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Celebrating 40 years
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Celebrating 40 years
4 — KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016
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KEMPSTON TOWN COUNCIL 104 Bedford Road, Kempston, Bedford, MK42 8BG Tel: 01234 851005 www.kempstontowncouncil.com Email: kempstoncouncil@btconnect.com Office hours: 10am to 3pm Monday to Friday
Season’s Greeting from all of us at Kempston Town Council
Senior Citizens’ Event
The Mayor of Kempston (Cllr Carl Meader) invites senior citizens of Kempston to join him and Town Councillors for a festive mince pie and refreshments on 14 December between 2-4pm at the Centenary Hall, Kempston. The Mayor would love to see you there. Please call the office on 851005 if you wish to attend.
Still hopeful
Kempston Town Council is keeping up the pressure for the Saxon Centre improvements. It seems to be painfully slow! However recent meetings with the chief executive of Bedford Borough reveal his commitment to help to resolve the situation with Sainsbury’s. Many things depend on the results of a condition survey of the surface area which forms the roof of the underground car
park. They are expected very soon. The disused toilet block needs urgent attention. It should be demolished and a thorough clean-up of the rubbish and cigarette ends around the car park area carried out. Occupation of the office block would help too! Many of the things that need improving will take time and money but others are easier and only need some thought. PLEASE DON’T DROP YOUR LITTER including
MEETINGS TAKING PLACE IN DECEMBER/JANUARY
PLANNING COMMITTEE ..................13 December at 6.30pm TOWN COUNCIL MEETING ..............13 December at 7.30pm PLANNING COMMITTEE......................10 January at 6.30pm TOWN COUNCIL MEETING..................10 January at 7.30pm COMMUNITY SAFETY FORUM............23 January at 6.30pm
All meetings held at Kempston Town Council and are open to the public
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH-ON Saxon Centre 6-7pm Tuesday, 6 December Kempston Concert Band will be playing
cigarette ends, especially around the seating areas. It is not nice for those who just want to have a rest! Meetings will continue with a hope that some action will soon follow.
An officer from the appropriate department will attend the next meeting of Kempston Town Council, (December 13th) to discuss the decision.
Following the Town Council’s resolution which was submitted to Bedford Borough Council and strong opposition from residents, the Council’s Executive had recommended that the digital model should not be introduced at Kempston library but that there should be a reduction of opening hours of 9.5 hours per week. At the Executive meeting Councillor Kay Burley, representing Kempston Town Council, drew attention to the resolution and asked that the possibility of using volunteers be ‘seriously considered’ in an attempt to maximise opening hours at the library.
Work has been undertaken to clean the memorial, paving and surrounding stones. Some of the paving slabs have been re-laid because large puddles were forming when it rained. All the moss has been removed and some repointing done. There will be further work required on the railings next year.
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6 — KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016
Community grows with new school PARENTS are being invited to find out more about a brand new school now named Wixams Tree Primary, which is opening in September 2017. The primary will be run by the Bedford College Academies Trust (BCAT) which has also been appointed by the Department for Education to manage the new Wixams Academy, a secondary opening to Year 7, 11-year-olds next autumn. The schools will be side by side in the new town. Wixams Tree Primary will complement the existing Lakeview Primary at the new and fast growing village/town. It will take Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 pupils from the start. Ian Pryce CBE Chair of BCAT: “We hope people will like the new name which has local connections and signifies how we are putting down the roots for a successful educational future. “Lakeview Primary is doing a great job in preparing local children for secondary school and they will continue to be welcome at the Wixams Academy alongside those from the Wixams Tree Primary. This is about supporting a super community and providing exceptional education from reception to the sixth form age groups.”
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Residents claim bills are ‘unexpected’
AS residents of another new build in the borough find they are an ‘unadopted’ estate and face extra charges we can reveal that more than half of those costs are management charges. Last month we wrote about how virtually none of the new estates built in Bedford Borough have been adopted by the council. This means that, while paying full council tax, they do not receive full council services and have to pay a management company for such things as road repair, lighting and park maintenance. Residents of New Cardington are just discovering that they now have to pay a service charge of up to £160 per year to BPHA. The total cost of the charges, delivered by Remus for BPHA, are £48,000 per year for the estate.
SERVICE CHARGE Of this amount some £25,000 are for admin and management costs, such as: management fees £18,648; accounting £2,500; risk assessment £1,440; bank charges £500; insurance £1,240. And the quality of service, according to some, is not that high. One resident said: “It can take ages to repair street lights and rubbish can be left in parking areas for weeks. We
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
were not warned of these charges, just suddenly got a bill before Christmas. It just doesn’t seem fair.” Sarah Ireland, Director Development & Sales at bpha, said: “The service charge for shared owners in Cardington relates to things like maintaining open space like grass cutting and hedges, play areas and administration services. “All owners are made aware of the charge when they purchase the property. “The management service charge covers areas of expenditure that not covered under the council tax, and if the development was adopted it could force council rates to become higher.” A Bedford Borough Council spokesman said: “The council cannot compel developers to have roads adopted; however, residents living on un-adopted or private roads are entitled to the full range of council services.” When we asked for further clarity on how residents accessed services not presently provided and what are extra services, we were told that: “Having already issued comments on this matter we are not willing to say anything further. You are welcome to enter an FOI if you feel you require detailed information regarding this issue.” A Freedom of Information request on this issue has been submitted.
24/7 watch on bad parking
TRAFFIC wardens are watching you – 24 hours a day, seven days a week. After someone complained in a letter that he was ticketed for unlawful parking at 3.30am, we decided to ask if that could be true. And sure enough it is. While most parking on the roads is free after 6pm in the evening, it is not allowed in some areas and any parking considered dangerous, such as on corners, is not allowed any time. So Bedford Borough Council traffic wardens work 24/7, catching anyone not properly parked or parking where they should not be. Cllr Alison Field Foster said: “This administration has increased the chargeable hours from 5 to 6 pm and in certain areas like Castle Mound, Bedford town centre, up to 10pm and has significantly increased parking charges at our public car parks over the past year or so Now there are parking wardens working 24/7. I had seen them wandering around the town centre at night and was very surprised. I haven’t seen any announcement or warning to the public but transparency is not a strength of the borough. A Bedford Borough Council spokesperson said: “On street parking remains free after 6pm but where restrictions remain in place after this time it is for safety and accessibility reasons.
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KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016 — 7
Hitting the net with support for cancer charity TOWNSFOLK in Kempston are getting behind the goal of a cancer calendar featuring naked footballers.
The 2017 daring diary was launched at Kempston Constitutional Club, off Bedford Road, on Friday November 18th. On the night nearly £5000 was raised.
“It was a super celebration with an auction of some great stuff like a Chelsea dug-out chair and signed shirt, hospitality tickets for Man City and Watford, as well as dinner dates with some of the single players,” said fund-raising coach Gary Ingerson, who is Chairman of Kempston Town FC, “Local companies have been incredibly generous by giving prizes for the auction and a raffle,
and sponsoring every month of the calendar. The photographer Emily Gray has given her time free of charge, White Hart Press are printing the copies, the stewardess of the Con Club is helping bring the launch event to life, and after the event local retailers will be selling the calendars.” The idea came about when teenage cancer survivor Shelbee Clarke suffered a relapse. She had bravely spoken up for the Teenage Cancer Trust and it has been decided to share any profits from the fund-raising between covering her costs for travelling to and from Birmingham for specialist treatment and www. teenagecancertrust. org Her brother, Tim Shelbee Clarke and Gary Ingerson. Clarke, is Captain of Kempston Town LOCAL BUSINESS SPONSORS Con Club FC and joined the Kempston Greycourt Florist naked line-up. Marika at MHD & Ivory “If Shelbee is Ebony Papillion Coffee House well enough we Beauty by Kelly L’erario Professional Hair Stylist hope she can be Bianca Summer hill Farm Shop involved in the Beauty of Bedford The Curvy Bridal Boutique photoshoot or Elegance by TLC Rinaldi’s Beauty Therapy by Francesca join us at the Beauty by Roxanne launch night,” added Gary. The cost of the calendar will be just £6.
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8 — KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016
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Bodybuilding champ aims to be at finals
FITNESS professional, 29-yearold, Mario Pascarella from Kempston, who has worked as a trainer at The Gym Group Bedford on London Road for 18 months. Mario was recently named British Champion of the UK Body building & Fitness Federation (UKBFF) under 80kg Inter mediate catagory. Mario spoke with Kempston Calling and said: “I started preparing for this show 16-20 weeks prior to the competition. I was up at the early hours of the morning to perform cardio at least six days per week. My main diet was higher protein and lower carbohydrate intake coming from chicken, lean steak, eggs, rice and vegetables. “I workout at various gyms around bedford as I like a change of different atmosphere from time to time. I’m passionate about bodybuilding because it creates self discipline and its a long journey, a bit like a marathon. I will push myself to the limit even more for next year in the UKBFF Mens Open class at the British finals in Nottingham.”
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KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016 — 9
Mindless vanadalism Town councillors are looking out for speeding motorists continues to blight College Street area
KEMPSTON Town Councillors Adrien Beardmore and James Valentine kicked off a planned series of A KEMPSTON street is being monitored by the Speedwatch sessions in police after various incidents of vandalism have Kempston in November by been reported. checking the speed of traffic The residents of College voluntary interviews and investi- on Bedford Road, by the Saxon Centre. Street, at the Spring Road end, gations continue to take place.” Both Councillors attend have suffered damage to their COURT ORDER Kempston’s Community Safety houses and cars in the last 18 In a separate issue the residents where concerns about months but no-one is sure who are also in disagreement with a Forum, speeding traffic are mentioned is responsible. local garage owner who is frequently. Even last month, one resi- complaining that neighbours are They will be holding further dent woke up to find a window hurting his business. sessions in 20mph and 30mph He has been ordered to remove areas of Kempston to monitor in her car smashed.
A Bedfordshire Police spokesman said: “We are aware of issues in College Street that you have mentioned; officers have pursued various lines of enquiry but unfortunately most of the incidents relating to criminal damage have not been witnessed. “We take all reports seriously, and would encourage anyone with any information to contact us via 101. “Officers have conducted
a ramp from his garage, at the top of College Street, and has put up a sign, saying it is the fault of neighbours and he will now be working until midnight. The ramp is still there but the council has been informed that it is going to be removed by the end of March. Cllr Anthony Boutall said: “This situation has frustrated me more than anything else and it seems the Borough Council are impotent in their actions.”
compliance with the speed limits. Cllr Valentine said: “Reaction from motorists was very good and most slowed down when they saw our kit, though it would be preferable if they didn’t need to! This stretch of road has seen some nasty accidents; the speed limit is in place for a good reason.” Cllr Beardmore added: “We
were pleased to find that of 125 cars that passed us during the 45 minute session only one was just over the limit. This voluntary Speedwatch activity is on Police advice as visible as possible, so we place a warning triangle approx 20 metres in advance of the Speed Indicator Device. The aim is to educate motorists and give them the opportunity to slow down.”
10 — KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016
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Charity benefit Kempston Mayor Cllr Carl Meader hosted a fund-raising event at the town’s well-known Blue Ginger restaurant on Monday November 7. Among the invited guests were several mayors from nearby towns. £404 was raised on the night and will go to the Mayor’s nominated charities for his mayorial year, the Road Victims Trust and Keech Hospice.
Shop worker gets award for tricking knifewielding robber
A WOMAN shop worker who tricked a knife-wielding robber into fleeing empty-handed has received a commendation from the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire. Mrs Tharaga Varatharasa rang the bell in Kempston News telling the masked robber, who was shouting and swearing at her, it was connected to the police station and that officers were on their way. The 14 year old robber, who was armed with a kitchen knife that had a 9 inch blade, went into the shop in Bedford Road on 17 February this year. He trapped terrified Mrs Varatharasa, who was alone in the shop, behind the counter. Judge Barbara Mensah said she asked him what he wanted and he said: “£20.” Quick-thinking Mrs Varatharasa rang the shop bell, telling the youth it was connected to the police station and that officers were on their way. It caused the robber, who is now 15, to flee. He and an accomplice, who had gone into the shop earlier, were arrested. The robber was sentenced to a Youth Rehabilitation Order and 18 months’ supervision. He also received a six month curfew. Praising her bravery, Judge Mensah said: “She showed great presence of mind and true coolness and courage.” In a ceremony at Luton Crown Court, Mrs Varatharasa received a certification of commendation from Charles Whitbread, the High Sheriff and a £300 reward. ––––––––––––––––
SPOOFED
THE annual Bonfire Night event at Kempston’s Half Moon public house lived up to its usual high standard on Saturday November 5. A large crowd gave generously to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal with £1167.25 being raised. Landlady, Nickie Mcglory would like to extend her thanks to all those residents and helpers who made this night such a success – again!
Firecracker of a night
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KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016 — 11
12 — KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016
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No Limits football team secure title THE Bedford and Kempston No Limits Football Team cruise to their first League 2 title. Following an impressive season during which the team racked up an amazing 98 points from 52 games the Bedford and Kempston No Limits Football Team successfully secured the top spot before the first kick off at the tournament earlier this month. No Limits is a three year Sport England funded project organised and delivered by Bedford Borough Council’s Sports Development Team which aims to create more sustainable opportunities for people with a disability to take part in sport and physical activity across Bedfordshire, as part of 44 projects across England. The team’s hard work and dedication throughout the season paid off and Team Captain Nicholas Bareford lifted the trophy amongst his high spirited teammates; coach Steve Savva; and match day manager Ryan Gale. From a small team of only four players the group has now grown into three teams playing across the three different ability divisions in the league. The champions will be defending their title next season in the Championship, while a new team enter the Premiership. –––––––––––––––––
More changes in the pipeline
WOOTTON Academy Trust who operate Wootton Upper School and Kimberley 16-19 STEM College, are planning talks with Sharnbrook Academy Federation (SAF) with a view to joining their Multi Academy Trust (MAT). SAF currently operates Sharnbrook Upper School, Lincroft Middle School in Oakley, (which will become Lincroft Secondary School from September 2017), Oakley Lower School (which will become Oakley Primary School from September 2017), Harrold Priory Middle School and Harrold Lower School (which will be combined to become Harrold Primary School from September 2017), Margaret Beaufort Middle School (which is expected to become Riseley C of E Primary School from September 2017 part of the St Alban’s diocese and outside of SAF). SAF has been selected to open the new Great Ouse Primary school, between Bedford and Biddenham. Wootton Academy Trust will be holding its Annual General Meeting on Tuesday February 7, 2017 at 7.00pm. This meeting will be part of the formal consultation process with parents/carers and all other stakeholders.
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KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016 — 13
Daubeney Academy Remembers
LIKE other schools and organisations across the country, on Friday 11th November, 2016, Daubeney Academy were proud to pay a large-group gesture of respect to all who have given their lives whilst engaged in warfare. At 11am the whole school fell silent
and the preparatory learning that had taken place during the week was reflected upon by all members of our community. In the Quad, at the heart of the school, Mr Randall, Mrs Muscroft, Mrs Willis together with School Councillors and a visiting bugler listened to a moving rendition of the Last Post. They were joined also by all of our students who had chosen to wear their cub, brownie, scout and
military cadet uniforms for the day. In classrooms, all of the students, teachers and teaching assistants rose as one to offer a silent acknowledgment of gratitude to members of our society who had put their lives on the line for us. In a busy school like Daubeney Academy there is often a noisy buzz of learning; when it is replaced by an intentional silence this can be very moving and Daubeney Academy are so proud
of the manner in which their collective respect was shown. On Tuesday 8th November, 2016 Rolland Haggerwood and a colleague from the Clapham branch of the British Royal Legion visited Daubeney Academy. There was a demonstration from the Standard Bearer and an explanation of how the monies raised from the sale of poppies is used to support military personnel and their families.
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14 — KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016
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OK just go and plant 5000 crocus corms!
MEMBERS of the Rotary Clubs of Kempston and Bedford De Parys spent Sunday 30th October planting 5000 crocus corms on the most northerly of the roundabouts on the newly opened Western Bypass, in an attempt to raise awareness and encourage support for Rotary International’s project, started some 30 years ago, to eliminate Poliomyelitis from the world.
The Rotarians were armed with various dibbers and other utensils for making holes in the rock hard earth left by the builders on the roundabout and working in teams the project was completed after the best part of six hours hard labour. Five thousand crocus corms seemed an awful lot when contemplated in the sober light of day at 9am on the Sunday and the full box of them did seem to go down very slowly at first, but Rotarians are made of stern stuff and battled on to the end successfully. The recent rain should help set the corms and we wait expectantly to see the purple harvest next spring. Poliomyelitis is an appalling infectious and sometimes fatal disease which has in its time crippled millions of children and young adults throughout the world. Locally, nationally and internationally Rotarians have been playing a part in making this condition history for over 30 years now and during this time polio has successfully been eliminated from 125 countries, now remaining in just two, Pakistan and Afghanistan.
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Whilst over these years the Rotarians have funded the cost of the vaccine, Rotary International has worked with the World Health Organisation and other agencies including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation which now matches the funding, to deliver the programme worldwide. The final push for the complete elimination of this wretched disease is always the most difficult part of the enterprise, but it can be done, it was after all done with the elimination of smallpox, and any funds raised by Purple4Polio will be matched by the Gates Foundation £2 for every £1 donated. You can find out more about this programme of polio eradication by contacting kempston rotary@gmail.com or post master@bedforddeparysrotary. co.uk and can donate directly by visiting the giving site at https://mydonate.bt.com/events /kempstonrotaryclubcrocusappeal or alternatively just ‘google’ Kempston Rotary Club.
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KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016 — 15
Committee hears of Roman Bedford’s ‘new history’
BEDFORD Borough Council’s Environment and Sustainable Communities Committee meeting on the 17th November was entirely devoted to receiving a presentation on the Roman dig on Manton Lane.
The presentation was jointly delivered by Stephen Cockings and Elizabeth Sayer, both part of the Bedford Roman Villa Project team. The committee was presented with the story of the excavations as well as a possible scenario as to the role of the site in Roman Britain. Part of this story is developing evidence that Bedford in the later Roman Empire may have been the site of a major administrative centre managing wheat production in the Ouse Valley. Described as the ‘bread basket’ of Roman Britain, what may have been a large imperial estate could have been responsible for supplying the Roman army defending the frontiers of both Hadrian’s Wall and the Rhine.
Cllr Roger Rigby, who chaired this meeting, said: “In all my years a councillor it is probably the first time a formal committee meeting has been devoted to one subject and it shows the value councillors and the council place on the importance of the discovery. “Mr Cockings presented an extraordinary possibility of Kempston in the late third and early fourth century being an important port on the river for the movement of grain around Roman Britain and the Rhine. Other excavations in the area are developing a new theory that instead of Bedford having little relevance at this time, it actually played an important part in the north western provinces of the late Roman Empire. “If these theories can be fully developed and proved, the value to Bedford of this new history through tourism and education will be very valuable.”
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16 — KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016
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KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016 — 17
Royal Anglians remember the fallen On Sunday November 20, 2016, members of the Royal Anglian Regiment and former service personel gathered at Kempston Barracks for their annual service and wreath laying. This event usually gathers a large crowd of local
residents to support our armed forces – this year was no exception. The service was conducted by the Rev. Stephen Smith. The band of the 7th Rifles provided the stirring music for the parade.
18 — KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016
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The Beast swoops in from up north to give Bedfordshire ‘top cover’
BEDFORDSHIRE’S Police and Crime Commissioner Kathryn Holloway joins the Force’s eye in the sky – the National Police Air Service – on a tour of duty. When the public look up and see the distinctive royal blue and yellow bodywork of a police helicopter hovering over Bedfordshire they almost certainly assume it is the property of the Force and piloted and crewed by its own police team. In fact, air cover for policing, here and elsewhere is provided at national level by the National Police Air Service (NPAS) from bases from Exeter to Newcastle, with Bedfordshire’s so-called ‘top cover’ launched from a discreet base in North Northamptonshire. All requests are fielded by West Yorkshire Force Control but the team are constantly listening for potential call-outs on the Talk Group radio system and are often good to go when the formal notification is received. The service is
jointly funded by forces across the country with a separate charge raised with the force concerned for each arrival on scene, irrespective of how long the aircraft is needed for. Base Manager Tom Coyne explained: “We’ve been deployed to recent events in Bedford, Luton and across the county from firearms incidents to looking for
missing persons using our thermal imaging equipment.” The £5m helicopter the crew call ‘The Beast’, with camera and mapping equipment, can fly for 1 hour 45 minutes continuously by day and 15 minutes less at night, as Civil Aviation Authority regulations require sufficient fuel is carried to divert to a nearby airport after dark. It covers an area 50
miles from base in all directions. Weight is so finely calibrated, given the full load of fuel from its own 40,000 gallon supply on base, that I had to weighed before being cleared to board and certainly hope I am the lightest Police and Crime Commissioner they are asked to transport. Even a bird strike can affect the aircraft and the crew scan constantly for potential threats. Drones have not yet affected this team but lasers, used from the ground, have been used to target the pilot and crew in the past creating obvious risks. Kathryn Holloway said: “I joined them on a perfect winter’s day but with the helicopter required to make constant adjustments in high winds as we tracked a nuisance motorcyclist for Leicester police and checked out a large fire in woodland to make sure it was part of forest control. Take it from me, it’s the only way to fly!”
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KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016 — 19
Fluoride in town’s water issue rumbles on by Anna Bragga
IT’S TWO months since Mayor Dave Hodgson publicly declared his intention of keeping Bedford fluoride-free, but with the existing contract still in place, campaigners are keeping up the pressure with the release of a new documentary: Fluoridegate Bedford and a bold swipe at government toolkits.
Members of Fluoride Free Bedford are worried that Public Health England (PHE) could force the council to bow to the profluoridation policy of central government. Group spokesperson, Cynthia Bagchi, said: “The Council’s Chief Executive is due to meet representatives of PHE who I understand manages the fluoridation contract – but legally, the Council is responsible. If the Council allows PHE to take the lead and only takes their advice, it’s like putting a fox in charge of a hen house. The Dental Department of PHE is only sponsoring a policy for the government. If the Council allows PHE to dominate the proceedings, they will try to force the Council to put fluoride back in the water.” The group’s anxieties are well founded, since similar promises were made by the Mayor in 2011 when councillors voted to work towards ending fluoridation. No action was taken and the fluoride contract remained in place. “Unless we stop the contract, fluoride can be put back in the water without citizens’ knowledge,” she added. “They can make the decision behind our backs. The
Tool theft warning to van drivers
BEDFORDSHIRE Police’s Crime Reduction Officer, Lesley Johnson has issued a warning to all commercial vehicle owners to increase the levels of security of their vehicles. This follows a huge increase in the number of tool thefts from vehicles last month. In most instances tool boxes were stolen from vans overnight. The best advice is to remove the tools if practicable and to make sure the vehicles are alarmed.
CEO needs to get on with the process of telling the PHE what they require, what they have to do – write to Jeremy Hunt. They have to start writing letters.” On December 7th Bagchi is planning to stand up in a Full Council meeting and ask for the second time: “what has the Council done to end the contract?” At the last Full Council meeting in October, the Mayor dodged her question saying, “all you need to know is that it’s not going back in the water.” By turning their attention to Public Health England’s water fluoridation toolkits (which can be downloaded from the internet), the group hopes to cut a chink in the head of the hydra, and erase the
misinformation being distributed to councillors in Bedford and elsewhere. In a strongly worded four-page letter to PHE Chief Executive, Duncan Selbie, the group express their alarm demanding “immediate rectification” of the contents.
“It’s so biased in favour of water fluoridation – and fluoride generally,” observed Cynthia Bagchi. “The more the better is the assumption which is absolutely disregarding the science. Even small amounts of fluoride are toxic. We have asked them to correct the information so that the Council receives responsible and unbiased information.” Councillors are given two
BIASED
toolkits compiled by the Dental Department of Public Health England informing them that fluoridated water and fluoridated milk prevent tooth decay. The most recent one, published in March 2016: Improved Oral Health: a community water fluoridation toolkit for local authorities, anticipates public opposition. It says: “An authority considering fluoridation will be met with claims that it doesn’t work and that it causes harm. Both statements are untrue”. The Dental Department needs to re-write it, concedes Bagchi. “They’ve been neglectful and in doing so, are giving PHE a bad naexisting scheme at Full Council meetings.
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20 — KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016
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View from
In Focus with
Bishop Richard
Dave
by Rt Revd Richard Atkinson Bishop of Bedford
COME AND WORSHIP
WHAT is your favourite Christmas Carol? ‘Away in a Manger’? ‘Hark the Herald Angels Sing’? ‘While shepherds watched their flocks by night’? Or another of the well-loved carols that will be sung this Christmas? Carols, some of which have their origins back in medieval times and the singing of Christmas songs within the community, rather than within Church. Last Christmas, according to the Classic FM poll, ‘Silent Night’ was our favourite carol. Written in 1818 by Joseph Mohr and set to music by his friend Franz Gruber, it only came into being because mice had eaten through the bellows of the organ at St Nicholas church in their small Austrian town of Oberndorf near Salzburg and they couldn’t play the traditional Christmas music. Instead this new carol was played on the guitar and has been much loved since. My favourite carol is ‘In the Bleak Midwinter’, Christina Rossetti’s evocative verse, that was set to music by Gustav Holst. In particular, the final verse reminds us that Christmas is not just about our re-telling of the Christmas events, nor the praise of God, but also our response to the disclosure of God’s love for us in Jesus. What can I give him, Poor as I am? If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb; If I were a wise man, I would do my part; Yet what I can, I give him - Give my heart. Last Christmas two and a half million people attended church services, and that was just the Church of England! Many came to traditional Christmas Services, including Midnight Mass and Nine Lessons and Carols. For others it was a crib service or more contemporary Christmas worship. All of them, across the different Christian traditions, times to pause amidst the commercialism of this season and to focus on the love of God present with us in the baby Jesus. This Christmas your local church once again offers you a warm welcome and invitation to sing carols and to hear the Christmas narrative. In the words of another much loved carol, ‘Angels from the Realms of Glory’: Come and worship, Come and worship; Worship Christ, the new-born King.
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by Dave Hodgson Mayor of Bedford
GOING PUBLIC ON SECRET HEALTH PLANS
LAST month, I took the decision that Bedford Borough Council would publish the first stage report of the NHS-led Bedfordshire and MK ‘Sustainability and Transformation Plan’ (STP). Across the country, current work on these plans for the future of local healthcare is being kept secret at the insistence of NHS England. Here in Bedford Borough, however, public anxiety about the future of our hospital is already too high, without secret plans being kept from patients and the community at large. Shortly after our publication, a national study revealed that STPs are secretly planning large-scale hospital cuts and closures. This has caused great speculation elsewhere but not here, where our publication of the report had already shown that it has not got as far as proposals for particular services yet. While local concerns have not been heightened unnecessarily, they are as grave as ever due to bitter experience. Two recent NHS-led reviews having proposed major downgrades for Bedford Hospital, including cuts or the closure of key services such as maternity, paediatrics or A&E. This one must not go the same way. The signs to date have not been promising. The public has been frozen out of the process so far as have MPs, while Councils have largely been sidelined. This is in spite of being the providers of social care, which must be central to any sustainable solution for healthcare. The STP has also pledged to ‘build upon’ the previous Healthcare Review, which notoriously proposed closure of Bedford’s maternity unit. The theory of bringing partners together to plan for the future of health and social care is a good one. Now it needs to be put in practice, and the veil of secrecy removed in order that we can work together on what is undoubtedly a huge challenge.
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In Focus with
Fuller Richard Fuller MP for Bedford & Kempston
STEEPED IN HISTORY
HAVE you and your family ever visited the Houses of Parliament? After all, the buildings at Parliament are not only beautiful and interesting in their architecture and design, but they are also home to many important events in our country’s history. For some months I have been asking people across our town whether they had been to Parliament for a tour. Too frequently I have heard “No, can we?” as a response, or from some in their later years, “Last time was when I went on a school trip.” This is a great shame because there is much to see and learn at Parliament. Parliament was where Charles I and Thomas More both faced their trials and were condemned to death. Turn the corner and you are where the only Prime Minister to be assassinated, Spencer Perceval, met his assailant, John Bellingham. By the way, his direct descendent, Henry Bellingham is now a Member of Parliament! Go further towards Central Lobby and you get a sense of the confidence of the Victorians in choosing the winning design and their desire to make a confident statement about our country’s history and its law making. Have I interested you yet? I hope so because Parliament is to close for substantial renovations in a few years’ time and for a number of years thereafter, there will be no access to the buildings. That is why, in my Annual Report this year, I let people know that I would be hosting tours next year that would be open to any and all constituents to attend and bring their families and friends. These tours will be dotted through the year on Monday mornings and on Wednesday evenings. I hope you will consider coming for a visit to see an impressive demonstration of our democracy and I will try to convey why I believe so passionately in our democracy. Let me know if you are interested by emailing me at richard.fuller.mp@parliament.uk and I will send you more details. In the meanwhile, a Merry Christmas to you and the very best for the New Year.
KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016 — 21
Monthly update from the Police and Crime Commissioner by Kathryn Holloway
RELEVANT DEBATE
EVENTS this autumn have shown just how great a challenge Bedfordshire Police face. There have been arrests under Counter Terror laws in Luton. The Force fielded 100 officers and Special Constables to respond to disorder at Bedford Prison to secure the perimeter and reassure residents – going door-to-door to provide updates and advice, while the prison authorities brought the incident under control. Cross-over crime with London was highlighted in an operation by Metropolitan Police officers in Leagrave, seizing guns and ammunition. In one tragic, and thankfully extremely rare, case a 24-yearold man lost his life when a firearms officer used his weapon in an incident which is now being investigated by the police watchdog, the Independent Police Complaints Commission, as is a standard procedure in such circumstances. This was the most distressing outcome for absolutely every party involved and, as a police force cannot comment during such an investigation, no inference whatever should be taken from this. The timing of this operational policing demand on the Force could not be more relevant to a debate which is currently being held within the Home Office. The Government is in the process of determining Bedfordshire’s future slice of the funding cake while drawing up a new National Funding Formula for all 43 police forces in England and Wales. I am arguing that Bedfordshire’s crime challenges need to be considered urgently as the force is currently the second lowest funded in the country. This argument goes beyond politics; I have met with the Policing Minister Brandon Lewis alongside all six constituency MPs from across the county, irrespective of party, with our Chief Constable, Jon Boutcher. I have met him alone and with the Chief Finance Officer of our Force and the Acting ACC Jaqueline Sebire who, as a former Borough Commander in London, speaks with authority of the similarities between the policing demand here but the discrepancy in the resources which are available locally. Ultimately the formula will be decided above all our pay grades but you should be absolutely certain that all that could be being done is being done to put Bedfordshire’s case.
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Dashing around London in Monopoly challenge GIRLGUIDING Bedfordshire celebrated their centenary with a reality Monopoly Challenge – the game was played on the biggest board of them all – London. To mark the 100 year anniversary of the Girlguiding Senior Section young women from across Bedfordshire took part in a dash around London to see who could be the team to win on the biggest Monopoly Board of them all. Devised by Moira Ledbetter, a Brownie Leader from Bedford, the game saw over 100 girls and young women from across the region take part in the event which was held in October. The teams were given seven hours to complete their mission of reaching all the Monopoly stops across the capital, taking photos of
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Beds model launches a charity calendar in aid of UK Veterans
LUNA, a commercial and glamour model from Bedford has launched her first calendar with proceeds going to ex-servicemen and women.
Luna, who has been published in Nuts, Bizarre and the Daily Star has put her talents to good use in the production of a 2017 calendar with exclusive unseen images. The calendar features an exclusive set from Birmingham based photographer Paul Cotterill. Five pounds from every calendar sold will be donated to veterans in the UK who have fought in any battles on behalf of the armed forces. Luna says ‘ex-servicemen and women can suffer physical disabilities, mental health issues, post-traumatic stress disorder and homelessness. They fought and dedicated their lives to keep us safe. The proceeds from the calendar will go towards the services that help these heroes to re-adapt to life outside of the forces. It is unimaginable what some of these we will be helping have been through.’ The calendars are the result of a collaboration with The Calendar Company, a design and print agency who supply some of the UK’s biggest charities and businesses with professional calendars.
Luna’s calendar is available to buy on her website www.lunathemodel.com/2017lunacalendar You may also recognise Luna from her work in 2014 representing Bedfordshire at the Crown and Glory beauty pageant. The fundraising pageant raised money for The Dean Puplett Appeal fighting Neuroblastoma Cancer.
KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016 — 23
24 — KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016
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KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016 — 25
out & about Top of The Pops 1930s/40s The Place Theatre Thurs 8 Dec 8pm
TOTP didn’t exist in the 40s so Swing’s The Thing have created their own version. Vocalists Katherine Mclean and Nigel Adair will perform a selection of seasonal big band vocals and help count down the Top 10. This is nonstop vintage swing music from some of the most popular bands of the time.
Jack Frost A magical, wintery production brings Jack Frost to life through puppetry, live music and enchanting storytelling. Meet our mischievous sprite as he takes us on a snowy adventure but wrap up warm or you’ll catch him nipping at your fingers and toes! A story of
4pm Monday 19 Dec
friendship and bravery to warm our hearts this winter. A playful production perfect for ages 3+. This will be a ‘relaxed’ performance with house lights on and lower sound levels. Everyone is welcome and the show will be particularly suitable for children on the autistic spectrum.
Christmas Show 1pm & 4pmTues 20, 1pm & 4pm Wed 21 December
Meet a snowman who lives in the fridge, try and spot some naughty elves, hear the tale of the first Christmas Tree, play hunt the brussel sprout and endure the world’s worst Christmas jumper. The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmassness is an over-stuffed stocking of seasonal surprises crammed with puppets, songs, storytelling and comedy, and overflowing with crazy characters.
Castle Comedy Bedford
Castle Comedy Bedford is pulling out all the stops to make this Christmas the best one ever! They are holding two Christmas Party Specials on Thursday the 15th and Friday the 16th of December at The Gordon Arms Ent Shed. The shows will be the ultimate Christmas comedy night out, perfect for friends and colleagues to celebrate Christmas together! Headlining the show is a UK comedy circuit legend and one of the most awe inspiring comedians you’ll ever see… Steve Day. Steve describes himself as Britain’s only deaf comedian, if there are any others he hasn’t heard! Steve is a truly unique comedian – warm, witty and engaging whilst dealing with the dilemmas of being a deaf man in a hearing world. His stories of multiple children, wearing a suit and the problems caused by not knowing
how words are pronounced will have audiences in raptures. A familiar voice on Radio 4, Steve has appeared many times on ‘You and Yours’ and been a token man on Woman’s Hour! Carly Smallman sings funny songs! Her unique blend of outrageous impropriety and adorable sincerity has established her as a firm favourite in London clubs and beyond. She has written for BBC Comedy Online and has appeared on several TV and Radio shows including: The Rob Brydon Show. ‘Ebullient… funny, fresh and endlessly creative’ – Time Out The show will also feature President Obonjo, the UK’s only comedy dictator. He demand laughs and he certainly gets them! Castle Comedy regular, Paul Revill will host the night. If you are organizing a large group of friends or work event there are party packages available. Call the ticket hotline on 07736 060541 or visit www.castlecomedy.co.uk
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26 — KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016
The West End in Concert
The West End In Concert was formed in 2012 by Creative Director and Musical Theatre actor Andrew Simeon. He had a vision of creating a magical evening of entertainment with four of the best singers/actors directly from The West End, and bringing it home to the local communities that supported and nurtured them during their pursuit of following their dreams to become professional musical theatre performers. Andrew who now lives in Bedford, hails from Pontardawe, a village just outside of Swansea in South Wales. This is where Andrew began his early training with dance, singing and acting lessons. He then went onto study Performing Arts at Gorseinon College as well as performing in the local Amateur Dramatic productions whenever possible. After this Andrew followed his dream to London, to Bird College in Sidcup, one of the top Performing Arts Colleges in the country where he trained in Dance, Drama and Voice solidly for three years. Since
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
graduating Andrew has performed in many Musicals in the West End and on Tour around the UK; South Pacific, All That Jazz, Snow White (with Paul O’grady), Legally Blonde and We Will Rock You to name a few. He also performed as a vocalist and dancer aboard P&O’s MV Aurora, which took him to all continents on the globe and also on a round the world voyage. After this Andrew made his way to Germany to fulfil a childhood dream, to perform in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Starlight Express. It was in 2010 that he joined the West End production of We Will Rock You, this show had already played a big part of his life whilst touring the UK with it, but he set up camp at The Dominion Theatre and enjoyed its run until its final performance on the 31st May 2014. The West End In Concert is in its 12th year and performs a variety of different shows as well as having Christmas/West End themed production which is going on this December all across the country. Andrew may have originally hailed from South Wales, but has been living in Bedford for the past eleven
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
years, and apart from the Welsh engagements, he very much looks forward to bringing his productions back to his ‘other’ home in Bedford. The Place Theatre offers something that most of the other venues don’t, and that’s a beautiful intimacy. Its a wonderful venue and all his performers love playing it due to closeness of the audience and the way that you can feel that they are really with you during the performances. Stars from the West End present a magical evening of entertainment featuring hits from the musicals and the best of Christmas song. The talented cast have starred in many West End productions and national tours including Les Miserables, We Will Rock You, South Pacific, Singing in the Rain, Starlight Express, Phantom Of The Opera, Godspell, Joseph and Cats... to name but a few! “This wonderful concert guarantees to bring you joy and fill you with Christmas cheer” (South Wales Evening Post) The show will be running at The Place Theatre, Bedford on Friday the 9th December at 7:30pm (SOLD OUT) and Saturday the 10th December at 2:30pm and 7:30pm alternatively it is also appearing at The Mumford Theatre, Cambridge on Sunday 11th December at 2:30pm and 7:30pm. www.thewestendinconcert.com
Danesborough Chorus Christmas Concert
Sprinkle some sparkle into your Christmas season by joining us at the Danesborough Chorus Christmas Concert to be held on Saturday, 10th December, at 7.30pm in St Mary’s Church, Woburn. We’ll be singing a superb selection of festive favourites with carols old and new, and there’ll be Christmas readings and interval refreshments. The choir will be accompanied by John Witchell on piano and organ. To help you forget the shopping and the stress, we’re putting fun, fizz and flavour into our musical celebrations this year says musical director Ian Smith. Combining traditional favourites with a variety of new carols, our Christmas concert will provide musical magic, and there’ll be plenty of audience participation! The pre-Christmas rush can be hectic for everyone, but music is the perfect antidote. So why not come carolling with the Danesborough Chorus at Woburn Church to enjoy a special start to your Christmas celebrations? Tickets price £10 and £8 for adults, £5 for under-18s, all unreserved, are available Tel: 01525 376760.
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A Christmas Carol Bedford Central Library 2-3.30pm, 3rd December
Community theatre group Librarian Theatre returns to Bedford Central Library this winter with a new adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic story A Christmas Carol; using puppetry and audience interaction to bring the timeless tale to life. The production re-imagines
the character of Ebenezer Scrooge, who is visited by ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come, as a woman, played by Sarah Ratheram. Librarian Theatre was founded by friends Kelly Eva-May AND Tom Cuthbertson with the aim of supporting public libraries across the country. The non-for-profit organisation works to deliver accessible, affordable, professional theatre to local communities.
OPUS 18 CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Bedford Gallery Quire
Saturday 10th December 2.30pm Priory Methodist Church Newnham Avenue, Bedford
We are a friendly group of singers and instrumentalists that together keep some of Bedford’s musical heritage alive by performing church and social music from the West Gallery period. This is three and four part harmony from around 1700 to 1850. We rehearse fortnightly on Thursdays in Bedford and are always welcoming to potential new members. In particular we would very much like to hear from string, woodwind or brass players. Your own instrument might be played, but we also own several period instruments that you might find to be an interesting challenge. A chat with our Musical Director would quickly establish whether you think this might be for you. Have a look at our website and give us a call. www.bedfordgalleryquire.org.uk Ken Baddley – 01234 310018
THE
con club
KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016 — 27
Guest musicians
Sound Appeal Handbells Raffle
Proceeds from the concert to: Carers in Bedfordshire and a defibrillator for St John’s Special School
Tickets £6, Children under 14 £3 includes refreshments
Contact: Evelyn Sutherland on 07974 742662 evesutherlandmusic@hotmail.co.uk
Visit Opus 18 at: www.opus18communitychoir.org.uk
GREAT 01234 ENTERTAINMENT EVERY WEEK 851120 KEMPSTON
ADULTS’ SONIK WAVE We now have CHRISTMAS PARTY DISCO from 1.30pm prebook SKY SPORTS and DANIELLE and Saturday December 17th CHRISTMAS DAY the VEGAS ROCK OUT WITH THE RACING UK 12 noon – till 2pm Saturday 10th GOODIES + on ‘SUPER SUNDAY’ BOXING DAY NICK ALEXANDER Sunday 18th December we have Sunday 11th December CHILDREN’S DISCO 50p OFF a pint of BIG MONEY CHRISTMAS PARTY 12pm till 5pm FOSTERS & SMOOTH Saturday 3rd December As seen on Italian TV The Voice the amazing
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NEW YEAR’S EVE
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CHECK FOR DETAILS www.facebook.com/conclub.kempston
28 — KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
DECEMBER IN KEMPSTON LIBRARY
REGULAR WEEKLY EVENTS: Mondays 2:15pm Pre-School Story Time Mondays 3:30-5:30pm Lego Club Tuesdays 11am Rhyme Time Tuesdays 2pm Wiggles and Jiggles Baby Group Tuesdays 3:30pm Homework Centre Wednesdays 2:30pm Family Colouring Club Thursdays 11am Wiggles and Jiggles Baby Group Thursdays 2pm Knit and Natter Thursdays 3:30pm Homework Centre Fridays 3:30-5:30pm Lego Club Saturdays 10:30am – 3:30pm Saturday Kids Club
Tuesday 20th December, 11:30-4:30pm Pasta Christmas Tree Making. Wednesday 21st December, 2-5pm Christmas Colouring Club Thursday 22nd December, 11am-3:30pm Christmas Hama Bead Decorations Thursday 22nd December, 11am Wiggles and Jiggles Christmas Special Friday 23rd December, 2-5:30pm Snowflake Mobile Making Friday 23rd December, 3:30-5:30pm Christmas Lego Club Special. Come and make something Christmassy out of Lego. Saturday 24th December, 10am-12:30pm Doyle Angel Making Wednesday 28th December, 2-5:30pm Bubble Wrap Reptile Making Thursday 29th December, 10-4:30pm Make a pair of Party Glasses. Thursday 29th December, 11am Wiggles and Jiggles (under fives). Friday 30th December, 2-530pm Bird Collaging Saturday 31st December, 10-3:30pm SPECIAL EVENTS 2017 Calendar Making Friday 2nd December, 4pm Adult Creative Writing Group. Tuesday 3rd January, 11am Rhyme Time (under fives). Monday 5th December, 4:30pm Chatterbooks Reading Group for 8-12 year olds. Tuesday 3rd January, 11:30am-4:30pm Recycled Monster Making! Wednesday 7th December, 2:30pm Hama Bead Decorations. Sessions for basic computer help. Need help with your tablet? Wednesday 14th December, 2:30pm Book a one to one session now! Christmas Decorations. Housebound Library Link and Mobile Library Friday 16th December, 2:30-5:30pm services also available. Christmas Lego Club Special New Rebranded Homework Centre for Middle Saturday 17th December, 10-3:30pm and Upper School students, every Tuesday and Saturday Kids Club Christmas Spinner Making. Thursday term time, 3:30-5:30pm. Monday 19th December, 10-4:30pm Download the Bedfordshire Library App from the Folding Santa/Snowman Christmas Cards Apple and Play Store now! Monday 19th December, 2:15pm For further details on all the Library events and Christmas Storytime (under fives). services, visit the virtual library via Monday 19th December, 3:30-5:30pm www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries Christmas Lego Club Special. Come and make Thank you to everyone for your support something Christmassy out of Lego. throughout 2016. We look forward to seeing you all in 2017. Tuesday 20th December, 11am Rhyme Time Christmas Special (under fives). Have a Happy Christmas
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KEMPSTON AND DISTRICT MODEL RAILWAY SOCIETY
Every Monday 7.30 to 10.00 At the Church of the Transfiguration rear church hall New members welcome For further details contact Brian Woodcock on 07795251988 or brianwoodcock@btinternet.com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ALL SAINTS PARISH CHURCH KEMPSTON
FULL AFTERNOON TEA & A GUIDED TOUR
of this historic church to visiting groups of 10 or above at a cost per head of £7.95. Contacts are Janet Fardell on 01234 855158 email:martinandjanet1@btinternet.com or Frances Leonard on 01234 852480 email: francesmleonard@gmail.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
KEMPSTON SENIOR CITIZENS’ CLUB DANCING, WHIST, BINGO Meets Wednesday 10am-12noon Friday 10am-4.00pm
at the CENTENARY HALL, behind Kempston Town Hall, Bedford Road For further information telephone:
01234 857011
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JIMMY CAUTY’S CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED
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AFTERMATH DISLOCATION PRINCIPLE #ADPRIOTTOUR will arrive at the Panacea Museum on the 13th of December.
The ADP is a monumental postapocalyptic landscape in miniature. A dystopian model village set somewhere in a mythical Bedfordshire where only the police remain in an otherwise deserted, wrecked and dislocated land. All in 1:87 scale, housed in three immense shipping containers, and viewed through observation ports.
Bringing the ADP over the high walls of the Panacea Museum Campus is a major undertaking and the museum want to give as many people as possible from the surrounding area the chance to see this unique work. There is no charge to come into the museum and it will be open every day while ADP is on site
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EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– FOR THE FRIENDS OF BEDFORD HOSPITAL
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Saturday 17th December at 7.30pm Ouse Valley Singers, Kempston Musical Society and singers from Bedford Hospital St. Peter’s Church, De Parys Avenue, Bedford Tickets are £8 for adults, £6 for students and over-60’s and £3 for children and include a mince pie and a hot or cold drink. For tickets or further information, please contact Felicity on 01234 359716 email: djfscott@yahoo.co.uk or Mike on 07946 589234 email: MikeThrossell@aol.com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON HAMMERS
HAMMERS CHOIR CONCERT Sunday 11 December Tickets £2.50 from Club
CHRISTMAS BINGO Thursday 15th December Tickets £2 from Club
NEW YEARS EVE THE VIPeas
Tickets £15 from Club ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
CHRISTMAS FAYRE Saturday 3rd Dec from 1pm Christ the King Church Hall, Harrowden Road, Bedford Entry 50p - children free Raffle (1st prize £200), tombola, bottle stall, Christmas crafts, refreshments, and lots more –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON EAST METHODIST CHURCH
CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT
Saturday 10th December at 7.30pm Kempston Musical Society and guests from Goldington Green Academy School Choir present a programme of festive music in a Christmas Carol Concert Tickets - £7.50 available on the door. For further information please call Janet 01234 781010. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORD RSPB LOCAL GROUP meet at ARA club Manton Lane Bedford MK41 7PF. Thursday 15th December Mark Thomas presents
‘The Full Monty’
RSPB’s Wildlife Crime officer talks about the conservation efforts for our Montagu’s Harriers. Suitable for Experts and Novices, RSPB membership not essential. Entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 annual group membership £5 For more info: www.rspb.org.uk/ groups/bedford ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
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WORLD SHIP SOCIETY
BEDFORD BRANCH Meetings held Kempston Constitution Club 196A Bedford Road, Kempston 3rd WEDNESDAY in the month 19:30 for 20:00 start
21 December 2016 Alan Pepper giving a presentation “Xmas Miscellany” Branch Secretary, Dave Menzies Telephone: 01234 352014 e-mail: dave.menzies@tiscali.co.uk
ADDISON CENTRE KEMPSTON FUND RAISING
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2-4.30pm THURSDAY 15th DEC £2.50 (incl cuppa) Tel: 01234 851877 or 01234 340997 DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT THIS NEW YEARS EVE ADDISON CENTRE, KEMPSTON 2.00–5.00pm TICKETS £5.00 (incl refreshments) Raffle & Licensed Bar For tickets ring 01234 851877 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ALL SAINTS NATTER CLUB Please join us for our
SOCIAL DANCE
CHRISTMAS NATTER CLUB
Christmas carols, sherry and mince pies Thursday December15, 2-5pm Church Hall Kempston Entry £1 including teas, coffees & cakes. Raffle tickets £1 Further information Vikki Clarke 01234 843669 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2nd December 2016 BEDFORD ART SOCIETY 7.15 for 7.30 start, at Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford, MK41 8EB
will demonstrate in watercolour One of the country’s leading portrait painters, she is constantly exploring the way in which watercolour can be used to produce light and vitality in her work. (This is a change to the published programme) Free for members, £5 for visitors Contact Jean Paterson 01234 307210 or www.bedsartsociety.co.uk –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORD LOCAL GROUP OF THE WILDLIFE TRUST Wednesday 14th December 2016 Meeting 7.30pm
Glynis Barnes-Mellish
‘Over the Sea to Skye’
an illustrated talk by Barrie Mason Priory Methodist Church Hall, Newnham Ave, Bedford MK41 9QJ Plenty parking available All welcome, no charge but voluntary contributions are appreciated Further details available under Events on www.wildlifebcn.org or at 01234 266057
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30 — KEMPSTON CALLING DECEMBER 2016
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Christmas Services We would like to invite you to come and share the love, joy and peace of the season at our special Christmas services. Everyone is very welcome.
PARISH CHURCH OF ALL SAINTS
PARISH CHURCH OF THE TRANSFIGURATION
KEMPSTON
KEMPSTON
Off Cemetery Road – the church by the river
Bedford Road across from Addison Howard Park
Christingle Service
Christingle Service
Sunday 11 December 4.00pm
Sunday 11 December 4.00pm
Joint service at Church of the Transfiguration Kempston
A candlelit celebration for children which raises money for The Children’s Society
Nine Lessons and Carols Sunday 18 December 4.00pm
Christmas Eve
Hear the story of Christ’s birth through Bible readings, and sing well-known Christmas Carols
Nativity with carols
Christmas Eve Nativity Service Saturday 24 December 4.00pm A family service in which children take part in the nativity story
Christmas Eve Midnight Mass Saturday 24 December 11.30pm
Saturday 24 December 4.00pm Children can join in the nativity story
Christmas Eve Midnight Mass Saturday 24 December 11.00pm Celebrate the true meaning of Christmas
Christmas Day
Begin your Christmas Day celebrations full of joy and fellowship
Sunday 25 December 10.00am
Christmas Day
A Family Communion Service with carols
Sunday 25 December 9.00am Family Communion Joint service at St James, Biddenham
www.allsaintskempston.com
Contact: Rev’d Lydia Humphreys 01234 854886 Rev’d Victoria Bryson 01234 856640
KEMPSTON CALLING is an independent monthly magazine with no affiliation to any other organisation. Š 2016 Rosetta Publishing Ltd, 30 Radwell Road, Milton Ernest MK44 1SH. Tel: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952. Printed by: Mortons Print Limited, Newspaper House, Morton Way, Boston Road, Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 6JR