Bedford bulletin october 2016

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OCTOBER 2016

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Policing in Beds enters hi-tech era IT IS true to say that 21st century policing has truly come to Bedfordshire, says PCC Kathryn Holloway. The latest introduction, paid for from her Community Safety and Victim Support Funds, are tags worn around the ankle to detect alcohol in perspiration and send back the information at preset intervals every day from wherever the wearer may be.

The so-called Sobriety Tags will be used to help keep previous victims of Domestic Violence safe as they will be fitted to offenders working with the Force’s Integrated Offender Management Team to try to break the cycle of crime.

“The role of alcohol and, especially binge drinking, in domestic violence is clear. These offenders promise not to drink or to reduce consumption and this space age technology from America will help our officers to know precisely when they need to intervene to keep a partner safe if they do not keep to their pledges,” said Commissioner Holloway.

Police are also able to know where offenders are who wear other ankle tags, known as Buddi Tags, which monitor their GPS position.

Earlier this year, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire were selected by the Government for another pilot to look at the benefits of GPS tagging, as well as what the impact on offenders and reoffending might be.

The use of GPS tagging should enable police to detect any breach of

licence conditions (like a curfew) more easily, to ringfence areas offenders should not visit (such as playgrounds and schools in the case of those who represent a danger to children) or even those they meet (to prevent offenders from falling back into the company which led them to commit crimes in the first place.)

In Bedfordshire, the vast majority of our officers – from traffic officers, to Special Constables, the Dogs Unit and PCSOs - are equipped with Body Worn Cameras. Body Worn Video (BWV) enables officers to collect evidence on the spot, which saves time, increases transparency and helps bring offenders to justice.

It also gives the public confidence that they will be dealt with professionally and cuts back on false accusations of unprofessional conduct by the officers themselves.

Evidence shows the use of BWV encourages early pleas from offenders, a reduction in challenges to police evidence in court and has a positive impact on domestic violence prosecutions.

“As Police and Crime Commissioner, I am committed to exploring all avenues of new technology if it can boost the way we protect our communities, whether it be through community safety grants from my office or new initiatives led by the Force, I look forward to seeing how innovative new technology will revolutionise policing in the 21st century in this county,” said Commissioner Holloway.

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BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 3

Women told she was too old for knee operation

A WOMAN with a very painful knee joint that needed surgery was told she could not have the operation because she was over 70 years old.

Following intervention by her doctor and a local councillor, this decision, for her has been reversed.

The person from Bedford, who we have agreed not to name, was suffering with a very painful knee that was causing her difficulties in walking, and to sometimes ‘give way’ in dangerous circumstances.

Her doctor, as are the rules now, sent her for an appointment with MSK England, a private healthcare company working for the local NHS and based at the Bedford north wing site. They told her what was needed was an arthroscopy but she was too old to receive one.

The woman concerned said: “I understand GPs can no longer refer their patients directly and we now have to use this expensive and convoluted service. After a series of protracted and unnecessary interactions I was eventually told the x-ray showed cartilage wear and tear but an Arthroscopy would not be done because I was over 70.

“I find this totally unacceptable.

It is usually only people over seventy who require Arthroscopy. I also understand that this elaborate and expensive ‘service’ we are compelled to use is a private/public partnership designed to ‘filter’, that is prevent, access to the NHS. “ Bedford Borough councillor, Louise Jackson said: “Any move to restrict access to such vital interven-

tions on the basis of age would be wholly wrong, and I know that hearing that at 70 she was ‘too old’ for this procedure caused this lady distress. I’m glad that this error has now been corrected, but it just heightens my concerns about the consistency of care and advice that is offered by private healthcare companies.”

A spokeswoman for Bedfordshire Clinical Commis sioning Group said:” The NHS is expected to provide health services based on clinical need, within the resources available, which means that access to some treatments and services is prioritised by meeting set criteria and clinical assessment of patients.

“Age is not a barrier, and there are many examples of patients in their 80s and 90s receiving major procedures. Other factors in a patient’s circumstances may mean that they do not meet the set criteria.

“There are definitive criteria set against policies approved at the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Clinical Forum which denote the clinical evidence required for patients to meet the set threshold.

“There may be times where there is insufficient information presented about a patient, and the GP or consultant may then need to review the case. It wouldn’t be inappropriate to comment on the details of an individual case as this would breach patient confidentiality.”

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info@bedford-wheels.co.uk www.bedford-wheels.co.uk The Bedford Bulletin is an independent magazine with no affiliation to any other organisation. Published by © 2016 Rosetta Publishing Ltd. 30 Radwell Road, Milton Ernest, Bedford MK44 1SH. Tel: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 Email all departments:pat@rosettapublishing.com. Printed by: Mortons Print Limited, Newspaper House, Morton Way, Boston Road, Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 6JR.

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Girls’ School unveils new sporting facility

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THE annual Bedford Girls’ School lacrosse match between the 1st XII and Alumnae team on 7th September – marked the opening of the state-of-the-art Cople Fields sporting facility.

Cople Fields boasts six full size lacrosse pitches, which will also be used for rounders, and a modern pavilion, offering large changing rooms and an impressive viewing gallery.

As one of the UK’s premier girls’ schools for sports, Bedford Girls’ School is looking forward to hosting regional and national lacrosse tournaments at Cople Fields.

“Cople Fields is a wonderful new addition to the School’s estate, and will help cement our reputation as a leading school for sport,” said Bedford Girls’ School Headmistress Miss MacKenzie, who witnessed a 10-4 win for the 1st XII in the company of more than 200 members of the School’s community.

“We play lacrosse at a high level nationally and it is important that we have the room to host regional competitions and tournaments. Cople is a stunning site and

there is a real sense of excitement within the Bedford Girls’ School community about the facility.”

Granted planning permission in the summer of 2014, the School enlisted the services of Northamptonshire-based S.A.C. Construction Ltd to construct the new sporting facility on the 30acre site, sitting on the outskirts of the village.

In addition to laying new pitches and building the pavilion, the two-year project has included undertaking an archaeological survey, managing the migration of Greater Crested Newts to a newly created pond, planting a commu-

nity orchard and installing swift boxes. The site will also be used as an outdoor learning space, providing pupils with an alternative environment to study in.

Miss MacKenzie added: “Cople Fields is much more than just lacrosse pitches, in the summer it will provide us with a wonderful venue for holding rounders tournaments, and all year round the girls and teachers will be able to make full use of the area.

“We are very thankful to Cople village for their support and we look forward to inviting the village school to use the resources at Cople Fields.”

Cartridge Depot makes it through to the final

Cartridge Depot is delighted and proud to announce that they have been successful in reaching the finals of the East of England Business Champions 2016 Small Business Awards! They are finalists in the Bedfordshire Business Champions category!

Cartridge Depot specialise in printer consumables including compatible, remanufactured and original ink and toner printer cartridges supplying to both business and domestic customers alike.

Alongside this they also stock various paper types and printers. Above all they pride themselves in offering a second to none service locally within the industry. Cartridge Depot began trading in March 2012 from a shop in Bedford’s Town Centre and have since increasingly offered their unique products range and upmost services to the public, schools, charities and businesses in the local and surrounding areas of Bedford. Reaching the finals of the awards reflects the hard work they, their customers and the local community have put into helping a local independently run business grow and run successfully. The Cartridge Depot team look forward

to attending this year’s East of England Business Champions 2016 Small Business Awards lunch which takes place on Tuesday the 25th October. They hope to add another award to their collection.

Business Partner Guy says: “Reaching the finals of the awards is such an amazing achievement for us because we have been picked as finalists from a large number of businesses thought Bedfordshire. We would really like to thank everyone that has helped support us since we commenced trading in 2012. It is really nice to

get some recognition for all the hard work and time running a business takes.”

Business Partner Vincenza says: “We are so grateful to all our customers and the local community that have helped us grow and who support local business like us.

We really look forward to the awards ceremony and hope to be able to add another award to our collection. We would like to again thank all that have helped us reach this stage as it is a great achievement for us since trading just over four years ago!”

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Hot favourite

Amid fierce competition from some of the best curry houses in the UK, the Bengal Brasserie of Bedford is celebrating its fifth anniversary.

The family business run by Shish Miah has a policy of providing the best spiced cuisine combining delicate dishes with familiar hot favourites. Bedford and Kempston MP Richard Fuller joined a celebration evening at The Broadway on September 8th and congratulated Shish and his team. Said Shish: “This restaurant is a family business and we welcome all of our regular customers and supporters as part of our family.”

BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 5

Bedford financial adviser achieves chartered status

THE Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) has awarded the prestigious ‘Chartered Financial Planner’ title to David Hill of David Hill Wealth Management, one of Bedford’s leading providers of financial advice.

Chartered status is an exclusive title only awarded to individuals that meet rigorous criteria relating to professionalism and capability. All Chartered Financial Planners commit to the CII’s Code of Ethics, reinforcing the highest standards of professional practice in their business dealings.

David Hill focuses solely on providing face-to-face advice and offers a dedicated, personal wealth management service to build long-term, trusted relationships. He offers specialist advice in a wide range of areas, including Investment Planning, Retirement Planning and Inheritance Tax Planning. As an Associate Member of SOLLA, the Society of Later Life Advisers, David Hill is also qualified to advise in the more complex area of Care Fees Planning.

David Hill says that securing Chartered Financial Planner status is a landmark for him personally: “I have always prided myself on being

thoroughly professional in everything I do and to receive external recognition in this way is very gratifying. As a Chartered Financial Planner, I can signal my commitment to the highest levels of service to my clients.”

To date, just over 5,000 individuals have achieved Chartered status, indicating that this is a highly exclusive award reserved for the leading individuals within the financial advice market.

For further information, contact David Hill on: 01234 480540.

6 — BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

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Free App for all the family to enjoy

FOLLOWING the success of the Bedford Chronicles Town Trail this summer, authors Karen Fryc and Alasdair Bright were contacted by Andrew Marshall of Digitwell Solutions Ltd, a Bedford based mobile application development company, who suggested that they team up to create a brand new app for Bedford.

The app is free to download and use and is based on the story that Beda, The Bedford Chronicles main character, has lost his gold coins and users need to help him find them.

The 'gold coins' are hidden at locations across Bedford and users need to work out the location, visit to scan the hidden QR codes then collect their virtual coins. Not only that, as the coins are collected a new screen will open and users will discover more about the location. There may be some fun, Did you know's?, perhaps they can listen as a statue comes to life or maybe even try to solve a puzzle.

Karen said: “We are so excited to be able to launch this app, which we think is a first for Bedford. Alasdair and I are always looking for new ways to bring the stories of Bedford to life and what better way to bring the past bang up

to date.”

The app runs throughout October and there could be a real treasure to collect for those who find all the gold coins before Sunday 30th October.

Available to download free from Google Play and the Apple App Store from the start of October. The app works on both the Andriod

and Apple platforms.

The Bedford Chronicles book launched in March this year and aims to tell the story of Bedford in a new and exciting way.

More information on how to download the app is available on the website at http://www.bedfordchronicles.co.uk/towntrail.html

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BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 7

LOVING WHERE YOU LIVE

I and A Restaurants Ltd owner Ismail Anilmis motivated teams from his ten McDonald’s restaurants to join their local communities in improving their neighbourhoods.

In Royston they installed a new bin and litter sign at a heath near the McDonald’s.

In Stotfold they planted 16 trees together with a local scout group (above). In Leighton Buzzard they supported a fund-

raising event held as part of a 30th anniversary of the Leighton United Football Club of which Ismail is Honorary President.

In Toddington they repainted bollards on the green. In Bedford town centre they helped the Salvation Army by presenting an art cabinet during a fun day. In Russell Park, Bedford, the team from the Aspects

restaurants repainted railings.

At Benson in Oxfordshire they painted the village hall. At Didcot staff helped to refurbish furniture in the garden of an old people’s home.

At Witney McDonald’s staff painted a mural on Duckington Lane underpass.

The final event was at Leamington Spa where the team cleared land for a community garden.

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Visitors impressed by size of Bunyan’s basement area

“I HONESTLy never realised that there was all this wonderful space below Bunyan Meeting”; “We couldn’t believe the light and the size of the Basement at Bunyan!”

These were just two of the comments made by visitors during the recent Heritage Open Days, as they discovered the newly refurbished Basement at Bunyan Meeting in September.

The official opening took place on Saturday 1 October, when Songs of Praise presenter Pam Rhodes, ‘cut the ribbon’ to

launch The Basement at Bunyan as the latest arts addition to the growing Castle Quarter of Bedford.

Activities began straight away – with free ‘drop-in’ sessions – paper making and ink, exploring bookbinding, creating colourful bookmarks, and designing manuscript lettering. The John Bunyan Museum will also be offering a stained-glass window workshop – all part of the Fun Palaces ‘Arts and Science’ Day. In the Autumn Half Term The Basement at Bunyan and the John Bunyan Museum offer a variety of workshops for children and adults.

These include making Christmas Wraps & Envelopes; Illustrated Typography and Lettering with Brush and Ink; Finding out about Superstition, Folklore and Food; and Fun Books for Christmas.

There is something for everyone from six years to adult between Saturday 22 and Thursday 27 October. Spaces are limited, so see The Bunyan Meeting website: www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk; or contact 01234 213722 or 01234 270303 for more details.

To visit The Basement at Bunyan, either come in through the John Bunyan Museum entrance (opposite St Cuthbert’s Church) or directly from Castle Lane. you can email the Arts Project Development Worker, David Walker, on davidwkr5@ aol.com ––––––––––––––––––

AMPTHILL ROAD TRAFFIC MISERY

TO THE EDITOR – I have mentioned this before but a solution to the mess in this area is to re- open the adjacent old Cowbridge Station on the Bedford – Bletchley line.

This will help to ease congestion in that area by providing a good link between Bedford, the retail park and Bletchley.

There is a similar and very busy station on the Wimbledon tramway near Croydon which serves a busy retail park and the track has now been doubled.

David Menzies, Kempston

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BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 9

Revamp on the cards?

THE Harpur Centre is under new ownership following its acquisition last month.

The new owners,who are yet to be named. will be making a significant long term investment in the Centre’s future, are currently considering the improvements that can be made in order to maximise the site’s potential.

Early ideas include improving the customer experience, not just through a reworking of the internal layout and modernisation of the entrances and seeking occupiers for the vacant units.

One of the first initiatives will be to bring Wi-Fi throughout the Harpur Centre which should be available very shortly.

James Burchell, on behalf of Tellon Capital, Asset Managers for the new owners said: “We are really pleased to be involved in the overarching vision for this area of Bedford.”

Samantha Laycock, Harpur Centre Manager, said:“This is a great opportunity for the Harpur Centre to modernise and I am looking forward to working together with the new owners over the coming years.”

Bedford Life A photographic exhibition at The Quarry Theatre, Bedford, showcased the talent of local photographers from Bedford Camera Club.

Over 100 images captured Bedford life under themes of ‘Portraits of Bedford People’ and ‘Unusual Bedford’. The exhibition space in the foyer of the Quarry Theatre was the perfect setting for

this stunning exhibition. Bedford Camera Club were delighted to be invited to stage this exhibition at The Quarry Theatre, celebrating the people and places of Bedford. Founded in 1906, Bedford Camera Club is a hub for amateur photographers who meet weekly, taking part in competitions, workshops, lectures and sharing photography expertise.

10 — BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

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Emma’s Pavilion in Good Food Guide

A CAFé in Bedford has been included in the esteemed Good Food Guide 2017 alongside Michelin star and fine dining Bedfordshire restaurants.

The aptly named Pavilion at The Park, based in the Victorian Pavilion building in Bedford Park, is included in the Guide as a ‘Readers Recommend’ for the Bedfordshire area, firmly placing the café on the map as a high quality dining destination in the county.

The Good Food Guide, sponsored by Waitrose, is a compilation of the UK’s Best Restaurants based on feedback from readers and anonymous inspections.

The publication of the annual guide is an eagerly anticipated event in the hospitality industry.

For Emma Garrett, founder and owner of the Pavilion at the Park and Kiosk at the Park in Russell Park, being named in the Good Food Guide sees a lifelong ambition achieved.

Emma said: “I am completely overwhelmed and delighted that the Pavilion is featured in the Good Food Guide. For years I have used the guide as a bible as to where to eat and now my café is included in it, I just can’t believe it.

“I always wanted the Pavilion to be more than just a café; for me it’s been about bringing the community together and it’s fantastic to see this recognised by the Good Food Guide.

“The original aim of the regeneration of the Pavilion was to bring more people to Bedford Park, and this is why I believe we were successful over a shortlist of five in winning the tender to transform the Pavilion into a café. Of course excellent food and

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20 mile walk for hospice

ON 8th October a team of staff at Robinson & Hall are donning their walking boots and kit to walk 20 miles taking in our heartland from Great Brickhill in Aylesbury Vale, through Milton Keynes via the base of our nominated charity Willen Hospice, across Central Bedfordshire ending at the Cross Keys pub at Wood End.

drink is at the heart of what we do here at the Pavilion but we’re about so much more.

“We have a fantastic team behind the Pavilion and our talented chef Marcus Webber creates the most delicious dishes which keep our customers returning time and time again. We only use high quality ingredients, support local food producers as much as we can, and our children’s meals are all made by us from scratch.

The Good Food Guide 2017 says this about the Pavilion: “Bedford Park has come alive! What was a sad, unloved pavilion building is now a thriving community hub serving delicious home-cooked meals using ingredients sourced locally and combined imaginatively”.

Willen Hospice in Milton Keynes, which sits in the very heart of the area covered by our Bedford office, is our charity of choice as many of our team have seen friends, colleagues or family members cruelly struck with terminal illness. Many have benefited hugely from the end of life palliative care provided by amazing facilities, such as Willen Hospice.

Their Virgin Money Giving page can be found at: http://uk.virgin moneygiving.com/fundraiser-web/ fundraiser/show Fundraiser Page.action?userUrl=Robinsonandh all&pageUrl=2 If you would like to join them meet at Willen Hospice at 1pm on 8th October, please contact Alex Munro on 01234 362891 or email ajm2@robinsonandhall.co.uk

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Bags scheme transforms Ettrick Drive Park Children Awards were magical!

funding to provide facilities for the residents of Goldington. ‘’ Caroline Silke, Head of Community at Tesco, said: “It is wonderful to see how the money from our Bags of Help initiative has been spent. “This is money that has come directly from Tesco customers living and shopping in each of our regions up and down the country.

“Applications for the next round of the initiative will open from 18 April to 3 June and we look forward to DISNEy came to the Borough on helping a further round of groups and projects bag their Friday 9 September to celebrate the share of the bag charge fund.”

‘Magical Moments’ of our Looked After Children at their Annual Achievement Awards. The event took place at the University of Bedfordshire and provided an opportunity to celebrate the talents, achievements and successes of the children and young people who are supported and cared for by Bedford Borough Council.

With a theme of ‘Children in Care Council (CiCC) you Tube presents; Magical Moments’, over 200 guests dressed to impress. The event consisted of an activity zone with a roaming magician, Disney characters, glitter tattoos, balloon modelling and an interactive photobooth. This was followed by two award ceremonies (up to 11 years and one for 12 years +) for the 205 nominations that were received for young people by their social workers, teachers and foster carers.

This year there were nine categories with one ‘winner’ coming from each age range: • Arts and Music award presented by local dance company 2-Step.

• Bravery award presented by local you Tube Vlogger Ben Zanna.

• Compassion award presented by you Tube sensations Jake Mitchel and Saffron Barker.

• Education, Employment and Training award presented by Cllr Henry Vann.

• Life Skills awards presented by The Mayor, Dave Hodgson.

• Personal Development award o ■ Windows n a r fo presented by Chief Executive, ■ uPVC Doors, Composite oday chat t Philip Simpkins. l l a Doors C on i t • Resilience award presented by a g i obl ■ French Doors, Patio Doors, Colin Foster, Chief Education Officer.

Bifold Doors • Sports award presented by Lance ■ Conservatories Haggith, from Sports Trader.

■ Deposit Indemnity • Transition award presented by Kevin Crompton, Director of ■ 10 year insurance-backed Children’s and Adults’ services.

Guarantee There were also two Outstanding ■ Certass Registration Achievement winners per age category with their award being present– Building Regulations ed by Cllr Shan Hunt.

OFFICE AND FACTORY: Cllr Shan Hunt, Portfolio Holder for Children’s Social Care at Bedford Red Gate Farm, Mill Road, Thurleigh, Bedford MK44 2DP Borough Council said: “Many chilt: 01234 771100 dren in care have had a tough life e: info@gandlwindows.co.uk www.gandlwindows.co.uk through no fault of their own and to witness their determination to achieve against all odds, it is not only moving, but inspiring.”

COUNCILLORS Jade Uko and Anthony Forth unveiled their completed outdoor gym project at Ettrick Drive in Goldington in September. The new equipment was funded by their successful bid for an £8,000 grant from Tesco’s Bags of Help campaign.

The supermarket teamed up with Groundwork to launch its Bags of Help initiative, which saw grants of £12,000, £10,000 and £8,000, all raised from the 5p bag levy – being awarded to environmental and greenspace projects. Eight million shoppers voted in stores up and down the country.

The Ettrick Drive project to install new outdoor gym equipment beat thousands of other bidders for cash in a nation-wide grant scheme. The Goldington councillors held a consultation event at the park on 12th March during which over 50 residents had their say over proposed equipment pieces. The councillors also contributed some of their Ward Funds to the project.

Cllr. Jade Uko said: ‘‘I was so pleased people voted for our project. It’s enabled us to revitalize an area which had been run down for a number of years. To be able to deliver this scheme at a time of severe budget cuts shows that we are committed to finding alternative sources of

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New VIP visitor experience

BBC Radio 3 Counties star Justin Dealey popped into the Bedford Swan Hotel to talk about tourism. Pictured Justin with one of the Bedford Swan visitor hospitality team.

VISITORS coming from overseas to Bedford, head for the historic Swan Hotel. Dating back to the 1700s the hotel is a dream location for Americans and more who are taking advantage of the well priced pound.

“We bring in millions of pounds worth of business to Bedford town centre every year through overnight stay guests and functions,” explained Swan Sales and Marketing Manager Natasha Trudgill, “But we want local folk to understand that the Bedford Swan is open to them too - to enjoy drinks in the bar, or coffee and cakes and afternoon teas in our comfortable main seating area, The Terrace on sunny days and evenings, and our luxury spa. So we have decided to team up with Love Bedford to offer a VIP Visitor experience.”

Visitors to the Bedford Swan Hotel will already find glossy local magazines on display to read or take away, they can buy Love Bedford gift vouchers for use in 270 other businesses in the town. Now they can also buy copies of the Love Bedfordsponsored 2017 calendar which has superb photographs of the riverside a great Christmas present* “We will also be making available copies of the Love Bedford mini

maps for the town centre, editions of Love Bedford magazines such as the Eating and Drinking guide and more.

“We have a close relationship with the tourism success that is John Bunyan Boat and during the summer people can book tea or champagne trips - they are very popular.”

Now the hotel is offering a new menu in the Riverside Room restaurant, popular for Sunday lunches all year round, this location is a great place to enjoy a more special lunch.

“We will be running a draw throughout October in reception here for people to win a lunch for four in the restaurant with a bottle of wine.

“We want to people to Love Bedford as much as our overseas visitors do and to make the most of our VIP experience here at the Bedford Swan Hotel.”

Christina Rowe, Director of BedfordBID which represents 100s of town centre businesses said: “The influence of this hotel on people’s perception of Bedford town centre should not be underestimated. They have been long standing supporters of the BID, they helped get the John Bunyan Boat really underway and their riverside terrace has a big appeal for people. We think a VIP Visitor experience about sums up the Swan.”

BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 13

14 — BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

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Changes to waste collections

BEDFORD Borough Council’s Executive has voted to accept changes to the frequency of black bin collections.

The changes come following a seven week consultation in which a leaflet was sent to all households; the Council received 1,928 responses from residents.

Subject to a seven day call in period, the decision means that commencing on Monday 31 October 2016 the collection system will operate on an alternate weekly basis – one week black bin collection and the

following week orange and green lidded bin collections.

In addition, changes to the garden waste collection service will be commencing in December 2016.

These changes mean there will be no garden waste collections from beginning of December to the end February each year; and as well as this, the option to use green sacks will be removed.

However, residents currently using green sacks will be able to request a green bin for the disposal of their garden waste.

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BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 15

Festival of Flight celebrates 70 years

Cranfield University celebrated its 70th anniversary in September with a Festival of Flight hosted at the University’s Bedfordshire campus.

Members of staff and their families, alumni and the local community all visited the campus to see behind the scenes at the specialist postgraduate institution during an Open Doors morning. This showcased the latest areas of research at the University and gave children the opportunity to see scientific demonstrations in action. In the afternoon, over 5,000 people watched an air display, with many of the aircraft on a static display having special links to the University’s heritage.

His Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent, Cranfield’s Visitor, appointed by Her Majesty The Queen, also arrived to see some of the attractions. The Duke met the air cadets assisting the staff with the event and spoke to owners at the vehicle exhibition before visiting the static aircraft display.

Cranfield’s Chief Executive and ViceChancellor, Professor Sir Peter Gregson, said: “Celebrating our anniversary year with a Festival of Flight was a wonderful way to reflect on our 70-year heritage. We showcased some of the ground-breaking research that will play a significant role in the future of aerospace and used the occasion to demonstrate other areas of research for which we are recognised internationally.”

Professor Iain Gray, Director of Aerospace

at Cranfield University, commented: “Cranfield is a unique university with our own airport on campus. Air displays at Cranfield used to be a regular occurrence in the past, so we were delighted to open our doors and host another one. Looking forward, we want to be recognised as the number one aerospace university in Europe.”

Cranfield has links with around 1,500 companies and organisations across the world and the event was supported by companies

including Anglian Water, British Airways, Monarch, Nissan Technical Centre and Unilever.

The busy weekend concluded on Sunday with families ‘riding the runway’ raising money for Flying Start, British Airways’ and Comic Relief’s global charity partnership.

A group of around 40 cyclists then rode to Cranfield’s other campus at Shrivenham in the Wiltshire/Oxfordshire border, which just happens to be 70 miles away.

16 — BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

Royal Marine training trial FLETCHERS hair stylist Mathew Buckingham has completed a gruelling 30 mile yomp in aid of the ‘Commando Spirit’ charity.

In his day job in Tavistock Street, Bedford, Mathew is busy colouring, cutting and blow-drying clients but he has spent his spare time this year getting in shape for the challenge, which required him to carry a three stone rucksack over rough terrain.

“I wanted to improve my fitness and thought I would combine it with a good cause and I then found www.everyday hero.com with this event on September 10th,” said Mathew who is Artistic Stylist at the long-established salon in Tavistock Street, “Of the 100 or so who signed up at the beginning of the year less than 20 actually completed any appropriate training and took part on the day. It was the hardest thing I have ever done in my life.”

Anyone wishing to add to Mathew’s total so far of £2,650 should go to www.everydayhero.com and click on Find a Friend.

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

email: pat@rosettapublishing.com

Dancers take top prizes at world championships

DANCERS from Bedfordshire’s premier dance school, Dancevybz, beat teams from across the globe to take top podium positions in team and individual categories at the 2016 UDO World Street Dance Championships at the SECC in Glasgow at the weekend.

Four teams from the school achieved top ten positions: over 18 quad Wolva claimed fourth place in their age category and U14 team Outlawed secured fifth place, while U14 team Lilvybz and U18 team Frenzy ranked eighth and tenth respectively.

In the individual categories, the school’s youngest dancer, George Gibson, just five years old, came fifth in the U6 solos competition, while Ruby Seymour, seven, came fourth in the U8 solos category. Bella Gibson and Tom Skoines, both just seven years old, came fifth in the U8 duos competition, and took fifth and sixth place respectively in the U8 solos final. Callum Duggan, eight, came fifth in the U10 solos competition and Jack Skoines, 13, came fifth in the U14 solos category.

Dancevybz founder Stephanie Massey said: “Our achievements at the World Championships this weekend are strongest results we’ve had at international level since we started the school 10 years ago. I’m incredibly proud of all the dancers that attended the

competition, and the way in which they represented the county and our country, but also of the commitment, hard work and passion of our teachers, without whom none of this would be possible.”

Dancevybz teams have performed all over the world. Our adult team Execute have previously ranked third in the world, and our boys crew Kazzum has won the UK Hip Hop Championships, competed in Las Vegas, and reached the live finals of Sky One’s ‘Got to Dance’ in 2012.

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Paralympic legacy

FOLLOWING the inspirational performances of GB paralympians at Rio, local folk have a chance to test themselves in wheelchairs.

Businesses, clubs and organisations are sought to sign up for the Rotary Wheelchair Challenge at Bedford Athletic Stadium in Barker’s Lane on Sunday October 9th.

In 2012 Howard Darbon, President of Sport Bedford and friends helped to host paralympians at the pre Games camp at the Polhill campus of the University of Bedfordshire The Bedford wheelchair event was launched after the London Olympics to keep the legacy of paralympic sports alive in the UK. Since then it has attracted support from Baldock, Biggleswade and Bedford organisations and money raised has helped train a range of sports coaches for disabled people.

This year the organisers would like to see schools, sports groups, joggers and others who enjoy fitness to get together to take part. Any sponsorship would be gratefully received.

Contact Mary Whitehead m.e.whitehead@ btinternet.com www.rotary-site.org/wheelchairchallenge

Brass Band needs a new home BEDFORD Brass is looking for halls and has done for many new band room to rehearse years. However the storage each week with storage space space is limited with no room for percussion instruments to store the music library. We including timpani, brass are searching for a new instruments (tubas, euphonivenue, big enough to accomums,cornets) and an extenmodate 24 players with sive music library. additional storage.

The band rehearses twice a week “It would be music to our ears if in the evenings – the AJ Band a Bedford based community on a Tuesday and Bedford group or local business can Brass on a Thursday. help us with a new band Band Committee member Jenny room.”

Gellatly said: “The band If you can help us please contact presently rehearses in Mr I William, E: bedford Kempston West/East Church brassuk@gmail.com

BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 17

18 — BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

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Be four times more likely to quit this Stoptober!

STOPTOBER is fast-approaching! And the Bedfordshire Stop Smoking Service is inviting smokers to quit with their support for the best shot at kicking the habit this October.

Returning for its fifth year, Stoptober is the mass quit campaign from Public Health England, which has helped thousands of smokers to stop smoking by encouraging them to give up for the month of October – and for the months and years that follow.

Evidence shows that residents who use the Bedfordshire Stop Smoking Service are four times more likely to quit smoking, so do get in touch with us this Stoptober for free support.

Cllr Louise Jackson, Portfolio Holder for Public Health at Bedford Borough Council, said: “By inviting people to give up smoking in the month of October, we hope they might feel able to extend giving up for even longer periods and, eventually, the smoking habit may totally lack appeal.

We will support smokers every step of the way, from referral through to success.”

Cllr Maurice Jones, Executive Member for Health at Central Bedfordshire Council, said: “The Stoptober campaign returns year after year because it works so well - when someone makes it to 28 days smoke free, they are five times more likely to quit for good.

This, combined with the free, friendly support of our Stop Smoking Service, gives smokers a great shot at stop smoking success and making a positive change to benefit their health.”

For support with your Stoptober challenge, it’s quick and easy to refer yourself, or friends

and family, into the Bedfordshire Stop Smoking Service. Simply call 0800 013 0553 to book an appointment to see a specialist advisor at a time and place convenient to you.

During your first appointment, you can spend up to 30 minutes with your advisor on a one-to-one basis. They will discuss your smoking habits and routines with you in order to tailor a stop-smoking plan specific to your needs.

The advisor will also provide you with the right tools and techniques to help you quit, including nicotine replacement therapy and/or Champix (prescription charges may apply unless exempt). you will be able to have up to 12 weeks of support.

Last year, over 215,000 people across England and Wales signed up to take part in Stoptober.

For free, friendly advice on stopping smoking and to order a free ‘Quit Kit’, call 0800 013 0553. Alternatively, visit www.smokefreebedfordshire.co.uk

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 19

Bags of fun aboard Bunyan boat!

Photos shows Graham Mabbutt, Christina and BedfordBID employed Bluecap, who acts as a welcoming team for visitors to the town centre with the John Bunyan Boat at Sovereign’s Quay.

THE John Bunyan Boat has brought a wave of tourists to Bedford since being launched in Jult 2013 Since then more than 18,000 have enjoyed day trips, private parties. wedding receptions and afternoon teas on board.

BedfordBID, which represents more than 500 levy paying businesses in the town centre, helped to launch the boat with an initial donation and since then has helped with boarding signage at Sovereign’s Quay.

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In addition BedfordBID has again given some of its Love Bedford shopping and goodie bags to those travelling on the boat to remind them to come back to town again, and again.

Graham Mabbutt, Commercial Director of the John Bunyan Community Boat Team said: “BedfordBID has generously helped the John Bunyan Boat with finances and with fabulous publicity. It also encouraged its Portas pot associates to support us with £2,000 as part of a link up with the High Street.

“We are delighted to be able to repay businesses in Bedford by bringing in new customers to the town centre.”

Christina Rowe, Director of BedfordBID said: “The John Bunyan Boat has kept a tide of visitors coming into town.”

–––––––––––––––––––

COCK FUND RAISERS

The Cock Inn pub at Wootton held a couple of charity events recently.

Their annual Summer Fun Day raised £1480 for Macmillan Cancer and then in August they raised £471 at their annual Dog Show for Albery Dog Rescue.

20 — BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

email: pat@rosettapublishing.com

Top of the class for GCSEs at new school

BEDFORD Free School has delivered the best GCSEs in the town centre with only its second cohort of students.

The success rates moved upwards for all students with the final results showing Bedford Free

School to be second only to Sharnbrook Upper in the Borough.

When the school opened in September 2012 it took students in year groups 7 and 9 (aged 11 and 13 ) to allow a switch over at middle-upper school age. That move proved a great decision for families as shown by the GCSE results last year. This year they are even better.

“We opened as a secondary before the two-tier system was adopted locally as we knew it would allow us to do so much more with students from the age of 11.

We expect to be able to show that with even better results next year.

Students thrive in our ‘grammar school for all’ environment where firm discipline is combined with an aspiration to allow students to become best they can be,” said Principal Mark Lehain, “Our Governors and parents set us the task of setting up a school which provided a state education which was free to raise up to their expectations. It is the families of our students we answer to and they

demonstrate their support by choosing to send their children to us.

“Students leaving here with good GCSE results and great work

ethic then have a choice of study post 16. We look forward to monitoring their progress on to their first choice universities or quality careers.”

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BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 21

What to look for when selecting a school?

OCTOBER and November are busy months for parents as schools welcome potential new families to open mornings. But what should you be looking for in a school?

All parents want their children to be successful and happy, to ensure they develop into confident young adults. It is important to think about the future; is the school going to help nurture the right skills and learning attributes to help your children navigate the wider world?

The world is changing rapidly and education needs to keep evolving to provide relevant and engaging opportunities to ensure children are future-smart.

At Bedford Girls’ School we believe in staying at the forefront of educational changes. Underpinned by the ethos of the International Baccalaureate, our educational philosophy is firmly focused on the future.

We incorporate technology into our learning and classrooms. Our educational model is deeply rooted in developing a wide set of learner attributes, which we believe are key to future success and which encourage a growth mindset and an open minded approach to learning.

From the age of seven (Year 3) to the Upper Sixth, our classrooms fizz with creativity, as the girls are inspired to learn through modern teaching practises. Our Enhanced Curriculum in the Junior School lays the foundation, embedding independent led learning skills. These skills enable the girls to transition to the Senior School in Year 7 with ease, and to tackle the challenges of GCSEs, the International Baccalaureate Diploma and A Levels with confidence.

With equal focus on the academic and co-curricular programmes, girls achieve outstanding examination results, stunning sports and arts successes, but most importantly they develop into mature young women with strong global outlooks.

We believe this is a recipe for an outstanding school.

Please come and see our vibrant community by attending our upcoming open mornings on Saturday 8th October and Friday 18th November at 10am. Reserve a place at www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk or call Admissions on 01234 361918.

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22 — BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

Heart facility opens

MY Heart My Health , a state-ofthe-art Heart Cardiac Screening and Evaluation Facility opened recently at the Priory Medical Centre, The Glebe in Clapham.

Operated by The Harley Street Cardiology Practice, the event was inaugurated by My Alistair Burt,

MP for North Bedfordshire. Dr Bokhari, a consultant cardiologist and the director of the Harley Street Cardiology Practice, didn’t miss the opportunity to offer Mr Burt an echocardiogram. www.myheartmyhealth.uk or call 07931503740

Ask Pat about our next education feature, call 07724 905406

email: pat@rosettapublishing.com

Success at Mark Rutherford!

SIXTH Form students have celebrated another successful year in both A Level and BTEC courses with another increase in students achieving the top grades and 28 subjects achieving a 100% pass rate.

Mark Rutherford continues to be proud of its students with all progressing to employment, apprenticeships or university, including Oxbridge.

This year we have a number of students who have achieved particularly high grades, including: Zara Coull A* A* A’; Aman Kundra A A A; Holly Bogacki A* A A; Molly Simpson A* A A; Daniel Hare A*A*A A; Rebecca Smith A A A; Kelly Knights A* A* A*; Katie White A* A A

The following students achieved three or more A* and A grade equivalents in their BTEC courses: Nico Paolini, Joseph Kvilums, Ross Slapp, Abigail Collins, Nathan Taylor, Lois Cox, Robbie Taylor, Lucinda Fensom, Francesca Mirto, Tadiwa Gapara, Sofie-Rose White, Shuheda Jannat, Max Dickson, Bethany Marsom, Olivia Foord, Simran Panesar, Wesley Henry, Abigail Wildman, Jessica Cain, Melissa Cain, Thomas Mead Headteacher Richard Millard said: “We are delighted with another improvement in our A level and BTEC results. Congratulations to all the students and staff for all their hard work.”

Best ever results (again!)

FOLLOWING the success of the 'A' level students, Biddenham’s GCSE/year 11 students are now celebrating great results.

Amongst the top achievers were: Jemima Ajayi 11 A* - A (7A*, 4A); Charlotte Denny 11 A* - A (7A*, 4A); Ehsan Hanif 11 A* - B (5A*, 5A, 1B); Farhan Gohar 11 A* - B (2A*, 8A, 1B); Emmanuel Alabi 11 A* - B (8A*, 1A, 2B); Shakare Ali 10 A* - B (6A*, 3A, 2B); Manar Kadri 10 A* - B (5A*, 2A, 3B) The following students all achieved 9+ A* - B: Thanbir Ahmed, Charlotte Almond,

Jusnara Begum, Ayesha Khan, Alan Macdonald, Matthew Page, Tasnim Rahman, Rumaana Raja, Beau Rodd, Zakira Sultana.

Headteacher David Bailey said: “We are very pleased for our year 11 students, who have worked really hard; they are a delightful bunch and have produced some great results.

“We are pleased to report a 10% increase on our results last year and we are now well above the National Average for progress for all schools nationally. Congratulations to all our students and staff on their success this year.”

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BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 23

24 — BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

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In Focus with

In Focus with

Fuller

Alistair

Richard Fuller MP for Bedford & Kempston

CYCLISTS – CIVILITY NOT CONVENIENCE

RECENTLy we have looked at ways to improve the safety and road experience of cyclists. Cycling groups have rightly raised concerns about deaths and injuries caused by poor and inconsiderate driving and lobbied for investment in cycling lanes.

Walking around town, though, I am forced to question whether we have got the balance right – or indeed still know what the rules for cyclists are.

I took a look at the Highway Code to remind me of some of the rules. Wearing a helmet (Rule 59) and having white front and red rear lights at night (Rule 60) are well known, but any walk through town in the evening will provide numerous examples where these rules are flouted.

Rules 61 to 63 refer to cycle tracks or cycle lanes of which we now have many in town – but there is no requirement for cyclists to use them. Why not? If taxpayers’ money is spent to create them, should cyclists be required to use them – not opt to use the main pathway or road?

Which brings us to Rule 64 “you MUST NOT cycle on a pavement” - emphasis provided by the Highway Code.

Every day, however, people routinely cycle on the pavements sometimes at great speed causing potential risk to pedestrians.

Constituents have told me of the abrupt, rude or threatening response from cyclists if they challenge them to ride on the road.

Few people would object to cyclists using the pavements at busy junctions or when traffic is dangerous – but is cycling on pavements the new rule?

Enforcement of the rules is nigh impossible currently – though there may be phone apps in the future that can help – so we rely on people knowing, and following, the rules.

Civility not convenience should be the primary concern.

Cycling UK, the national lobby group for cyclists should consider balancing its role defending cyclists’ rights by campaigning for the rights of pedestrians as well.

by Rt Hon Alistair Burt MP

JOY OF SPORT BEYOND THE GILDED ELITES

AS WE recover from the triumphs of the Olympics and Paralympics, and as a new football season announces itself via a Premier League transfer shopping spree of over a £1 billion for the first time ever, it’s time to recognise and support club based sport at a different level.

I have been a keen soccer supporter since childhood, with an allegiance to my home town team of Bury, which has spent all its existence in my lifetime in the lower leagues of professional football. I had little contact with non-league football until I came to Bedfordshire, beyond, I believe being the only then serving MP with an actual playing registration for a non-league club, my school old boys.

But Bedfordshire is full of clubs playing at differing levels of a national league pyramid, the top of which is now the Vanarama National League, and comprising an astonishing 84 league competitions and 1,600 clubs. It has become practice to take advantage of a day when Premier clubs are not playing because of the international calendar to encourage fans of the bigger clubs to attend another game on what has become a designated ‘nonleague day’.

So, this September 3rd, I followed Biggleswade United to Hitchin Town for an FA Cup first qualifying round tie. It was a very decent game, with the result always in doubt until the last minute, but eventually going 4-2 against Biggleswade. Some 700 people attended, more than double a usual attendance.

Biggleswade Town have gone through to the next round, so there is still local interest on the road to Wembley.

Our towns and villages are given an identity by our sports clubs, as the names that appear in the papers with the results usually produce a feeling of belonging, which is important to all of us.

Non-league football only exists because of a passion for the sport, and a sense of community often tested very hard by the efforts to keep clubs going on pittances. They deserve our support.

If you get the chance, do pop down. We would miss them if they were not here.

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BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 25

26 — BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

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View from

In Focus with

Bishop Richard

Dave

by Rt Revd Richard Atkinson Bishop of Bedford

ALL GOOD GIFTS AROUND US

REVD Robert Hawker, the nineteenth century Vicar of Morwenstow in North Cornwall, was an eccentric Parson. He dressed in bright and mismatched clothing; spent many hours sitting in a small wooden hut overlooking the sea writing verse; and once excommunicated his cat for mousing on a Sunday.

Robert Hawker is however also remembered because he introduced the Harvest Festival service when in 1843 he held a service in Morwenstow church to give thanks for the bounty of the harvest. Celebrated on October 1st the bread at the Communion Service was made from the first cut of the corn.

This harvest celebration struck a chord and harvest services continue to this day; occasions for farming communities in particular, but also for all of us, to give thanks for the fruit of the earth, for its harvest and those who bring it in.

Having said that, the theme of thanksgiving for harvest is an ancient one. Farming communities also had their local ways of celebrating the successful bringing in of the crops.

What Revd Hawker did was to make it a much loved part of the church’s year.

There is still something very special about a harvest service in a church decorated with vegetables, fruit and flowers; with a harvest bread baked in the shape of a corn sheaf; and with a congregation that includes local farmers.

For even in a world of highly mechanised and technological farming, where so many of the issues are global, there is a vital place for quiet thanksgiving and a recognition of the bounty of God’s earth. Harvest Festival is a time for us all to say thank you.

All good gifts around us Are sent from heaven above; Then thank the Lord, O thank the Lord, For all his love.

by Dave Hodgson Mayor of Bedford

SIGN UP AND STAY CONNECTED

BEDFORD Borough Council is facing a full-blown funding crisis, caused by relentless, unprecedented government cuts for local services. Those funding cuts coincide with a sharply rising need for services, particularly social care for the elderly and the vulnerable.

While I am leader of Bedford Borough Council, we will never turn our backs on the vulnerable and those most in need of support. With a funding gap by 2019 of £27.5 million, further action is therefore needed elsewhere if we are to balance the books, as required by law.

We have already had to achieve savings of £90 million since 2010, and have fought successfully to protect services as far as possible, including many which have simply been disappearing elsewhere. We have achieved this by focusing savings in Borough Hall, not out in the community.

With extensive efficiencies already achieved, however, the scope for making savings away from the front line is reduced.

Nevertheless, we are taking major measures which will help in this effort. Central to this is the Council’s Digital Transformation Plan. The digitalisation of Council services and processes will save £10 million annually while also making more services available online, 24/7.

Tough decisions are simply unavoidable, though. For example, the government is stopping the weekly collections support grant in addition to its massive overall funding cuts, forcing Bedford Borough to join the overwhelming majority of areas which have fortnightly black bin collection.

Other service changes are being consulted on this Autumn, so please have a look and take part. you can keep up-to-date with Council consultations and services by signing up to its ‘Stay Connected’ email service via Bedford.gov.uk.

The best way to tackle a crisis is by working together, as we fight to get the best for Bedford Borough in what is a desperate funding situation for local public services.

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HISTORICALLY SPEAKING – by David Fowler, Bedford Tour Guide

A

George Witt – Mayor of Bedford 1835

S yOU walk over the Town Bridge, spare a glance for this plaque commemorating George Witt MD FRS, arguably the most colourful of all of Bedford’s Mayors.

Born at Swaffam Prior, Cambridgeshire in 1804, he studied at St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London and then served for two years with the East India Company, qualifying as a doctor, using his experience from treating cholera on board his ship in Calcutta. He was elected House Surgeon at Bedford General Infirmary in 1828 and four years later was appointed Physician and Secretary, its senior medical post.

He organised an Infirmary Museum and established an anatomical reference collection, giving 7.00am clinical lectures to staff & public and became a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1834 for his medical knowledge.

He gained a seat on the Common

Council of Bedford Corporation in 1832 and was elected Mayor for one year in 1835, (at the young age of 31!), becoming very popular for his campaign to remove the Toll and residing at the Bedford Girl’s School house named after him.

When railway mania spread across the country, he was a director of the Bedford Railway Company which brought the railway from Bletchley to Bedford in 1846. Typhus fever had become a major problem and Dr Witt proposed the construction of a Fever Hospital at the Infirmary, building works started six months later and it opened in 1848.

In 1849 Dr Witt resigned for “personal reasons”, after more than twenty years’ service probably due to ill health, emigrating to Sydney with his wife and a servant. A collector throughout his life, there was uproar in the Town that his collection of natural histo-

ry and antiquities might disappear.

Petitions were set up warning against the dispersal and loss from the locality of the physician's personal collection and calling for it to be placed in the hands of trustees with a view to establishing a local museum. It eventually found its way into the Bedford Modern School Museum and thence to The Higgins.

In Sydney he set up as a doctor, but with the Gold Rush of 1851, he became a Banker, amassing enough of a fortune to return to London in 1854, to live at Prince's Terrace (now Ennismore Gardens), Hyde Park, for the rest of his life. Here, using his travelling and medical experience, he set up on the ground floor of his house the first Turkish Baths in London, where “noble Lords, members of the Church, physicians and engineers” could be found week after week!

He was also collecting again, but this time “Symbols of the

Early Worship of Mankind” across the centuries and continents showing every representation of the phallus, convinced - as were many of his contemporaries - that these were the icons of all primitive religions.

He was in the habit of lecturing about them on Sundays to select audiences (men only of course).

When he became worried about his health in 1865, he offered his enormous collection to the British Museum ranging from Greek vases, Egyptian sculpture and Roman terracotta to medieval pottery and beyond.

It was accepted and locked it away in a cupboard, the Secretum, to which only scholars had access.

George Witt died in 1869. The majority of that cupboard has only recently gone on public display amongst their appropriate sections eg Indian, Egyptian, Italian etc. also a number of pieces were at the centre of a Barbican exhibition “Seduced” in 2008.

Call Patricia on 07724 905406 for rates advertising@rosettapublishing.com

The Steam Room at George Witt’s Ennismore Gardens terraced house.

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 29

Monthly update from the Police and Crime Commissioner

by Kathryn Holloway

NEW DEAL FOR PARISHES

A FAIRER deal on policing – whether you live in the town or country - was the focus of my first annual Parish Councils’ Conference on 10 September, which I hosted alongside the Chief Constable Jon Boutcher and other senior officers at the Council Chambers in Chicksands.

I expressed from early on in my Police and Crime Plan that I wanted an annual forum with parish councillors as they are an absolutely vital link between Bedfordshire Police and the rest of the community. Parish councillors are our eyes and ears to pass on crucial information about crimes and anti-social behaviour happening in the villages and smaller towns and, also, I wanted to pass on the word to local residents of what the Force is doing and why to tackle crime. I intend to hold one every year of my administration.

The top tier team from Bedfordshire Police joined me at the meeting to show just how seriously rural crime issues are now being taken by the Force and to pass on the information about its operations to get on top of matters from fly-tipping to illegal travellers’ encampments. The aim of these events is also to let parishes know just what other pressures Bedfordshire Police are facing across the board on a day to day basis.

Chief Constable Boutcher confirmed that the Force has not only appointed a Rural Crime Liaison officer to work with parishes and a network of members of the National Farmers’ Union and other Countryside organisations, but tasked Inspector Tracey Day with drawing up a business case for a new Rural Crime Unit dedicated to preventing and investigating crimes in the countryside.

Parish Councillors heard further presentations on correct use of the 101 number for non-life-threatening incidents and the need to support the Force in recruitment of Village Specials with full policing powers from Head of the Special Constabulary and Force Control Room, Wayne Humberstone. Inspector Hob Hoque of the Community Cohesion Team stressed that his officers want to build bridges to parish neighbourhoods as well as with urban diverse communities.

All parishes were asked to come up with three top policing priorities in their area which will be addressed at a follow-up event on December 16 at a venue to be announced..

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30 — BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

email: pat@rosettapublishing.com

out & about Dracula comes to Bedford The Place, Bradgate Road, Bedford 19-22 October 2016

Bedford Drama Company is excited to announce its pre-Halloween production of a brand new stage version of Bram Stoker’s classic horror, Dracula.

This gripping new adaption by Stephen Dietz restores the suspense and seduction of the classic novel to the stage. As Count Dracula begins to exert his will upon the residents of London, they try to piece together the clues of his appearance, in a valiant attempt to save themselves from a hideous fate.

Rich with both humour and horror, this play paints a wickedly theatrical picture of Stoker’s famous Vampire. The show is being directed

by Lorna Dawson, who in recent years has been responsible for successfully bringing other literary classics to the Bedford stage, such as Little Women and the Diary of Anne Frank.

On her choice of Dracula, she said: “Despite the ghoulish nature of this story, it’s a lot of fun to produce

and direct and I’m convinced audiences are really going to enjoy it. After many conversations about how to set the play we have chosen to keep it very original and true to the gothic period. There are many technical challenges, not least because of the amount of stage blood

required! I’m sure the show will get our audiences in the mood for Halloween this year!”

The show promises to be dramatic and genuinely chilling.

Therefore it is not suitable for children or anybody who considers themselves to be of a sensitive

disposition.

Dracula is at The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE from 19th – 22nd October.

Tickets are priced at £9.50 and £8.00 for concessions. They are available online via www.theplacebedford.org.uk or from The Place Box Office (01234) 354321.

This show is not suitable for children; parental guidance is advised for those aged 16-18.

All performances commence at 7.30pm. By arrangement with the Dramatists Play Service.

At Les Petits Lapins, children learn French in a fun and engaging way using songs, rhymes and games.

Please join us for a free session on Tuesday October 11th at 4.30pm at Project 229. Children of all ages are welcome.

To book a place on the free taster session, email: verity.payne@gmail.com or search Les Petits Lapins Bedford on Facebook and message me.

French lessons

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

New café at Priory Country Park

The Priory Country Park visitor centre has taken on a new lease of life with a brand new café!

The Cloverdale Retreat Café opened its doors last month and owner Glenda Mansfield and her partner Steve are getting to know park users ahead of the grand opening. The café is open to the public seven days a week from 10am to 4pm; serving a range of teas, coffee, savoury snacks and cakes.

The new café seats forty inside with additional seating for over twenty customers at outside tables; and the team have plans to double this number as soon as possible. It benefits from the quiet, tranquil atmosphere of the park, with great a view across the lake.

The team at the Cloverdale Retreat Café have been approached

BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 31

by various clubs and associations who wish to use the new café as a meeting place either before or after their activities in Priory Country Park; and they are happy to talk to anyone regarding the possible use of the café for specific events.

Owner Glenda Mansfield has many years’ experience in catering, having founded Cloverdale Catering in 1986. Glenda and her partner Steve have themselves been keen users of the park for 12 years, often walking over ten miles per day in and around the area.

Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson, said: “We now have cafes in five of the Borough’s parks and all are hugely popular community hubs. Priory offers a wonderful country park setting and is popular with people of all ages and with numerous clubs and groups, and the new café will only make it an even more attractive destination.”

HALLOWEEN FUN DAY - Saturday 29 October 2016 -

Pumpkin carving, food tasting, face painting, family fun and prizes to be won!

Visit us at Cople Road, Cardington, Bedford, MK44 3SH Tel: 01234 831222 summerhillfarmshop.co.uk Mon to Sat 9am-5pm Sunday 10am-4pm

Ethically reared local meat, fresh bread, fruit and vegetables, extensive range of British cheeses, local ales, wines and hampers.

Free car parking and easy access

32 — BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

The Last Five Years

Pumpkins were the new crop grown this year on the family farm of Franklin’s of Thorncote in readiness for the annual Autumn Open Day on Saturday October 29th .

John Franklin, pictured here amid the still-growing vegetable patch, and family will be opening the gates of the really rural site from 9am - 4 pm.

This free of charge family fun day is a great hit with locals who can sample and buy a selection of free range foods and products such as meats, jams, cheese, chutneys and puddings. There will be BBQ and Hog Roast too.

Franklin’s Farm is a real ‘field to fork’ business with a small number of pigs, sheep, poultry and cattle enjoying the country life before being prepared and sold via the butchery and shop on site.

Autumn Open Day

Trinity Arts and Leisure Theatre, Bromham Road, Bedford, MK40 2BS 8pm Tuesday 25th & Saturday 29th October

In a departure from the large scale musicals usually performed by The Marianettes, The Last Five years features a cast of two! The Last Five years is an intimate window into a couple’s doomed marriage. Cathy, a struggling actress, and Jamie, a budding novelist on the brink of wild success, are 20- somethings in New york who meet, fall in love, marry, and divorce over the span of five years.

Cathy tells the story from the end of their marriage; Jamie begins from when they first meet. As the musical unfolds, Cathy moves backward in time to the beginning of the relationship as Jamie moves toward the end; they meet only once, in the middle, at their wedding.

Since its Off- Broadway premiere in 2002, this funny, poignant, and devastatingly honest two-person production has enraptured audiences around the world with its spellbinding and emotional score and libretto.

October fun at Bunyan John Bunyan Museum Thursday 27th October

Wondering what to do with the kids this October half-term? Come down to John Bunyan Museum and join in with the fun and activities.

On Thursday 27th October families can have fun finding out about Stuart Superstitions, Folklore, and Food.

There will be making, creating, and participating in our ‘Scary Stuarts’ workshops at 11am and 1.30pm (workshops last 60mins including refreshments) age 6+ accompanied, £2 a child – Spaces are limited so booking advisable – contact 01234 270303 or curator@bunyanmeeting.co.uk

email: pat@rosettapublishing.com

Danesborough Chorus seeks new recruits

As the BBC Proms reach their final lap on the way to famous Last Night Of The Proms concert, many people will feel inspired to get involved with music-making. And local choir Danesborough Chorus offers the perfect opportunity to discover the inspiration and satisfaction that singing together can bring.

“If you have ever wanted to join a choir and sing wonderful classical music, now’s the time to join the Danesborough Chorus rehearsals as we prepare for a new season’s concerts” explained choir chairman Jeremy Hopkinson. “We are starting to learn music by Coleridge-Taylor, Barber, Lauridsen and Whitacre for our November concert in Leighton Buzzard, and at the same time, we will be preparing music for our atmospheric Christmas Carol Concert in Woburn Church. So why not come along, and enjoy the camaraderie of choral singing?”

Danesborough Chorus is one the region’s most established and renowned choirs, with people of all ages and a wide range of jobs and interests. Rehearsals are held every Wednesday at 7.45pm in Aspley Guise Village Hall.

“Hopefully, joining Danesborough Chorus will help people feel confident about learning to sing in a choir” said Jeremy. “We are brought together by our love of singing some of the greatest music ever written for voices. And at the end of the Autumn term, there’s nothing quite as rewarding as singing songs and carols, traditional and new, in our Christmas Concert in the festive atmosphere of Woburn Church.”

This is a great opportunity for anyone who hasn’t sung for a while or is new to choral singing and not yet confident about joining this type of choir. Please call Carol yirrell, tel: 01296 680328 for more information and encouragement. It could be the best call you make this autumn!

2016-17 Concert Season

Bedford Music Club brings the best of classical chamber music to your doorstep for their 48th season! The 2016-17 Music on Thursdays season begins on 20 October with a concert given by the 2014 BBC young Musician of the year Martin James Bartlett: it will be a treat to hear an up-and-coming young pianist who was chosen to play at the Queen's 90th birthday service this year at St Pauls. He'll be playing on the exquisite Steinway concert grand at Bedford Girls' School, Cardington Road.

The five concerts that follow draw together some of the finest artists in the fields of baroque ensemble playing, chamber music, song and choral singing, including a recital in March 2017 by local celebrity opera singer Kitty Whately, accompanied on the piano by Bedford Music Club Artistic Director and award-winning accompanist William Vann.

Season tickets: £85, Student (1825) £10, Under 18 £5 Individual concert tickets: £18, Student (18-25) £5, Under 18 £2 Tickets are available on the door, from Clem Barnes 01234 261811 or from enquiries@bedfordmusicclub.co.uk

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

Castle Comedy The Gordon Arms Bedford Thursday October 13th

On Thursday October 13th, The Gordon Arms, Bedford welcomes Perrier Comedy Award nominee, Luke Toulson! Luke is in demand at the top comedy clubs in the country and has a deserved reputation, of being an act that guarantees big laughs. He has starred on BBC3’s ‘Russell Howard’s Good News’ and has written for Stand Up For The Week (Ch4) and Stand Up For Sport Relief (BBC1). He is also a regular voice on the radio with credits that include being a guest on ‘The Back End Of Next Week’ (5live), ‘Loose Ends’ (Radio 4) and ‘Hawksbee and Jacobs’ (talkSPORT).

In 2013 his solo show ‘I Don’t Know How I Feel About My Kids’ was selected by Amused Moose as one of the Top 10 Comedy Shows at the Edinburgh Fringe.

“A gifted comic” The Sunday Times “a highly skilled and very, very funny comedian” ThreeWeeks Opening the show is Steve Best.

Steve is a great visual comedian, harnessing a mind-boggling array of gadgets and gags to keep his audience in stitches. Funny, frenetic and mad, his act can feature anything from blowing up a woman and eating balloons, to cutting his hand off and doing press-ups on his

willy. His unique form of slapstick comedy is backed up with astounding talent; he plays the guitar like a genius, can juggle five balls, ride a unicycle and is fluent in Serbo-Croatian!

“Inspired collection of visual japes” Time Out Also appearing is American comedienne Robyn Perkins who has been bringing her ‘engaging persona’ (Steve Bennett, Chortle) to comedy clubs around the UK and US since 2011.

The shows sell out quickly, with the Dinner & Show tickets being particularly popular, so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment!

Doors open 6.30pm, Shows start at 8.00pm and tickets are £8 (£6 NUS) or if you fancy a treat, you can buy £16/tickets, which include a pre, show meal and glass of wine from the Gordon Arms. www.castlecomedy.co.uk

BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 33

34 — BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

Bedford Play is sell out success

More than 1500 people attended a unique play about the history of Bedford at the Quarry Theatre St Luke’s last week. Commissioned by The Harpur Trust as part of its 450th anniversary, Somewhere in England (The Bedford Play) was a sell out with six ticketed performances and two additional free shows; a Gala performance for invited guests and a community performance for school children and volunteers from many of the town’s charities, libraries and museums.

The play centred around three fictional characters working for the BBC, which was stationed in Bedford during the second World War. The characters embark on a project researching the origins of the town in which they will be stationed for the next three years, a town which can only be referred to as ‘Somewhere in England’ to protect it’s people from Hitler’s Luftwaffe.

In a plot expertly woven together by playwright Mark Burgess, a further cast of seven actors took the audience back and forth in time unveiling a series of flashbacks through 1000 years of history. With costumes hired in by the Trust from the National Theatre, and live music provided by staff at Bedford School, this was certainly a professional production.

Sarah Elam, the play’s producer

email: pat@rosettapublishing.com and project manager of the Trust’s 450th anniversary celebrations said: “We have had some wonderful feedback from people who saw the play but a highlight for me was meeting some of our Almshouse residents after a matinee and hearing their own very personal memories; One lady told me how she had been to watch the launch of the R101 as a child whilst another had been at court meeting the baby she was about to adopt when Hanratti arrived for his trial.”

Mark Burgess, who is an accomplished playwright for Radio 4 and wrote and directed the play said: “I am delighted that the production was a success both artistically and in terms of it being a sell-out and I’ve been overwhelmed by the hugely positive response from many who are born and bred in the town. I certainly feel that we have done justice to the story of Bedford.”

Chief Executive of The Harpur Trust, David Russell, who came up with the idea for the play, said: “There cannot be many towns, or even cities for that matter, that have their own play and I would venture that none are as good as this one.”

The Harpur Trust has put on a range of community events for the town already this year including a Run and Fun Day in May at Priory Country Park and a children’s art competition and exhibition at The Higgins Bedford.

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

Jah Wobble & The Invaders Of The Heart + Guests Bedford Esquires 8pm Friday 14th October

The man born John Wardle began his musical journey when he met John Lydon and Sid Vicious in 1973. It was Vicious who not only nicknamed John ‘Jah Wobble’ after a drunken binge but also loaned him his first bass guitar.

Lydon asked JW to join Public Image Limited (aka PiL) in spring 1978. Wardle’s distinctive ‘low end’ bass became the backbone of PiL’s pioneering sound.

After its follow-up, the exploratory yet sinister soundscapes of 'Metal Box', Wardle became disillusioned by politics within the band and their reluctance to play live. He eventually split from PiL in mid-1980s and embarked on a prolific solo career.

Over the past three decades or so, Jah Wobble has ploughed his own furrow as a prolific solo artist, as well as becoming a well-respected session musician, with a genuine passion for Eastern and Global music.

He has worked with a diverse range of musicians, including Baaba Maal, Bjork, Primal Scream, Brian Eno, Sinead O’Connor, Julianne Regan, Dolores O’Riordan, Holgat Czukay, The Edge and Chaka Demus & Pliers.

Jah Wobble's Invaders of the Heart released their debut album in 1990 and received a Mercury Music Prize nomination in 1991 for the 'Rising above bedlam' album.

After the acclaimed 'Take me to God' album in 1994 the band split and Jah Wobble launched his own 30 Hertz record label which has subsequently released around 30 albums.

BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 35

The Shimmer Band + guests Holy Moly’s (Esquires) Friday 21st October

On the Pad Present’s annual visit to the Great Escape festival in Brighton our assembled list of bands to see and watch out for included the relatively unknown group The Shimmer Band.

Some three days in and some odd 50 bands later (a real test for anyone) we were nearly at the end of the festival there was still one band we wanted to catch The Shimmer Band who were by chance opening up for fellow Bedfordians The Wholls. From the moment they hit the stage The Shimmer Band delivered the finished article for a

band who looked like they are ready for the big time before they have unleased their second single and became one of our highlights of the weekend.

Following on from the anthemic BBC6Music favourite ‘FREEDOM’ the Bristol based band returned with their third single ‘SUNKICK’ which was out on Komplex Recordings August 12th.

The Shimmer Band are: Tom Newman (singer), Willz Hatcher (drums), Tom Smith (guitar/synths), Tom Kuras (bass) and Babsy (guitar) The Shimmer Band play the intimate surroundings of Holy Moly’s for their first visit to Bedford Esquires with special guest support tbc.

Tickets £7 advance from Seetickets online and from Esquires bar, Planet Boutique and Mario’s Hair Design in Kempston.

36 — BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

Pumpkin Trail and Treats Pumpkin activities and trail around the gardens at Knebworth House – spooky fun and games for children.

Come along in your Halloween fancy dress (adults too!). There will be a children’s fancy dress competition during the afternoonBring along a predecorated pumpkin – there is a

26/27/28th October

daily prize for the best one.

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

The Garden Terrace Tea Room will be open during the event for the sale of hot drinks and snacks. The Gift Shop and Dinosaur Trail will also be open but other Knebworth attractions including the House and Adventure Playground will be closed.

Ticket prices: Adults £3.50.

Child (2-12) tickets £12.00 for Trail + Disco, or £6.75 for just the Trail.

Book online www.knebworthhouse.com

email: pat@rosettapublishing.com

Picasso & the Masters of Print opens at The Higgins Bedford on 15th October 2016; offering a unique opportunity to view some of the most important prints by one of the most highly regarded artists of the 20th century.

Renowned for his paintings and sculptures, Picasso was also the twentieth century’s greatest printmaker and the seven prints by Picasso held at The Higgins Bedford spectacularly showcase the varied printmaking techniques that he mastered.

The print Still Life under the Lamp, 1962 is a highlight of the exhibition and one of Picasso’s best known linocuts. By then in his 80s Picasso continued to innovate, using a complex new technique to create this colourful night-time scene.

The Frugal Meal, 1904, is the earliest work in the exhibition and one of the last works of Picasso’s Blue Period. A haunting depiction of

an emaciated couple in a café in Montmarte, The Frugal Meal is considered to be one of the masterpieces of twentieth century graphic art.

These stunning works will be accompanied by a wider exhibition of major artists’ original prints drawn from the Cecil Higgins Collection and further afield. Five centuries of printmaking will be on show, ranging from masterpieces by key figures in the history of European printmaking, such as Rembrandt, Picasso and Matisse.

Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, Councillor Sarah-Jayne Holland said:”The fact that you are able to see the work of one of the twentieth centuries’ most revered artists in Bedford Borough is truly fantastic and I would like to encourage everyone to visit the new exhibition when it opens this Autumn.”

The prestigious collection of more than 400 prints housed at The Higgins Bedford spans all periods, styles and techniques of printmaking and includes the work of leading international artists, including Rembrandt, Warhol, Lichtenstein and Hockney.

Christian Community

Festival of Lights

Picasso and the Masters of Print The Higgins Bedford 15th October

Did you know that Dorothea Court in Park Avenue, Bedford, is a complex of flatlets providing independent and assisted living for elderly Christians in lovely, peaceful surroundings? It is run by the national charity, the Pilgrims' Friend Society, whose motto is ‘Christians for Older People’.

On Saturday 5th November there will be a meeting at 3.30pm at Dorothea Court to hear about and give thanks to God for the work of the society in the local area.

After the service there will be tea and cakes in the dining room.

Everybody is welcome to this annual thanksgiving occasion.

More information is available from 01234 768758 or www.pilgrimsfriend.org.uk.

Bedford Indian Community (BIC) is in its sixth year of organising the on Saturday the 29th of October 2016 at the Corn Exchange, Bedford with a parade at 2.30pm and performances from 3 to 8pm, see poster attached.

BIC’s main aim is to advocate community cohesion by encouraging better understanding and promoting harmonious co-existence among the members of diverse Bedford communities.

Volunteers are being recruited to help with various tasks on the day.

In exchange, volunteers are entitled to free food and drinks.

If you are interesting, please ring 07787774167 or email marieangecomerfordraillon@ gmail.com.

The Osiligi Troupe of Maasai Warriors Bringing their mesmerising performance of Music and Dance to

St Owen’s Church, Bromham MK43 8LL 7.30pm Wednesday 19th October Adult £10 – Child £5 BOOKING ESSENTIAL! 01234 825454 (Mornings) 01234 826551 (Evenings) Proceeds in aid of Community projects in Southern Kenya & St Owen’s Building Fund

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 — 37

38 — BEDFORD BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON MUSICAL SOCIETy

of sacred and light music at Putnoe Heights Methodist Church Saturday 15th October 7:30pm.

Tickets cost £7.50, (£4.00 children) on the door. Proceeds to the church’s Autumn Charity Appeal and Church Funds.

For more information about the choir please call 01234 781010.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORD RSPB LOCAL GROUP meet at ARA club Manton Lane Bedford MK41 7PF. 7.30pm Thursday 20th October

CONCERT

Carl Barimore presents ‘The Nest Record Scheme’ Outlining the work of the BTO to monitor breeding birds in the UK. Suitable for Experts and Novices, RSPB membership not essential.

Entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 annual group membership £5 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

THE COCK INN Bedford Road, Wootton

HALLOWEEN FANCY DRESS, DISCO, BBQ, RAFFLE 7pm on 29th October auction in aid of Sue Ryder/ St Johns Hospice

FAIRTRADE AT ST ANDREW’S

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FABULOUS AUTUMN FAIR

Beautiful New Gifts, Cards, Jewellery and Stylish Accessories Toys and Seasonal Treats. (Divine Chocolate) ST ANDREW’S CHURCH CENTRE KIMBOLTON ROAD, BEDFORD Friday 21st October 4-9pm Saturday 22nd October 1- 6pm Sun 23rd Oct 11.15am- 12.30pm Entrance £1.00 (including refreshments) Children 50p By paying a fair price for the items, we can help the producers to work their way out of poverty. Buying just one fairly traded item makes a difference. So please try to come along on one of the days –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORDSHIRE FAMILy HISTORy SOCIETy

Interested in Family History?

Then come along to one of our monthly talks Friday 7th October 7.15 p.m.

THE FORGOTTEN SPY –––––––––––– Friday 4th November 7.15p.m.

WHAT HAPPENED TO LUCY? Drama Hall of Mark Rutherford School, Wentworth Drive Bedford MK41 8PX Members free, visitors £1.

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BROMHAM ANNUAL

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

email: pat@rosettapublishing.com

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CHARITY BAZAAR

THE ‘MARY ROSE’ RESTORED

WORLD SHIP SOCIETY

Bromham Village Hall 1.30pm Admission 30p Children Free Crafts, Tombola, Bric-a-Brac, Cakes and Preserves, Christmas Gifts. Supporting local and national charities For information please call 01234 822005 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Saturday 29th October 2016

SILVER CELEBRATION CONCERT

BIDDENHAM HANDBELL RINGERS and guests Saturday, 29th October at 7.00 pm Biddenham Village Hall Tickets: £10, under 16s free includes buffet supper and a glass of wine/juice Proceeds to support Parkinson's UK and Motor Neurone Disease Assn.

Tickets from Anthea Slark (01234 350644) or Paul Fricker (01234 342843) or jean.sargeant@hotmail.co.uk –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORD ART SOCIETy Friday 9th September 2016 7.15 for 7.30 start, at Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford, MK41 8EB

PETER KEEGAN, USING OILS, GIVES US A DYNAMIC PORTRAIT

Entry is free for members, £5 for visitors. Contact Jean Paterson 01234 307210 or www.bedsartsociety.co.uk for information

BIDDENHAM GARDENERS ASSOCIATION Tuesday 18th October at 7:30 Biddenham Village Hall

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COLOUR IN THE AUTUMN GARDEN

by Roger Harvey

Visitors very welcome Admission £5 per meeting - includes

raffle & refreshments Website: www.biddenhamgardenersa ssociation.org.uk ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BEDFORD ARCHITECTURAL, ARCHAEOLOGICAL, & LOCAL HISTORy SOCIETy 7.30pm Wednesday 12th October Illustrated talk:

"Bedfordshire's Landscape - Backdrop to its History" Brian Kerr (Cranfield University) Putnoe Heights Church & Community Centre Bedford MK41 8EB Non-members welcome - £2-00 entry Enquiries (01234) 365095 www.baalhs.org.uk

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BEDFORD BRANCH Meetings held Kempston Constitution Club 196A Bedford Road, Kempston 3rd WEDNESDAy in the month 19:30 for 20:00 start

illustrated talk by Edward Towne, Official Mary 19 October 2016 Rose Trust lecturer Edward Parry giving a shipping Bedford School Library, de video presentation Parys Ave, Burnaby Road gate.

Branch Secretary, Dave Menzies 7.30pm Tuesday 11 October Telephone: 01234 352014 Free to HA members (Historical e-mail : dave.menzies@tiscali.co.uk Association-Bedford). Others –––––––––––––––––––––––– welcome with a donation.

Details 07989 837819/01234 266839 The raising of the Mary Rose, the sixteenth century warship Martin James Bartlett, piano that sank at Portsmouth Harbour, Mozart, Granados, Ginastera, was one of the most exciting Schumann/Liszt, Bax, Barber historical rescues of the 7.45pm Thursday 20 October Twentieth Century. The Bedford Girls' School conservation of the ship and the hundreds of objects found there Tickets £18, Students (18-25) £5, is nearing completion. Don't miss Under 18 £2 on the door or from the opportunity to hear the latest 01234 261811 in this exciting story. www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk

MUSIC ON THURSDAYS

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– This year the Scout Association is celebrating 100 years of Scouting.

But in Bromham, 2016 sees the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Bromham Scout Group.

From its inception in 1966 the Group has grown to include Beavers, Cubs and Scouts – both boys and girls – currently totalling 100+ members.

To help keep their camping equipment up to date, our next fundraising event will be BROMHAM SCOUT GROUP

DO YOUR BEST!

JUMBLE SALE

Saturday, 8 October, from 2pm.

Bromham Village Hall, Village Road, Bromham, MK43 8JP. We sell clothing, household textiles, shoes & bags; books, toys, games, jigsaws & bric-a-brac.

Entry 50p. Refreshments available.

Proceeds of the sale help fund the Bromham Beaver, Cub & Scout groups.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORD LOCAL GROUP OF THE WILDLIFE TRUST Wednesday 12th October 2016 Meeting 7.30pm

‘CLIMATE CHANGE AND LOCAL WILDLIFE’ an illustrated talk by Brian Eversham

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 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BEDFORD NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION 7.30pm Tuesday October 18th Addison Centre – Kempston Speaker – Nancy Gregory on ‘Scholars, Spectres and Surprises’ Nancy is always a favourite.

Cost - £2.50 for members and more if you are a guest.

2.30pm Tuesday, 15th November Speaker – Professor Anthony Slinn on ‘Vincent Van Gogh’ The professor is a highly recommended speaker.

For more information ring Betty Thomas on 01480 860 421 you will receive a warm welcome if you attend.

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BRITISH RED CROSS BEDFORDSHIRE, Saturday 19th November 10.30am – 4pm, Entry Fee £4 The programme will include demonstrations, tastings, and book signings.

Live performances by local school choirs.

Stalls will be selling superb, quality items and many handmade gifts and products.

Homemade cakes and refreshments available, raffle, tombola and much more.

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

CHRISTMAS FAIR

NCT NORTH BEDS

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Top quality baby and children’s clothes and equipment at bargain prices

NEARLY NEW SALE

Saturday 8th October 2016 12 noon – 1:30pm (11.30am for NCT Members) £1 admission fee Bedford Athletic Stadium, Barker Lane, Bedford, MK41 9SB ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Firefighters demonstrating how they extinguish a chimney fire.

Keep your chimney safe

After the summer as temperatures fall again, you may be thinking about lighting your open fire or wood burner to warm your home and enjoy the flicker of a real coal or wood fire. However last year

we had dozens of chimney fires across the county and lighting an unswept chimney could lead to a serious fire caused by a blocked flue or build-up of half-burnt material in the chimney.

Follow these tips to keep your chimney fire safe:

protect against flying I Ensure chimneys are I Ensure good quality and an appliance is purposely sparks from hot embers. set at a low or minimum swept regularly by a appropriate fuel is used. output normally for overprofessional chimney I Never store the fuel next I Avoid blocking air vents, night burning to be revived sweep. to the appliance – so air bricks or otherwise in the morning without the I Between “sweeps” keep sparks do not set it alight. interrupting the air supply. need for relighting. chimneys, flues and I Ensure the fire is I Avoid ‘slumbering’ an appliances clean and well I Appliances that have been completely out before appliance unless it has maintained. lined still require regular been tested as safe to do going to bed or leaving the I Always use a fire guard to sweeping. so. Slumber mode is when house.

Get help finding a local professional chimney sweep from our website: www.bedsfire.com/CommunitySafety/HomeFireSafety/Pages/ChimneySafety.aspx

For more advice visit www.bedsfire.com Follow us on Twitter @Bedsfire or on Facebook www.facebook/bedsfire for more safety tips Get safety information & alerts direct from us via BedsAlert. Sign up at www.bedsfirealert.co.uk