snappy enemiesto-lovers theme take centre stage in this highly anticipated romantic comedy from the USA Today bestselling author of The Dating Playbook. Successful paediatric surgeon London Kelley just needs to find some balance and de-stress. According to her friends Samiah and Taylor, what London really needs is a casual hook-up. A night of fun with no strings. But no one, least of all London, expected it to go down at her high school reunion with millionaire Drew Sullivan…

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£25

Prize Crossword Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this section and send to the address below before Friday 12th August. Prize Crossword, BedsLife, 17 Foxbrook, Stevington, Bedfordshire MK43 7QY

Last Months Crossword Winner – Mr Harpin, Brickhill For last months answers please turn to P62

Across 1 3

9 10 11 12 14 16 19

Daring (4) Three babies born together (8) In the wrong (2,5) Fibbing, falsifying (5) Inuit canoe (5) 40th president of the United States (6) North American wild dog (6) Male parent (6) Champagne (slang) (6)

Name: Address:

21 Distant suns (5) 24 Large bird of prey (5) 25 Spear-like whaling weapon (7) 26 Male singing voice (8) 27 Couple (4)

Down 1

Invisible winter driving hazard (5,3) 2 Elevated (5) 4 Come back (6) Tel:

5 6 7 8 13 15 17 18 20 22 23

Lively dance (5) Inscription on gravestone (7) Pungent herb (4) Pail (6) Captive (8) More juvenile (7) Ridiculous (6) Large snake (6) Baa, sheep noise (5) Fragrance (5) Edge of the pavement (4)

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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 • Home Arrangements • Civil Services Available • Green Burials • Bereavement Listening Service (Free to our families)

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THE KINGFISHER riverside pub and rooms – coming soon to Bedford sharing platters, including a traditional style ploughmans and antipasti. The 49 bedrooms have had a refresh and are welcoming back travellers from far and wide. The stunning 13th century barn has been relaunched as The Tithe Barn, Bedford and continues to host weddings and events. Managing Director Andrew McKenzie says “The Kingfisher is the result of a complete transformation of our building and we hope it will become THE place to be on the Bedford dining scene. A bold and creative re-design coupled with locally sourced, imaginative food and drinks, served by a great team of happy, smiling people will be a great draw for guests both old and new”.

After the long anticipated wait since the flooding in December 2020, The Kingfisher – riverside pub and rooms – is set to open it’s doors on Saturday 6th August. What was the Barns Hotel has been transformed into The Kingfisher, a stylish riverside pub with rooms serving cask ales, great wines and delicious seasonal dishes. The new menu has a focus on local produce and with many standout suppliers of quality produce on the doorstep, wherever possible they will be sourcing locally. Fresh fruit and vegetables will be coming from AB Fruits of Bedford and meat from Woburn County Foods. It doesn’t stop there – there are also amazing wines on the wine list coming from Warden Abbey Vineyard and guest ales from around the county. Think juicy burgers, freshly made pizzas, sharing plates and chef’s signature dishes which include catch of the week and a wide selection of vegetarian dishes. There will also be delicious

The Kingfisher is a four star pub with 49 bedrooms. Privately owned by Sir Peter Michael and family and part of The Vineyard Group. The 13th Century wedding and events Barn now has its own identity, The Tithe Barn, Bedford. Address: Barns, Cardington Road, Bedford. MK44 3SA Reservations: 01234 270044 Website: www.thekingfisherbedford.co.uk Instagram: @thekingdisherbedford Facebook: The Kingfisher Bedford

Coming soon New Riverside Pub With Rooms

01234 270044 enquiries@thekingfisherbedford.co.uk thekingfisherbedford.co.uk Barns, Cardington Road, Bedford, MK44 3SA

THE FORESTERS ARMS The pub is open in collaboration with Liquid Mobile Bar, who are famous for their fruity cocktails. There is a huge cocktail menu now available which I have started to make my way through, the Blueberry Smash was delicious! There is a huge selection of mocktails available too. The food menu has a definite Spanish influence with a range of tapas dishes, as well as sharing platters and quesadillas. The food is meant for sharing!

t’s so exciting to see Wells and Co giving so many pubs a new lease of life, and the latest reopening is no exception! The Foresters Arms is back and offering something very different to all the other pubs in town.

We shared the seafood platter which was spectacular, huge, juicy king prawns with garlic, thick slices of smoked salmon with ribbons of cucumber and moreish, creamy mackerel pate. We also tried out a few of the tapas dishes, I loved the fried Goats Cheese with sticky onions and delightfully zesty lemon grilled artichokes. Absolutely delicious! The perfect spot for date nights or a big night out with friends. There will also be monthly events including bottomless brunch which is going to be amazing!

Make sure to check out my Instagram @lydeatsfood for more local foodie finds!

Browns of Stagsden... A proper farm shop on a proper working family run farm

Stop at Stagsden for all your local produce

Home reared/local meat & poultry Fruit/vegetables. Homemade pies New: The Wine Cellar in Olney

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CLUBS & GROUPS JUNIOR TABLE TENNIS CLUB EVERY MONDAY IN MAY & JUNE 6PM-7.15PM Youngsters from ages 6-15 are welcome to come along to Lincroft Academy in Oakley. Bats and balls provided. A new Summer Junior League will also be running throughout July/August. Visit revolutionttc.co.uk/shop to book a place. Lincroft Academy, High Street, Oakley, MK43 7RE.

TUDOR REEDS FOLK DANCE CLUB FIRST, THIRD & FIFTH WEDNESDAY (IF THERE IS ONE) OF EACH MONTH 8PM TO 10PM We are a friendly Social Folk Dancing Club. No partner required. £2 per session St Marks Church Hall, Calder Rise, Brickhill, Bedford MK41 7UY Contact: Rosemary 01234 405594

OAKLEY RURAL DAY CENTRE FOR THE ELDERLY We provide a fun filled day of activities, games and good old conversation. Day includes refreshments and a two-course lunch. The Old School, Lovell Road, Oakley, Beds, Mk43 7RX For details contact Lynne Tuesday to Thursday on 01234 824935 Or Mobile: 07733 227374 Email: Oakleyruraldaycentre@Yahoo.Com www.Oakleyruraldaycentre.Weebly.Com

CARERS SOCIAL GROUP FIRST THURSDAY EVERY MONTH – 10AM TO 12PM Join this friendly group where you and the person you care for can meet others in similar circumstances over a cuppa. There is no need to register and there is no charge – just turn up! Carers in Bedfordshire Office, Emerald Court, Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford MK41 7PZ

BROMHAM SHORT MAT BOWLS CLUB TUESDAY EVENINGS 7PM – 9.30PM Please come along and try your hand at short mat bowling in Bromham Village Hall. Bowls available and all abilities welcome. Training will be given if you are a beginner. First two sessions are free with a cup of tea/coffee, biscuits and chat at half time. Telephone Ron Chapman 01234 822755 or Sue Amor 01234 823610 for more information or just come along. CARERS TOGETHER 2ND AND 4TH TUESDAYS OF THE MONTH AT 2.30PM We are a group in Sharnbrook offering support for Carers and Activities for the person you care for. Meet with other Carers for tea, cake and a chat at the Methodist Church, Park Lane. Sharnbrook. Contact Linda Hoar 07791214148. MEN’S MONTHLY CLUB FIRST WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH A safe place to talk with like-minded people. Free pool, experts on hand to help, guest speakers. For more info call 07947 417663 or 07497 938963 The Exec Club, 3 Lurke Street, Bedford MK40 3HZ 26

GOLDEN FRIENDSHIP CLUB – FOR THE OVER 50’S EVERY THURSDAY – 2PM TO 4PM, ENTRY £1 Refreshments, raffle, bingo, games, crafts and more Also occasional meals and outings. For information call Marion on 01234 304382 Christ the King Parish Hall, Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP BEDFORD FOLK & ACOUSTIC CLUB EVERY THURSDAY 8:30PM – 11PM Acoustic and folk music round-the-room. Musicians, singers and poets all welcome, at every level. Find us on facebook or come along. The Bowls Pavilion of Kempston Hammers Club, MK42 7BN. CARERS SATURDAY SOCIAL GROUP FIRST SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH – 10AM TO 12PM Do you look after someone who can’t cope without your support? This could be a parent, child, partner or other family member or friend, with any condition. Join this friendly group where you and the person you care for can meet others in similar circumstances over tea and cake. Only £2 entry. Priory Methodist Church, 63 Newnham Avenue, Bedford, MK41 9QJ

BEDFORDSHIRE WALKING FESTIVAL The 12th annual Bedfordshire Walking Festival starts at 8-00am on Saturday 10th September and finishes on Sunday afternoon 18th September. There are walks every day across the county ranging from short informative heritage walks of between 90-180 minutes to morning and afternoon half day walks of between 5-8 miles and to long walks of twelve miles up to the 40-mile Greensand Challenge over the last weekend. This year, following a number of enquiries, a one-day practical training course on how to use apps and maps on Sunday 11th has been included. If you have ever thought about getting out into the countryside but feel it would better to go with others, or if you are new to Bedfordshire and want to see what the county has to offer the festival is an ideal opportunity and one of the great things about living in this part of the county is the accessibility to the countryside and

its network of well-maintained paths. The festival has sixteen walks within the boundaries of the Borough and almost certainly one to suit you. This year the festival has teamed up with the award-winning John Bunyan Boat for a day out mixing walking with cruising and is ideal for both groups and individuals. On Thursday 15th September a morning informative walk from Priory Marina to Great Barford is followed by an afternoon cruising back to Bedford. If the walk is too far for you there are options to join or leave at Willington and whatever you decide to do the cost of the trip is the same at just £20 per person. Booking necessary. www.johnbunyanboat.org. More informative heritage walks are at Bedford Bedford Cemetery Foster Hill Road on Sunday afternoon 11th and on Tuesday 13th “The Jewel in the Crown” starting from

outside the Swan Hotel at 11-00am. On Sunday afternoon 18th starting at 1-30pm come and see and hear how Stewartby has changed from Pollution to Picturesque with a tour entitled A village in the heart of the vale. Those who prefer to stride out and cover the miles taking all day may like to come to Harrold on the first weekend with an Ouse Valley exploration of 12 miles on Saturday and a Village Meander of 18 miles on the Sunday. On Wednesday 14th join the Slow Ways linear walk from Bedford to Riseley of 11 miles and on Thursday a 16-mile circular gallop from Riseley taking in parts of north Bedfordshire often overlooked. To end the week, take up the challenge of the Greensand Ridge Path 40 miles,19 miles on Saturday and 21 miles on Sunday. certificates for all those who complete the challenge.

The Festival’s half day walks of 2.5 to 3 hours are split into morning and afternoon. The morning walks are starting from Little Staughton, Mowsbury Park, Turvey, and Willington. The afternoon walks starting from Pertenhall, Mowsbury Park and Roxton and Great Denham. These are just the walks in and around the Borough there are plenty more across the county. Almost all the walks are free and do not require booking enabling you to just turn up a short time before the start but if you have a query, please contact the walk leader. Some walks require booking so please book and not just turn up. Several walking events have a cost involved and this is shown to avoid hidden surprises. Programmes are now available both in printed form and on the festival web site www.bedswalkfest.co.uk.

The Summer Reading Challenge is back in local libraries this summer and you can take part from now until Sunday 4th September! This year’s challenge has been developed in partnership with The Science Museum Group, the world’s leading alliance of science museums. The challenge features the Gadgeteers – six fictional young innovators who, using creative thinking and teamwork, plan a party for their town’s summer fair celebration. Gadgeteers will be a celebration of reading, science and imagination.

the Gadgeteers are getting reading for their summer party. Every child who completes the challenge, by reading 6 library books, receives a medal and certificate.

There is also a Mini-Challenge for children aged 3 and under.

How to take part in the library

Children sign up at the library to start their Challenge, collecting the Gadgeteers collector poster. Borrow books and get reading! Children choose the books they want to read, recording what they have read in their poster. Library staff and volunteers are on hand to chat to children about books they have read. For every book read, children will pick up stickers (some are smelly!) along with other rewards. They will also discover the inventive ways

The Mini Challenge is a bite sized version of the Summer Reading Challenge for our youngest readers. Children collect stickers on a special collector card for the books they borrow and read. It’s all free, fun and a great way to keep children reading over the summer holidays.

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SUMMER FUN

AT THE FOREST OF MARSTON VALE

Wonderful woodland animal crafts Tues 2nd August

For fancy dress or just for fun – you can pretend to be a Forest creature this summer with our woodland animal craft activity at the Forest Centre! We provide the art and craft supplies and an eye mask ready for you to decorate like your favourite animal! Ticket includes all materials for crafting, and your mask to take home at the end of the session. Price – £4 per child (age 3+) Sessions last one hour and start at 11am and 1pm – please arrive in plenty of time, so that you are ready at the start time. Parental supervision is essential. Suitable for ages 3+. To book visit www.marstonvale.org/Event/ woodland-animal-crafts-tuesday-2-august

Dinosaur crafts Tues 16 August

Become a prehistoric painter this summer holidays and try your hand at some dinosaur themed craft activities at the Forest Centre! We provide the art and craft supplies and a dino decoration – you just need to let your imagination run wild with fantastic designs! Ticket includes all materials for crafting, and the decoration to take home at the end of the session. £4 per child (age 3+) Sessions last one hour and start at 11am and 1pm – please arrive in plenty of time, so that you are ready at the start time. Parental supervision is essential. Suitable for ages 3+.

Wonderful woodland animals activity trail Weds 3 August to Tues 9 August

The young woodland animals are ready for summer and have all come out to play! Can you spot the 10 different animal species hiding in our Sensory Garden, and find all our furry (and feathered) friends to win a prize? £3 per child (age 1+) includes trail sheet and a small prize per child. Sessions: 11am – 12pm or 1pm – 2pm. You can turn up at any time during your booked session – please make sure you turn up for the correct session (check your email for confirmation). We may be busy at certain times, so you may have a short wait before entering the garden. This is a self-led activity.

Dinosaur activity trail Weds 17 to Tues 23 August

Join us on a dinosaur safari – 10 different dinos have been stomping and flying around the Sensory Garden! Spot them all and complete the trail sheet to tell us where you saw them and win a prize. £3 per child (age 1+) includes trail sheet and a small prize per child. Sessions: 11am – 12pm or 1pm – 2pm. You can turn up at any time during your booked session – please make sure you turn up for the correct session (check your email for confirmation). We may be busy at certain times, so you may have a short wait before entering the garden. This is a self-led activity.

THE FOREST CENTRE, STATION ROAD, MARSTON MORETAINE, BEDFORD MK43 0PR

TWO OAKS PONY SANCTUARY

OPENING DAY Dog show, live music, pony grooming, BBQ, stall holders, face painting and more. Meet all the animals, including pigs, horses and goats! SUNDAY 14TH AUGUST | 12:00-4:00PM PARKING ON SITE TWO OAKS PONY SANCTUARY, DARR’S LANE, HP4 3RJ Entry on the gate – £1 adults, children go free Two Oaks Pony Sanctuary opened in 2006 as an entirely self-funded project. They offer a safe home for horses, ponies, chickens, ducks, pigs, goats and many other animals. The owner, Carol, pays for most of the upkeep and treatment of these animals out of her own pocket, and with helpful donations from the public. As anyone in animal rescue knows, this is an incredibly expensive and time consuming passion, factoring in the crisis of Covid-19 Two Oaks Pony Sanctuary sadly had to close its doors to the public for two years. For these two years Two Oaks Pony Sanctuary has continued to take in, rescue and rehabilitate abandoned, abused and unwanted pets from many places – including the large rehoming of many chickens, and the addition of more furry friends who found themselves in need of Two Oaks’

help. Unlike some rescues, Two Oaks do not take any funding from the government, and so every donation, share, and event helps to keep them open and continuing the vital work that they do. For the first time since the covid-19 crisis Two Oaks Pony Sanctuary will be re-opening its doors to the public on Sunday 14th August 2022, between 12-4pm. This event will include a dog show, live music, a BBQ, and many trade stands and stools from local businesses selling an array of products on the day, along with advertising opportunities within the programme on the day.

Visit the facebook page Two Oaks Pony Sanctuary

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We are a family friendly HCPC registered Podiatry clinic based in Harrold. Relocated to bigger premises, after 19 years, as Mary Marsh Chiropody Clinic, in Irchester.

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Sharnbrook House Care Home is set in the picturesque village of Sharnbrook in Bedfordshire and we specialise in high-quality residential care.

The team at Sharnbrook House are exceptional and wholly committed to providing the very best care. They are loving, caring, compassionate and have all been selected because they genuinely care and treat our residents with the respect and dignity that they deserve. Please call us on 01234 781294 to arrange a viewing of Sharnbrook House to ensure you know it is the right home for you and your loved one. Or e-mail sharnbrook@greensleeves.org.uk for any other information or to request a brochure. We are now recruiting for staff in a number of different roles, contact us for more details. Sharnbrook House,High Street, Sharnbook, Bedfordshire MK44 1PB Greensleeves Homes Trust is a registered charity in England & Wales No 1060478

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MILKYS MUSIC MATTERS PATIO PARTY Sat 6th August @ Esquires

The first ever Patio Party will provide a brand-new Reggae, Dub, Roots and Ska all-dayer from the team behind FoodDrunk. Featuring live Music, street Food, DJs and Rum. On Saturday 6th August, Esquires will be opening the doors for a day in celebration of a tiny island that has shaped music in culture like no other. Live music from: THE PRIDE, THE SG’S, REBEL VIBE, BUBOUNCE and DJ’s curated by Roll Your Own Records. Bedford’s finest, CARUMBAR are setting up shop with the best Caribbean food served throughout the day + FREE RED STRIPE! Yep, actual free beer. Esquires brewery, Marstons have kindly given us 50 free pints of Red Stripe to give away to the first 50 people through the gates (1pp). Entry is FREE and is an all-ages event. 1pm til late.

THE RUMJACKS Sat 20th August @ Esquires

For The Rumjacks; the enforced global shutdown has been a new beginning with the arrival of Mike Rivkees as lead vocalist. Mike, through his previous work has an impressive reputation as a one of the most engaging, fun, and honest lead singers in the scene. With his numerous musical influences from; Ska and Hardcore, through to a mix of traditional folk music, Mike’s voice and songs complimented The Rumjacks diverse musical catalogue perfectly: Hailing from the streets of Sydney Australia, The Rumjacks have been described as a mix between seminal bands The Clash and The Pogues. March 2021 saw The Rumjacks release their first album with new frontman Mike Rivkees. The hotly anticipated, and subsequently; critically acclaimed ‘HESTIA’ has been a top shelf, tour de force addition to their already impressive musical catalogue. Since HESTIA’s release the album and singles ‘Sainted Millions’, ‘Light in my Shadow’ and title track ‘Hestia’ have garnered impressive numbers across all streaming platforms, YouTube, Mainstream Radio play across Europe; and charting in the top fifty of the German Official Music Charts. Now with five full length studio albums under their belt, two full length digital releases ‘Live in Athens’ and ‘Live in London, Acoustic Session’; their YouTube channel has blown up with most music videos cracking over one million views and the iconic Irish Pub Song now over 72 million views; The Rumjacks will start the Bedford party on 20th August.

SUPPORT THE BEDFORD LIVE SCENE UPCOMING GIGS FOR YOUR DIARY ESQUIRES Sat 6th Aug Sat 13th Aug Sat 20th Aug

Patio Party – A Reggae, Dub, Roots & Ska All-dayer Noasis The Rumjacks

Sun 21st Aug Sat 27th Aug

The Feelgood Band FoodDrunk 2 – Food vans, beer, music!

+ many more, check listings at bedfordesquires.com for details or facebook.com/bedfordesquires Tickets available from Esquires, Slide Record Shop and online at seetickets.com

DEADLETTER + SOFT LAD Fri 9th September @ Esquires

“Hailing from Yorkshire, now South London rooted, DEADLETTER channel the droll fury of The Fall and the lopsided rhythms of LCD Soundsystem into a strain of vehement post-punk, exploring the darker side of existence through a lens of narrative-driven levity. With members being firm friends from birth, there is an instinctive understanding of movement and danceability to their music worth its’ weight in gold, whilst never cheapening the nuance and grit of their sound. With four singles now under their belt, the only way is upwards for DEADLETTER. “One of London’s most exciting bands” – So Young Magazine. “DEADLETTER are one of the most exciting new acts out there.” – DIY”. “The next time someone says to me ‘why aren’t the young bands writing about politics anymore’ I might well play them DEADLETTER” – Steve Lamacq

COMING UP, COMING UP

It’s festival season!

Keep music live, Milky

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Plastering of ceilings and walls Damaged ceilings and walls repaired Covering artex Plasterboarding Skimming Patch repairs Insurance work

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NOW INSTALLING HOME VEHICLE CHARGERS

WE OFFER ON ALL BOILER INSTALLATIONS* BAILEY'S HEATING COMPANY LTD is an Introducer Appointed Representative and provides a pure client introduction through Improveasy Ltd (FRN 708623). The firm is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a broker, not a lender and offers credit facilities from a panel of lenders. The credit is subject to application and status.

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RGR Garages Cranfield a family run FORD dealership for over 50 years

www.rgr-garages.co.uk 01234 750207 RGR Garages (Cranfield) Ltd, High Street, Cranfield, Bedfordshire MK43 0DG

For all makes and models of vehicle – service, repair and MOT MOT standalone cost £45, if booked with a scheduled service MOT is £35 Free collection and delivery in 15 mile radius

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ELITE FLAT ROOFING SERVICES EXPERTS

Over 20 years combined experience. You can rest assured knowing your roof is in safe hands!

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THE BURROW AT THE BLUES RE-OPENS ITS DOORS

edford Blues’ newest hospitality and events venue, The Burrow at the Blues, has officially re-opened as part of the club’s exciting future plans at Goldington Road. Five permanent TV screens have been installed to make the location more of a live sports destination, while there is a new and improved food and drinks menu on offer, with the kitchen currently being run by local business, Taylor’s Kitchen. Opening hours are as follows: Thursday & Friday (5-10pm), Saturday (12-10pm) and Sunday (12-5pm). The venue will also host event nights on each Thursday ranging from monthly comedy shows, quiz nights, bingo and private hires.

Blues Chief Operating Officer, Gareth Alred said: “This is an exciting time for the club on an doff the field. Hopefully our investment into The Burrow will enable more people to enjoy the Blues and Goldington Road year round.”

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

FLYSTRIKE in rabbits What is flystrike?

Flies can lay their eggs around the tail and bottom of rabbits. These eggs hatch out into maggots which burrow into and eat the skin and flesh of the rabbit. This is known as “flystrike”.

When is flystrike likely to occur?

Flystrike is likely to occur in warm weather conditions towards the end of the summer when the flies are most active. It is more likely to affect rabbits that have dirty bottoms as this will attract the flies.

What are the symptoms of flystrike?

Because fly eggs and maggots hatch and develop within hours, flystrike can develop very quickly and a lot of damage can be caused in less than a day. Affected rabbits will tend to be depressed with a reduced appetite and reduced energy levels. If you look at the skin around the bottom you may notice a bad smell, dampness, fur loss and sometimes open wounds. If you look closely you may be able to see small, wriggling, maggots.

How should flystrike be treated?

Flystrike is a life-threatening emergency and you should seek veterinary attention immediately if you notice maggots on your pet. The rabbit should be treated for shock and infection (pain relief, fluids, antibiotics, assisted feeding) and the maggots must be removed. Medication is applied to the rabbit to prevent the hatching out of further maggots.

How is flystrike prevented?

Rabbits are more likely to have clean bottoms (less attractive to flies!) if they maintain a lean bodyweight and have a good, hay or grass-based diet. Flies should be kept away from rabbit accommodation by using a fine mesh around the run, and/ or using fly papers. Preventative medication to repel flies and prevent eggs from hatching is available from your veterinary surgery and is recommended for use between May and September.

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A GUIDE TO The UK’s six reptile species are often overlooked. Their shyness and increasing rarity means they are seldom encountered, but if you are lucky enough to stumble across one it is sure to make your heart beat a little faster! Reptiles can tolerate the peripheries where mammals struggle to succeed, and are great indicators of the health of our habitats. Sadly, all are suffering declines due to loss and degradation of habitats, continual fragmentation of populations and persecution, so it is crucially important that we protect our precious reptile populations now. In Bedfordshire these four native reptiles can be found in Bedfordshire, including the adder; Britain’s only venomous snake, the grass snake; known for its aquatic lifestyle, the slow-worm; a legless lizard that is often mistaken for a snake, and the common lizard, which sheds its skin each year.

Adder

Although venomous, the adder is not aggressive, choosing to retreat from disturbance rather than face confrontation. Even when harassed the snake often hisses and warns well before striking. A small and chunky snake, adders typically measure around 50cm. Males are pale grey and females are usually brownish with orange and red

shades. Adders have red eyes and a distinctive brown zigzag down the spine, which is darker in the males. To feed itself, the adder sits motionless and waits for small mammals such as voles or mice to pass by, relying on its camouflage. On striking, it waits for its prey to retreat and die and then follows the scent of its own venom to find it. It will also feed on small birds and lizards. It favours sheltered areas where it can bask in warm sunshine, such as woodland clearings, glades and edges, heathland, moorland and areas of open scrub, bramble and gorse where it can hunt and commute in relative safety from predators. Adders give live birth to between three and over a dozen young. They are usually born between August and October. From October, adders go into hibernation and usually emerge in the first warm days of March, which can often be the best time to spot them.

Grass snake

The grass snake is the UK’s largest and commonest snake. It prefers wetland habitats, and good places to look for them include clean, slow-

a stripe down the back, and very occasionally individuals can be found with blue spots. They are small, usually measuring between 30 and 40cm. They have blinking eyes and fragile tails that can break as a defence mechanism, like most lizards.

BEDFORDSHIRE’S FASCINATING REPTILES flowing rivers, canals, lakes and ponds. The grass snake is a strong swimmer and its diet consists mainly of fish and amphibians, although it will also eat small mammals and young birds. Occasionally grass snakes are seen on heathland sites too – especially the larger females that can tackle mammals and other reptiles. The grass snake can be identified by its grey or olive-green body and yellow and black collar. Another distinguishing feature is its round pupils (adders have vertical slit-shaped pupils). Females typically grow to around one metre, while males reach around 70cm. Females lay between 10 and 40 eggs, favouring warm, rotting piles of vegetation in which to incubate them. They sometimes choose garden compost heaps in which to lay their eggs. If you’re lucky enough to find a grass snake in your heap, you can cover the heap with an old piece of carpet to provide extra protection from predators.

Slow worm

The slow worm is sometimes mistakenly referred to as a grass snake. Although it resembles a snake it is actually a legless lizard. The slow worm is smooth, shiny, and a metallic golden brown in colour. The females have darker flanks and

Lizards are particularly fond of hunting on warm days after rainfall when slugs and earthworms can be caught. It is regularly found in allotments, gardens and on rough grassland, but is most often encountered on heathland sites and insect-rich unmanaged grasslands, particularly heathland and woodland edge habitats. It lives mainly out of sight under the grass thatch and among thick vegetation where it can hunt invertebrates. The slow worm is less likely to be seen out in the open, as it gains heat and energy while basking underneath vegetation, leaf litter, timber or rocks.

Common or Viviparous lizard

The common lizard is generally small, measuring about 15cm. It is variable in colour, but most are brownish-grey, often with rows of darker spots or stripes down the back and sides. Males have bright yellow or orange undersides with spots, while females have paler cream bellies with stripes. It is found in warm, insect-rich habitats, often unmanaged with plenty of diversity and dead wood. Main habitats include heathland, moorland, scrub, woodland edges and geological scree sites. Like the adder and slow-worm, the common lizard gives birth to live young. This way the eggs are not at the mercy of erratic spring and summer weather, and the mother can carry them into warm areas or hide underground when surface temperatures are too cold. The young are born around July, when the insect population is usually at its highest. If you do encounter a reptile while out and about – especially on one of our sites – we’d love to know about it. Your sightings will help inform our conservation work, and build up a picture of populations in our county! Email info@marstonvale.org

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WHAT YOUR FLOWERS SAY ABOUT YOU

hether growing sprays of inspiring, energising flowers in our gardens, or choosing an appropriate bunch of flowers to send as a gesture to a friend, family member or loved one, the florae and blossoms we send actually say more about us than you might imagine.

Chrysanthemum A bouquet staple, these impressive flowers have a simple meaning – honesty.

FLOWERS

Forget-Me-Nots As the name of these delicate blue buds would suggest, Forget-Me-Nots represent true love, longing and memory.

Anthurium The ideal flower someone who has been a wonderful host, these brilliant red, exotic beauties symbolise hospitality, happiness and abundance. Carnation These cute and ruffled blooms actually represent pride and beauty, while their different colours have a host of other meanings: white – innocence and pure love; red – admiration, pink – motherly love; yellow – disdain.

Daffodil Want to tell someone you love them but don’t know how? Daffodils are the flower of unrequited love.

Lavender Not just for tucking into drawers to keep clothes fresh, the fragrant lavender actually represents devotion. Lilac Think you might be falling for someone? Lilacs symbolise the first emotions of love. Lily Often thought of as a funeral flower, the fragrant, majestic and ethereal lily actually represents purity of heart, and when displayed at a funeral means that the departed’s soul has been restored to innocence. Lily-of-the-Valley These buoyant little bells are an ideal token for a recent birth as they symbolise sweetness.

Orchid Want the ultimate Mother’s Day gift? Orchids represent refinement, glorious femininity, and mature charm. Peony The ultimate passive-aggressive statement, the Peony is charming and often included in a bouquet yet indicates anger. Red Poppy The flower of Remembrance Day represents just that.

ROSES

As far as roses go, again there are a maze of meanings attached to the colours we choose: Red – love Light Pink – grace Coral – desire Dark pink – gratitude Peach – modesty Cream – charm and thoughtfulness White – a heart touched by love Burgundy – beauty Purple – enchantment Yellow – infidelity

Gardening Tips and Advice from

THE POTTING SHED OF THE GENTLEMAN GARDENER Recently, my grandson Sam, who is 19, has been working with me on my gardens. It’s so good to see the next generation of gardeners showing genuine interest and passion for all things horticultural, asking questions, handling plants and getting the soil between their fingers. Well, we’ve certainly had some varying weather and temperatures over recent weeks. To keep hanging baskets looking good, deadhead regularly and trim back if they look a bit untidy. Water regularly with a liquid feed high in potash. Cut back hardy perennials such as geraniums and delphiniums to encourage a second flurry of flowers. If your deciduous magnolia is getting a bit big, trim it back now to keep it a nice size. Tie in new growth on roses, clematis and other climbers to avoid damage if there’s a summer downpour.

Runner beans and celery are crops which need a lot of moisture; if the hot weather continues, water as often as you can.

A rustic, reclaimed wooden step ladder with each step filled with scented herbs in terracotta pots looks very cottage garden. Rosemary, basil, thyme and some lime mint work well. A plaque on my potting shed reminds me everyday: “Hands in the dirt. Head in the sun. Heart with nature.” Nurturing your garden doesn’t just feed the body but also the soul. Please have a lovely time out there in your garden during August and enjoy every minute. Enjoy! The Gentleman Gardener NTLEM GE

If you didn’t prune and feed your blackcurrants last month, do it now to bring on young fruiting growth for 2023. I can see those mouthwatering pies now.

I discovered a beautiful white-flowering, fragrant Jasmine last year, Jasmine Polyanthum, which blooms in winter. Train it up at one end of your greenhouse. At bud stage its flowers are a lovely pink.

Welcome back to my potting shed.

DENE

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Articles inside

Gardening

What Your Flowers Say About You

Milky’s Music Matters

Forest of Marston Vale – Fascinating Reptiles

Bedford Town FC

Two Oaks Pony Sanctuary

Clubs & Groups

What’s On

Summer Reading Challenge

Bedfordshire Walking Festival

LydEats Food – The Foresters Arms

Books

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In the Stix

The Kingfisher

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About Town with Love Bedford 6

Mohammad Yasin MP