Your
FREE SANDY, BEESTON & BIGGLESWADE EDITION
l Hazel’s in with a shout for beauty award – page 15 l Local stories from your town, clubs, organisations & workplaces l Your guide to ‘What’s On’
JUNE 2017
LOCAL NEWS magazine
Town Centre Report
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
W
ell, after a turbulent start to the year for Biggleswade town centre, things appear to be looking up! We have still sadly seen one closure with the loss of 'Sofa Plus' in Hitchin Street, due to the increase in business rates, the company have decided to close their Biggleswade operation and concentrate on their other stores and internet business. In more positive news 'ladash' has opened in the former Skipps florists shop on the High St, selling a selection of accessories and gifts and several other shops that were previously empty are in the process of being taken over and re-opening, although sadly I don't yet have any details of what these new businesses will be. The renovation of the Crown Hotel continues apace with an expected opening date of late July. Parking restrictions throughout the Town have changed significantly since my last report with many areas just outside the Town centre now having double yellow lines, however it is worth noting that in some places parking restrictions have been relaxed and three hours parking is now permitted through much of Hitchin St, with the remainder staying at one hour as before. Several of the parking bays in Hitchin St have also been extended to allow more cars to park. In mid May retailers and councillors were invited along to an evening meeting at Surfin' Cafe in the town for a presentation from a Town Centre planning consultancy, the evening was hosted by a member of the county council and much was discussed about the future direction of our town centre. It was agreed that there is a lot of work to do to improve the experience offered to visitors, it was also felt that something lacking in the town was the offer of entertainment, rather that just retail and if this was improved it would be of benefit to retailers. The over riding message that came from the meeting was that parking has to be the top priority, it is good to know that the issue is being seriously looked at and I look forward to bringing you news of any proposals. Hopefully by the time I write my next article I will be able to bring you details of several new businesses in the town. enjoy the start of Summer!
by Phil Sheldon
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JUNE 2017 BULLETIN — 3
There’s an urgent need to improve visitor experience
IMPROVING visitor experience, boosting jobs and increasing footfall to shops and business are some of the key factors behind a new Commercial Plan for the centre of Biggleswade, which has been commissioned by Central Bedfordshire Council as a response to the challenges of fast growth in the town. The Biggleswade Joint Area Committee, which
is comprised of members from the Council, Biggleswade Town Council and traders, has asked for the Plan in response to the increasing competition faced from online shopping and out-of-town retail parks – though this is not only in Biggleswade but all town centres, generally, across the UK. With the development of Kings Reach to the east, the expansion of retail at London Road Retail
Continued on page 4
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4 — BULLETIN JUNE 2017
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Need to improve visitor experience – continued from page 3 Park and the new jobs being created at Stratton Business Park the town is in a period of change. Recognising this, the Council is seeking to maximise these opportunities while addressing the challenges of an increasing population, such as providing the necessary capacity in local schools.
The Commercial Plan is part of ensuring the benefits of growth are sustainable and felt by all. It will help develop and deliver activities that will improve the overall health of the town centre and this will mean a better town centre experience, which will impact positively on footfall to local businesses and jobs. Through a competitive bidding process, the Council has contracted the Mosaic Partnership – a consultancy with specialist knowledge and expertise in relation to the development of sustainable and modern town centres – to help it develop the Commercial Plan. This work will be completed over the next several weeks and the Mosaics Partnership will be carrying out a number of face-to-face surveys in the town centre to help inform the resulting Plan. The Council’s approach to this work is based on investing time, effort and money in working with local businesses to improve the town centre and, as a consequence, the trading environment. An example of this ethos is the Market Town Regeneration Fund which is providing significant funding across Central Bedfordshire for the improvement its town centres. Jason Longhurst, Central Bedfordshire Council Director for Regeneration and Business, said: “We recognise that all town centres need to adapt and diversify so that, rather than compete with new and emerging shopping
opportunities, such as online retail, they can offer something different that consumers can’t get any where else. “Biggleswade has seen the recent redevelopment of the London Road Retail Park which contains a number of major retailers. While this represents a trend we have seen in several areas of Central Bedfordshire, where these companies now require greater floorspace that can be found on high streets, we have a very clear town centre first approach. This is about being responsive to the challenges our town centres face, working with the business and the community to identify solutions and then investing time and money to help ensure their sustainability. “This Commercial Plan project fits in with our broader programme of investment and regeneration within our market towns and their town centres. As part of our Market Town Regeneration Fund, we are delivering the High Street Improvement Scheme, which offers grants to town centre traders for the design and installation of new shop fronts. Over £1million of funding has been provided across the Council area for this purpose in our key market towns.” In Biggleswade, one trader that will benefit from the High Street Improvement Scheme is the Surfin Café, which will develop a new shop front and brand during this summer to significantly improve the appearance and setting of the business, plus the surrounding Market Square. Now is the chance to inform this work, so town centre businesses interested in contributing to the Commercial Plan can contact the Council’s Project Manager Sam Caldbeck by email to Samuel. caldbeck@centralbedfordshire. gov.uk
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JUNE 2017 BULLETIN — 5
Hazel has this beauty business nailed
loCal nail professional Hazel Clarke from Sapphire Hair and Beauty academy on Sun Street, Biggleswade is celebrating as she was named as a finalist for the second time for educator of the Year at the Scratch Stars awards 2017. The annual awards, presented by leading nail industry publication – Scratch Magazine – are now in their sixth year and recognise and reward outstanding talent and achievement within the professional nail industry. Hazel fought off strong competition to be named as one of only five finalists in this highly contested category, with over 1000 entries. on the next stage of the competition, Hazel submitted a dossier of further information and delivered a lesson for the final judging day which took place on May 16 at The london College of Beauty Therapy where a panel of expert judges will decide on the ultimate winner. Hazel said: “I was ecstatic to discover that I was one of the final five for educator of the Year for the
second time, especially when I discovered that there were over 1000 entries this year. I didn’t enter last year as I was too busy Refurbishing the Salon so after winning customer service award in January for the salon side of the business it’s fantastic that the education side of the business has also been recognised to such a high standard. I can’t wait to join the other four Finalists who are all friends of mine at the awards evening in July”. all the finalists will be invited to attend the Scratch Summer Party at Tropicana Beach Club, Covent Garden on 23 July. after getting in the party mood, the Scratch Stars awards winners of 18 categories will be revealed by a celebrity host. For details on educational courses contact Hazel Clarke, Sapphire Hair and Beauty academy, 66-68 Sun Street, Biggleswade SG18 0BZ. 01767 601909 info@sapphirehairand beautyacademy.co.uk
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6 — BULLETIN JUNE 2017
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BIGGLESWADE SANDY LIONS CLUB
Beeston Books, Books, Books – Let’s Read! in 2017
a CouPle of years ago, we invited a guest speaker from Schoolreaders to come along to our lions meeting to tell us all about the scheme. What an inspiring scheme! The mission of Schoolreaders is to improve literacy of children by providing volunteers to listen to children read in schools. We learnt that one in three children left primary school unable to read to the expected standard and of course, if they leave primary school with poor literacy ability that clearly must impact on the rest of their lives in so many ways. Many children do not have the opportunity of reading regularly on a one-to one basis with an adult, and just ten minutes reading a day boosts school achievement for the child. lions caught the inspiration, and as a result, four or five of us regularly go to our respective allocated local schools and spend a couple of hours each week sitting with children on that one-to one basis, listening and helping them read!
So inspired have we been that in our own right, Biggleswade Sandy lions are approaching local lower schools around our area in Central Bedfordshire and offering a donation to buy reading scheme books to replenish stocks or maybe library books. We are also keen to help schools increase their library stocks, and would be pleased to accept any unwanted children’s books you may wish to dispose of, which we can sort and pass on suitable books to schools. Please contact Judith or Dave, or leave a message on 01462 814693. Interested in joining lions, and keen to make a difference to not just children in your community but many others, then, please do call for more information about lions call 01462 814693 or biggleswadesandylions.org.uk If you’d like to know more about schoolreaders, contact them on admin@schoolreaders.org or phone 01234 924111.
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THe community of Beeston is bracing itself for a summer of consultations which are likely to affect the character of the village in the decades ahead. The first consultation which is already in progress concerns the two play areas in the limes and on the Green itself. Residents will be able to have their say on what sort of new play equipment they would like to see installed at both locations. Consultations have also begun on the proposed community orchard project. at this stage residents are just being consulted about the proposal for six affordable homes with access from the Green. Discussions about the development of the rest of the plot into allotments and a community orchard will begin in due course. last but certainly not least there is the draft of the Beeston Green Management Plan, a copy of which will be given to every household during the month of June, and which is designed to protect this valuable resource for the foreseeable future. This comprehensive document will include everything from tree maintenance and moles to access and parking. The draft plan has already been considered by the Town Council and will in due course be distributed to residents for their consideration. Similar management plans are appearing up and down the country to protect village greens, increasingly threatened by the pressures of the modern age. We will convene a village meeting to discuss all these issues once residents have had a chance to air their views about all these developments. The Green has a new feature with the installation of a stylish set of picnic table and chairs, commissioned by the committee of Beeston open Gardens (BoG), and in memory of Poppy Cope, a long-serving stalwart of the village who died last summer. Then on Sunday June 11th the annual Beeston Open Gardens will take place and, weather permitting, this event always attracts large numbers of visors who enjoy both the varied gardens themselves and the scrumptious cakes. Please feel free to contact any of your three councillors resident in the village to highlight any issues of concern. Central Beds Councillor Tracey Stock can be contacted on; Tracey.Stock@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk Tel: 0300 300 8509 and Sandy Town Councillors Mike Scott and Max Hill on scott729@ btinternet.com or 681457 and amaxhill@outlook.com or 681469 respectively.
8 — BULLETIN JUNE 2017
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Have you asked yourself: ‘Could you be a Foster Carer?’ ‘Could you make that difference to a Childs life?’ Would like to find out more? Children First could be the right agency for you! ‘Children First’ are an independent and well established fostering agency. Our aim is to provide quality care and achieve the best outcomes for the children and young people entrusted to us. We do so by working in consultation and partnership with our foster carers, local authorities, our experienced and professional social workers, and of course the children and young people we look after. There are many reasons why children come into care. Each child is unique and so are the families who support and look after them, you can make that vital difference and help turn their life around! Some families for instance, have periods of instability due to life issues such as medical conditions, family breakdown, learning difficulties and substance misuse. Some children unfortunately also experience significant harm from family members, including being exposed to inappropriate behaviour or risk.
You might ask would I be suitable? You can be single, married or divorced. Our carers come from wide ranging cultural, ethnic and religious backgrounds.
Some of our carers choose to work part time, while others may be unemployed or studying, they might be home owners or tenants. Each foster child however, will need to have his or her own bedroom. Children and young people need space around them for their own possessions and to allow them to study, play and relax. The most important thing is that your home is welcoming and safe. As a foster carer you will need to have the time and energy to invest in a child or young person. You must also be flexible, patient, resilient and understanding. Foster Carers receive a weekly allowance and have the support of our
professional team 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In addition we offer continual training and development. Our main office is based in Basildon but we support locally carers and children in and around the Bedford area. We have a local supervising social worker in the area and a training and support group venue which is easily accessible. If you are interested in finding out more information about how you can make a difference to a child’s life, then contact us through our website www.cffa.co.uk or call 0808 178 1144. For a more personal chat call Kim on 01268 567330
For more information please go to www.cffa.co.uk or call Kim on 01268 567330
SANDY TOWN COUNCIL YoR A M S t C E L -E E oUnCiL R C n W o t Y D n YoR SA A M n W o t Y t r Osborne AnD DEPU meeting Councillo n ting of Sandy Tow At the Annual Mee 22nd May 2017, y Council on Monda orne (left) was resb O lin n Councillor Co ayor of Sandy Tow as M as e rv se to w t elected ot Sc l ae cillor Mich Council, and Coun his Deputy Mayor. e as re-elected to serv serve ne was elected to Councillor Osbor d has spent a busy an as Mayor in 2016 s duties as Chairman, hi year carrying out uncil and the town at Co representing the funds for charity. ng isi ra d an ts even ÂŁ500 for Canine As well as raising Osborne has worked lor Partners, Council scue and the Sandy Re & re Fi ds of a with Be nd the installation fu to ub Cl ll ba ot Fo ad Ro d or at Bedf new defibrillator d. un ro G n tio Recrea
CoUnCiL M EEtinGS A
ll meetings Developmen commence at 7.30pm ex which starts t Scrutiny Committee (Pla cept at 6.30pm in the Council C nning) 10 Cambridge hamber, Road, Sandy SG19 1JE
Monday 5 June 2017 Developmen t Scrutiny Community Services & En vironment Monday 12 Ju Policy finance ne 2017 & Resources Monday 26 Ju ne 2017 Developmen t Scrutiny – to wn Council Monday 3 July 2017 human Resou rces
See our websi
te for details
of other meeti ngs ALL MEMBERS OF THE PUBL WELCOME TO IC AND PRESS ARE ATTEND
At the eir rs and staff for th thanked Councillo last year and stated e hard work over th honour and a privilege an en be d ha it that of Sandy. to serve as Mayor d s been a dedicate Councillor Scott ha year providing st deputy over the la t. or pp su le invaluab m uncil for giving hi He thanked the Co rve another year as se the opportunity to rward to another year fo ed ok lo d an or uty. May cillor Scott as Dep un Co working with ar Memorial Also under the W you delete n ca t en sful Refurbishm place with succes re d an lly sfu succes please.
Y PLAYPARKS SURVE nts that
ide like to thank all those res The Town Council would parks survey, your views and y nagement of completed its recent Pla cil plan for the future ma the results of un co the lp he ts commen ing iew rev y uncil is currentl llowing this we the play parks. The Co Bedfordshire Council. Fo parks in al ntr Ce th the survey wi to rks for improvement wo will be inviting tenders th residents on the shortlisted designs wi ult ns Sandy and will co er 2017. towards the end of summ
WAR MEMoRiAL REfURbiS
hMEnt Work on the refurbishment of the War May following a successfully applicat Memorial began on 22 ion by Sandy Town Council to receive 75% grant funding for the costs of the work. The refurbishment will include wor k to the lettering of names and repairing of joints in the steps which have cracked. 10 Cambridge Road, Sandy SG19 1JE Tel: 01767 681491 Fax: 01767 692527 admin@sandytowncouncil.gov.uk www.sandytowncouncil.gov.uk
10 — BULLETIN JUNE 2017
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Twinning’s 35th anniversary
From the left three members of the Malaunay Council, Martin Pettitt, Sandy Twinning Association and Member of Sandy Town Council, Monsieur G. Coutey, Mayor of Malaunay and Jean-Marie Devillers, Malaunay Twinning Committee.
SIxTeeN members of Sandy Twinning association made the bi annual trip to Sandy's Twin Town of Malaunay in Normandy over the May Bank Holiday weekend. This was a special trip marking the 35th anniversary of the link with the original Twinning Charter having been signed in 1982. With numbers for one reason and another down on previous years members travelled in cars rather than by coach but met in Malaunay on Friday afternoon for a scheduled reception hosted by the Mayor of Malaunay, Monsieur G. Coutey, fellow councillors and by members of the Malaunay Twinning Committee. Gifts were exchanged, a letter from the Mayor of Sandy, Cllr osborne, who was an original signatory of ther Charter was handed over and and short speeches made reaffirming the strong link between the two communities. after an evening with host families the party enjoyed a varied and interesting day on Saturday in the regional capital Rouen which is situated only 20 kilometres from Malaunay. The day began with a journey back in time to the late Gothic era to discover the city Rouen in the 360 degree Panorama followed by lunch after which everyone enjoyed a two hour a river boat trip on the Seine and finally a guided multimedia tour of the archbishop's Palace of Rouen adjacent to the magnificent Rouen Cathederal charting the trial, conviction and eventual death by burning of Joan of arc on 30 May 1431. In the evening there was an informal reception at which hosts and vis-
itors enjoyed a generous buffet meal and a 35th anniversary cake was cut. Sunday was spent out and about with our host families before departing for home on Monday with more tremendous memories of another weekend spent in Malaunay but now the planning begins for the next return visit to Sandy in 2018. If any readers feel that they or any groups with which they are associated would like to become involved with the Sandy Twinning association then they are invited to contact Chairman Max Hill, 01767 681469, Vice Chairman Martin Pettitt, 01767 680082 or the Secretary Jacky Frood 01767 681842.
JUNE 2017 BULLETIN — 11
SG19 Road Safety Group
WHIle the SG19 Road Safety Group continues to press for the construction of a proper bypass for Sandy and Beeston, it also recognises the need for improvements to our local roads. We intend gathering comments and suggestions from residents to put to Central Bedfordshire Council who have responsibility for the local road network. Some of the comments we have had so far include the following: With a number of lower schools turning primary in the new school set up in Sandy, have the schools, town council & Central Bedfordshire thought about the extra traffic in already congested residential streets? These roads cannot cope with the school run at the moment and better planning is needed taking into account speeding drivers and bad parkers blocking the school gates. Safety issues are evidenced by: I was walking on the pavement along the High Street and turned down Station Road. As I was doing so a large HGV came up Station Road and turned right over the bridge to get onto the Potton Road. As it did so the rear end of the trailer swung out over the pavement missing me by about a foot as I jumped back. (or as near to jumping as I can get at my age). The lorry driver did nothing wrong and drove correctly but it does demonstrate that this turning is unsafe. Concerns about specific roads and their problems including pollution issues include: I have been living on London Road for at least 17 years and in the last six years the traffic has got worse on the A1. That is bad enough but now more traffic leaves the A1 on to
London road to slip back onto the A1 at the roundabout, starting from 7.30 in the morning, making it hard to pull out of your own drive. All the houses that back on to the A1 are sitting in pollution and has been no escape in the last six years. I am literally trapped in a fog of pollution from the back to the front of my house; this needs to be addressed urgently! If any – or all – of these strike a chord with you, please, drop us a line with your own specific concerns. as always, public support is vital so please drop us a line from the website. It will be public opinion that sways the decision makers and our petition is designed to do just that, not only in relation to the a1 bypass but also in relation to local roads. If you have yet to do so, please sign our petition online via our website – www.SG19.org – to support us.
EAST BEDS CONCERT BAND AT MOGGERHANGER! This year, the theme is “Best of British”, and once again, there will be a wide range of music from every corner of ‘this sceptred isle’: from Henry VIII’s very own ‘Pastime with Good Companie’, to a James Bond theme medley - an eclectic mix with something for all the family to enjoy. as usual, the audience are invited to bring a picnic, and rugs or chairs and to sit in the grounds whilst enjoying the wide selection of music. Not forgetting the opportunity to purchase fantastic home made icecream from Mr and Mrs Maynard. So make a date in your diaries East Beds Concert Band at Moggerhanger Playing Fields, Sunday 18th July Gates open at 2pm and concert starts at 3pm. Tickets on the door Adults £8, children £5 Family ticket (2+2) £18
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media are currently full of stories about ‘the drought’ and for many of us of a certain age, it seems a little odd to be talking in such terms when we still have heating on in our homes and the sun is almost as scarce as its wet counterpart! The truth is of course, that it is possible to have drought conditions without heat and that is pretty much what we have. So, what can be done? In 1976, the last time in this country we were officially affected by drought, someone from the water board (as it was referred to at the time) visited my primary school and encouraged us all to go home and put bricks in our toilet cistern to help conserve water. us children were encouraged/ bribed to do this by being given a shiney sticker which in 1970’s england was as exciting as life could get (well, kind of!). The stumbling block to this ingenious idea no doubt dreamt up by a Civil Service boffin was our mothers who much like my own asserted that she was ‘not having a dirty house brick put anywhere near the bathroom, thank you very much’! But if you want to keep your plants looking healthy, the best approach is in addition to conserving what we have is by using ‘brown’ water. That is, any
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but as useful as this is, you should also prioritize those plants that need a drink. The plant will tell you if it is not happy and of course, vegetables use water to swell in size but one thing in your garden that will definitely not need to be watered is the lawn. Very sadly, glow in the dark lawns have become fashionable in this country and although a green lawn is more attractive than a beige lawn, over fertilizing does not make for a healthy lawn nor does it benefit the wider environment.
When working at Moor Park Golf Club in the 1980s, we followed the advice of agronomist Jim arthur whose belief was simply that the finer grasses, those we were trying to encourage, thrive on impoverished conditions and drought and lack of fertilizer would actually be beneficial. In support of this idea, some of the finest fescues, the most slender and elegant of grass types, in this area can be found at the RSPB where out of the natural very free draining sand can be seen the most verdant grasses at any time of the year! So, carefully and regularly examine your plants and see if they are needing refreshment. If they are not, concentrate on those
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that are. The answer to last month’s just for fun question is: The only plant in Britain to be pollinated by a bird is the very stately and amazingly aromatic Crown Imperial Fritillary. exotic looking pineapple-esque foliage sprouts out of a metre high plant with Satsuma orange flowers and if surrounded by Forget Me Nots makes a very attractive display. at different times of the plants’ life, the pungent but not unpleasant scent of foxes and cannabis can be whiffed and although your neighbours might think you have recently had a trip to amsterdam, your garden will be all the better for having them. and as they are pollinated by Blue Tits you are likely to see increased numbers of these charming little birds also. More proof, that by doing a little in your garden, you can do a lot to help nature and then marvel from its fascinating show. This month’s just for fun question is, what is best thing to do to with stinging nettles in a garden? as usual, please email or ‘phone me with any gardening queries you may have on lawnDocGardens@ aol.com or 01767 627 581 or if you would like to write, please contact me via: lawn Doctor Gardening Services, 6 Sand lane, Northill, Bedfordshire
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JUNE 2017 BULLETIN — 13
Fire service is represented in the Lord-Lieutenant’s cadets
THe lord-lieutenant’s Cadet, 17year-old Kieran Stevenson from Sandy, was delighted to be part of the Royal Visit to Bedfordshire by HM The Queen and HRH The Duke of edinburgh on Tuesday 11 april. Kieran was appointed for a one year term of office in october 2016. Since joining the Bedfordshire Fire Cadets in 2013, he has been active in community work and has achieved the role of junior instructor. He is also working on his Duke of edinburgh Gold award and studying for his a levels. Kayleigh Jean, the Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service area Community Safety officer for Youth, said: “We are delighted that the fire service is represented in the lordlieutenants cadets. Kieran is an excellent ambassador for the service and performs his duties impeccably.” Kieran is the third fire cadet to represent the lord-lieutenant. This year, the lord-lieutenant has four cadets who represent fire, sea, air and armed forces. all four
ment has much to offer young people. It gives the opportunity to learn life skills while having a lot of fun!” Chief Fire officer Paul Fuller said: “We are the first Fire and Rescue Service to have a lordlieutenant’s cadet and it is a tremendous opportunity for the young person chosen and for relationship building for the Service. We are of course hugely grateful to the lord-lieutenant for her ongoing support.” ––––––––––––––––
Centre close to being ready
cadets support her on royal visits, honours receptions and civic ceremonies across the county. HM lord-lieutenant of Bedfordshire said: “The decision to include Fire Cadets in my lordlieutenant’s Cadet appointments has been a huge success. The three
young people who have held the position to date have proved to be confident, capable, reliable and have all gained the respect of the variety of royal, civic, charity and business people with whom they have engaged while supporting me in my role. The Fire Cadet move-
DeVeloPeRS of Biggleswade’s King’s Reach estate passed the community centre over to the council on Friday May 12, 2017. When the council have completed the fitting out, the centre will have a sports hall, meeting room and kitchen facilities. Deputy Mayor Cllr Michael North received the building on behalf of the council from; Paul Cave, Marketing Manager, Taylor Wimpey and Chris Hamilton, MD, Martin Grant Homes.
14 — BULLETIN JUNE 2017
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AROUND THE CLUBS BIGGLESWADE & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB
Chairman, Tony Gray, welcomed members to their meeting on Wednesday, 19th april with a special greeting to the new members and visitors. He informed the members that there was a new Garden Centre at arrington that was well worth a visit. There were spaces on the Swiss garden outing to Highgrove on 22nd June, include lunch and tea at a cost of £55.00. Tony introduced the speaker, long standing member, liz livermore who was to talk about ‘The Gardens & Temples of Japan’. liz explained that Japan, although on a level with North africa did not receive any warming from the Gulf Stream and therefore had a colder climate with snow in the winter. liz and David had visited Japan twice - the second time in March which was famous for the Cherry Blossom Season when the people visited the cherry trees especially in famous Veno Park in Tokyo, even taking photos, selfies, and holding picnics, parties and presentations under the trees. liz gave a brief history of Japan and how the emperor and Shoguns came to power. She showed many pictures of the famous temples and shrines in the towns which they had visited. She showed the most famous rock garden at the Golden Pavilion at Ryoaniji which consisted of fifteen rocks in a sea of gravel. The gardens, many of which were attached to the temples were typical of Japanese garden design with carefully placed rocks, tress and beautiful lakes and streams and looking immaculate. after questions, Tony thanked liz for a most interesting talk.
BIGGLESWADE IVEL EVENING TOWNSWOMEN’S GUILD
Chairman Chris Davies welcomed members to the meeting on Monday, May 8. ann Murkin the speaker for the evening gave a very interesting talk and slide show of her visit to the Galapagos Islands. They started their trip with a visit to Quito, ecuador before joining a small cruise ship in order to explore the islands. We were entertained with photos of frigate birds, sealions, marine iguana, crabs, turtles, stingrays, giant tortoise, flowers and fauna and monuments of interest all seen by ann and her husband albert. Their itinerary was constantly being updated as the authorities will close and open up islands in order to preserve the environment. During the trip they crossed the equator several times. She was thanked by Rosie Body. our Guild is very proud to have taken first prize at the recent social studies exhibition with our interpretation of Doh, Rae, Me the display was on show at tonight's meeting in order that members could view it. Chris Davies also took first and second in the photographic competition. Congratulations to all who took part. a car boot is to be held during the summer and members
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were asked to keep items that could be sold. Members were asked if they wished to knit blanket squares or baby clothes for the fistula appeal. last month saw members take a walk starting at Northill followed by lunch at the Shuttleworth collection; a social studies event and the federation annual general meeting tea party. Future events are a walk starting at Cockayne Hatley on Monday, May 22 meeting at 10.45am; an invitation to Sandy TG for their annual summer event on July 12; Hatfield afternoon TG dabble day July 10; federation quiz evening august 18 and the national carol service at Coventry cathedral December 12; outings have been arranged to the British schools museum at Hitchin Tuesday, May 23; Kew Gardens Friday, July 21; National arboretum, Staffordshire Thursday, october 5 and Worcester Victorian market Friday, December 1. The next meeting will be on Monday, June 12 when the speaker will be Rob Gaskell with a talk entitled 'e all come from amoeba'; the competition will be for an item beginning with the letter W. The guild meets on the second Monday of the month 7.30 pm at the Weatherley Centre new member and visitors are very welcome
ers. The friends raised £3000 to build an indoor school in the grounds of the orthopaedic Hospital at Moggerhanger. By 1970 hospitals and special school were accessing the riding service. Sadly the hospital closed after 23years and there was a campaign to keep both open. Ivan Twigden donated three acres at Willington for a new centre and the volunteers went on to raise £120.000.00 It is not a normal riding school but only for the disabled in all genres. The riders receive physical, emotional & educational benefits and learn social skills. The exercise helps the riders to achieve and retain balance, relaxation, co-ordination, to improve circulation and muscle power and enhance their self-esteem. The centre has no government funding and needs to raise £25.000 per year for running costs. They were honoured to receive The Queen’s award for Voluntary Service last year. The Chairman gave the vote of thanks for a most interesting and educational afternoon. Closing the meeting the Chairman reminded them that the next meeting would be on 13th June when the speaker will be Vic Botterill talking about ‘Body language’.
IVEL VALLEY U3A
The Biggleswade Branch of the Royal artillery association held a Branch Meeting and annual general Meeting on 3rd May 2017, at the Sea Cadets Hall. There were sixteen members present. The Chairman recited The Royal artillery Prayer. apologies were received from five members. New member Stuart Stephenson was welcomed into the Branch. The minutes of the March Branch meeting were read. No meeting took place in april. The Treasurers report was received. The War Pensioner annual Garden Party was again discussed briefly. The visit Royal Military academy at Shrivenham has been postponed for the time being and the President is to continue contact with the new officer in charge. There was no further information on the proposed visit to the Royal Hospital Chelsea and National army Museum was discussed. The Chairman, Secretary and the President and Mrs. Harragan attended the Mayor’s Civic Service on behalf of the Branch. The President and Mrs. Harragan accompanied by Mick and Paula king attended the Gunner Sunday at the Royal hospital Chelsea on behalf of the Branch. The Chairman presented past Treasurer Ken Page with a plaque as a thank you for his service to the Branch. The Chairman called for volunteers to train on the aeD which the Sea Cadets have installed, and one member volunteered. Tickets for the The Royal artillery Grand Draw are still available. The Royal artillery association exists to look after the welfare of and foster comradeship between members of the Royal artillery both serving and retired. ex-Service 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 7th June). Please contact the Chairman Ted McKenzie on 07900806235 or e Mail tiger.ted@gmail.com for more details.
ann Taylor, Chairman, welcomed the members of the Ivel Valley u3a to their May meeting. The april Social afternoon with armchair aerobics had been great fun and all had enjoyed it. There was a report about ‘The Findings & Recommendations of the Working Group into the Structure of the Third age’ for the members to look at if interested. The secretary and treasurer had nothing to report. The art group will resume meeting at Sylvia Ditch’s house in September. Book Group 1 will meet on 5th June at Jean Williams’ house. Book Group 2 are meeting on Friday 12th June at Nettie Van de Weerd’s house. The Craft group met at Pat Warren’s house on 18th May when they made fabric pots. The Music Group met on Tuesday 16th at Jennifer’s house. The Walking Group, with Pat Warren leading, met at the Danish Camp. The Sunday lunch Club met at the Wheatsheaf, Tempsford. Chris Davies gave details of the outings that she is organising this year. There is a day trip to Kew Gardens on Friday 21st July at a cost of £25.00. There will be an opportunity to visit the National arboretum, Stafford on 5th october at a cost of £15.00. on the 1st December there will be an outing to visit Worcester Christmas Market at a cost of £17.00.For those interested there is an outing to Brooklands Museum and Mercedes Benz World in September 20th. ann thanked those members who had supported her son in the running the london Marathon and said that the total raised to date for The Max appeal was over £3253.00. The chairman introduced the speaker, Rebecca Twigden, who was to talk about ‘accessing Sport for Disabled Children’. Rebecca introduced her companion, Marnie, who told the members about Bedford & District Riding for the Disabled. This is based in Willington and staffed by volunteers. The story began with a little girl called Jean who had been injured in a bicycle accident. lady Miriam Godber had taken Jean up in front of her whilst riding and had noticed how her muscles and posture had improved by this gentle exercise. By 1961 lady Godber had been sent her first 4 rid-
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ROYAL ARTILLERY ASSOCIATION
Three wheelers return home Berkeley car owners gathered in Biggleswade’s market square on Sunday May 21st. The cars were manufactured here in the the town. The former factory is now a housing estate but the cars live on – fibre glass bodies – motor cycle engines from various makers have enabled these cars to survive for over 50 years.
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sport
FOOTBALL – BY MICHAEL DRAXLER
Our man Ian Brown
BIGGLESWADE TOWN...........4 FROME........................................1
aN emotionally charged atmosphere at the langford Road Stadium as we said goodbye to another Wader Hero. It was Ian Brown's day, the result of little consequence. a real celebration and thank you to our man for being our keeper for the past four seasons. He has on occasions pulled off world class saves, some just in a days work for the very likeable guy between the posts. I personally will miss him and I know not only the Biggleswade fans but the fans wherever we go, love Ian and will ask and be disappointed he is no longer our man. Best of luck Ian whatever your plans. We also said goodbye to our physio Colin Hodsden, quiet but effective. Both of course will be welcome anytime at the langford Road. Now for the match. at the beginning a win would take us into seventh place and 74 points our highest ever. last bank holiday it start-
ed badly at Hitchin but Biggleswade went ahead after two plus minutes through Tony Burnett. Rhys Hoenes had a shot into the midriff of Kyle Phillips in the Frome goal but after that I think we all went to sleep as the ball spent an eternity in the air. Frome, I cant remember having a serious shot inside the first 45. out for the second period and the end of term lethargy continued with possibly Frome edging the chances as our man had a chance to shine on his last appearance. on 74 an alleged handball by Robbie Parker gave Frome the opening. Jake Jackson stepped up and true to Roy of the Rovers, the man of the day saved it. alas, the ball bounced back to Jackson who buried the second chance. The battle for 7th place was now on, win or draw it was Frome, Biggleswade had to win. Frome gained in confidence and looked the more likely after the fortuitous equaliser. Step up Manager Nunn, fresh legs from Michael Richens and luke emery, off go Ian Rees and Connor Vincent. It only takes a minute and I
JUNE 2017 BULLETIN — 15
Sensational start!
BIGGleSWaDe athletic Club competitors have got the track and field season off to a sensational start, with a string of victories, records and personal bests. on May Day euan Dickson-earle took 110m hurdles gold by onehundredth of a second at the British universities and Colleges Championships, while at the Bedfordshire County Championships on 14 May athletes returned with 11 titles and a host of top three placings. on the road, Julie Balaam won the 20-mile county title in oakley on her return to running after starting a family, and followed up with third place in the women’s standings at the Halstead & essex Marathon, while Charlie arnold was third in the over-60 standings at the Milton Keynes Half-Marathon. Meanwhile aspiring new runners are finding their feet as part of the club's Couch to 5k programme, and this month many of the course's first graduates from the inaugural scheme last year will be taking part in their first half marathon. also in June, Sandy Track is set return to action after several months of refurbishment and upgrades, and with london shortly to host the World athletics Championships, it's an ideal time to be put through your paces on the freshest track surface in the uK. Whatever your age or ability, there's plenty of opportunities to compete, helped along by a brilliant team of coaches. The club is always delighted to welcome new faces, so check out the training and club calendar pages at www.biggleswadeac.org.uk and pop along to try a session for free.
am still marking up the substitutes when Magical Tony gets his second of the game. three minutes later and luke emery is on the end of a Burnett cross to make it 3-1. In the final throws of the season Rhys Hoenes, trademark run and cross, flicked on by emery to Captain Craig Daniel to score the last
goal of the16/17 campaign. The game won, another three points and seventh in the premier league. The end of a brilliant season. august is just around the corner and we at the Waders have much to do before then. Have a great summer. up the Waders.
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The omnipresent ‘Hatters’ reporter
16 — BULLETIN JUNE 2017
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BRIAN SWAIN
BRIaN SWaIN, who has died aged 78, was a legendary luton Town reporter who once drove an old banger through the snow to liverpool only to arrive and be confronted by an angry Kenny Dalglish who wanted to know how he’d managed to get there whereas the club had rung through to say that conditions were impossible and the game was off. ‘Swainey’ was sports editor of the luton News for 25 years and worked at Kenilworth Road for a further seven years as a freelance and programme editor. He was born in luton on May 9, 1938, and died in Falmouth on april 30, 2017. Brian attended Dunstable Grammar School from 1949 until 1954, and his love affair with the Hatters began during the Second World War when, aged five, he drifted into Kenilworth Road for a reserve match and was hooked. later, he even joined the St John ambulance so that he could sit by the touchline at matches. He wanted to be a journalist right from the outset. There were no vacancies at the luton News at that time, so he joined Whitbread Brewery in luton for a few months until one arose. at that point he became a copy holder in the readers’ department (proof checking). He became a reporter and after his indentures moved to a Manchester evening newspaper based in Bolton. He did his National Service in the Intelligence Corps while based in Cyprus. The Bolton paper closed and Brian returned to the luton News as deputy chief reporter before becoming industrial correspondent. In 1972 the then sports editor of the luton News, eric Pugh (bylined as Chiltern) died and at Christmas of the same year Brian was appointed in his place. He said: “It was my dream job and the best Christmas present I ever had.” He also became the first lN sports editor to write under his own name. For 25 years, Brian drove the highways of the country to report on the Hatters, and after leaving the luton News in 1997, he spent a further seven years as a freelance. His last home game before retirement was luton’s 3-2 win over Sheffield Wednesday and the following week, he brought down the curtain on 1,629 domestic matches at Chesterfield, where the hosts acknowledged his service and presented him with a bottle of champagne. Brian and his wife, Rosemary, left for Falmouth, the Cornish town that Brian had fallen in love with as a youngster on family holidays, to fulfil a plan to settle there. Not long after the move, Brian received a payment out of the blue from the pension fund of his old northern paper – he’d forgotten that he’d even joined the fund and joyfully treated himself to a Yamaha motorbike and rode around the Cornish lanes, recalling the pre-M1/M6 days when he’d driven up and down from luton to Manchester.
Kenilworth Road – the dark days when the sale of midfielder Peter anderson staved off bankruptcy, the acrimony over the proposed move to Milton Keynes, the plastic pitch and the ban on away fans, as well as promotion and relegation. During this time Brian had also became the voice of luton Town on Chiltern Radio and his most memorable moment came in 1983 when luton had to beat Manchester City to remain in the First Division. In those pre-internet days, Brian’s bulletins were the only way those who couldn’t attend knew what was happening. With five minutes to go Mike Vince, the studio presenter, said: “Well, we’re hearing that a goal has been scored at Maine Road and we’ll go over to Brian Swain after this record”, at which point Brian could be heard shouting in the background: “Put me on! Put me on! Put me on NoW! luton have scored!” a later innovation with which Brian was connected was Club Call, a premium-rate line on which Brian would update callers on luton developments. He cunningly spun out his introductions to make sure that subscribers paid a good sum to find out the latest. Dennis o’Donoghue, who helped Brian in the press box for nearly 30 years, said: “He was an absolute professional. In all the years I worked with him while he was broadcasting and filing reports, I didn’t see him actually write down a single word of copy! He dictated everything off the top of his head. and it was all totally accurate, beautifully constructed and a pleasure to read and hear. He was a remarkable journalist who would have been a great asset to any ‘Fleet Street’ newspaper, but who chose to stay with the life and club he loved. on top of that, he had a heart as big as a house.” Brian was a sociable man who loved his football and the company of football fans, delighting in spending what he called “the housekeeping” at the bar. once settled in Cornwall, he would walk up to Falmouth Town’s ground and smoke a cigar, drink a scotch and get to know the people – so much so that he was asked to become the club secretary. He accepted and for a few years ran the club, reuniting with luton Town legend Bruce Rioch, who had moved to the area, and who came in to help with the training just to keep his hand in. Brian had been a respected local league referee in luton, who was often told to “take your glasses off, ref!”, and was a founder member and later vice-president of the luton Town Supporters Club. For many years, he was also secretary of the luton Midweek Cricket league. He was a keen trade unionist and held positions at regional level in the National union of Journalists. His health declined over a number of years but Brian was still determined to make one more day trip to Kenilworth Road. Sadly, it was not to be, but he was proud to be able to make the drive to Plymouth last year to see his beloved Hatters one more time. Dennis O’Donoghue
Photograph courtesty of Gareth Owen.
May 5, 1938 – April 30, 2017
Many of our readers are avid supporters of the ‘Hatters’ and it was with great sadness we learnt of the recent passing of Brian Swain who had reported on the team’s performances for over 32 years. We share the thoughts of one his journalistic colleagues with you.
even in retirement, and ever the long-distance traveller, Brian would set off early from Falmouth a couple of times a year, present himself at the Rising Sun in Slip end or the now-defunct Harrow at Woodside (both near luton) at opening time, have a few drinks with old friends, go down to Kenilworth Road for the match, return to the pub for one final drink, set off for Cornwall and be home in time for Match of the Day. Brian’s travels were legendary. He would use the train but mainly it would be a series of heavy-duty Fords that took the strain. His most memorable journey was when he battled through the snow to anfield in 1987 only to find that the game was off because the Hatters’ flight from Heathrow had been grounded. an incandescent Kenny Dalglish, the liverpool manager at the time, kept pointing at Brian and shouting: “He managed to get here!” The boredom of the travelling was enlivened by the company Brian kept. If the match was in the North, Brian would often meet up with the late Roger Duckworth, formerly of the luton evening Post and The Sun. But his constant companion was the late Roy Bentley, former sports news editor of The Sun and a luton Town “nut”. over the years, he would be joined by any combination of luton News photographer Mark Richards, deputy sports editor the late eric Norris, evening Post reporter the late eric Harris, former luton News deputy editor Den o’Donoghue, club photographer Gareth owen, Northampton Chronicle sports reporter andy Roberts and press box assistant Danny Fallon. over the course of 25 years Brian reported faithfully and honestly on the highs and lows at
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Ben charges from last to podium
BeN Tuck again proved his credentials by staging a stunning drive from last to the podium at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps racing circuit in Belgium. In an uncanny repeat of his last outing to Spa in 2015, Ben Tuck again demonstrated his affinity with the iconic Formula 1 circuit by driving a spectacular charge through the entire field after a near catastrophic crash on Saturday. In a weekend of mixed weather and mixed fortunes, Ben Tuck recovered from the devastating accident in Race 1 before leading and then taking an incredible second place finish on Sunday in Race 2. amid the changeable weather at the beautiful track set in the hilly ardennes forest, the weekend's problems started in qualifying. Ben's Team, PT Sports Cars had prepared his #62 Caterham Supersport to perfection and Ben calmly posted a qualifying time 0.4 seconds quicker than anybody else. However, due to an, as yet unexplained problem, he was only credited with his second fastest time, making him fifth. With all appeals and protests being rejected, Ben was forced to roll out on the third row of the Caterham Supersport grid for Race 1. In a departure from the normal format, the race was run with two classes starting on the same grid with the faster Caterham 420R class lined up in front of the Supersport grid. This effectively resulted in a grid slot some 15 rows back from the lights and directly in the middle of over 50 cars in the headlong rush to the hairpin corner at turn one. at lights out Ben got away cleanly, however the inevitable collisions occurred at the first corner resulting in near stationary cars on the track when Ben arrived. The resulting impact caused massive damage and resulted in Ben having to retire the car. The PT Sports Cars pit crew
swung into action and worked into the night to rebuild the battered car and by Sunday morning, it was fully operational and ready to go. as Ben lined up in 23rd and last place, his perspective was all too familiar. In 2015 Ben started a Mazda Mx-5 race at Spa in 36th position at the back of the grid after a non-finish in Race 1. The race ended with Ben claiming fifth and taking the unofficial Mazda Mx-5 SpaFrancorchamps lap record. This year, Ben was determined to better that record. over the next 35 minutes Ben put in a mesmerising performance, carving his way through the field, reaching the leading pack just two laps later. Six more laps saw him take the lead of the race triggering a fierce battle amongst the leading five for the honours. after a confusing final few minutes when the officials showed the last lap board one lap early, Ben eventually crossed the line in second place, having taken the Spa Caterham Supersport lap record to go with 2016 Croft Caterham Supersport lap record. "I'm so happy to take that result to thank the team and my race engineer and mechanics for the huge amount of effort what went into rebuilding the car" said Ben.
New season Open Day
SANDY Town Bowling Club kicked off their new season in the bright sunlight with a very successful Public Open Day. The club had invited members of the public to ‘Try Lawn Bowls’ as part of an Open Day. Ray Swinnerton, a club Life Member, bowled the traditional first wood of the new season. This was followed by an array of bowls activities, including Target Bowls! The club’s qualified coaches were on hand to support and give advice. Head of Coaching, Derek Reader, said afterwards: “This was a really successful event. We had very good turnout from the public, most of whom had never bowled a wood before, and they all seemed to thoroughly enjoy it. There was a good spread of people too, male and female of all ages down to two children under twelve. Here’s to a good season.” www.sandytownbowlingclub.org.uk
JUNE 2017 BULLETIN — 17
18 — BULLETIN JUNE 2017
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Biggleswade History Society 1839 – A strange theft from the Swan Inn While searching the British Newspaper Archive online for stories connected with Biggleswade I came upon the following rather amusing story in the Cambridge Independent Press and Huntingdon, Bedford & Peterborough Gazette of 18 May 1839:
BIGGLESWADE
Robbery – a travelling man, having the appearance of a Scotchman, a few days ago went to the Swan Inn, Biggleswade, and stole a bird-cage, 8 quoits, a hatchet and 14 glass bottles; the quoits were sold to a Mr. Cook, broker in Biggleswade, the bottles to Mrs. Bowers, Beeston; and the hatchet to Mr. Dines, Beeston. Mr Graves junior, having heard of a man being at Beeston, went after him, but he had left; when Mr. Graves pursued him, and took him at Tempsford with the bird-cage in his possession. He was taken before F. Pym, esq, and committed to take his trial at the sessions.” This happened before the railway came to Biggleswade, when london Road, the High Street and Shortmead Street formed part of the Great North Road from london to edinburgh, passing through what was then still a small but prosperous market town. In 1839 the Swan (which stood on the corner opposite the Crown) together with the Crown, the Rose and Royal oak, were the principal inns catering for the many mail and passenger stage coaches along this major highway and private carriages, long distance and local waggons, horse-drawn tradesmen’s vehicles, riders and pedestrians were constantly coming in and out of 1. Indoor meetings at Trinity Methodist Church have now ceased for the summer and are replaced by evening walks and visits to places of local interest in the months of June, July and august. Numbers for these outings are limited and are therefore restricted to members only. The first visit – a walk in the village of Dunton hosted by the March Hare – takes place on Monday evening 5 June and is fully booked. 2. Monthly evening indoor meetings with guest speakers resume on 4 September. entrance is free to members. Non-member visitors are also welcome to attend any talk for a donation of £3.00 payable at the door. See our programme on this page. 3. There was a full house at Trinity Methodist Church on 8 May for our last speaker of the season, Roy Smart and his superb presentation about amy Johnson. With the aid of photographs, music and archive audio recordings and film he talked us through the fascinating story of the life and loves of ‘the nation’s sweetheart of the air’, the adventurous, determined young woman born in
NEWS
the town. But not all of them were welcome visitors. What intrigued me first of all was what gave the thief the appearance of a Scotsman? Was he wearing a kilt, or tartan, or a Tam o’ Shanter hat perhaps? Secondly, what a strange assortment of objects to steal! He may not have been very clever in his choice of ill-gotten goods but was pretty good at finding buyers and was making his getaway northward on the Great North Road, selling as he went. unfortunately for him, on reaching Tempsford he had failed to sell the one object that was the most difficult to conceal and made him
1903 in Hull who pursued her dream of becoming a pilot and shot from obscurity to worldwide fame in 1930, when she achieved a solo flight of 11.000 miles from london to Darwin in australia in 19 days, flying her Gipsy Moth biplane in stages, often for ten to twelve hours at a time, in an open cockpit. The next ten years saw several recordbreaking flights, global celebrity and two failed marriages, after which the Second World War began and amy returned to london. on war service in the air Transport auxiliary as First officer Johnson, on 5 January 1941 she took off from Blackpool to deliver an aircraft to RaF Kidlington near oxford. In poor weather conditions she went off course and, it is believed, ran out of fuel. Her aircraft was seen to ditch in the Thames estuary off Southend and amy parachuted into the sea, but a valiant attempt to save her ended in tragedy and her body was never recovered.
Formed in 1974, we are a voluntary organisation and registered charity with a large membership. We aim to preserve, protect and further knowledge of Biggleswade’s history and
ABOUT THE SOCIETY
most conspicuous, so it must have been an easy task for his pursuer to track him down. I imagined Mr Graves on horseback stopping along the road to ask, “Have you seen a man in a kilt passing this way carrying a bird cage?” of course, our thief was caught red-handed! He was taken for examination to Francis Pym, the Justice of the Peace who lived at Hasells Hall near Sandy and from there would have been sent to Bedford Gaol to await trial at the next Quarter Sessions. It is likely that the sentence would have been transportation to australia for seven years but that is yet to find out and is on my long ‘to do’ list.
heritage for present and future generations to appreciate and enjoy. For our members we hold monthly meetings and produce an informative monthly newsletter. The Society’s committee for 201718 comprises: Sandra Ransom (Chairman and archivist); Ian Bond (Vice Chairman); Stephanie Smith (Secretary); John Baldwin (Treasurer); Jane Dale (editor); Paul artiss (Displays and Publication Sales); David Skinner and Jennifer Topham. our life President is Ken Page.
05 Jun: Members only visit to Dunton hosted by the March Hare. 03 Jul: Members only walk in Tempsford Church end with historian Steve Cooney. 07 aug: Members only visit. Details to be announced. 04 Sep: ‘life on the Home front during WW1’ – a talk by anne Wise. 02 oct: ‘Wind & Water Mills and the iller’s life’ – a talk by Robin Webb. 06 Nov: ‘The Good, Indifferent & outrageous’ – a talk by David Short about rural schoolmasters.
2017 PROGRAMME
early Dec: Members’ Christmas Party.
For information visit our website: www.biggleswadehistory.org.uk Readers can also contact Jane Dale, the Society’s editor, on 01767 650340 our local history publications are available to all at the low price of £1.00 each. See details on the website or contact Paul artiss on 01767 666187 for enquiries and orders.
CONTACT US
our membership year runs from 1 april 2017 to 31 March 2018 and the annual subscription is very good value at £7.50 per person, which covers entry to all indoor meetings with speakers and a regular monthly newsletter packed with information and interesting features. New members receive a welcome pack containing a gift of one of our publications. Newsletters can be delivered free by email, or by hand to most addresses in Biggleswade, or by post for an additional £6.00 per year. To join, download an application form from our website or contact the Society’s editor.
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JUNE 2017 BULLETIN — 19
out & about Take a tour of Southill Park Southill Park, Southill, Biggleswade SG18 9LJ Wednesday June 7, starting at 10.30am.
Southill Park, rebuilt in the 1720s was remodelled by Henry Holland in the late 1790s. Holland was the fashionable architect of the day; who reconstructed Carlton House for The Prince of Wales (late George IV) and worked on Woburn and althorp. Capability Brown created the majority of the present landscape park and lake in 1777 which now
includes about four hectares of ornamental gardens. Southill stands very much as it did in 1806. Much of the decoration is as Holland left it and most of the furniture was designed by him for the rooms in which it stands. The morning tour, guided by Charles Whitbread and James Collett-White, starts at 10.30am exploring the house, art and furniture with a chance to see the garden towards the end, finishing at approx. 12.45pm. Tickets cost £12 per person – to book your place: 01234 352899 or email:paulsutherland@bedsgarden carers.org.uk.
What’s your best bit? Quarry Theatre, Bedford July 21-23
From Friday 21st to Sunday 23rd July Bedford will host the 11th International Bedford Festival Fringe bringing to the town a carefully selected programme of comedy, theatre, live music, film, dance and physical theatre to your doorstep. all these events will be held exclusively at The Quarry Theatre. So this year we are going small. Why you ask? Well, frankly because I (James… Pride of Bedford award Winner 2016!) now have a baby and on top of this, am also planning a wedding for 4th august. I thought organising a ten-day festival as well might be pushing it a little. Good things can come in small packages so they say! even over three days the team have crammed in some 40+ events. as it was such a success last
year, lCH Production Services and Remedy Sound have put a stage in the garden once again so please do enjoy the free fringe events that have been programmed (dance / theatre and live music!) but we do ask you to perhaps pay what you think (the artists need to eat!). The brochure is now live and all events are on sale so please visit www.bedfringe.com to start your fringe journey! www.bedfringe.com
20 — BULLETIN JUNE 2017
Woburn Safari Park
This summer, meet some of the newest safari stars and get closer than ever to the amazing wildlife at Woburn Safari Park. adventure by car in the Road Safari parkland animal reserves; then explore the Foot Safari and watch educational keeper talks and demonstrations. You’ll see three mischievous black bear cubs – alabama, Sekani and Kaska – all born last year and living in the Kingdom of Carnivores, alongside a family of Canadian timber wolves and seven other black bears. animal encounters in the Foot Safari is home to the newest walkthrough enclosure, giving you chance to meet the lovely group of donkeys, goats, sheep, pigs and ponies. ‘Farmyard Friends’ takes you face to face with these friendly animals…don't forget to bring your camera for that perfect selfie! Meet new arrivals Vinnie and Viv the bush dogs, at 'Cachorro Range'. a South american canid
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species that will hopefully breed a future of adorable bush pups! You’ll also see new species agouti (large rodents) and spiny-tailed iguana, and later this year keepers will be welcoming red panda and tawny frogmouths to the park! Summer events listing: 4th June – Dinosaurs on Safari: meet the huge T-rex, baby Triceratops and Brontosaurus and their safari keepers. 25th June – meet owlette and Catboy from PJ Masks, appearing at intervals throughout the day. 29-30th July – Tiger charity weekend with tiger games and mini VIP trips, in aid of the amur leopard and Tiger alliance 30th July – Meet Marshall from Paw Patrol, appearing at intervals throughout the day. 21-28th august – Charity fundraising fun in aid of TuSK, with games and mini VIP trips to meet the animals 28th august - Meet everyone’s favourite cheeky friend - Peppa Pig, appearing at intervals throughout the day.
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Knights of Arkley Return to Battle Knebworth House 18th June Fathers’ Day
Dads are in for a treat this Father’s Day as on 18th June Knebworth House is hosting its annual Medieval Jousting event with two scheduled jousting displays at about 12.30 and 2.30 pm, depending on the weather. The Knights of arkley demonstrate their skills in hand-tohand combat to the delight of the crowds who are encouraged to cheer and jeer their favourites. The turrets and towers of Knebworth House provide a spectacular backdrop to the costumed knights on majestic warhorses galloping at full tilt across the arena in a fantastic display of horsemanship. Come dressed for the occasion, or look at the wide range of children’s jousting gear for sale in the lovely shop. and why not follow
your visit with a cup of tea and some delicious home-made cakes in the Garden Terrace Tea Room? Season ticket holders qualify for 10% off in both! For even more family fun, the Green Dragon Bowmen archery Club, who are based at Knebworth Park, will be offering visitors the chance to try some archery, £2 for 6 arrows. Full instruction will be given, so have a go! This event is included with a 2017 Season Ticket or with a Park & Gardens admission ticket. It’s a fantastic value day out - for just £9.50 per person (under 3’s go free), families can enjoy a day at the Gardens, Park, adventure Playground and fantastic trail of 72 life-sized dinosaurs. TRINITY MeTHoDIST CHuRCH
Shortmead Street, Biggleswade Sunday June 4th 10.30am a Special Pentecost Cafe style worship to be led by Rev. Prof Peter Byass a Bring and share lunch will follow this service. 6.00pm There will be an open air Pentecost service at St. andrew's C of e church Shortmead Street (refreshments will be served beforehand) Sunday June 11th 9.30am a communion service led by Rev. Prof. Peter Byass. 10.30am Hazel Hitch will lead the service. Sunday June 18th 10.30am Christine Denny will lead the service. 6.00pm an informal service led by Hazel Hitch. Band will accompany. Sunday June 25th 10.30am Rev. Prof Peter Byass will lead a communion service. Sunday July 2nd 10.30am a Plant cafe style service. Sunday July 9th 9.30am a communion service led by Rev. Prof Peter Byass. 10.30am Rev. Prof .Peter Byass will lead the service. Sunday July 16th 10.30am Helen Boshier will lead the service. 6 00pm The service will be a local worship arrangement. Band will accompany. Sunday July 23rd 10.30am Rev. Prof. Peter Byass will lead a communion service. Sunday July 30th No SeRVICe aT TRINITY but a service will be held at 10.30am at upper Caldecote Methodist church. 6.00pm a circuit service of Healing and laying on of hands will be held at Cardington Methodist church led by Rev. andrew Hollins.
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
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JUNE 2017 BULLETIN — 21
Biggleswade Baptist Church is pleased to be hosting an Alpha course this coming autumn.
Alpha is an opportunity to explore life and the Christian faith in a friendly, open and informal environment. Every session starts with a free meal and has a short talk followed by discussions in small groups. Over 29 million people in 169 countries have done the course!
Following an introductory evening at 7.30pm on Thursday 14th September, there are 10 weekly sessions (all Thursdays, all 7.30-9.30pm), with a break for half term.
If you would like to reserve a place, or have any questions about the course, please call 01767 312667 (church office), text 07818 628235; or e-mail alpha@bbchurch.org.uk
www.alpha/org
BIGGLESWADE SPORTS MEETING 67th Annual Athletic & Grass Track & Cycle Meeting
UNDER AAA RULES RULES – BCF LAWS
FAIRFIELD, BIGGLESWADE 1pm SATURDAY 8th JULY 2017
TRACK EVENTS FOR ALL AGES –MALE AND FEMALE
Admission: Adults 50p, Children 20p MEDAL & PRIZES FOR ALL EVENTS INCLUDING RELAYS
Des Ball, Event Secretary Tel: 01767 313790
22 — BULLETIN JUNE 2017
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– FRIeNDS oF SHoRTMeaD BEESTON OPEN are holding an GARDENS OPEN GARDEN EVENT Sunday June 11th from 2pm to 5pm (see advert on page 19) There will be plant sales, afternoon teas, tea and coffee, cakes and light refreshments. The bar will also be open.
–––––––––––––––––––––––– BEESTON WALK FOR HEALTH
We meet every Monday at 10.00 a.m. by the letter box at the junction of The Crescent and The Green. The walk is a first level gentle walk so we do about 30 – 40 minutes in the flat fields beyond Beeston Green. I will walk as slowly as the slowest person needs. It’s a ‘just turn up’ walk. Next walk 12th June then weekly as from 26th June Gillian Wilkes 07890 232685 grewilkes@gmail.com
–––––––––––––––––––––––– SANDY WALKS 4 HEALTH
Sandy Walks 4 Health meet every Wednesday. These are free short walks ofabout 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
–––––––––––––––––––––––– 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.
–––––––––––––––––––––––– THE SANDY UKULELE GROUP meet every Friday at the Baptist Chapel Hall, Bedford Road, Sandy. 7pm till 9pm. For more information on joining the group please email the group : Sandyukulelegroup1@gmail.com www.Sandyukulelegroup.com
Sunday 11th June 2pm - 6pm Nine gardens will be open. entry £4 per adult and children free. Programmes and raffle tickets will be available at each open garden and there’s ample car parking at the north end of the village. There will be a plant stall and delicious refreshments served all afternoon. all proceeds go to the local community and national charities. everyone welcome. www.beestonopengardens.org.uk
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TENNIS FOR
BEGINNERS CHILDREN – ADULTS SENIORS EXPERIENCED PL AYERS
ALL WELCOME Jack: 01767 692242 www.biggleswadetennis.co.uk
–––––––––––––––––––––––– SaNDY FloWeR CluB Monday 12th June
FLORAL DEMONSTRATION
by Sarah Long titled ‘Sweet Smell of Summer’ 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
–––––––––––––––––––––––– 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!
–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– BADMINTON CANCER SUPPORT We are a social mixed group who meet every GROUP Thursday night at Stratton School to play 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.
Badminton, from 8pm till 10pm in the Sports Hall, we are of mixed ability but most are of an intermediate standard To find out more please contact Alan on 07974187866 or Colin on 01767 317099
–––––––––––––––––––––––– We invite all stroke survivors & their carers to join our
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.
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EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com BIGGleSWaDe BRaNCH RoYal BRITISH leGIoN St andrews Church Rooms in Biggleswade meeTInGS 28th Jun 17 @ 7pm 26th Jul 17 @ 7pm 27th Sep 17 @ 2.30pm 25th Oct @ 2.30pm AGM will take place on Wednesday 29th November at 2.30pm in the same location. We are always welcoming new members, whether they were military, attached to the military either as Civil servants, or through family or even if they have nothing to do with the military at all, we would love to see new faces, young or old.
–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– Following its successful concert with Biggleswade and District Choral Society and leighton Buzzard Festival Singers in Bedford in april, St Mary’s Singers Potton is staging
MAGIC OF THE MUSICALS
an evening of songs from some of the world’s most popular shows, ranging from Phantom of the opera to South Pacific. Friday, 30th June and Saturday, 1st July at 7.30pm each evening at St Mary’s Church, Hatley Road, Potton SG19 2RP. Tickets are adults £10 and Children £5 (16 and under) and include refreshments. They may be obtained from choir members, G Tyson & Sons, Market Square, Potton and Val Whiteley (01767 601877)
–––––––––––––––––––––––– RoTaRY CluB oF BIGGleSWaDe IVel
BIGGLESWADE GREEN WHEEL
COMMUNITY WALKS
Jordan’s Mill Charity Fun Day Saturday 6th May 9.30am registration for the walk 10am – 4pm for the Charity Day Choose either 7 ½ & 3 ½ mile walks and enjoy the charity stands and tea For further details of the walks contact Colin McCartney www, ivelrotary.org.uk or contact 01767314669 For full details and walk entry form For details of manning or visiting a stand at the Charity Day contact Dawn Walton at dawn.walton@jordans mill.com Toby Frost at toby.frost@jordansmill.com
–––––––––––––––––––––––– CONCERT by the award Winning
HITCHIn BAnD
Saturday 3rd June at 7.30pm St. Swithun’s Church, Sandy In aid of The leprosy Mission. admission £5 by ticket or on the door. Contact organiser Colin osborne on 01767 682032 for further information.
–––––––––––––––––––––––– THE IVEL BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT CENTRE
HaS a loVeD oNe DIeD? Perhaps we can help you at our drop-in centre at: The Community Rooms, Baptist church, 24 London Road, Biggleswade SG18 8EB Wednesdays 10am – 12 noon Telephone: Carole or Jill on 07704 734225 for more information. • a place of friendship, compassion and understanding. • Fully trained bereavement support volunteers are always on hand to listen while you talk through your grief. • Somewhere to meet others coping with bereavement issues. • Come and make new friends – a warm welcome awaits you.
–––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 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 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 MK44 3Sx
SaNDY FloWeR CluB Monday 8th May
–––––––––––––––––––––––– FLORAL DEMONSTRATION
by Jenni Baker titled “Whiskers on Kittens”. 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
SaVe THe CHIlDReN Thanks to all of you who supported SaVe THe CHIlDReN at the last QuINGo you helped raise £534 and the eaSTeR TRaIl/CoFFee MoRNING where you helped raise £623. The next
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are September 21st, October 19th and November 16th.
QUINGOS
THE CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT are December 5th/7th BReaKaWaY are holding a
TREASURE TRAIL
round a local village the evening of June 15th If you are interested in any of these events please email Susan superduch5@gmail.com or ring 07773962347
–––––––––––––––––––––––– BUGGY FIT CLASSES Thursday 1pm-2pm The Weatherly Centre Orchard Close Biggleswade SG18 0NE To book, please email robyn1.sg@gmail.com or call 0300 300 5125. Tuesday 12-2pm Saxon Pool and Leisure Centre, Biggleswade £2 per session
Tuesday 2pm-3pm @ Saxon Pool & Leisure Centre, Biggleswade £1.50 per session Please note: all classes are subject to change, so please email us on physical.activity@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk for more information
WALKING FOOTBALL
–––––––––––––––––––––––– 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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POSH PATIOS AND DESIRABLE DRIVES
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JUNE 2017 BULLETIN — 23
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www.pcdrivestyle.co.uk The Bulletin series are independent magazines with no affiliation to any other organisation. ©2017 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