Biggles & sandy bulletin oct 2016

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BULLETIN SANDY, BEESTON & BIGGLESWADE EDITION

OCTOBER 2016

BREAKFAST CLUB WITH VARIOUS DROP OFF TIMES (7.30AM OR 8.00AM) – BREAKFAST INCLUDED FOR FREE!

PRE-SCHOOL SESSIONS – AM, PM OR ALL DAY. SNACK INCLUDED, NO FEE FOR LUNCH CLUB!

LOOKING FOR A PRE-SCHOOL OR WRAP AROUND CARE FOR YOUR CHILD? LOOK NO FURTHER! BASED ON TWO SITES St Andrews Lower School West Brunts Lane Biggleswade, Beds SG18 0LY

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AFTER SCHOOL CLUB – VARIOUS COLLECTION TIMES TO CHOOSE FROM (4.30PM, 5.30PM OR 6.00PM), SNACK INCLUDED FOR FREE!

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Biggleswade TOWN COUNCIL

COUNCIL MEETINGS:

11 October COUNCIL 25 October COUNCIL 26 October BIGGLESWADE JOINT COMMITTEE – 10am – CBC, Chicksands – Room PH15 8 November COUNCIL

With the exception of the Joint Committee meeting, all meetings are held in the Council Chamber, Saffron Road, Biggleswade and commence at 7pm unless otherwise notified.

ALL MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND PRESS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND

THE ORCHARD COMMUNITY CENTRE LAND EAST OF BIGGLESWADE

Biggleswade Town Council will be taking over responsibility for the new Community Centre Keep an eye on our website for further details.

KNOW YOUR COUNCILLORS

Cllr David Albone Cllr Jonathan Medlock MAYOR Conservative – Stratton Labour – Ivel Cllr Mrs Hazel Ramsay Cllr Michael R North Conservative – Stratton DEPUTY MAYOR Cllr Bernard J Rix Conservative – Holme Independent – Stratton Cllr Peter Biernis Labour – Ivel Cllr Mrs Madeline A Cllr Ian J Bond Russell Conservative – Ivel Conservative – Ivel Cllr Bernard V Briars Cllr Duncan A Strachan Labour – Ivel UKIP – Stratton Cllr Frank S Foster Cllr Steven Watkins UKIP – Ivel Conservative – Stratton Cllr Mark A Foster Independent – Stratton Cllr Timothy P Woodward Cllr Ms Rebecca Kerfoot Labour – Ivel Conservative – Holme

GENERAL MARKETS on the Market Square Tuesdays and Saturdays 8am-4pm

We are currently re-launching our Farmers’ Market as:

FARMERS’ AND CRAFT MARKET Are you a local craft enthusiast?

We would like to invite you to trade on our monthly Farmers’ and Craft Market. The rent is currently only £9.90, we even supply a stall.You will need to hold current Public Liability Insurance and Food Hygiene Certificate (if applicable). If this sounds of interest to you, please call Biggleswade Town Council and ask for Sue or Kay.

FARMERS’ AND CRAFT MARKETS (on the last Wednesday of each month)

26 October and 30 November

On the Market Square 9am – 2pm Where you can buy locally produced meat, pies, cakes, eggs, Bedfordshire Clangers, Handmade Cushions, PVC Oil Cloth Bags (Handbags, Shoppers, Mini Totes, weekend bags, baby bags, purses, coin purses etc), Homewares, Handmade Cards and other paper crafts, and Granite Chopping Boards.

CHARITY STALL BOOKINGS We are now taking bookings for 2017

A £5 deposit is required, and if you are a local Club or Organisation, this will be refunded to you on the day.

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MARKETS Biggleswade Town Council The Old Court House, 4 Saffron Road Biggleswade SG18 8DL Tel: 01767 313134 Fax: 01767 601188 Email: enquiries@biggleswadetowncouncil.gov.uk www.biggleswadetowncouncil.gov.uk

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

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OCTOBER 2016 BULLETIN — 3

Biggest M&S store of 2016 opens in Biggleswade

MARKS & SPENCER (M&S) opened its biggest store of 2016 at Biggleswade Retail Park on Thursday 29 September.

The 61,000 sq. ft. store features M&S Clothing and Homeware and includes a large Foodhall. Local residents were invited to grab a glass of fizz and celebrate the opening when store manager, James Harden, and his team of 130 colleagues cut the ribbon and welcomed customers into the store for the first time The new M&S store brings the very best of M&S products and service to Biggleswade customers. The extensive Womenswear department will feature M&S’s most popular brands including, Indigo, Collection, Classic and Per Una offering quality, stylish garments and great value essentials. There is also a fantastic offer in the Menswear, Kidswear and Homeware departments.

The first 50 customers through the doors were given a special M&S goody bag. Throughout the day there was instore sampling of the very best M&S

food products and a chance to ‘ask the experts’ in various departments around the store.

For shoppers looking to enjoy M&S’s special, innovative food, the new 9,000 sq.ft Foodhall offers the full range of M&S food with over 6,000 products available, including the latest innovations in health and convenience food.

For those looking for somewhere to enjoy a coffee and cake or a catch up with friends over lunch the store features a 130-seater café.

130 JOBS M&S Biggleswade will bring 130 jobs to the area, ranging from Customer Assistants to Visual Merchandising and Hospitality. The store is recruiting now, those wishing to find out more or apply should visit https://jobs.marksand spencer.com.

Store manager, James Harden said: “We’re excited about bringing the biggest M&S store for 2016 to Biggleswade and I can’t wait to hear customer’s reactions on the extensive offer we will be unveiling.

“From a selection of special and innovative food to a new Autumn wardrobe, customers can shop our full collection.”

M&S Biggleswade will not only bring a great store experience to the town, but customers can also collect their M&S.com orders in store for free.

Collect in Store has been specially designed to give customers space to open their products up before taking them home. There will be a dedicated member of staff to assist them.

M&S Biggleswade will be open 8am – 8pm Monday – Saturday and 10am – 4:30pm on Sundays.

GIVE YOUR KITCHEN A FACELIFT We are replacement kitchen doors and kitchen refurbishment specialists since 1980 SOLID WOOD, PAINTED AND LAMINATED FINISHES OVER 500 STYLES AND COLOURS

Restoration success The flowering heather on the restored new heath at RSPB The Lodge is looking stunning this year. Work will continue during the winter months to clear the habitat of unwanted birch saplings, bramble and other growth to allow the area to improve for wildlife in future years.

KitchenDoor Solutions Contact: Iain Smith on 01234 389063 or 07583 869741 iain@kitchendoorsolutions.co.uk ALL BEDS

4 — BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

Little Guiding Light of Mine!

This little guiding light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine!

Guiding Biggleswade District are certainly letting their guiding light shine.

With a thriving guiding community in Biggleswade District which covers; Biggleswade, Langford, Upper Caldecote, Northill & Ickwell, they currently provide an amazing 279 girls and young women with guiding activities every week.

Biggleswade District’s 89 leaders and volunteers provide an amazing guiding experience for the girls of all sections.

In 2016 girls are in charge of their guiding experience with our programmes designed around putting girls in the lead.

Hide it under a bushel, no I’m gonna let it shine!

Girls participating in guiding locally are definitely not hiding their love of guiding under a bushel. Over the last few months we have seen amazing activities and events which the girls have got involved in: • 100+ girls celebrate the Queen’s Birthday with a fabulous (if a bit damp) birthday party • Guides have been off to camp, living it up in fields, cooking on open fires and leaving their electronic devices at home – LOL • Our Guides and Senior Section

headed off to BIG GIG, to see the likes of Matt DeFreitas, Imani and Jess Glynne to name a few.

Take my little light round the World, I’m gonna let it shine!

Opportunities for international travel and experiences in 2016 are brilliant. As part of an international family of guiding, older Guides and Senior Section members can take part in trips to other countries, world jamborees and social projects across the world.

In 2016 we have girls visiting Thailand at Christmas for a World Jamboree, Costa Rica. These are fabulous experiences for the girls from which they can build brilliant life skills, communication, self discovery and resilience.

These trips get the girls developing their skills in areas around planning, fund raising, budgeting. All whilst making amazing memories, through fun and travel.

Don’t you blow my little light out I’m gonna let it shine

Guiding in Biggleswade provides experiences for all sections of guiding Rainbows (5-7), Brownies (7-10) Guides (10-14) Senior Section (14-26).

The units are run by amazing ladies and gents who volunteer their time every week and year, to provide regular, exciting, fun experiences. They plan and execute their unit programmes, residential stays, and tips with enthusiasm and care.

This they do not for pay or reward, but for their love of guiding and a desire to give girls of all ages opportunities which will create fun, laughter and memories forever.

BUT, we need more volunteers across all sections to support our programme.

At the moment we have long lists of girls wanting to join Rainbows in the district.

We are looking for leaders to support our existing units so

that they can take more girls. Or volunteers who would be happy to build a team and open up their own units. Guiding in 2016 is totally flexible and can be run evenings, weekends, weekly, fortnightly dependent on the availability of volunteers.

So if you are: • enthusiastic about young people • enjoying having fun • have energy and regular spare hours to fill Then being a guiding volunteer could be right for you, simply follow the link below to our volunteering enquires website, register you details for Guiding in Biggleswade District and we will be in touch. We really are waiting for you.

For more information go to: www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested

Let it shine, all the time, let it shine

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SG19 pressing for bypass option

The SG19 Road Safety Group continues to press for the construction of a proper bypass for Sandy and Beeston, working with highways england’s A1 east of england Strategic Study which calls for major improvements to the route of the A1 through our area.

The study includes two other options; neither of which offers a proper solution to the problems of congestion, pollution and dangers for residents. One option is to do very little while the second is to improve certain junctions, possibly with flyovers or small sections of new road to bypass ‘hot spots’.

Neither of these options offer a proper solution as they are piecemeal and merely move problems from one point to another.

It is important that we stress the need for a proper bypass is both obvious and long overdue.

The Strategic Study must not divert its attention from the major and urgent problems in our stretch of the A1, extending from Baldock to Alconbury, in favour of congestion on other parts of the A1 from the M25 to Peterborough that have long since been raised to motorway standard.

It will be public opinion that sways the decision makers and our petition is designed to do just that.

If you have yet to do so, please sign it online via our website – www.SG19.org – to support our views that priority needs to be given to building a proper bypass for Sandy and Beeston.

Biggleswade Christmas Fair BIGGleSwAde Town Council are pleased to announce that the Biggleswade Christmas Fair will take place on Friday 25th November.

This year’s event builds on the success of previous years, which has seen an increasing number of local people of all ages taking part, creating a real community feeling.

A fun filled day of Christmas entertainment is planned. entertainment starts from midday with schools and community groups performing on stage in the Market Square throughout the afternoon. we are delighted to welcome the Stotfold Salvation Army Band

once again to support the community carols before the countdown to switching on the Christmas lights in the evening.

Throughout the day visitors will be able to enjoy a variety of hot foods and browse craft stalls to find a selection of hand crafted gifts and decorations. Children will be able to enjoy fairground rides and of course we are all hoping for a visit from Father Christmas.

More information will be available nearer the time as details are finalised. In the meantime, please make sure that the date is marked on your calendar so that you don’t miss this very special event.

Friday 25th November 2016

OCTOBER 2016 BULLETIN — 5

Sandy Christmas Lights THIS year’s Christmas lights switch-on event will be held on Sunday December 4th and the management team is already planning a number of additional attractions for this year. The celebrations will begin earlier than in the past with the RSPB kindly agreeing to kick off proceedings with a lantern walk at the Lodge in the morning followed by mulled wine refreshments.

Those walkers who still have sufficient energy will then make their way down into Sandy to meet up with Santa’s procession which will set off for the town centre at around 13.50.

As before we are intending to have a full programme of stage acts featuring local schools and community groups between 13.30 and 17.15.

The actual switch-on will be performed by the Prince and Princess together with the town mayor at 16.30. There will of course be the usual funfair, plenty of festive stalls, an exhibition of paintings by local artists Art out of Ten in the Baptist chapel as well as other attractions. We have also set up a competition for local children to design their own Christmas light.

The winning entry will not only receive a prize but will have his/her entry made up into a real light to feature in this year’s lights display.

A large public event like this takes a huge amount of planning and organisation and as ever, we are in urgent need of community volunteers who can spare a bit of time to help both on the day itself or beforehand and several evening meetings are being scheduled in October and November to put everything in place.

If you are able to help out we would be extremely grateful and please contact the Council on 01767 681491 for further details and any information about the event itself.

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

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OCTOBER 2016 BULLETIN — 7

£70k celebrations for Angela’s Fund

A SPONTANeOuS Celebration Party was held recently, hosted by Mark Butcher, as Angela’s Small Cell Ovarian Cancer Research Fund at The eve Appeal rapidly hit the £70,000! It was only April 2016 that the Fund had reached £40k, which was followed in July by the simultaneous celebrations of £50k and £60k.

Momentum is certainly gaining, not only on the fundraising side, which Angela started upon diagnosis in September 2012 but with the full support of The eve Appeal and Researchers, who are currently putting forward proposals for the development of this pioneering research, to make the Patient Research Registry, launched only in April, into a valuable resource for clinicians and patients www. sc-ovca.org – originally a 15 month project. due to the funds raised to date, this has now been extended to 2.5 years, which will be carried out at the university College london hospital and the Cambridge Genetic Research Centre, supported by an International consortium of researchers. linda Butcher says: “People are beginning to realise that every penny counts and it’s going directly to Angela’s Fund to extend research. with regular transparent financial updates, the awareness is stirring additional interest from individuals, families and organisations who want to support.

“Much more is needed, however, to turn this into a commitment of five years’ Research, leading to clinical trials and also to fulfil Angela’s mission in the last few weeks of her life, to give hope to others. her inspiration is at the very heart of our fundraising and annually in September, we hand over all the five pence pieces that have been collected by so many people, as she loved to collect them. hopefully last year’s total will again be beaten.”

The next fundraising event will be a Clairvoyance evening with denise Newman, organised by Kate wood and will be held at the Social Club, Biggleswade on Saturday evening 29 October 2016.

Tickets are on sale now (£10 each) and there will be a bumper raffle on the night. If you’d like to support Angela’s small cell ovarian cancer research fund and be part of history in the making, please contact linda on 07730 319209 or message Mark James Butcher on facebook

Protect your little ones with a free flu vaccine

TheRe is good news for parents of young children – this year, the free flu vaccination will be available to more children as the age range is being extended to include seven year olds.

This year, all two, three and four year-olds and children in school years one, two and three are being offered the free flu vaccination.

Young children are especially vulnerable to getting flu and are also more likely to spread the virus because they generally don’t use tissues properly or wash their hands.

Protecting your child can stop flu spreading to other children and others

that are vulnerable to flu, such as babies, older people, pregnant women and people with serious long-term illnesses.

For young children, the flu vaccination comes in the form of a simple nasal spray. Not only is it needle-free, this quick and painless spray up each nostril, works even better than the injected flu vaccine. The vaccine is absorbed very quickly and will still work even if, after the vaccination, your child develops a runny nose, sneezes or blows their nose.

Children aged two, three and four years can receive their free flu vaccine at their local GP surgery. Children in school years one, two and three will

receive the flu vaccine at school.

As well as young children, the flu vaccine is available free of charge to pregnant women, carers, people in long term care facilities, anyone with a long term health condition, such as heart disease, diabetes or neurological conditions, and people over 65.

If you are in one of these eligible groups, you can receive your free flu vaccine from your GP or local pharmacy.

If you aren’t eligible for a free flu jab, you can still receive the vaccination from your local pharmacy for a small fee.

8 — BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

SANDY TOWN COUNCIL

AUTUMN AND WINTER TALKS The first Talk will be given by Michael Morris, Baron Naseby, PC of Sandy and is entitled– ‘Parliament through 40 years of challenge and change’ lord Naseby’s interest in politics started in India where he worked and was kindled into a spark in Sri lanka. On his return to england he took a keen interest in Conservative local politics and he became leader of Islington Council. In 1973 he and his wife moved to Caesar’s Camp,

Sandy. he was selected to fight the marginal seat of Northampton South that summer.

There were two elections in 1974 and he won both until losing the election of 1997. In those varied 23 years he had a varied career in the Commons, but was never a minister. he had ten years on the Public Accounts Committee, eight years on the Council of europe and for his last five years he was elected Chairman of ways and Means as well as 1st deputy Speaker.

Although he lost his seat in the

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Commons there was a long tradition that the Chairman of ways and Means went to the house of lords where he has been for the last eighteen years. he is an active Member with a wide spectrum of interests and knowledge. This will be a fascinating talk by a local parliamentarian sharing with us his experiences through seven Prime Ministers.

The Talk will be held in the Council Chamber on Friday 7th October at 7.30pm. Refreshments will be served in aid of the Sandy branch of The leprosy Mission The next Talk will be given by George howe and is called ‘The Great Northern Railway through Bedfordshire’.

This Talk by local historian George howe will be about his vast knowledge about the Great Northern Railway, concentrating on the Sandy and Biggleswade areas.

The Talk will be held in the Sandy Baptist Church hall, Bedford Road, Sandy on Monday 14th November at 7.30pm. Refreshments will be served in aid of the Sandy Christmas lights.

The final Talk of the year will be given by Sandy resident and businessman Richard Banks about ‘Growing a Business in Sandy’.

Richard Banks, together with his brother took over the business of Banks of Sandy in 1974. They built up the business and its area expanded to cover half of the united Kingdom with the hQ still located in Sandy. The business entered into rice milling and lorry maintenance and at its peak employed 650 people. Richard was Captain of Sandy Cricket Club, President of the east of england Agricultural Society, a founding Chairman of the Agriculture Industries Confederation (AIC) and high Sheriff of Bedfordshire in 2006 The Talk will be held in the Sandy Baptist Church hall, Bedford Road, Sandy on wednesday 14th December at 7.30pm. Refreshments will be served in aid of the Sandy Carnival.

The costs of the Talks are £5.50 per person and payment is required on booking. Please note that no refunds are available unless the Council cancels or changes the date of the Talk.

Sandy Town Council, 10 Cambridge Road, Sandy SG19 1Je Tel: 01767 681491 admin@sandytowncouncil.gov.uk www.sandytowncouncil.gov.uk

SANDY TOWN COUNCIL TOWN COUNCIL SE EKS NEW MEMBER

Could you be a Council lor?

Do you have an intere st in town affairs?

Can you make a differ ence?

Do you have spare tim e to help us do the best for the community?

Sandy Town Council wa nts onto the council. Followi to co-opt a new member ng the resignation of a Councillor there is a vac ancy for a member representing Pinnacle Wa are invited from applican rd. Expressions of interest ts who must be over 18 be an elector, live or wo and rk in or near Sandy and be a citizen of the EU or the Commonwealth.

Application forms and mo found on the Town Coun re information can be cil’s website www.sandytowncoun cil on the front page or by .gov.uk in the news section dir Council offices at 10 Ca ect application to the Town mbridge Road, Sandy.

Completed forms must be Clerk no later than noon submitted to the Town on 14th October 2016.

The Town Council inten ds to select its new memb a meeting on Monday er at 24th October 2016.

CILLORS ARD N U O C N W TOW PINNACLE ARD N Aldis

Cllr P IVEL W ARD e 01767 691333 t, BEESTON W Cllr P Blain 7 Mayfield Cour F tt co S 19 26 P Cllr M 01767 69 Sandy SG19 1N ail.com 57 14 e, 68 os 7 Cl Home 0176 19 Poplar nigel.aldis1@gm 83 H 09 1H 68 7 19 Work 0176 Sandy SG .com ton ail ing gm dd e@ Se ” ain ns .bl Cllr J Ali “The Gowa peterblaine 07962 361102 North Road 01767 689743 orre, Nursery, Great y SG19 1NZ ill H M llr ua nd C Sq Sa et , ark 22 M Seddington A rnet.com 01767 681469 eston, Sandy SG19 1J scott729@btinte 21 The Green, Be ne or sb O C E Cllr SG19 1P ARD amaxhill@outlook.com. .B.E., J.P. W M D EL FI W FALLO 01767 682032 Leeds Smith son 2 Cllr W Jack Summercourt, 19 1LU 49 Cllr T Cole 25 01767 68 , Sandy SG 88 ive 98 s, Dr 69 en 7 rd 76 Ga 01 ld e Hom 14 Westfie e, F Sharman 1 Partridge Piec P Sandy SG19 1H btinternet.com Cllr D 68 2U 19 2@ SG 68 66 y 7 on Sand 0176 38 Sandy SG19 2TA will.jacks tmail.co.uk teresacole@ho 21 Falcon Close, tt ti et P J Cllr M h ow ac Le G 82 00 llr C Cllr J Sparr 01767 68 e Gardens, 01767 682693 Council 42 Swansholm L 01767 681491 Council Town Sandy SG19 1H ginmedia.com C/o Sandy ge Road, C/o Sandy Town ad, Ro 10 Cambrid E martin.pettitt@vir 10 Cambridge E Sandy SG19 1J ton Sandy SG19 1J council.gov.uk Cllr S J Sut wn admin@sandyto 89 75 22 EXISTS IN 01767 ONE VACANCY D an , AR W Cllr P Sharm 33 Bedford Road LE AC NN PI P Sandy SG19 1E 07889 599556 t, 3 Swallow Cres N Sandy SG19 2S

COUNCIL MEETING DATES All meetings commence at 7.30pm except Development Scrutiny Committee (Planning) which starts at 6.30pm in the Council Chamber, 10 Cambridge Road, Sandy SG19 1JE

Monday 10 October 2016 Policy Finance & Resources Monday 17 October 2016 Development Scrutiny Monday 24 October 2016 Town Council Monday 7 November 2016 Development Scrutiny Community Services & Environment See our website for details of other meetings ALL MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND PRESS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND

HIGH STREET IMPROVEMEN T SCHEME Central Beds Co

uncil Improvement Sche has launched its High Street businesses with sh me to assist local high street op front enhancem Businesses and La ndlords may be el ent work.

60% of the total co igible for up to st expert advice from s of enhancement work and Any interested bu builders, architects and designers. sinesses should co Council for more ntact the Town information.

T MAS LIGHTS EVEN SANDY’S CHRIST y ntl tmas Lights are curre

Friends of Sandy Chris m individuals and groups who fro accepting applications s year’s switch on event. thi at lls wish to run sta r 2016, Sunday 4th Decembe The switch on will be on stall on the day please a if you would like to have Sandy Town Council for c/o , on ks y and contact Will Jac Stalls cost £15 for the da information and a form. e their own table. vid holders will need to pro

10 Cambridge Road, Sandy SG19 1JE Tel: 01767 681491 Fax: 01767 692527 admin@sandytowncouncil.gov.uk www.sandytowncouncil.gov.uk

10 — BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

The 50th ‘Golden Jubilee’ Sandy Show 2016 PRIZE winning horticultural displays of vegetables blooms, fruits, plants, along with home baking, brewing, floral art and all kinds of crafts were displayed at the 50th ‘Golden Jubilee’ Sandy Show last month, which was held at Sandye Place Academy.

The annual show was very well attended again despite the blustery damp weather. As well as the exhibits there was an animal encounters experience and birds of prey along with craft stalls, live music, face painting and bouncy castle, refreshments and a bumper raffle.

Prize presentations after the show were made by Ms Ruth Bell Deputy Lieutenant of Bedfordshire. The committee would like to thank all the sponsors and helpers for making it another very successful day. Photos from the show can be viewed at www.thesandyshow.org.uk

Awards & Trophies – Sandy Show 2016

The RhS Banksian Medal ........................................................................................................Tony Munns The National dahlia Society Silver Medal ..................................................................................Roger day The National dahlia Society Bronze Medal ........................................................................Mark Pattenden The worshipful Company of Gardeners diplomas for .........................................Tony Munns (Vegetables) excellence in horticulture....................................................................................Stephen Ralph (Salads) The worshipful Company of ..........................................................................Cameron Rhoden (Class 148) Gardeners Award ...............................................................................................elijah Thomas (Class 78) The Bedford Cup (for the most points in the entire Show) .................................................Richard Marriott The ernest hereford Memorial Bowl (for the most points in the entire show)...................Richard Marriott The Ken Quince Cup (for the best exhibit in classes 2-3) .........................................................Tony Munns The Clemens’ Novice Cup (for the most points in Class 4) ....................................................... lynda Scott The George Truin Cup (for the best exhibit in classes 5-21) ....................................................Ian hodgson The Onion Cup (for the winner in class 12A) ....................................................................Richard Marriott The Beed Cup (for the best exhibit in section B) ....................................................................debbie wallis The May Chatterley Cup (for the best exhibit in section C) ........................................................Roger day The wooton Shields for Class 44 .......................................................................................Richard Marriott The wooton Shields for Class 36-43 ............................................................................................Roger day The wooton Shields for Class 42-45 ..................................................................................Richard Marriott The Jim Martin Shield (for the best exhibit in class 48) ...............................................................Roger day The Glenn Cup (for the best exhibit in section d) .............................................................Rebecca Marriott The Foster Bowl (for the Sandy Parish resident exhibiting the best pot plan) ....................was not awarded The Zwetsloot Bowl (for the best exhibit in class 53-55) ...................................................Mrs G. hodgson The Aubrey Brawn Cup (for the best exhibit in class 69-72) ....................................................Tony Munns The ebutt Cactus Cup (for the best exhibit in class 73 & 74) .............................................Richard Marriott The ebutt Succulent Cup (for the best exhibit in classes 75 and 76) ........................................Tony Munns The President’s Cup (for the best exhibit in section e) was not awarded The Aw Barnes Tray (for the best exhibit in section F) .......................................................Katherine Mills The handicraft Cup (for the best exhibit in class 95-99) ......................................................Trudie Bonnett The Ann Messenger Shield (for the best exhibit in class 101-103) ........................................Tina Papworth The Sandy enhancement Group Trophy (for the best exhibit in classes 107, 170 and 171) ......Nigel Aldiss The Baker’s Cup (for the best exhibit in section h) .....................................................................Jane Sykes The Top That Sugarcraft Trophy (for best exibit in classes 119-124) ......................................Jeanette Bray The Preserves Cup (for the best exhibit in section J) J ...................................................................ane Sykes The Junior Trophy (for the most points in section l) ............................................................Toby Papworth The Phyllis Bickerdike Cup (for the best exhibit in section l) .........................................Cameron Rhoden The R. whiteman Cup for class 148 .................................................................................Cameron Rhoden The R. whiteman Cup for class 152 soft handicraft ............................................................Amelia Nichols The Natures Cup - Vegetables ......................................................................................................emily Cox The Natures Cup - Flowers ............................................................................................... Cameron Rhoden The Foster Junior Cup ..........................................................................................................Tristan Rhoden The Christine Simpson Memorial Trophy (for the best exhibit Classes 119-122)...................emma Brown RP Gates & Sons Sandy Top Tray .............................................................................................Ian hodgson The wine Cup (for best exhibit in Section K) .............................................................................Kay eldred Ron & effy Munns Memorial Plate (for highest total scoring exhibitor in classes 5-27) ...Richard Marriott Sam & Ivy dockree Shield (for the best display in the entire Show). ..................Cakes & Crafts by donna The Sandy Top Vase (for the best exhibit in Class 50)............................................................ Mr whiteman Mrs Vera Barber Tray (for services to the Sandy Show) .......................................................Steve Purchase

A presentation of trophies will take place at Sandy Conservative Bowls Pavilion after the Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 12th Oct which starts at 7.30. p.m.

For more information see website www.thesandyshow.org.uk

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

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OCTOBER 2016 BULLETIN — 11

12 — BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

View from

In Focus with

Bishop Richard

Alistair

by Rt Revd Richard Atkinson Bishop of Bedford

by Rt Hon Alistair Burt MP

ALL GOOD GIFTS AROUND US

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

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

This harvest celebration struck a chord and harvest services continue to this day; occasions for farming communities in particular, but also for all of us, to give thanks for the fruit of the earth, for its harvest and those who bring it in. having said that, the theme of thanksgiving for harvest is an ancient one. Farming communities also had their local ways of celebrating the successful bringing in of the crops. what Revd hawker did was to make it a much loved part of the church’s year.

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

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

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

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JOY OF SPORT BEYOND THE GILDED ELITES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

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OCTOBER 2016 BULLETIN — 13

Monthly update from the Police and Crime Commissioner

by Kathryn Holloway

NEW DEAL FOR PARISHES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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14 — BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

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Dancers take top prizes at world championships

dANCeRS from Bedfordshire’s premier dance school, dancevybz, beat teams from across the globe to take top podium positions in team and individual categories at the 2016 udO world Street dance Championships at the SeCC in Glasgow at the weekend.

Four teams from the school achieved top ten positions: over 18 quad wolva claimed fourth place in their age category and u14 team Outlawed secured fifth place, while u14 team lilvybz and u18 team Frenzy ranked eighth and tenth respectively.

In the individual categories, the school’s youngest dancer, George Gibson, just five years old, came fifth in the u6 solos competition, while Ruby Seymour, seven, came fourth in the u8 solos category. Bella Gibson and Tom Skoines, both just seven years old, came fifth in the u8 duos competition, and took fifth and sixth place respectively in the u8 solos final. Callum duggan, eight, came fifth in the u10 solos competition and Jack Skoines, 13, came fifth in the u14 solos category. dancevybz founder Stephanie Massey said: “Our achievements at the world Championships this weekend are strongest results we’ve had at international level since we started the school 10 years ago. I’m incredibly proud of all the dancers that attended the competition, and the way in which they represented the county and our country, but also of the commitment, hard work and passion of our teachers, without whom none of this would be possible.” dancevybz teams have performed all over the world.

Our adult team execute have previously ranked third in the world, and our boys crew Kazzum has won the uK hip hop Championships, competed in las Vegas, and reached the live finals of Sky One’s ‘Got to dance’ in 2012.

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TOWN COUNCIL SEEKS NEW MEMBER

SANdY Town Council wants to co-opt a new member onto the council. Following the resignation of a Councillor there is a vacancy for a member representing Pinnacle ward. expressions of interest are invited from applicants who must be over 18 and be an elector, live or work in or near Sandy and be a citizen of the eu or the Commonwealth.

Application forms and more information can be found on the Town Council’s website www. sandytowncouncil.gov.uk in the news section on the front page or by direct application to the Town Council offices at 10 Cambridge Road, Sandy.

Completed forms must be submitted to the Town Clerk no later than noon on 14th October 2016. The Town Council intends to select its new member at a meeting on Monday 24th October 2016.

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CARERS IN BEDFORDSHIRE

dO you look after someone who is ill, frail, disabled or has additional needs. If so you are a family carer and we are here to help. local carers groups, carers cafes, carers choir, grants and training available.

Please contact Sally or dawn on 01767 315079 for more information.

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OCTOBER 2016 BULLETIN — 15

Development land needed for elderly

The Office for National Statistics have published figures that show that in 2025 there will be a 22% increase in the number of people aged 65 in the uK. This translates to a population of 14.3 million people aged over 65, compared to 11.7 million in 2015. The number of people aged over 85 is set to double in the next 20 years.

There is therefore an ever increasing need to provide sufficient and appropriate accommodation for old people. As the population gets older, the housing needs for people are changing. The gap is growing between supply and demand of available properties that provide care and extra care facilities. It is also more common now for local authorities to devolve their powers for providing accommodation with care or extra care facilities to specialist providers.

Managing the Accommodation Needs of Older People (MANOP) team at Central Bedfordshire Council is actively promoting the open market development of extra care schemes across the district, as well as requiring mainstream housing designed to meet the needs of older people. The MANOP team is seeking to ensure

that adequate provision is made for older people in its residential development schemes.

The Council have said that small scale development within or on the edges of towns or villages is preferable, as people like to stay close to their local community. It’s also important for housing for older people to be located close to services and facilities. The MANOP team said: “as over 75% of our older population own their homes there is a significant demand for open market extra care housing and there are currently no open market schemes in our area.”

There are opportunities now to pursue sites through the planning process that are in accessible locations, on the edges of towns or villages to meet the housing needs of older people. In some cases the provision of such accommodation may help to facilitate the delivery of the residential scheme.

If you have land that you consider may be suitable for this purpose or you wish to discuss this opportunity further, then please get in touch with us. Call or email Andrew Barr on 01234 362926 ahb@robinsonandhall.co.uk

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16 — BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

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EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

Carers in Bedfordshire

Biggleswade Community Agent A NEW source of support is available to the residents of Biggleswade. Gill Reeves has been appointed as a Community Agent for Biggleswade. Gill will be seeking to help residents access information and services; particularly those struggling with an issue and don’t know where to turn for help, or who are feeling socially isolated. The service is free and confidential and includes signposting to statutory and voluntary organisations; and community groups.

Gill can talk to you over the phone or visit you at home to help with things such as; feeling safer at home, completing forms, becoming healthier, pensions and benefits, support for carers, transport options, joining a local group, local volunteering opportunities, housing issues or anything else. If you, or someone you know, could benefit from this support, please call Gill on 07534 484750, or e-mail her at gillr@bedsrcc.org.uk Gill is DBS checked and usually works 9-2.30 Monday, Tuesday and Thursday.

The Biggleswade Community Agent post is hosted by Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity and is largely funded by Biggleswade Town Council.

Wenta, helps national charity to deliver self-employment advice

leAdING enterprise agency for hertfordshire and Bedfordshire, wenta, have provided essential training on self-employment to over 220 employment advisers at national charity, The Shaw Trust, following a recent partnership.

This training has provided advisers at The Shaw Trust with vital advice, information and tools needed to help their clients – particularly those that are disabled or ‘hard to reach’ and looking to set up their own business. The Shaw Trust, formed in 1982, now supports over 50,000 people a year to live independent and inclusive lives nationwide. wenta, a social enterprise that has been providing support and advice to those considering, starting and growing their own business for over 32 years, are proud to have played a vital part in this support. 20 bespoke workshops were delivered by wenta trainers at multiple ‘Shaw Trust’ locations from Portsmouth to Glasgow.

Advisers at The Shaw Trust now also have access to wenta’s award-winning online, live chat, business advice platform which has proved to be a popular tool for advisers to access ongoing support, resources and immediate advice when needed.

Commenting on the partnership, Sharon Gaffney, head of education and Skills at wenta, said: “This has been an exciting and innovative project. The course was interactive and involved Shaw Trust Advisers creating ‘mock businesses’ – enabling them to understand the concept fully. It is extremely rewarding to know we are helping people nationally to achieve their dream of running their own business.”

If you’re thinking of starting a business, looking for support with an existing one, or would like ‘self-employment training’ delivered within your organisation, get in touch with wenta today at www.wenta.co.uk.

dId you know there are over six million unpaid carers in the uK? That means one in ten adults in the uK is a carer. Around half of carers in england said their health had been affected because of the care they provide. Many give up an income, future employment prospects and pension rights to become a carer.

It is also thought that up to 700,000 children could be caring for family members or friends.

Recent statistics from the Young Carers breaks project at Carers in Bedfordshire report that an average of 74% of young carers suffer from stress, anxiety or depression due to their caring role.

Carers in Bedfordshire is a charity which helps family carers and former carers cope with the mental and physical stresses arising from their role. A family carer is anyone, of any age, who as a part of their normal life, offers help and support to a relative or friend who could not manage without them.

Our local office at the Sea Cadet hQ in Station Road offers an opportunity to seek one to one support advice, information, groups , training and a regular Carers newsletter. Carers can enjoy being part of our Carers choir, access relaxation therapies or find information about carers grants. we would love to hear from any family carers who feel they would like to register with us and find out more about our service.

For further information go to www.carersinbeds.org.uk or call the Biggleswade office on 01767 315079.

Did you know you can have your leaflet delivered with the Bulletin?

Reach over 12,000 homes in Sandy and Biggleswade with your leaflet. We also provide a full design and print service.

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TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

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OCTOBER 2016 BULLETIN — 17

Ivel Sprinter celebrates its 25th anniversary in style

ON Sunday 4th September Ivel Sprinter celebrated their 25th Anniversary with a wonderful attendance of over 70 people at a special Afternoon Tea at the Conservative Club in Biggleswade.

They were also honoured with the presence of David Albone Mayor of Biggleswade and the Rt. Hon. Alastair Burt MP. The service continues to flourish with a great team of volunteer drivers and committee.

The Ivel Sprinter operates a hail and ride bus service around

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the local towns and villages including Biggleswade, Langford, Sandy, Potton, Everton and Tempsford to facilitate visits to Doctors, shops, libraries etc. They also run to Bedford, St Neots and Cambridge.

Currently they are seeking a person (perhaps a recent retiree) to look after the general day to day maintenance of our two vehicles. If you are that person please contact our Secretary Gerry Amsden on 01767 260797.

Return your dull & marked traditional pine wood floor boards or parquet flooring back to their former glory

Paul Quinnell at Biggleswade Flooring has been sanding wooden floors since 1987

Paul says: “I pride myself on old fashioned honest craftsmanship. I am happy to provide advice on options to suit your taste and budget whether that means repairing patches, full floor sanding, natural wood colours or stains and grades of hard wearing finishes.”

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18 — BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

Ben Tuck dominant at Croft meeting FReSh from his maiden podium at Oulton Park last month, Ben Tuck carried the momentum in emphatic style by dominating the latest round of the Caterham Supersport Championship at Croft in Yorkshire last weekend with a win, a second place and the Caterham Supersport lap record.

After a nail biting qualifying session, Ben was just being pipped to pole by the eventual title champion, william Smith by 0.19s. After qualifying Ben was happy with the car.

“The car has been strong all through testing and we were quickest in most sessions in practice. we’ve barely changed anything apart from a broken suspension part so I’m confident

that we have the pace today.”

At the start of Race 1, Ben comfortably slotted in behind the leader as the top four quickly broke away.

After seven laps Ben made a move into the lead and holding it until lap 11 after which the top pair constantly swapped positions in a superb display of close combat fighting only inches apart. By the final lap, Ben was pushing william on as the top three led the field by ten seconds, with Ben taking the flag a very close second and also the Supersport lap record along with it.

Race 2 was late on the following day as the weather continued to be fine and dry. Starting on the grid again in second place, Ben felt he

East Anglian turtle doves will reveal more migration secrets

SIx new satellite tagged birds to build on legacy of Titan – the first uK turtle dove tracked to Africa and back Six turtle doves are being satellite tracked from their breeding grounds in the uK to their wintering grounds in west Africa, to help scientists better understand why numbers are crashing so rapidly.

According to the recent uK Breeding Bird Survey, the number of turtle doves has declined by 93% since 1994. last year, in a uK science first, the RSPB revealed the complete migration route of a satellite tagged, uK breeding turtle dove, named Titan, which provided valuable data in the conservation fight to help save the species from uK extinction.

Titan was fitted with his satellite tag in on the Suffolk Coast in the summer of 2014 and his return migration to Africa that autumn and the following spring was followed

by RSPB researchers in the uK. Titan’s satellite signal was lost earlier this year when he was in Mali.

Now, the RSPB, in partnership with Operation Turtle dove (OTd), are following six more.

John Mallord, of the RSPB Centre for Conservation Science, said: “The purring of a turtle dove used to be the sound of summer but sadly due to a huge decline in numbers is now rare or non-existent.” “we have discovered a lot from Titan, including his exact migration route, important stopover sites and multiple wintering locations, and even how these vary between years in response to environmental conditions. he is also the first turtle dove in the world to be tracked over two consecutive years, giving us a

unique opportunity to compare and contrast his behaviour over two successive migratory cycles.”

Recognising the importance of the data gathered by tracking Titan, but realising there is only a limited amount you can learn from just one bird, the RSPB obtained permission to catch and fit more turtle doves satellite tags this summer at different locations across east Anglia.

It’s hoped this new data will continue to provide crucial information about what turtle doves need and the threats they might face whilst on migration as well as on their breeding grounds here in the uK. John continued: “It’s really exciting to have been able to tag more birds so that we can learn more about the routes they take to and from Africa. Once we have a clear picture of the areas they overwinter, and the threats they may face, we can support local conservation groups in promoting the sustainable use of the forests, feeding grounds and watering holes the birds rely on.”

As the six newly tagged birds prepare to leave the uK for their wintering ground in Africa, RSPB Centre for Conservation Science are inviting the public to follow their journey through a newly launched website. People will be able to see images of the birds, track their incredible 5,600km migration route live and discover their fascinating stopover points along the way.

Supporters also have the opportunity to name one of the turtle doves, in an attempt to raise awareness of a bird on the brink of extinction in the uK. To find out more visit www.rspb.org.uk/turtledovetracking

had every chance of achieving his first win of the season.

As they got away he calmly followed the leader through the first set of corners until a smooth and confident move at the end of the back straight saw him take the lead. For the remainder of the race Ben calmly put in metronomic laps consistent to 0.25 of a second with times that not even the championship leader could match. In clear air, without the benefit of the ‘tow’ from another car in front, Ben stretched his lead until he was over six seconds clear. Ben took the chequered flag with an unusually large margin for a Caterham race, underlining his dominance in the race.

“It was probably the best performance of my career so far,” he said.

“I knew we’ve had the pace to win and I set out to prove it. I concentrated on putting in clean precise laps every single time and zoned out everything else. So far this season I’ve had to fight hard for every place at every corner. This time it was a challenge to myself to be accurate and calm and show that I deserve the win, and that’s what I did. It’s important for a driver to be as quick leading a race as he is chasing.”

The result was extra special as his entry to the Croft round was under threat because of budget issues, until luxury hotel and resorts

group, Park Plaza hotels, stepped in to help support Ben for the last two races of the season. “It’s great that I’ve shown Park Plaza that we have the pace to be successful and I’m so grateful to them and all my other sponsors and partners - Aviamics, Saturn, Trafalgar Technical Solutions, Air Research, Goldstar and Power Maxed. without them none of this would be possible and I’m pleased to be able to repay them with a win.” “we’re really happy to be working with Park Plaza,” continued Ben. “The deal came through too late to put branding on the car for Croft, but they were a big part of this result. we’ll certainly be proud to carry their brand at the next round at donington Park in October.” daniel Pedreschi, General Manager of the Park Plaza westminster Bridge london, part of Park Plaza® hotels & Resorts, was equally happy about the result: “Now that’s what I call the start of a great relationship,” he exclaimed after the race.

The result takes Ben to eighth in the Championship, a remarkable achievement after the many issues he suffered earlier in the season.

Ben next races at donington Park on 15th/16th October in the Caterham Supersport Season Finale.

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

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OCTOBER 2016 BULLETIN — 19

Pension auto-enrolment: Fulfilling your responsibilities

SINCe the reforms began in 2012, figures from the Pensions Regulator state that over 6.5 million workers have now been automatically enrolled into a pension scheme. with the transition in full swing, local chartered accountants, George hay, are helping their clients to fulfil their auto-enrolment responsibilities.

“The Payroll Team are delighted to be hosting a drop-in event at our Biggleswade office on Thursday 3rd November from 9am-1pm,” says elaine Shaw, Payroll Manager at George hay Chartered Accountants, “If you have questions or concerns about workplace pensions, or autoenrolment please do pop in and have a chat!”.

Thousands of small and micro employers will be required to have a qualifying pension scheme in place in advance of their staging date, in order to enrol their employees. “employers must understand their legal responsibility to their staff,” says elaine. “Part of this is communicating to staff who are eligible, their right to a workplace pension.”

The Pensions Regulator has issued letters advising employers on their staging date, PAYe reference, and a letter code. employers who have not received, or mislaid the letter, can retrieve their staging date via The Pension Regulator website,

using their PAYe reference.

Though compliance rates are currently high, for those employers failing to comply, the Pensions Regulator are invoicing penalty notices, with fines ranging from £50-£10,000.

By the time the roll out is complete in 2017, it is predicted that over 9 million workers will be saving into a workplace pension.

For more information on workplace pensions you can visit http://www.workplacepesnions.gov. uk or http://www.thepensionsregulator.gov.uk, or for more information about our auto-enrolment services visit http://www.georgehay.co.uk

Lions Club needs your help

BIGGleSwAde Sandy lions Club will have been providing, assistance, encouragement and fun to the local community (including the underprivileged, aged, infirm and young) for thirty eight years in October this year. we want to be able to continue providing this in the years to come. we are now in the process of planning our Christmas activities which include our very popular Sleigh Runs, Christmas music from Santa’s Sleigh at various supermarkets and a Christmas party for underprivileged and disabled youths. unfortunately we are approaching a crisis point whereby in order to continue our current level of community work we need more people to help. This is caused by both time catching up, and the deteriorating health of several of our Members. Other lions Clubs have closed for similar reasons, we do not want this to happen to our Club and, in view of all the comments we receive from local residents, we do not believe that the community we serve would want this.

If you can help with our Christmas activities, have wondered how you could get more involved in your local community, are able to offer a few hours of your time to help or would like information about becoming a Member please contact us, tel. 01767262433 or email president@biggleswadesandylions.org.u k.

Alternatively visit us on Facebook or our www.biggleswadesandylions.org.uk where you will find details of activities we have undertaken or come along to one of our meetings held at 8:00pm on the first and third wednesdays of each month at The Conservative Club, St. Andrew’s Street,Biggleswade.

Membership is open to all and offers fellowship, fun and social activities in addition to providing assistance to those in need. we serve Biggleswade, Sandy and all surrounding towns and villages bounded by Gamlingay, Moggerhanger, Clifton, Arlesey and dunton. we look forward to hearing from you.

COMMUNITY GRANTS

The Town Council acknowledges the important contribution that Community Clubs and Organisations make to enrich and improve the quality of life for so many residents in Biggleswade.

In order to support the operation and development of these valuable services, the Town Council has limited funds available to support those Clubs and Organisations in their work.

In this respect, the Town Council would be pleased to receive applications for financial assistance from Community Clubs and Organisations in Biggleswade.

Application forms can be downloaded from our website; www.biggleswadetowncouncil.gov.uk Completed forms should be sent to our office at the address below.

Alternatively, requests for an application form should be addressed to: Biggleswade Town Council 4 Saffron Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8DL By telephone on 01767 313134 or By email at enquiries@biggleswadetowncouncil.gov.uk FORMS WILL BE AVAILABLE FROM 1 NOVEMBER 2016 Your completed application form should be returned to the Council Offices no later than 31st december 2016 Please note that it will not be possible to consider your application after this date.

BIGGleSwAde TOwN CleRK

20 — BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

Biggleswade ANNOUNCEMENTS 1. There has been an interesting development following last month’s revival of interest in Biggleswade born Charles Penrose (1873-1952), the music hall, radio and recording artiste remembered for his best-selling 1926 record, ‘The laughing Policeman’. we published a feature on Penrose in our August newsletter to members and received a response from a member now living in Oxfordshire, who informed us that in researching her ancestry a few years back she had discovered a family connection to Penrose through his mother’s side of the family, which was local to our area, and she kindly donated to the Society a collection of memorabilia and research material relating to him and his family. (See the From the Archives section on this page for details of the contents.) Penrose’s father had come to Biggleswade from london in 1860 as an apprentice to a Biggleswade clockmaker and married a local girl, elizabeth King. we would very much like to know if there are other descendants of the King family still in our area who will therefore have a connection with our laughing Policeman. Our feature article on the facing page contains information about the family and how they are related to Penrose. If any reader can help please get in touch with the Society’s editor, whose contact details are at the foot of this page.

2. The Biggleswade Branch of the Royal British legion is urgently seeking a new Secretary. The branch meets monthly at St Andrew’s church rooms in the evenings in summer and in the afternoons from October onward. The job involves preparing the agenda for meetings and taking the minutes, and dealing with correspondence, mainly from hQ and the regional branch. It will require somebody who has email and basic computer skills. It is voluntary and unpaid but the branch will pay the new recruit’s first year’s membership. If any reader is interested and would like to discuss it with somebody please contact Tony dray, the local branch chairman, on 01767 600996.

3. The 73-minute ‘Three Market Towns’ dVd featuring Biggleswade, Potton and Sandy past and present is still available to members and non-members at £15, payable on ordering. It can be delivered free of charge to Biggleswade addresses or mailed for an extra £1.00 per copy to cover postage and packing.

Readers can order by posting a cheque for the appropriate amount (made out to Biggleswade history Society) to: The Treasurer, Biggleswade history Society, 55 Brunel drive, Biggleswade, SG18 8BT, with a note stating the number of copies required, how they are to be delivered, your name, full postal address and a contact telephone number or email address.

4. The Society’s next slot on the BigglesFM Thursday Breakfast Show will be 8.30 - 9.00 on 27 October. Tune in to 104.8 or go to www.bigglesfm.com and click on listen live.

EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS 1. Sunday, 11 September: ‘Cracking Tales and dark deeds’ – story-telling walks in Shortmead Street for heritage Open days. After a Saturday of dull, wet weather, conditions throughout the Sunday were ideal, and upwards of 80 walkers joined our guides Sandra Ransom & Anne Skinner during the course of the day. It was a long day, starting at ten in the morning to put up banners and bunting at the dan Albone car park, and then parties of walkers headed off at 10.30, 1.00pm and 4.00pm, with short rest breaks in between for our guides, who were well looked after by our member Jennifer Topham. The

walks were well received and the Society wishes to thank all those who took part and helped to make it such an enjoyable and successful event.

2. The Society’s latest display in Biggleswade library has as its theme ‘Biggleswade Schools’. It runs from 27 September to 3 October, so readers may catch it if they are quick! Our next display will be in december and we shall publish details nearer the time. Please note that the library is closed on Thursdays.

3. looking ahead to The March hare in November! In the evening on Tuesday, 18 November our President Ken Page will be giving a talk in the March hare at dunton about the history of brewing and pubs in the Biggleswade area. This is an open event, so readers may come along and hear the talk whilst enjoying a drink or two in good company.

Mark the date in your diaries!

FROM THE ARCHIVES – Accessions we are thankful for the following donations, which flooded in during August and September 1. from Tim & Bridget Gurney, an earthenware cold cream pot with printed lid (Turner’s the Chemist, Biggleswade) 2. from Keith Roberts, a large decorated wooden presentation box containing miniature liqueurs won as a raffle prize by a Mr Clark senior at the Crown hotel (undated) 3. from a donor in Caldecote some original national newspapers of general historical interest (1930s) 4. from Jean woodward via Ken Page, a ww1 postcard photo of Arthur william Preslant in army uniform 5. from Ann Gilpin, documentation and memorabilia relating to the opening of the weatherley Centre 6. from Peter Cave, photographs of a wooden box awarded as a prize at the Biggleswade Fête in 1899 7. from Chris Palmer, a copy of his mother’s National Savings Certificate book (undated) 8. from Margot Alston, a photo taken at Trinity Methodist Church in 1995 at the opening of an exhibition marking the bicentenary of the first Methodist chapel in Biggleswade 9. from liz Mayston, photos of local ww2 airman, Flight Sergeant Jack harris RAF 10. from Gill King, a Charles Penrose archive comprising family birth, marriage & death certificates; original souvenir theatre programmes dating from 1917 relating to Penrose and his son Peter; an eP of four tracks by Penrose, including ‘The laughing Policeman’); an original cigarette card showing The laughing Policeman; copies from various publications relating to Charles and Peter Penrose and to author and journalist Shafto Justin Adair Fitzgerald, brother-in-law of Charles Penrose.

PUBLICATIONS The Society has a wide range of publications relating to the history of Biggleswade and its people and these are now permanently available to all members of the public at the same reduced prices offered to our members. Most of our publications may be purchased for just £1.00 each, and the 434-page A4 size dan Albone hardback is a bargain at the reduced price of £15.00 (plus £5.00 postage & packing if it is to be mailed) and is also on sale at the same low price at Pedals cycle shop in Shortmead Street. Visit the Society’s website for our price list and descriptions of the books. Telephone enquiries and orders to: Paul Artiss (01767 666187).

MEMBERSHIP The Society currently has 150 members. we

remind Bulletin readers interested in joining our Society that now is the best time to do so. Short trial membership ending on 31 March costs only £4.00 and entitles the new member to attend all meetings with speakers at no further cost. (The normal fee for non-member visitors is £3.00 per meeting.) Also, a welcome pack with a gift of one of our publications will arrive, as will our big Newsletter, delivered each month free of charge by email or by hand to most addresses in Biggleswade (or by post for a one-off payment of £3.00). download a Membership Application Form from the website (web address at the foot of the page) or simply come along to the next meeting and ask to join at the desk.

MEETINGS The Society meets in the chapel at Trinity Methodist Church on the first Monday of the month, unless notified. doors normally open at 7.30 for an 8.00pm start. Meetings are free to members; visitors are welcome at indoor meetings for £3.00 per meeting.

LAST MEETING 05 Sep: There was a good attendance of 50 for our first indoor meeting following the summer season of walks and visits. Speaker Ian waller, gave a well-delivered, thoroughly researched talk about the life of agricultural labourers in the 19th century, in which he explained very clearly why, far from living the rural idyll that we might imagine, most 19th century farm workers and their families lived a precarious life on the breadline. long hours for low pay, large families, poor housing, rising taxes, rents and prices, unfavourable weather and poor harvests, little work in winter, increasing mechanisation reducing the number of jobs available, hard-up farmers cutting workforces or paying less, reliance on parish relief when a breadwinner died, became frail due to age, was disabled or sick, or for whatever reason could not earn enough to keep his family – agricultural labourers were at the mercy of all of these. when the old system of parish relief at home ended with the Poor law Act of 1834 the shame of the workhouse for the whole family became an ever-present threat.

Poaching was a common way of putting food on the table in rural areas but if caught the offender was imprisoned and the family suffered all the more. To make ends meet wives and children could earn a few extra pence by spending many hours making lace or plaiting straw at home for the luton hat industry while the youngest children were often looked after by an older sibling. Boys as young as ten could work on farms for a pittance and girls could be sent away as live-in domestic servants, but the advent of compulsory education later in the century limited opportunities to supplement the family income and the only way for rural farm workers to improve their lot by then was to move to the industrial Midlands or the North, or to emigrate, which a great many did.

Cheerful, isn’t it!

PROGRAMME 07 Nov: ‘A Year in the life as high Sheriff’ – a talk by Colin Osborne MBe 14 dec: (wednesday) Members only Christmas Party at the Conservative Club The 2017 programme should be ready to publish next month. Meanwhile, here is a taste of what is to come we have already booked a talk about the aviator Amy Johnson, and a speaker known as ‘Convict Ken’ to tell us about convicts transported between 1770 and 1870. (Some 1,300 were tried in Bedfordshire and transported, including several from the Biggleswade area).

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OCTOBER 2016 BULLETIN — 21

History Society

Looking for relatives of the laughing policeman

ChARleS Penrose (18731952) was the stage name of a music hall performer who specialised in laughing songs. he is still remembered today for his recording of ‘The laughing Policeman’ made in 1926. he was born Frank Penrose Cawse (and later renamed Charles Penrose dunbar Cawse) in Biggleswade, the youngest child and only son of Richard James Cranch Cawse, a jeweller, watchmaker and silversmith at 3, high Street (near the corner with Shortmead Street), and elizabeth his wife.

Richard Cawse was born in london and had come to Biggleswade in about 1860 at the age of sixteen as an apprentice to the local clockmaker, John Jefferies. he had later set up in business on his own account and married a local girl, elizabeth King.

Their son Charles Penrose began working life in his f ath er ’s b us in es s in Biggleswade but he had another talent and, as a side-line, wrote laughing songs and performed them at local concert parties. By the time his family sold up and left Biggleswade to return to london in 1894 Charles was twenty, had already left home with a travelling theatre company and was establishing himself as a music hall performer. he settled in london and went on to have a successful career in theatre, radio and as a recording artist, and also played minor roles in several British films. he died in london in 1952.

From his first marriage he had a son born in 1905, Charles Penrose Cawse, who emigrated to Australia at the age of seventeen, and in 1920 had another son, Peter Charles Penrose Cawse, by his second wife and creative working partner,

Mabel Anderson. This second son became a child actor in theatre and film under the name Peter Penrose and, later, a very successful london theatrical producer and was responsible for several productions at the london Palladium.

So, the Cawse family had all left Biggleswade by 1894 and Charles and his sisters married non-local partners in london and remained in the london area. Readers who wish to know more about the background and career of Charles P enr o s e, Bigg les w ade’s ‘laughing Policeman’, will find plenty of information online, or may order the Biggleswade history Society’s publication, ‘Townsfolk of Biggleswade, Volume 2’ (price £1.00), which contains a short chapter devoted to him. One of the Society’s heritage plaques may be seen on the frontage of 3,high Street (next to loline Interiors), the Cawse family

home and jeweller’s shop where Penrose was born and spent his early years before his theatrical career began.

The Society is particularly interested in the maternal side of Penrose’s family – the family of his mother, elizabeth King, which was firmly rooted in our local area. One of our members is a descendant of the King family and discovered her connection with the laughing Policeman comparatively recently. She, and we, would like to know if there are other descendants still living locally who can claim the same link with Charles Penrose.

To help in identifying this family our member has provided the following details. elizabeth King, mother of Charles Penrose, was born in Biggleswade in 1848, one of three daughters of Jonah King, a carpenter and builder of neighbouring Southill, and his wife Mary, who was a daughter

of Thomas dalton and Mary (née Smith) of Biggleswade.

Jonah King deserted his wife and children and set up home with elizabeth dalton, his wife’s younger sister, with whom he had two sons, Frederick James and Arthur william King, in the 1860s. his behaviour must have horrified the family, especially Jonah’s father, Joseph King of Southill, who was a very religious man, a strict Baptist and preacher at the Independent Church in the village.

Our member is a direct descendant of Jonah’s elder brother, Josiah King, who mov ed f r o m S ou thill to Running waters Farm in langford Road, Biggleswade, where her great-grandfather and grandfather King were born.

Returning to Jonah King’s three abandoned daughters, we know that elizabeth King married Richard Cawse, was mother of Charles Penrose and that this f amily h ad lef t Biggleswade for london by 1894. her sisters, however, appear to have remained in our area. Caroline Jane King, born in Southill in 1846, married Thomas Fane in 1872 but had no children. Sarah King, however, born in Southill in 1855, married John Saunderson and had six children. we would very much like to hear from any descendants, either of Josiah King or of John and Sarah Saunderson (née King), still living locally. If any reader can help, please contact the Society’s editor, Jane dale, whose contact details are at the foot of this page.

The illustration on this page shows Penrose on the cover of an eP record donated to the Society.

For further information contact: Jane Dale 01767 650340, editor@biggleswadehistory.org.uk www.biggleswadehistory.org.uk

22 — BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

sport

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FOOTBALL – BY MICHAEL DRAXLER

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The day that the rain came

LEAMINGTON ..............................1 BIGGLESWADE TOWN ...............1 he waders continued their improvement despite the rain arriving at kick off, looking strangely like stair rods, and did not stop until half time and beyond. The pitch was admirable and certainly a competitor to our own fine surface.

The waders were out of the blocks quicker than the hosts and as usual effiong and Burnett had the very wary attention of the leamington defenders.

Inih was playing his usual combative style and had the better of both central defenders with a couple of early chances. Fourteen gone, effiong bearing down on goal mesmerising his markers before unleashing the unstoppable for a wader advantage of 1-0. effiong and Burnett assisted by Vincent and the lively Robbie Parker were not making it easy for the sodden defenders and more worthy attempts went our way before an injury to Vincent changed the formation with leamington adjusting the better. with leamington now playing with more purpose, Callum lewis who had contained the leamington 11 Ahmed Obeng all game with solid defending was pulled out of position and Obeng free on the far post had the easiest of jobs to slot the ball home on 41. with the weather creating more injuries than normal the first half was extended by five minutes no extra score was added.

Out for the second period and the rain assisted by a wind left to right put the boys in green on the defensive.

True character was shown by all, none more so than Captain Russell Short who, by unanimous opinion had the best of games and was certainly man of the match. After a mix up between our man and Perry allowed Obeng to get his foot in, the ball was goalbound. enter Short who saved the day with a magnificent clearance.

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The sunshine after the rain

BIGGLESWADE TOWN ...............2 ST. NEOTS.......................................0 NTeRPReTed in two ways.

Firstly that the waders have come out from under the cloud, secondly after Saturday’s downpour it was great

to play at home in the sun. And what a sunny afternoon it proved to be.

Both sides had drawn their Saturday games against top opposition, so the scene was set with possibly Saints the more confident after the better start to the season. enforced changes certainly to the waders saw a shuffled line up with the bench occupied with a host of young “will be” waders.

At the turn round a 0-0 score line reflected the play.

Out for second half and what a difference, Saints were still not marching but the waders upped the tempo and played all the football to the delight of the home fans. Passing the ball to feet instead of the usual high ball that was easily gathered by, the taller than effiong, Tom ward wearing blue. Six minutes in and a series of corners saw the ball come out to Connor hall to place it between bar and upright for the 1-0 advantage. daniel Clifton, Robbie Parker, Tony Burnett and Mark Coulson all pressed forward. Coulson unleashing a shot just wide of the upright. The back five unchanged kept to the game plan, Our man not really called into action. disco dancing is becoming common place in the waders repertoire as Inih effiong dazzled with the footwork and smashed, yes smashed the ball into the net on 68.

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We will take that!

MALDON AND TIPTREE ............0 BIGGLESWADE TOWN ...............1 T’S never going to be easy playing in the FA cup, a one off game with both highs and lows. The thrill of it all is addictive. Maldon conquerors of ware in the last round were all buoyed up with a big scalp coming to town.

The waders? On a hiding which ever way the result went. Testing themselves to the full with five first team players not available for various reasons, a serious re-shuffle took the star of the St.Neots game, Connor hall in a centre half partnership with Callum lewis. The average age of the side and bench dropped dramatically with the necessary inclusion of the “will Be’s.”

As a spectacle, it didn’t happen. long periods of wader domination were punctuated with scary moments from Maldon. A lively 11 Adam Mills put in a shot which shaved the far post.

Burnett, Ian Rees and Anderson were trying but on a day when possibly fortune was against us nothing went right. The closest, a Burnett header hit

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

the upright to re-bound straight back to Tony whose snatched shot sailed over the bar. At half time it was frustrating knowing cup exit could depend on the next 45.

At the turn round and playing into the stiff estuary breeze the waders success was built on keeping the ball on the floor. Anderson, ex Maldon player was trying his luck wide with some success. I think I came to the conclusion that a replay back home was going to happen. 73 and up pops Anderson for his debut goal. A full hit shot through a melee of players.

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Sense of disappointment

FROME............................................2 BIGGLESWADE TOWN ...............0 T’S a long way to Frome in Somerset and even further coming back on a loss that was not deserved. Frome had two shots at our goal and scored twice. Countless wader efforts were saved or went wide. without Inih effiong, out injured, the attack has to play through midfield. with Captain daniel back in the team and Big Gavin hoyte returning to the defence, things should have been brighter than the previous game at Maldon.

Certainly the football was bright and the 90 passed in a flash, during which time daniel, Parker, Clifton, Perry and the ever running Tony Burnett all had attempts that were off the mark or saved. The passing and interplay was fascinating to watch. The best of the lot was Tony Burnett whose diving header rattled the bar and went away to safety. It seems unjust that a team plays well and comes home with nothing, but reflect back a week and we took the win, however it came. Its a funny old game.

h

Craigy D

BIGGLESWADE TOWN ...............2 KINGS LYNN TOWN ....................0 AVING got on the wrong end of the score line in both fixtures last season it was always going to be difficult against a strong visiting Kings lynn. The first 45 was very much a stalemate with both sides playing longball with some marginal success for the ever willing Tony Burnett. Chances were few and neither keeper was troubled too much.

Your intrepid report’s pencil not need-

ing to be sharpened until the second period.

After the break, the waders had at last adapted to playing the ball on the floor. So it started with Craig daniel constantly switching wings and showing his outstanding pace. On 63 daniel started the move passing inside to Ian Rees onto lucas Perry and back into the path of Craigy d to fire in from an impossible angle. Switching wings again and daniel was playing the captain’s role inspiring and keeping the ball high up the pitch. with the return of Russell Short the defence looked sure once again with our man having a quiet evening. late on daniel outpaced the fullback, this time on the right before pushing the ball across the box for George Bailey to score his first senior goal in time added.

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Alias Smith and Jones

MARGATE ......................................2 BIGGLESWADE TOWN .............. 0 he excitement, the dreams all conjured up by the magical FA cup turned into a nightmare within 18 minutes as first Inih effiong broke down to his recurring injury after five minutes, having just returned after missing the last 3 games. 15 on and Tony Burnett suffers a similar fate when damaging his hamstring. without the major strike force the waders certainly had their work cut out against a National Conference South team. But to the task they stayed and although going forward was a bit toothless, Margate were certainly not firing on all cylinders, the nearest was against the post to leave the score on 45 at 0-0.

Out for the second period and wader faithful could only hope of some dazzling footwork from Craig daniel or Chris Marsh and although both were trying their best the gate remained closed. The best wader efforts were Craigy d clean through only for the goalkeeper to save and Our harry Norman who forced a save from the keeper low to his right late on.

Margate however faired better being given as told to me a “dubious” penalty. Buchanan, who smashed the ball against the bar. Michael Thalassitis smashed the ball high into the net on54. A classy move saw the ball crossed in where Scott donnelly volleyed a peach from 18 yards.

Biggleswade pressed and pinned Margate back but to no avail. But yhey are back in the hat.

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OCTOBER 2016 BULLETIN — 23

BOWLS

Good year for Biggleswade’s bowlers

FOllOwING their success in the which resulted in the A Team winCounty Finals in July, nine ladies ning by just three shots. from Biggleswade travelled to MEN’S COUNTY LEAGUE Royal leamington Spa in August AND EAST BEDS LEAGUE to compete in the National Finals with varying levels of success.

The Biggleswade Men managed success in winning the RESULTS NATIONAL Bedfordshire County league, FINALS – LEAMINGTON division 2, with 47 ½ points over 2016 the runner up team from Queens 4 wood Singles: J. Christie lost works finishing on 38 ½ points. to J. Allen, Northumberland 14:21 The eBl A Team finished second 2 wood Singles: J. Christie lost in division One and also runners to S. Tolchard, devon 12:17 up in the eBl Champion of J. Bryant O55 Singles Winner & C. King Unbadged Singles R/U. Senior Singles: e. whiteman Champions. lost to S. utteridge, Bramford 8:21 Pairs: S. Stone & C. King lost to Yorkshire 20:28 Pairs: h. McConnell & J. Christie bt Nottinghamshire 36:12, lost to derby 13:22 Senior Pairs: B. hollands & J. Ralph bt worcestershire 26:20, bt derby 19:16, lost to Suffolk 6:21 (Quarter Finals).

Triples: w. walker, e. whiteman, C. hills bt leicester 20:19, bt Bucks 17:14 lost to hants 6:21 The Bedfordshire County domestic Finals were held at linslade BC on 4 September where two ladies from Biggleswade made it through to the finals in three competitions.

RESULTS OF THE COUNTY The EBL A Team: E. Whiteman, J. Crane, W. Walker, J. Cooper, S. Harris, M. Northfield DOMESTIC FINALS Over 55 Singles: J. Bryant bt M.Cahill (Stotfold) 21:3 in the semi-final and P. Bright (Barton) 21:11 in the Final.

Swallow Cup: J. Bryant bt h. lovell (Kempston) 21:18 in the semi-final and lost to B. Carter (wilstead) in the Final. unbadged Singles: C. King bt C. Goodyear in the semi-final and lost to M. lyons in the Final.

LADIES EAST BEDS LEAGUE Biggleswade ladies have again had great success in the league with the C Team winning division One and the B Team winning division Three. The A Team and C Team had to play each other in the Gwen Reid Knock-Out National Finalists: J. Christie, J. Ralph, B Hollands, C. Hills, C. King, E. Whiteman, S. Stone, W. Walker, H. Competition on 11 September McConnell.

24 — BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

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AROUND THE CLUBS

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ROYAL ARTILLERY ASSOCIATION

he Biggleswade Branch of the Royal Artillery Association held a Branch Meeting on 7th September 2016, at the Sea Cadets hall. There were 12 members and one guest present. The Chairman recited The Royal Artillery Prayer.

Apologies were received from three members. The minutes of the July meeting were read. The Treasurers report was received.

Th resuts of the RAA Grand draw was announced and the branch had a prizewinner.

The BSM of our affiliated unit, 49 Battery gave an update on the units activities. The meeting closed at 14.50 hrs.

The Royal Artillery Association exists to look after the welfare of and foster comradeship between members of the Royal Artillery both serving and retired. exService personnel of other Arms or Regiments who wish to share the camaraderie are welcome. The Branch meets on the first wednesday of the month at the Sea Cadets hall, Biggleswade starting at 14.30hrs. (Next Meeting is on wednesday 5th October). Please contact the Chairman Ted McKenzie on 07900806235 or e Mail tiger.ted@gmail.com for more details.

BIGGLESWADE IVEL EVENING TOWNSWOMEN’S GUILD

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eCReTARY Ann Taylor welcomed members to the harvest supper on Monday, September 12.

Since the last meeting in July, members had participated in a walk to the lakes at Broom followed by lunch at the New Inn; an evening at Sandy TG summer evening; an afternoon walk at wimpole hall and a federation quiz evening which had been very enjoyable with the questions more interesting and easier than in previous years resulting in our two tables taking a very respectable equal fourth place.

The chronicle points have yielded and payment of £22.92p.

Stratton house has been booked for the guild anniversary dinner on Thursday, November 17. Other forthcoming events are an invitation to attend the Town Mayor’s Civic Service 12th March 2017; Federation Carol service december 3 at walsworth Church, hitchin

and National Carol Service at ely Cathedral december 8.

Ann Taylor read out a report of the latest federation meeting.

The evening then continued with the traditional harvest supper provided by the committee followed by two quizzes. The next meeting will be on October 10, speaker to be arranged. The competition will be something beginning with the letter R. The guild meets on the second Monday of the month 7.30 pm at the weatherley Centre.

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he Chairman, Ann Taylor, welcomed members and visitors to their new venue at St Andrew’s Church Chapter house on Tuesday 13th September – the hottest day of the year. It took a little while to organise the room and settle down but members were able to enjoy refreshments which were very welcome.

She announced that the subscriptions will be rising next year to cover the increased costs but the refreshments would be free. She updated the members about the Chairman’s Charity – Angela’s Small Cell Ovarian Cancer Research Fund which has now topped £68.000. The charity would conclude with a raffle next month.

There will be a speaker at the beginning to the AGM – Jill Reeves who is a Community Agent.

The secretary, at warren, gave details of various courses and the Accounts for the year. All were available for the members to study.

The art group will be meeting on Tuesday 4th October at Asda Meeting Room when the subject will be ‘Portraits’. Any one is welcome to attend as there is plenty of room. Book group 1 will meet on Monday 3rd October at Sally Clements house. Book Group 2 met on 14th September at Jane Macdonald’s house. The Craft Group met at Anne Jones house on 15th September when they made Christmas cards. The Music Group met on Tuesday 20th September at Phylis Powell’s house.The Sunday lunch Club meets at wheatsheaf, Tempsford on Sunday 2nd October at 12 noon. details were given of a trip to walsingham with the church.

Ann introduced the speaker, Julie larman, who was to show the members armchair aerobics.

Maybe not the most suitable occupation for such a hot day but every-

IVEL VALLEY U3A

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one enjoyed the work out to sixties music. It was surprising how much effort was needed even though all were stationary. Jean Curwen thanked Julie for an experience that had been thoroughly enjoyed.

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BIGGLESWADE FLOWER CLUB

eeTING held Thursday 22nd September 2016 The meeting was as usual very well attended. Chairman Pat whitworth welcomed everyone and read out notices. Pat Barton from Breckland Flower Club in Attleborough, Norfolk was the demonstrator and her theme for the evening was ‘The Butterfly effect’. we were all curious to see what Pat’s creations would turn out to be as The Butterfly effect is also known as ‘Chaos Theory’ - but all was well. Pat based her arrangements on how something seeming-

ly insignificant can produce spectacular results and she did not disappoint us. For example, garden greenery together with inexpensive flowers from a supermarket or garage forecourt were transformed into eye-catching displays. She even managed to present a pretty display using a lamp shade as her container. Pat was amusing and entertaining and her flower arrangements were colourful and unusual. Maureen Gray gave the vote of thanks and the evening concluded with a raffle for the flower arrangements and the usual refreshments and chat.

The next meeting is 7.30 p.m.

Thursday 27th October at the weatherley Centre, Biggleswade when the demonstrator will be emma Remmington and the theme will be “As we go down to the woods”. If you decide to come to see what we get up to you would be warmly welcomed.to know.

GARDENING – OCTOBER

AS I write this, we have just had the hottest day in September on record and yet for many, October heralds the onset of autumn which might seem a little difficult to imagine but despite the freakish heat, the leaves have well and truly started falling and I for one, have already seen a primrose in flower which traditionally is a harbinger of spring!

Is the notion of a ‘season’ dead in the water? My thoughts, for what it’s worth, are that these days, we seem to get any weather, any time of the year and although gardening books often have a calendar showing what jobs can be undertaken in which month, I once again urge readers to be empowered and try things that fly in the face of conventional wisdom. You never know, you might just be the first in your neighbourhood to have a type of flower in bloom, or be harvesting unseasonal vegetables!

That said, one plant that is guaranteed to liven up any garden at this time of the year is the dahlia.

Flowering (normally!) from July to November, dahlias are nothing if not show stoppers and if the rest of your garden is starting to take on autumnal hues, its flamboyant colour can fool you into thinking that winter is months away!

Many perennials benefit from being divided every couple of years which keeps the plant happy but also means, you get free plants and nothing makes a gardener happier

than free plants! Ajuga, Asters, hardy Geraniums (Cranesbill), Stachys, even Rudbeckia can all simply be dug up, and using a sharp knife or even a spade, separated into new plants. Simply re-plant all that has been dissected and keep wellwatered in dry spells and in no time at all, you will have successfully increased your stock of a particular plant and at no expense. Magic!

don’t forget: daffodil bulbs need to be in the ground but you can also plant in borders and pots, wall flowers, forget me nots and pansies.

Any lawn repairs should be carried out sooner rather than later using either turf or seed and top soil mix. either way, keep wet.

The answer to last month’s just for fun question is, your Gladioli have finished flowering, do you dead head or not? I like to dead head for the same reason one cuts the flowers off any plant and that is, to stop the plant from producing seed.

By doing this, the energy saved will be used elsewhere to its benefit. however, some gardeners prefer to lift the corms, dry and store in a frost free shed. This month’s question is why are forget me nots so called?

As usual, many thanks for your kind words and correspondence and please contact me with any gardening tasks or queries you may have, lawndocgardens@aol.com or tel: 01767 627 581 or 07796 328 855.

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

Successful ofsted inspection STAFF at Toad hall day Nursery in Colmworth are celebrating after receiving a ‘good’ rating in their first ofsted inspection Previously known as Puddleducks, the nursery became part of the Toad hall Nursery Group in Feb 2015 and delivers an excellent nursery service to Bedfordshire and St Neots-based children and their families from their rural village location in Colmworth.

Toad hall prides itself on delivering quality care, education and nutrition for children and during the last 18 months the group has made some incredible achievements. In August 2016 Toad hall retained the Silver Food for life Catering Mark, from the Soil Association, for providing nutritious meals, prepared with fresh, organic, locally sourced and farm assured produce for the children.

Toad hall Colmworth is the first nursery in Bedfordshire to have its healthy and nutritious menus approved by the Children’s Food Trust. The nursery also holds a 5 star rating from the Food hygiene Standards Agency. In addition, the nursery recently received the Platinum Award for Paediatric First Aid training from Tiger lily so parents can be assured that all staff have up-to-date First Aid qualifications.

A number of key company initiatives have been introduced by Toad hall at the nursery including Cook and Grow, Magical Maths, early language Program and lets

Get Physical and weekly Spanish lessons, which complement the early Years Foundation Stage.

One of the advantages of the nursery’s location is its wonderful rural setting with a large natural garden, including a nature zone.

Parents often comment on it being like a home from home and love the fact their children get to experience so much outdoor play at all times of the year.

OFSTed Inspectors commented in their report: “well-qualified staff provide a wide range of activities and learning opportunities that capture children’s interest” and “Staff have built excellent partnerships with parents. They speak very highly of the staff team and the care and learning opportunities provided. Parents are kept well informed about their children’s progress and achievements.” emma Parker Nursery Manager, Toad hall Colmworth “I am delighted that our nursery’s efforts have been recognised by OFSTed, all my team work exceptionally hard and their commitment to nurturing the children really shines through.”

Ruth Pimentel Chief executive, Toad hall Nursery Group “we are delighted that Ofsted has recognised our excellent nursery. The staff have worked extremely hard to develop the setting, making excellent use of the outdoor space and ensuring it meets the high standards of Toad hall Nursery Group, whilst maintaining its strong family ethos.”

You can advertise here for less than one pound a day

OCTOBER 2016 BULLETIN — 25

Can you spare a few hours a week?

“I hAVe always wanted to give something back, now that I have more free time. Coming to the hospice opened my eyes to all of the roles that I could do.”

At St John’s hospice, we have roles that include helping in the patient care areas, gardening, supporting events, reception, ward assistants, befriending, shop volunteers and so much more. we also offer bespoke roles for people with specific interests or skills and can always use the skills of our community. we have a lot of work to do in caring for our patients, their families and carers and we rely on volunteers to help us in so many ways. why volunteer for us?

There are many benefits to volunteering which explains why most of our volunteers have been helping us for years.

You could be: • support people who have a long-term conditions or a terminal illness • meet new people and make new friends • feel valued and be part of a team • help support members of our team • share your skills with others whether you’re retired, working or at college if you can spare a few hours a week, then we want to hear from you. we have roles to suit everyone whatever their skills or interests, including:

OvenIT’S Cleaning!

- It’sJOB a dirty A DIRTY – job!

Why do it yourself? so why clean it yourself

We clean ovens using non-caustic, We clean products ovens usinginnon-caustic, non-toxic your home. non-toxic products in your home.

Ovens • Ranges • Hobs • Extractors • Microwaves • Barbecues (May - Sept) AgasOvens • Ranges • Hobs • Extractors Agas • Microwaves • Barbecues (May - Sept) Fridges • Freezers • Dishwashers Fridges • Freezers • Dishwashers

Single oven ........................................£45 Oven ..................................... £26.00 DoubleSingle oven .......................................£55 Grill ................................................. £7.00 Hobs ............................................... £12.00 Hobs ....................................................£15 Shelves/Racks ................................. £1.50 each Extractors ....................................... £12.00 Extractors & replacement filter...........£15 Microwaves ..................................... £15.00 Bulbs................................................£3.50 Agas and Ranges priced accordingly

Agas and Ranges priced accordingly

Tel: 260188 Tel:01767 01767 260188

or contact James: 07812 666081

Call: pat on 07724 905406 pat@rosettapublishing.com

email: jstone@ovenmen.com

email: ovenmen@live.co.uk parent company est. 1998

• accompanying patients to and from the day hospice • becoming a volunteer counsellor • being a hospice ambassador at community events • befriending patients • delivering collection boxes • supporting our in-patient unit • helping at fundraising events • helping in the gardens • providing admin support • showing visitors around the hospice • talking to families and carers everyone brings something special to volunteering at St John’s hospice. we can put those skills to good use, such as offering a drink to patients, taking photographs at our events, cutting hair or helping us complete one of those jobs that needs doing around the hospice.

Anyone interested in a volunteer roles at the hospice should contact Viv Tannis on 01767 642445 or email: vivienne.tannis@sue rydercare.org

Firefighters demonstrating how they extinguish a chimney fire.

Keep your chimney safe

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

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

Follow these tips to keep your chimney fire safe:

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

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

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

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

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OCTOBER 2016 BULLETIN — 27

out & about Castle Comedy Biggleswade George’s Hall, Biggleswade 7.30pm October 3

Castle Comedy Biggleswade has a special show in October. The venue as always is the gorgeous George’s hall Bar & Grill and it will be hosting one of the best comedians on the uK comedy circuit, Nick Page.

Plus an hour of comedy from Castle Comedy host and local boy made good, Paul Revill!

Nick Page is appearing on Monday October 3rd. Nick is a former presenter of BBC1’s escape to The Country turned uK comedy circuit legend! he recently came runner up in the prestigious english Comedian of the Year competition earning him a tour of Australia as a prize! his unique rapid fire delivery will leave you wondering how anyone can get through so many words so quickly, and how he’s

escaped justice, or at least retribution, for so long!

‘Roguish comic Page is a bearlike man with a fund of barely believable stories about life, love and brushes with the law’ -

Guardian Pick of The Week ‘The very best story teller on the comedy circuit’ - Rhod Gilbert Following that will be a performance from Paul Revill of his edinburgh Festival Show, Revillations! Paul is the face of Castle Comedy and Biggleswade favourite who returned from the edinburgh festival having sold out his show every night! expect cheeky laughs and silly voices as Paul tells the true story of how he got the acting role of a lifetime… and how it all went wrong! drink! drugs! Police!

Perfume? All will be revealed!

BATH COMEDY FESTIVAL NEW ACT OF THE YEAR 2014 This bright sparky chappy was a real quick witted geezer.” HHHHH Arts in Leicestershire.

“Steals the Show” HHHHH ThreeWeeks.

The shows sell out quickly, with the dinner & Show tickets being particularly popular, so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment! doors open 7.30pm, Shows start at

8.00pm and tickets are £8 (£6 NuS) or if you fancy a treat, you can buy £18 tickets, which include a pre, show meal and glass of wine from the fabulous George’s hall Bar & Grill. www.castlecomedy.co.uk

28 — BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

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

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

26/27/28th October

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

daily prize for the best one.

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

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

Ticket prices: Adults £3.50.

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

Book online www.knebworthhouse.com

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

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

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

Autumn Open Day

The Biggleswade branch of The Royal British Legion and Biggleswade Town Council extend a cordial invitation to the residents of Biggleswade to attend this year’s

REMEMBRANCE DAY PARADE AND SERVICE

There will be BBQ and hog Roast too.

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

Farmer’s wife Anna said: “we have 400 geese which roam the green, green grass of home and we are a free range farm interested in animal welfare. They have a good life here.”

The farm has been in John’s family for 60 years - and he was born there and took the business 25 years ago.

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HARVEST SUPPER AND PRODUCE AUCTION

organised by SANdY hORTICulTuRAl ASSOCIATION Friday 7th October 7.00 for 7.30. p.m. at Sandy Conservative Bowls Pavilion.

Ploughmans supper with desert £8.50 per person, followed by auction.

Booking required for supper, contact 01767 680067 Wednesday 12th October at Sandy Bowls Club Pavilion at 7.30.p.m.

ANNUAL MEETING AND SANDY SHOW TROPHY PRESENTATION. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

SUNDAY 13th NOVEMBER 2016

ARE YOU A PROMOTER?

at the WAR MEMORIAL, MARKET SQUARE, commencing at 10.45 am.

PLEASE NOTE – we publish EVERY month So give us a call to discuss our rates on 07724 905406

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

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OCTOBER 2016 BULLETIN — 29

30 — BULLETIN OCTOBER 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

GReAT BARFORd eVeNT COMMITTee

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BIGGLESWADE WALK FOR HEALTH

Two Regular weekly walks 40-90 minutes Plus one for those who wish to go further Wednesdays at 10.00am walking with John and his team Meeting at dan Albone Car Park, Shortmead Street, Biggleswade (with stop for tea & coffee after the walk) Thursdays at 10.00am walking with Rosario and his team Meeting Outside Stratton School Gates, Biggleswade JuST TuRN uP For those looking to do more: Tuesday at 2.00pm A Medium to Fast walk of 1.5 – 2hrs Ring Janette for details For further details please contact: Janette Sibley: Tel: 0777 154 0117 e-mail: janette@sibley.me.uk Mike Fayers, Bedfordshire health walks Manager, Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity Tel: 01234 832619 e-mail: mikef@bedsrcc.org.uk, The Old School, Cardington, Beds.

MK44 3Sx

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CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

BIGGleSwAde ANd SuRROuNdING VIllAGeS we are a group for Cancer patients their families and friends.

A place to meet others and share mutual support. Come and have a chat, a cup of tea or coffee in a friendly, informal confidential environment. we look forward to meeting you. every first and third Thursday of the month.

The Community Rooms, Baptist Church 24, london Road, Biggleswade SG18 8eB 1pm - 3pm Telephone, Secretary Amanda 01767 313662 or Gina 07812796581 csgbiggleswade@gmail.com FB. Cancer Support Group Biggleswade.

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BADMINTON

we are a social mixed group who meet every Thursday night at Stratton School to play Badminton, from 8pm till 10pm in the Sports hall, we are of mixed ability but most are of an intermediate standard Anybody wishing to find out more please contact Alan on 07974187866 or Colin on 01767 317099

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SANDY TOWN BOWLING CLUB

welcomes new members young and the not so young of all abilities.

SANdY VIllAGe hAll eNGAYNe AVeNue. Season starts May to September. we play many friendly games through the season mostly of which are mixed (male and female!)

First year only membership is £10. match fees vary.

For further information please visit www.sandytownbowlingclub.com or contact Glen on 01234 870488

CHRISTMAS FAIR

BRITISh Red CROSS BedFORdShIRe, Saturday 19th November, 10.30am – 4pm, entry Fee £4 The programme will include demonstrations, tastings, and book signings. live performances by local school choirs.

Stalls will be selling superb, quality items and many handmade gifts and products. homemade cakes and refreshments available, raffle, tombola and much more.

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

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MAYFLOWER SOCIAL CLUB

we are a social club for the over 50’s and we are located at Charter house at St Andrews Church in Biggleswade. we meet every wednesday and Fridays from 2pm – 4pm we have various activities including games, raffles, bingo and often have a speaker attend to share different topics with us. we also organise day trips out, Christmas dinner and much much more. we are a friendly group of all different ages, all are welcome and we are always looking for new members.

There is an entrance fee of £1 per person.

There is a bus service available in the Biggleswade area for a nominal fee of £1.00, which is a return journey.

For any other information please call 01767 314652 and ask for Beryl or 01767 316711 and ask for eileen.

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BUGGY FIT CL ASSES

Mondays, St Andrews Church (room attached to the side of the church) 1.30pm–2.30pm £2 per session A sociable friendly class for anyone wanting to exercise with or without their babies. The class offers mums and dads the opportunity to exercise with their buggy in a safe and inclusive environment. The class comprises of a warm up and cardiovascular exercise to energise and help improve fitness, body weight and light resistance work to help strengthen and tone, followed by a cool down element so you leave feeling ready to take on the world!

Please contact the Physical Activity Team for more information at physical.activity@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk we invite all stroke survivors & their carers to join our

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IVEL STROKE CLUB 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.

AUTUMN CRAFT AND GIFT FAYRE

10am-3pm, Saturday 8th October Great Barford Village hall Fishers Close, Green end Road Great Barford, Beds Craft And Gifts Available homemade Cakes Adult And Childrens Tombolas Refreshments Available All day large Raffle entrance £1.00 Accompanied Children under 10 Years Old Free.

The Fayre is being Organised by All Saints Church, Great Barford and Mowsbury Cricket Club and Great Barford W.I. Associations.

NCT Biggleswade, Sandy & district Nearly New Sale date: Saturday 15th October 2016 Our Autumn Nearly New Sale is here, so come along to bag your bargains at our twice yearly sale. Profits fund the breastfeeding counsellor at Biggleswade Children’s Centre and NCT Charity. well-established and trusted by over 200,000 parents who visit them every year, NCT Nearly New Sales offer parents the chance to pick up excellent quality second hand items at an affordable cost, and a great alternative to trawling the high street for pricey baby and toddler products.

Families with goods they no longer need can ensure they go to a good home and make some cash at the same time. Items are all nearly new and the profits are shared between the seller, community led branch activities (e.g. funding breastfeeding counsellor; ) and NCT charity projects.

Items for sale: clothes 0-8 years, maternity wear, nursery furniture and equipment, toys and games, buggies and prams. So come along and bag your bargains!

Stratton upper School, eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JB email: nns.biggleswade@nct.org.uk Admission: £1 in aid of NCT charity Opening times: 2:15pm-3:30pm (2pm admission with valid NCT membership card)

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TABLE TENNIS

Tuesdays, Saxon Pool and Leisure Centre, Noon–1pm all equipment provided. £1.50 per session

WALKING FOOTBALL

Tuesdays, Saxon Pool and Leisure Centre 1.30pm-2.30pm £1.50 per session Please contact the Physical Activity Team for more information at physical.activity@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk

ST JOhN’S hOSPICe

–––––––––––––––––––––––– forthcoming events

12 November – 7pm – 1.00am Our yearly ball will be taking place at The Park Inn hotel Bedford. Get your glam rags ready and register your interest.

For further info call 01767 642412 Email: stjohnsfundraising@sueryder.org

CHARITY BALL

Admission £4. Concessions £3.

Accompanied children under 16 free.

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Monday 10th October Sandy Flower Club A workshop by Andria of Anna’s Flowers, Potton Starts at 7.30pm – Visitors welcome at £5.00 entrance on the door. There will be a raffle and tea and coffee. we meet at the Conservative Bowls Club pavilion (Rear of the Conservative Club, Bedford Rd.) The Flower Club meets every second Monday in the month at 7.30pm and new members are always welcome.

For more information please call: Sue Alexander: Tel. 01767 699729 or email: sue.e.alexander2@gmail.com

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TENNIS Over 50s Non-competitive Tennis players.

Two players needed to join us for doubles tennis on wednesday mornings in letchworth for six months while our regular opponents take a rest.

Indoor court booked from 10:00 to 11:30am.

For further advice/information contact 01767 691537.

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THE IVEL BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT CENTRE

hAS A lOVed ONe dIed? Are you still struggling to come to terms with this?

Perhaps we can help you at our drop-in centre at: The Community Rooms, Baptist church, 24 London Road, Biggleswade SG18 8EB on 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 – A warm welcome awaits you.

TENNIS FOR BEGINNERS

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Children – Adults Seniors experienced Players All welCOMe Jack: 01767 692242

www.biggleswadetennis.co.uk

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SANDY WALKS 4 HEALTH

Sandy walks 4 health meet every wednesday.

These are free short walks of about an hour, with a trained walk leader.

All welcome, no need to book; just turn up. walks start at 10am, meeting in Sandy Market Place outside the opticians.

For more information contact: Cathy 01767692182, or Jane Fryer 01767691455, or Mike Fayers (Health walks manager) 01234832619

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TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

OCTOBER 2016 BULLETIN — 31

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L ADIES CIRCLE

Biggleswade ladies Circle is a membership club for women aged between 18 -45 who want to make new friends have fun and raise money for charity. we have now been established for over 55 years.

Our Members are from all walks of life and are supported by various honorary Members and some PIGS (permanently invited guests). we are really keen to expand our membership to include lots more lovely local ladies! we all come from very different backgrounds and have different things going on in our lives and vary in age. we meet twice a month, usually on the 2nd wednesday and the 4th Thursday of the month in or around Biggleswade There are also many weekend events throughout the circling year. Most of our meetings are social meetings where we try out new things or just meet for a chat. we also have meetings where we discuss current things going on with circle such as upcoming fundraisers or any other business that needs to be discussed.

Some examples of past social meetings include knit and natter, car care at Kwikfit, games night with nearby letchworth and Royston Circles, a dVd evening, hearing dogs for the deaf talk, cocktail evenings, bingo, trips to the theatre, Christmas crafts, chocolate parties and much more!

Our events for Sept & Oct are as follows Sept 14th - Circle Bake off Sept 29th - Line Dancing Oct 12th - Cinema (film tbc) Oct 29th - Poppy Appeal Collection Contact us to find out about how you can get involved and for more details of next events coming up To join us, please see the contact details below. what have you got to lose! email: biggleswadecircle@gmail.com Twitter: @BwadeCircle. Facebook: Biggleswade ladies Circle. Tel: Sarah 07525 536464 BedFORd RSPB local group meet at ARA club Manton lane Bedford MK41 7PF. On Thursday 20th October 2016 at 7.30p.m.

SANdY hISTORICAl SOCIeTY Friday October 28th Stonecroft Hall St Swithins Way @ 7.30pm

SANdY hISTORICAl ReSeARCh GROuP

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CHARITY MUSIC NIGHT

IN AId OF MARIe CuRIe Featuring SANdY uKulele BANd & VOCAlIST dAN ARNOld CIU CLUB, STATION ROAD, POTTON 7pm start Friday 14th October TICKeTS £5 AVAIlABle TYSOeS POTTON MORe INFO Tel JANe 01767 260293 PleASe SuPPORT uS

Shortmead House Restoration

by Ian Bond Visitors welcome Admission £2.00 including refreshments Members Free For further details contact Chairman Nigel Aldis 01767 691333

The History of the Bedfordshire Regiment; a talk by Steve Fuller

Tuesday 11th October, 7.30pm at Beeston Methodist Church Hall, at The Baulk, Beeston entry is £3.50 (Members free) Tea and coffee available. Find us on Facebook

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Carl Barimore Presents ‘The Nest Record Scheme’

Outlining the work of the BTO to monitor breeding birds in the uK. Suitable for experts and Novices, RSPB membership not essential. entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 annual group membership £5 Reg. Charity No. 207076, more info www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford

SANDY ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY

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!

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The Bulletin series are independent magazines with no affiliation to any other organisation. ©2016 Rosetta Publishing ltd. 30 Radwell Road, Milton ernest MK44 1Sh. Tel: 07894 935952 or 07724 905406. email: editorial@rosettapublishing.com or advertising@rosettapublishing.com Printed by: Mortons Print limited. Newspaper house, Morton way, Boston Road, horncastle, lincolnshire lN9 6JR

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