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BEDFORD BOROUGH EDITION
JANUARY 2020
Arrivederci Liana
LABOUR HOLD BEDFORD Bedford’s Albero Lounge is losing its assistant manager – she’s off travelling again! Liana Infurnari and her partner Toni, who is a chef at the Lounge are going on an Antipodean adventure. In January (2020) the couple are emigrating to New Zealand. Their plans are pretty loose at the moment but they will be looking for agricultural work during the
southern hemisphere’s summer. Liana a Bedfordian, attended Biddenham Upper School and since she left about 10 years ago, she has worked in the hospitality industry. Her family owns the La Fontana restaurant in Ram Yard where Liana worked, she also had a spell at the Bedford Swan Hotel. Liana’s love of travelling has taken her to
many places including South East Asia and to the USA where she worked as an events coordinator in the Sequoia National Park, California. In her spare time she sings in a band who have a regular slot at Bedford’s High Street pub, The Standard, on their Bandeoke nights. Liana’s says her roots are in Bedford and she is sure to return home at some time!
ON a night when the exit polls gave the Conservatives a 99% chance of taking Bedford and Kempston there was disbelief at the final verdict. Labour’s Mohammad Yasin crept over the line to be returned as MP with a majority of just 145 votes. The Conservative candidate Ryan Henson’s agent, Bernard Jones pressurised the Returning Officer, Philip Simpkins into agreeing a recount of three out of eighteen ‘mini counts’. The recount uncovered 12 incorrectly counted votes, Mr Simpkins refused pleas from Mr Jones to recount the balance of the count. The result stood – 145 vote majority to Labour’s Mohammad Yasin, down over 2,200 votes on the 2017 General Election. The result could have been much different
How did that happen?
had the Brexit party not contested the seat, their candidate, Charles Bunker took 896 votes, many of which would have presumably gone to the Conservative party. Elsewhere in Bedford Borough, former MP for Bedford and Kempston, Richard Fuller, who lost his seat to Mr Yasin in 2017 returned to fight the seat in North East Beds vacated by Alistair Burt. Mr Fuller polled 38,443 votes, a 37.4% majority on a turnout of 71.7% All the local election results on page 2
Fuller retains North East Beds
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JANUARY 2020 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
It’s cutting edge for Angela’s Fund
View from the Rt Revd
Richard Atkinson
oN Saturday, December 14, 2019, at The Caldecote Football Club, Mick Jeeves had both his wispy locks and ‘gnome like’ beard totally shaved off by Alison Smith who runs her salon from Kingsley Court, Sandy. The brave act was sponsored by family and friends in aid of Angela’s small cell ovarian cancer research fund at The Eve Appeal. After his very close shaves, Mick said: “I feel lovely and very happy to support a cause so close to my family’s heart. It gives me pleasure all year round collecting 5p coins for Angela’s Fund but I thought I’d like
The Bishop of Bedford
NEW YEAR – NEW START!
one of my childhood memories is visiting my Grandmother in Hove. More particularly, just around the corner from her flat was the Sussex County Cricket Ground. off I would go with my sandwiches and spend the day watching the likes of John Snow and Jim Parks, both England players of repute, displaying their cricketing prowess. over the years my interest in Cricket was maintained, not least through playing clergy cricket for many years against other Dioceses around the country. The result is that I still keep an eye on the results, not least those from Sussex. I was therefore delighted when cricket featured so highly in the 2019 Sports Personality of the Year. Not only did the world Cup side gain the team trophy for their victory over New Zealand, but they also claimed the trophy for the Greatest Sporting Moment when Jos Buttler broke the stumps to seal Cricket world Cup victory. More than that Ben Stokes won the main award for both his Cricket world Cup achievements and his remarkable innings to secure victory against the Australians in the third test. As you may recall two years ago Ben was in court on an affray charge. He was acquitted but subsequently pleaded guilty to a charge by the England and wales Cricket Board that he had brought the game into disrepute. In his acceptance speech Ben said; ‘Two years ago was a tough time for me in my life’. But he then went on to speak of all those who had supported him and helped him move forward. He was able to move on and to make those remarkable batting and bowling contributions.. Believing in people; helping them to make a new start is so important. It is part of that Christian witness to the importance of forgiveness and new beginnings. It requires encouragement, generosity, and love. It can be costly in so many ways. The murder of Jack Merritt and Saskia Jones at that conference by London Bridge on the theme of prison rehabilitation, by one of the very people they were aiming to help starkly reminds us of that. Jack’s father however is clear that the work must continue. New starts matter! This New Year amongst all those other resolutions, what can you do to enable a new start in the life of someone else?
Local hospice’s Lights of Love event shines bright
FAMILIES from across Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire came together to celebrate the lives of loved ones at a special festive remembrance service on Sunday, December 8, 2019. Holding glowing lanterns, people gathered outside Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice in Moggerhanger near Bedford for the hospice’s annual Lights of Love event. There was a poignant service led by the hospice’s Spiritual Care Coordinator, Birgitte Grace, which included readings and festive music performed by the Bedford Town Band. Singers from the Amici choir were joined by Sue Ryder staff and volunteers and sang a selection of carols. The hospice also switched on its Christmas lights, which illuminated
several beautiful Christmas trees positioned in the grounds with white sparkling lights. Guests were also invited to write a message to loved ones who they wished to remember on a dedication star. The stars were displayed on trees of light in the hospice’s memory garden, which was specially lit up with purple, blue, green and white lights. Hayley webb, Senior Community Fundraiser at Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice, said: “Thank you so much to everyone who joined us at Lights of Love to let the memories of loved ones shine bright this Christmas; it was a really special evening. Thank you also to our sponsor G&H Seamer Funeral Directors for their kind support.
Sandy man gets 10 years
Two men have been jailed for a total of 19 years and four months after detectives used phone work and forensics to prove they had set-up robberies at a Dunstable pub. Paul Shah, 37, of Winchester Road, Sandy, was the former deputy manager of the pub they targeted and worked with his accomplice Adam Urbanowicz, 21, of no fixed address, to arrange two robberies in october last year. A CCTV captured Shah intentionally leaving open a door which was used by robbers moments later. They were both jailed at Luton Crown Court on Friday, December 13. Shah was sentenced to 10 years while Urbanowicz was jailed for nine years and four months.
to raise even more. People have generously sponsored me for around £700.” The Butcher family were there to show support and Linda said: “this is an incredible amount for one person to raise.” Alison’s volunteer work was not yet over as she followed up with a further head and beard shave of Paul Maza, who was raising funds for Keech Hospice and his justgiving page had just reached £805! Congratulations to Mick and Paul for braving the shaves in the middle of December.
General Election Results 2019 compared to 2017
BedfoRd and KemPSton
2017 Lab win Bedford – 1.6% majority, turnout 67% votes % mohammad Yasin (L) ........................22,712..........................................46.9 Richard Fuller (C)................................21,923..........................................45.2 Henry Vann (LD) ................................. 2,837..........................................5.8 Lucy Bywater (G) ................................ 1,008..........................................2.1
2019 Lab hold Bedford & Kempston – 0.3% majority, turnout 66.1% votes % Mohammad Yasin (L)..............20,491..............................43.3 Ryan Henson (C) ....................20,346 ............................43 Henry Vann (LD) .....................4,608 ..............................9.7 Adrian Spurrell (G) .................960 .................................2.0 Charles Bunker (B) .................896 .................................1.9
noRth eaSt BedfoRdShiRe
2017 Con hold Bedfordshire North East – 32.5% majority, turnout 74% votes % alistair Burt (C) .................................39,139..........................................61.0 Julian Vaughan (L)...............................18,277..........................................28. Stephen Rutherford (LD) .....................3,693............................................5.8 Duncan Strachan (UKIP) .....................1,896............................................3.0 Philippa Fleming (G) ...........................1,215............................................1.9
2019 Con hold North East Beds – 37.4% majority, turnout 71.7% votes % Richard Fuller (C) ...................38,443..............................59.1 Julian Vaughan (L)..................14,160 ............................21.8 Daniel Norton (LD) .................7,999 ..............................12.3 Adam Zerny (I) .......................2,525 ..............................3.9 Philippa Fleming (G) ...............1,891 ..............................2.9
mid BedfoRdShiRe
2017 Con hold Mid Bedfordshire with a 33.2% majority, turnout 75% votes % nadine dorries (C).............................38,936..........................................61.7 Rhiannon Meades (L) ..........................17,953..........................................28.4 Lisa French (LD) .................................3,798............................................6.0 Gareth Ellis (G)....................................1,794............................................2.8 Ann Kelly(Looney)..............................667...............................................1.1
2019 Con hold Mid Bedfordshire – 38.1% majority, turnout 73.7% votes % Nadine Dorries (C) .................38,692..............................59.8 Rhiannon Meade (L) ...............14,028 ............................21.7 Rachel McGann (LD)...............8,171 ..............................12.6 Gareth Ellis (G) .......................2,478 ..............................3.8 Alan Victor (I) .........................812 .................................1.3 Ann Kelly (Looney) .................536 .................................0.8
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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN JANUARY 2020
Mark Rutherford School receives Artsmark Award
Lisa’s a fitness finalist
Waite (Strictly Come dancing) who claimed the male Presenter of the Year award. Lisa is a fitness presenter, choreographer and also runs her own business teaching fitness classes in Biggleswade and surrounding areas. Lisa has been running her fitness business for eight years teaching classes in the community such as Zumba Gold, Zumba toning, fitness Pilates and Glow Beatz. if you are interested in attending any of Lisa’s classes please visit her website today at lisahillierfitness.com Lisa will be keeping her award pride of place on the mantelpiece at home and has enjoyed celebrating with all her class students!
in dance, music, drama, art, media and photography, and some courses have been changed to tailor the offer to areas of particular student interest. Mark Rutherford School was supported by Royal opera House Bridge in planning and developing their initial objectives. Royal opera House Bridge worked alongside the school at various stages to support their Artsmark Award achievement. Tina Gray-Rampello from Royal opera House Bridge said, “As an Artsmark school, Mark Rutherford School gained access to exceptional networks and resources from some of the most treasured cultural organisations in the country, which helped to strengthen and deliver their arts provision. Through Artsmark, Mark Rutherford School will continue to incorporate art and culture into every pupil’s life, learning, knowledge and understanding, helping them to build skills, resilience, confidence and character.” on receiving the award, Acting Headteacher Kelli Foster said: “we’re extremely proud of achieving our Artsmark Gold Award. we are committed to delivering a high quality arts and cultural education and we look forward to continue to grow with Artsmark.”
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LoCaL community fitness instructor, Lisa hillier, was nominated for an award back in may 2019. the event was for the national Community fitness awards which is an annual event held in newcastle in recognition of instructors, fitness brands and fitness suppliers in the industry. Lisa was then shortlisted as a finalist in the female Presenter of the Year category and was invited to attend the awards ceremony on november 9. Lisa was up against other experienced presenters who work for well known fitness brands and she was completely shocked when they announced her name as the winner! Lisa won this title alongside ian
STUDENTS and staff at Mark Rutherford School are celebrating after receiving a prestigious Artsmark Award. Artsmark is Arts Council England’s award for schools and education. It celebrates settings that embrace the arts across the curriculum, bringing them to life for children and young people. Mark Rutherford has maximised creative partnership opportunities that have unlocked financial investment for creative and cultural projects including two ‘Aspire Higher’ Creative Careers conferences that have been delivered in collaboration with National Portfolio organisation Bedford Creative Arts and the National Collaborative outreach Programme’s consortia, Aspire Higher, which is based at the University of Bedfordshire. The school has collaborated with the University of Bedfordshire on ‘Aspire Higher’ exploring how creativity and the arts can support employment prospects and selfesteem. The national average of students taking an Arts GCSE is 44% compared to Mark Rutherford’s above national average of 65%. The school offers a range and variety of GCSE, BTEC and A Level courses
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JANUARY 2020 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
Have your say on a bypass Now the distraction of the election process is behind us, we have written to our new MP, Richard Fuller, asking for a meeting to seek his support for a bypass for Sandy and Beeston. A petition of over 2,300 signatures was presented to the Dept for Transport in September 2019. A statement was made in westminster Hall at the beginning of october when George Freeman, MP, a Min-
ister in the Departmen, promised that the concerns expressed regarding the present state of the A1 would be taken forward. It is to be hoped there will be some positive news to report in the early part of the New Year. on a local level, Central Bedfordshire Council has announced a consultation under the heading ‘what do you think of the roads
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across Central Bedfordshire?’ The council has recently signed up to the National Highways and Transport Public Satisfaction Survey which will enable it to compare results and best practice across the country. The survey covers views about highway maintenance including roads, pavements, potholes, street lighting, drain clearance and gritting as well as looking at traffic congestion, road safety and accessibility. So, now is the time to have your say! Follow this link to do so: https://www.nhtnetwork.co.uk /isolated/data/scorecard/ 137423/ scoring/313/section/10636 the consultation closes on 31st January. As always, public support is vital so please put suggestions for road improvements where you live on our website. If you have yet to do so, please join the SG19 Group by signing up as a member on our website: www.sg19.org It costs nothing, we do not release details to others and we do not bombard folk with e-mail. It will enable us to ‘spread the word’ and get support when we move forward, with our colleagues in Buckden, to establish a petition to trigger Government action. Promises to improve the infrastructure of the country have been made during the election campaign, supported by the release of the necessary funding. The need for a proper bypass to move the A1 away from our communities has been clear for many years and the time has now come for some positive action.
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Stephen Allen Chairman SG19 Road Group 27 Cambridge Rd, Sandy SG19 1JF
the Live Band Charity evening held at harlington Village hall on november 24, raised £2167.27. as in previous years every penny will be donated specifically to the Children’s Unit at Keech hospice – some of it has in fact already been used to support their Children’s Christmas Party.
OBITUARY
Tom Honeywell It is with great sadness that we share news of the sudden and untimely death of Tom Honeywell, a pillar of the Milton Ernest community. Tom and his wife, Nicky, and their four children, Amy, Katherine, Charlotte and David, came to Milton Ernest 12 years ago fitting in comfortably and companionably with the other young families of Riverside View. He loved village life and all that it entailed; barbeques with neighbours, quiz nights at the village hall, organising the children’s races at the summer fete and more recently attending the harvest supper. with a welcoming and cheery demeaner it was difficult not to warm to Tom and his enchanting anecdotes of his childhood in Bristol, his early career as a cobbler for Clarkes, his year’s gallivanting around London and stories of his four children. He delighted in having ‘friends from the village’ and the Honeywells’ solid
24/12/1961 – 06/11/2019
friendships really made Milton Ernest feel like home for them as a family. Nicky, Amy, Katherine, Charlotte and David would like to sincerely thank everyone for their love and support during this traumatic time. They also extend their thanks to those who attended the funeral; it was a remarkable send off for a remarkable man. Tom was a friend to all and many of our community feel the ache of his passing. Amy Honeywell
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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN JANUARY 2020
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Weight loss helps turn redundancy into a career
We have groups all over Bedford and the surrounding villages to suit – to find your closest go to www.slimmingworld.co.uk and search with your postcode
wHEN Jeanette joined her local Slimming world group, she couldn’t have predicted the additional benefits that losing over three stone could bring. A new career for the New Year helping others to feel as amazing as she does now. when Jeanette joined her local group, she was really unhappy with her weight. She recalls “ I was suffering with back pains and struggled to breath at times. I was also just generally tired and really lacked self-esteem, I just didn’t like the way that I looked and felt”. Her mum has diabetes and so this was a real worry that without doing something, she would be following the same path. The breaking point came for Jeanette when she was looking for an outfit for her daughters 18th Birthday “I was going through my wardrobe, and I realised that my size 14/16 outfits no longer fit me, and I was mortified and I knew I needed to do some-
thing.” “So I did a bit of looking and some friends had recommended Slimming world, so I went along but I can’t tell you how nervous I was. I just thought that I was going to be judged and humiliated, but I needn’t of worried” Jeanette shared that as she walked through the door on her first meeting, she was greeted by a lovely warm and friendly group, and that ongoing support was so key to her success. “The group made it for me, they were supportive, I never felt like anyone judged me and my consultant was just so caring, from the occasional phone call, text message and card. It’s the support that kept me motivated right the way through my weight loss’. Not only that, it was a great way for Jeanette to meet people having only moved into the village six months before. “Since joining group I have made some really good
friends, so much so we now have regular nights out together at the local wootton blue cross bingo”. when it comes to food, Jeanette, busy in a school at the time was worried it might be quite complicated and time consuming to Food optimise, but again she had nothing to worry about. “what I loved most was the freedom with foods, I didn’t have to weigh and measure everything I ate, and I was never hungry at all’. Jeanette loves a good curry, and this was easy to include. “I was delighted we could still enjoy our favourite meals at home, which my husband loves as well. I was worried that we would have to ditch the Friday night curry, but I learned that it was so easy to still include this, my favourite curry now is the Slimming world Chicken Balti which I can whip up at home and it tastes amazing, I like mine really spicy, oh and best of all, I can still enjoy a cheeky glass of wine to wash it down, everything in moderation”. other foods that they now enjoy as a family include real comfort foods like lasagne and pizza topped chicken. “Before I used to by jars of sauce for everything, now I have learned how
easy it is to make these myself, and best of all, now I know exactly what I am eating.’ In terms of Jeanette’s health she is feeling so much healthier and more confident now that she has lost three and a half stones. “I am just feeling in control, I am happy and I am feeling healthy. I can climb the stairs and not get out of breath, I have joined a gym and have reached platinum in Body Magic.” Recently Jeanette was made redundant from her job in the school, and decided to turn her love of Food optimising into a new venture for 2020 because she wants to support others to feel just as amazing as she does. “what’s been so crucial to me has been the support I have received, from my consultant and the group that I attend. It’s just that feeling you get when you are with others who are all working towards the same goal. we are all different, but the support we give each other is magic. It’s that Slimming world feeling that I want to share with others.” Jeanette re-launches the wootton group which meets every Thursday on January 2, at 5:30pm and 7:30pm at the wootton Community centre.
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JANUARY 2020 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
BEDFORD BOROUGH EDITION
TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
Brickhill Primary named Bedford Sports School of the Year 2019
CHILDREN and staff at Brickhill Primary School are rejoicing after being crowned ‘Bedford Sports School of the Year’ at a glittering ceremony held at Bedford’s Corn Exchange on Monday 9 December. The caring community school has always promoted a strong ‘sport for all’ sporting culture involving all children from as young as four years old and right through to 11 years old – every child is encouraged to take part in a sport that suits them. For the third year running, the school achieved the School Games Gold Award for their commitment to the development of competition across the
school and they continue to enter KS1 and KS2 teams into multi-sports tournaments across the Borough. They have had notable successes this year too with an unbeaten Year 5 and 6 boys and girls football side, cricket and tennis teams, and a mixed dodgeball team that reached the County finals. The range of sports on offer for a Primary School is exceptional with pupils able to take part in gymnastics, dance, athletics, tag rugby, hockey, netball, futsal, Bikeability, martial arts, archery, cheerleading, table tennis and swimming.
The school has a real commitment to its policy for inclusivity. Headteacher Debbie wilson said, “we go the extra mile to ensure that all children have the opportunity to participate in sport, and we often have A, B, C and D teams across all sports to give everyone the chance to compete. we have worked really hard to provide a comprehensive programme of clubs and activities to appeal to all ages and to positively include those children who are considered disadvantaged. I am absolutely thrilled that we have received this award and it is a real credit to the Brickhill Primary team.”
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JANUARY 2020 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
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Dave by Dave Hodgson Mayor of Bedford
GREAT RAIL BETRAYAL
The East Midlands Railway (EMR) consultation has now been published and has confirmed the downgrade of the Bedford rail services, with Bedford completely disappearing from the Intercity map. The East Midlands Railway consultation confirms Bedford commuters and leisure travellers worst fears: • totally removing Bedford form the intercity map. • no direct links north beyond Kettering and Corby (due to cuts to direct north bound trains). • Slower commuter style trains to London in place of today’s intercity services. I, and my Liberal Democrat colleagues, warned about these potential cuts and reductions in service and local Conservatives accused us of scaremongering! I attended the initial consultation with hundreds of local residents arguing for Bedford to keep Intercity services and our links to the north and the midlands. It is very disappointing that local residents have been ignored. Claims, in the consultation, of a “more frequent service” are complete nonsense, as slower trains – all stopping at Luton or Luton Airport – are proposed. we have had all the pain for electrification with the closure of Bromham Road Bridge, and cancelled trains along with rail replacement buses, but none of the gain. This followed the chaos of the 2018 timetable changes. The Government must now intervene and reverse its decision imposed in this broken franchise. They are directly responsible for this disaster. I am urging residents to respond to the East Midlands Railway Consultation at https://www.eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk/ december2020
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HUNDREDS of students from across Bedfordshire are being offered the chance to see just how far they can go as part of a new partnership with an oxford college. A £50,000 donation from the Connolly Foundation will offer more than 100 students from across Bedford Borough and Central Bedfordshire the opportunity to further their education at oxford University’s wadham College, in partnership with Redborne Teaching Alliance. It is part of the college’s Bedfordshire Project, which aims to work with non-selective schools in the county to work with students and increase chances of their pupils from a disadvantaged background getting into highly selective universities. It will be open to students aged 14-16 and will attend after-school master classes and have the opportunity to visit wadham College, where they will meet with staff and students to find out more about university life. After their GCSEs, year 11 pupils will also have the opportunity to attend wadham for a residential course. Nigel Croft, head of the Redborne Teaching Alliance and a trustee of the
ConnollyFoundation, said: “The Connolly Foundation exists to provide support for young people across Bedfordshire. “I am delighted that the foundation has been able to assist with this opportunity for students who have the potential to benefit from a university education to find out more and hopefully to gain the skills and confidence to make informed choices that are right for them.” The Connolly Foundation-funded expansion to the project is targeting six schools across the two boroughs, which are Biddenham International School and Sports College, Bedford Academy, Mark Rutherford School, Redborne Upper School, Queensbury Academy and Samuel whitbread Academy. David Bailey, Principal of Biddenham International School and Sports College said: “This is a great project for Bedford Borough schools to be involved as it will enable – and inspire – more students to go to top universities and follow their dream” wadham College already has a similar programme in place with schools in Luton and the new partnership means that more than 20 schools across Bedfordshire are taking part.
Teaching pupils about railway safety
NETwoRK Rail has taught pupils from Priory Lower School in Bedford how to stay safe on and around the railway. on wednesday, December 11, 28 pupils visited the newly reconstructed Bromham Road bridge. The pupils were given a site tour and were taught about why the bridge needed to be reconstructed, the benefits of the project and how to stay safe in and around a railway environment. Pupils were also taught how dangerous it is to trespass on the tracks, particularly in areas with overhead line equipment, which carries 25,000 volts and would have life changing consequences for anyone
coming into contact with it. Philippa D’Netto, Scheme Project Manager for Network Rail, said: “Safety is our top priority and we wanted to teach the pupils about how to stay safe when using the railway “There are big changes happening to the railway in Bedford as part of the Midland Main Line Upgrade. whilst the electrification of the route from London to Kettering and Corby via Bedford will bring significant benefits for passengers, the new equipment which will be used to power the trains carries 25,000 volts of electricity, so we wanted to highlight just how important it is to stay safe.”
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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN JANUARY 2020
gardening
— 9
An excuse for armchair gardening by Maureen Catlin Milton Ernest Garden Centre
T
The Lawn Doctor
Resolutions – my own is to stop making New Year’s Resolutions! but I met someone the other day who hopes to plant at least one tree per month. A wonderful idea but impractical unless you have a spare acre or two, right? The person concerned actually has no garden, but plans to simply plant amongst existing trees in the various pieces of woodland where he walks his dog every day. I applaud anyone who does a little to replace the thousands of trees needlessly felled in this area over recent years. I for one have never been remotely comfortable with the fact that trees provide us with oxygen and we reciprocate by chopping them down! Got a horticultural New Year’s Resolution for 2020? Let me know and I will happily share it via this page! lawndocgardens@aol.com or tel: 01767 627 581 or 07796 328 855. Best wishes all for a very healthy and Happy New Year.
colder clay soils and grown successfully by Alan on his Felmersham allotment. Two new varieties of the super food Spinach are worth considering. Spinach Helios has thick succulent leaves which are like Swiss Chard and full of flavour. It is highly nutritious producing quality crops with good resistance to mildew. Spinach Mikado is perfect for salads and stir fries so pick when the leaves are small. It produces vigorous crops and is a mild flavour throughout summer. Another good salad leaf crop is Lambs Lettuce Vision. It is very tasty and easy to grow and good through the hot summer months when lettuces tend to bolt quickly. It is an excellent source of Vitamin C and Iron. Carrot Volcano has a long sweet bright orange root which is tasty and full of Vitamin A and Antioxidents. This variety is resistant to splitting and disease and can be planted in tubs on the
patio. They can be sown in batches from March to June and harvested from July until December. If you have room to grow Brussel Sprouts Crispus a variety which is harvested from November to January and Cryptus harvested December to March are both resistant to club root and recommended for flavour. Terence recommends both these varieties. Beetroot Golden Eye is another super food which is very easy to grow. It’s an amazing golden colour with an excellent flavour and is perfect for roasting, grating in salads or for juicing. Make successive sowings from April until July to harvest August to october. A very underrated but delicious vegetable when roasted, mashed with a little ginger or cinnamon or grated raw in salads is Turnip oregon. It’s sweet yellow roots are an excellent source of Vitamin C.
£
So here are some exciting additions to our choice of Five A Day for the healthy improved diet the experts are encouraging us to eat plus for we Gardeners the added bonus of the exercise we get in planting tending and harvesting our own produce
Squirrel Proof Feeder HENRY BELL SQUIRREL PROOF FEEDER FOR PEANUTS, SEED 2 TUBS OF AND FAT SNACKS 50 ONLY
Thank you to all of you who have already entered this year’s Annual Gardening Quiz (December’s magazine). If you haven’t yet had a go, you have until January 15, 2019 to send me your answers. And if you have mislaid the magazine, contact me using the details below and I will send you the questions. Remember: the first correct entry pulled from my hat wins an hour’s worth of gardening from yours truly! Give it a go. Throughout this year, I have regularly had to report the horror stories of untrained people being employed as ‘gardeners’ or ‘tree surgeons’ who have in short, caused expensive and often irreparable damage to gardens. one group of often, though not always, untrained people who are very much exempt from these protestations are that special and select breed, the volunteers; the people who work tirelessly in the churches and other public spaces in this area to create lovely spaces for us all to enjoy. Having spoken, over the years, with a number of these public spirited and genuinely decent people, they may not have had the benefit of formal horticultural training but that does not mean to say that they aren’t both passionate and knowledgeable about their subject matter. well done all of you. I genuinely doff my cap to you. And if you have the time, the inclination and the talent, why not join their ranks? A well chosen word with the vicar concerned is, I am sure, all it would take. After all, many hands make light work. For some, gardens are only ever places to spend time when it is warm and one can relax in them. For others, there is always something that needs doing and it won’t surprise anyone reading this to find that I don’t only fall into the latter camp but i actually prefer the work at this time of the year. Being followed around the garden by a Robin keen for you to do his or her work for them is an absolute joy as is listening to the owls, the kite or even the pigeons. Just because an animal is common place really does not stop it from improving one’s day and next time you hear a collared dove, imagine their distinctive call sounding like a bored football supporter singing in a flat, monotonous ‘u-n-i-t-e-d, u-n-it-e-d’. Do this, and a smile will often follow! At this time of the year, many of you will have New Year’s
sata but this year I will grow the F1 hybrid Roma Super Sauce which is listed as a champion Plum Tomato with a rich fruity flavour that can also be grown outdoors. All are rich sources of vitamin C and antioxidants. I love the mini Petita type Cucumbers and Socrates performed so well that I’m loathe to try another variety but Cucumber Swing has all those qualities and can be grown in tubs on the patio. Feed weekly as you do for the tomatoes. Aubergine Jewel Jet produces compact plants that can bear up to 20 small but practical fruits. They are ideal to grow in tubs on a sunny patio or in a greenhouse. There’s a new Sweet Corn called Rising Sun that has proven in all the trials to be the earliest sweetest corn with large well packed cobs that freeze well so definitely one to grow this year. Sweetcorn Lark is a tender sweet variety that is recommended for
HE new gardening year is heralded by the new seasons seed catalogues and great excuse for a bit of armchair gardening while we look forward to some better weather to get out there and get planting. As we are apparently starting to eat more vegetables in our diet and a great way to reduce the Carbon Footprint is to Grow Your own let’s look at the exciting new additions to the Veg Patch plus some good recommendations from varieties we grew this year. Runner Bean Lady Di has a great flavour and large crops of stringless beans. Grow Climbing Bean Violet Podded for lots of tasty colourful pods that turn bright green when plunged into boiling water. Pick when the pods are really small or allow them to grow a little fatter and chop and freeze for stir fries throughout
winter. Dwarf Bean Sansoucy is a must for growing in tubs. Its yields are very high with beans that are a good flavour, easy to pick and will set over several months. I grew Tomato Akron this year and was most impressed with the huge crops of very tasty tomatoes that did not split and kept for weeks in the fridge. I also grew Tomato Roma an Italian variety for making Tomato Soup and Pas-
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10 —
JANUARY 2020 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
out & about clubbing
#3 is a magic number
As we enter a brand new year January is always a difficult month for venues, the only way to get feet through the doors is with good acts and value for money deals, I have picked out a few events this month that could well attract a full house. Esquires Nightclub Bedford have just confirmed that they have secured the legendary god father of house music Seb Fontaine as their special guest for their next up and coming Momacoca Night on Saturday 22nd February 20. Fontaine is a recognised house
by Tony Hendrix
DJ worldwide renown for his 90s reign when every club in the country fought to get him behind the decks. The 49 year old was brought up in London where he soon established his name at Crazy Larry’s on The Kings Rd, London and went on to secure a residency at The Fridge in Brixton in 1989. Following guest spots at various other clubs throughout the UK he became resident at the UKs largest club night at Cream which also naturally made him a main player at Ibiza Nights. He joined BBC radio one back in
2000 as a specialist dance DJ hosting a weekly show as well as broadcasting live with radio one from Ibiza, he now concentrates on producing his own music. Fontaine will be supported by Momacoca regulars Mark Russell, Dazz Norman, David James & MC Blakey. Seb has taken his music globally he is undoubtedly one of the best DJ /Producers to grace the UK. By simply purchasing a ticket, you’ll be supporting a charity very close to our hearts - Keech Hospice
Care, located nearby in Luton. Tickets are available online from : https://www.seetickets.com/ tour/club-momacoca-ft-sebfontaine For further information on Keech Hospice: https://www.keech.org.uk/ Last year 2019 saw the opening of new venues within the town centre Astons Nightclub being one of them located on the High St, just before 2019 came to a close saw the opening of a new quaint venue simply called 3 St Peters. This is a members only club and venue as the name implies located at 3 St Peters Street Bedford, the venue has been refurbished to a very high standard with many lush victorian style features. The venue offers fine drinks and snacks within a very elegant surroundings, operating from 6pm till 1.30am every Fri-
day and Saturday night. wednesday is cinema night where you can watch amazing cult and classic award winning films. This is a truly stunning venue with a difference well worth a look in its not a nightclub with loud music but more of a place for the slightly more mature clientele to chill in the evening for a catch up with friends. For membership and further info on this venue visit www.3stpeters.com Esquires Bar jumps into the new year on Saturday 4th January with their first gig of the year The ouse Valley Singles Club, doors open 8pm show starts at 9pm, tickets cost £10 available from seetickets. com, Mario’s hair, Slide records and Esquires Bar. For more information on this gig visit www.theousevalleysinglesclub. com. Have a great new year.
jazz White Horse jazz night m
Wi t h
G l o r y
TO THE NEW
a n d
Fi r e
M i n i s t r i e s
POWER FOR A FRESH START Anointing and Communion Service
Worship by: The Alabaster 31st December From 10 p.m.
New Hope • New Joy • New You 1-2 Ampthill Road Kempston Hardwick (By Supreme Concrete) Bedford (B530) MK45 3JE
www.gloryandfireministries.org.uk
This January 2020 sees Monday Night Jazz into its 6th year of weekly Jazz nights at the white Horse, Bedford. on January 13 Guitarist nick Costley-white will kick off the new year season with a Hammond organ Trio featuring Ross Stanley. on January 20, The white Horse will welcome back the ever popular Vocalist (below) Zoe
francis & legendary Guitarist Jim mullen. The quartet will be completed by Ross Stanley on Hammond organ and mark hale on Drums. monday, January 27, Sara dowling (above) (Vocals) and màtyàs Gayer (Piano). one of the top Jazz vocalists this country has to offer and recent winner of the 2019 Jazz Awards Jazz Vocalist of the year!
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–––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– Stroke survivors & their carers join our IRISH CEILI AND POTTON MUSIC 4 IVEL STROKE CLUB SET DANCING MEMORY Wednesdays 8pm to 10 pm £2 per session – first evening free No partner required. Beginners welcome. the Reading Room, 1, Barkers Lane, Bedford. Ring Tim 01234 317847 for more details
–––––––––––––––––––– MUSIC FOR THE MEMORY in SandY Music for the Memory is a not-for-profit organisation providing musical activity sessions on a Tuesday afternoon for those with any kind of memory problem (dementia, Alzheimer’s and similar conditions) together with their carers. Music for the Memory is a social activity, in an informal and friendly setting, and you don’t have to be able to ‘sing’, and no musical knowledge is required! Enquiries are warmly welcomed by Kathy Mainstone on: 07740 656589 www.musicforthememory.org.uk
every Wednesday afternoon from 2.30pm-4.00pm at the Pavilion, mill Lane, Potton. The group is facilitated by a qualified and experienced music therapist and supported by a friendly welcoming and supportive team. If you are living with memory problems, dementia or are a family carer this could be the group for you. we always start with tea, coffee and cakes and a chance to chat and catch up with friends or speak to our dementia specialist. when the music starts we are all encouraged to share as fully as we feel able as a valued member of the group. no musical experience required, just come along, relax and enjoy. Please contact us for more information on 01234 210993 or email contact@tibbsdementia.co.uk or just turn up. Potton Music 4 Memory is one of the services provided by Tibbs Dementia Foundation a local charity support people to live as fully as possible with dementia.
meetings are held at Stonecroft, St Swithins Way, Sandy on the third monday of each month 7.30pm. Transport can be arranged. Speakers, outings & entertainment througout the year. Please contact 01767 680503 for further imformation.
–––––––––––––––––––– BEDFoRD NATIoNAL TRUST ASSoCIATIoN January 21st, 2020 2.30pm Speaker Nick Cooke
THE GREAT TRAIN ROBBERY
addison Centre, Kempston mK42 8Pn Plenty of parking space Everyone welcome. No need to book. Just come For further information please ring Betty Thomas on 01480 860 421
BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN JANUARY 2020
YoGa
— 11
Starting 6th January 2020 - £5, 1 hour class
in Bedford
mondaYS – 2.30pm A blend of Hatha Yoga & Japanese Zen Yoga
To improve health on all levels @ entshed, (By the Gordon arms Pub), 118 Castle Road, BedfoRd mK40 3QY Teacher = June Hannigan. Drop in, Mixed Ability. Please bring a mat no BooKinG ReQUiRed – JUSt Come
for more information text/Phone: 07551 290364 email: juandhannigan@yahoo.co.uk SteadY aCoUStiC
––––––––––––––––––––
–––––––––––––––––––– FOLK SESSION –––––––––––––––––––– 7.30 Last tuesday of the month at THE SANDY the Burnaby arms, Stanley Street, BIGGLESWADE –––––––––––––––––––– UKULELE GROUP BedfoRd mK41 7RU. All abilities WATERPOLO meet every friday at the Baptist SANDY TOWN Beginners very welcome. Chapel hall, Bedford Road, Sandy. every monday 8.30pm Info from Mike 01234 308449 7pm till 9pm. BOWLING CLUB Facebook: Burnaby steady session at Saxon Pool SG18 8SU Play bowls at this friendly local club adja–––––––––––––––––––– see also Bedfordshire beginners cent to Sandy Village Hall. Excellent 12 and older, both sexes melodeon playgroup green. Experienced and new bowlers BEESTON WALK come along and join the fun welcome. Coaching available. –––––––––––––––––––– FOR HEALTH –––––––––––––––––––– More details: Secretary: Kevin hurry we meet every Monday at 10.00 a.m. by 01767 692567 the letter box at the junction of The JOIN YOUR LOCAL sandytownbowlingclub.org.uk Crescent and The Green. The walk is a PROBUS CLUB FOR gentle walk so we do about 30 – –––––––––––––––––––– first40level minutes in the flat fields beyond we are for retired or semi-retired people BEGINNERS Beeston Green. from all walks of life and may include BUGGYFITNESS I will walk as slowly as the slowest person business or professional people. (Male & CHILDREN – ADULTS needs. It’s a ‘just turn up’ walk. CLASSES Female).
TENNIS
Thursday 1-2pm The orchard Community Centre, SG18 8SZ £2.50 per session Contact: 0300 300 4248 or active.lifestyles@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk Tuesdays 2-3pm Saxon Pool & Leisure Centre, Biggleswade £2.50 per session active.lifestyles@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
WALKING FOOTBALL
–––––––––––––––––––– IVEL BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT CENTRE
HAS A LoVED oNE DIED? Perhaps we can help you at our drop-in centre at: The Community Rooms, Baptist church, 24 London Road, Biggleswade SG18 8EB Wednesdays 10am – 12 noon Telephone: Carole or Jill on 07704 734225 for more information. • A place of friendship, compassion and understanding. • Fully trained bereavement support volunteers are always on hand to listen while you talk through your grief. • Somewhere to meet others coping with bereavement issues. • Come and make new friends
Gillian wilkes 07890 232685 grewilkes@gmail.com
–––––––––––––––––––– BEDS & NoRTHANTS MS THERAPY CENTRE
third Saturday of every month 10am - 12.00 noon Entrance 50p Adults FREE PARKING Clothing, Bric a Brac, Books, Linen, Toys and Games Refreshments available 155 Barkers Lane, Bedford. MK41 9RX Tel: 01234 325781 www.mscentrebedsandnorthants.com
MONTHLY SALE
–––––––––––––––––––– BEDFoRD TREFoIL GUILD
GUIDING FOR ADULTS
we offers members (women and men 18+) personal and social opportunities, both daytime and evenings, whilst supporting Guiding and Scouting. For more details contact secretary kategroves67@gmail.com or 01234 301575
–––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– ST ANDREWS SANDY BOWLING CLUB CONSERVATIVE At Biggleswade Conservative club BOWLING CLUB over one hundred years of friendly our well-established and friendly club with one of the best greens in the county is situated behind the Conservative Club in Bedford Road. we are always happy to welcome new members, whether experienced or new bowlers who will be offered coaching. for further details Phone 01767 680697
bowls on our own green Experienced, or new bowlers who will be offered coaching ,will be most welcome to come and join us. For information call 01767 221243
–––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– BIGGLESWADE JUNIOR SANDY BADMINTON CLUB ASTRONOMICAL Stratton Upper School SOCIETY Saturdays – 2-4pm & 4-5.30pm Founded in 2014 by residents of Sandy and surrounding areas, we are a group of keen astronomers of all abilities. we meet on the first Thursday of every month at Mamas Coffee Shop (High Street, Sandy) and have regular viewing sessions on the grounds of Sandye Place Academy. You don’t need to own a telescope to join in. Club members are always willing to share their equipment and expertise, and if you become a member our club telescopes are available for hire for a small fee. wrap up warm and we’ll see you there!
–––––––––––––––––––– MAYFLOWER 50+ SOCIAL CLUB we meet 2-4 pm on wednesdays at the Labour Hall, Crab Lane, and 2-4pm Fridays at St Andrews Church - both have disabled access. we also run a lighthearted bingo 2-4pm at the Labour Hall on the 2nd & 4th Monday of the month. we play games, cards etc. or just socialise. we have occasional speakers and outings. Entrance £1.50 (plus £1 if bingo) and door-to-door minibus transport is available at £1.50 return. Please contact Iris on 01767 318434 or call or text Brian on mobile 07988 822678 or landline 01767 448954 BiGGLeSWade WeeKLY LUnCh CLUB we meet every wednesday 12-1.45 in the Labour Hall, Crab Lane to enjoy a hot 2 course meal and good company. Food is supplied by a local school. Door to door transport is available at £1.50 and the meal costs £5. Mainly for over 50s. For more details contact Shirley Legate on 01767 448954 or 07988 822678.
New Members welcome More information call Janice Buckle: 01767 312053 Email: biggleswadejbc@btinternet.com
–––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON GARDENS ASSOCIATION If you are interested gardening why not come along to our meetings. we meet the second wednesday of most months of the year in All Saints Church Hall, Cemetery Road Kempston. we have speakers and demonstrations covering every aspect of gardening For further information contact Trevor on
01234 856040 or Marian on 01234 855288
–––––––––––––––––––– BRIDGE CLUB Cranfield Village hall mK43 0dR Sundays 6.50 for 7pm Info email tim.sharrock1@gmail.com
We usually meet on the 1st monday of each month at the addison Centre, Kempston, Bedford over the lunchtime period. Enjoy a meal in great company followed by a talk on a range of interesting topics. why not come & give us a try!! Contact: Andrew on 01234 838407
jack@bremed.co.uk Jack: 01767 692242
ALL WELCOME www.biggleswadetennis.co.uk
–––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– DO YOUR BINS GO BIDDENHAM GARDENERS ASSoCIATIoN OUT MORE THAN tuesday 21st January 2020 YOU? Biddenham Village Hall MY GARDEN
by the Members Visitors very welcome Admission £5 per meeting – includes Raffle & Refreshments
–––––––––––––––––––– BLACK CRICKET KIDS CLUB Great for aspiring animal keepers, entomologists and herpetologists. first Wednesday of every month in Shortstown Village hall, Southcote, Shortstown, Bedford, mK42 0QL. Fun, educational and entertaining sessions for children aged 5 - 13 who love animals, pets and wildlife. Children with SEND are warmly welcomed and sessions are differentiated to meet individual needs. Sessions are £5 per child (siblings £3). Registration is required. www.blackcricket.co.uk/kids-club www.facebook.com/blackcricketkidsclub Email: kidsclub@blackcricket.co.uk
–––––––––––––––––––– BIGGLESWADE WALK 4 HEALTH Regular weekly walks walks for beginners and those looking to improve Mondays at 09:00 am walks of approx. 30-40mins Meet: by the Beeston Notice Board on Beeston Green, Nr. The Crescent, Beeston, SG19 1PL. wednesdays at 10.00am walks of approx. 30-40mins and 60 - 90 mins, Meet: Dan Albone Car Park, Shortmead Street. SG18 0BQ Thursdays at 10.00am walks of approx. 30-40mins and 60 - 90 mins, Meet: Stratton School, Eagle Farm Road. SG18 8JB No NEED To BooK - JUST TURN UP, wHY NoT TRY THEM ALL? For those looking to do a serious walk of 5 miles plus: Tuesday Afternoon 2pm approx Booking essential This walk is not part of walk 4 Health you walk at our own liability/risk. walking with Janette: approx. 90 mins. Start points vary – phone or email Janette for details* Janette Sibley: Tel: 07771 54 0117 e-mail: janette@sibley.me.uk Mike Fayers Bedfordshire Health walks Manager Tel: 01234 832619 email:mikef@bedsrcc.org.uk
–––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– POTTON LADIES’ KEMPSTON SENIOR CLUB CITIZENS’ CLUB Potton Ladies Club meets on the first tuesday of the month at 7.30pm at mill Lane Pavilion, mill Lane Potton. SG19 2PG we have a range of speakers, a lunch club & numerous day trips. Visitors are always welcome for £5, to include light refreshments.
SENIORS EXPERIENCED PL AYERS
DANCING, wHIST, BINGo
Meets Wednesday 10am-12noon Friday 10am-4.00pm CENTENARY HALL, behind Kempston Town Hall, Bedford Road For further information telephone: 01234 347306
then LadieS CiRCLe iS foR YoU! Ladies Circle is a membership club for women aged 18 to 45 who want to make new friends, have lots of fun, do things t whether you’re new to the Biggleswade area, or are just looking to broaden your social life. The group is a perfect way of getting more out of life. Members include single and married women, those with children and those without, working and not working,everyone’s welcome to come along and just be themselves! Email: biggleswadecircle@gmail.com Twitter: @BwadeCircle. Facebook: Biggleswade Ladies Circle MoGGERHANGER KEEP FIT GRoUP
–––––––––––––––––––– at the Village hall, fridays 9.30-10.30. Tina or Josh take us through a lighthearted sequence with a warm-up, exercises designed to improve muscular fitness, brain co-ordination, balance and general well-being, then a cool-down. It’s not over-strenuous, we have fun, feel good – and pay only £5 a session. So why not come and join us? For more information call Tony or Judith on 640124.
GET FIT KEEP FIT
–––––––––––––––––––– ST ANDREWS BOWLING CLUB AT BIGGLESwADE CoNSERVATIVE CLUB over one hundred years of friendly bowls on our own green Experienced, or new bowlers who will be offered coaching, will be most welcome to come and join us. For information please call 01767 221243
–––––––––––––––––––– SANDY WALKS 4 HEALTH Sandy walks 4 Health meet every wednesday. These are free short walks ofabout an hour, with a trained walk leader. No need to book; just turn up. walks start at 10am, meeting in SandyLibrary in the Town centre. For more information contact: Cathy Bailey 01767 692182, or Jane Janaway 01767 691455, or Mike Fayers (Health walks manager) 01234 832619
–––––––––––––––––––– SANDY NIGHT OWLS WOMEN’S INSTITUTE meets on the first Wednesday of each month (except august). 7.30pm friday January 3rd a talk on “The Life of a Royal Footman” Sandy Conservative Club. we are a very friendly group and guests (£4) will receive a very warm welcome and enjoy a varied programme and refreshments. Come along and join us. For more information Email: sandynightowlswi@gmail.com or look at our website www.sandynightowlswi.com.
–––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––– ADDISoN CENTRE KEMPSToN fUnd RaiSinG
TEA DANCE
mondaY 13th Jan 2020 2.00pm to 4.30pm £3.00 (INCL CUPPA) Tel: 01234 851877 or 01234 340997
–––––––––––––––––––– CHRIST THE KING PARISH HALL Sat 11th Jan
TABLE TOP SALE
Harrowden Road, Bedford MK42 0SP 9am to noon. Entry 50p Refreshments available, Tables £5 - must be prebooked. For information call on 01234 965497 friday 24th Jan
AFTERNOON VINTAGE TEA
2pm to 4pm Admission £4 - Tea, home-made cake and friendship For Information call 01234 326291 friday 24th Jan
QUIZ NIGHT
7.30pm start. Tickets £8.00 includes fish and chips. Bar and raffle For information call on 01234 96549
–––––––––––––––––––– BIGGLESWADE TRINITY METHODIST CHURCH January 5th 10.30am Led by Rev. Dalwyn Attwell This is the Annual Covenant service 6.00pm Rev Dalwyn Attwell will lead a service entitled ‘Space for God’ (Probably in welcome area) Sunday 12th January 9.30am A communion service led by Rev. Dalwyn Attwell 10.30am The service will be led by Rev. Dalwyn Attwell Sunday 19th January 10.30am The service will be led by Rev. Stan Short 6.00pm A Churches together evening Venue yet to be confirmed Sunday 26th January 10.30am Service to be led by Mr. Glynne Rowlands
MUSIC ON THURSDAYS
Julia Doyle soprano, Matthew Wadsworth lute 7.45pm, thursday 23 January
Giacomo Susani guitar 7.45pm, thursday 20 february Bunyan meeting
Tickets £18, Students 18-25 £5, Under18 £2 on the door or from 01234 261811 www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk
–––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORD ART SOCIETY friday 3rd January 2020
meeting, 7.15 for 7.30 start, at Putnoe heights Church, Bedford, mK418eB
Local artist Sarah Janavicius is going to show us how she creates her colourful art in mixed media.
Entry is free for members, £5 for visitors. Contact Jean Paterson 01234 307210 or www.bedsartsociety.co.uk for information.
–––––––––––––––––––– SANDY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
What people had in their houses 1600-1700 by david Short
7.30pm, friday 31st January
Stonecroft hall. St Swithins Way, Sandy SG191BB
Admission £2.50 including refreshments Members & Students free
3T’S TODDLER GROUP
We are a (non-profit making) toddler Group who meet at Centenary hall, 104 Bedford Road, Kempston on tuesday from 1.00 pm to 2.30 pm (term time only) Contact: Debbie on 07975 –772-058
–––––––––––––––––––– SANDY WOMEN’S INSTITUTE
Sandy wI was formed in March 2017 and is still going strong. we welcome new members from all age groups and backgrounds. we meet on the third Tuesday of each month (except August) at 10.00am in Sandy Conservative Club.
we have a full programme of speakers and activities and you are very welcome to join us. If you want to give us a try before committing to full membership you can attend as a visitor, cost £4. Contact our President, Val Haygarth, for further information on 01767 691711 valeriehaygarth@btinternet.com..
–––––––––––––––––––– WORLD SHIP SOCIETY BEDFORD BRANCH Kempston Constitution Club
196A Bedford Road, Kempston 3rd THURSDAY in the month
16 January 2020 Branch Member Don McKeand giving a presentation on “Preserved Ships”Telephone: 01234 352014
For further details contact 01767 680171
––––––––––––––––––––
Wednesdays from 7.30pm-10.00pm at Kempston east methodist Church New members welcome
If you are interested in performing (singing acting or dancing) or helping back stage, come along and give us a try. All newcomers welcome!
STEWARTBY
–––––––––––––––––––– AMATEUR OPERATIC AND DRAMATIC KEMPSTON AND SOCIETY DISTRICT MODEL meet, thursdays 7.30 at Stewartby RAILWAY SOCIETY United Church hall, Park Crescent. For further details contact Brian woodcock on 07795251988 or
brianwoodcock@btinternet.com
For tickets and further information, visit our website: www.saods.org.uk.
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12 —
JANUARY 2020 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
BEDFORD BOROUGH EDITION
TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
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Good start for New Year
A GooD ofsted grade under a challenging new national framework was the finale of a year of outstanding achievements for Bedford College staff and students. From a staff member winning the FE Teacher of the Year at the TES Awards (run by the Times Educational Supplement) to a student-turned-staff member taking Gold at the worldSkills for Network Systems Administrator, the trophy cabinet of Bedford College is now bulging. Apprentices, degree-level and full and part time students received awards in all course areas and just some of the best were highlighted at the Bedford College Achievement Ceremony, where Rosetta Publishing, owners of the Bedford Bulletin and Kempston Calling were among high profile sponsors. Ian Pryce CBE, Principal and CEo said: “we celebrate the second year of The Bedford College Group formed by bringing together Bedford College, Shuttleworth College and The Bedford Sixth Form with Tresham College in Northamptonshire. “we now employ 1,200 staff who are all committed to working with our community. To our students we say: Being outstanding is a choice so make the most of the opportunities offered here.” The Student Participation award went to Simon hooton who completed a Fish Management Level 3 course at Shuttleworth College, part of The Bedford College Group, before winning a Shuttleworth Trust award to travel to Japan to study Koi Carp. Three students were nominated for the outstanding Student of the Year. This year’s winner was Joe Chidwick of The Bedford Sixth Form. After studying Maths, Physics, Philosophy and Dance at A Level, Joe won a place at Cambridge University.
The two runners-up were Caleb oliver who having completed the Prince’s Trust Team progressed on to an Animal Care course at Shuttleworth, and eva Cringle a Fine Art Level 3 student who travelled from Germany to study at Bedford College’s South Bank Arts Centre. Eva got to the finals over 4,000 entries in a Space Foundation International Student Art Contest. originally from Germany, Eva moved to the UK through the International Experience (iE) and beat global competition for her work to be exhibited at the 35th Space Symposium and then Space Foundation world Headquarters and Discovery Center in Colorado. The inclusion Champion award went to Student Experience and Progression Manager Will Sparrow. Staff innovator award went to martin Johnson Desktop Technician in IT Services. teacher of the Year was helen day an Advanced Practioner in Animal Science at Shuttleworth College. Allan Schofield, Chair of the Corporation closed the evening by thanking Ian Pryce and his management team for all their hard work, particularly in relation to the recent ofsted success. “our outstanding financial management has meant we have been able to keep investing in projects to benefit out students. For example our exciting new Advanced Engineering Centre at Bedford and the Zoological Education Centre at Shuttleworth.” The event at the Bedford Corn Exchange was supported by local businesses. Gold Sponsors were BedfordBID which promotes the town centre under the Love Bedford brand, Commercial Interiors and Storage, The Harpur Trust, Innovation-site, Rosetta Publishing Ltd and the Sharnbrook Academy Federation.
Performing Arts students who staged great show as part of the evening event
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Resin Bonded • Block paving • Patio slabs • Tarmacadam • Fencing • Turfing • Brickwork • Graveling • Landscaping and much more The Bulletin is an independent publication, part of Rosetta Publishing Ltd. Published by ©2020 Rosetta Publishing Limited, 30 Radwell Road, Milton Ernest Bedford MK44 1SH. Tel: 07894 935952 Editorial: editorial@rosettapublishing.com Advertising: advertising@rosetta publishing.com Printed by: Reach Printing Services, Kimpton Road, Luton, Bedfordshire LU2 0SX.