BEDFORDSHIRE
ONLINE EDITION
Thursday July 5, 2018
Who newt? Central Bedfordshire Council has been chosen as the base for the country’s first ever newt Officer. Great crested newts are protected, and surveys indicate that they are present in about a third of Central Bedfordshire ponds, higher than the national average. If a proposed planning development is within 500m of a pond, great crested newts become a consideration for planning applications. that’s where the newt Officer steps in. Speaking about the new scheme, Councillor nigel Young, executive Member for regeneration at Central Bedfordshire Council, said: “the
council takes its responsibilities to conservation very seriously. Great crested newts are protected under both UK and european legislation. Surveys show that there is a healthy population here in Central Bedfordshire, so it’s great that we have the first ever newt Officer based alongside our officers, to help developers and builders meet their legal obligations to this important species of wildlife. We have always looked to support new initiatives and approaches to delivering the growth we need, while ensuring the natural environment is protected.” newt Officer, Indea Chawk
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#saveourtown
Campaigners bowled over by level of support for ‘parkrun’ the campaign to make luton a better place made further strides when nearly 400 runners gathered at the town’s Wardown Park to take part in a special #saveourtown parkrun on Saturday morning.
The community group hosted the event to show the overwhelming support for the proposed Newlands Park and Power Court developments. It is believed that the run
CLICK O T HERE TE DONA town r #saveou
by Geoff Cox
boasted the second-highest attendance in the history of the Wardown parkrun, with runners of all ages coming together from across the town and beyond to give their time to the cause. There were queues at the finish line as people signed up to find out more about forthcoming events, while campaign ambassadors helped give out balloons, stickers and leaflets. The printing of these has only been made possible thanks Continued on page 3
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#saveourtown Continued from page 1
from the worlds of sport and music are continuing to add their support for the two developments, which are due to be considered by Luton Council’s development control committee next month. Luton Town Football Club manager nathan Jones and Hatters legend Mick harford, currently the chief recruitment officer after serving the club as a player and manager, are featured on short videos promoting the campaign. Luton-born former England cricketer Monty Panesar offers words of support on another #saveourtown video made at a charity event at the weekend. Backing has also been given by singer/songwriter Paul Young, who was born in Luton and went to school in the town, and Hatters celebrity fan Cerys Matthews, a founding member of Welsh band Catatonia.
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to generous donations made to the campaign’s ongoing crowdfunding campaign. nigel Green, #saveourtown chairman, said: “We’re completely overwhelmed by the sheer number of people who came out on a hot Saturday morning to support us. “Yet again, we’ve demonstrated just how many people care about the Power Court and Newlands Park developments and the future of our town. “Each week we’re growing and each week we’re showing how vital the proposals are for the regeneration in Luton. “I’d like to say a big thank you to everybody who came down to join us, and a big thank you to everybody who has donated to the campaign so far. It simply wouldn’t be possible without you.” Well-known names and faces
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Skate park back action
the former Sandy skate park on Sunderland road recreation Ground was reopened on Saturday, June 30, 2018. now called the Bedfordshire Skating School & Wheels Club, it was formerly opened by Pastor Michael Sijuwade and his wife, Ola, from the Sandy Community Church. the club has received support from Sandy town Council and is looking for local businesses to come forward and help with sponsorship to fund new equipment. the reopening has come just in time for the school summer holidays and given the weather recently, usage is expected to be high. the club provides all safety equipment, skates and skateboards. riders may bring their own scooters but they must be in good condition. If there are any experienced riders out there who would be willing to share their expertise the club would love to hear from them.
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Wixam parents charged with infant’s murder
the parents of a two-monthold girl have been charged with murder following her death in Wixams, near Bedford. Bedfordshire Police were alerted by the east of england ambulance Service to reports of concern for the welfare of a baby at an address in Wixams, at approximately 6am on tuesday, June 12, 2018. Police officers attended and the child, harper Denton-eves, was taken to hospital where she died shortly afterwards. an investigation was subsequently launched by the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and hertfordshire Major Crime Unit. Cherinea Denton, 33, and Kevin eves, 36, both of nightingale Court, Wixams, Bedford, were charged with murder and causing or allowing the death or serious injury to a child. Both were remanded in custody following an appearance at luton Magistrates’ Court on tuesday, July 4, 2018.
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Who newt? from Barton-le-Clay in Bedfordshire, is working alongside the council’s planning and ecology teams. Indea is responsible for raising awareness amongst developers and planners of a new licensing scheme for newts. Central Bedfordshire Council has been granted a district licence for great crested newts, as part of an initial regional conservation scheme that is delivered by her employers, natureSpace. Indea will be working with the council’s planning officers and others from six nearby authorities and a newt conservation body, to offer developers a quicker and easier way to meet their legal obligations to protect and conserve great crested newts. With a biological sciences degree and background in teaching science, Indea is well placed to carry out the role of a newt Officer, and is loving every minute of her new job, as she explains: “When I saw the job advertised, I knew it was perfect for me: it enables me to work closely with nature, making a real difference to conservation. I am learning so much more about our native species and wildlife.” “I will be advising planners and developers about the scheme, and making sure than anyone who isn’t in the scheme is adhering to the planning and legal requirements. at the moment I am spending a lot of time liaising with the council’s planning team, and, of course, the ecologists who are out on site digging new ponds and creating high quality habitats to support newt conservation.” the new alternative newt licensing route scheme is fully supported by the government, and is scheduled to roll out nationwide over the next few years.
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Man charged following Bedford altercation
a Man from Clapham has been charged after an altercation in Bedford town centre on Monday, June 25, 2018, which left another man with stab injuries. adam Gunning, 20, of Cody road, was charged on tuesday, July 3, 2018, with grievous bodily harm (GBh) with intent, affray, threatening a person with a blade, theft and criminal damage. he appeared in court on Wednesday, July 4, 2018, and was remanded in custody.
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Luton’s Collette is a winner in World Skills competition It technician Collette White, of luton, continues to be a World Class operator. She joined the line-up of winners at a World Skills regional Competition held at Bedford College – just in time for International Women in engineering Day InWeD.org.uk Bedford College has top team of women in the Computing Department and elsewhere in engineering (training co-ordinator at Bedford College’s Brunel Centre is Dawn Fitt is Past President of the Women’s engineering Society which celebrates its centenary in 2019 WeS.org.uk at this most recent event on June 22nd Bedford College, with its industry standard It facilities, hosted a multicollege competition led by toby Bell, Partner in Competitions for worldskillsuk.org the winners now wait until august to hear if they have made it through to the next stages of World Skills competition at the neC Birmingham 2018. Collette made it through to that stage in 2017 winning a bronze medal. Paula hobday said: “We have a great
Pictured right: Collette earlier with Head of Computing Paula Hobday and TES Teacher of the Year national award-winner Judith Larsen.
track record of our computing students getting through to the final competitive stages of the World Skills events. this demonstrates how each year we are providing training which keeps up with
the ever changing demands of industry.” Bedford College offers full and parttime computing course, higher education degree level learning and apprenticeships. www.bedford.ac.uk
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Bedford’s graphic designers match the best of the best For the eighth year running, Bedford College graphic design students have outmatched most UK and international universities in the annual YCN design competitions ycn.org offers young designers the chance to come up with creative ideas for international organisations such as adidas and AXA. Access to the YCN provides students with insights into the very latest trends
and allows our students to compete on the international stage. Bedford College Advanced Practitioner Jeffrey Tribe explained: “our graphic design courses now have a very established reputation for high levels of creativity and competition successes. “We are the only FE College in the UK to be represented at D&AD New Blood, a showcase to industry of the very best design talent from all over the UK, which takes place in the Truman Gallery, London in early July. Last year one of our students received a ‘Best in Show Award’ at New Blood, further proof of our status as a credible alternative to traditional universities. “our students can commence their studies at the age of 16 and progress all the way through to a BA in Graphic Design here at our Bedford campus. There is no longer an academic reason to move away from the area - we have all the commercial links and opportunities right here”. “In addition this year Alex Parsons studying for a Level 3 Graphics Diploma received first
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prize in a safety poster competition with a £500 prize. He like many others in his group have voted to continue their studies with us at he level.” This year four students were Commended and go forward to the Autumn awards ceremony at the Barbican, London:
Daniel rogers (Axa) aged 34 of Kempston originally trained at Bedford College as a motorcycle mechanic but after working in that and other industries in he decided to follow his heart and come back to retrain. “When I was at school there was no direction offered for my interest in this field, now I am hoping to find work doing something I love.” Sara Sayer (Axa) Like Daniel, Sara’s work was exhibited at the Edwardian Arcade showcase in Bedford Town Centre in June. Curtis reeve (Arts Fund) aged 22 of Sandy left school at 16 and worked in insurance. Now he is hoping to complete his BA (Hons) degree and work in a London agency. Look out for the signature colour of yellow in his work. Jay Larano (Dogs Trust) aged 21 of Bedford came to the UK from the Philippines with his family when he was aged nine. He is staying on for his third year at Bedford College to complete his BA (Hons) degree – but will be looking for work experience when he visits the Philippines this summer.
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Luton man jailed for violent assault
A LUToN man has been sentenced to four years and three months in prison after violently assaulting a man suffering from debilitating medical conditions and threatening members of his family. Adam Hedges, 30, from Butterworth Path, Luton, was sentenced at Luton Crown Court on Friday, June 22, 2018, after being found guilty of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and firearms offences relating to threats to cause immediate fear of violence following a trial. Hedges had attacked the victim at his home in Luton in the early hours of December 23, 2017, beating him about the face and body with a metal baton and inflicting a deep bite mark to his hand. When the victims’ parents arrived at the address to offer aid to their son, they were threatened by Hedges, who was brandishing a loaded air pistol and the baton.
Appeal for witnesses after Luton shooting
BEDForDSHIrE police are appealing for witnesses after a man was treated for gunshot wounds following an incident in Luton on Tuesday July 3, 2018. Emergency services were called to a report of a 20-year-old man with gunshot injuries in Underwood Close, Luton at around 11.10pm. The victim was taken to hospital after suffering potentially life changing injuries as a result of the incident. Detective Inspector Aaron Kiff said: “This was a horrendous attack and I’m keen to hear from anybody who may have witnessed this incident. “I would urge anyone with information to come forward, as they may have something vital to our investigation. “I would like to reassure the public that we take reports of incidents involving firearms incredibly seriously and we are committed to apprehending those responsible.”
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Much valued loyalty in action
A in the same place for 45 years has been a different challenge every year for Maintenance “Maestro” Mike Newton. retiring in July from Bedford College, Mike, of ravensden, has witnessed the development from “Mander College” to The Bedford College Group of today. Director of Estate Diane Gamble said: “Mike has played a pivotal role within the Estates & Facilities Department especially within the maintenance section, but also with regard to the many physical changes to the make-up of the college and will be much missed by all his colleagues.” Since 1973 he has been involved in the growth of the college from the Cauldwell Street campus through the opening of the Motor Vehicle and Gas & Plumbing training centres in Triumph Way, Kempston, to the acquisition of Shuttleworth College, the opening of the IT Learning Centres, Brooks Hair & Beauty on the Bedford High Street and the creation of The Bedford Sixth Form in the old High School, Bromham road. “I’ve seen a tremendous range of changes over that time, probably which others will not, as no one seems to stay a job for that long these days. It’s been different all the
time though with always new challenges coming along,” said Mike. The latest development is the opening this autumn of the Advanced Engineering, Centre complete with robotics and more, on the Cauldwell Street campus. To mark his leaving, his colleagues arranged for him to lay the last slab on the roof level terrace of building – with the help of Ashe Construction. Work over, Mike won’t be rest-
ing easy. He has couple of classic cars which he has rebuilt from scratch and has friends and family who have “just got a little job they want me to look at.” Mike started his career working for his father in an unofficial apprenticeship as an electrical engineer: “It taught me to get the job done right the first time as going back to put it right was much harder work.” Ian Pryce CBE, Principal and
CEo of Bedford College for 20 years plus said: “It is said organisations don’t value loyalty any more. We definitely do. To have devoted 45 years of your life to serving your community in the high performance culture we have at the college shows how special Mike is. He has become part of the fabric and history of the college, and helped transform our campuses during his time with us. Everyone will miss him but he deserves his well-earned retirement.”
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Witness appeal after Leagrave incident
THE PoLICE are looking to speak with witnesses of an incident in Leagrave, Luton on Saturday evening June 30, 2018, which left two men in hospital with stab wounds. At approximately 7.50pm, we received reports of an altercation between a group of men in Leagrave High Street. officers attended the scene and two men were arrested in relation to the incident. Two other men, aged 19 and 20, were taken to hospital for treatment. Their injuries are not thought to be life threatening. Detective Inspector Craig Laws, investigating, said: “This is clearly a disturbing incident which happened during broad daylight at a busy time of day. “our enquiries are at an early stage and we continue to work to establish the details surrounding the incident. “We know there were a number of people in the vicinity at the time, including many cars travelling down the high street, and we would urge anyone who saw the incident, or who may have dashcam footage of the area at around 7.50pm, to get in touch with us.” officers will be undertaking high visibility patrols in Leagrave to provide reassurance to members of the public.
Incidents in Fond farewell to a Biggleswade favourite face of BCHA spark witness appeal
Sheila (centre) with Dick Wilkinson, Chairman of BCHA and Marie Taylor Chief Executive.
THE popular face of Bedford Citizens Housing Association (BCHA) has retired after almost 17 years of welcoming people to Charter House on Kimbolton road. Sheila Sweeting has been the receptionist and Administration officer for all of those years and has helped and welcomed many residents, families and visitors over the years including HrH Princess Alexandra when she visited last year. Marie Taylor, Chief Executive of BCHA summed up the feeling of staff and residents. “First impressions are so important for any organisation and over the years
Sheila has given a magnificent first impression for us. She has made friends with both residents and families and been a great help and support to so many. We will miss her very much but wish her a long and happy retirement.” “I have had a wonderful time working for BCHA”, said Sheila. “It has been more than a job to me. I have met so many wonderful people and had the privilege of learning about their lives and hearing their stories. It has been amazing.” Sheila plans to spend her retirement enjoying life as a new grandparent and with her family.
WITNESSES are being asked to come forward after two incidents in Biggleswade last week. The first incident happened at the train station on Monday, June 18, 2018. At midnight, a victim was pulled into an alleyway by two men, and forced at knifepoint to hand over a sum of cash. The offenders then made off after slashing the tyres on the victim’s bicycle. The second incident took place in South Walk on Thursday, June 21, 2018, just after midnight. A man was stopped by two men who told him to hand over money and his mobile phone. one of the offenders pulled out what is believed to be a knife and threatened the victim. He was able to get away without anything being taken, but suffered some minor injuries as a result of the incident. Sergeant rachael Welch, from the North rural Community team, said: “Knife crime is a priority for Bedfordshire Police and we’re keen to find the people who are responsible so they can’t target anyone else. As part of our investigation, we’re asking that anyone with any information comes forward. “In the meantime please be vigilant when out and about. Avoid walking in remote areas, sticking to well-lit areas wherever possible. Carry handbags close to your body with the clasp facing inwards, and keep your mobile phone and other valuables out of sight. If you think someone is following you, go to the nearest busy area and call police.”
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Luton man jailed for sexual offences A MAN from Luton has been jailed for 12 months for a number of sexual offences, including sending sexually explicit messages to a child and possessing indecent images of children. Nathaniel Leather, 24, of Hillcroft Close, was sentenced at Luton Crown Court on Thursday, June 28, 2018 after being found guilty of three counts of possessing indecent images of children, two counts of engaging in sexual
communication with a child, one count of possessing extreme images, and one count of causing a child to look at images of sexual activity. He will also be the subject of a Sexual Harm Prevention order (SHPo) for five years, which has conditions attached that he must adhere to following his release. on his arrest, his phone was seized and officers downloaded more than 2,000 images; including some of the most serious category.
CharItY QUIz nIGht MaYOr OF SanDY’S
the Mayor of Sandy, Cllr Michael Scott, will be holding a Charity Quiz night on Friday 6 July 2018 at Sandy Conservative Club, Bedford road, Sandy. The quiz will start at 7.30pm. Teams of 4 -6 people, £7.50 per head. Cash prize to each member of the winning team. Also ‘Stand up Bingo’ sponsored by The Window Doctor & Satchell’s Estate Agents.
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Have your say on Friendly this Friday the farms estate LUTON TOWN FC UPDATE
with Hitchin Town HATTErS boss Nathan Jones is looking forward to this Friday’s game against Evo-Stik Southern League Premier Central outfit Hitchin Town ahead of his side’s pre-season trip to Slovenia on Saturday. Town head to Top Field to start their pre-season schedule – with the game kicking off at 7pm. They then head to eastern Europe in the early hours of Saturday morning, where they will stay for a week. With the youth team already away at their Italian training camp, it leaves no questions to answer about whether it will be a first team squad taking on the Canaries – with the gaffer hoping the evening will prove a good opportunity for the players to see where they are at fitness wise. Jones believes they have returned in excellent shape, and he said: “It’s nice to get back at it. We like to go to Hitchin, there’s good people over there, we’ve got a good relationship with their club. “It’ll be good to give them a run out, give them 45 minutes each. But pre-season is a good time, especially early on when you’re finding your form and feet. It’s a really good gauge and that’s what Friday night will be. “The youth team are away and I doubt me, Harty, Mick or Joaquin will want to play! We’ll have a full squad going there. We’ve almost got a full squad in place anyway which is really, really positive for pre-season
anyway. Everyone will get a run out at some stage.” Whilst he is pleased with his side’s level of fitness, he believes there’s still a fair way to go before they are ready for Sky Bet League one action. “We don’t want them peaking yet, we’re going through longer distances at the moment,” he continued. “We will taper that – bring it down and sharpen them up and then be ready. We’ve got a good week to look forward to next week, but it’s important we get to optimum performance and optimum physicality safely. That’s the main thing.” The Welshman hopes the pre-season training camp in Kranjska Gora will not only provide an excellent facility to up the intensity in the build up to the start of the campaign, but also for the players to experience a different culture. He said: “Slovenia is a wonderful country and we are staying near the capital. The facilities we have this year are slightly better than last year. We try and improve it a little bit year-on-year. “They’ll get a bit of a cultural experience as well. I don’t want to go and lock them up in a mountain like rocky or rocky 4! I like them to have a little bit of a cultural experience. “I would have liked that – to go to a wonderful city and have a little bit of downtime and if they want to, to explore that. I think that’s an important part of these things.”
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CENTrAL Bedfordshire Council is consulting with the public on its draft Farms Estate Plan. The local authority manages around 4,700 acres of public farmland across the area, and is asking for feedback on its proposed approach to future management. A policy has been drafted to shape the way the local authority manages its farms estate over a 10year period. The farms are rented to 58 tenants across the Central Bedfordshire area, with a number of farms close to Flitwick, Maulden and Ampthill; to the east and south of Biggleswade and Sandy; and around Arlesey and Stotfold. Legislation means that local authorities have to provide chances for people with agricultural experience to farm. Alongside this, there are wider public benefits to the council owning the land. These include providing greater public access to the countryside; income for the council; greater control over the pace and type of development in rural areas; and encouraging initiatives to boost biodiversity and maintaining the look and feel of the countryside. Councillor Eugene Ghent,
Executive Member for Assets, said: “Councils have owned farms for decades, and they’re still important to us today. They allow us to control the growth of towns, and provide a source of income, food and employment. They also can be used to protect and conserve our natural environment and wildlife, and for greater access to the countryside. “We need a plan for our farmland to meet the challenges and opportunities over the next 10 years. our proposed approach is to have a more manageable smaller number of farms of a larger size, with more proactive management. We will also be looking at buying more land, to ensure we have at least 2,000 hectares on our estate for future generations to benefit from.” There will be an eight-week public consultation process on the draft farms estate plan. The public can have their say online at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/co nsultations. Paper copies are available from local libraries and leisure centres. The consultation runs until 5pm on 19 August. The public feedback will be considered by the Council’s Executive Committee on 9 october 2018.
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‘Jetpatcher’ comes to Bedford Borough
BeDFOrD Borough Council is investing in a brand new piece of equipment to help our Pot hole hit Squads to repair potholes even quicker and more efficiently than ever before. the ‘Jetpatcher’ road repair System will fix potholes and road defects quickly, efficiently and in a cost effective way. It is estimated to make repairs in around half the
time of other methods, with most repairs complete in under 15 minutes. the Jetpatcher works by blowing debris and water from the pothole, preparing the hole to prevent further water damage, filling the hole, and finally sealing the repair. this method is not just quicker, but works to deliver a long lasting repair.
Mayor Dave hodgson said: “this new Jetpatcher is an additional piece of equipment to help our Pot hole hit Squads work even more efficiently and the Council is constantly looking for new and better ways to keep our roads in good repair. I am pleased that this new piece of equipment is out on our roads, helping us to keep the Borough moving.”
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The Higgins Bedford celebrates five years! A MAJor transformation and successful redevelopment of The Higgins Bedford, following a £5.8million investment, has celebrated its fifth birthday. on 21st June 2013, The Higgins Bedford re-opened to the public in a transformed art gallery and museum located in the historic buildings of Castle Brewery and the adjoining Victorian family home, both built by the Higgins family in the mid-19th Century. Since then The Higgins Bedford has created and hosted a huge variety of exhibitions featuring world-renowned artists such as Turner, Picasso and Bawden, the ‘Break the Stigma’ exhibition around mental health, projects around local history such as the recent ‘Short Brothers’ Airships’ or the current ‘Celebrating Women of Bedfordshire’ exhibition, and displays of local children’s artwork. The Higgins Bedford has also become a community hub with activities for children during the school holidays, events and stalls with Bedpop and other partners, and hosting wellbeing activities including Mindful Sports. To mark the museum and art gallery’s fifth birthday, the Friends of The Higgins Bedford hosted a
‘Thank You’ event for the museum’s wonderful volunteers. on 21st June, the museum also received a ‘reminiscence Box’ from the retired Caribbean Nurses Association (Bedford) documenting the experiences of retired Caribbean nurses locally with photos, oral histories, and artefacts. Looking ahead, later this year the museum will have a project marking the 70th anniversary of the Empire Windrush ship arriving with immigrants from the Caribbean to England and is looking for volunteers to help collecting stories and experiences. Cllr Sarah-Jayne Holland, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture said: “Since the re-opening of The Higgins Bedford in its fantastic new home five years ago, our local museum and art gallery has put on interesting, fun and eyeopening exhibitions and events. It has become a must-see attraction right in the heart of our town centre. “I look forward to seeing what is still to come, and would like to say a huge thank you to the team at The Higgins Bedford, our various partner organisations both local and national, and of course to our wonderful volunteers.”
Bringing empty homes back into use
IN August 2014 there were 143 properties in Bedford Borough that had been empty for five years or more. By February 2018 this had been reduced to 97 – a reduction of 32%. Bedford Borough Council is working hard to reduce the number of empty homes in the borough. Empty flats and houses are a wasted resource and can have a negative impact on the environment and local community when they could be providing a home for a local person or family. Between 2006 / 2007 and 2017 / 2018, 1366 properties have been brought back in to use thanks to the direct intervention of the Council. Bedford Borough Council is actively encouraging owners of empty properties to bring them back into occupation by maintaining regular contact with them. The Council has £2.89 million to fund the compulsory purchase of empty properties where owners fail to take action. Monies received
from the sale of acquired properties are re-invested into the capital programme to enable the purchase of more empty homes which are then returned to occupation. Borough Cllr Colleen Atkins said: “We are pleased with the success achieved by our Empty Homes programme to date and will continue to focus our efforts on bringing empty properties back in to use. There is such a demand for housing and filling these empty homes also has a positive effect on the neighbourhood, reducing the blight empty properties can cause to local communities.” Individuals and local communities can play an important role in assisting the Council to bring empty homes back into use by reporting empty properties to the Housing Strategy Team via email: Housing.strategy@bedford.gov.uk or refer to the Council’s website via https://www.bedford.gov.uk/empty homes
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d r i n a g o K B e e s n ne l i r n s Su 4 Great North Road, Chawston, Bedford MK44 3BD
BOARDING KENNELS The Kennels are situated in a rural environment, yet with easy access from A1 (Black Cat Roundabout). Fully insulated and heated kennels with spacious outer run. Dogs walked three times a day, inspection welcome. Contact:
01480 215900 Visit: www.sunriseboardingkennels.com “…competitive prices and friendly advice” ● Timber & Building Materials ● Bathroom & Tile Showroom ● Landscaping & Paving Displays ● Hardware & Tool Supplies ● Brick Library & Matching Services
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out & about music a
The Pink Floyd Tribute Show – The Bell and Moon Tour 2018 Bedford Corn Exchange 7.30pm Friday 27th July
WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO SEE THEATRE OF HATE – JUST EMAIL THE ANSWERS TO: sally@thepadpresents.com Put “Theatre of Hate, competition” in the subject line. (1) What band did Kirk Brandon form after Theatre of Hate? (2) What is the name of the band’s latest album?
Theatre of Hate Bedford Esquires Following a sell-out show back in 2016 Kirk Brandon brings the original post-punk band Theatre of Hate to Bedford Esquires this July. In 1980, Kirk Brandon formed Theatre of Hate from the ashes of heralded punk band The Pack. Joining Kirk on vocals were notable punk musicians Stan Stammers and Luke rendall, along with old school friend, Steve Guthrie and Canadian born John “Boy” Lennard, who revolutionised the band’s sound with his haunting sax lines. Theatre of Hate’s debut double-A-side single, “Legion”/”original Sin”, topped the independent chart in 1980, and “Westworld”, their debut album, produced by Mick Jones from The Clash and released in 1982,held the number one position for 21 weeks. The single taken from the album, “Do You Believe In The Westworld?” has become an anthem and is still widely played in clubs and on international radio, as well as featuring on numerous compilation albums. Supporting the likes of The Clash & Ian Dury lead to Theatre of Hate headlining major venues across the UK & Northern Europe. Theatre of Hate imploded in 1982, with Kirk taking Stan forward to form Spear of Destiny, but the band has resurfaced over the years to play some very special shows. Having been asked by John Curd to join The Damned for a massive show at London’s infamous roundhouse in December 2014 the band once
Thursday 26th July, 7.30pm
again joined the fray. A short set of dates around the London anchor show attracted rave reviews, as did a 6 night night SoLD oUT run in December 2014. 2015 saw the band play two short jaunts across the UK in April and December both sets of dates wowed large crowds. During touring in 2014 and 2015 the band constantly recorded at oxygen Studios in Manchester, the first new studio album in 30 years KINSHI was released late last year on CD, Vinyl, Download & Dub. The 12 brand new songs are simply stunning. Part funded by a fan based private Pledge campaign this THEATrE oF HATE masterpiece is all set propel the band even further back into the spotlight. Kirk, Stan and John will be joined by current Spear of Destiny band member Adrian Portas (New Model Army) and Chris Bell (Hugh Cornwall) on drums to pay homage to the iconic ToH sound. Special guest support come from THE MEMBrANES the highly influential UK underground band. The Membranes recently reformed. In the 80s they developed a dark and discordant and wild music that was at the forefront of the Death To Trad rock UK underground scene. Fronted by John robb this is the band first appearance in Bedford for over 25 years. tickets priced £18 are on sale now from seetickets and are be available in person from Slide record Store, esquires Bar, Mario’s hair Design in Bedford & Vinyl revelations in luton.
The music of Pink Floyd as it was meant to be heard Pink Floyd’s recording career spanned almost three decades and, for its 10th Anniversary, The Floyd Effect has chosen two of the band’s most remarkable albums to create The Bell And The Moon tour 2018. Spotlighting the music of The Division Bell (1994) and a complete, unbroken performance of the iconic Dark Side of The Moon (1973), concerts will also include tracks from Wish You Were Here, Animals and The Wall, delighting Pink Floyd fans everywhere. The Floyd Effect is renowned for the remarkable accuracy with which it performs the music of Pink Floyd. All of the band’s members are top quality musicians with pedigrees that stretch across all manner of musical genres, and they faithfully recreate the music and intensity of a Pink Floyd concert without recourse to backing tracks, racks of computers, or other technological wizardry. Every note that you hear is played and sung by the band, making each concert a genuine ‘live’ experience; powerful, immersive and emotional. And, of course, the music is supported by a dramatic light show that incorporates the iconic circular screen, two sets of projections, smoke and lasers. No strangers to Bedford, The Floyd Effect is back by popular demand after a sell-out show in December 2016. Sit back and enjoy The Floyd Effect as the band takes you on a journey through the music of Pink Floyd. Unless you were there the first time around, it was never as real as this. www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk box office: 01234 718044.
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COUNTRY DAYS SUMMER HOLIDAY COURSES
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Our team of fully qualified staff provide a fun and educational timetable for young people aged 7 – 11yrs
• • • •
COURSE DATES:
ART SCIENCE SPORT & LEADERSHIP BUSHCRAFT
Course 1: Tuesday 14th & Wednesday 15th August Course 2: Thursday 16th & Friday 17th August
*Please note these courses repeat so choose one course only when booking
Come and join us for a breath of fresh air…
Time: 9.15am – 15.45pm each day Our Venue is a six-acre privately owned nature reserve in Felmersham FEE: £15.00 Transport included with pick up points in Kempston and Milton Ernest FREE PLACES For entrants who receive free school meals or pupil premium
IT IS EASY TO BOOK contact us now:
Tel: 07599 336532 Web: www.countrydays.net Email: info@countrydays.net
André Rieu 2018 Maastricht Concert Saturday 28 July, 7.00pm | Sunday 29 July, 3.00PM Set against the stunning medieval backdrop of the town square in André’s Dutch hometown, the spectacular Maastricht concert features the maestro in his element, along with his 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra, sopranos, tenors and very special guests.
Box office: 01234 362337 wWw.quarrytheatre.Org.uk The Quarry Theatre at St Luke’s is part of Bedford School, which is part of The Harpur Trust
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2018 River Festival bigger than ever
2018’s Bedford river Festival will be bigger than ever before, with the Festival expanding further down the river to include St Marys’ Gardens. St Mary’s Gardens will host a stage, an arts and crafts marquee as well as a marquee for The Higgins
Bedford. There will also be giant games and circus skills area, as well as an Adventure Village with a low rope course, bushcraft activities, and canoe trail.
This year the river Festival marks its 40th anniversary on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th July, and is recognised as one of the largest outdoor events of its kind in the UK with the last Festival in
2016 seeing over a quarter of a million people enjoying this free Festival on Bedford’s Embankment. As well as this all new area, many of the old favourites are back for this year’s Festival with the Carnival Parade, the Dragonboat and raft races, the boat parade, music, a wide selection of food and drink, and Saturday night’s fireworks display.
Mayor Dave Hodgson said: “This year’s river Festival is fast approaching, and it’s exciting to see all the new events, stalls and entertainments that will be on St Mary’s Gardens. This is a lovely and underused stretch of our riverside, and with the new riverside Bedford development across the water I’m sure this will be a popular area during the river Festival weekend.”
Free Fun for all the Family... 14th & 15th July 2018 The Embankment, Russell Park & St. Mary’s Gardens
CELEBRATING 40 YEARS! 1978 – 2018
Daily from 11am
Fireworks • Music • Food & Drink of the World • Funfair • Festival Parade Sports, Heritage & Cultural Villages • Dragon Boats • Raft Races & more!
For more information, please visit www.bedford.gov.uk/riverfestival
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WOOTTON ACADEMY Kimberley College
TRUST
Woo on Upper School
SUMMER CONCERT A joint concert with our partner school, E.T.A. Ho man Gymnasium, Bamberg, Germany.
Kimberley College Green Lane, Stewartby, Beds MK43 9LY
Thursday 5th July 2018 7.30 p.m.
Free Entry with Ticket
Tickets available from Reprographics Department, Woo on Upper School, Hall End Road, Woo on, Beds MK43 9HT Telephone: 01234 767123. Enjoy a lovely evening listening to a range of di erent musical styles performed by our music students and the musicians from Germany.
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comedy p
Best of Castle Comedy at Bedford’s Quarry Theatre
Castle Comedy has a spectacular show on thursday July 28th at the state-of-the-art the Quarry theatre at St luke’s, Bedford as part of the Bedfringe Festival. The Best of Castle Comedy Special sees three of the biggest stars from the UK comedy circuit taking the stage for the ultimate comedy show!
opening the show is lucy Porter. She is one of the most loveable comics in the country and a fringe favourite! She starred in the new series of ‘Live at the Apollo’ and has also appeared on ‘QI’, ‘Nevermind the Buzzcocks’, ‘Mock The Week’ and ‘Have I got News for You’. “Porter is one of the most talented comics on the circuit. Brilliantly crafted jokes. This is get happy comedy at its very best.” ★★★★★ time Out Marcel lucont is a flâneur, raconteur, bon-viveur, and easily the greatest UK-based French comedian around! He has appeared on ‘The John Bishop Show’, ‘Live at The Electric’, Sky Atlantic’s ‘Set List’ and ‘russell Howard’s Good News’. “Fresh, accessible and hilarious” the Guardian Closing the show are the raymond and Mr timpkins revue. They are without a doubt the maddest, silliest, stupidest, cleverest, strangest and the funniest double act of comedians on the circuit. Likened to Morecambe and Wise and the Two ronnies, they count David
Walliams amongst their legion of fans. Guaranteed to bring the house down. “The original and the best!” David Walliams
“A mad, anarchic triumph of stupidity over style. Not to be missed” the Guardian Tickets are £16, To book visit:www.castlecomedy.co.uk
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38 07724 — THURSDAY JULY 5, 2018 TEL: 905406 or 07894 935952
‘Suddenly’, ‘When the Going gets Tough (the tough gets going)’as well as the now classic Get Outta My Dreams; Get Into My Car plus many many more! Also on the bill is international soul singer Jaki Graham, the mighty ASWAD, Loose Ends ft Carl McIntosh and ‘The Christians’.
Jess Glynne
Bedford Park Saturday August 4
Billy Ocean Bedford Park Friday August 3
Billy Ocean has sold over 30 million records in his lifetime to date. He has collected a pile of Gold and Platinum records across the world and hit the number one spot worldwide in the pop charts including the USA, Australia, Germany, Holland, and the UK. Billy has achieved extraordinary success as both an artist and a songwriter. We are so excited to have this exceptional artist confirmed to play in Bedford Park this summer. Backed by his full band expect hit after hit from ‘Love Really Hurts Without You’, ‘Caribbean Queen’
The Triple Brit Award nominee and platinum selling artist will be ‘Right Here’ in Bedford Park This Summer! Jess Glynne first came into the public prominence in 2014 as the vocalist on Clean Bandit’s Grammy Award winning and #1 hit
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‘Rather Be’; Glynne scored another number one earlier that same year on Route 94’s ‘My Love’. Pop sensation Jess Glynne has since become one of the biggest UK breakthrough acts of recent years. Her chart-topping debut album, I Cry When I Laugh – which includes the singles Right Here, Hold My Hand, Don’t Be So Hard on Yourself and Take Me Home – turned double platinum in the UK, making it the biggest selling debut album of 2015.
Lesley Garrett Proms headliner Bedford Park Sunday August 5
Bedford Park Proms takes place on Sunday 5th August in Bedford Park. The soloist this year will be none other than English soprano Lesley Garrett, this exquisite musician, broadcaster and media personality is the perfect fit for Bedford Park Proms. Lesley Garrett is known for her cross-over repertoire that stretches from Mozart to Meat Loaf via West End Musicals; reaching places that other opera stars can only dream of. A fantastic leading lady for Bedford’s 2018 Proms. Joining Lesley will be tenor Jeff Stewart, who enjoys a busy world-wide career and his dramatic tenor voice is much in
demand, both in opera and on the concert platform. With over 120 performers on stage this will be a magnificent performance as the guest soloists, a 70 piece choir and the London Gala orchestra, conducted by Stephen Bell take to the stage for performances including Handel’s Zadok The Priest, Bizet’s Habanera, Verdi’s Grand March (Aida) and Grieg’s In the Hall of the Mountain King. The musical celebration will culminate with rousing favourites for flag-waving and singing along, including Rule Britannia and Land of Hope & Glory, as thousands of lasers and fireworks light up the sky. www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk
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