Bedslife magazine nov 17 w

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November 2017

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Meal for 4 at Mexico Italian Hamper £25 Crossword Cineworld Tickets Remembrance in Bedford Volunteer with FACES Firework Night Fun What’s On Guide

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Content Welcome.. & Features to November…

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eaves falling from the trees look so pretty but come November it’s time for the nights draw in and we can look forward to fireworks….and Christmas! Yes we can say it now!

November, as ever, importantly marks Armistice Day and Remembrance Day. Read our article on p4 about The Royal British Legion and the Bedford Remembrance service times.

This month, our charity of the month, FACES, have made an exciting leap into new premises, read about how they support families on p16 and how you could volunteer with them.

Alistair Burt addresses the very important topic of Organ Donation and the proposed new legislation on p8 and our Consumer article advises you all about Section 75 – protection on goods paid for by credit cards when things don’t go to plan.

Remembrance Day

4

MP Views – Organ Donation

8

Consumer Advice – Section 75

10

The Lord-Lieutenant’s New Cadets

16

Charity of the Month – FACES

18

Ageing Gracefully

24

Odells Anniversary

32

Shared Lives

36

What’s On

40

Mexico Competition

46

MK Theatre Panto – Cinderella

48

Could your Pet have Arthritis?

57

Take me Home

58

Tarotscopes

60

National Tree Week

66

Bedford Rugby Club

70

We have a very exciting competition this month on p46 – Win a meal and drinks for 4 people at one of Bedford’s newest restaurants, Mexico, at Riverside North! Plus all our regular competitions – £25 Crossword, 2 Cineworld tickets and a La Piazza hamper.

Bedford Town Football

71

Classifieds & Services

76

Volunteering Opportunities

78

Our What’s On pages list the local events this month and there are plenty of them!

Advertising Christa Tel 01234 962929 / 07827 015170 E: christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk Teresa Tel 01234 310521 / 07429 136815 E: teresa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk

The BedsLife Team BedsLife Magazine @BedsLife

December book g deadlinin e Novembe6rth 2017

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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Armistice Day &

Remembrance Sunday T

he Royal British Legion (RBL) is recognized as the custodian of Remembrance. It fulfils this responsibility a number of ways.

The Poppy is the symbol of Remembrance. Its origin is international inspired by a poem by a Canadian Army Officer, interpreted by a female American academic, identified as an opportunity to collect money for charitable causes by a French lecturer, and shared throughout the Commonwealth and Empire by the RBL. Mme Guerin, the French Lecturer lectured at Bedford Grammar school, now Bedford School, in 1911 whilst touring Britain to talk about her life in Madagascar.

The RBL volunteers arrange commemorative events around the country, particularly on Armistice Day on 11 November and Remembrance Sunday, the second Sunday in November. Since 2014 the RBL has been engaged on arranging a number of events to commemorate the big engagements of WW1 and this will continue through 2018.

New Members are always welcome to help with the important commemorative work undertaken by the RBL. You don’t need any previous Armed

Forces experience and you can join on line at http://www.britishlegion.org.uk and follow the ‘membership’ link or speak to a Member at an organized event. Deployments in Afghanistan, Iraq in 2003 and 1991, the Balkans and the Falklands as well as peacekeeping and other activities throughout the world since WWII have left servicemen and women together with their families in need of support from the RBL and its sister charities.

Remembrance in Bedford

Parade in the square in the new development from 10:40am on Saturday 11 November 2017.

Parade commencing from the Radhuni Restaurant mustering from 10:00am.

Service at Memorial on the Embankment from 10:40am. Parade marches to Harpur Square from where it will be dismissed. www.britishlegion.org.uk

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“The conference was a very impactful and insightful, and an important step forward in our fight against CSE.” Richard Carr, Chief Executive of Central Bedfordshire Council, said: “In terms of understanding CSE and its impact, there is nothing more powerful than the stories of victims. Sammy Woodhouse’s testimony dispelled the assumption that CSE only happens to children from broken homes.

And it also shocked me how dismissive the agencies involved were of the fact that she was a child and a victim. We have moved on since then, but we cannot risk becoming complacent and fail to recognise that CSE can happen in way we have not assumed.”

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Fusion Lifestyle, a leading registered charity which provides quality sport, leisure and fitness activities to local communities, in partnership with Bedford Borough Council.

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Views from

Alistair Burt, your Local MP...

OPT IN TO BE A DONOR

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know I have written in previous articles encouraging constituents to become blood donors and organ donors, so this is something of an update.

Last year 500 people died waiting for a transplant because a suitable organ was not available. Therefore to address this challenge, I am very pleased that the Prime Minister has recently announced proposals to move to an opt-out system for organ donation, something many of us have talked about in Parliament for a long time, and I have a number of constituents who have raised this regularly with me.

When we lose a loved one most of us are not in the position to make rational decisions within the time scale needed for a healthy transplant. Many of us know our partner or children’s wishes, but I am always surprised that sometimes it has not been discussed, and families are not sure what to do. This will take away that difficulty of waiting for permission, but also leave the ‘opt out’ option for those for whom organ donation does not suit their wishes.

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In 2015/16 the highest ever deceased donor rate in the UK was recorded with 1,364 deceased donors resulting in 3,529 transplants. This was achieved by increasing the number of specialist nurses, in addition to strengthening the donation infrastructure.

For example, NHS Blood and Transplant now works with a number of partner organisations to promote organ donation, meaning that people can add their name to the Organ Donor Register when carrying out everyday tasks such as applying for a driving licence or taxing their car.

A seven year UK-wide organ donation and transplantation strategy jointly published by the four UK health ministers and NHSBT in 2013. The strategy aims to increase consent rates, encourage people to be proud to donate and to make the UK system comparable with the best of the world. It builds on the donation infrastructure already in place and the successes achieved, identifying the remaining barriers and setting out how these will be overcome.

I hope you will view the ‘opt in’ system as a positive step forward that will assist the lifesaving transplant network, and in the meanwhile I also hope you have chosen to sign up. www.organdonation.nhs.uk

Rt Hon Alistair Burt MP

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9

CONSUMER

What is

Section 75?

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t’s a UK law made the 1970s meaning your credit provider must take the same responsibility a retailer does if things go wrong with a purchase.

Pay for something costing between £100 and £30,000 on credit and the provider’s equally liable if something goes wrong.

This isn’t the credit provider being nice. It’s a legal protection put in place so that you’re never in the position of paying off debt for something you didn’t receive or wasn’t as it should have been or the retailer goes bust. Whether it’s a flight, kitchen or computer, pay on a credit card, store card or with store instalment credit and the credit provider is responsible too.

Section 75 applies to most credit card agreements, store cards, store instalment credit and some car finance agreements (not HP).

Some typical examples…

• You order a vase from overseas that never arrives • You buy flights direct from an airline that goes bust • You buy a radio from a shop and find it’s faulty TIP -Pay the deposit by credit card and you’re covered – You get protection for the whole cost of an item or service costing between £100 – £30,000 even if you only pay for a part of it on credit.

Single Item Values – The law is plain; the £100 is for the cash value of a ‘single item’ (excluding any fees, and delivery charges). For example: • Fly with Holidayair on flights costing £99 outbound and £9.99 back, it’s over £100 in total. But as no single ticket was over £100, you’re not protected.

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Money Matters

By Martin Lewis • If a suit jacket and trousers are priced at £60 each, you’re not covered; buy the suit for one whole price of £120, you’re covered.

What’s not covered by Section 75?

• Purchase of land • Items costing less than £100 or where you use a debit card or charge card • Goods/services paid for by a secondary cardholder • Goods/services bought through intermediaries – travel agent, group-buying sites, PayPal etc • Using the credit card indirectly • Where the credit provider & supplier are the same – eg, catalogue accounts • Hire purchase agreements – car finance, some electrical goods etc

How do I make a Section 75 claim?

Remember this is a legal right. To make a claim, you need to contact your credit card company (even on a closed account) So on a HSBC Mastercard, you claim from HSBC, not Mastercard.

If you’re claiming for a sofa bought with instalment credit, your claim is with the finance company you repay to- not DFS or SCS. Always actually say: “I am making a claim under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act”.

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11

SERVICES

CLASSIC WEDDING CAR HIRE

R

idgmont Classics are proud to present a selection of classic British gems for weddings in Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire and Oxfordshire.

Other area requests considered.

• Stunning 1961 Mk 11 Jaguar in classic Old English White • Beautiful metallic Silver Blue 1965 V8 Daimler • Traditional Black Fairway London Cab • Original 64 or 72 seater red Routemaster restored bus

01234 831731 • www.ridgmontclassics.co.uk

LANGFORD WINDOWS ~ DOORS & CONSERVATORIES ~

Keeping Warmth in and Winter out!

Professional & High Quality Service for over a decade Specialists in the supply and install of quality windows, doors and conservatories.

• Bi-fold doors • Vertical Sliding Windows • Guttering, Soffits and Fascia • Cladding • Underwritten 10 Year Guarantee Covering Bedford and all surrounding areas.

All quotes and advice are free and without obligation or pressure to buy

Call now for your FREE quote on 01234 510091 www.langfordwindows.com langfordwindows@hotmail.co.uk 12

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SERVICES

Quality Kitchen Facelifts

Dreaming of a new kitchen this Christmas

Why replace when you can reface?

Est. 1999

• Trusted reputation • UK manufactured products • Huge choice of doors, worktops, appliances, sinks and taps

Call Mark or Riana For a Free Estimate:

01234 852151

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Visit our Showroom: Dream Doors Kempston, 73 High Street, Kempston, Bedford, MK42 7BT mk@dreamdoors.co.uk

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

15

Lord-Lieutenant appoints

new Cadets

H

M Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Helen Nellis, recently appointed her cadets for 2017/2018 at a ceremony held at Bedford Modern School, Manton Lane, Bedford.

It is customary for Lord-Lieutenants to appoint young people from the Cadet Forces as LordLieutenant’s Cadets. The Cadets are outstanding young people who have been recommended to the Lord-Lieutenant by their senior officers and are drawn from the Sea Cadets, Army Cadets, Air Training Corps and Combined Cadet Force. Unlike many other Lieutenancies across the Country, Bedfordshire also appoints Cadets from the Fire & Rescue Service and the Police Force.

The Lord-Lieutenant Cadet selection and appointment recognises the outstanding example and devotion to duty they have displayed, both as a Cadet and a member of the Community.

It is considered an honour and a privilege to be selected as a Lord-Lieutenant Cadet and competition for selection is very strong.

The role of Lord-Lieutenant’s cadets is to support the Lord-Lieutenant in carrying out her duties as HM The Queen’s representative for the County of Bedfordshire whilst acting as ambassadors for their organisations. Their duties can range from accompanying the Lord-Lieutenant on a Royal 16

Visit, to reading a prayer at the Lord-Lieutenant’s Annual Service of Thanksgiving in front of up to 500 guests. When on duty, Lord-Lieutenant’ Cadets wear uniform and distinctive sashes/ badges to denote their role.

This year’s cadets are: • Fire Cadet Charlie Beresford (Bedfordshire Fire & Rescue Service); • Cadet Warrant Officer Lewis Jobbling (Cranfied Air Training Corps); • Cadet Sergeant Honor Marshall (Beds & Herts Army Cadet Force); • Police Cadet Natasha Newton (Bedfordshire Police Cadets); • Leading Cadet Katharine Potter (Flitwick & Ampthill Sea Cadets); and • Cadet Sergeant Adam Wu (Bedford Modern School Combined Cadet Force).

The Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadets are the finest of the many talented young people in the Cadet Forces within Bedfordshire. They have proved themselves to be excellent leaders and a credit to their organisations and to the County.

Speaking after the commissioning the LordLieutenant said, “I am looking forward to working with these excellent young people. I know that they will all rise to the occasion and will be great role models for their peers.”

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MARK RUTHERFORD SIXTH FORM

Find out how to become part of one of the best Sixth Forms in the Borough

Sixth Form Open Evening, Thursday 16th November Visit subject stands from 6.00pm - 8.30pm With presentations from the Director of Sixth Form at 6.00pm and 7.00pm • In 2017 Mark Rutherford’s AS Level results placed us in the top 10% nationally • Our BTEC results are consistently outstanding

• We offer more than 35 courses for students in Years 12 & 13

• We have well qualified and experienced staff to support you with your studies • A range of dedicated Sixth Form study areas

• An award winning Business Partnership to support students’ next steps

The Sixth Form thrive in a very positive environment.

Ofsted 2016

We were taken on a tour by two sixth formers. They spent the whole evening with us and were brilliant. They were confident, engaging and a real credit to the school.

Open Evening visitor

To arrange a visit, to include a taster day or a tour with some of our current Sixth Form students, please contact Mrs Kelli Foster (Director of Sixth Form).

Mark Rutherford School Wentworth Drive, Bedford, Bedfordshire MK41 8PX Tel: 01234 290200 email: sixth.form@mrus.co.uk

mark_rutherford Mark Rutherford School

Visit www.markrutherford.beds.sch.uk to see the Sixth Form subject options for 2018-19

Moments and Milestones of a local family support charity FACES is an acronym for ‘Family and Children’s Early-help Services’.

A registered, award winning and independent charity created 4 years ago and totally unique to Bedford Borough.

FACES provides support to children and their families who are under stress for a number of reasons, some of which may be complex. Families who are struggling with difficulties frequently become socially isolated and find it difficult to access other services that might benefit them, such as health appointments.

With an excellent reputation for providing quality services, evidenced by an external ISO 9001 quality mark, FACES are proud to say that their volunteers are the backbone of the charity and

18

without them FACES would not exist. Wendie Harvey (nee Lovatt), Chief Executive goes on to say “We take great care to ensure that our volunteers are valued and trained to a high standard in preparation for working with FACES families. Our volunteers reflect the diversity of Bedford Borough and provide a wealth of understanding about family life and their local communities”.

Why do families need FACES?

FACES work with families dealing with issues such as mental health, domestic abuse, emotional or physical health issues, difficulties with parenting and financial hardship. Often families have multiple complex issues that they are trying to work through. FACES provide the family with practical and emotional support and work to empower them with an overarching goal to help parents to provide a happy, healthy and safe home for their children.

Wendie explains, “We don’t do this in isolation, we value our partners and we work together to ensure the family has access to all the support they need”.

The Team

FACES team is led by Wendie Harvey who has extensive knowledge of the Voluntary Sector.

Wendie has a team of 6 skilled staff and is supported by a team of dedicated trustees who bring with them different business skills and professional experience. The trustees are themselves volunteers.

The Future

The future looks very exciting for FACES, they are making new links with local businesses and community organisations who are supporting them through fundraising and helping them to promote the charity. They are proud to be a partner in the ECP (Early Childhood Partnership) consortium delivering services to Bedford Borough Children’s Centre as well as delivering their own bespoke projects.

“FACES have given lots of support for both myself and the children. If I hadn’t had FACES support I wouldn’t be where I am now – in a good place”

FACES have recently moved their offices to the newly refurbished Church Lane Community Centre which will not only mean that they will be more visible in the community, but it will also it will give them additional opportunities for funding new projects such as youth work.

If you are interested in supporting FACES, either by volunteering or fundraising, please contact them on 01234 270601 or email admin@facesbedford.org. You can also find out more by visiting their website which is www.facesbedford.org

Volunteers

Men and women of all ages and cultures are welcome to apply to become a FACES volunteer. There are a range of different roles that they can support with such as working in a Children’s Centre setting and/or home visiting. All volunteers attend a 4 or 8 session training course depending on the role they are interested in. The training courses are run during school hours or in the evening so that they are accessible.

Spending time with the volunteers during the training course means that the FACES team can get to know them and this helps with matching the right family to the right volunteer to ensure that a successful relationship develops.

19

SERVICES

Make your child’s party EXTRA SPECIAL with a Mascot Character appearance by Peppa Pig, Olaf, Chase from Paw Patrol or a Minion.

Package 1

£75 (min 30 mins) • Meet & Greet with photo opportunities • Game

• Birthday child’s personalised gift & card

Package 2

£110 (min 45 mins)

Package 3

• Meet & Greet with photo opportunities • Game • Birthday cake cutting (cake not supplied) • Birthday child’s personalised gift

£150 (min 1 hour)

• Meet & Greet with photo opp • Game • Birthday cake cutting (cake not supplied) • Birthday child’s personalised gift • Bubble or Snow machine • Hand out your party bags

Characters are also available for guest appearances at your toddler group, pre-school or marketing event.

Tel 01234 962929 / 07827 015170

Call now to book your child’s favourite character and or email make it a party to remember! enquiries@characterkidzparties.co.uk 20

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SERVICES

Specialists in Alarms & CCTV Supply & Install Intruder Alarms Repair & Upgrade Existing Alarms Service & Maintenance Contracts CCTV Installations Security Lighting Digital TV & Aerial Installations All Work Guaranteed & Fully Insured 24/7 Customer Care Service 365 Days a Year YOUR INSURANCE COULD BE AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT HAVE YOUR SECURITY INSTALLED

BY A FULLY ACCREDITED INSTALLER CALL NOW FOR A FREE QUOTE

01234 347699 07798 894 948

www.jdeansecurityservices.co.uk

1st Glass Window Repairs FULLY INSURED!

EMERGENCY SERVICE AVAILABLE

Local company who can fix all types of problems with your double glazing, call us now for a free quotation.

• Steamed Up Glass • Faulty Window or Door Locks & Hinges • Draughty Windows and Doors • Leaking Conservatory Roofs

• • • •

New Conservatory Roofs Conservatory Cleaning & Service Security up grades We also fit Windows, Doors & Conservatories

£0 DEPOSIT REQUIRED - BALANCE UPON COMPLETION OF YOUR FULL SATISFACTION!

• Fascia • Soffits • Gutters Police Checked

07511 906161 To advertise with us please get in touch – www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk

21

A study by Royal London found that the cost of a UK funeral has risen by 3% in the past year with the average ‘basic’ funeral now costing ÂŁ3,784. One in seven said that they found it a struggle and the average debt taken on by customers was ÂŁ1,680 and with 597,000 deaths in the UK last year, this sets funeral poverty at over ÂŁ160m.

T

o some, offering pre-paid funeral plans after becoming a widower yourself, would be a strange choice, however for Andrew Mayze, setting up CastleFern Funeral Planning Services the decision was a simple one.

I just didn’t want other families to have the same anguish we did, when my wife passed away, after a brief battle with cancer, I was shocked at the cost of the funeral�

Andrew went on to say by organising and paying for my own funeral, he is not only protecting his children from the worry of organising his funeral, but shielding them from rising costs too. “My wife and I discussed what she wanted, the service, the songs and the flowers� and by doing so he had a focus, and he urges every couple to have that conversation, as well as sorting out the finances with a will or a funeral plan.

If you would like to discuss your funeral plans, please call him on 01234 532531

Independent Funeral Plan Broker

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www.castlefern.co.uk 22

-

Will Writing -

Power of Attorney -

Probate

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

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

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

• • • • •

Common Warts Plane Warts Seborrhoeic Warts Verrucas Age Spots

Beauty Lodge

www.beauty-lodge.co.uk

Contact Sarah Thomas 1 Maple Grove, Putnoe Lane, Bedford MK41 9BA Tel: 01234 602783

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

23

SERVICES

H

Senior Snippets

Tips on ageing gracefully

ere are some useful tips on how to age gracefully in the golden years.

Take Care of Mental Health: A positive mind-set is vital. Keeping in touch regularly with family and friends is now easy thanks to technology like Skype, facetime and social media. Keeping busy is a great way to help prevent loneliness. Take a course, volunteer or join a book club?

Do brain-aerobics: The more you challenge your brain, the better it will perform with sharper concentration, enhanced function and focus and improved problem-solving skills. Try playing brain games or learn a new language or instrument.

Sleep: It is considered best to try and get between 7-9 hours of sleep at night.

Limit Vices: Many habits begin to catch up as we get older. Smoking and drinking alcohol and caffeinated beverages have dehydrating effects on the skin as well as on your overall health. Quit smoking and limit drinking and you may even see reduced lines and wrinkles!

Protect your skin from the sun: Too much time in the sun can cause wrinkles, not to mention cancer.

Always make sure to wear sunscreen.

So ageing well may be as simple as adopting some easy everyday habits.

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

CAREGivers Required 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

Contact us on Home Instead Senior Care

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

www.homeinstead.co.uk/Bedford 24

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

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

CHIROPRACTIC IGNITES THE SPARK WITHIN YOU ● Age Related Aches & Pains ● Back/Neck Pain ● Shoulder/Elbow Pain ● Hip/Knee/Foot Pain ● Neck Related Headaches ● Migraines ● Tennis Elbow ● Frozen Shoulder ● Nerve & Sciatic Pain ● Sports Injuries/ Gym injuries

Quote 'BEDS LIFE' and get Consultation, Examination, Posture Scan & Call: Report of findings for 01234 353937 £39 (Usually £67)

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

25

FREE information, advice and 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

Stay Warm Stay Healthy

of charge:



Insulation foam



Light bulbs



External door brushes



Remote plug sockets



Radiator panels



Letter box brushes



Night lights



Draught excluders

Stair and Grab Rails. Small Plumbing. Minor Electrical.

Telephone: 01234 360510 and Stair and Grab Rails. Small Plumbing. Minor Electrical.

Key-Safes.

Smoke Alarms. ask for a healthy homes adviser Light Carpentry.Light Key-Safes. Carpentry.

Smoke Alarms.

Light Decorating. General DIY. Light Decorating. General DIY. 

Socket timers



Cold alarms

Email: enquiries@ageukbedfordshire.org.uk and mention “warmer homes” in your email

SERVICES

AromaClean offer a friendly, reliable & honest domestic cleaning service tailored to your needs Police Checked & Fully Insured

Taking care of all your home cleaning...

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

27

Tart Tatin

Pear

Method

125g caster sugar 40g cold butter, chopped 1/2 tsp ground ginger 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon 3 large pears, peeled, cored and cut into wedges 375g all-butter puff pastry Double cream, to serve

Roll out the pastry to about 5mm thick and cut a disc slightly bigger than your pan (about 24cm). Place the pastry disc on top of the pears and caramel, then carefully tuck it snugly around the outside of the pears and down into the sides of the pan.

Serves 6

Preparation time: 1 hour 20 minutes Ingredients

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Preheat oven to 200C/gas 6. Put a 21cm-diameter frying pan with an ovenproof handle (this bit is important!) on a hob over a medium heat. Add the sugar to the dry pan and heat, stirring constantly until it turns a lovely caramel coloury. Add the butter, ginger and cinnamon and stir well to combine.

Place the pears in the caramel and spoon over the mixture. Turn the heat down and cook for 5–10 minutes until the pears are just tender and cooked but retain their shape. Remove from the heat and cool slightly. Arrange the pears to form an attractive pattern in the pan.

Bake the pie in the oven for 30–40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up. Remove from the oven and leave for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edge, place a large plate over the top and carefully turn the tart onto the plate. Serve with cream.

COMPETITION

FOOD & DRINK

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!

It’s easy to enter…

A) Rosa b) Papavero c) Amapola

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Served at lunch and dinner

Every

Three proper pastry pies to choose from every Friday!

Served with veg and gravy

Simply email your answer along with your address and phone number to teresa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk The winner will be selected at random after closing date and announced in the next edition.

How do you say Poppy in Italian?

TCH Villager advert Sept_ppl.pdf

October winner was Keith Brown from Bedford

Closing date: 15-11-17 1

16/08/2017

13:34

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week Coach the

WWW.COACHHOUSEPOTTON.CO.UK

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29

Do you know a local sporting hero?

Bedford Sports Awards 2017 Deadline for Nominations: Wednesday 22nd November 2017 at 1pm Nomination Categories...

• Sports Personality of the Year (Adult) sponsored by Sports Bedford • Sports Personality of the Year (17 or under) sponsored by The Rotary Club of Bedford Park • Sports Club of the Year sponsored by R&D Coaching • Sports Team of the Year sponsored by University of Bedfordshire • Sporting School of the Year sponsored by The Harpur Trust • Sports Coach of the Year sponsored by Bedford College • Sports Administrator/Club Person of the Year sponsored by Fusion • Disability Sports Award sponsored by Guidant Group • Community Sports Award sponsored by Bedford Sports Foundation • Outstanding Achiever in Sports Award sponsored by Bedford Borough Council Sports Development Unit • Young Sports Volunteer of the Year (17 or under) sponsored by Team BEDS&LUTON

Nomination NOW!

• Online: visit www.bedford.gov.uk/sportsawards • By post: forms are available at Leisure Facilities across the Borough, or from Borough Hall, or the Customer Service Centre For more information or advice, please call 01234 718827 The Harpur Trust has been supporting Bedford Borough for over 450 years through grantmaking, almshouse provision and education.

FOR BEDFORD

www.harpurtrust.org.uk

SERVICES

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 1 5-7 YEARS

KEY STAGE 2 7-9 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

Reassurance when you need it most

Neville Funeral Service

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

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

31

‘Cygnet ’ Bus Smartcard

O

ctober 1st saw the launch of the new ‘Cygnet’ smartcard enabling bus users to switch freely between two local bus operators without the need to buy multiple tickets.

Bus operators Stagecoach and Grant Palmer have worked with Bedford Borough Council to launch this new smartcard, which allows for unlimited travel on any bus within the designated area, across a day or a week.

The Cygnet travel zone equates to the area currently covered by the Stagecoach Megarider and includes the whole of Bedford and Kempston, as well as surrounding villages such as Bromham, Clapham, Cople and Elstow.

community publishing ...the full media solution from design to production to print

Cllr Charles Royden, Portfolio Holder for Transport at Bedford Borough Council said: “This will make local bus travel easier and more convenient, so it’s good news for bus users.

Enabling people to change from one operator to another on the same smartcard ticket removes a barrier to bus usage, and is a real step forward for local public transport.”

The ‘Cygnet’ smartcard is £5 for a day ticket, with the weekly ticket priced at £17. You can buy your smartcard on Stagecoach and Grant Palmer buses. Ask your driver for a new card which costs 50p, which you can keep and re-use. Your ticket products can be loaded onto your smartcard on the bus when you purchase.

Professional Service Competitive Quotes christa@communitypublishing.co.uk Call us today on 01234 962929 or 07827 015170 for a quote

• Magazines • Advert Design • Folders • Programmes • Brochures • Artwork only service

32

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WIN!

A MEAL FOR 4 PEOPLE AT MEXICO BEDFORD – THE HOME OF AUTHENTIC MEXICAN HOME COOKING!

We’re about real honest Mexican food and we aim to bring high levels of authenticity across everything we do; in food, drinks and of course our ambience. Our food has been created by the incredibly talented chef, Johnny Hernandez, our drinks by our talented bar team; full of signature margaritas and aqua fresca that steal the show.

Come on down and explore the true taste. You won’t be disappointed.

To be in with a chance to win this fabulous prize please answer the following question What is the name of the award-winning Chef that MEXIco restaurant works closely with?

Email your answer to christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk including your name and address and contact number by Friday 10th November.

MEXIco Unit 3B, Merchant Gate Riverside Square Bedfordshire MK40 1AS TEL: 01234 261727

Refurbishing t igh adl CarwithHe excellent service and results

H

ave you noticed poor headlamp performance when driving in reduced light conditions? Has your car failed its MOT or received advisory due to the condition of its headlights? Does your car look tired and older than its days? We can rectify all of the above through our extremely cost effective and excellent mobile service.

We pride ourselves on excellent customer service and enjoy a 100% customer satisfaction rate with comments such as ‘Wow they are like new!’ and ‘I can see so much better at night now’.

Bright Lights are a father and daughter operated local family business offering a full mobile service. Covering Beds, Cambs, Northants and Bucks, we can come to your place of work or home. Having received full and extensive training from a local refurbishment company, our service is second to none.

www.brightlightsheadlights.co.uk

Visit our Facebook page Bright Lights Headlights page to read more reviews.

Call us now for a no obligation quote on 07899 998306.

BRIGHTLIGHTS HEADLIGHT REFURBISHING

PREVENT MOT FAILURES IMPROVE HEADLIGHT PERFORMANCE IMPROVES VEHICLE APPEARANCE INCREASE IN VEHICLE SALES

MOBILE SERVICE – WE COME TO YOU CONTACT DAVID:

T. 01234 953153 M. 07899 998306

www.brightlightsheadlights.co.uk 34

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SERVICES

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

35

COMMUNITY

Lives

Shared

S

hared Lives carers share their home and family life with an adult with learning disabilities. Shared Lives Bedford enables adults and young adults aged from 16, with a learning disability to experience life in a family setting either long-term, or for a short break or by having support to access community activities such as going to the theatre, cinema, visiting the pub or just going for a walk and a chat. However, for this service to thrive we need to recruit more carers to give more people the chance to experience this unique and individual care and support.

36

As a Shared Lives Carer, you will undergo an assessment and be trained to enable people to access and enjoy a more fulfilling, independent life. You will also receive competitive financial payments on a self-employed basis for the support or sessions that you provide and are eligible for a Shared Lives Tax Break.

Sharing your home and life with an adult with learning disabilities through Shared Lives can have a wealth of positive experiences for all involved.

If you want to know more about Shared Lives in Bedford, please contact Sheena Blake (Scheme Manager) or one of the Shared Lives Bedford team on 01234 228560 or email sharedlives@bedford.gov.uk

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Make a difference Share your home & community life Are you looking for a life changing job you can do in your own home?

Shared Lives is a unique flexible service helping people aged 16 years and over with learning disabilities to live life to the full. We are recruiting carers now.

To find out more, please contact:

www.bedford.gov.uk/sharedlives 01234 228560

rd Gam e Boareview…

SERVICES

& GARDENER CM

BUILDERS LTD General builders with over 30 years experience For your free quotations please contact us on Te: 01234 602 313 Mob: 07511 349 450 Email: chrismgardener@hotmail.com

Pandemic The world is in crisis, four viruses have appeared across the planet and only you and your team can stop them from spreading through the continents.

Pandemic is a co-operative game where up to four players take on different roles & work together to combat the virulent diseases threatening the world. It is a very simple game in what you can actually do every turn but really requires a good deal of thinking and planning to actually win… something that is not very easy to do at all!

The clever thing about the game is that while you are more likely to lose than win you always know where you went wrong and think that next time you will succeed. It is pitched at that perfect level where you can head down the road to disaster very quickly and go from having control of the viruses to running around like headless chickens before the world goes down in flames.

This game is a challenge but the feeling you get when you do win is almost euphoric, you feel like you have actually achieved something.

And if you find you like Pandemic then you can move on to Pandemic Legacy, possibly the best game ever made!

Simon White 38

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en. undertak

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Bromham Windows & Home Improvements 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

BRIDGE ROOFING All aspects of roofing, facias and guttering.

Free quotes All work guaranteed 01234 404080 07542 719971

www.roofingbedford.co.uk

Swing’s the thing, the region’s premier big band, returns to “The Place” on Thursday 14th December with their final show of 2017.

Rhapsody in Blue is an all Gershwin affair and includes no less than 3 versions of the composer’s masterpiece. Glenn Miller’s 1943 hit record and Gordon Goodwin’s more recent version will understandably be eclipsed by a performance of the original 1924 version written for the Paul Whiteman Band. The soloist on that occasion was Gershwin himself; tonight’s soloist is the multi-talented Lincoln Noel. The show includes music by Count Basie, Stan Kenton, Ted Heath, Glenn Miller and more, all of it written by George and Ira Gershwin THIS IS A FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITY TO HEAR BIG BAND SWING AT ITS VERY BEST, CLOSE UP & ACCOUSTIC. OUR RECENT SHOWS AT THE PLACE HAVE SOLD OUT, SO BOOK NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT. THURS 14TH DEC, THE PLACE, BEDFORD, START 8:00, TICKETS £12.50. BOOK ONLINE AT www.theplacebedord.org.uk OR CALL 07802 705401

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 3rd November 7.15 for 7.30 start Keith Morton is an experienced portraitist who has a straight-forward approach to painting.

Demonstrating in acrylics, he will talk about the basics of head construction and give useful tips for achieving a likeness.

Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford, MK418EB Entry is free for members, £5 for visitors. Contact Jean Paterson 01234 307210 or www.bedsartsociety.co.uk for information Hardy Plant Society, Cambs & Beds.

Saturday November 4th, 2.00pm Short AGM will be followed by a talk by Andrew Ward on ‘Indispensable plants’. Andrew is a nursery owner & will bring plants for sale. Tools & sundries stall.

Visitors welcome £4.

Weatherley Centre, Stratton School, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, Beds. SG18 8JH Alpine Garden Society, Bedfordshire group Monday November 6th 7.30 for 8.00pm Please join us for Peter & Jackie Murray’s talk on Snowdrops. They are not just for February!

Local nursery Plant sales (not just alpine plants), plant exhibits. Visitors very welcome £3 including refreshments. Wilstead Village Hall, MK45 3BX Bedford Architectural, Archaeological, & Local History Society Wednesday 8th November 7:30pm Illustrated talk – “Conservation and The Future of the Civic Movement”. Ian Harvey (Civic Voice) Putnoe Heights Church & Community Centre Bedford MK41 8EB Non-members welcome – £3:00 entry Enquiries (01234) 365095. www.baalhs.org.uk Bedford Local Group of The Wildlife Trust Wednesday 8th November Meeting 7-15 for 7-30 pm ‘Rushden Lakes’ An illustrated talk about this new reserve and development by katie King,a Wildlife Trust staff member. Priory Methodist Church Hall, Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ. Plenty parking available, All welcome, no charge but voluntary contributions are appreciated. Further details available under Events on www.wildlifebcn.org or at 01234 266057

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Antique Showroom Open Days – Williams Antiques Friday 10 & Saturday 11 November 10-4pm each day There will also be two other antique traders. Ralph Moss selling silver and collectables and Copperplate Maps selling maps and prints. Furniture, pictures, glass, silver and ceramics. Lots of ideas for unusual Christmas presents. Refreshments available.

1 Hampshire Buildings, School Lane, Colmworth, Bedford MK44 2JZ Tel 01234 378866.

Eight Months that shook the world – Russia in 1917 Talk by Dr Jonathan Davis of Anglia University to the HA (Historical Association-Bedford) Wednesday 15th November Bedford School Library, de Parys Ave, Burnaby Rd gate, MK40 2TU, 7.30 pm Free to HA members. Others welcome with a donation.

Details 07989 837819/01234 266839 Embroiderers’ Guild, Bedford Branch Thursday November 16th 7.30 for 8.00pm Interested in textiles? Tonight Jill Izzard will be speaking on ‘Forever Stitching’. Please see www.jilltextileart.com for examples of her work.

Lots of chat, previously loved goods for sale and information about local textile events. Visitors welcome, £4 including refreshments.

St Mark’s Church, Calder Rise, Brickhill MK41 7UY Bedford RSPB local group Meet at ARA club, Manton Lane Bedford MK41 7PF. Thursday 16th November at 7.30 pm Jo Thomas presents ‘Birds of India’. Jo runs the travel company ‘Wild about Travel’ and has a vast & interesting knowledge of India’s spectacular wildlife.

Suitable for Experts and Novices, RSPB membership not essential. Entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 annual group membership £5 Reg. Charity No. 207076, more info www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford Biddenham Gardeners Association Tuesday 21st November at 7.30 Biddenham Village Hall PAXTON PITTS – A COMMUNITY NATURE RESERVE

By Trevor Gunton Bedford Advanced Drivers – Royal Society for Prevention of Accidents Tuesday 21st November at 8pm The meeting will be used to discuss with its members and guests RoSPA’s proposals for changes to its association with its groups. Also changes the group are making for the future. This is an important meeting for members and anyone interested in Advanced Driving.

Lecture Room at the Bedford Athletic Stadium in Barkers Lane, Bedford. Plenty of parking available.

Any enquiries about the group can be directed to our website ‘www.roada-bedford.org.uk’ or by telephoning 01234 266070.

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Bedford National Trust Association November meeting 28th November at 2.00 for 2.30 Addison Centre, Kempston “ Statues in Bedford” a talk by Paul Nicholson There will be a small entry fee. T ea and biscuits from 2.00. Everyone welcome.

For further information please contact Betty Thomas on 01480 860 421 or go to the web site www.bedfordnt.org.uk Rushden Flower Arrangement Club, Thursday 30th November 7 for 7:30 p.m A Demonstration -. By Emma Remington – “Christmas Carols”. Raffle of designs and Seasonal Refreshments Held at the Full Gospel Church Hall, High Street South, NN10 0QX. Members £4.00 Visitors £8.00 For more information please go to our facebook page or call Carol 01933 412847

CHRISTMAS FAYRES & MARKETS Priory Methodist Church Autumn/Christmas Fair Saturday 4th November 10.00am – 2.00pm Stalls selling cakes and preserves, cards, gifts, paintings, crafts and others. Raffle, competitions, activities for children, refreshments and lunches. Entry is £1 (accompanied children free).

Priory Methodist Church, Newnham Avenue, Bedford.

All proceeds to the Church.

Willington Market Saturday 11th November: 10am – 12noon.

‘Vintage memories’ plus pre-Christmas gifts and the opportunity to place orders for food and goodies for Christmas (including 2mins silence at 11.00am).

Willington Peace Memorial Hall, Village Market, Further details: contact Jan on 01234 831687 or hello@ willingtonvillagemarket.co.uk Tiddlywinks Play Group Christmas Gift Fair Sunday 12th November 11.00am – 3.00pm Kempston Hammers Sports & Social Club High Street, Kempston.

Please come along to browse and buy at stalls raising funds for Tiddlywinks playgroup. Refreshments available. Entry 50 pence.

St Mark’s Church & Community Centre 23rd Annual Christmas Craft Fayre Saturday 18th November 2017 10.30am. – 3.30p.m.

Grand Prize Draw – 1st prize a digital television Professional craft stalls, Refreshments, Ploughman’s Lunches, Father Christmas.

Entrance 50p. Children Free Calder Rise/Avon Drive Bedford MK41 7UY Proceeds to Church Funds

Christmas Fair in aid of charities in the UK and abroad Saturday 18th November 10am – 4pm St Paul’s church, St Paul’s Sq, Bedford, MK40 1SQ To book a stall contact 01234 340163 http://www.stpaulschurchbedford.org.uk/ Christmas Market @ The Barns Sunday 19th November 12.00pm – 4.00pm The Barns will play host to a festive market and join a whole host of local suppliers offering a range of fantastic seasonal gifts – perfect for those last minute purchases. Free Entry The Barns Hotel,Cardington Road, Bedford “A Dickens Christmas Festival” November 25th – 26th Blunham Parish Church MK44 3NQ Windows decorated by various village organisations on a Dickens Theme.

Saturday 25th, 11:30 – 2:30 Various Stalls, Homemade Preserves, Cakes & Christmas puddings, Craft stalls, Raffle, Hot refreshments, and more …..

Sunday 26th, 2:00 – 4:00 Join us for a performance of Brass Music, Hand Bells and Dickens Readings, Raffle to be drawn afterwards...

Refreshments. Tickets £5. Pay at door More information on www.stedmundorstjamesblunham.com Christmas Fair British Red Cross Bedfordshire, Saturday 25thth November 2017, 10.00am – 4pm, Entry Fee £4. Programme will include demonstrations, tastings & activities.

Full details will be publicized closer to the event date.

Local School Choirs, stalls selling superb, quality items & many handmade gifts & products. Homemade cakes, refreshments, raffle, tombola & much more.

The Great Hall, Bedford Boys School, Burnaby Road, off De Parys Ave., Bedford, MK40 2TU. Parking/disabled parking available.

MS Therapy Centre Christmas Fayre Sunday 26th November 1pm – 4pm Adults £1 Children FREE Refreshments, tombola’s,Grand Raffle, Christmas Decorations. Santa’s Grotto £5 per child Bradbury House, Barkers Lane, Bedford MK41 9RX Christmas Charity Day Friday 1st December 10am – 4pm In aid of Cransley Hospice Kettering in memory of Howard Bosworth. Home baked cakes. Christmas gifts, handmade crafts, jewellery, handbags and cards.

Contact Julia on 01933 356424 juliaroberts@petercrisp.co.uk Peter Crisp Design Studio Church Street Rushden NN10 9YU

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WHAT’S ON St James’s Church, Biddenham – Christmas Bazaar Saturday 2nd December, 2.00pm to 4.30pm Stalls include jewellery, decorations and gifts, produce and cakes, bottle stall, planted bulbs, skin products, face painting, Father Christmas, raffle and refreshments. Entry £1 (Children free). All Welcome!

Biddenham Village Hall.

CLASSES, CLUBS & GROUPS MONDAYS

“Ouse Valley Singers A four-part harmony mixed choir who perform mainly for charitable purposes at churches, church halls, etc. In the North Beds area. Rehearsals are held in Sharnbrook Methodist Church every Monday evening at 7.30 p.m. performing mainly light music e.g. show music, folk songs, etc. We commence our autumn term on 11th September and we would welcome new members. Contact Sue Plant 01234 314229.”

Linedancing Monday Priory Methodist Church Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ Beginners/Improvers (Absolute Beginners Welcome) 7.30pm – 8.30pm 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

TUESDAYS

Bedford Camera Club Start the Season Bedford Camera Club kicks off a new season on October 3rd, with a review of the events we have planned through to May 2018.

To learn more come along to our first meeting, it is free to non-members. We meet every Tuesday at 7.30 pm, October through April at Scott Lower School, Bedford.

Contact John Gough (07748 572845). www.bedfordcameraclub.co.uk/ Reading, Writing and all things books Tuesdays – 10am to noon Saxon Games and Crafts Saxon Way, Great Denham MK41 4GP £3 pp includes refreshments Call 07877951630 for details Bedford Advanced Drivers – Royal Society for Prevention of Accidents We meet bi monthly on the third Tuesday of each odd month in the Lecture Room at the Bedford Athletic Stadium in Barkers Lane, Bedford at 8.00pm.

Our next meeting will therefore be Tuesday 21st November. Any enquiries about the group can be directed to our website ‘www.roada-bedford.org.uk’ or by telephoning 01234 266070.

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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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 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

WEDNESDAYS

Local Friendship Group Welcomes new members We meet at a local public house every Wednesday at 8pm. Call 07835 732412/07925 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 1st & 3rd Wednesday of most months.

Enjoy craft and good conversation – 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.

Tudor Reeds Folk Dance Club Meet on First, Third and Fifth Wednesday of each month eve 8-10pm We are a friendly social Folk Dancing Club St Marks Church Hall, Calder Rise (off Avon Drive), Brickhill, Bedford MK41 7UY. It’s good fun for only £1 incl. refreshments. No partner required. Rosemary Mcneilage 01234 405594 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 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.

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.

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WHAT’S SERVICES ON THURSDAYS

Follow on beading course Thurs 9th Nov 7pm to 9pm £10 per person Saxon Games and Crafts Saxon Way, Great Denham MK40 4FU Call 07877951630 for info or to book Follow on crochet course to make ‘Dragon Scale’ gloves Thurs 26th Nov – 7pm to 9pm £12 per person. Saxon Games and Crafts, Saxon Way, Great Denham, MK40 4FU Call 07877951630 for info or to book An evening making Christmas decorations Thurs 30th Nov 7pm to 9pm £10 per person Saxon Games and Crafts Saxon Way, Great Denham MK40 4FU Call 07877951630 for info or to book 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. Contact Ken Baddley 01234 310018 www.bedfordgalleryquire.org.uk Bedford Folk Dance Company Meet Thursday eve 8 – 10 pm.

Friendly Country and Folk Dance Club Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford MK41 8EB It’s good fun for only £2 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 – Art for fun and friendship for all Thursdays 09.30am – 12.30pm A supportive club where beginners to those more experienced can develop their art work Suggested donation £4. Bromham Baptist Church, Village Road, Bromham, MK43 8JP Enquiries please call: Jackie 07880 518465, Kevin 07780 756436 or Lindsay 07960 329609

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 Thursday Kempston Hammers Social And Sports Club 134 High Street High Street Kempston Bedford MK42 7BN. Beginners/Improvers (Absolute Beginners Welcome) 7.00pm – 8.00pm Improver/Intermediate 8.00pm – 10.00pm www: http://dancingstars.comli.com/ Tele:07969847553

FRIDAYS

Putnoe Heights Machine Knitting Group.

Meets on alternate Fridays 9.30 – 12.30 September to July Beginners and Improvers all welcome Contact Marion Sutton on 01234 217647 Bedford Fine Companions Folk Dance Club 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).

We are a friendly group always ready to welcome new members. No partner required. Contact David Cooke on 01234 823920, https://finecompanions.wordpress. com or find us on Facebook.

Bedfordshire Family History Society Welcomes new members at their monthly meetings on the 1st Friday of every month.

Contact Lynn on 01234 306482 Held in the Drama Hall of Mark Rutherford School, Wentworth Drive, Bedford MK41 8PX www.bfhs.org.uk 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

SUNDAYS

Chill out zone – a quiet moment before the week starts Sun 19th Nov 7pm to 9pm Saxon Games and Crafts Saxon Way Great Denham MK40 4FU Call 07877951630 for info

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WHAT’S ON COMMUNITY / CHARITY EVENTS Harvest 50/60’s night Sat 4th Nov 7.30pm to 11.30pm Music from Samantha Hughes Christ the King Parish Hall, Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP. Bar available, Raffle, Bring your own food Tickets £5 adult, £3 child For information call on 01234 965497 Great Barford Community Quiz Friday 17 November In the village hall, bar open from 7pm, quiz starts 7.30pm, teams of 4, £7 per person includes supper.

More details and to book a team, call Louise on 01234 870443.

Table Top Sale Saturday 18th Nov 9am to Noon Christ the King Parish Hall, Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP Entry 50p, Refreshments available For information call 01234 965497 Afternoon Vintage Tea Friday 24th Nov 2pm to 4pm Christ the King Parish Hall Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP Admission £3 – Tea, cake and dancing For Information call 01234 404563 The Corsairs proudly present ‘Saturday night at the Movies’ Sat 25th November 6pm Clapham Village Hall. Tickets inc food and entertainment £10. Available from any of The Corsairs or call 07799 843026. In aid of Local Charities AEG Home Appliance Cookery Demonstration Saturday 25th November 10.30am and 1pm each session 90 minutes Watch the AEG home economist in action demonstrating the benefits of the induction hob, the multi function oven and the combi steam oven and an opportunity to sample the food cooked too! Places are strictly limited so pre-booking is essential by contacting 01933 356424 or info@petercrisp.co.uk Peter Crisp Design Studio Church Street Rushden NN10 9YU Candlelit Advent Carol Service Sunday 3rd December 5.30 pm St Paul’s church, St Paul’s Sq, Bedford, MK40 1SQ

HEALTH & WELLBEING 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

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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 Gentle exercise sessions 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 01234 327791

MUSIC, DANCE & THEATRE The Fantastic Foxes @ Sharnbrook Mill Theatre, MK44 1NP Sunday 26th November 2.30 for 3 pm Joanna David, Edward Fox and Freddie Fox in conversation with David Saint, about their careers as part of a theatrical dynasty. Ticket: £20, includes Fizz Reception; Tea & Cakes after ‘The Audience with…’,from Brian Woodrow 01234 349455/ bwoodrow38@btinternet.com.

Appearances subject to professional engagements.

A ‘Warm Up’ Appeal event. Reg. Charity.

Bedford Organ and Keyboard Club Wednesday 29 November 7.30 – 10.00 pm Concert with CHRIS POWELL Addison Centre, Kempston, Bedford, MK42 8PN Members £5 Non-Members £6. Pay at door Tel: 01234 344423 www.organfax.co.uk/clubs/bedford

SPORTS & OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES ARCHERY

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 Thursday 7.00pm – 9.00pm and Sunday 2.00pm – 4.00pm at Putnoe Primary School & Field, Church Lane, Bedford For further details visit our website or contact info@ ousevalleyarchers.com

BADMINTON

Wootton Badminton Club Wootton Upper School, Hall End, Wootton, Beds, MK43 9HT Thursdays from 7.30pm to 10.00pm This friendly club welcomes anyone who does or has played badminton, sorry no absolute beginners.

Contact: Freda Dunlop 01234 270638 Email: garry.freda@btinternet.com www.woottonbedfordbadmintonclub.weebly.com

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WHAT’S SERVICES ON BASKETBALL / DODGEBALL

Bedford Thunder Basketball club Mixed gender sessions Age 10-13 3.00-4.30 every Saturday Age 14-16 4.30-6.00 every Saturday Men’s club 7.35-9.45 every Tuesday All session in Bedford Academy, for further information contact bedfordthunder@outlook.com or visit our website www.bedfordthunder.com Bedford Mighty Eagles Dodgeball team We are a club that plays at a high level but would love anyone from any sporting ability and background to come down and give it a go as long as you are 15 and above. We have a men’s and women’s squad. It is great fun and a fantastic way to keep fit. We train on Tuesday’s 8-9 at: Hastingsbury school, Hill rise, Bedford, Mk42 7EB. First training session is FREE and then each session is only £3 after that

BOWLS

Kempston Park Indoor Bowls Club We are an indoor bowls club with superb facilities We offer bowls coaching from qualified coaches for beginners of all ages whether or not you are a club member. We provide you with bowls and bowls shoes and up to five lessons without any obligation to join.

290 Hillgrounds Road Kempston MK42 8UB 01234 852291. www.kempstonparkbowls.co.uk Bromham Short Mat Bowling Club Tuesday evenings 7.00 pm – 9.30 pm (year round) and Monday afternoons 2.00 pm – 4.30 pm (September to June only) We are a friendly group of people that play short mat bowls. It is a fun, in-expensive, sociable game for all ages with a cuppa at half time. We meet in Bromham Village Hall and the first two sessions are free and where training can be given. All that you would require to bring is a pair of flat shoes or even your slippers!

Contact Sue Amor on 01234 823610 for more details and we hope you will come along and give it a try.

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 Bedford Borough Bowling Club Est over 100 years are now enrolling new members and forming a junior section.

Probably the most prestigious bowling club in the Bedford area with both indoor and outdoor bowling greens. We offer FREE tuition from qualified instructors, with all equipment provided, we just ask you to wear flat shoes. Afterwards, you can obtain a cool drink or a coffee from the bar and relax in the comfortable lounge area. There are also restaurant facilities for lunch time meals. So give it a try, bring the family all are welcome.

Free parking. Check our web site www.boroughbowlin. org.uk or telephone 01234 340736 for more details

Bedford Bowling Club Welcome Sessions Every Tuesday and Friday 2pm – 4pm The Bedford Bowling club holds taster sessions in Bedford Park (near the café), and welcomes anyone who would like to try the game. We are a warm, friendly club and the green is in a sheltered & idyllic part of the park. We provide all equipment for these sessions, and only ask you wear flat soled shoes to protect the green.

There is no cost or obligation and tea and biscuits are provided. For full information ring Ray on 305695, Warwick on 403551, or Alison on 343257. Or check out our new web site google “bedfordbowlingclub, Bedford – hugo fox”.

CYCLING

Cyclists Touring Club, Bedfordshire We meet on a regular basis and have rides to various places, and cater for all abilities. We ride as a group for the pleasure of riding and socialising, nobody gets left behind ! See website ctc-bedfordshire.co.uk for details of our forthcoming rides, or ring 01234 219148 for further information.

FOOTBALL

Bedford United Football Club Bedford United is a non-profit making football club holding the FA Charter Standard status and providing a fun, friendly, safe and structured environment to learn, play and enjoy football.

We have an established range of teams from our Academy right through to our Adults so if you’re interested in playing, coaching or helping out visit us at www.bedfordunitedfc.co.uk.

Bedford Girls and Ladies FC 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.

RUGBY

Little Scrummers Rugby Club Every Saturday at Kings Oak Primary School 8.30am until 11.10am.

Exciting, fun & inspiring children’s tag rugby classes for girls and boys from 18 months up to 7 years old!

We want to bring rugby to children at a young age to enable them to build their confidence, enjoy sport & have fun!

For more information & to book in for a FREE TRIAL please visit us at www.littlescrummers.com

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

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

Friday 10th November

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45

Remember Remember

the 5th of November!

Scott Primary Fantastic Firworks Thursday 2nd November Gates open 5.30pm & display starts approx 6.30pm.

Hot food & drinks, glow noveltys & mini funfair Advance tickets cost £10 family (2+3), £4 individual, Under 4’s FREE. Pay on the Gate price for Family ticket is £11 Scott Lower School, Hawk Drive, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK41 7JA The Bedford Blues annual Fireworks Display and Funfair Friday 3rd November Gates open 6pm Kids display 7pm Main display 8pm Bar & Refreshments Tickets are just £5 in advance and online, with children under 4 going free. £8 on the gate.

Goldington Rd, Bedford MK40 3NF www.bedfordrugby.co.uk

Oakley Sports & Social Club Fireworks display Saturday 4th November Gates open at 5:30pm, and the display commences at 7:30pm.

Tickets are available on the night, however we recommend that they are bought in advance from the OSSC clubhouse to avoid disappointment. £5/adult, £2/child and family tickets are £10.

Refreshments and hot food will be available Church Lane, Oakley, Bedfordshire MK43 7RJ Tel 01234 824977 Bonfire & Firework Display Blunham Playing Fields Saturday 4th November Gates open 5pm Pulled pork, barbecue, spud & soup & a full bar! £5 adult, £1 under 18’s, under 5’s FREE Tel: 07753 357666 Email: thebpfa@gmail.com

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47

t's on WhataMK Theatre this month CELEBRITY FASHION-GURU GOK WAN JOINS BRIAN CONLEY FOR CHRISTMAS PANTOMIME, CINDERELLA

M

ilton Keynes Theatre have announced that comedian, television presenter and musical theatre star Brian Conley will be joined in this year’s Christmas pantomime, Cinderella, by celebrity fashion-Guru, chef, author, presenter and DJ Gok Wan.

Gok Wan will play The Fairy Gokmother, offering helpful style tips to The Ugly Sisters and creating the most magical ball gown in panto-land for Cinderella! Cinderella in Milton Keynes marks Gok’s fifth pantomime appearance, the first of which was the subject of the Channel 4 documentary Gok Does Panto.

Cinderella sees pantomime producer Qdos Entertainment return to Milton Keynes theatre for the first time in over a decade. The Company’s managing director Michael Harrison said “I’m very excited that we are able to bring Brian and Gok back together on stage after their previous recordbreaking panto seasons together in Southampton

and Southend. The pair working together are comedy-gold and this show will definitely be a must-see on this year’s panto calendar.”

Emma Sullivan, Theatre Director at Milton Keynes Theatre says: “We’re thrilled to announce that Gok Wan will be strutting his stuff and working his wardrobe wonders as the Fairy Gokmother in pantomime this year alongside Brian Conley. Gok is everyone’s favourite fashion-guru who is sure to be loved by Milton Keynes audiences. This pantomime season promises to be magical… oh yes it does!”

Panto-favourite Brian Conley’s casting as Buttons was announced by the Theatre earlier this year in a production packed with spectacular special effects, stunning costumes, big musical numbers and lots of comedy for all the family.

Cinderella runs at Milton Keynes Theatre from Saturday 9th December 2017 until Sunday 14th January 2018. Tickets are on sale now at www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes.

Performances: Sat 9 Dec 2017 – Sun 14 Jan 2018.

Tue – Sat 7pm, Tue – Sat mats 2.30pm

(except 12th, 13th, 14th Dec and Mon – Fri

performances in Jan, mats 1pm)

Sun mats 1pm & 5pm Prices: From £14 Box Office: 0844 871 7652 (bkg fee)* Groups 10+: 0333 009 5393 Access Booking: 0800 912 6971 (bkg fee)* Online Booking: www.atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes (bkg fee) *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)

SERVICES

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SERVICES

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Come & Enjoy Your Local Library!

Meet family and friends, browse and borrow books, use a PC, access free Wifi - all at our fantastic libraries Extended & self-service LibraryPlus hours available at Bedford Central, Bromham and Wootton Libraries Join the hundreds who’ve signed up to LibraryPlus already!

Pop into your local library to sign up Visit our website: www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries Follow us on Twitter: @BedsLibraries Follow us on Facebook: @BedfordshireLibraries

Bedford Central Lib rary now open Sundays!

Film

Review

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IT Stephen King is an acknowledged master of horror and has had many films made from his books, though most of them have been less than impressive. The original IT is accepted as one of the best so a remake comes as a bit of a surprise, just like the realisation that this version is an even better adaptation than the original.

It is the story of a small town and the monster that haunts it, at least that is the very basic view of it as there is so much more to it than that. It is a throwback to films from the 80’s because it is as much an adventure movie with children as it is a horror. Somehow it manages to seamlessly blend the two genres and create a really magical film that is at times funny, moving and scary.

This is definitely aided by some fabulous acting from the youngsters cast in the main roles, all the main characters are brilliant and part of the reason you really get drawn into their predicament.

If you’ve seen and loved Stranger Things then this is a film to see, it has the same feel and energy as that popular series.

Simon White 52

SHOWROOM NOW OPEN

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09/03/2017 15:40

Book

Review Plays About Britain

by Craig Taylor How often do you hear someone complain that they never have time to read? If so, Craig Taylor’s superb book is a godsend.

The title is more or less an accurate description of the contents and the format of each play is the same: a brief sentence to set the scene, then the dialogue takes over.

The longest runs to three or four pages, the shortest to one sentence. A range of scenes is covered – from two women in a queue at a Surrey bank, to a farmer in Kent speaking on his mobile phone from a tractor, to a late night on Newcastle Quayside. The characters are diverse too – young and old, drunk and sober, flippant and serious.

However, it is the perfectly observed sharpness of speech that makes this book stand out. At first, you could believe that Taylor has merely been in the right place at the right time and recorded everything that he heard. Every ending is well judged and either rounds off the play with a ‘reveal’ or a cliffhanger – always showing, never telling. Ideal for reading in short bursts or longer chunks – well worth a look.

By Willow Coby 53

SERVICES

Sureclean PROFESSIONAL CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Tile & Hard Floor Cleaning DRIVEWAY & PATIO CLEANING Re-sanding & Sealing GUTTER CLEANING, INSPECTION & REPAIRS Roof Moss Removal

DC CARPENTRY Specialist in Carpentry & Joinery ly Free design on supp s en ch kit ted and fit Doors & Frames supplied & fitted Replacement Upvc facia and gutters Upvc doors and windows Laminate & Wooden flooring Decking fences and gates 6 Single hite ed w panell ply and fit up es door s ndles, hing inc ha nd latch a £70 from

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At Acorn House we take the time to give your pet the care they deserve • 15 minute consultation slots as standard - no extra cost • More time to listen to your concerns and answer your questions • More time for your pet to relax • A thorough physical examination, dental health and weight check included in every consultation • Free of charge follow up by telephone if you have any further questions when you get home!

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

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

56

Could your pet have

arthritis?

D

ogs and cats are prone to developing arthritis in their joints as they get older. This type of arthritis is more properly known as “osteoarthritis” and occurs as a result of wear and tear on the joint, causing damage to the cartilage.

This makes the joint surface rough and painful to move.

How will I know if my pet has arthritis?

Dogs with arthritis tend to be stiff when they get up from rest, and may limp, hobble or simply move more slowly when they go for walks. Cats may be less willing to jump, climb and play and may also appear stiff. Difficulties with walking may be more pronounced when the pet is going up or down stairs. Pets with arthritis may also sleep more, groom less, become less sociable and can even react angrily when they are stroked or lifted.

Which pets are most at risk?

The older the pet, the more likely they are to suffer from arthritis, but dogs and cats can be affected at any age. If your pet has suffered from previous joint problems (e.g. following an accident, or as a result of elbow or hip dysplasia) then arthritis is more likely to develop.

What can I do to help?

First, consult your vet, who will be able to rule out other conditions and confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment for arthritis may include: • Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication.

• Weight management • Adjustments to the home such as comfortable bedding, non-slip mats across slippery floors, ramps to get in and out of the car • Physiotherapy, and controlled exercise programmes • Dietary adjustments and supplements At Acorn House Veterinary Hospital we have a team of experienced veterinary surgeons and nurses and an ACPAT registered veterinary physiotherapist to help your pets stay comfortable and active.

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

57

Take Me Home

Cats Protection Bedford and Biggleswade

Fudge

Moonie & DJ

Lola

Recently Homed.

Stunning pair looking for a human to fuss them.

Affectionate girl looking for a home where she will get lots of fuss.

Working Cats

Lacey

Tilly

Out of work mousers looking for work.

Young lady looking to forget her days as a stray.

Friendly lady looking for a home to settle into.

Ted

Roo Roo

Poppy

Handsome boy looking for a garden to explore.

Beautiful young lady looking for a home to have fun in.

Shy young lady needs a home to bring her out of her shell.

Matilda

Bunty, Bounty & Brian

Graham, Hector & Jasper

Young mum looking for a home to call her own.

Kittens looking for a new home to grow into

Stunning kittens looking for a home they can stay together in

Cats Protection Bedford and Biggleswade Branch Call 0345 260 2505 or visit www.bedford.cats.org.uk 58

SERVICES PETS

OPEN FOR ADOPTION

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 Phone: 0345 260 2505 Online: www.bedford.cats.org.uk Email: helpline@bedford.cats.org.uk

Reg Charity 203644 (England and Wales) SCO37711 (Scotland)

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67 59

Your Tarotscopes for November 2017...

by Susan Peppiatt Scorpio

Lots to think about regarding new work or new creativity within family. Also a month where an exciting conversation brings new thoughts of friendship or even love.

This month speeds up so that the final part of the month is a constant whirl of events and emotions, most of them good.

Sagittarius

Relationships take on a new expectation and sense of worth with happiness and fulfilment in both work and children. It’s a time to relax and let others enjoy time being around you, rather than trying to make times special, enjoy them all.

Capricorn

Going back to study shows as a good idea as it brings with it a new awareness of what is needed in life as well as what is enjoyable.

This also shows as opening doors to new friends and a new sense of fun and excitement lasting into the New Year.

Aquarius

It’s time to commit yourself to something or someone that has been in the mind for a long time. Don’t allow fear to hold you back from this long wanted dream, but do realise that if you don’t start soon, you may never start; its easier than you think once that initial step is taken.

Pisces

Hotels and different places to be come into mind whether it’s just for a holiday, or a new place to live.

The difficulty seems to be more in the choice of place, rather than the house itself. Take a walk on the wild side and get some bracing fresh air into your lungs.

Aries

It looks like hurry and rush around those born under the sign of Aries this November, but the advice is to take things gently and make sure that they are right before proceeding, to save time later on re-doing things.

This applies particularly well with things to do work and money.

Taurus

A new love or a new child or even a new pet show as evident this month; and as usual, this is all consuming, adding to already present commitments.

The advice from the cards is to try not to spread yourself too thinly or a lot of the joy is lost.

Gemini

This month has more than its share of difficulty but it all shows as being a means to an end before better times arrive. Be prepared to use your best senses and intuition on how to handle difficult people; really listen to hear what they say and you’ll come through it well.

Cancer

If you are tired of something which never seems to change, it’s within your ability to move past it, as long as you are strong-minded; don’t just give in. Money is also seen as something which takes a better turn this month; the two may well be connected.

Leo

A return to loving life after a recent problem shows as strongly focused on this month, after problems take a backward step and seem less important and life and family step forward as more important and more fun. This will be sure to warm the cold November.

Virgo

A loving time with lovely people shows as fairly imminent.

Planning is usually intense, as Virgoans are perfectionists, but this time it would look less difficult and more a labour of love which is very much enjoyed.

Libra

A lot of pressure at work and a sense of not having enough time with loved ones shows this month and it’s all to do with time escaping quickly when it needs to be fully used. So this is a month not to dawdle and procrastinate as once things are done, there is time for relaxation.

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Recycling Rubbish Reclaiming Resources

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Prize crossword SERVICES

Complete the crossword, fill in your details below, cut out this section and send to the address below before Friday 10th November.

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

£25 Prize Across 1 Spotty breed of dog (10) 8 Popular TV serials (5) 9 Ballistic weapon (7) 10 Take someone’s breath away (7) 11 _____ wave, huge destructive volume of water (5) 12 Very poorly (2,1,3,3) 15 Return money (5) 17 A part of the body that’s often pierced (3,4) 19 Brides carry one of these (7) 20 Smoothly slip (5) 21 Exhibiting (10)

Down 1 3 4 5 6

Astonish, surprise (5) Eyelash cosmetic (7) Emotional, moody (13) Valuable possession (5) Rapidly revolve clothes to remove water after washing.

(4-3) 7 Shout, holler (4) 8 Footwear (4) 12 Seize and take legal custody of an item (7) 13 Lazy, disinclined to get a job (4-3) 14 In this place (4) 15 Cloak, cape (4) 16 Opposite of ‘mine’ (5) 18 Tear-inducing vegetable (5)

Name: Tel: Last month's winner was T Drake, Wixams 62

Address:

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63

GARDENING

Winter Injuries and

Recommendations

BREAKAGE FROM ICE/SNOW ACCUMULATIONS

Trees and Shrubs with poor structure and heavy/long limbs are prone to breakage due to the added weight of ice and snow.

Wood decay can also predispose branches and lead to failure from ice and snow loads.

Evergreens that have a large surface area to hold snow are especially prone to breakage.

DE-ICING/SALT ACCUMULATIONS (Road Rock Salt)

Commonly used to de-ice highways and pavements. The high levels of salt in the soil from pavement run off can kill plant roots. Sodium can be highly toxic to plants with salt spray significantly damaging plant foliage.

Symptoms: Progressive decline in plant vigour, leaves become dwarfed and brown with dieback and eventual death.

STEM SPLITTING

Generally occur on young thin barked trees such as Maple, Lime, Sycamore and Elm. The injury occurs from sudden drops in temperature from a sunny daytime high to very low night-time temperatures.

These may cause stem tissue freezing of the plant cells resulting in frost cracks.

Recommendations

Plants should be inspected by a professional arborist in late winter or early spring for symptoms of winter injuries. Plants stressed by winter injuries are more susceptible to pest and disease issues.

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 64

GARDENING

Guttering Problems?

• Gutters cleaned • Leaking gutters repaired • New guttering fitted All by a friendly, local, established company Call Rob on

01234 480244 or 07977 206403

For All Your Landscaping Needs Landscaping:

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

65

GARDENING

25th November-3rd December

National Tree Week

N

ovember 25th marks the start of National Tree Week, which in turn marks the start of treeplanting season.

Considering that most of us in the UK have fairly small plots we do love our trees. The trouble is we’re not always terribly good at choosing them. How many times have you driven through a housing estate and observed an enormous weeping willow or an enormous pine tree completely obscuring a front garden.

It can be tricky deciding what sort of tree to plant on a small, suburban plot but there are plenty of candidates. Generally trees up to 8-10m are considered suitable.

The best urban trees offer year-round interest.

Varieties of Acer Palmatum are rather lovely. They are elegant trees which have attractive green or purple foliage and colour beautifully in the winter.

For my money Amalanchier Lamarckii is about as hardworking a tree as you’ll come across. During March and April it produces a frothy show of white flowers, then in June these are replaced by attractive deep purple, and supposedly edible – though I’ve never tried them – fruits. Then, when Autumn arrives the tree pulls out all the stops and bursts into fiery colour. If you only have room for one tree then an Amelanchier won’t let you down.

66

Another hard worker is Sorbus hupehensis var. obtusa. This tree has a pretty shape and is attractive throughout the year. In the late spring it is covered in white blossom which is followed by masses of dark pink berries. The blue-green leaves turn red in the autumn.

It’s just my opinion of course but without at least one tree, a garden can seem flat and a little dull.

Trees provide structure and height but are also a haven for birds and insects, which in turn add colour and life. Why not plant a tree during this week. Our guide has some helpful tips.

How to Plant a Tree

Dig a hole at least twice the size of the root ball.

Make up a mixture of half compost and half soil from the hole. Put a few inches of this mix at the bottom of the hole.

Trees need support so drive a support stake into the hole at one edge. This needs to be done before the tree is planted or you risk damaging the roots.

Tip the tree from its container and loosen the roots a little. Place it into the hole and fill in with the soil and compost mixture. Firm it down with your heel.

Use proper straps to secure the tree to the post.

Water well!

GARDENING

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67

GARDENING

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GARDENING

RIGHT PRICE LANDSCAPES Your local expert - Block Paving - Patios - Fencing - Turf & Gravel Laid - Sleepers - And much more - All waste removed -

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69

BEDFORD

BLUES B

FOR ALL YOUR DECORATING NEEDS...

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

edford Blues have announced that this season will be a testimonial one for club stalwart Paul Tupai.

Toops’ joined Bedford in 2008 as a fresh faced 32-year-old and has since gone on to play 245 games for the Blues scoring 45 tries in the process, including a memorable hat-trick against CJ Advert.indd the Cornish Pirates in 2014.

His career is quite astonishing having first played representative rugby back in New Zealand in 1995 when the game turned professional. Tupai was a key member of the Bay of Plenty squad that won the Ranfurly Shield in 2004 and even turned out against the British Lions in 2005 before heading to England, and Northampton Saints, the following year.

www.cjz-decorating.co.uk Tel: 01234 960304 Mobile: 07929 181619

1

Local wedding & events photographer

13/08/2015 09:24

Capturing your special occasion

But it is at Goldington Road where Tupai truly settled and the Bedford Blues faithful have enjoyed every moment of his time at the club.

A host of events are planned for the year and you can read more at www.toops.co.uk or by following @sendinthetoops on Facebook and Twitter.

On the pitch, November sees the Blues switch home games to Friday night as they welcome Nottingham on the 10th and Hartpury on the 24th. You can buy discounted tickets for all Blues games at www.bedfordrugby.co.uk.

70

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Eagles The

W

ith the nights closing in and autumn well and truly here, the fixtures continue to ‘fall’ thick and fast for the Eagles. It has been an inconsistent start to the league season with some excellent performances, sandwiching some disappointing defeats.

It has been a different story in Cup football though, with the Eagles winning at higher opposition Dunstable Town in the Bedfordshire Senior Cup and progression into further stages of the FA Cup and Trophy.

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November’s home fixtures include: Saturday 1tth November: Beaconsfield Town (subject to FA Trophy progression) Tuesday 14th November: Aylesbury FC Saturday 25th November: Fleet Town (subject to FA Trophy progression) Follow the Eagles on social media via the following links: https://twitter.com/bedfordtown https://www. facebook.com/bedfordtown https://www.instagram. com/bedfordtownfc/ The next Supporters Club Quiz Night takes place on Friday 24th November. £5 per head, with an extra £1 payable for food from the Ploughman’s Supper, should you wish. For further information on 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.

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71

DIRECTORY 72

Bakeries La Rondine............................................................76

Bathrooms/Bedrooms Dream Doors.........................................................15 F and D Kitchens & Bathrooms.......................63 Peter Crisp.............................................................27 QP Interiors............................................................. 5

Builders & Property Services Bound & Bounce Resin Services.....................11 C & M Gardener Builders.................................38

Cattery Paddocks Boarding Cattery............................ 59

Carpentry D C Carpentry......................................................55

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

Charity Age UK.................................................................. 26 Bedford Daycare Hospice.................................14 Cats Protection................................................... 59 Hearing Dogs.......................................................25

Chauffeurs M&DH Executive Chauffeurs............................. 9

Childrens Parties CharacterKidz Parties....................................... 20

Chimney Sweep Black Horse Chimney Sweep........................ 20 Wilkins Chimney Sweep................................... 47

Cleaning Aroma Clean.........................................................27 CitrusClean............................................................49 J&D Window Cleaning....................................... 71 Oven Maestro.......................................................49 Sureclean...............................................................55

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Computer Repair/Maintenance/Sales

Garden Sevices/Supplies

PC Problem Solver...............................................21

J B Domestics.......................................................35

Artificial Grass...................................................... 69 Bartlett Tree Experts.......................................... 65 Beaver Sheds...................................................... 69 Bryan Johnson..................................................... 77 Driveway & Paving Doctor...............................68 Eden Tree Specialists........................................67 LWS..........................................................................67 M J Nicholson....................................................... 77 MK Guttering........................................................ 65 Mr Fix Property Maintenance..........................39 Prestige Lawns.....................................................67 Right Price Fencing............................................67 Right Price Landscapes.................................... 69 Sureclean...............................................................55 TPI........................................................................... 65 Whites..................................................................... 77

Electrician

Headlight Refurbishing

Afex.com................................................................76 Craddock Electrical........................................... 50 Down to Earth.......................................................76

BrightLights...........................................................34

Community Library Plus.............................................................51 Shared Lives.........................................................36 Sports Awards......................................................30

Curtains & Blinds Emperor Blinds.....................................................76

Education Mark Rutherford Sixth Form.............................. 17 Polam School.........................................................31

Electrical Goods / Repairs

Events Bedford BID Christmas........................................ 2 St Mark’s Christmas Craft Fayre..................... 47

Fireworks Goldings.................................................................63

Food & Drink The Coach House.............................................. 29

Funeral Planning Services CastleFern.............................................................22

Funeral Services Arnolds Funeral Service....................................31

Garage Doors Almond Garage Doors...................................... 77

Health, Beauty & Fitness Beauty Lodge.......................................................23 Bedford Chiropractic Clinic..............................25 Feet To Go.............................................................25

Holidays & Travel Drury Holidays...................................................... 47

House Clearance The Bizarre............................................................ 77

Ironmongers Goldings.................................................................63

Kitchens Dream Doors.........................................................15 F and D Kitchens.................................................63 Homeworks Property Maintenance..............68 Peter Crisp.............................................................27

Leisure Cineworld..............................................................54 Milton Keynes Theatre......................................48

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Optometrist

Security

John Kaye..............................................................23

A Rocket.................................................................53 Ace Security............................................................11 J Dean Security.....................................................21

Painting & Decorating Bromham Painter & Decorating......................49 Craig Johnson......................................................70 David Lower Decorating...................................76 M H Decorating................................................... 50 Maulden Painting & Decorating......................76

Photographer Noel Lees..............................................................70

Plasterer CP Ceilings............................................................53 Craig Johnson......................................................70

Plumbing, Heating & Drainage Aquasure Plumbing............................................35 C M Plumbing & Heating.................................... 9 Cromwell Stoves.................................................52 Drain Doctor..........................................................36 LCA Plumbing & Heating..................................55 T R Donnelly......................................................... 77 The Bedford Plumbers.......................................61

Print & Design Services Community Publishing.......................................32

Property Maintenance

Senior Care Home Instead.......................................................24 Age UK.................................................................. 26

Skip Hire Paul Riches Skips.................................................61

Taxi/Airport Transfer Ace Cars.................................................................63

Tiling Dave Moore Tiling..............................................35

TV Satellite Services J Dean Security.....................................................21

Upholstery M&S Upholstery...................................................76

Vehicle Hire Rent Xpress........................................................... 77

Vets Acorn House........................................................ 56

CP Ceilings............................................................53 Homeworks Property Maintenance............... 71 Mr Fix Property Maintenance..........................39

Wedding Car Hire

Resin Surfaces

The Will Writing Company................................79

Bound & Bounce...................................................11

Roofing Bridge Roofing.....................................................39 Bucks Roofing......................................................52 Nu-Look Conservatory Roof Solutions..........15 P H Roofing Services.......................................... 71

Ridgemont Cars....................................................12

Will Writing Windows, Doors & Conservatories 1st Glass...................................................................21 A Rocket.................................................................53 Bedford Doors.......................................................61 Bromham Windows............................................38 Cloudy2Clear...................................................... 80 Kempston Windows........................................... 50 Langford Windows...............................................12

Window Cleaning D&J Window Cleaning......................................68 74

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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 03457 48 49 50 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 116 123 Stop Hate UK 24hr Helpline 0800 138 1625 Tax Credit Helpline 0345 300 3900 Victim Support 0845 30 30 900

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Please call for more information or to book your space: Christa Tel 01234 962929 / 07827 015170 E: christa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk Teresa Tel 01234 310521 / 07429 136815 E: teresa@bedslifemagazine.co.uk www.bedslifemagazine.co.uk

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CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIEDS BAKERIES

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Electrical Contractors

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FURNISHINGS

DECORATING SERVICES

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

Call 01234 307411 or 07973 470650

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References are available.

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Call Spencer on 07479 030063 01234 604053

ELECTRICIAN

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GARAGE DOORS

ALMOND GARAGE DOORS LTD  Bedford & Milton Keynes  New Sales & Installations  Existing Doors Automated  Spare Parts 01234 828953

info@almondgd.co.uk

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

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CLASSIFIEDS GARDENING SERVICES

HOUSE CLEARANCE

WHITE’S LAWNMOWERS & GARDEN MACHINERY

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07854 969032 LOCAL RELIABLE DISTRIBUTORS WANTED FOR BEDSLIFE MAGAZINE

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HEATING SERVICES

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77

VOLUNTEERING

Volunteering Opportunities Volunteering is rewarding, a good way to improve job prospects and DOES NOT AFFECT YOUR BENEFITS. See all of our opportunities through our online role search facility at cvsbeds.org. uk/volunteering/ where you can also register as a volunteer and apply.

TRUSTEE ROLES Trustee roles are for those with varied interests and experience who want to give their time and energy to work alongside others in taking legal overall responsibility for a charity. Help to mark this year’s Trustee Week by joining one of your local organisations as a trustee.

Putnoe Woods Pre School The Pre School provides early years care and education for children aged 6 months to 5 years old. As a trustee of this charity you will join other volunteers interested in guiding our successful group into the future. Meetings are at least 4 times per year in the evening, and you are expected to commit to a minimum of one extra day per year.

Headway Bedford Headway Bedford is a charitable, limited company, which supports and rehabilitates people with acquired brain injuries (and their carers) in the Mid and North Bedfordshire area. You will advise on operational strategy, and support the existing team of paid staff and volunteers. You will attend about 6 Board meetings a year and take on other roles, depending on your availability and experience.

Campaign to Protect Rural England – Bedfordshire Do you love Bedfordshire’s countryside? Join our friendly team as an Honorary Secretary and help to build the effectiveness of this well-respected local countryside charity. The role involves minute taking and administration, organising an AGM, providing an Annual Report. Meetings are every two months.

78

Holiday Homes Trust We have a fleet of eight caravans that are booked out to people with disabilities and special needs and low income families. A qualified accountant is required to join as director and attend meetings four times per year. The work entails approximately four to six hours per month, which will be done from home.

Bedford Creative Arts Bedford Creative Arts works with artists and other cultural practitioners to deliver cultural programmes and commissions for diverse communities. We need trustees who can bring innovative ideas and enthusiasm for our values of engage/include/inspire, as well as excellent judgement. We are currently looking for trustees with business or fundraising development skills and experience.

Biggleswade Scout Group Biggleswade Scouts need strong team players to join our Executive Committee as Secretary and as Treasurer. We’ll provide excellent training and support and guarantee that there’s enough challenge and reward to keep you interested.

The role calls for excellent IT skills and involves organising meetings, minute taking and keeping records.

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

The Will Writing Company Mayfair House 11 Lurke Street Bedford MK40 3HZ Tel: 01234 761784

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

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

OFFER ENDS 30th November 2017

FREE WILL VOUCHER

This voucher entitles you to a FREE Mirror Will (normal cost ÂŁ125) or a FREE Single Will (normal cost ÂŁ85)

Valid until 30th November 2017 The Will Writing Company

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

Tel 01234 761784

Email enquiries@thewillwritingco.co.uk

Terms and Conditions.

The voucher must be produced at your appointment.