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High Street joins the River Festival for the first time BEDFORD BOROUGH EDITION
This High Street closure is sponsored by Bedford BID, and will really see the town centre brought into the River Festival as part of this fantastic weekend which, also includes the Embankment,
Russell Park, Mill Meadows and St Mary’s Gardens. One of the oldest cars in Britain is expected to appear, a stately 1904 Ford Model C from America. From that to a
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Staff at Manton Heights Care Centre put on a grand show on Thursday, April 28. Marking the occasion of the 97th birthday of one of their residents. A serving soldier in the Royal Dragoon’s during WWII, Michael Read was visibly moved by the surprise birthday celebration. Once he had gathered himself he regaled a packed audience with tales of his war time experiences. The event was attended by members of
McClaren 720s supercar, and a whole host of motoring goodies in between with iconic cars from every era and every type from the last century. While all this is happening on the High Street, Riverside Square will become home to a bevvy of American cars, most of which are too large to be positioned anywhere else. One of them, we understand, has a turning circle of 40 feet! Mayor Dave Hodgson said: “It’s fantastic to be able to bring the High Street into the mix of the River Festival hosting the Motoring Display.
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THIS year, the High Street will be closed for the River Festival weekend as it plays host to the ‘One Hundred’ Motoring Display.
Over 100 dazzling vehicles will be displayed down the length of the High Street and around St Paul’s Square.
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There will be some spectacular historic and modern sights to see, all adding to the excitement and events of the River Festival which is sure to have something for everyone.” Adrian Grubb, motoring display organiser on behalf of Bedford Borough Council, said: “Each vehicle has a story to tell, this is truly a very select collection! Hopefully, something that will be a regular attraction within the River Festival in years to come.”
the local branch of the Royal British Legion, who along with a WWII re-enactment group emphasized Michael’s military past. Four serving members of the Household Cavalry made the journey from their London barracks to recognise Michael’s service to his country. Fab 40s singers and dancers added to the war-time feel of the party. Michael is seen here flanked by managerial staff at the centre.
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TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
Horse riding charity for disabled celebrates 60 years BEDFORD Disabled Horse Riding Association (BDHRA) celebrated a belated 60th Anniversary, one year late due to Covid, at their Riding Centre in Willington on Saturday, May 7, with a
Champagne Reception and Hog Roast. The Trustees organised a wellearned thank you for the charity’s volunteers who are the lifeblood of any such operation.
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Helen Dunster receives the Queen’s Award from Helen Nellis.
Two volunteers in particular were recognised, firstly, Helen Dunster who is stepping down from the Management Committee but who will continue to volunteer in her capacity as provider of coffee and lunches, Helen has been a volunteer at BDHRA for over 45 years, and secondly, Brenda Woodham, who at the grand old age of 91, still volunteers. Helen is seen receiving the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service on behalf of BDHRA from HM Lord Lieutenant Helen Nellis on a previous visit. Helen Nellis commented that “she was delighted that such an able and enthusiastic group were able to celebrate their milestone anniversary in this way and looked forward to visiting them again in the future”. The charity also wishes to thank the Bedford School boys who come every Wednesday. BDHRA has had an association with Bedford School for over 10 years originally instigated by Caroline Medley who has sadly since passed away and who is remembered with fondness by all at BDHRA. BDHRA has been going strong since 1961 and has purpose built facilities at its centre in Willington, visit our website for ways that you can help through volunteering or donating. www.bdhra.co.uk.
Brenda Woodham Volunteer 91 years young flanked by Amanda Varlety (Trustee) and Ivan Twigden (Trustee).
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New Director of Engineering
ADVANCES in modern educational approaches to teaching and tutoring engineering subjects are now in top gear at The Bedford College Group. New Director of Engineering and Motor Vehicle Dr. Mohammad Milani has a wealth of expertise in this area and will be developing further degree-level learning opportunities as he speeds up the curriculum, teaching and learning practices to keep pace with the over-taking demand for skills in these areas across the uK. Mohammad has a Master of Engineering (M.Eng) and Doctorate (Ph.D) from one of the uK’s top universities, The university of Birmingham. He has spent years in Electronics Engineering-related industries and
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is an expert in educational management at higher education and further education. “There are great opportunities here at The Bedford College Group which is already in the fast lane as a regional provider of engineering and motor vehicle training. We will be driving faster to match young people’s education with industry opportunities.” said Mohammad who previously worked at the Heart of Worcestershire College and remains an External Examiner and a leader for number of uK universities as well as Pearson, in all educational training standards. The Bedford College Group includes the Advanced Engineering Buchanan Centre at Cauldwell Street, Bedford; the Advanced Automotive Technology Centre in Brunel Road, Bedford and mirror unit across Tresham College campuses in Northants and the National College for Motorsport at Silverstone. “We have access to 100s of employers who are crying out for more and better engineering education and training which can lead young people into great careers in some of the most important industries in the country,” added Mohammad. If you are interested in a career in teaching engineering, or want to train for one of the most valued career areas in the uK visit www.bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk
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Dangerous criminal taunted police with ‘catch me if you can’ A DANGEROUS and violent man who taunted police by commenting ‘catch me if you can’ on his own wanted appeal has been jailed for eight years for multiple offences.
In February 2021, 20-yearold Jordan Carr, from Enfield in London, was wanted in connection with an incident in January 2020, an aggravated burglary in February 2021 and on recall to prison. On January 29, 2020, Carr and his friend Mason Matthews threatened two girls with an imitation firearm in order to establish the whereabouts of a suspect in a stabbing that occurred five months prior on August 15, 2019 in Bedford Road, Kempston. In February 2021, Carr was stopped and searched by officers in Kempston following an aggravated burglary nearby, where he gave police a false alias. Police later identified him as Jordan Carr and a media appeal was circulated for his arrest. The appeal, which was shared on Bedfordshire Police’s Facebook page, went viral after Carr commented ‘catch me if you can’ on the post. The comment received more than 5,500 reactions. In June 2021, Carr was arrested and subsequently charged with possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear or violence, perverting the course of justice and aggravated burglary. The aggravated burglary was later discounted at court. Matthews and Carr were both found guilty of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear or violence following a weeklong trial at Luton Crown Court in February 2022. In addition to this, Carr pleaded guilty to a separate GBH and possession of an offensive weapon. His friend, Mason Matthews, 22, of Owen Close in Kempston, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear and violence following the incident on January 2020 and was sentenced to two-and-a-half
Jordan Carr.
Mason Matthews.
years in jail alongside Carr at Guildford Crown Court on Thursday, May 12, 2022. The GBH and possession of an offensive weapon were committed whilst Carr was in prison, where he assaulted a fellow inmate with an improvised weapon made out of knives. Carr was classified as dangerous by the judge and sentenced to a total of eight years in prison, to serve an additional three on license. Bedfordshire Police’s Investigating Officer, Detective Sergeant David Gordon said: “Carr is clearly an extremely violent individual who has a certain arrogance about him and thinks he is above the law. “He challenged us to catch him if we could. We did, and he is now going to prison for a very long time.”
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Cllr Mohammed Nawaz appointed Speaker of Bedford Borough Council AT the Annual Full Council meeting held on Wednesday, May 11, 2022, Mohammed Nawaz, Labour Councillor for Kempston Central & East was appointed Speaker of Bedford Borough Council. First elected in 2011, Mohammed is now in his third term as a Borough Councillor. He is presently Vice-Chair of the Corporate & Budget Overview & Scrutiny Committee, and also sits on the Adult Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee. He is a member of Bedfordshire Police & Crime Panel. Nominating Councillor Nawaz, Councillor Sue Oliver, Bedford Borough Labour Group Leader, said: “He has been a Councillor for eleven years and during that time has gained in knowledge and confidence. “Within the Labour Group he has held the roles of Whip and has been practising his chairing skills as our Group Chair for the last year. “He was also Chair of Audit and Standards committees from 2019 – 21. Cllr Nawaz is always willing to take on responsibility and proved that he is able to learn from each experience.” Seconding the nomination, Bedford Borough Labour Group Carl Meader added: “I have known Mohammed for many years, both as a Borough Councillor and a Kempston Town Councillor. “He is very sociable and amenable, and just an all-round
nice guy which will stand him in good stead. I’m delighted Mohammed will be Speaker for the coming year and I know he will represent this council to the best of his ability.” Councillor Nawaz said: “It is an honour and privilege to be elected Speaker of Bedford Borough Council. I look forward to meeting lots of Bedford Borough residents over the course of the next year.”
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Scouts’ accommodation unit officially to open at last
THE Leslie Sell Activity Centre in Bromham, offers activities such as archery and climbing to around 600 Scouts, Cubs, Beavers and Guides each weekend in wonderful woodland setting. The old accommodation unit had seen better days, so in 2016 plans were started to fund a replacement. Bedfordshire Freemasons agreed to raise £500,000 to enable the construction of a log built unit to include underfloor heating, showers and a modern kitchen, which is fully wheelchairaccessible and has bunks for 48 children and their helpers. In just two years the funds were raised and construction began in July 2019, with the building substantially completed in March 2020. A grand opening ceremony had been
planned for the Spring – but then of course Covid restrictions put paid to all such plans. Two years on and May 26, 2022 will see the official opening of the facility by Peter Lowndes, the Pro Grand Master of the united Grand Lodge of England, in the presence of local Freemasons, dignitaries and of course the Scouts. A engraved stone will mark the occasion, under which there will be a time capsule. Tony Henderson, the head of Bedfordshire Freemasons said: “This building will stand for many decades, allowing young people the opportunity to engage in the kind of pursuits that grow skills, but more importantly that grow friendships. Freemasonry teaches integrity, friendship, respect and charity – values that are echoed in
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the Scouting movement, and we very proud to have been able to build something that will stand as testament to those values.” “I think that it has never been more important to invest our time and support in our young people,’ says Tim Kidd, the Scouts’ uK chief commissioner. ‘Scouts are passionate about helping young people to achieve the very best that they can and to learn skills that will stay with them for life. The support from the Bedfordshire Freemasons will help Bedfordshire Scouts enormously – huge numbers of young people will use the lodge to facilitate their learning about teamwork, leadership, practical skills, the natural world around them and, above all else, how to make this world a better place.”
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— JUNE 2022
TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
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Fire safety success
Centenary Service – The Bedford Branch of the Royal British Legion commemorated their centenary on Saturday, May 7, 2022. A service was conducted at St Peter de Merton church in Bedford where the Legion’s colours were accepted by Rev Cass Howes, the Bedford Branch’s Padre.
MODERN educational resources aimed at delivering fire safety messages to primary school children have been designed by students from The Bedford College Group. A team from Bedfordshire Fire & Rescue Service met with Art and Design students at the group’s South Bank Art Centre in Bedford to discuss the ideas which will be used locally and submitted to a national emergency services resource website: StayWise. The images captured a range of messages including: Stop, Drop and Roll, calling 999 and matches/lighter safety all of which are part of their educational safety messages delivered to Year Two students at Primary School. Station Commander Steve Fowler (Prevention Delivery Manager), Crew Commander from Kempston station Haydon Littlewood and Service Safeguarding Advisor Steph Godfrey, met with Work Placement Co-ordinator Matthew Hunt at the college. “The designs were all brilliant, we’re really impressed. The students paid close attention to the brief and created some fantastic and very useful new resources” said the fire team. Matthew Hunt said: “We are very grateful to the fire service for giving our students the chance to participate in a real design challenge and we hope their work proves useful in community work with children.” The next stage will be to consider how they are shared online and in printed forms.
SIx local children have discovered just what it takes to become a mini expert in chocolate after winning a chocolate-making session with award-winning chocolatier Aneesh Popat. Local charity Creating Memories teamed up with The Chocolatier, who is based in Sandy, Bedfordshire, to invite children with special educational needs, disabilities or life-limiting illnesses aged eight and over to design their very own chocolate creation, with the six winning designs being sold as part of a special box earlier this year. Creating Memories Founder Pritti Saggi approached The Chocolatier to collaborate on the special project for children last year as a way to bring joy, spark creativity and support local business. The winners got to come to the factory, meet
Aneesh and make chocolate. During the session, the children got to taste a variety of different chocolate flavours and toppings while learning about the chocolate making process, before rolling up their sleeves (literally!) and getting stuck in creating chocolate bars, lollipops, and cocoadusted truffles! Aneesh said: “It was fantastic to meet these amazing children, who had all been so imaginative with their chocolate designs! I loved helping them to make some wonderful chocolate treats to enjoy, allowing them to get covered in chocolate and have some fun with the different flavours and combinations. “Each child left the session with their creations, and memories that I hope will last for a long time. I know that I will truly treasure this experience.”
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ADVERTISER’S ANNOUNCEMENT
Beds Colleges set to merge
CENTRAL Bedfordshire College is to merge with The Bedford College Group. The announcement was made on Monday, March 28, 2022. The merger is proposed to take effect from February 1, 2023. Central Bedfordshire College, which recently celebrated its 60th anniversary, serves communities across southern Central Bedfordshire and Luton, with campuses in Dunstable, Houghton Regis, Leighton Buzzard and Luton. For both students and staff at Central Bedfordshire College it is ‘business as usual’. The management teams and governing bodies will be working closely together to ensure a seamless transition, and to put plans in place to expand the educational offer to meet the future skills needs of Central Bedfordshire and Luton communities. Prof James Crabbe JP, Chair of The Corporation at CBC, said: “I am delighted to say that the Governing Body of Central Bedfordshire College agreed to a merger with The Bedford College Group. The merger will allow our vision of skills and vocational education for our region, which we as a College have developed over many years, to become an actuality, with enormous benefits for our students, our staff, local employers and the community of Bedfordshire as a whole. I am confident that this merger of our College, with its strong culture of an inclusive, calm and caring environment for learners and staff, will fit well with the ethos of The Bedford College Group, and could become a model for mergers in the FE sector.”
Dr Ali Hadawi CBE, Chief Executive of CBC, added: “We at CBC are excited by the prospect of merging with The Bedford College Group. This merger will enable us to offer additional courses in a wider range of subjects to a larger number of learners, young and old. In line with the FE White paper, we will be able to serve our communities through richer and more diverse curricula. We will also be able to meet the needs of a broader range of businesses across a wide range of industries locally, hence enhancing their competitiveness and success. This presents an opportunity for us to work with Ian Pryce and colleagues across TBCG to enhance learning and progression for students and create advancement possibilities for our staff.”
Allan Schofield, Chair of The Corporation at TBCG: “The Bedford College Group is delighted to have been selected as the merger partner for Central Bedfordshire College. It brings together the two largest post-16 educators in the local authority area and creates a financially strong institution which will allow us to expand the educational opportunities to everyone in Central Bedfordshire and Luton.” Ian Pryce, Chief Executive TBCG: “We are really looking forward to working with Ali Hadawi and his team. We already have a great relationship with the College but this will allow us to deepen and build that relationship to create something very special.”
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£15k fundraising milestone for local Sue Ryder hospice CHRISTINA Boxall, Judi Hobbs and Geraldine Clarke have raised more than £ £16,359.82 for Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice in Moggerhanger, Bedfordshire, in honour of Christina’s late husband Tony who received care there – exceeding their target amount of £15,000. Having seen first-hand how invaluable the care the charity provides is, Christina said: “I wanted to do something to pay Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice back. They were marvellous to me and Tony when he was seriously ill. “I just knew with the lockdown it was going to be tough for the charity. There were no shops open. Sue Ryder’s carers had been a really good support, not just for my husband, but for me too. They were lovely to us, I just couldn’t fault them. I wanted to do something in Tony’s memory. I feel like I am doing it for him.” The women earned the endearing nickname ‘Hearts for Moggerhanger’ after a complete stranger commended their kind hearts, by addressing an envelope to the trio with the moniker. Over the course of the last two years, the Hearts for Moggerhanger crew along with the help of good friends Ruth Norman and Sheila Springell, as well as their friend’s husbands John and Tony have hosted a number of successful raffles, clothes sales and market stalls to raise all-important funds for the charity. On the help they received in their fundraising efforts, Christina said: “We didn’t expect to raise so much money. We really couldn’t do it without the fantastic support of Potton town and our local
community. We have had help from lots of businesses and shops, and we want to say a big thank you to everyone for their support. A special thank you to the team at Tysoe’s – they kindly act as a collection point for donations.” Christina’s husband Tony died in December 2019. He received support from Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice for around two years before he died and stayed at the hospice several times to receive inpatient care for a short time. While he was there, staff on the specialist inpatient unit helped to manage his symptoms. Tony was also cared for at home by the Sue Ryder St John’s Palliative Care
Hub team. When speaking about the care her husband Tony received from Sue Ryder and her initial apprehension around hospices, Christina said: “At first, I didn’t want to go to [the hospice] because I thought a hospice was where you go to die. But it’s not just about dying; I want more people to know that. I want people to know that the hospice is there to help people who are really struggling with life-limiting conditions. They offer support with stabilising symptoms and help make people as comfortable as possible. They also give support to family members. “The first time Tony went to
the hospice, I followed the ambulance. I cried all the way there. I remember getting out of the car and following him in, thinking ‘I’m going to lose him now’. He lived for another two years. The staff were so friendly; they were lovely. They made it a home from home. That’s so much what you want.” “I would also like to thank the wonderful Palliative Care Hub team at Sue Ryder St John’s. They made it possible for Tony to pass away at home with me, which was his most wished for thing. I couldn’t have done it without them. They are truly marvellous.” Jo Landucci, Senior
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Community Fundraiser at Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice said: “We are extremely grateful to the Hearts for Moggerhanger trio – Christina, Judi and Geraldine. They have done such a wonderful job raising valuable funds for St John’s Hospice where they will make such a huge difference to helping us support others with life-limiting conditions. Thank you on behalf of everyone at the hospice, your
ongoing support is truly appreciated.” “If you are inspired by the Hearts of Moggerhanger’s story, we have wide range of exciting fundraising challenges up for grabs in 2022. If you fancy taking part, get in touch with the hospice’s fundraising team: 01767 642 412 or email stjohnsfundraising@sueryder.org www.sueryder.org/stjohn
Council handing out rural grants
THREE rural organisations are to share £26,000 following successful applications for a council grant. Bedford Borough Council’s Rural Grants are only be awarded to assist with funding for capital projects. Applications can be made by a rural organisation, or by a rural parish council, and must to be in the interests of their local inhabitants. On Tuesday, May 17, the Rural Affairs Committee considered three applications. Lee Phanco, chief officer assessment, application & business support, said: “The first request is from Stagsden Parish Council, which is for a contribution towards the cost of repairs to the external wall at St. Leonard’s Church.” The request was for £16,500 towards the replacement church wall as there are concerns that the wall, which is next to a busy public pavement, is unsafe. Skipping ahead, Bedford mayor, Dave Hodgson, said: “I think the only one I’d have concerns about, but we’ve done some due diligence, is Turvey Abbey.
“The Olivetan Benedictine Sisters look to have a large amount of money, but it’s all tied up in pensions and property. This application was for £7,882 towards the restoration of a 200year-old historic clock. Cllr James Weir (Kempston Rural Ward) said the Olivetan Benedictine Sisters can’t spend any donations or earned money on historical artefacts. “Which is why I think they’ve put the application in,” he said. The mayor said that information was ‘useful’ and moved on to the third application. This was from Bolnhurst Old School Management Committee requesting £1,627.54 towards the provision of flood barriers to three external doors of the property. “I know that the Bolnhurst Old School had some issues last Christmas where some of the water run-off from the fields caused quite a lot of damage,” the mayor said. “So this just seems to be a very sensible thing to do.” All three requests were approved.
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Rt Revd Richard Atkinson – Bishop of Bedford To do my best to do my duty ‘To do my best to do my duty to God and to the Queen’. These words of the Promise that I took when a young boy scout remain with me. That sense of obligation and moral duty to do what is expected. The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee weekend will see celebrations across Bedfordshire. It will be an opportunity to rejoice in her seventy years as our Monarch, to give thanks for her reign and to celebrate our community life. To recognise the fruit of her dedication and service as she has done her duty. The obligations that she assumed on the death of her father. Speaking in her first Christmas Broadcast in 1952 to a nation that was still recovering from the war, the young Queen Elizabeth spoke not just of her own call to duty, but
the duty of us all: Many grave problems and difficulties confront us all, but with a new faith in the old and splendid beliefs given us by our forefathers, and the strength to venture beyond the safeties of the past, I know we shall be worthy of our duty. Now I suspect that ‘duty’ feels to many as a somewhat old-fashioned concept. In an age of heightened self-determination that idea of obligation can seem foreign. And yet we all have duties – those that come from being part of families, those of being citizens, the obligations of being good neighbours. To care for the weak and vulnerable is, for instance, I believe not one option among many but rather part of our fundamental responsibilities as a human being – a duty that is echoed in the great
faiths but exists independent of them as well. Jesus speaking to his disciples in Luke chapter 17 encourages them not to look for praise, but rather to say when they have done what is expected of them: We are unworthy servants, we have only done what we are bound to do – we have done our duty. This Jubilee let us give thanks for our Queen. Let us pray for her and for all that lies ahead. Above all let us recognise someone who has done her duty in a most remarkable way. She has owned the obligations upon her and lived them out with sacrificial living and godly courage. As we recognise that, may we too own our responsibilities, that we too may do our duty.
Dave Hodgson – Mayor of Bedford Looking forward to the River Festival It’s not long now until the River Festival’s welcome return on July 23 and 24. As you will recall we had to postpone the 2020 River Festival due the Coronavirus pandemic. This was not a decision that was taken lightly. Everyone involved in the River Festival is determined this year’s event will be the biggest and best yet! We will see the return of lots of the River Festival’s favourites, from the music stages and fun fair, the dragon boat and raft races on the river, and lots of stalls and activities to get involved with across the
Embankment, Mill Meadows and St Mary’s Gardens. For the first time in the River Festival’s history, Bedford High Street will be closed for the whole weekend to bring the fun and celebrations into the town centre. The High Street, sponsored by Bedford BID, will host the Festival of Motoring, with 100 vehicles on display. We also recently announced that the ‘BBC Music Introducing’ stage will make its first ever appearance at the Bedford River Festival. BBC Music Introducing has been there at the start of music careers for artists like Tom Grennan, James Bay, Griff,
George Ezra and many others. In the coming weeks the Council and BBC Music Introducing will announce how artists can put themselves forward to go on the BBC Music Introducing stage. The River Festival sees a quarter of a million visitors over the weekend and it will be really exciting to give local musicians and artists this platform to perform. We will be announcing more news and activities as we get closer to the big weekend, and you can find out more at https://riverfestival.bedford.gov.uk/ including how to get involved and participate in some of the many activities taking place.
Mohammad Yasin – MP Kempston and Bedford Queen’s Speech offers nothing on current challenges Member of Parliament for North East Bedfordshire
ADVICE SURGERIES Richard holds regular surgeries across North East Bedfordshire. If you would like to book an appointment, please call 01767 313385
This week I delivered my response to the Government’s legislative agenda for the new Parliament in the Queen’s speech. It revealed a government totally out of ideas on how to get the country out of the mess it has gotten us into. I spoke on the topic – ‘Making Britain the best place to grow up and grow old’. It is not inevitable that a whole generation of young people are held back by the crisis of the pandemic – it is a choice by the Conservatives to deprioritise children’s recovery and their futures. Under this Government inflation is the highest it’s been for 40 years, living standards have plummeted to 1950s levels and life expectancy is falling. ONS figures show the inequality gap in the least deprived areas is growing even wider. Almost one in three children in Britain now live-in poverty.
Despite all of this, the Government have the temerity to talk about ‘Levelling Up”‘ It’s merely rhetoric - I saw nothing in the Queen’s speech that will deliver it. Nothing the Prime Minister has announced in his legislative agenda will address living standards or the cost-ofliving crisis, help people pay for childcare or meet the unmet care needs of over a million older people. The Levelling Up White Paper does not include clear measures to tackle child poverty, children’s health inequalities or help the frightening numbers of children and young people waiting for mental health support. Labour is ambitious for every child. Our Children’s Recovery Plan would be delivering new opportunities for every child to learn, play and develop now. We would be pushing on with plans for 6,500 new
teachers and ongoing professional development to improve teaching and learning, and we would ensure every young person leaves education ready for work and ready for life, with professional careers advice and work experience for all. And talking of children’s futures – the Queen’s speech totally failed to deliver the urgent action required in response to the climate and nature emergencies. We desperately needed the government to tackle the root cause of our energy and climate security problems and bring in legislation to speed up the transition from fossil fuels to renewables. Generations are being let down by a government too short-sighted to plan for a more hopeful future, but instead focuses their attentions on themselves and how to keep the Prime Minister in office another day.
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JUNE 2022 —
13
EMR refresh their trains
Sytner Mercedes-Benz fast track to jobs EAST Midlands Railway (EMR) has begun a project to refresh the interiors of its Intercity fleet – including replacing seats, toilet interiors and covering surfaces in a new special anti-bacterial cleaning product. The work will be carried out at Derby’s Etches Park depot and will see 5300 seats being refreshed, including new back covers, seat cushions, headrests and arm rests – while a number of seat covers will also receive deep cleaning by a specialist company. The toilet refurbishment in all 27 of EMR’s Class 222 Meridian trains has already been completed, providing a series of improvements to give a better experience for customers. These improvements include walls being painted, a new vinyl applied to door panels, the replacement of damaged fixtures, as well as the Call for Aid units and mirror surrounds being resprayed. Sinks have also been polished and buffed, while the baby changing areas have also been improved. As part of this work, EMR will be the very first train operating
company in the uK to use a new cleaning product which makes surfaces easier to keep clean and works continuously to reduce the growth of bacteria. The Cotech Biosafe product, which includes a special technology called Microban antimicrobial protection, will be applied to toilet surfaces to enhance hygiene and bring piece of mind to customers. Cotech Biosafe is the longestlasting coating of its kind currently on the market, protecting a surface for around seven to 10 years and does not require monthly reapplications like other similar products. The special product is supplementary to the regular cleaning programme that is already in place on the trains. Neil Bamford, Fleet Director at East Midlands Railway, said: “As we await the introduction of our new Aurora fleet, we want to ensure our current Intercity trains offers customers a clean and inviting interior. “Following an audit, we have identified a number of seats that fall below our standards, and we are working hard to replace them.
“Likewise, we wanted to refresh the toilets and make sure we are using the latest products available on the market to maintain cleanliness.”
GREAT job opportunities working on MercedesBenz vehicles are coming down the track for students from The Bedford College Group thanks to a relationship with the Sytner Group. The company took along Electric and Hybrid cars and a recently qualified apprentice to talk through career path-
ways at the college’s Advanced Automotive Technology Centre in Brunel Road, Bedford. Students will be applying for jobs and others will be given work experience to get them in the fast lane. For more information about careers in the industry go to bedfordcollege.ac.uk
Mayor Dave announces Solar Panel Scheme MAYOR Dave Hodgson has announced a scheme to encourage residents to come together to invest in renewables through a groupbuying scheme for solar panels and battery storage – ‘Solar Together Bedfordshire’. Bedford Borough Council is working in partnership with Central Bedfordshire and Luton Councils as part of Solar Together Bedfordshire. Solar Together Bedfordshire (www.solartogether.co.uk/bedfordshire) helps homeowners feel confident that they are paying the right price for a high-quality installation from pre-approved installers. This innovative scheme builds on four years of highly successful Solar Together programme run across the uK. To date Solar Together has delivered over 7,000 installations and over 130,000 tonnes of avoided lifetime carbon emissions. Bedford Borough residents can join the group-buying scheme which offers solar panels with optional battery storage and EV charge points, as well as retrofit battery storage for residents who have already invested in solar pan-
els and are looking to get more from the renewable energy they generate as well as increase their independence from the grid. It is free to register and there is no obligation to go ahead with an installation. Bedford Borough Council is working in partnership with Central Bedfordshire and Luton Councils, alongside inde-
pendent experts iChoosr, to make the transition to clean energy as cost effective and hassle-free as possible. Mayor Dave Hodgson said “Solar Together Bedfordshire gives local residents the opportunity to come together in a group-buying scheme, to get high quality solar panels at the right price, with
installation from pre-approved installers. “At this stage, we are inviting people to register online to become part of the group. There is no obligation to go ahead with the installation. “So if you are interested, please visit www.solartogether.co.uk/ bedfordshire.”
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14
— JUNE 2022
Farmers meet DEFRA officials
TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
More chance of seeing Elvis! by John Guinn
BEDFORD’S deputy mayor has told the area’s primary health provider that people have more chances of seeing Elvis than their GP. On Tuesday, May 17, 2022, the council’s Rural Affairs Committee was updated on healthcare provision in the borough, particularly in the rural communities, by the Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Clinical Commissioning Group. During the meeting, Bedford mayor, Dave Hodgson, said the borough is the sixth-worst in the country in terms of number of GPs per population – one GP for over 2,700 people. Building on that point, deputy mayor councillor Charles Royden, said: “In Bedford there’s probably more chance of seeing Elvis than seeing your local GP.” Councillor Royden (LibDems, Brickhill Ward) spoke about a resident who had to queue outside the surgery from 7.40am to try to get an appointment as he couldn’t get through on the phone. “What we’re having now is people having to go to
ON Thursday, May 12 at a meeting organised by Richard Full MP, over 30 local farmers and land managers met at Scald End Farm, Thurleigh, with officials from the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Since leaving the European Union, the agriculture sector has seen an enormous number of changes, not least the departure from Direct Payments under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and the move to ‘Public Money for Public Goods’ and the introduction of the UK’s bespoke Environmental Land Management schemes
private GPs, we’re getting a two-tier health service in Bedford. “If they can’t see the GPs then they’re not getting into hospital, and not getting the treatment that they need for all kinds of things, which could be sorted out much more quickly if that can get an early diagnosis and early treatment,” he said. David Picking, BLMK CCG’s head of primary care development and transformation for practices in Bedford Borough and Milton Keynes, replied that the deputy mayor could email him (if the resident agrees) if he has concerns that a resident isn’t being treated, or isn’t getting the treatment they deserve, “You won’t be alone in that, there are a number of councillors that email me directly and I’ll do my best to find out what the problem is,” he said. Councillor Royden said that Mr Picking could be overwhelmed with emails as it won’t be hard to find residents who are having difficulty in seeing their GP. The mayor added: “Then we’ll have a three-tier [health] system, those that have access to David Picking, those that can go private, and those that haven’t got access to David Picking.”
to replace the CAP funding. The large turnout highlighted the thirst for information that exists in the rural community of North East Bedfordshire. With increasing input costs in agriculture, steps have been taken to assist farmers with cash flow, however there are many questions surrounding the new schemes such as what measures farmers will need to take, what level of funding will be available for each scheme, how the application process will work and when payments will be delivered? The RPA and Defra officials delivered presentations on the changes and answered the many questions posed by the audience.
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We have an exci*ng day out planned for all the family as we open our gates as part of the Open Farm Sunday (OFS22) na*onal ini*a*ve sponsored by LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming). It’s your chance to find out where your food comes from and to see how a farm operates in the context of the wider environment and your community. There will be plenty to see and do including a large display of farm machinery, lorries *pping grain, livestock, wildlife displays, farm walks and trailer rides, hog roast, tea and cake tent, various food producers, ice cream and lots more! See you there! NO NEED TO BOOK— FREE ENTRY AND PARKING LOTS TO DO FOR ALL THE FAMILY & PICNIC AREA ALL FUNDS RAISED WILL GO TO CHARITY NO DOGS ALLOWED ON SITE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND UPDATES, VISIT OUR WEBSITE
JUNE 2022 —
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15
out & about
A summer full of top music Thursday, July 28, Simply Red will headline the first show, supported by the amazing Lisa Stansfield. Few bands have enjoyed the success and longevity of Simply Red. With over 60 million albums sold worldwide, five UK number ones, hit albums and over a billion views on YouTube, Simply Red remain one of the UK’s most successful bands. Lisa Stansfield has three BRIT Awards, two Grammy nominations, and enjoy a string of hits, including worldwide number one smash hit, ‘All Around the World’, on her way to selling over 20 million albums. A proven talent, Lisa Stansfield is sure to get the crowds up and
“Sweet as a nut”
Family Fun Day and Dog Show Sunday September 11 Contact: (01234) 823033 or enquiries@miltonernestgarden centre.co.uk
Music and theatre at St Paul’s: Tuesday lunchtime recitals Go Compare insurance adverts, Wynne is a professionally trained opera singer with over 25 years’ experience, Singer and actor Marisha Wallace is a Broadway and West End sensation, best known for starring in Something Rotten, Dreamgirls, Waitress and more recently in the role of Motormouth Maybelle in Hairspray! Support acts to open the show include Rock Choir, Pilgrims Pre Prep School and singer songwriter Joe Bygraves. You can bring your own picnics to this show and as well as an amazing music bonanza it is accompanied by a stunning laser show and finishes with a firework spectacular. If you are an NHS worker you can also qualify for a ticket for just £1.00! www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk
Daley’s
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Horticultural Show Bank Holiday August 29
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Friday June 3 in Bedford Park will be none other than the pioneers of UK Ska and one of the most influential and seminal acts in British History – ‘The Specials’. Influential, important and exhilarating live, ‘the Specials’ are a band embedded in this country’s DNA. It is impossible to envisage the musical landscape without them, from the startling, angular Gangsters in 1979 to their swan song, the epoch-making Ghost Town in 1981. They infused ska with punk, homegrown political anxiety with wider issues. Founded in 1977 the Specials were at the forefront of the 2 Tone movement, changing the face of UK music in the 1980s with seven successive top 10 singles between 1979 and 1981 including number one hits like ‘Too Much Too Young’ & ‘Ghost Town’. Saturday June 4, Tom Grennan Tom Grennan’s success has been closely followed by his hometown Bedford fans, and on Saturday, June 4, he will headline his first major outdoor concert in Bedford Park! Supporting Tom will be Brit and Mobo award winner Ella Eyre. Plus in a real celebrton of Bedford talent – The Wholls and The Scruff have also been added to the line up! Both bands are friends of Tom and they have all supported each other’s careers for many years. A brilliant Bedford heavy line up awaits! Tom Grennan comments “Bedford I’m coming for you! I am so excited to be headlining back in my home town! Home is where the heart is and I’m going to give you all the love and energy I can. I can’t wait to perform live for you, it’s going to be one hell of a party. Big Love!!” Tickets from: www.bedfordpark concerts.co.uk/events/
dancing. Broadway star Marisha Wallace will also support the show! Friday, July 29, sees Café Mambo Ibiza ‘In the Park’, touching down from the White Isle! The legendary Ibiza brand will bring thousands of dance music fans together for an unforgettable experience under the stars as they relive the massive tunes that provided the soundtrack to generations of Ibiza adventures. Serving up the classics are some of the biggest DJs in dance music; these include Mark Knight, Amine Edge & Dance, Lovely Laura & Ben Santiago and Todd Terry along with support from Bedford DJ, Mark Russell. Moving onto Saturday, July 30, which will see the modfather himself Paul Weller headlining. As frontman of The Jam, Weller spearheaded the Mod revival in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s, scoring a string of hits, including Going Underground and A Town Called Malice. He had further success with the blue-eyed soul music of the Style Council in the mid to late ‘80s, before establishing himself as a solo artist. Supported by Richard Hawley and Andrew Cushin, it’s proving to be a popular show and is close to selling out. Sunday, July 31, the Bedford Park Concerts series ends with a firm family favourite show ‘Bedford Park Proms – Part 2’ and it’s Bedfordshire’s most prestigious al fresco Proms event. The Welsh opera star and BBC radio presenter Wynne Evans will be the headline vocalist along with Broadway and West End sensation Marisha Wallace. Wynne Evans is regularly singing to millions for the TV advertising campaign that has made him a household name as the spoof opera star Gio Compario. Although a spoof opera star in the
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at St Paul’s Bedford. June-July, 1pm. FREE with retiring collection in aid of church funds. Suggest min £5.00. Monthly Saturday organ recitals 12 noon, also FREE with retiring collection in aid of church funds. Contact: St Paul’s Church, St Paul’s Square, Bedford, MK40 1SQ. Tel: 01234 340163 Email: admin@stpaulschurchbedford.org.uk JUNE – 7th Yiyan Shen, Piano. 9th ExTRA SPECIAL 8pm Magellan and Elcano: Around the World: A play with music and Spanish dance. £15 https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/cather ine-of-aragon-festival-226039. The play commemorates the 500 year anniversary of the first circumnavigation of the globe; a remarkable achievement which changed the world forever. 10th ExTRA SPECIAL 8pm Carmen by Iberica de Danza (prestigious Madrid based company). Carmen vs Carmen uses the richness of Spanish dance to immerse us in a fascinating world of womanhood, freedom and the female soul. £24 Sat 11th Organ recital 12 noon with Ian Runnells, Director of Music at St Paul’s, Bedford 14th Simon Davies, Classical Guitar 21st Catherine Rose, Horn and Wind Instruments 28th Alis An, Piano. JULY – 5th Lorraine Augustine, Piano. 12th Six on Sax. Contact: Ann Collett-White, Tel: 01234 266839 Mobile: 07989 837819
Sandy Historical Research Group: Southill
House, Southill, Bedfordshire, SG18 9LJ. Wednesday 8th June, 10.30 am – 12.45 pm Tea/coffee/biscuits at the start, and the opportunity to enjoy the gardens after the tour of the house – Prior booking essential. £15.00 per person with all monies going to the Wixamtree Trust which helps worthy Bedfordshire causes. Full details contact: Richard Barlow on 01767 226392 or email secretary@shrg.uk and places must be booked with Richard in advance To advertise your club, group or society in these columns please email your copy to: advertising@ rosettapublishing.com Please include a contact telephone number. These columns are for non-profit making organisations
16
— JUNE 2022
TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
pubs
comedy Castle Comedy’s putting on 2 huge shows in June Thursday June 9 – The Quarry Theatre, Bedford The headline act is ZOE LYONS. With a mixture of silliness, satire and caustic one liners she is one of the one of the UK’s favourite comedians. She is a regular on Mock The Week and has appeared on Live At The Apollo, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow (BBC1) and hosts her own teatime TV quiz show, Lightning! (BBC2). “Probably the most impressive British female comic on the circuit” The Skinny Opening the show is NABIL ABDULRASHID. He finished third in the 2020 series of Britain’s Got Talent and was awarded the ‘Golden Buzzer’ in the first round of the competition. David Walliams described both his performance and writing as “perfect”. He has gone onto appear on Live At The Apollo, Mel Giedroyc: Unforgiveable, Richard Osman’s House Of Games and Celebrity Masterchef. “A fresh comic voice… unapologetically funny” The Sunday Telegraph Saturday June 25 – The BIG June Show, The Weatherley Centre, Biggleswade An Edinburgh Preview Special from two of the best comedians in the UK! Each act will do a one hour set as they prepare for Edinburgh and their upcoming national tours. SIMON EVANS is one of the UK’s most respected and established comedians. His TV credits include Live at the Apollo, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, Mock the Week and Stand Up For The Week. He is the regular host of GB News Headliners, the show where comedians tackle the days top news stories. ★★★★★ “A Masterclass” The Scotsman GLENN MOORE is an Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee
THE
conclub
Refurbed pub shows promise
by Tony Hendrix
and one of the best and most prolific joke writers in the country. Glenn is a regular face on TV, having appeared on Mock The Week, Rob Delaney’s Stand Up Central and The Stand
Up Sketch Show. All shows feature full support from top UK comedians and Paul Revill will host the shows! Doors 7pm Show start 8.00pm. Tickets: www.castlecomedy.co.uk
THE
QUEENS HEAD MENU NEW
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Food served: Mon-Sat 12-2, 6-9 Sunday 12-4 See our Facebook page for upcoming events
HOTEL NOW OPEN Queens Head, Rushden Road, Milton Ernest MK44 1RU
Tel: 01234 822412
Mon-Sat Noon-11pm Sunday Noon-10.30pm
Bedford brewer Wells & Co have quite rightly decided to take back one of their flagship pubs The Pheasant on Kimbolton Road into their managed estate portfolio .The pub will now be run directly by the brewery and has been given a ‘brand new look’ which has certainly bought back long lost customers to the pub which bizarrely achieved the ranking as being Bedfords worst pub by Trip Adviser back in 2016! One of the main areas that took a thumping during the pandemic was the hospitality sector. Many pubs bars and restaurants up and down the country had virtually a full twelve months worth of earnings wiped from their books as the country came to a halt due to the COVID 19 Lockdowns. Some venues came out the otherside a bit financially battered but still fit enough to continue, whilst others came out totally financially crippled and unable to
open their doors as was the case with The Pheasant. The pub has now been fully refurbished and looks absolutely stunning, the garden area is amazing offering plenty of comfortable seating, exclusive heated sheltered smoking areas and a very distinct array of night time lighting. The new look inside boasts brand new signage accompanied by a unique warm modern decor, the food menu is new and offers some tempting mouth watering dishes with a traditional roast dinner served on Sundays. There is the typical range of Wells and Co award winning beers and Ales brewed locally. I popped in just after the grand public opening, the new staff I found both accommodating and friendly, I ordered a meal which was delivered pretty quickly and tasted amazing. The beer garden was heaving with happy customers lapping up the sunshine, so I gave that a wide birth and remained inside. This pub has been renown for hosting an exciting range of events and entertainment, quiz nights, karaoke and themed Disco nights to name a few which I understand will still continue. The pub is the latest to join 25 others as a Wells UK managed pub, Wells UK say they plan to reach 29 in total by the end of 2022.
KEMPSTON 01234 851120 Queen’s Jubilee Friday 3rd June 2.30pm Afternoon Tea and Pimms with music from
Summer Concert
DANNI BENTLEY
only £18 per person but this must be prebooked
At 6pm it’s CASH PRIZE QUEENIES QUIZ
8pm it’s KARAOKE TIME Don’t miss a full day of celebrations (Please note the carpark will not be in use from 12pm till 7pm on this day) Saturday 4th June A great general covers night with
KIRSTEN SWEET
RICKY
V.I.PEAS we can’t wait to have this amazing band back Saturday 25th June We welcome back the amazing
DOLLY BAILEY another favourite here Saturday 2nd July a wonderful night of soul and Motown
LAURA CHURCH
Monday 11th July 2022 7.30pm Kempston East Methodist Church Raising funds for
Myla’s Mission Refreshments and Raffle Tickets £6 and £4 concessions www.kempstonconcertband.com
BEDFORDSHIRE BuLLETIN
new to the conclub Saturday 11th June another new voice for you with the fantastic
Saturday 18th June it’s big band night with the one and only
JUNE 2022 —
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17
Children’s Theatre | Comedy | Theatre Dance & Physical Theatre | Poetry & Spoken Word Music | Film
Daxtonbury Festival is back 8/9/10 July 2022
With no event possible in 2020 or 2021 due to the pandemic, the team behind this boutique festival are now about to host “The best three day party in Bedfordshire” during the weekend of 8/9/10 July. Held on farmland near the village of Podington in North Bedfordshire, the festival features over 30 bands including local favourites such as Pearl Handled Revolver, The Workshop Boys, Lost For Words and Easydread together with the classic rock band Stray. Everyone involved with the festival – bands, organisers, volunteers and backstage crews etc – give their time for free in order to raise money for cancer charities. Originally just a friends and family barbecue, Daxtonbury has grown into a memorial to Chris Kelly, one of those friends, who passed away a few years ago. After the 2019 event the organisers were able to donate over £11,000 to help the fight against this awful disease Daxtonbury is totally about the chill and the vibe. Glastonbury it ain’t but then the ticket prices won’t leave you broke for the rest of the year, you won’t have to walk two miles to reach the main stage and the loos (probably) won’t overflow! This is a festival experience on an intimate scale. Music from mid-day to well past midnight, a chance to make a shed load of new friends and a weekend relaxing in beautiful surroundings. Together with an exciting line-up of live music there are high quality food stalls, beer tents, a cocktail bar and a unique range of other activities such as, kids entertainment, clay pigeon shooting, air gun shooting, welly wanging, street artists, craft stalls, line dancing, chain saw carving, massage, yoga, and a fantastic charity auction. On-site camping and car parking is free, glamping is an option and dogs and their well-behaved owners are welcome. This festival is about fun and goodwill and about contributing to a good cause. Festival-goers are invited to become part of the Daxtonbury family – people who will share the vision of a peaceful, family friendly event where nothing is left behind except footprints and where great memories are taken away. Some things are just too good to miss. To find out more and to buy tickets go to www.daxtonburyfestival.co.uk
Bedford’s largest performing arts festival returns
binge the fringe! book now
diary Bedford RSPB Local: As we Platinum Jubilee Picnic go into Summer our evening talks Party: 11am, Sunday 5th June give way to walks, until September when our talks resume. Thursday 16th June – Evening walk. Marston Thrift - meet at 7pm in the car park at the very end of MK43 0NY Wood End. (SP 972 412) Suitable for Experts and Novices, RSPB membership not essential. Contact: 07905199769
Biddenham Gardeners Association: Tuesday 21st June BEDFORDSHIRE BuLLETIN
2020 at 7.30, Biddenham Village Hall. “A portrait of a Victorian Garden” By Russell Bowes. Visitors very welcome Admission £5 per meeting for non members – includes Raffle & Refreshments www.biddenhamgardeners association.org.uk Contact:
Celebration service and Jubilee picnic party with free bouncy castles, games, glitter tattoos, music and more. Free event bring your own chairs and picnic. Bromham Village Hall Playing Field, Bromham, MK43 8JP Contact: office@bromham.org or visit www.bromham.org
Bedford Art Society Meeting: Friday, June 3, 7:15 for
7:30. Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford MK41 8EB. Jill Buckingham will be painting a portrait in soft pastels. All her life an artist, Jill has been “enthused, touched and excited by nature and humanity”. Jill is here to share that enthusiasm and excitement with you. Entry free for members, £5 for visitors. Contact Jean Paterson on 01234 307210 or www.bedsartsociety.co.uk for further information.
Bedford National Trust Association: The next meeting
will be our AGM at the Addison Centre in Kempston at 2.30 on June 21st. There will be the AGM, refreshments and a speaker for 30 minutes. Mike Muncaster will talk on “Gone for a Burton”. He has come as our speaker in the past and we always enjoy his talks. There is no admission charge for the AGM. Everyone is welcome. There is plenty of parking. For further information Contact: Robin Salter on 01234 261897
Jumble Sale: Kempston
Mothers union, With Refreshments. Transfiguration Church Hall, Bedford Road. 2-4pm, Saturday, June 18. Entry 50p. Contact: 01234 855819 Contact: www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk
Bedford Music Club:
Bedford Floral Art Society: Tuesday, June 7, at
7.30pm at the Addison Centre, Kempston when we are delighted to welcome back Gill McGregor with her floral demonstration entitled ‘Platinum Panache’. Visitors £7. Contact: www.bedfordfloralartsociety.co.uk
Tudor Reeds Folk Dance Club: Barn dance group meets
every other Wednesday 8-10pm, St Mark’s Church Hall, Brickhill. £2 inc refreshments Contact: Jenny 01234 217621t
Sandy Women’s Institute: Meets on the third
Tuesday of every month (except August) at Sandy Conservative Club, Bedford Road, Sandy. New members are always very welcome. Visitors are charged a small fee of £4. For further information contact: Ann Patterson 01767 680644.
Kempston Senior Citizens Club: DANCING, WHIST,
BINGO. Meets Wednesday 10am12noon Friday 10am-4.00pm, Centenary Hall, behind Kempston Town Hall, contact: Sheila Cobban, on 01234 347306
Bedford Folk & Acoustic Club: Acoustic and folk music round-the-room, every Thursday evening from 8:30pm at the Bowls Pavilion of Kempston Hammers Club, MK42 7BN. Musicians, singers and poets all welcome, at every level. Contact: us on facebook, or come and meet us at the Bowls Pavilion.
Yoga: Priory Methodist Church, Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ. 2pm Mondays Contact: June for details: juandhannigan@yahoo.co.uk
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TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
theatre
drink Gin Festival debuts this summer! Russell Park will come alive this summer with Bedfordshire’s largest outdoor Gin Festival on Saturday, June 25. The event will feature many local and national gin brands including Willow Tree, Hustle, Far Reaches and Black Bridge Distillery, plus craft beers, wines and much more. With bars, samplings, street food and live music, there’ll be something for everyone. Bedford’s craft beer shop Beerfly will be manning a craft beer bar – with a range of modern style beers from local brewers; Three Hills, Duration and
The 39 Steps
Sharnbrook Mill Theatre, Mill Road, Sharnbrook, 7.30pm June 14-18. “There are 20 million women on this island and I’ve got to be chained to you.” The award-winning Sharnbrook Mill Theatre transports you back to the 1930’s, when men smoked pipes, women wore hats and gloves, and nobody is as they seem! An energetic and manic cast of just nine actors will miraculously transform themselves, and their voices, into hundreds of characters, as you follow them on this fast-paced comedy parody play of the Alfred Hitchcock spy-thriller film, The 39 Steps. Marvel at their attempts to conquer many accents,
be amazed at the train scene, gaze in wonder at a dramatic plane crash, and get ready to clap the fantastic London Palladium performers. Will Richard Hannay ever be able to prove his innocence? Will the sheep get out of the way of the car? Just who is the man with part of his little finger missing? This witty and fast-paced whodunit is packed with non-stop laughs guaranteed to cheer you up… and yes, the handcuffs are real! Susan Moore, who is co-directing the play with Kim Arkle, said: “We have collaborated on bringing this zany, funny, death-defying, spy thriller/love story to the Sharnbrook Mill Theatre and we hope the laughter doesn’t lift the roof off (or maybe we do)!” Tickets: www.sharnbrookmilltheatre.co.uk
gardening
newcomers Baron Brewing. They’ll be serving a full range of hazy, hoppy, sour and stout beers to suit all palates. The ‘Talks & Tastings’ Tent will host meet-the-maker interviews with winemakers, breweries and gin producers, all on hand to talk through their stories and try a few tasters! Tim Edwards of Beerfly commented “Following the success of our Hops & Dreams festival a few years ago, we’re excited to have a bar at GinFest and open up the wonderful world of beers to a new audience. With the brewers on hand to talk through the beers it should make for a fun afternoon” Taste Bedford is providing hand-picked street food traders, a farmers market and local produce stalls. Street food includes the ever-popular smokery Feast, with their locally – sourced meats from Woburn Country Foods, Saf’s kitchen with Punjabi street food, award-winning Good Times truck with their grilled cheese sandwiches and for the first time since Covid, the little crepe truck, la Crepe Franglaise returns. Bedford’s favourite Foxy Wings will be collaborating with street-fooders Wabadubgrub, so you can find their famous spicy chicken in a unique mexican menu for the event. The farmers market will be buzzing- Bedfordshire Beekeepers always delight, plus look out for fruit and veg from Black Cat Farm Shop, fudge, flowers, cheese, oils and the scotch eggs are back! Bedford business newbies, SAY Doughnuts will be baking for the occasion too. Who could ignore the trend for interiors, so this year there’s an array of talented makers with craft stalls and kitchenalia including woodwork, pottery, metalwork, glassware and other homewares. Anne Harnan from TASTE said: “Curating the market is always exciting and we’re really pleased with this year’s traders – lots of friendly favourites with a sprinkling of new and unique stall holders. Taste is sponsored by Budgens of Bedford, supporting the community.”
with Milton Ernest Garden Centre
Stewart’s choice plants for June
O
by Maureen Catlin
uR tubs and hanging baskets are planted and starting to look really established so time to take a look at a few special treats to add to the summer garden. Stewart has been busy checking for gems that will enhance any planting scheme so here’s a few.
There are a lot more to follow through the summer months. Hardy perennial Pinks are delightful little evergreens that require very little maintenance. They are very suitable for our local alkaline clay soil at the front of a sunny border where they will flower endlessly from spring until autumn. The single or double flowers are loved by the
pollinating insects in an amazing array of colour combinations with a distinct sweet clove scent. A vase of these flowers will perfume the entire house. Remove the flowers as they fade to promote continual flowering and feed with tomato food. Stewart’s Choice is Dianthus Tequila Sunrise a compact variety with fantastically perfumed
single soft orange pink flowers with buff centres and deep pink markings. It is excellent to grow in pots or window boxes and Dianthus Coconut Sundae a smaller variety with silvery green leaves and short stems. The double very perfumed pure white flowers have claret red centres. Both vari-
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eties are excellent Osteospermums or the Cape Daisies have long lasting colourful blooms through the summer and into autumn. Some varieties are hardy enough to survive a British winter but should generally be treated as tender perennials like Geraniums. They are great container plants for a sunny patio and should be planted in John Innes Compost Number 2 or 3 with some grit added for free drainage. There is a great choice of varieties and colours the hardiest being the white or pink flower varieties. Feed with tomato food weekly and remove fading flowers to promote fresh buds. Stewart’s choices are Oesteospermum Stardust which is upright with purple pink single daisy flowers and yellow centres. The flowers last a long time attracting butterflies and bees. Oesteospermum Lady Leitrim is a large single daisy with pink mauve tones on white. It is easy to care for and will survive most winters. Cut them back a bit in late autumn and again in March before the new growth appears when flowering sometimes starts as early as April and does not stop until November. Hardy Fuchsias are another very long flowering sub shrub in an amazing range of colours from white pink red blue mauve and purple. They vary in size from Fuchsia Tom Thumb and Lady Thumb at 30cms, to grow in tubs, to Fuchsia Riccotonii with small purple and deep pink flowers at 1.2m for a shrub border. Fuchsias are ideal plants for shady places with compost enriched soil. Stewart’s Choice is Lady Thumb a little gem which forms a neat and bushy mound laden with pink and white flowers from June to October. Perfect to grow it in pots on a shady patio it is one of the hardier fuchsias. Protect the roots with a generous layer of mulch in autumn or move potted plants to a sheltered position in the garden
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during the worst of the winter weather. Fuchsia Dollar Princess is Stewart’s second choice, a bushy variety with lots of ruffled double purple flowers with contrasting cerise pink sepals from summer into autumn. It holds an RHS award for its excellent garden performance. A lovely compact specimen for a patio container or planted at the front of mixed borders. Stewart’s final choices are within the Dahlias which are tender herbaceous perennials that range in height from 20cms to 1.8m tall. They are sun loving plants that need lots of water, rich soil and feed but reward us by flowering nonstop from
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June to the first frost often now in December. The larger varieties all need support. The flowers are an amazing array of colour and form from tight pom poms to dinner plate size blooms and some with coloured foliage. A must exhibit for the Horticultural Show. Stewart’s choices are Dahlia Amazone a stunning plant only 60cms tall with masses of pink to red flowers held high above its compact foliage. Excellent for the front of a sunny border or in pots the flowers just keep on coming from summer right through to the autumn frosts. Dahlia Bishop of York is a rare hardy Dahlia with very dark foliage that is a perfect foil to the bright yellow flowers. A late source of pollen for the bees. So Stewart what’s next for July.
Fresh Grimsby fish supplied daily, comprehensive range of fish to suit all tastes. And now fresh fruit and vegetables, bread and meat from the Shires Farmshop Why not phone your order through or come and see us at Milton Ernest Garden Centre and pick our brains – we are here to help. FREE LOCAL DELIVERY
To order call: 07563 581483 docklandsfish@gmail.com @docklandsgrimsbyfish
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TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
Last game full of excitement
sport by Michael Jarman-Webb
GARY Setchell’s target at the start of the season was to get the team into a playoff position and win promotion if possible.
As the season went on promotion looked increasingly likely, and an undefeated league run that stretched from November to the end of the season ensured no other team was close as Bedford comfortably
topped the league by ten points by the close of play.
Promotion has been a long time coming for the Eagles faithful, but they were rewarded with a season they won’t forget for a very long time, as the team
Rory McAuley scores the fourth goal in a five goal thriller over Plymouth Parkway.
Dan Walker scores the first of five goals in the last game of the season.
statistics stood out from the opposition – most goals scored, best defence, most clean sheets, top scorer and largest average gate were all accolades that the squad earned on their way to promotion. Not content with winning the league, they went on to beat Plymouth Parkway, winners of the Southern League Division 1 South, in what proved to be one of the more exciting matches of the season. The team turned around a halftime score that saw them trailing 1-3 to a full time 5-3 win, meaning a second piece of silverware for the season. Already thoughts are turning to next
campaign and life in the Southern League Premier Central, that will see the return of old rivalries such as Hitchin Town and AFC Rushden & Diamonds, as well as new challenges such as Kings Langley, Coalville Town and Tamworth. Setchell himself has committed himself to the club and will be hoping to keep much of the squad together, with a few key additions that will be revealed in the coming weeks. Before the season get underway a series of preseason matches will take place, starting with our groundshare partners Biggleswade FC on Saturday, July 2. Also announced are Stotfold
away on Friday, July 8, Peterborough Sports home on Tuesday, July 12 and AFC Dunstable away on Saturday, July 30.
Supporters are reminded that season tickets for the new campaign are on sale now. All who purchase their tickets before May 31, will get them at last season’s prices and gain free admission to all home pre-season friendlies. You can get yours now by visiting the Eagles ticketing website at: https://bedfordtownfc.ktckts.com/
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