BedsLife January 2017

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January 2017

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Bumper Cinema Tickets Italian Hamper £25 Crossword Setting New Year Goals Women’s Health Special Hospital Radio Bedford BedsLife Charities 2017 What’s On Guide

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Content Welcome.. & Features to 2017!

Happy New Year to all!

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o, January is upon us...and after all the fun of Christmas, it’s the traditional month to lose weight, get fit, stop smoking, become an incredible person and basically re-invent yourself!

But is that likely? Probably not all at once but you can achieve a lot with the right mind set. Have a read of our New Year article on p 30- it’s all about setting goals and being realistic to achieve them.

We are very excited about our new charity donation scheme starting this month. BedsLife will be donating to 8 local charities during the course of the year so our new year’s resolution is to give a little back. See who the first two charities are on page 4.

We are always keen to hear from charities who may like to feature as our monthly charity and also from any local non-profit groups and associations that would like to promote so please get in touch with us.

The charity this month is (HRB), Hospital Radio Bedford. Find out what they do and how to volunteer with them. Citizens Advice Bureau on page 8 remind you what help information you can get and how and our Consumer article on page 12 is very useful for you to check ensure you are receiving any allowances you may qualify for.

All your favourites too – MP Column, Council News, Gardening, Animals, Sport, Tarotscopes, Volunteering and more – plus our regular competitions to enter!

Enjoy J Febru

BedsLife Magazine @BedsLife

ar bookingy dead Mondaliyn9eth January

BedsLife Charities for 2017 4 6 Council News Citizens Advice Bureau 8 10 MP Views 12 Consumer Advice Re-Use Centre 14 16 Hospital Radio Bedford 24 Women’s Health New Year’s Goals 30 Recipe 40 48 What’s On Race for Life 2017 53 MK Theatre – Not Dead Enough 54 66 Take Me Home Tarotscopes 68 70 Prize Crossword 72 Winter Birds Garden Tips 76 Bedfordshire Police 80 Bedford Town Football Club 84 Bedford Blues Rubgy Club 87 Volunteering Opportunities 94

Advertising Christa Tel 01234 962929 / 07827 015170 E: christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk Teresa Tel 01234 310521 / 07429 136815 E: teresa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk Design and Artwork Doug Dawson Creative Ltd 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.

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to support local charities in 2017

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edsLife Magazine is passionate about supporting charities and for 2017, we have a new initiative to directly support 12 charities a year.

We will choose two charities to support for each quarter of the year and donate an amount at from the magazine the end to each of them.

This means we can give something back and advertisers are also supporting charity when they advertise their business with us.

We are always very happy to receive contributions and articles from all local charities and groups who would like to increase awareness for what they do. Please do get in touch if you would like to feature. We also offer reduced advertising rates for charities.

Our first two charities for January to March are The Tibbs Dementia Foundation, Bedford and Sue Ryder, St Johns Hospice, Moggerhangar.

The Tibbs Dementia Foundation is a local charity based in Adelaide Square, set up to provide support in the community to anyone affected by Dementia as well as their carers and families. Dementia has now overtaken cardiovascular disease as the number one disease affecting the community. They have a passionate concern for the wellbeing of people with dementia & their carers and they offer

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talking therapy services (such as Clear Voices & Encompass) and an informative Support 4 Memory course.

They have an incredible team of around 50 committed, trained volunteers – who do everything from supporting service-users, counselling, accounts, publicity and fundraising to playing music and making refreshments! www.tibbsdementia.co.uk

Sue Ryder, St John’s Hospice is situated in the quiet village of Moggerhanger. They care for people who are approaching the end of their lives with progressive conditions. They have 15 beds and provide residential services for people aged 18 and over who have been referred by healthcare professionals. All their palliative care services are free of charge for the people who need them and the Sue Ryder nurses and care assistants are at the heart of this incredible care.

Their philosophy is to work holistically across all disciplines, with each patient receiving individualised programmes of care and they also look after and support their families and carers, offering emotional support, bereavement help and spiritual care. www.sueryder.org Our next article in March will announce the two charities for March to May.

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

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Citizens Advice Bureau -

offering Help and support C itizens Advice Bedford (CAB) is an independent charitable organisation that helps people resolve their problems by providing information and advice.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO HELP?

It is part of the national Citizens Advice organisation which aims to: • Provide the advice people need for the problems they face.

• Influence policymakers to improve the policies and practices that affect people’s lives.

If you are open minded and non- judgemental, IT literate, can listen to people, have good written and spoken English you are exactly the sort of person that CAB needs. If you can commit a minimum of 6 hours per week on an ongoing basis, why not contact our office to see if this would suit you?

Our service is open to anyone: it is free, independent, confidential and impartial. CAB offers a variety of confidential and convenient advice channels to our clients:-If you wish to get advice or just have a question you wish to ask in person then just pop along to our offices.

Volunteers can work in face to face roles, research and campaign roles or admin and media roles.

If you are not able to visit us, then why not make use of our exclusive Bedford Borough advice telephone service or email us your problem.

Nearly 20% of our clients accessed advice this way last year.

Last year CAB delivered 16,500 pieces of advice to over 8,000 people, helped over 2000 people generating £2.7m in additional benefits for clients and managed debt worth £2.6m 8

As a Citizen Advice volunteer you don’t need any particular qualifications or experience as we have our own comprehensive accredited training programme that will give you all the skills you need to deliver a high quality service to our clients.

For more information and to download the application form please visit www.bedfordcab.org.uk or call into the office at 7a St. Pauls Square, Bedford, MK40 1SQ.

MP COLUMN

Views from

Alistair Burt, your Local MP...

PLANNING FOR THE BEST

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owards the end of last year I had two excellent meetings with local communities – one with a Town Council, and the other with a self-assembled residents group, both of which wanted a word with me about planning.

Now, don’t get me wrong. I love my job, and the constituency side of it as much as Westminster.

But just occasionally the heart sinks in relation to planning matters, for your MP has no seat on the planning committees of either Central Beds or Bedford Borough. An evening in front of residents on planning is normally an invitation to a skittle alley, where you are a defenceless target in the face of some outrage about which you can do very little, but listen to the heartfelt concerns of a packed village hall. (Though I still love it.)

These two meetings were very different. There was no single planning proposal which had caused concern, but constituents wanted to ask about the process of taking a longer view of the increase in housing numbers in the area, and above all about a co-ordinated view involving many different services. It seemed to them that although a local plan, put together by our councils who do indeed endeavour to think ahead, could look forward a number of years, and do its best to ensure development of new estates or village additions were well spread, existing residents could not see how such developments were tied up with policing needs, bus timetables, major road proposals and the provision of health services, for example. And by health, not simply a GP’s surgery – there are one or two places which either have buildings, or empty plots where buildings were planned- but the actual supply of doctors and medical staff.

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Some of these issues, whilst hugely relevant to the way people live, are not strictly planning matters according to law, so councils cannot take them into account when making an individual planning decision. But they are very important to established communities asked to accept a new wave of housing to meet the overall growth of the region. Those who had asked such questions of those in authority reported to me that they felt either brushed off, or not listened to.

I found both meetings really good, and one of my first tasks in the New Year is to find out from those wider authorities how best to meet this request for both more information and greater involvement.

2016 demonstrated a frustration amongst the public that decisions were too often done to them. I cannot suggest that all decisions in the future will be to everyone’s liking, but those of us in representative positions have got to work harder to ensure greater trust, transparency and answers.

Alistair Burt

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

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A Happy New Year to all!

Money matters

By MartinMatters Lewis Money

Bah humbug

By Martin Lewis

Married, student, parent, Christmas is coming and millions will celebrate pensioner or festival. carer?Call me Scrooge – and it as a retail many do – but I’d love to ban the giving of Are you owed presents. £100s? unnecessary

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ot gifts for your partner and kids illions failthe to claim benefits under tree, but ratheror that refunds they're entitled to – ever growing list of teachers, missing out work now can have a and extended family, colleagues massive morelong-term for whom hit. buying feels like a chore rather than a joy, ending up with Young or old, student or parent, you could be tit-for-tat giving with items that few losing out on money that's rightfully yours. need or ause.

Plus want, by not spending few minutes to check now, you could be losing out on £1,000s more So what about the joy of giving? But there’s a in future. Here are some of the main ones to cost to that too. While it may feel generous to check. give to someone, you are effectively obligating them to buy you back and help misprioritise • Married or in a civil partnership? You their finances. After all, if you give them a £10 could be hat owed to £432.

One million bobble andup they give you a £10 novelty pair have successfully claimed the marriage taxspent of socks in return, the net result is they’ve allowance in the past 18 months, a £10 on a hat they neither wantedthough nor needed – whopping 3.1m who are eligible still haven't which may’ve been better spent! claimed. Don't miss out – see Marriage Tax Allowance Check.

So why not set up a pre-NUPP (No Unnecessary Present Pact) to say I won’t buy for you and you student • Graduate don’t buypaying for meoff – oryour at least limit loan? the cost.

Many overpay by £100s. Last year alone, 77,000 bagged average £700 refund Budget!

Beforeanyou start planning, consider after It happens when you keep this:overpaying. many of us list every lusted-for item, gifts paying on yourmeal, old salary evenafterwards after a for all based and a corking then only pay cut, or you after paida off – consider: "Howkeep will Igoing pay for it?" it's That's recipe see Graduate Refund help. to be broke. Instead, calculate your budget and ask: "What can I afford to spend on Christmas?"

• Parent to a young child?

Act NOW to whole protectof Christmas is one day – don't ruin the the state next year for it.entitlement. If your first your pension child was born since 2013 and you don't 12

12

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claim twice! child benefit because of means-testing rules, you could be putting yourisstate pensionSo Christmas shopping on impulse dangerous. at riska–shopping act now to it. You be make listprotect and stick to it.could Remember, missing out on £1,000son over your retirement shops spend a fortune targeting your ifspending you fail to claim child benefit even if your impulses – a list helps–you beat them. partner's income means you're not entitled to keep Set it. Urgent Benefit Check up aChild Christmas cupboard Make a list of who you need to buy for and 63+ see andgifts on low income?

• Aged Ensure when you at great prices, grab,you wrap, claim pension The cupboard Government and put in yourcredit.

Christmas – the earlier estimates the better. 1m+ aren't claiming this top-up to their weekly pension. Our Pension Credit a cheaper guideBuy has qualifying criteriaturkey! and how to claim.

"It's Christmas! We need the best!" Everyone presumes to prefer higher-brand -but don't you one of 6.5m who cares goods for someone?

• Are be a retail what's right for not the Ensure yousnob. claimBuy carer's credit.

It's you, a national shop. Visit 'credit' www.mysupermarket.co.uk compare insurance to fill gaps in your NItorecord. cost of goods at the big online supermarkets.

Ifthe you don't claim you could lose out on £1,000s of your state pension. See Carer's Credit help.

PS: Even if you can't claim for the above, if you Debt worries overof Xmas? have a household income £73,000 or less per Get year you help could still be due cash. Find out in our Sadly, Christmas isn't jolly for all. Managing 10-Min Benefits Checker your Christmas the wrong way round can be a recipe for debt and disappointment.

Free one to one help is on hand at www. moneysavingexpert.com/loans/debt-help-plan Find all these areas of information at www.moneysavingexpert.com

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Exciting times at The ReUse Centre!

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n Monday 12th December we expanded the site at Gadsby Street to offer an even better shopping experience. The ReUse Centre have been serving the community of Bedford for almost 20 years now, providing low cost furniture and white goods to people in need. Mark Thompson, Chief Officer says “All our donated items are either sold or recycled and The ReUse Centre also has an online sales presence through its eBay shop.”

However The ReUse Centre do so much more than sell furniture! This winter we have been running the ‘Wrap Up Bedford’ campaign for the fourth year running. We collect donations of winter coats, clothes and sleeping bags which are distributed to anyone in need.

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The ReUse Centre also provides volunteering opportunities for those who wish to increase their skills and employability or just be part of a team which gives back to the community they serve.

Over 40 wonderful volunteers do an assortment of tasks such as serving customers, deliveries and collections, PAT testing and IT! After winning a grant from the European Social Fund, The ReUse Centre have been able to offer 2 free courses to unemployed people in Bedford about how to sell on eBay. These courses are underpinned by employability and confidence building skills. A participant on the first course said ‘I enjoyed understanding how eBay works and understanding myself.’ The course will be running again in January.

If you want to know more about the great work The ReUse Centre do, would like to make a donation, are interested in attending the “eBay & you” course starting on 5th January or have some time to spare to volunteer with us then go to our website on www.thereusecentre.org.uk or send an e-mail to mail@thereusecentre.org.uk 14

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

15

CHARITY

Hospital Radio, Bedford (HRB)

Helping patients to recover with entertainment and music

H

ospital Radio Bedford (HRB) is a registered charity staffed by an enthusiastic group of people who make exciting programmes to entertain patients and hospital staff.

Launched in 1975, the radio station has grown and developed to reflect the changing needs and demands of patients. Going into hospital can be a daunting prospect as we all know, with so many things to consider and prepare for. Perhaps one of the most concerning issues is just how long you may be in hospital for.

A comprehensive bedside entertainment schedule reflects the listening preferences of the patients and programmes range from light comedy to factual documentaries, with a huge variety of music from all genres. News is broadcast on the hour, every hour and when live programmes are not possible, there is a 24 hour unattended service.

Hospital Radio Bedford endeavours to provide a broadcasting service that reaches all patients and offers a broad range of programmes that both stimulate and decrease potential stress

whilst being away from the comforts of home life.

One of the most recent developments at Bedford Hospital could help to make your stay just that bit more comfortable and relaxed.

Last year the hospital installed a free Wi-Fi system which enables patients and staff to access the internet via your smart phone, tablet or laptop.

Once on the ward you can ask for the wi-fi code and simple instructions to connect.

Volunteers work every night to prepare and broadcast programmes. The most popular is the request hour. Volunteers visit the hospital wards and talk to patients and collect their choices of music. A programme is then put together very quickly and dedications are made live on air.

As well as the flagship request programme , there are a host of other offerings that provide entertainment for patients throughout the week, such as the Comedy hour, Film talk, the Big Band sound and the Jazz hour.

We are always looking for new people to volunteer and the request show is a really good place to start. Indeed, many professional broadcasters have ‘cut their teeth’ as a volunteer for hospital radio and have gone on to become household names!

Radio broadcasting is inextricably linked to the changing world of technology we all live in and so there are all sorts of technical opportunities that one can volunteer for at Hospital Radio Bedford.

In order to make our schedule of programmes work we need technical support too.

Working as volunteer can be a very positive and satisfying experience and on many occasions, HRB volunteers have made a difference to the patient experience. One of our HRB volunteers told us that whilst visiting a hospital ward, he had

16

met a patient who had just returned from this operation. Thinking that a music request would be the last thing on this patients mind, our HRB volunteer was amazed when the man asked if he could listen to his alltime favourite song. He happily obliged and the patient requested more the next week!

Being able to listen to music is therapeutic and there has been research that suggests that listening to music can have a positive effect on recovery and healing.

Neuroscientists discovered that listening to music heightens positive emotion through the reward centres of the brain, stimulating hormones that make us feel good. In fact, almost no brain centre is left untouched -- suggesting more widespread effects and potential uses for music. Listening to music can really help post-surgery recovery and can also improve outcomes for people with Alzheimer’s. In some cases it is said that the positive impact of music on health can be more powerful than medication!

For more information please visit: www.hospitalradiobedford.org.uk

17

SERVICES

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19

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Why

River Cruise?

P

erhaps you like exploring historic cities on mini breaks, or usually you enjoy escorted tours taking you from destination to destination and treating you to a wealth of history and culture, or perhaps you enjoy the exemplary service and the advantage of only unpacking once on an ocean cruise ship. You can enjoy all of this – and more – on a river cruise.

Sailing between destinations along the waterways of Europe and beyond, a river cruise will take you into the heart of charming cities, usually offering some free time to explore, as well as fascinating tours (usually included in the price of the holiday) which give you a deeper insight into the history and culture of the city and region. A much smaller floating hotel than most ocean cruises, a river ship is a floating hotel nonetheless, offering attentive and personalised service, and – of course – there’s no need to unpack between each destination. River cruising takes the best of all these types of holiday, and offers an enhanced experience.

Although river ships are more constrained in how tall and wide they can be than ocean ships – which can be built to carry in excess of 5,000 people, or just 50 – and you’ll never find a multitude of dining venues and waterslides onboard, you will nonetheless still enjoy sumptuous comfort, stunning views of the changing scenery outside, plus an enhanced emphasis on shore-side experiences, which is arguably where most river cruise lines focus their attention to differentiate themselves.

Most river cruise lines will include tours and excursions in the price, while those that don’t may offer additional excursion packages to allow guests the flexibility to explore both independently and with fellow guests as much as they like. Many river cruise lines will also offer unique and exclusive experiences, such as extravagant dinners in private castles (sometimes hosted by a member of royalty or aristocracy), wine-tastings in vineyards off the beaten track, or after-hours cocktail receptions and visits in museums.

There’s so many advantages of a river cruise, the only thing left to decide is: which river first?

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Graham and the team would like to welcome you to the Singer Sewing Centre.

Come and discover our large range of textiles and craft supplies.

Haberdashery – Sewing Machines – Fabrics – Wool Opening times: 9am – 5pm Monday – Saturday

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

23

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Health Checks all women should know about...

A

routine blood test last year picked up the fact that I had very high cholesterol. I am 48, healthy, have a low body mass index, eat very little meat, no dairy, and I exercise several times per week, so it had never occurred to me to have my cholesterol levels checked. It turns out I have hypercholesterolaemia – my body makes too much cholesterol, and now I have to take medication to control it so I reduce my risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease in later life.

This got me thinking, and reading. What sort of medical checks should we be considering in our 40s and beyond?

Midlife MOT

The NHS Health Check Programme is a free screening open to anyone aged 40 to 74. It targets the top seven causes of preventable death: high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, cholesterol, poor diet, physical inactivity and alcohol consumption – all the things that are more likely to cause us to become ill as we age and / or die prematurely.

You’ll be asked about your lifestyle and family medical history, and have some blood tests. It was this blood test which showed up my own high cholesterol levels.

Cervical smear

Cervical cancer is most common in women between the ages of 30-35 but a fifth of cervical cancer cases occurred in women over the age of 24

65 so it is vital to have regular smear tests. You should have one every three years between 2549, and every five years after that.

HEALTH & BEAUTY An eye examination can pick up early signs of eye disease, as well as discover whether you need spectacles. Glaucoma and wet macular degeneration in particular have a much better prognosis if picked up in the earliest stages.

Bowel checks

Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK yet accounts for the second highest number of deaths, so it’s essential to have regular tests.

A smear involves taking a small sample from the neck of the womb, called the cervix, to check for any abnormal cells that might lead to cervical cancer. Almost all cervical cancer is caused by the HPV virus, which is initially contracted by sexual activity. It may lay dormant for years before it starts to cause cancerous cells on your cervix. If you have bleeding between periods or after sex you should see your GP.

A test involves submitting a specimen of your stool for analysis through a postal self test kit. The test can detect tiny amounts of blood in the stool which may indicate cancer or precancerous polyps. Polyps can be removed before they go on to cause any harm. Everyone aged 60 to 74 is sent a free home test kit every two years from the NHS, but you can take the test if you are younger than this and it’s a good idea if you have a family history of bowel cancer. You can buy a testing kit from good pharmacies.

Mammogram

Bone density check

Breast awareness is very important at any age, because breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK and affects one in eight women.

A mammogram is an x-ray of both breasts to look for any changes that might suggest cancer.

Depending on where you live you will be called for your first mammogram between the ages of 47 and 53.

Regular self-checking is incredibly important too.

Familiarise yourself with your family history if you can. If you notice any changes to your own breast tissue, such as irregular lumps, bumps, or skin dimpling, book an appointment to discuss it with your GP.

Eye examination

Most healthy people should have an eye examination bi-annually. But if one of your parents has or had glaucoma, or macular degeneration, or you have certain underlying medical conditions such as thyroid dysfunction or diabetes, or you are aged 70+ attending annually is more sensible.

The menopause can seriously affect bone health.

Once we’re over 50 we are at risk of osteoporosis because a drop in oestrogen for a prolonged period can cause a loss in bone mass.

If you have a family history of osteoporosis, are a heavy drinker or smoker, have rheumatoid arthritis or Crohn’s Disease then it is important to have your bone density assessed.

Low radiation X-rays are used to take pictures of your spine and hips while you are lying down. You can also request a ‘bone turnover’ test. This is a urine test which detects whether you’re losing bone mass. If you are you may need calcium or vitamin D supplements.

Remember, prevention is better than cure. Most test results will simply give you peace of mind but if a problem is picked up, treatment is more effective the earlier an issue is identified. Take charge of your health in 2017.

By Louise Addison.

25

HEALTH & BEAUTY

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Advanced cosmetic procedures using electrolysis Effective treatment for skin disorders and blemishes

How important is your health to you and your family?

Find out how healthy you really are and learn how to prevent life-limiting conditions with a personal health check.

Our services include: • General Health Screen* - to assess overall health. Ideal for wellperson checks, planning a pregnancy, or monitoring an exercise programme

Suitable for: • Thread Veins • Milia • Skin Tags • Blood Spots

• Bioresonance Testing - nutrient deficiencies, food sensitivity, toxins, environmental stressors • Medical Tests* - hormones, cholesterol, nutrigenomics, allergies, parasites, nonNHS tests • Phlebotomy Service • Company Health Screening • Health Talks to local groups

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FREEZE YOUR LINES AND STOP TIME • Anti wrinkle treatments to reduce the appearance of fine lines such as frown and forehead wrinkles, crows feet, smokers lines and neck bands • Can also treat migraines and excessive sweating • Younger, smoother looking skin • Dermal fillers for a fuller, natural look

All levels welcome Experienced, highly qualified Instructor

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For further information contact Liz 07816 522200 or elizamm@btinternet.com

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FREE CONSULTATION with Dr. Uma Madhav at Kempston Dental Practice

212 Bedford Road, Kempston, Bedford

Tel: 01234 851192

OFFER 10% Discount when you book in January

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

27

HEALTH & BEAUTY

HD brows involve a high precision procedure that will transform your brow into a perfectly shaped eyebrow, dramatically enhancing your facial features. This isn’t just shaping and tidying – The HD brows procedure is eyebrow artistry!

Are you a brow newbie?

It is always worth getting your first shaping done professionally

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Go with a colour that is similar to your natural tones. Powders are easy to use and you can build up the colour by adding more. Brow pencils are good for defining and a crisper line.

Keep things even!

Using a combination of waxing, threading, tinting and plucking, our stylist will create a brow that’s bespoke to you. If you’re going to do your brows at home, try not to over-pluck and keep them as close to your natural shape as possible!

Our professionally-trained Stylists at Silks will offer a full consultation and a patch test before, then create your perfect brow shape and give you tips on how to maintain them and everyday brow make up at home too.

Keep your appointments regular

Silks Top Tips for Fabulous Brows!

So why not book yourself in to see a Silks High Definition Stylist and let them create your new, beautiful brows?

The key to good brow maintenance is love and attention Fuller, natural brows will enhance your features and facial structure and also highlight facial contours making the face appear longer, shorter, wider or narrower. Give them the same love as your hair!

Adding is much more effective than removing!

A month is recommended at most between professional appointments, so you are not tempted to pluck them yourself at home.

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Rather than plucking out hairs from sparse areas, just fill in any gaps with a good pencil or palette.

Don’t get too carried away with your shaping Women generally make the common mistake of over-plucking, over-arching or using a shade of pencil or tint that just doesn’t complement their hair colour or complexion.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match your products

Book Today on 01234 349046 22 Lime Street, Bedford www.silks.com SilksBedford

valid until January 31st 2017

tackle New Years resolutions. A typical list may look like this; 1) Lose two stone 2) Exercise more 3) Start a new hobby 4) Spend more time with family 5) Save money Presumably the new hobby will involve the family, include exercise and also provide a wage! Chances are we save no money, join a gym which we may visit about 10 times, spend no more time with family and can’t fit time for a hobby in – sound familiar? Here are some quick tips for a more successful New Year.

! n i a g a e m i t t a th INewt’sYears Resolutions –

1) Find your end goal and make suitable landmarks. If you want to lose two stone, start off with the aim to lose for example 5lbs in a month. Smaller steps will soon add up.

2) Make goals more specific, ‘exercise more’ is a very wide aim, but if you specify that you’d like to exercise for 30 mins extra a week, you’ll have more direction.

3) Be realistic- do you enjoy running? If not, you probably won’t succeed at it and then you’ll feel a failure. Think about what you enjoy doing and start from there; in a few months you may find you’re exercising more without having to force yourself plus you’ve found the new hobby!

4) Give yourself a break, big changes take time, one year might not be long enough, but the important thing is you’re committing to improve things for yourself. You’re not a failure and by alleviating the pressure you’ll have a bigger chance of success.

5) And finally, why not also use the end of this year to celebrate the positive things in your life.

It’s all too easy to be negative but change your thinking and you’ll be amazed what a boost it’ll give you.

It’s not easy and it can be difficult to persevere when it feels like a losing battle. But just because things haven’t changed by January 2nd doesn’t mean you won’t achieve the changes you want. So by all means make a list but don’t set it in stone, or curse yourself for any slip ups. If you really want to, you will get there and in the meantime, have a very happy and healthy New Year!

Making them Work

N

ew Years Eve: often highly anticipated and usually a massive anticlimax. Bars and restaurants are suddenly triple the price, the best laid plans often go awry and New Years Day is not only accompanied by a hangover but a big list of things you decided the day before would suddenly be your primary life focus!

New Year’s resolutions are part and parcel of getting to the end of the year, reflecting the twelve months that have past and wondering if we are where we wanted to be. With the dominance of social media, we now also have shiny glittering photos of all our family and friends lives that always look more successful, more

30

fulfilling and generally better than ours. This of course is due to the fact that we only post our highlights on Facebook!

But, ignoring the social side, January 1st is when we decide how we will improve our lives. A fresh slate, a new beginning that we don’t associate with any other time in the calendar.

The most common resolutions are to stop smoking, lose weight and change job. These are three massive life changes; you go to work nearly every day, your weight is mainly linked to your daily diet and exercise regime and if you’re a smoker, you smoke every day. To change such ingrained habits are not easy or quick.

However, we can give ourselves a better chance of success and this year take control of how we 31

Looking for a new challenge

L

in 2017?

ook no further than fostering!

One of the most rewarding yet challenging things that you can do- if you talk to any of our wonderful fostering families they will tell you the same.

FREE information, advice and

Fostering families come in all shapes and sizes, from many backgrounds and all of them do the most amazing work with the young people who need additional care and support, whether it be for a few days or from a young age until they reach independence.

Make that call and just ask the question! Can you foster? – You can foster!

You have full support, training and guidance from a very professional and caring group of people. A paid allowance to help support and provide care for the young people along with the rewards that come from working in this challenging and complex environment!

If you are thinking about becoming a foster carer 2017 might just be the year! www.cffa.co.uk 0808 178 1144

practical help

Working in partnership with

Our Healthy Homes Advisers can give FREE advice on:  How to keep your home warmer  Saving money on energy bills  Supplying and fitting FREE simple energy efficient adaptions  How to claim benefit entitlements  Other help you may be unaware of

We can supply and fit FREE

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of charge:

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Light bulbs

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Draught excluders

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Have you considered

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At Children First Fostering Agency we are currently recruiting caring individuals who want to make a difference to a child or young person’s life.

In return you will receive professional ongoing training, 24 hour support, respite breaks and a generous fostering allowance.

If you are interested in fostering and have a spare room for a child, please contact us at:

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mention “warmer homes” in your email

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

33

FAMILY

SERVICES

£50 OFF ALL INSTALLATIONS mited Time Only!

ffer - Li Bedford Resident O

The New Year is a great time for change, to move forward and to believe in new beginnings. So take some time at the start of 2017 to think about what are your hopes and dreams for the coming year? If one of them is to be a parent, then what about adoption?

For many people the decision to pursue adoption comes after years of soul searching, realising that your deepest wish is to become a parent and make an enormous difference to a child’s life who is in need of a new family.

Adoptionplus is an Ofsted registered “outstanding” adoption agency. We are a small friendly team based near Milton Keynes. We think that we are special because we not only support you through the adoption process and find the right child for you, but our therapy team can offer your family the support you may need, at no cost to yourselves, until your child reaches adulthood.

So if you decide you would like to learn more about adoption and what is involved, call us at Adoptionplus on 01908 218251 and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Or come along to our Adoption Information Morning on Saturday 28th January at 10am in our offices at Moulsoe Business, Centre, Cranfield Road, Moulsoe, Milton Keynes. MK16 0FJ, to hear about the children who need families and meet one of our adopters, call us to book a place. enquiries@adoptionplus.co.uk

• Burglar Alarms • Repairs & Services • CCTV • Gate & Door Access • Fire Detection Systems Serving Bedford and surrounding area for 25 Years!

www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk

Central Bedfordshire Council

12 Triumph Way, Woburn Rd Ind Est, Kempston. MK42 7QB

0800 294 6550 www.acesecurity.co.uk

Quote Bed01 to claim discount before 31.12.16

GETTING DIVORCED? • Speak to specialist divorce lawyer Lisa Smith • Flexible packages and fixed fees offered • Personal service tailored to your needs and budget • Expert legal advice on all aspects of relationship breakdown and divorce Free Initial Consultation - Call us now 01525 632330 info@directaccessfamilylaw.com www.directaccessfamilylaw.com 16 Church Street, Ampthill, BEDS MK45 2EH

www.adoptionplus.co.uk

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

35

V.C.Property Maintenance Ltd

Celebrating 10 Years

In Business

V.C. Property Maintenance Ltd • Brickwork, Refurbishment • Driveways & Patios • Kitchens & Bathrooms • Flooring & Tiling • Carpentry & Joinery

V

.C.Property Maintenance Ltd is based in Bedfordshire, covering Bedfordshire, Milton Keynes, Cambridgeshire, Luton, Hertfordshire and surrounding areas..

We offer services ranging from small maintenance to large dilapidation works and complete major refurbishments.

Our team have over thirty years experience in the building trade which includes tradesmen in Building, Carpentry, Decorating, Electrical (NICEIC), Plumbing (Gas Safety), Locksmith and Warehouse/Property Clearance, which helps us to deliver an outstanding service for each and every one of our clients.

36

We hold a Safecontractor accreditation operated by international health, safety, and environmental risk management specialists, the National Britannia Group.

Please contact us for more information and we look forward to providing a professional and reliable service.

“Every commercial or domestic job is personalised to meet the needs of the customer, and no two jobs are the same. We take pride in our work and complete it to the highest standards” – Vince Castiglione, Managing Director t. 01234 823243 m. 07900 281374 info@vcproperty.uk.com www.vcproperty.uk.com

COM MER & Dom CIAL Refurb estic ishme nt Work

• Locksmith, Windows • Painting & Decorating • Suspended Ceilings & Partitioning • Electrical (NICEIC) • Plumbing & Heating (Gas Safe) • Property Clear-out If you require further information, quotations, or feedback, please do not hesitate to contact our team

10th

Anniversary

ou ThankoY r u to all Clients

t. 01234 823243 m. 07900 281374 info@vcproperty.uk.com www.vcproperty.uk.com

FOOD & DRINK

FOOD & DRINK

THE CROWN WILLINGTON FREE HOUSE

A seasonal start

F

to 2017

resh produce tastes much better when in season and there’s plenty to choose from, even in the winter months. Sandy Boyd from Summerhill Farm Shop in Cardington tells us what to look out for this season.

There’s such a wide variety of seasonal produce, meaning it is possible to inject some colour into your cooking. From hearty root vegetables to bright, sweet citrus fruit, winter produce offers a surprising range of flavours.

Swede is often confused with turnip, as they are both root vegetables and members of the cabbage family. In season from mid-October to late February, Swede has a round shape and a purple-green skin, unlike the creamy-white turnip.

Parsnips are usually only harvested after they have been exposed to the first of the winter frosts, so are at their tastiest at this time of year.

They have an earthy but sweet flavour, making them the ideal winter vegetable.

Great used in hearty winter casseroles or stews, you can also create tasty dishes where parsnips are the star of the show. Try layering blanched parsnips onto a rolled out sheet of puff pastry (leaving a 1cm border around the edges) and drizzle with maple syrup or honey for a mouthwatering savoury tarte tatin.

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REAL ALES, FINE WINE SERVING TRADITIONAL HOMEMADE FOOD FRESHLY PREPARED TO ORDER KIDS MEALS £6.95 INC DRINK & ICE CREAM

With a yellowy-orange flesh that’s sweet and earthy, Swede is delicious when boiled and then mashed with a knob of butter and a dash of salt and pepper. The perfect side to any winter roast dinner!

Although available all year round, Bramley Apples are at their best from January until March.

Considered by many to be the best cooking apple of all, Bramley Apples are delicious in crumbles, apple upside down cake, homemade apple sauce and even stews.

SUNDAY ROASTS FROM £10.95

FULL MENU ON FACEBOOK: THE CROWN WILLINGTON WWW.THECROWNWILLINGTON.COM

Visit Summerhill Farm Shop in Cardington for the best local and seasonal produce at great prices. Go to www.summerhillfarmshop.co.uk

WEDNESDAY IS PASTA & PIZZA NIGHT Two meals plus bottle of house wine £22.95

THURSDAY IS TRADITIONAL WINTER WARMERS NIGHT Two meals plus bottle of house wine £24.95

Wishing everybody a happy new year

FOOD SERVED TUES-SAT 12.00-3.00 & 6.00-9.00 SUN 12.00-4.00 RESERVATIONS TAKEN TEL 01234 831024 ENCLOSED PLAY AREA 5 MINUTE WALK FROM THE GREAT RIVER OUSE 17 STATION ROAD, WILLINGTON, BEDS MK44 3QH

VISIT US IN CARDINGTON FOR THE BEST LOCAL AND SEASONAL PRODUCE

For a twist on the classic combination of pork and apple, try layering slices of apple on a shoulder of pork and cook slowly in a low temperature oven for a wonderfully succulent piece of meat infused with the flavour of apples.

The first crop of rhubarb, which tastes the best in early February, is grown under pots, hence the name ‘forced rhubarb’. With its characteristic tart flavour, rhubarb is treated as fruit though it is actually a vegetable. Too tart to be eaten raw, make sure you cook the rhubarb with plenty of sugar. It also goes well with apples, so why not whip up a rhubarb and apple crumble, with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top, for a tasty dessert?

TUESDAY IS STEAK NIGHT

Two 8oz rump steaks with a bottle of house wine £26.95

Visit us at Cople Road, Cardington, Bedford, MK44 3SH Tel: 01234 831222

Ethically reared local meat, seasonal fruit and vegetables, extensive range of British cheeses, local ales and wines. summerhillfarmshop.co.uk

Mon to Sat 9am-5pm Sunday 10am-4pm

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

39

FOOD & DRINK

Oven-Roasted

cauliflower cheese

R

oasting the cauliflower imparts a lovely sweetness to the dish and the mustard means you need less cheese so it’s better for that postChristmas waistline!

Ingredients

1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets Salt and freshly ground black pepper For the sauce 20g/¾oz unsalted butter 20g/¾oz plain flour Grated nutmeg to taste 250ml/9fl oz skimmed milk 40g/1½oz mature cheddar, finely grated 2 tsp Dijon or wholegrain mustard 15g/½oz parmesan, or similar hard cheese, finely grated

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, Five pies from mash top to suet pudding

Ever w STARTS FRIDAY 6 JANUARY

Served with roasted veg and winter greens

Method

Preheat the oven to 200C / Gas 6. Place the cauliflower florets into an ovenproof dish and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes, or until tender and starting to brown.

Meanwhile, make the sauce by melting the butter in a saucepan, then adding the flour and cooking for 1-2 minutes, or until a light golden colour. Gradually add the milk until smooth, and then cook over a gentle heat for 3-4 minutes stirring constantly until thickened.

Add the grated nutmeg. Reduce the heat then add the mustard and cheddar cheese. Put the roasted cauliflower into the sauce and mix so that all the florets are coated. Pour the cheese and cauliflower mixture back into the roasting dish, sprinkle over the parmesan and return to the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden-brown and the sauce is bubbling.

Serve as a supper dish with a green salad.

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Serve a lunc an dine WWW.COACHHOUSEPOTTON.CO.UK

01767 260221

COMPETITION

SERVICES

42

SERVICES

live happy! with

WIN an Italian Hamper from La Piazza on St Pauls Square

Packed with delicious goodies including pasta & sauce, cheese, salami, olives, wine, beer, cake & more!

Winner Katie Gregory from Castle Road, Bedford

It’s easy to enter…

Simply email your answer along with your address and phone number to teresa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

A) Cooked on the hob b) Grilled c) Baked in the oven

The winner will be selected at random after closing date and announced in the next edition.

What does Al Forno mean?

Closing date: 13-01-17

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Slimming World

Saturday Group

Bedford Town Centre Trinity Chapel, Bedford Sixth Form College Bromham Road, Bedford

Thursday Group

Oakley, Old School Hall, Lovell Road 7.30pm

8.30am 10.30am and 12.30pm

Call Karen on 07841 075100

Please check times for groups over the holiday season

slimmingworld.co.uk

0344 897 8000

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

43

EDUCATION

EDUCATION

MARK RUTHERFORD SCHOOL

Options Choices Careers Evening Thursday 2nd February 2017 5.00 – 6.30 pm Year 9 into 10 with a presentation in the Drama Hall at 5.00pm 7.00 – 8.30 pm Year 11, 12, 13 – Next Steps – with presentations in the Drama Hall from 7.00pm

Thinking about your next steps?

Put your trust in Polam

NURSERY 1-3 YEARS

EARLY YEARS 3-5 YEARS

With so much changing in the education system, it’s good to know there are some things you can rely on Swimming | Music | Languages | PE

KEY STAGE 2 7-9 YEARS

KEY STAGE 1 5-7 YEARS

See website for Open Day dates www.polamschool.co.uk Polam School is part of the Cognita Schools Group www.cognitaschools.com

Telephone: 01234 261864 admissions@polamschool.co.uk 43-45 Lansdowne Road, Bedford MK40 2BU

Looking for different options for A Level or BTEC Level 3 study?

Exploring your pathway beyond school – Apprenticeships; University; Work?

There will be: • Subject stands for GCSE, AS, A Level and BTEC courses • Business stands for possible pathways beyond school • Information on how to become part of our very successful Sixth Form

Crystal Palace Football Academy Exciting news! We will be working with ex-England international and former student

Andy Johnson to bring the Crystal Palace Football Academy to Mark Rutherford School.

The course will start in September 2017 and there will be 20 places for students who meet both the academic criteria and also the football skills criteria. There will be more information to follow as the final arrangements are made.

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St Mark’s Church, Brickhill Preschool & All Day Care Calder Rise, Brickhill, Bedford www.thisispreschool.com Email@ office@thisispreschool.com Telephone 01234 312634

Preschool open 47 weeks a year Open 7.30am - 6.00pm

Children from 2 years - all day care with breakfast, lunch and tea time Free Taster sessions - for appointments contact our Preschool Manager - Mrs Helen Harpin

All Day - £37 Sessions - £12

Mark Rutherford School, Wentworth Drive, Bedford, Bedfordshire MK41 8PX 01234 290200 • mark.rutherford@mrus.co.uk • www.markrutherford.beds.sch.uk

St Mark’s is not run for profit we are a registered charity (1164416) offering child care since 1974

Please mention bedslife when responding to adverts

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

45

SERVICES

SERVICES

Where to...

Learn in 2017

A

lways wanted to learn something new but never got round to it?

Make this the year to learn a new skill. There are plenty of options.

Bedford College offer a wide range of full or part time courses whatever your interest or hobby.

You can also study for professional courses and qualifications if you are looking for a change of career.www.bedford.ac.uk/adult-learners

FIRST OFFICIAL BEDFORD

JUNIOR PARKRUN FOR YOUNGSTERS U14 2K IN DISTANCE

SUNDAY 8 JANUARY TH

JUBILEE PARK, MOULTON AVENUE, BEDFORD MK42 0JD RUN STARTS AT 9AM - MEET NEAR THE SKATE PARK IF YOU ARE U14 TER PLEASE REGISAT FOR FREE

K ARKRUN.ORG.U WWW.PRE / GISTER/

REFRESHMENTS WILL BE AVAILABLE FAMILIES ARE WELCOME TO RUN TOGETHER ONLY CHILDREN U14 WHO HAVE REGISTERED ONLINE WILL GET A TIME FOR THEIR RUN

LL PRODUCE REGISTERING WI SURE TO A BAR CODE - BETH YOU BRING IT WI

Follow us on Twitter:@youjustturnup #Get Inspired Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/bedfordsportsdevelopment For further enquiries, please call: 01234 718825 or email sport@bedford.gov.uk

If it’s more creativity that you enjoy, try Bedford Arts and Crafts Centre. From drawing and pottery to acrylics and life drawing, you can relax and meet new people too. www.bedfordcraftscentre.co.uk The REC, Rothsay Education Centre, is a charity dedicated to providing educational, social and recreational opportunities for anyone 50 and over and not in full-time employment. They also offer weekend and summer courses to anyone aged 18 or over. www.recbedford.co.uk Or you could try a new language? Whether its’s brushing up your skills or as a complete novice, The Bedford Language Centre aims to teach all ages in a fun and relaxed way including French, Spanish, Italian, German, Polish, Portuguese and English. www.bedfordlanguagecentre.co.uk

Join us for a truly unique journey

N

orth Bedford is soon to benefit from the opening of a new BCS Primary School; St Joseph’s & St Gregory’s. Mr Bishop, BCS Executive Principal explains how 'at a time where many schools are newly emerging as Primaries, St Joseph’s Lower and St Gregory’s Middle are long established in Bedford with proven success in lower and upper Primary.’

Lisa Sumpter, head designate of the new school said ’I am delighted that what has always been a very strong partnership, resulting in outstanding outcomes for children, will now become seamless from nursery through to the end of primary education and beyond’

Both sites will remain open and are linked with a new pathway taking just a 3 minute walk. Children and their families will benefit from excellent facilities across both sites including a trainer swimming pool; dedicated art, cookery, music, science and sports facilities; in-house catering and extended before and after school care. Year 6 Students are guaranteed a place at the outstanding St Thomas More Secondary to continue their BCS journey.

To find out more about the Bedford Catholic Schools community please visit www.bedfordcatholicschools.org.

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BEDFORD CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

JOIN US FOR A TRULY UNIQUE JOURNEY APPLY NOW TO START SEPTEMBER 2017 St Joseph’s & St Gregory’s Nursery & Primary St John Rigby Primary St Thomas More Secondary St Thomas More Sixth Form

bedfordcatholicschools.org/admissions BedsLife – St Joseph's &To St advertise Gregory's Advert C.indd 1 get in touch – www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk with us please

02/12/2016 14:30 47

WHAT'SON Your essential guide to activities, clubs, events and lots more in your area. There’s something for everyone!

ARTS, CULTURE & TALKS Bedford Art Society Friday 6th January 7.15 for 7.30pm start Maxine Copeland will talk to us about linocut, her principal medium. She is interested in pattern and structure and in the play of light and dark.

Entry is free for members, £5 for visitors.

Contact Jean Paterson 01234 307210 or www.bedsartsociety.co.uk for information Bedfordshire Family History Society Friday 6th January 7.15 p.m.

Interested in Family History? Come along to our next monthly talk on ‘A Nazi in the Family’ given by Derek Neimann held in the Drama Hall of Mark Rutherford School, Wentworth Drive, Bedford MK41 8PX Members free, visitors £1. www.bfhs.org.uk Shakespeare and the Globe Tuesday 10th January 7.30pm Illustrated talk by Patrick Spottiswoode Director of Education at the Globe Theatre, London. Patrick is a brilliant speaker who has been with the Globe for over 30 years. He will cover not only the huge range of work performed at the theatre but also how its educational work reaches out to schools, higher education colleges and communities far and wide to bring Shakespeare alive. Bedford School Library, de Parys Ave, Burnaby Rd gate. Free to HA members (Historical AssociationBedford). Others welcome with a donation.

Details 07989 837819/01234 266839 Bedford Local Group of The Wildlife Trust Wednesday 11th January Meeting 7-30 pm 'An Introduction to the Moths of Bedfordshire' an illustrated talk by Andy and Melissa Banthorpe All welcome, no charge but voluntary contributions are appreciated.

Further details available under Events on www.wildlifebcn.org or at 01234 266057 Priory Methodist Church Hall, Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ. Plenty parking available.

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Bedford Architectural, Archaeological, & Local History Society Wednesday 11th January 7:30pm Illustrated talk: "Roman Complex at Manton Lane in Bedford – Overview and Latest Research Findings" Steven Cockings (UNAS) & Elizabeth Sayer (BAALHS) Non-members welcome – £2-00 entry Enquiries (01234) 365095 Putnoe Heights Church & Community Centre Bedford MK41 8EB. www.baalhs.org.uk Bedford National Trust Association Tuesday, 17th January at 2.30pm The speaker will be Michael Brown, “ The Historic Gardener”.His topic is “Death in the Garden”, poisonous plants, myths, magic and murder.Be warned, many of these plants may be growing in YOUR garden.

It costs £2.50 to attend and a little more if you are a guest. Tea and biscuits will be served.

If you decide to come you will have a warm welcome.

For more information contact Betty Thomas on 01480 860 421.

The meeting is in the Addison Centre in Kempston.

Bedford RSPB Local Group Thursday 19th January 7.30 Martin Davies presents: ‘Wildlife of Turkey’ The richness of birds, mammals, dragonflies & flowers clearly shows the diversity of the wildlife of Turkey.

Suitable for Experts and Novices, RSPB membership not essential. Entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 annual group membership £5 ARA club Manton Lane Bedford MK41 7PF. www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford

CLASSES, CLUBS & GROUPS Linedancing Mondays at Priory Methodist Church Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ Beginners/Improvers (Absolute Beginners Welcome) 7.30pm – 8.30pm Starts 9th January 2017 www: http://dancingstars.comli.com/ Tele:07969847553 Kempston and District Model Railway Society Meets every Monday from 7.30pm-10pm At the Church of the Transfiguration rear church hall.

New members welcome.

Contact Brian Woodcock on 07795251988 or brianwoodcock@btinternet.com Silver lining Club for the silver haired.

Park Road Methodist Church Roff Avenue, opposite the high flats. Number 10 bus stops outside.

FREE. 2pm-4pm every first Tuesday of the month.

Various activities or just sit and chat with a cup of tea or coffee

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Over 70’s Gentle Exercise Classes Every Monday and Wednesday (except bank holidays) Mondays – Bedford Central Library (3rd floor meeting room) Wednesday – Bedford International Athletics Stadium. £4 per session Tel 01234 718835 www.bedford.gov.uk/sport

teenagers and activities include: Art and crafts, board games, outside play in the warmer months and hanging out with friends!

Pine Cones Family Centre, (behind Livingstone Lower School) Clapham Road, Bedford.

For further information please contact the club leader Jeff Smith on 07798 762 808.

Rotary Club of Bedford de Parys Meet for breakfast every Tuesday at The Embankment Hotel 7.15am for 7.30am start.

Fellowship, fundraising and interesting speakers www.bedforddeparysrotary.co.uk

MENCAP – Sparkle Club Wednesdays in term time between 7.00pm – 9.00pm a social club for adults with learning disabilities. It is held on Putnoe Primary School, Church Lane, Bedford MK41 0DH. Bedfordshire Family History Society welcomes new members at their monthly meetings held in the Drama Hall of Mark Rutherford School, Wentworth Drive, Bedford MK41 8PX on the 1st Friday of every month but see under What’s On for details of this month’s talk given by an invited expert in genealogy. Members free, visitors £1. Contact Lynn on 01234 306482 www.bfhs.org.uk

Scottish Country Dancing – Beginners class.

Tuesday evenings 8pm -10pm ARA Social Club, Manton Lane, Bedford £2.50 per session, first evening free. Singles welcome No experience/partners needed. Wear soft shoes.

Keith Rose 01234 781448 keith@krose.plus.com Bedfordshire Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers.

Meetings:- 1st Tuesday evening each month 7.30 – 9.30pm 3rd Saturday 10.30am. – 4.30pm each month.

A friendly group of lovers of textile related crafts have changed venue to Flitwick Village Hall, 11 Dunstable Rd, Flitwick, Bedford MK45 1HP Local Friendship Group Welcomes new members We meet at a local public house every Wednesday at 8pm Call 07790 904736 or 07925 910639 Email: friendshipclub365@gmail.com Enjoy Irish Ceili and Set Dancing.

Every Wednesday 8 pm to 10 pm at the Reading Room, 1, Barkers Lane, Bedford. £2 per session – first evening free. No partner required.

Beginners welcome.

Ring Pat [01234 308224] for more details.

Evening Handcraft – Knitting, Stitching and lots of other hand crafts 4th/18th January – 1st & 3rd Wednesday of most months.

Enjoy craft and good conversation with a relaxed group who support one another. Plus a whole craft shop to shop in if you want to. £4.75 per session which includes any drink off the O For Coffee menu.

Tudor Rose Patchwork Unit 1, Oakley Park, Station Road, Oakley MK43 7RB Phone 01234 824983 for further details.

MENCAP – Smiley Club Wednesdays 7pm – 8.30pm A fun social club for boys and girls from 9 to 18 who have learning disabilities.

The club has a band of loyal volunteers, mostly

Bedford Pipe Band welcome new members.

Thursdays 7.30pm – 9.30pm Friendly & relaxed group beginners to experienced.

St John’s Church hall (MK42 0DL), Bedford.

Contact Pipe Major Donald Reid 01234 268475 Mrs. Barrett (Band Secretary) 01234 360967 www.bedfordpipeband.org.uk Bedford Gallery Quire 1st, 3rd, 5th Thursday of each month 7.30 pm Priory Methodist Church, Newnham Ave, Bedford We welcome those interested in singing/playing'West Gallery’ music from the early 18th century to the mid19th century. www.bedfordgalleryquire.org.uk Contact Ken Baddley 01234 310018 Bedford Folk Dance Company Meet Thursday eve 8 – 10 pm.

We are a friendly Country and Folk Dance Club Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford MK41 8EB It’s good fun for only £2.50 incl. Refreshments No partner required Ron Law 01234 825574 www.bedfordfolkdanceclub.com Magpie Ladies Group A friendly group who meet on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month at 7.30 pm At St Mark’s Church, Calder Rise, Brickhill. (No meetings in August) Guest Speakers and social events Tea/Coffee and cake included. New members welcomed. Please Contact: Rosemary 01234 405594 or Barbara 01234 304960 Art Friends – New Art Group Art for Fun and Friendship For All Every Thursday 9.30am – 12.30pm Bromham Baptist Church. Enquiries please call Jackie 01234 825663 / 07880 518465

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

49

WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON

Flower School Thursday evenings 5pm – 7pm April Flowers, 90 High Street, Clapham Various arrangements covered with a demo followed by the opportunity for students to complete the same design which they can take home.

Booking essential Call Amy on 01234 343335 / 07794 827137 P.M Bridge Group First and third Thursdays of each month 11am to 2.45pm Friendly duplicate bridge Good standard buffet lunch £6 including lunch, tea or coffee. Renhold Village Hall.

Tel Ann on 01234 212066 Linedancing Thursdays Kempston Hammers Social And Sports Club 134 High Street High Street Kempston Bedford MK42 7BN Beginners/Improvers (Absolute Beginners Welcome) 7.00pm – 8.00pm Starts 5th January 2017 Improver/Intermediate 8.00pm – 10.00pm www: http://dancingstars.comli.com/ Tele:07969847553 Bedford Fine Companions Folk Dance Club We are a long established folk dance club who meet every Friday in term time from 8pm to 10pm at Hazeldene School Bedford MK41 9AT (use Hartshill entrance). No partner required. Contact David Cooke on 01234 823920, www.finecompanions.synthasite. com or find us on Facebook Friday Daubers This friendly group of amateur daubers meets at 5 Lansdowne Road Bedford every Friday between 1pm and 4pm to spend a few hours enjoying our hobby.

Between us we use a variety of media. If you enjoy drawing and/or painting why not join us. If you are interested why not contact one of us to find out more – Anne 07548 840856 or Jenny 01234 824568 or email Marianne marianne.sellers@virginmedia.com

COMMUNITY / CHARITY EVENTS Table Top Sale at Christ the King Church Sat 21st Jan and Sat 18th Feb 9am to noon Entry 50p. Children free Refreshments available Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP Great Barford Quiz Night Friday 20th January In the Village Hall, bar open from 7pm, quiz starts 7.30pm, £7 per person including fish & chips supper, teams of 4, book your team with Louise 01234 870443.

Quiz night at Christ the King Church, Fri 27th January 7.30pm Tickets £6.50 includes fish & chip supper Tickets available from 01234 965497 Bar, Raffle. Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP Bedford Farmers Market Every 2nd and last Thursday of the month Local producers market with a range of fresh locally produced supplies.

Harpur Square Bedford 8.30am – 3pm

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A Different Brew – A Cafe with a difference 106 Clapham Road, Bedford Licensed to sell alcohol with food.

Sunday menu includes a roast, different meat each week. Staffed by adults with learning difficulties working both front and back of house.

A Different Brew is a project of Beds Garden Carers (BGC) Find us on Facebook Beds Garden Carers – Learning Disabilities Charity. Tel 01234 341925

HEALTH & WELLBEING Bedford Macular Support Group Third Monday of each month at 10:30 am.

Volunteer Centre, 43 Bromham Road Offering practical and emotional support to people suffering central vision loss or Macular Disease.

Speakers on a range of related topics.

Info 01234 781372 Hearts In Beds Cardiac Support Group First Tuesday each month 7pm Priory Methodist Church Halls, Newnham Ave, Bedford, MK41 9QJ (We hold a gentle exercise session from 7 – 7-30 pm under a qualified trainer. Everyone welcome, you don't need to have a cardiac condition to join us.

Raffle at the end of the evening.

Contact Sid Luff, 01234 404671 or Ted Jolliffe 01 234 327791 for further details of the Group.

MUSIC, DANCE & THEATRE St Andrew’s Church presents: Sing-along Jungle Book New Years Day – Sunday 1st January 3pm Start 2017 with a sing-along to a Disney Classic Popcorn and soft drinks will be available along with Fairtrade tea and Coffee from the St Andrew’s Fairtrade Shop. We hope that you will be able to join us for what promises to be an afternoon of fun, laughter and singing. No need to book, just come along. Entrance is just £1 per person, so why not dress up and bring a friend along to monkey around.

St Andrew’s Church in Kimbolton Road, Bedford.

Beguiled by Betjeman Saturday 7th January at 3.00pm A Concert with Sir John Betjeman’s Poetry mostly in musical settings by John Gould, Donald Swann & Paul Edwards Featuring Four singers, narrator and accompanist St Owen’s Church, Bromham Entry via Bromham Park at MK43 8LL Adults £8 – u16 £3 Tickets from 01234 825454 (mornings) or 01234 826551 (evenings) Bedford Organ and Keyboard Club Wednesday 25 January 7.30 – 10.00 pm Present MARK THOMPSON in Concert Members £5 Non-Members £6 Pay at door Addison Centre, Kempston, Bedford Tel: 01234 344423. www.organfax.co.uk/clubs/bedford

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SPORTS & OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES RSPB Winter Wonderland Walk Monday 2 January 10:30am – 12:30pm A bracing walk to blow away the Christmas and New Year celebrations and see what wildlife is about as we start the New Year at The Lodge.

Keep the Christmas spirit alive by enjoying hot mulled wine and mince pies around the open fire at the end of the walk. Costs including mulled wine and mince pie; RSPB members £6, non-members £8, RSPB Wildlife Explorers £3, children under 14 £4.

Booking essential Tel 01767 693333 The Lodge nature reserve The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 2DL RSPB The Big Garden Birdwatch warm up event at The Lodge Saturday 21st Jan 11 am – 2 pm Sunday 22nd Jan 11 am – 2pm The RSPB’s annual Big Garden Birdwatch will be held on January 28/29/30 and we are holding a warm up event at The Lodge to get prepared for the biggest weekend in the RSPB calendar. Wrap up snugly and join our friendly RSPB staff and volunteers to get useful tips on identifying the birds coming to the feeders, information on the Big Garden Birdwatch survey, giving nature a home and feeding your garden birds.

Join a guided walk setting off at intervals throughout the event to search for the birds that spend the winter on the reserve. There will be a binocular and telescope demonstration throughout the event and children can get mucky hands by making fat balls to take home to feed their own garden birds. While you are here, top up your RSPB bird food ready for the following weekends survey. Hot soup for sale, along with a range of hot drinks, sandwiches and snacks from the RSPB shop.

Donations welcome on the day, small charge for fat balls and guided walks. Car park and reserve entrance charges apply to non-RSPB members Booking not required Bedford Parkrun every Saturday Meet at The Bandstand at 9am.

Join us for a 5km run around the park (dogs, children and buggies all welcome).

Register for free on the Parkrun UK website http://www.parkrun.org.uk Rambling Club We're a friendly walking group who meet on a Sunday morning for a 5/6 mile walk.

For further information or a copy of our programme please contact brclub75@yahoo.co.uk or phone 01234 360769.

Ouse Valley Archers Currently offering a four week introduction in target archery. Courses run by Archery GB approved coaches and all equipment is provided. For experienced archers or those who have completed a beginners course the club shoots indoors/outdoors on Tuesday & Thursday 7.00pm – 9.00pm and Sunday 2.00pm – 4.00pm at Putnoe Primary School & Field Bedford For further details visit our website or contact info@ ousevalleyarchers.com

Walking Football Summer sessions at Bedford Cricket Club Mondays 7-8pm Thursdays 2-3pm For more information and to book a place please email: info@walkingfootballleagues.co.uk Mowsbury Park Bowling Club Try lawn bowls for FREE any Wednesday or Friday 2pm to 4.30pm.

Just bring flat shoes.

For more info about our club please contact Anne Haynes on 01234 211828 or visit our NEW web site www.mowsburyparkbowlsclub.co.uk Health Walks – Forest of Marston Vale Wednesdays 10.30am Free, no need to book. Most walks start at Reception but some elsewhere – see notice board or ring 01234 767037. The Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine, Beds MK43 0PR Bedford FC Mini Soccer Club Every Saturday at Goldington Academy 10.30am till 12.15pm.

Open to boys and girls aged 4-10yrs.

Cost per child £3.00 and £5 for two children.

Our sole aim is to provide children of all abilities with a unique footballing experience, developing their physical, social and communication skills in a safe environment. Full usage of toilet and changing facilities and plenty of car parking spaces. www.bedfordfcminisoccer.com.

Bedford Girls and Ladies FC We are a voluntary sports club for girls age 8 and upwards. If you’d like to find out more info please call Jill on 01234 772668 or 07850540631.

Mander Badminton Club Friendly badminton club looking for new members of a reasonable standard Every Tuesday evening 7-9pm at Bedford Modern School Sports Hall Visitors £5 per session – 1st Session free Contact Anita Watson Tel: 01234 930047

BedsLife Magazine cannot be held responsible for any changes, amends or cancellations of an event.

To list your event in February please email christa@ bedslifemagazine.co.uk

by Monday 16th January

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

51

Prebend Charity Concert St Andrew’s Church Bedford

SatURDAY 21st January at 7.30pm

BE STRONGER, BRAVER AND PINKER!

JOIN RACE FOR LIFE BEDFORD 2017

Bedford Great Ouse Orchestra and Choir conducted

by Christopher Ridley

B

Programme

• Schumann Requiem fur Mignon • Schubert Tantum Ergo in E flat • Mozart Ave Verum • Brahms How lovely are thy dwellings • Martynov “Come in” Violin Soloist - Emily Groom • Ligeti Romanian Concerto

TICKETS £10

On-line: eventbrite.co.uk ‘Prebend Charity Concert’ (Note £1.15 booking fee) Tel: 07970 751270

FOLLOW US

Facebook: Great Ouse Orchestra Charity Concert Twitter: @PrebendConcert BeCHAR Charity No. 1006938

edford women are being urged to get the New Year off to a great start by signing up now to Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life 2017.

One in two people in the UK will be diagnosed with cancer at some stage in their lives, but the good news is more people are surviving the disease now than ever before. Survival rates have doubled since the early 1970s.

The charity is calling on all women to show cancer who’s boss by choosing their event – Race for Life 5k, 10k or Pretty Muddy 5k or the brand new Pretty Muddy 10k and committing to take part at Priory Park this summer.

Cara said “We’re delighted to bring Pretty Muddy back to Bedford with the addition of the new Pretty Muddy 10k!. Last year, over 4600 women took part in Bedford and raised a fantastic £271,000 and this year, we need 4800 women and girls to stride out to help raise even more.

Although January is the perfect opportunity to start a new chapter in terms of health and fitness, motivation can slip as the cold weather drags on.

In association with the Prebend C.R.I.B appeal

Pretty Muddy will take place on Saturday 01 July and the 5k and 10k events will take place on Sunday 02 July so women who sign up now will create their own compelling goal to aim for the summer.

Cara Waller, Cancer Research UK’s Bedford Event Manager, said: “Race for Life is a great way for women of all ages to commit to get a little more active. The events are non-competitive and not about being fit or fast. Participants can choose to walk, jog, or run around the course at their own pace and planning to raise money for life-saving research could prove more of a fitness goal than the usual New Year’s resolution to shift the postChristmas pounds.”

Cara continued: “Race for Life is an amazing way to celebrate everyone we love who has survived cancer. It’s also an emotional and moving way to pay tribute to those dear to us whose lives have been cut short by the disease.

“Our participants make Race for Life a truly uplifting, inspiring experience. That’s why we’re calling on women of all ages to sign up now to their event in Bedford and pledge to stand together, shoulder to shoulder, on the front line against cancer. Together, we can unleash a powerful fighting spirit to stop cancer in its tracks.”

To enter Race for Life today visit raceforlife.org or call 0300 123 0770.

53

n this month t's oTheatre WhataMK SHANE RICHIE TO STAR AS ROY GRACE IN THE WORLD STAGE PREMIERE OF PETER JAMES PLAY NOT DEAD ENOUGH

F

ollowing his role in the hugely successful nationwide tour of The Perfect Murder earlier this year alongside Jessie Wallace, award-winning actor Shane Richie is now set to star as Peter James’ famous literary Detective Superintendent Roy Grace alongside Laura Whitmore as Cleo Morey in Not Dead Enough. The third thrilling stage adaptation of multi-million selling author Peter James’ novel receives its world stage premiere in January 2017 and arrives at Milton Keynes Theatre 30 Jan – 04 Feb Shane said “I’m thrilled to be asked to play one of the most interesting and innovative characters of modern times in policing. It’s an honour to be asked to play Detective Superintendent Roy Grace.”

Peter James said; “I’m really delighted Shane Richie is going to be playing the role of Detective Superintendent Roy Grace. Shane is a wonderful actor and I think he has that combination of warmth, toughness and deeply innate compassionate

humanity that defines Roy. We first discussed him playing the role three years ago, and I could not be happier it has finally come to fruition. I can’t wait to work with Shane again and I’m excited by the combination of Shane and Laura Whitmore on stage together.”

Not Dead Enough is the third novel in the award winning Roy Grace series and now becomes the third play in his box office smash hit and critically acclaimed stage franchise. James has been acclaimed as ‘one of the most fiendishly clever crime fiction plotters’ (Daily Mail) and his brilliant international bestselling Roy Grace novels have been published in 37 languages and sold over 18 million copies worldwide

SERVICES

T

Without your help and support we would not have reached the fantastic figure of £71,800.00 and this figure is still growing day by day as the count continues. These funds will be used to support the British Armed forces here in the UK and abroad, with financial support and rehabilitation from physical injury and mental illness to help them with the transition back into civilian life.

You may have also seen the Bedford Poppy Shop in the Harpur Centre since October and we will be in the centre until Easter 2017 with our displays changing and rotating throughout that time. Please feel free to drop in and we will be

If you have missed the opportunity to volunteer over the Poppy Appeal and would like to still contribute, we run fundraising events throughout the year where you can get involved. For more information on volunteering or becoming a member of The Royal British Legion please do either call or email on the contact information below.

Finally all the Branch Officers and Members of The Royal British Legion, Bedford and District Branch would like to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Chairman of the Royal British Legion, Bedford and District Branch Tel: 07513 418517 or email Bedforddistrict.chairman@rbl.community www.britishlegion.org.uk

Plant a tree in Cranfield on Sunday 12th Feb

On the night Brian Bishop murdered his wife, he was sixty miles away, asleep in bed. At least that’s what he claims. But as Detective Superintendent Roy Grace continues to deal with the mysterious disappearance of his own wife, he starts to dig a little deeper into the chilling murder case and it soon becomes clear that love can be a dangerous thing…

Performances: 30 Jan – 04 Feb Mon – Sat eves

7.30pm, Wed & Sat Mats 2.30pm Prices: Tickets from £15 (£16.90 online/phone) bkg fee)* Box Office: 0844 871 7652 (bkg fee)* Groups Hotline: 01908 547609 Access Booking: 0844 871 7677 (bkg fee)* Online Booking: www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes (bkg fee)

handing out advice and guidance information for those who require it. There will also be different items on sale for you to purchase or donate and even some visiting companies and Craftsmen where all their proceeds are donated to the Poppy Appeal.

he Royal British legion, Bedford and District Branch would like to thank all the volunteers and members of the public for this year’s Poppy Appeal.

Join us anytime between 11am and 3pm, and help plant another small wood in the Forest of Marston Vale – something you and your children can enjoy for decades to come. We’ve already planted over 1 million trees and you can help us towards our target of 5 million more!

A ffree bus shuttle service will bring people in from the Forest Centre but if you live nearby it will be easier to walk or cycle. The main access point will be on Lodge Road, Cranfield – look out for the flags. Please don’t drive to the site as there isn’t any parking nearby. Toilets and refreshments will be provided.

Love Your Forest

For the latest information call 01234 767037, info email us: info@marstonvale.org or visit our website: www.marstonvale.org

Our future is growing

*Calls cost 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge. Online and phone bookings also carry a transaction fee of £2.85 (excluding Theatre Card & Groups)

54

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

55

Book

Film

The

Review

review…

The Autopsy of Jane Doe

ODELLS SHOES Sales & Traditional Repair Services Established 1917 Stockists: Loakes quality men’s shoes and Cosyfeet extra roomy for problem feet

I do not really like Horror films, they are often clichéd and have become a genre where the idea is to make you jump with sudden noises rather than creeping you out or trying to actually scare you.

Jane Doe is as much a thriller as a horror and it really works in bringing that creepy aura, that feeling of wondering what is going on and that real worrying tingle down your spine as you watch it.

It has a simple premise… Brian Cox and Emile Hirsch are father & son coroners in small town America and late one night the Sheriff brings in a female body and asks them to autopsy it/her & tell him how she died… that it uses to incredible effect. It builds tension continually, revealing little details bit by, and ups the creepiness continually.

Directed by the man behind Trollhunter it is a film that really knows how to keep you on the edge of your seat while also wondering what on earth is going on. It is probably the best example of a horror/thriller I have seen in a long time and is well worth seeing.

Simon White 56

18/01/2016 15:43

Limited

Offering a wide variety of services, including: • • • • • • • •

Commercial & Domestic Skip Hire 2 yard - 20 yard skips We r ec 14 yard enclosed skips at le ycle ast Grab service Wait & Load % of w Same Day Service a rece ste ived 20 yard - 40 yard ro/ro bins Account facilities available

85

Recycling Rubbish Reclaiming Resources

Tel: 01234 843326

by Graeme Simsion There have been several novels published in recent years which feature an autistic character; The Rosie Project is one of them.

8 St Cuthberts Street, Bedford MK40 3JB Telephone: 01234 358979

Oddells OVL.indd 1

The Rosie Project

Don is a scientist working at a university in Australia. In his late 30s he is single and largely contented. His day is meticulously mapped out, and routine is a part of everything he does. He is never early (a waste of precious time) or late (rude and puts everything out of time), and can’t abide small talk. He also has lobster every Tuesday.

As the novel opens he is lecturing on Aspergers at a conference but it is not a lecture from a personal perspective. Don is undiagnosed yet many friends and parents of those on the spectrum will identify his traits.

A chance conversation with the conference organiser leads him to consider if he can apply scientific methodology to the search for a suitable partner, and The Wife Project is born.

Readers will warm to Don, and his naïve approach to relationships and life in general, and anyone who is currently negotiating the dating minefield might wonder if it would all be easier with the aid of his questionnaire?

Email: richesskips@aol.com www.paul-riches-skips.com

57

Senior Snippets

C

Keeping warm indoors and out

old weather makes us more vulnerable to flu and other respiratory problems and can raise blood pressure. Blood pressure takes longer to return to normal in older people after being out in the cold. You’re at risk of a heart attack, a stroke or even hypothermia if you’re exposed to a cold environment for a long time, or to extreme cold for only a short time.

• Keep your hands and face warm. As well as gloves and a hat, wrap a scarf around your face when you go out in cold weather, even for short intervals. This helps to warm the air you breathe.

• Several thin layers of clothing are warmer than one thick layer. Wool or fleecy synthetic fibres such as polyester are a better choice than cotton.

• When sitting, a shawl or blanket provides a lot of warmth. Try to keep your feet up, as the air is cooler at ground level.

• Wear warm clothes in bed like thermal underwear, bed socks and even a hat – a lot of heat is lost through your head.

• Keep your feet warm. Choose boots with nonslip soles and a warm lining, or wear thermal socks.

• Keep your main living room around 70°F (21°C), and the rest of your home at least 64°F (18°C).

Home Instead Senior Care, 106A Bedford road, Wootton, Bedford, MK43 9JB. Tel 01234 868820.

Do you have a caring & compassionate nature?

Then you should talk to us.

We are looking for Caregivers to assist the elderly with non-medical services including companionship, home help and personal care in their own home. No experience is required as we provide full training.

01234 868820

Suite 2, 106A Bedford Road, Wootton, Bedford, MK43 9JB

www.homeinstead.co.uk/Bedford 58

• • • • • •

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

• Wood Burning Stoves • Multi Fuel Stoves • Chimney Lining • Twin Wall Flue Systems • Installation and Supply • Fireplace Renovations • Stove Accessories • Trade sales welcome

FREE DELIVERY & COLLECTION SERVICE Call Rachel:

07889 516044

ALL DUVETS WASHED, DRIED & PACKED

Open 7 days a week FROM £15 – BEST PRICE IN TOWN From 7:30am until 9:00pm

SHOWROOM NOW OPEN

Monday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday – 10am – 5pm Other Days/Out of hours by prior arrangement

• Contact your local Age UK for a benefits check and advice on any eligible financial support.

CAREGivers Required

Contact us on Home Instead Senior Care

SERVICES

19A ELSTOW ROAD, BEDFORD. MK42 9NU

Unit 2 Home Farm Court, The Street, Diddington, St Neots, PE19 5XT info@cromwellstoves.co.uk 01480 812281 | 07786 854946

www.cromwellstoves.co.uk

AromaClean offer a friendly, reliable & honest domestic cleaning service tailored to your needs Police Checked & Fully Insured Cromwell stoves 1/4 page.indd 1

30/07/2015 17:31

Taking care of all your home cleaning...

Are you looking for flexible and rewarding part-time work?

Please mention bedslife when responding to adverts

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

59

SERVICES

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

61

R FO

SERVICES

LE SA

BROMHAM PAINTING & DECORATING

& HOME IMPROVEMENTS FULL PROFESSIONAL SERVICE FULLY INSURED FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTATIONS ON REQUEST NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR EXTERNAL WORK CONTACT US ON 01234 822651 07748 032051

FROM THIS...

Give your property a pre sale makeover for just £10 per week with Viking Self Storage.

STILL SOME AVAILABILITY LEFT FOR EXTERNAL WORK – BOOK NOW!

COMMUNITY PUBLISHING ...the full media solution from design to production to print

Self-Employed Advertising Sales Consultant Required (Home Based) We are seeking an enthusiastic, experienced, sales person to join Community Publishing Ltd. This is an exciting opportunity as we produce a number of publications and are looking to launch new ones.

As a home based, commission only role, you will have the flexibility of the hours you work.

62

Requirements You will have a confident and professional telephone manner and be comfortable speaking to different types of people.

Friendly with good communication skills.

Be self-motivated and able to work under your own initiative and to meet deadlines.

For an initial conversation please call 07429 136815 or email teresa@communitypublishing.co.uk or christa@communitypublishing.co.uk

Please mention bedslife when responding to adverts

LD SO

You will need your own PC, internet access and telephone.

...TO THIS!

Package This is a commission only role offering a generous (uncapped) commission package.

PETS

What makes Acorn House Vets so special?

• We have 24h emergency service provided by our own vets in our own premises • We are the only Gold Standard Cat Friendly clinic in Bedfordshire - see www.icatcare.org • We have a member of staff on site 24/7 to look after hospitalised pets • We are locally owned – we are not part of a corporate chain • We are happy to make home visits

Chemotherapy

M

for pets?

eet Finbar – a gorgeous 10-year-old tabby and white cat who visited Acorn House Veterinary Surgery in August because he had lost his appetite. An ultrasound scan and needle biopsy showed that Finbar had a cancer of his intestinal wall, known as feline lymphoma.

Fortunately, lymphoma often responds well to chemotherapy. Chemotherapy destroys the cancer cells, wherever they are in the body, and makes the patient feel well again.

Understandably, owners often worry about whether they should choose chemotherapy for their pet. In human medicine chemotherapy tends to be used at high doses in an effort to cure cancer completely. This aggressive treatment often causes unpleasant side effects.

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

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

In veterinary medicine, we do not think that it is acceptable to use chemotherapy in this way – pets cannot understand or choose to feel ill for a short period in the hope that they will feel better later on. Therefore, we tend only to use the less aggressive chemotherapy medications, and we use them at a lower dose than is used in people.

The disadvantage of this approach is that we do not usually expect to permanently cure cancers with our chemotherapy. Instead we aim to put the cancer into remission to give the pet months or years of good quality life before the cancer comes back.

Finbar responded well to chemotherapy – he regained his appetite and the weight that he had lost, and a repeat scan showed that his cancer had shrunk. Finbar now visits the surgery for 45 minutes every fortnight for a blood test and chemotherapy injection. His owners give him a tablet every other day at home. His affectionate nature and regular visits have made him a bit of a star at the surgery! The rest of the time, Finbar can just get on with enjoying his life as normal.

Not all cancers can be treated with chemotherapy and it is not suitable for every pet. If you would like further information, please do not hesitate to contact the Acorn House team on 01234 261839.

65

Take Me Home

PETS

OPEN FOR ADOPTION

Cats Protection Bedford and Biggleswade

Domino

Bianca

Bertie

Long time stray looking for a home to call his own

Friendly easy-going, loving cat wants to find someone who can help her enjoy life again

Long term stray looking for a home with a sunny spot

When any cat leaves Cats Protection, they will have been microchipped, neutered (if old enough) and vaccinated. We also provide four weeks’ free insurance (terms and conditions apply) giving invaluable peace of mind and reassurance. All they need now is a loving home to make their dreams come true.

Photos and details of many of the cats we have looking for homes are on our website.

For further information

Coco

Ali

Jacob

Loving & looking for an understanding home. Can let her decide if she stays in or out.

Our special boy is looking for a home with special people

Affectionate chatty boy is ready to find his forever home where he can feel safe and loved

Patch

Sherbert & Fizz

Gypsy

Do you have a lap free for our gorgeous Patch ?

Do you have an understanding home to show this pair a purrfect life ?

Lovely lady looking for someone to help her enjoy life again

Ebony

Brook

Peggy & Cindy

Shy girl looking for a home for her, and maybe one of her family...

Shy girl looking for a home for her, and maybe one of her family...

Looking for a loving home

Phone: 0345 260 2505 Online: www.bedford.cats.org.uk Email: helpline@bedford.cats.org.uk Reg Charity 203644 (England and Wales) SCO37711 (Scotland)

Cats Protection Bedford and Biggleswade Branch Call 0345 260 2505 or visit www.bedfordcats.org.uk 66

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

67

SERVICES

Your Tarotscopes

Bromham Windows & Home Improvements

for January 2017...

by Susan Peppiatt Capricorn

Those born under the sign of the Goat are urged to play fair, as this month they get back what they give out, so many will celebrate and many will have choices to make which aren’t easy. The month shows as busy and a bit of a rollercoaster for the emotions, with both highs and lows alternating.

Aquarius

A month of spending and a need for financial propriety. Lack of control here will lead to ongoing problems, it’s advised to think twice and not act spontaneously, if regrets are to be avoided. Having said that, some bargains show around which need careful thought but are worthwhile.

Pisces

Success with tests and examinations, and thoughts of study on subjects to do with the mind are prominent this January for both younger and older people born under this sign. Solving problems seems imminent for the rest of those whose sign is the two fishes.

Aries

A fulfilling happy month which spells success shows around many at the beginning of the year.

It follows a year of struggle, so is very necessary and is followed by a need for a break or a holiday to maintain good health and strength of mind. It looks like the start of a year of easier times.

Taurus

Virgo

A month with strong changes in direction, a lot of unexpected issues which need dealing with swiftly show up, but are shown as handled and completed if efforts are put in without procrastination. People show as demanding and a little needy, but through no fault of their own.

Some slight wealth improvement shows as taking small steps towards Virgoans , but it’s not without extra work this January. This needs careful thought before taking on a large commitment, as it involves other people putting changes into place to succeed.

Gemini

Libra

It’s time to teach skills to others and refresh the mind with new information about old interests.

Connection with old friend also shows as valuable, with a sign of letting go of stresses between family members who have been out of touch, of out of mind recently.

Cancer

A need to take things gently and to not push to extremes especially where work is concerned.

It’s going to be a busy year so the advice is to pace the use of both energy and money, so as to make it an easier one. This is a year which makes effects on others as well, so a need for carefully moving forward is shown.

Leo

Taking care of health and maintaining better health are shown as the most valuable paths to follow this month, so the advice is to stick to choices taken which have usually failed.

Outside exercise is often avoided, but the need for fresh air to clear the mind, and getting out doors seems wise.

Expect work related changes, with some people taking a complete change in what they will do for the foreseeable future. It’s certainly a month needing great amounts of thought, but shows as being a good month despite, or perhaps because, of that.

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

Email: nightingale12@ntlworld.com

Scorpio

An extremely loving month is shown around Scorpio subjects; with home feeling cosy and worthwhile, and families being more thoughtful to each other, it may feel a little surreal to those who are used to family stress and drama. Make the best of the month, and it may even continue.

Sagittarius

Letting go of some work, which has become more a drain than a satisfactory way of life shows at the beginning of 2017, and while this does need to be done in a sensible way, this month shows as the one which begins to feel that other ways forward are possible, and even necessary, to get the best out of life.

or Email info@dollieandbo.co.uk

The Sanctuary, Harpur Street, Bedford www.spellboundsue.co.uk 68

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69

Prize crossword SERVICES

Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this section and send to the address below before 16th January.

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

ÂŁ25

SERVICES

Prize Across

7 Type of poison (7) 9 Mushrooms and toadstools (5) 10 Female deer (3) 11 Scene, vista (9) 12 African river (5) 14 Dumbfound, flabbergast (7) 16 Art of paper-folding (7) 18 Young armed services trainee (5) 19 Eclair or Choux bun (9) 20 Express an opinion publicly (3) 21 Grieve (5) 22 Incurred cost (7)

Down

1 Lively Spanish dance (8) 2 Small island (4) 3 Fisherman (6) 4 Place out of line (6) 5 Not considered important (8) 6 Unpleasant, odious (4) 8 Infect, pollute (11) 13 Cunning, deceitful (8) 15 Discouraged (8) 17 Type of nut (6) 18 Scary, macabre (6) 19 Temporary outdoor shelter (4) 20 Skin condition which causes spots (4)

Name:

Address:

Tel: Last month's winner was Mr. Pearson, Bedford 70

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

71

The

I

Big

SERVICES

Garden Bird Watch

n the depth of winter garden birds bring us so much pleasure.

Squabbling on feeders, their colours and songs brighten gloomy days.

Birds play a vital role in our gardens’ ecosystems.

They are feathered pest controllers, eating everything from snails to aphids to wind-fall fruits.

If you’d like to attract more birds to your garden there are several things to consider. Lots of people hang up a bag of peanuts when the weather turns grim then become disheartened as it hangs there unused. So here are my handy tips.

Food – When I was a child my dad told me to only feed birds in the winter, but now the experts advise putting out food all year round. There is a dizzying array of bird food available but a good starter mix includes sunflower seeds, canary seed, hemp and husk-free oats. Use a good tubestyle feeder and clean it regularly as a build up of bacteria and old food can kill birds.

If squirrels are a problem you can by rodent-proof feeders. I also have one tube-feeder which is set within a sort of cage which keeps larger birds out, letting the smaller ones access the food unimpeded. Protect birds from prowling cats by planting something prickly and ground-hugging around the bird table or feeder – Berberis darwinii is a good one, but you can also confound cats with a collar, which fits around the bird table stand and prevents them from jumping up.

cover and food, and is also very pretty. Train honeysuckle and ivy over arches and pergolas.

Pyracantha'Soleil d'Or', Cotoneaster frigidus 'Cornubia' and rambling roses that will produce lots of rosehips are great for house walls and fences. If you have room for a tree try the bird cherry (Prunus padus) or a crab apple such as Malus 'John Downie'.

Nesting – Dozens of bird species make use of nest boxes. Put up new boxes now because birds use the winter to scope out good breeding spots.

If you already have boxes, take them down, remove any old nests and rinse the boxes with boiling water to sterilise them.

Come the spring put out some extra nesting material for them to grab: sheep wool, pet hair, wool scraps can all be pushed inside a wire cage or a terracotta pot Hopefully this has given you some ideas. And don’t forget to take part in The Big Garden Bird watch on January 28th and 29th

R.J.S Building & Maintenance Sevices

Extensions ~ Garden walls ~ Driveways Relay & Repairs of existing Driveways & Patios Jet washing of driveways, patios & garden walls Gutter cleaning ~ Garden clearance

Water – A supply of clean water is very important for drinking and bathing. A sloping bath is best to accommodate different bird species, and add a flat stone or two to aid with getting in and out!

Keep it topped up and check daily to see that it hasn’t frozen. If it has, melt the ice with warm water. Your feathered friends will thank you.

Any work undertaken, No job too small

Plants – Birds like cover so plant shrubs, trees and climbers. If you can manage it a mixed hedge of hawthorn, holly, dog rose, and rowan offers

01234 343645 or 07780 331052

72

Call Richard James Saunders on To advertise with us please get in touch – www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk

73

GARDENING

GARDENING

Black Root

Rot

F

Black root rot (Thielaviopsis basicola) is a fungal root rot pathogen affecting many plant species but most commonly found on Ilex, especially I. crenata (however I aquafolium and I. cornuta are resistant). Herbaceous plants are also susceptible including Begonia, Dahlia, Geranium, Poinsettia, Cyclamen, Gerbera and Pansy. This disease favours wet soils at temperatures greater than 12°C. It is thought to be spread by sciarid flies although widespread movement can also be via imported soil or plant stock.

Symptoms:

Above ground symptoms are consistent with root loss and root decline i.e. stunted growth, branch dieback and yellowing throughout the crown. Symptoms will be similar to other root rot pathogens, physical root damage or soil compaction.

Occasionally diamond shaped lesions have been observed at the base of heavily infected plants.

Below ground, roots exhibit characteristic blackened areas and significantly reduced growth.

Management:

Plant removal and soil sterilisation are the only viable remedial treatment for this pathogen. No fungicides are registered for control.

Maintaining a soil pH below 5.6 can reduce disease severity.

Consider an application of potassium phosphite to enhance plant vitality and promote the plants own naturally occurring defense systems. This may be of benefit in situations where damage is limited however little effective control should be expected from this approach.

For biosecurity reasons avoid moving material off site.

Twigs and leaves should remain on site and be burned, buried or composted. Disinfect pruning tools by rinsing in alcohol or a solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water. Remove all leaves and soil from footwear, clothing and vehicles.

Promote plant vitality by mulching, irrigation and soil nutrient management, where necessary, following a soil analysis.

For more advice visit: www.bartlett.com or contact Bartlett Tree Experts on 01234 354 673 Visit us on Facebook at Bartlett Tree Experts – Bedford UK

Tim Brown 01234 354673 bedford@bartlettuk.com www.bartlett.com

BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS A Very Brown Hedge Indeed Aphids are one of the most common and troublesome of all garden insect pests. They attack a large number of garden plants throughout the country and are recently causing much disfigurement to ornamental conifer hedges. Commonly known as Greenfly and Blackfly, these aphids feed on hedges, sucking the sap of the plant and can spread several viruses, causing severe dieback.

Cypress Aphid is currently troublesome and pre-dominantly affects conifer hedging. Damage inflicted on conifer hedges by the aphid Cinara cupressi is severe and can lead to large brown patches on the hedge. This leads to localised foliage death, reducing the aesthetic look of the hedge. As the aphid is active from May to October it is important to catch this problem early and apply treatments to stop its spread. At the first sign of brown patches call us for a free consultation and professional advice.

Tree & Shrub Pruning • Planting • Tree Removal • Stump Grinding Hedge Cutting • Health & Safety Reports • Disease & Insect Control To advertise with us please get in touch – www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk

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weather

GARDENING

Roll with the

I

f you are a gardener you learn to roll with the weather. This month, follow some design tips to gardeners who want their garden to look good, whatever the weather.

Keep the overall design simple. When you're making a plan, use a few sweeping lines to lead the eye from the viewing point, which is often the kitchen window, right down to the back of your plot.

Turn your lawn into a welcoming green wide pathway, which almost acts as an arrow, drawing the eye or the visitor on a journey.

Keep the planting simple. Mass plant lowgrowing shrubs such as dwarf purple berberis for colour or clouds of Pittosporum tobira 'Nanum'.

If your garden is extremely small, shaded or just damp, give up on a lawn altogether. It's not

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going to repay any maintenance and you will spend years and fortunes bemoaning the brown patches and invasion of weeds and moss. Dig it up and replace it with a top quality artificial turf. This can be wonderful, a green carpet which always looks good, can be easily cleaned, allows rainwater and snow to drain away and doesn't need cutting or feeding.

Consider what your specimens will look like all year round, not only when covered in foliage or flower. If you're planting a tree, why not try a multi-stemmed birch? When bare, from October to April, it still has a lovely sculptural shape.

Enhance this through the evening by up-lighting through the use of a spotlight at its base.

GARDENING

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Pay attention to a few detailed areas. Surprise and delight by framing your front door with a wonderful display of massed colour in pots.

For instance, flowering cyclamen crammed into a 'long Tom' terracotta urn looks special and draws attention from less well tended parts of the garden.

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

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GARDENING

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SERVICES

Be Special with

Bedfordshire Police B

crime.

edfordshire Police works 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year, to protect the public and fight

What many people don’t realise is that some of the officers they see are part of a dedicated team of volunteers known as Special Constables.

Bedfordshire Police is now recruiting Special Constables to work alongside full-time police officers and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) on the front line. The force has around 250 Specials, but is keen to double this figure.

Specials receive full police training and help patrol Bedfordshire’s rural and urban communities, assisting with everything from helping to keep the county’s town centres safe during busy weekend periods, to policing major events like Bedford River Festival and Luton Carnival. On average, they volunteer 28 hours a month of their time, even though the minimum commitment is 16.

Wayne Humberstone has volunteered for the force for more than two decades and risen to the

highest rank of Special Constabulary Chief Officer.

He said: “Our Specials provide vital support to their full time colleagues on the front line, helping to protect people, fight crime and keep Bedfordshire safe. Each commits hours which fit around their schedule and commitments, and each brings unique skills and experiences to the Special Constabulary.

“We have Specials stationed at bases across the county, as well as providing support in specialist departments like Roads Policing and our dedicated football unit. Bedfordshire’s Special Constabulary operates a full rank structure, and so opportunities are available to be promoted to higher ranks.”

01234 404947 07873 287268

The force’s next recruitment event is on Wednesday 4 January at Police Headquarters in Kempston at 7.30pm. Attendees will find out more about the Special Constabulary from serving Special Constables, as well as more information about the application and recruitment process.

For further information please contact Sharna Raine on 07590465193 or BeSpecial@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

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

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30/09/2014 11:46

Eagles The

However, the side showed a strong team performance and came off with a solid 2:1 win. Having taken the double lead so early on in the fixture, after just 13 minutes, all were concerned that another Bedford collapse would occur.

However, the side showed that with a strong spine that talks to each other, team spirit can often overcome quality. The performance reminded all of the Leicester City side of last season, where every member of the team worked hard for each other. There was no individual thinking they were more important than another, and that was reflected with how the game panned out.

2

016 may not have been a truly memorable year for the Eagles, but like with most things in life, the positives are sought when entering into a new year. There have been strong performances against the league leaders, including victories over Farnborough and Kempston Rovers. The EvoStik League Division One Central is always a competitive league and consistency will be what everyone at the club is looking for as we enter 2016.

Having been on such a bad run of form going into December, many Eagles fan could have been forgiven for thinking the worst when welcoming a side like Farnborough to the Eyrie.

84

The Management Committee continue to work hard for the good of the club. David Howell and James Smiles are working with Jon to identify players to bring into the squad to continue to move the Eagles forward. Matthew Howell-Daly did a fantastic job in providing Vision Blinds with a superb day at the Farnborough game with their match sponsorship. Ash and Angie Scutchings have organised another Murder Mystery dinner for Saturday 11th March 2017. For further information please contact him on a match day.

The Eagles are offering discounted admission to all nine home games in 2017. The Management Committee have agreed to offer supporters the chance to purchase half season tickets. The ticket will entitle the holder entry to all home games in 2017, before May, which will include the visits of Histon, Marlow, Aylesbury, Chalfont St Peter, Barton Rovers, Egham, Hanwell, Beaconsfield SYCOB and the final game of the season against Aylesbury United. In addition to entry to all nine home fixtures in 2017, the club will also grant entry

to any re-arranged Southern League fixtures that are called off before the New Year and rearranged for 2017.

Half Season Ticket prices are as follows: £70 for Adults £45 for Concessions £25 for 10-15 year olds.

Applications can be made by printing the attached form out on the website and returning it to James Smiles or David Howell on a match day.

Alternatively, they can also be handed in to Ashley Scutchings in the Clubhouse or Gerry Edmunds in the Tea Hut. Applications can also be made online by returning a copy of the form and monies transferred over to the club's bank account details stated on the form.

The Club have created an official Instagram account. Following the success of the Eagles official twitter and Facebook pages, the club has taken the decision to launch an official instagram account. Bedford Town currently has 2,697 Facebook followers and 4.405 followers on Twitter making us one of the most followed club's in the Southern League across social media.

Fans can now share their experiences at games via Facebook and Twitter, as well as promoting events and services the club has to offer to their friends. The Instagram account was launched on Saturday 29th October.

You can follow the Eagles on social media via the following links: https://twitter.com/bedfordtown https://www.facebook.com/bedfordtown https://www.instagram.com/bedfordtownfc/ November 18th saw another popular quiz night at the Eyrie. The next one in the New Year is planned for 27th January and starts at 7:30pm, entrance is £6 a head which includes a ploughman’s supper, with a maximum team size of six. For further information, please contact Gerry on 01234 381213.

Are you looking for somewhere to hold your event? The Wallace suite at the Eyrie could be your ideal venue. Whether it be party, wedding reception, fundraising event or anything, we have the deal for you. Please contact Angie or Ash Scutchings on 07767 488797 for further information.

Finally, we would like to wish all supporters and the public of Bedford all the best for 2017. The Club would like to thank our major sponsors, KCW Windows and Paul Riches Skips for their invaluable continued support. As well as our other sponsorship partners, we hope that the New Year is a prosperous for all businesses connected with the Eagles.

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SERVICES

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BEDFORD

BLUES

B

edford Blues are all geared up to put 2016 behind them and look forward to a fantastic 2017!

While the start of last year saw the Blues put together a string of good results securing a Championship play-off place, the back end of 2016 wasn’t so kind with the Blues not being able to quite reproduce the same form. However, Bedford have remained in touching distance of the top end of the table and a strong start to 2017 could soon see them knocking on the door of a top four place.

After a tough festive period which included a cup double-header against Ealing Trailfinders as well as a Boxing Day bout with Jersey Reds and a New Year’s Eve encounter with London Irish, the Blues will be looking to blast off 2017 with a home game against Yorkshire Carnegie in the British & Irish Cup on the 14th January followed by a Championship clash with Doncaster Knights a fortnight later.

Don’t forget that you can buy discounted tickets online at www.bedfordrugby.co.uk which can save you up to £4.

Four brave members of the Bedford Blues squad were put through their paces just before Christmas as they were set the task of taking on the Meatcure Chilli Burger Challenge.

86

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The challenge was quite simple. Tom James, Mike Howard, Pat Tapley and Christian Judge each had to simply work their way through a four patty tower burger, a dozen jalapeno bites, double fries and a milkshake in just 15 minutes.

With the rest of the squad’s encouragement, the foursome got stuck into the challenge wholeheartedly but it proved to be a step too far as none of them could quite complete the task in the time limit set out.

Speaking after the event, Strength and Conditioning Coach Andrew Petts said: “Although no one was quite able to complete the task, it was a great evening which all of the lads really enjoyed and brought everyone closer together. Mike Howard deserves a special mention for his valiant effort which saw him coming extremely close to completing the challenge – the others weren’t quite so close.

“We were told afterwards that one of the manager’s at Meat Cure had actually completed the challenge in just four and a half minutes. I think that dented a few of the boys egos until we found out that it hadn’t actually ‘stayed down’ for that long, so everyone left in good spirits. We would like to thank Meat Cure for inviting us along. www.bedfordrugby.co.uk 87

DIRECTORY 88

Adoption Agency Adoption Plus.......................................................34

Bakeries La Rondine........................................................... 92

Bathrooms/Bedrooms Dream Doors.........................................................15 F and D Kitchens.................................................42 Kreative Kitchens & Bathrooms.......................19 Optimum Glass....................................................... 5 Q P Interiors............................................................ 9 Peter Crisp..............................................................61

Builders C & M Gardener Builders.................................82 RJS Builders.......................................................... 73

Cattery Paddocks Boarding Cattery.............................67

Carpentry D C Carpentry......................................................79

Carpets & Flooring A&A Carpets..........................................................13

Charity

Curtains & Blinds

Garden Sevices/Supplies

Denton Drapes.....................................................19 Emperor Blinds.................................................... 92

Bartlett Tree Experts...........................................75 Beaver Sheds....................................................... 77 Bryan Johnson.....................................................93 Driveway & Paving Doctor............................... 77 Eden Tree Specialists........................................78 LWS..........................................................................78 M J Nicholson.......................................................93 MK Guttering......................................................... 77 Mr Fix Property Maintenance......................... 62 Prestige Lawns.....................................................75 Sureclean............................................................... 77 TPI............................................................................78 Whites.....................................................................93

Education Bedford Catholic Schools................................. 47 Bedford College................................................. 95 Mark Rutherford School....................................44 Polam School........................................................45

Electrical Goods / Repairs J B Domestics.......................................................93

Electrician Craddock Electrical............................................57 Down to Earth...................................................... 92

Events & Activities Marston Vale.........................................................55

Family Law Heritage Park Chambers..................................35

Farm Shop Summerhill Farm..................................................39

Food & Drink

Health, Beauty & Fitness Beauty Lodge.......................................................27 Bedford Chiropractic Clinic............................. 29 Deborah Hair........................................................93 Feet To Go............................................................ 26 Kempston Dental.................................................27 Liz Mason Pilates................................................ 26 My Heart My Health.............................................. 2 Pulse....................................................................... 26 Silks..........................................................................28 Slimming World....................................................43

The Coach House................................................41 The Crown.............................................................39

House Clearance

Fostering Agency

Jewellery/Gifts

CFFA........................................................................33

Dollie & Bo............................................................ 69

Black Horse Chimney Sweep.......................... 71

Funeral Services

Kitchens

Cleaning

Arnolds Funeral Service...................................43 Molyneux Jones Family Funeral Directors..23

Dream Doors.........................................................15 F and D Kitchens.................................................42 Homeworks Property Maintenance..............86 Kreative Kitchens & Bathrooms.......................19 Optimum Glass....................................................... 5 Peter Crisp..............................................................61

Age UK...................................................................32 CATS Protection..................................................67 Royal British Legion............................................55

Chimney Sweep

5 Star.......................................................................22 Aroma Clean........................................................ 59 Oven Maestro...................................................... 69 Sureclean............................................................... 77

Computer Repair/Maintenance/Sales Oakley IT................................................................83 PC Problem Solver............................................... 71

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Garage Doors Almond Garage Doors..................................... 92

The Bizarre............................................................93

Laundry/Ironing Service Bubbles................................................................. 59

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

89

Leisure

Security

Cineworld............................................................. 60 Milton Keynes Theatre......................................54

A Rocket.................................................................57 Ace Security..........................................................35 J Dean Security....................................................83

Needlecraft Sewing and Knitting Bedford..........................23

Optometrist John Kaye............................................................. 29

Painting & Decorating

Senior Care Home Instead.......................................................58

Shoe Shop / Repairs Odell Shoes......................................................... 56

Bromham Painter & Decorating..................... 62 Craig Johnson......................................................83 David Lower Decorating.................................. 92 M H Decorating....................................................79 Maulden Painting & Decorating..................... 92

Skip Hire

Plasterer

Tiling

CP Ceilings............................................................82 Craig Johnson......................................................83

Dave Moore Tiling..............................................79

Plumbing, Heating & Drainage

Select Travel Holidays........................................21

Aquasure Plumbing.............................................61 C M Plumbing.........................................................11 Cromwell Stoves................................................ 59 Drain doctor.......................................................... 73 T R Donnelly.........................................................93 The Bedford Plumbers.......................................81

Paul Riches Skips............................................... 56

Taxi Ace Cars.................................................................46

Travel Agents TV Satellite Services J Dean Security....................................................83

Upholstery M&S Upholstery.................................................. 92

Pre-School

Vets

St Mark's Pre-School..........................................45

Acorn House.........................................................64

Property Maintenance

Windows, Doors & Conservatories

CP Ceilings............................................................82 Homeworks Property Maintenance..............86 Just So.....................................................................61 Mr Fix Property Maintenance......................... 62 V C Property Maintenance............................... 37

1st Glass..................................................................22 A Rocket.................................................................57 Bedford Doors.......................................................81 Bromham Windows........................................... 69 Cloudy2Clear...................................................... 96 Kempston Windows............................................82 Window Geeks.....................................................86 TLP Windows.........................................................18

Roofing Bridge Roofing.....................................................86 Bucks Roofing.......................................................81 Nu-Look Conservatory Roof Solutions..........15 P H Roofing Services.......................................... 71

90

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Useful Numbers Alcoholics Anonymous 0845 769 7555 Alistair Burt MP North Beds 0207 219 8132 Anglian Water 08457 145 145 01234 267422 Bedford Borough Council Bedford Hospital 01234 355122 Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue 01234 351081 Benefits for People with Disabilities 0800 882200 0808 808 7777 Carers Line Childline 0800 1111 Citizens Advice 0844 245 1290 Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 Cruse Bereavement Care 0870 167 1677 999 or 112 Emergency Services Floodline 0845 988 1188 Frank – Drugs Advisory 0800 776600 Late Night Pharmacies 0845 769 7555 National Debt Line 0808 808 4000 National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000 247 National Gas Emergency 0800 111 999 NHS Direct 111 National Rail Enquiries 08457 484 Non-Emergency Police Line 101 0808 800 50000 NSPCC Relate 0845 48 49 50 Richard Fuller MP South Beds 01234 261487 RSPCA Cruelty Line 0300 1234 999 Samaritans 0845 90 90 90 Stop Hate UK 24hr Helpline 0800 138 1625 Tax Credit Helpline 0345 300 3900 Victim Support 0845 30 30 900

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CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIEDS

BAKERIES

GARDENING SERVICES

ELECTRICIAN

Lawnmowers & Garden Machinery SALES, SERVICE, REPAIR & PARTS

Commercial & Domestic, all leading brands.

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DESIGN & PRINT SERVICES

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HAIRDRESSING

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MOBILE QUALIFIED STYLIST

Perms, Cuts,Colours - highlights etc Special Occasions and Wedding Hair

01234 210337 07976 394798 To advertise with us please get in touch – www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk

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VOLUNTEERING

Volunteering Opportunities

Take life or work in a new direction

Just to remind you all that volunteering DOES NOT AFFECT YOUR BENEFITS It’s a great way to get a reference and looks great on your CV

Discover a fascinating hobby or interest, develop

OPPORTUNITY OF THE MONTH

skills to move on at work, or start training for a whole new career – however you’re looking t spend your spare time, turn it into time well spent with part-time study at Bedford College.

85 Driver

We have the vehicles if you can spare a couple of hours to help residents access day centres, local shops, college, church or to get to appointments – or just go for a drive. Choose daytime, evenings or weekends – regular or occasional, short local runs. Travel expenses, minibus driver training and police check paid. Induction course provided. No previous experience of working with people with disabilities is necessary, although may be an advantage.

251 Volunteer Mentor (Transforming Rehabilitation) To support the service user in custody and/or the community to establish/maintain positive family relationships and reduce the impact of offending on children.

Provide support, guidance and encouragement, help them to identify positive relationships, maintain them and build goals. Improve communication with family.

232 Home Visitor A social opportunity with a visually impaired person in their home at an agreed time and day for approx.

45 minutes to 1½ hours to listen to the service user.

Offer companionship, friendship and support such as reading the mail or helping with crosswords.

232 Sighted guide for social club To accompany visually impaired people to quiz nights, evenings out, sports training and support in a social environment, be available for occasional other activities. Opportunity to participate in training and development programmes.

94

94 Garden volunteers To restore 18th century historic walled gardens back to their full horticultural potential. Asist with seasonal gardening tasks including bed renovation-reinstating and installing garden borders, ground preparation and planting, clearing overgrown areas. Includes woodland management, clearance, planting, coppicing, habitat creation and flora diversification.

TAKE YOUR HOBBY TO ANOTHER LEVEL WITH OUR LEISURE COURSES From Practical Garden Design to a Wedding Designs Workshop, our short leisure courses vary in length from a few hours to a few weeks. They are perfect for exploring a new or existing hobby, brushing up on skills or making new friends.

147 Volunteer Befriender To accompany adults with mental health difficulties going out into social situations, which could include sports outings, going shopping, and attending social venues, to enhance their confidence and self-esteem and aim towards recovery and independence from mental health services.

85 Befriender To engage with residents on a 121 basis to share hobbies and interests, chat, read, write letters and cards, watch TV, play games, quizzes and crosswords, all to help build a relationship. Min 2 hours per week.

Travel expenses and police check covered. Induction course provided. No previous experience of working with people with disabilities is necessary, although may be an advantage.

139 Van Driver The van driver is a key part of our operation and should be able to lead the van crew and make sure procedures are followed at all times. Need a safe and careful driver as well as a good people person.

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

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BOOST YOUR CAREER PROSPECTS WITH OUR PROFESSIONAL COURSES Studying for industry-recognised qualifications on a part-time basis enables you to take your career in a new direction, or enhance your existing skills, while continuing to work. It could be your first step into a skilled role, such as a teacher or electronic engineer, and you’ll gain transferable workplace skills along the way.

Study now, pay later with an Advanced Learner Loan If you’re aged 19 or over on the start date of your chosen course you can apply for a loan to cover the tuition fees for some of our courses. And with nothing to pay back until you’re earning over £21,000 per year, it’s a fantastic way to make part-time study more affordable. To find out more visit www.bedford.ac.uk/loans

info@bedford.ac.uk www.bedford.ac.uk/parttime

01234 291000