JULY 2018
PRICELESS
VOTED NUMBER ONE FOR LO C A L NEWS
INSIDE: OUT AND ABOUT n SPORT n AROUND YOUR CLUBS n LOCAL NEWS AND PHOTOGRAPHS
2 — KEMPSTON CALLING
JULY 2018
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
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
KNOW YOUR COUNCILLOR Kempston North Adrien Beardmore 52 Foster Road, Kempston MK42 8BU adybeard@ntlworld.com 853803 Sue Oliver 4 Loveridge Avenue, Kempston MK42 8SD sue.oliver@bedford.gov.uk 303029
Kempston Charities
Kempston Central and East Kay Burley 7 Westdale Walk, Kempston MK42 8NX gordoncolling@btinternet.com 843805 David Clarke 86A Bedford Road, Kempston MK42 8BB daleysclub@outlook.com 851143
Kempston South Carl Meader 39 Highfield Road, Kempston MK42 7JH carl.meader@bedford.gov.uk 857621
Richard Hyde 14 The Links, Kempston, MK42 7LA Hydeaway14@googlemail.com 300848 / 07986 225389
Peter Tansey-Dwyer 106 Hilton Close, Kempston, MK42 7FT petertanseydwyer@yahoo.co.uk 07597 717699
Fiorentino Manocchio 32 Hartwell Drive, Kempston MK42 8UY fiore.manocchio@gmail.com 07818 426266
Kempston West Lindsay Fensome 7 Kingston Close, Kempston, MK42 8WA lfensome071@virginmedia.com 07857 005384 Will Hunt 5 Vyne Close, Kempston MK42 8RH willhunt@ntlworld.com 852072 / 07787 742887
Mohammed Masud 46 Henderson Way, Kempston MK42 8NP cllrmasud@bedford.gov.uk 07974 276944 James Valentine 35 Waterloo Road Bedford MK40 3PQ cllrjames.valentine@gmail.com 330621
MEETINGS TAKING PLACE IN JULY/AUGUST
PLANNING COMMITEE ............................6.30 10 July
TOWN COUNCIL ......................................7.30 10 July
COMMUNITY SAFETY FORUM ...............6.30 17 July
PLANNING COMMITTEE ..................6.30pm 7 August (if deemed necessary)
The Council is looking to appoint a Trustee to the Kempston Charities. This was set up back in the 17th century to support the needy and for educational needs for residents of Kempston town and Kempston rural. Grants are given according to criteria set down in the schedule of 1908. Each year the Trustees use the interest derived from investments to distribute amongst the two Parishes. The Trustees meet 3-4 times a year to consider applications received. If you are interested please contact the office.
Waterway Trust’s concern
Bedford and Milton Keynes Waterway Trust are concerned that the long-term future of the project to link the River Great Ouse with the Grand Union Canal in Milton Keynes is under serious threat. A long awaited upgrade of the A421 crosses the route of the waterway but omits a culvert to provide a future route underneath the road. To put in a culvert once the road has been built would be extremely difficult. Kempston Town Council fully supports the Waterway Trust’s vision for the future and will therefore be writing to local MPs, Central Beds Council and Milton Keynes Council asking for the provision of a crossing to be included in the A421 scheme.
COUNCILLORS’ HELP AND ADVICE SURGERY Every Saturday 10.30am–12 noon in Sainsbury’s at the Saxon Centre.
SAXON CENTRE Lloyds Pharmacy at Saxon Centre, 242 Bedford Road, Kempston, Bedford, MK42 8PP, is now under new management and trading as Britannia Pharmacy. Tel: 01234 854023 Email: britannia.242bedfordroad@britanniapharmacy.com We are an independent pharmacy and pride ourselves in offering quality services, tailored to meet the needs of our community. Since taking over from Lloyds pharmacy in Saxon centre; we have retained the same staff members, the same opening hours, and provide the same services as follows: n Electronic Prescription Service (EPS) n Free prescription collection and delivery service n Free glucose testing n Travel vaccinations n Free blood pressure check n Cholesterol testing n Emergency contraception n 7-day medication reminder packs
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4 — KEMPSTON CALLING
JULY 2018
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Seven years for robberies
A MAn from Bedford has been sentenced to seven years in prison after a string of knifepoint robberies, targeting victims who had withdrawn cash from the same cashpoint at a Bedford petrol station. Luke Byrne, 18, of no fixed address, was sentenced at Luton Crown Court on Monday, June 4, 2018, after pleading guilty to two robberies, and one attempted robbery, which took place between February and April. On 21 February, at approximately 8.15pm, Byrne used the threat of a knife to intimidate and rob a teenager who had withdrawn £80 from the cashpoint at the Texaco petrol station on Elstow Road. On 25 March, at 6.30pm, he followed a 60-year-old woman who withdrew cash from the same cashpoint. Once on Armstrong Road, he attempted to reach into her handbag, and when he was unsuccessful, he pushed her off the pavement and onto a grassed area, where he continued to reach for the bag, and produced a 20cm kitchen knife to threaten her. She screamed, and he ran off. On 5 April, at 11.30pm, Byrne used a knife and verbal threats towards another teenager, and stole £250 that he had just withdrawn from the cashpoint. Byrne was captured on CCTV, and identified by one of the victims. He was sentenced to two years each for the robberies, and a further two years for the attempted robbery. He also received two sentences of six months in addition for possession of bladed articles.
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JULY 2018 KEMPSTON CALLING —
New development woes for Kempston residents RESIDEnTS of a new estate in Kempston are being charged three times for council services. All home owners have to pay council tax and for the last few years many on new estates also pay a maintenance company for services such as grass cutting, hedge trimming and road repairs, at least until the estate becomes ‘adopted’ by the council. But on the new Bedford Meadows estate in Kempston residents are being charged full council tax, a maintenance charge plus another charge by the council to look after rural park areas. The council looks after such areas on other estates but does not normally make a separate charge for them. Issues surrounding new housing developments and who pays for maintenance has been swirling around for years, but this is thought to be the first time householders will be getting three bills a year. One resident, Sacha Kennard – Brown,
said: “It is outrageous that we have to pay three charges for what should all come under the council tax. “To make matters worse I have been unable to get an adequate response from the council on this matter. “The developer, David Wilson Homes, did not advise us of additional maintenance and the borough council is not responding to my emails.”
THREE BILLS “It should all be part of our council tax and we should not be getting three bills. “I am very angry.” Bedford Borough Councillor for Kempston, Will Hunt, said: “I have sympathy with the residents. They were, apparently, not informed of the situation by either the developer or their solicitors. The same situation occurs in the Great Denham area so I believe.” A Borough Council spokesperson said: “The payment is an annual maintenance
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sum set by the developer as part of the planning process. The liability payment is included in the deed for each property and owners should have been made aware of the payment when they purchased their property. The Council has since taken on the responsibility for the maintenance and management of the areas in question from the developer and the payments will be ring-fenced for this work. “Some other new developments within the Borough are maintained under similar arrangements through a private management company. The Council cannot direct any developer in terms of how they choose to operate and fund maintenance of amenity areas but can require that such arrangements are robust and capable of ensuring the long term maintenance of such areas for the benefit of residents.” Residents are setting up a facebook discussion group for Bedford Meadows on FB called ‘Residents of Bedford Meadows, Kempston’.
6 — KEMPSTON CALLING
JULY 2018
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Beds for Beds via YMCA HOMELESSLESS is constantly in the news these days but few solutions are spotlighted. However, one organisation is offering more than 220 ‘beds in Beds’ to those aged 16 - 64: and that is YMCA Bedfordshire. Readers may associate the name with youth hostelling and the famous 1970s song by the Village People. The reality is a YMCA Beds accommodation project is not a one night stop-over but a home for up to two years, with advice, assistance and a listening ear. “We provide 36% of all accommodation to the homeless across the county and more than this, we offer guidance and courses to encourage people to go on to lead independent lives,” said YMCA Beds CEO Paul Hunt. The original YMCA Bedfordshire accommodation
project, Weaver House, is still in Gibbons Road, Bedford while the latest and newest, Midland House, is on King Street, Luton. Plus there is: The Foyer in Conduit Road, Bedford (formerly managed by
BPHA). The purpose-built Cornerstone on Tavistock Street, Bedford. Linden House, a Victorian conversion in Linden Road, Bedford. In addition there are supported lodgings across Beds and Luton to
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allow those aged 16-21 to move on from care into a “family” environment. There are also two Women’s Refuges in “central Bedfordshire”. YMCA Bedfordshire is a Housing Association, a Company Limited by Guarantee and a charity. YMCA Bedfordshire is part of a federation of 100 UK-wide. In Bedfordshire, the YMCA focusses on the practical help of secure accommodation.
Midland House, a former bank, has been decorated in a trendy urban style to make it feel like home not an institution, to 78 residents who start with en-suite rooms with a shared kitchenette, and they can progress on to self-contained one-bedroom flats. “When we opened this we took in many people from council emergency Bed & Breakfast and we calculated it saved the council tens of thousands of pounds,” added Paul, “People’s rent is paid by Housing Benefit and they pay £10 a week toward utilities and other bills. “But more than that the residents feel they have a home, they have access to shared community facilities, our Skills4 courses and guidance on how to move on into a tenancy where they will have to manage their own lives. “This extra support helps fill up those gaping holes left when people come from chaotic backgrounds, who have not had the benefit of parents giving them advice and setting a good example, or have never had to take responsibility for running their own lives.” YMCA Bedfordshire is currently refurbishing older accommodation. At the Victorian Linden House, the property is being refurbished and will provide an additional four rooms for those aged 30+ who are homeless and are perhaps leaving hospital and cannot go back to street living. At Weaver House, the original project, is being upgraded. Photograph: Left CEO Paul Hunt and Housing Manager Junayd Hanif at Midland House, Luton.
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JULY 2018 KEMPSTON CALLING —
A taste of Havana at the Bedford Cigar smoking Club
HARRISOn and Simmonds on Bedford High Street host a Cigar Club for ladies and gentlemen who enjoy a hand rolled Montecristo or Cohiba. The club has been meeting for over six years and members can sample Cuban and new World cigars over a relaxing drink on the roof terrace at The Standard pub in Bedford. Expert speakers, like Tom Lewis from Hunters & Frankau, are also invited to the club to discuss the range of cigars on offer. Dominic Simmonds organises the meetings: “Our events are a very relaxed, informal affair and anyone is welcome to join. Usually we have 15 – 20 people gathered on the roof terrace, enjoying their choice of cigar in good company. One of our members is a local butcher who often treats us to cooked samples of his wares as well!” Harrison and Simmonds is celebrating 90 years in business and has been in the Simmonds family for five generations since 1928. Their High Street shop sells a wide range of the very best cigars and accessories. For more details on the next ticket-only Cigar Club meeting contact Dominic at Harrison and Simmonds on 01234 266711, pop into the shop at 80 High Street Bedford or email contact.hs@gmail.com.
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8 — KEMPSTON CALLING
JULY 2018
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
COME AND ADOPT BEDFORD Borough Council is asking people from black and ethnic minority communities to consider adoption. Facts and figures from adoption agencies across the country have shown that children from black and ethnic minority backgrounds often wait longer to be adopted and find their forever family. While these children may wait longer, black adopters often find a match with their child or children sooner. Adoption can offer children who
may have had a difficult start the opportunity to live happy, healthy and fulfilling lives with their new families and give adoptive parents the chance to begin or complete their family. Cllr Shan Hunt, Portfolio Holder for Children’s Social Care said “There are lots of considerations within the matching process for adoption, including ethnicity, and we are always looking to encourage people to consider adoption. Lots of people are able to adopt, and we
looking for people who can offer a loving stable home to children who may have had a difficult start in life.” If you’d like to find out more about adoption, staff can answer any questions to help you decide if you’d like to start your adoption journey. Just give us a call on 01234 718718 to book onto our monthly information evening or email adoptionandfostering@bedford.gov. uk or visit adopt4us.com to download an information pack.
Working together for safer communities
An investment by housing association bpha is set to support Bedford Borough Community Safety Partnership in their aim to curb the anti-social behaviour and crime blighting the lives of local residents. bpha has granted £18,000 to the safety partnership, money that will be used to purchase two state-of-theart mobile CCTV cameras. The cameras will be deployed across the town with the aim of gathering high quality images that can be used as evidence in cases of nuisance and criminal behaviour. Helena Pountney, bpha Regional Manager, said: “Working with our partners to ensure our neighbourhoods are as safe as possible is something we take very seriously. This is a significant investment, but one we are convinced will help keep our communities safer.” The cameras will be used to gather evidence in priority areas. These areas will be identified based on the numbers of incidents reported by concerned residents. Colleen Atkins, Bedford Borough Councillor and Portfolio Holder for Community Safety and Regulatory Services, said: “The investment made by bpha is one that will really benefit the community. Keeping our residents safe is vital and the two new cameras will play a huge part in gathering evidence to help bring perpetrators to justice. “The Bedford Borough Community Safety Partnership only works because organisations work well together and this is a great example of partnership working at its best.” As well as effective CCTV systems it is also important that residents report crime and activities of anti-social behaviour as these reports help decide where to best locate mobile CCTV cameras. Jim Playle, bpha Community Development Officer, said: “CCTV is a great resource, but having people report these activities when they happen is just as important and will help us direct the use of the cameras far more effectively. “Calling the Police on 101 for non-emergency incidents, reporting through the ‘Report Online’ facility on the Bedfordshire Police website or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, is vital in helping us tackle these issues.” If you would like to take a more active role in crime prevention you can either join or start a neighbourhood Watch Group. For more information please call 01234 842861 or email bedfordnhwatch@gmail.com.
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JULY 2018 KEMPSTON CALLING —
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10 — KEMPSTON CALLING
JULY 2018
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Under 14s achieve the treble
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FOR the third year running Kempston girls have achieved the treble, winning the League Cup, County Cup and the league while winning every game and remaining unbeaten for the third year. Three of the team scored 75 goals between them: Holly Damon (28) Maryam Hussain (25) and Holly Tyrrell (22) while the team scored 130 and 6 goals against. Manager Tommy Tyrrell puts their success down to the enthusiasm and enjoyment the girls have for the game, such is their determination all training sessions are well attended with the girls eager to learn, the most frustrating thing about the team is we would love to play up a year but most of the girls are two years younger at the end of August which prevents the team playing in a higher league because of F.A. rules because they would be three years younger. Also four of our girls Holly Tyrrell, Chloe Esposito, Louisa Sexton and Ciara Thompson have been asked to trial with a Premiership side which reflects how they have developed over the years. We have further trials in July as it looks like we will be losing players who are trialing. Back row (L-R) Holly Damon, Louisa Sexton, Freya Hobbs, Hannah Major, Chloe Esposito, Bronagh McClelland, Mya Banghar, Ciara Thompson, Tommy Tyrrell (Manager). Front Row(L-R) Isabel Archard, Amelia Goldfinch, Maryam Hussain, Holly Tyrrell (Captain), Aliya Bhatti, Emily Pritchett, Freya Opperman. –––––––––––––
Bedfordshire Women Unite!
On Sunday 10 June Bedford Creative Arts, women from Bedfordshire and artist Quilla Constance (aka Jennifer Allen) took to the streets of central London with the banner they designed and created. They walked alongside 30,000 women and girls to mark the centenary of the first British women’s right to vote. Wearing scarves in the colours of the suffragette movement (green, violet and white) women from across the UK gathered to walk through the four political capitals, Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast. PROCESSIOnS was a mass artwork that created a living, moving river of colour in the heart of each city.
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JULY 2018 KEMPSTON CALLING —
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Winners of The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service
HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Helen nellis, said the county is ‘xceptionally fortunate’ to have so many volunteers as four organisations were honoured with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. Bedfordshire District Cerebral Palsy Society (BDCPS), Friends of Harrold-Odell Country Park, Mandip Mudhar Memorial Foundation (MMMF) and Tibbs Dementia Foundation (TDF) have all been awarded the highest honour to local volunteer groups across the UK, in recognition of the outstanding work done in their own communities. It was created in 2002 to celebrate the anniversary of the Queen’s Coronation. Mrs nellis said: “We are exceptionally fortunate in Bedfordshire to have so many wonderful people giving their time freely and generously for the benefit of others. It is a great joy that these organisations have been awarded such a prestigious honour and I offer them all my sincere congratulations and thanks.” Bedfordshire District Cerebral Palsy Society (BDCPS) provide specialist support for those living with cerebral palsy in Bedford Borough and Central Bedfordshire. BDCPS have been operating for 63 years and they have over 100 volunteers, some of whom are as young as 14 years old. Supporting young people up to age 25 with cerebral palsy and other disabilities, BDCPS work with the whole family to provide advocacy, advice and support where needed. With the support of BDCPS volunteers, young people with cerebral palsy are able to participate in activities such as rock climbing, sailing, ice skating, theatre productions and festivals. Friends of Harrold-Odell
Country Park are a group of people committed to supporting the upkeep of Harrold-Odell Country Park (HOCP). They assist in the maintenance and enhancement of the park, fundraise, support events, regularly take part in active conservation work, engage with the community, support educational services and contribute to the quarterly newsletter which informs visitors about the park and its facilities. Friends of HOCP have been operating for 11 years with no paid staff and rely solely on their volunteers, of which there are around 85. Mandip Mudhar Memorial Foundation (MMMF) have, since 2001, been highlighting the importance of organ donation within
the South Asian community through numerous events including an annual charity football tournament which brings communities together and raising funds for other charities. MMMF has no paid staff; its 5 volunteers enlist the help of other volunteers and link them to specific organ donation and fundraising awareness projects across the county. As a direct result of a family tragedy that led to organ donation, the founder of MMMF has personally attended over 100 events in the last 17 years and spoken to over 2,000 people. The football tournament has over 250 attendees every year, totalling over 4,250 over the 17 years. MMMF is a widely known and respected group in Luton and beyond.
Tibbs Dementia Foundation (TDF) provide a varied and stimulating programme of activities to people living with dementia. TDF is built on the belief that each person has ultimate value and they place the person living with dementia, and their carer, at the heart of all they do. With over 67 volunteers, TDF have supported almost 200 people with dementia and 180 carers. They have achieved this through delivering activities in the community which have, in turn, developed good relationships with establishments such as local schools, residential care homes and other local charitable organisations To nominate a group or find out more, please visit www.gov.uk/ queens-award-.for-voluntary-service.
Festival goers explore the great outdoors
Family fun, walking, running, horse-riding, trainrides and craft activities were just a few examples of the 70 events that took place across the landscape, during the may half term, as part of the first Greensand Country Festival. Organised by the Greensand Country landscape Partnership, the festival engaged residents and visitors with the distinct countryside from leighton Buzzard to Gamlingay, raising the profile of this beautiful destination, on their doorsteps. Teaming up with many local organisations, from well-established walking groups such as The Ramblers and Walk4Health to new businesses including Kelchner Brewery and Higher adventure, the festival catered for a variety of ages, abilities and interests. lindsay measures, Events and Engagements Officer at the Greensand Country landscape Partnership says: “We were really pleased with the fantastic response to our first Greensand Country Festival and would like to thank everyone who organised, volunteered at and attended our vast programme of events.
“We hope that those who came along to the festival enjoyed the event(s) they attended and learnt a little more about the much loved countryside that makes up Greensand Country. Following the success of the first event, we are already discussing the dates and details for next years’ festival and will issue further information very soon.” Chris Kelly and his wife, marisa, owners of Kelchner Brewery in ampthill, hosted a brewery tour and tasting as part of the inaugural Greensand Country Festival and is a proud supporter of Greensand Country. Chris explains: “as a new business owner, situated in the heart of Greensand Country, i was very keen to be involved in the first festival and in working closely with the landscape partnership to support the delivery of the programme. i’m looking forward to continuing to work with Greensand Country on future festivals and other upcoming initiatives.” For further information about Greensand Country visit greensandcountry.com, and for regular updates follow @greensandsocial on Facebook, Twitter and instagram.
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Inspiring creativity at John Bunyan Museum ‘BUnYAn Inspired 2’ at John Bunyan Museum, Mill Street, is a free exhibition running from Tuesday 10th July to Saturday 6th October and at Basement at Bunyan from Tuesday 10th to Saturday 21st July and Tuesday 21st to Saturday 25th August. The exhibition of artwork has been created by students from Youth Inspired using different artistic techniques and inspired by objects from John Bunyan Museum & Library’s collection, and the buildings of Bunyan Meeting. Youth Inspired is a Community Interest Company for young people and adults with autism, learning disabilities, and mental health issues. Artist-in-residence, Anne-Marie Stijelja said: “Each week I look forward to working with our group of inspiring students. The comradery is so positive and everyone is so understanding about each other’s needs. Encouragement is offered by everyone and space is given when desired. I love the fact that art can distract your mind for a few hours allowing you to feel free of any worries or concerns.” As one of the students explained: “The Bunyan Inspired Art Group
has been a great distraction from my current difficulties. It has given me something to look forward to each week, provided me with some social interaction (something I normally avoid), and has rekindled my love of painting.” The exhibition is part of a partnership project between John Bunyan Museum, Youth Inspired, and the Basement at Bunyan Gallery. Funded by Arts Council England (ACE) and the Friends of the John Bunyan Museum. Children can be inspired every Thursday in August 11-3.30pm with a fun programme of children’s craft activities and Wednesdays 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th August 10-12 they can have a go at some of the creative techniques on display in the exhibition. The John Bunyan Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday 11.00am – 4.00pm and admission is free. www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk/museum For information on how to make a donation to Youth Inspired, sponsor a learner, or attend an art course yourself then please contact us on 01234 480980 or email admin@youthinspired.org.uk www.youthinspired.org.uk
Staff, parents and pupils on the run
BEdFORd Road Primary have just begun a fundraising campaign to provide the children with new and improved playground equipment to replace old equipment which has had to be removed over the past two years. The children have all designed the type of playgrounds they would like. They were very imaginative, from water slides to sprayed dartboards! We have some fundraisers in the next month One of our teachers is running the mK 10k 20 members of staff, parents and children will be running the Northampton Colour Run on the 22nd July. There will be further fundraisers over the coming year. We have a facebook link which is https://www.facebook.com/bedfordroadprimary/
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Hotel to be reclad following Grenfell a NEWly built high-rise hotel in Bedford is having to remove all its cladding as it is flammable. The cost is expected to run into hundreds of thousands of pounds and could be as much as £1 million. Premier inn has a ten storey hotel as part of the prestigious Riverside North development on the River Great Ouse in the centre of the town. Following the tragic fire in Grenfell Tower, where 71 people lost their lives, many companies, including Premier inn tested all their cladding to ensure it is safe. as a result the cladding on the new hotel, which opened in 2017, will
need to be replaced. Work is expected to begin later this year to remove it and replace it with non-flammable material. Premier inn is owned by Whitbread, a Bedfordshire based company. a Premier inn spokesperson said: “The cladding on our Riverside North hotel is in the process of being replaced. “The safety of our guests and team members is always our number one priority and it has been independently and unequivocally confirmed by fire safety experts that the hotel is entirely safe to operate – irrespective of the exterior cladding.”
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Oakley Rural Day Centre
THE Day Centre provides our older people a place where they can make friends in a warm and comfortable atmosphere. A range of activities including crafts, entertainment, quizzes and good old conversation are at the heart of our day. We serve freshly prepared home cooked lunches together with tea, coffee and toast at the start of the day with beverages throughout. The Centre is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. For details of costs and advice regarding transport, contact Lynne on 01234 824935 or 07733 227374 Clients have taken part in various quizzes, group discussions and physical activities. They have also made pennants and picture frames using salt dough, made spectacle chains, and took part in basket weaving and paint blobbing! KEMPSTOn HAMMER CHOIR visited once again in March and May to entertain our clients with
a selection of songs. Also Sharnbrook learning for pleasure singers also entertained us. Our clients really enjoy a good old sing along! Seventeen year old magician Lucas Fordham entertained our clients. Lucas performed some amazing tricks. Our clients really loved it. We are grateful to Village Agents and Age UK who gave talks on the various services they provide. The talks were very informative and useful to some of our clients. There are dates booked for Urban Safari who will be visiting the centre bringing various animals and reptiles for the clients to see. There are also three dates booked where flower arranging demonstrations will take place at the centre. If anyone has access to the internet please visit our website, www.oakleyrural.org.uk
Players are elevated FOR the first time since the 2013/14 season, Kempston Rugby are amongst the names. Kempston find themselves in Midlands 4 East (South), renewing rivalries with Bedford Swifts, Stamford College OBs and Wellingborough OBs to name just three. Following some dark days when Kempston was just days from folding, the club has been moving in the right direction, down to the tireless work of several individuals who would not give up. A change in culture and attitude was called for and #SaturdaysForFun was adopted as the mantra for the club and success has followed. Two East Midlands Merit Leagues titles either side of one Runners Up spot proceeded a Play Off win at the end of the 2017/18 season. Kempston will kick off the 2018/19 season Saturday 8 September, away to Sileby Town RFC, also know as Sileby Vikings. Kempston’s first home game is on Saturday 15 September with Stamford College Old Boys the visitors to Cutler Hammer. Kempston Rugby Chairman Alex Redford said: “Getting back into the RFU Midlands leagues is
the culmination of the hard work that everyone associated with the club has done, both on the pitch and off it. Whilst we know that next season will be challenging, it is also going to be a very exciting one. Being back in the leagues is where we belong!” Pre season for the new campaign begins Thursday 12 July, 7pm at Cutler Hammer. Players new and old are welcome, of any ability. As well as playing in Midlands 4 East (South), Kempston are looking to field a second XV and will continue to play in the Vets cup completion. For more information visit www.pitchero.com/clubs/kempstonr fc or call 07733 228383.
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JULY 2018 KEMPSTON CALLING —
Plan to build 5,000 new homes in Marston Vale An outline planning application has been submitted by O&H Properties Ltd to Central Bedfordshire Council for a series of linked new villages in the Marston Vale. Located right in the heart of the Oxford to Cambridge arc, the Marston Valley development will bring significant new infrastructure, community facilities and up to 5,000 homes for the local area, built over a 20-year period. One of the highlights of the Marston Valley proposal is a major new waterway park connecting existing lakes. It would be the first new English waterway in over 100 years. The development will also deliver new jobs, new schools, leisure facilities, better public transport and health facilities. Approximately 45% of the 566 hectare site will be for built development, and over 55% (more than 300 hectares of the site) will be green open space, allotments, orchards, nature areas, lakes and water. no Green Belt land is affected. More than 20% of households in
the area attended exhibitions and meetings in February and March this year as part of a public engagement programme. O&H has refined its plans for Marston Valley following feedback from the engagement programme and these are reflected in the application material. Changes include providing greater woodland buffers to the east of Lidlington to put more distance between the existing village and the new housing, and introducing a limited extension to the village of Brogborough for some smaller family homes. The planning application will now be reviewed by planning officers at Central Bedfordshire Council and a formal consultation is being held by the council. The consultation period ends in mid July. For further details of the proposals, go to: www.marstonvalley.co.uk To comment on the planning application, go to www.central bedfordshire. gov.uk/marstonvale The application reference number is: CB/18/01969/OUT
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16 — KEMPSTON CALLING
JULY 2018
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Doors open to new homes at Wixams Retirement Village
SEVEnTY-OnE-year-old John Davey will be amongst the guests at the opening of the new Wixams Retirement Village show homes. John moved to Bedford nine years ago to be closer to his grandchildren and has previously worked as a production engineer in the aerospace industry. “I’ve been to the village meetings to learn more about ExtraCare and the village. My wife and I are really interested in the community life that Wixams will offer. We’re a bit isolated where we are at the minute, so we’re looking forward to the chance to have a close community around us” said John. He will be joined by partners from The ExtraCare Charitable Trust, Bedford Borough Council, Harpur Trust and Homes England, as well as future residents, to open the new show homes on June 8th. John, who currently lives nearby, is planning to move into a two bedroom shared ownership apartment. He has worked all over the world with his job, including America, Europe and Australia. “At the minute it’s the chance to make new friends and meet different people that attracts us to Wixams Village, but it’s also good to know that in the future care is there if we need it,” said John. “Everything is there at the village, with a shop and different facilities. It’s reassuring to know that when we get a bit older and less mobile, there is care
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available on our doorstep.” Wixams Retirement Village, which opens in 2019, will have a range of facilities for community use including a bar and bistro, village hall, IT suite, hair and beauty salon, gym and shop. Facilities can be used by residents, their families and the local community as part of a ‘community hub’. Up to 50 activities will be on offer each week including IT classes, choir, gardening and wheelchair aerobics. Around 1200 households have already registered their interest in the retirement village, which will be operated by registered charity The ExtraCare Charitable Trust. The village will have 230 homes, with 92 for outright sale, 92 for shared ownership and 46 available to rent for tenants nominated by the Council or Harpur Trust. Each apartment will have its own hallway, living room, one or two bedrooms, kitchen and shower room. Approximately a third of residents within the village will receive help with care. Dependent on individual circumstances, the village can support residents with significant assessed care needs, including dementia. ––––––––––––––––
Sexual assaults in Kempston
A 22-year-old man has been charged in connection with three sexual assaults in Kempston. nathan Aitken, of St John’s Avenue, Kempston, was arrested on Monday in connection with the incidents, which took place on Sunday and Monday, June 10 and 11, 2018, in the High Street area of Kempston. He appeared at Luton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, June 12, 2018, and was bailed pending a future court appearance.
Kempston woman set to lead her own Slimming World Group
MICHELLE Black, a local Kempston resident who lost over five and a half stones through her local Slimming World group is set to help others receive the same care and support she has received by becoming a Slimming World Consultant. Michelle joined Slimming World in August 2015 because she was very unhappy with her weight which had increased over the years. “My way of thinking was who cares?... I had very low self-esteem, and felt absolutely rubbish, but at the same time, didn’t know what to do about it. Then I met my consultant at a local fun day in Kempston, she was so warm and friendly, and I decided to give the group a go, and I haven’t looked back since.” Michelle was nervous about going along on that first evening, but she didn’t need to be. “Group is empowering and uplifting, you get support and motivation. You are with likeminded people who understand the issues surrounding food and weight. My consultant was very supportive and non-judgmental.” Michelle was delighted with her first weigh in results: “In my first week at Slimming World I lost 11lbs!!” One thing a lot of people might be worried about if thinking about losing weight is what you get to eat, being hungry, or feeling deprived. However with Food Optimizing, you don’t have to worry about any of these things. “The plan is amazing, you can eat so much and there are very few restrictions on what you can and can’t eat; and it is very easy to follow. There is minimal weighing/measuring of food. It works for the whole family and any recipes can be adapted to make them fit”. Michelle, who also has a busy family at home, was delighted with how easy it was to fit into her family meals. ‘All my family look forward to Curry night in our house, and we do it without any guilt because lean meats, rice and vegetables are all included, as well as all the herbs and spices needed to make any curry you fancy, with all the recipe’s and hints and tips you need.” “For those times where ‘quick, easy and indulgent’ are the watch words; a grill up of sausage, bacon, egg, beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, (making sure a third of the plate is filled with the tasty veg) goes down a storm.” When it comes to treats, Michelle explains how nothing is off limits. “I love the fact that I have been able to include some treats. A glass of wine or a tempting chocolate bar is easy to include with Syns.” “Eating out is not out of the question either; there are great choices available when eating out, and at group you get all the support
and guidance needed to know you can safely navigate any eating out situation while still being able to lose weight. I also love the fact that Slimming World recipes suit every food groups; from vegetarians to vegans, gluten free to dairy free, the support to make this fit any lifestyle is absolutely amazing!” Michelle is now hoping that by becoming a Consultant she can empower, guide and support others to achieve the results she has, “by going to Slimming World I am a much more confident and outgoing person and I feel totally different! I have much more energy and motivation to do things, I walk more, and I am not as tired as I used to be; clothes that were once off limits, now look and feel great on me.” Michelle will be taking over the Kempston Monday evening Slimming World group that meets weekly at 5:30pm & 7:30pm located in the Centenary Hall (located behind the town council) on the 16th July. If you wanted to speak to Michelle before going along, you can on 07595 518638 or just come along to get started.
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JULY 2018 KEMPSTON CALLING —
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Policing Minister praises Bedfordshire Police for BME recruitment success
POLICInG Minister nick Hurd (pictured left) congratulated our police force on our work recruiting from minority communities at a national conference on diversity in policing on Thursday June 7, 2018. Mr Hurd praised the force at the ‘Black and Minority Ethnic network Annual Conference’ held at Bedfordshire Police force’s headquarters in Kempston after hearing about the work taking place to encourage a more diverse workforce, to be more reflective of the county’s communities. Almost 180 people attended the
conference which saw speakers from various organisations discuss current issues around diversity. Speaking after the event, Mr Hurd, the Minister for Policing and the Fire Service, said: “Diversity is an important part of operational effectiveness for police and is essential to maintaining public trust.” “Bedfordshire Police has made real progress in ensuring the force reflects the community it serves. I look forward to working with Chief Constable Jon Boutcher and other police leaders to speed up progress on diversity.” In 2016, the force was the third worst force in the country for diversity and representation, with approximately 5.5 per cent of the workforce from diverse backgrounds – while 23.5 per cent of Bedfordshire’s communities were from diverse backgrounds. Since December 2016, the force has recruited 206 new police officers, and is now the third most representative force, following the Metropolitan Police and Greater Manchester Police. 11 per cent of
RANKED THIRD
Bedfordshire Police’s workforce is now from Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) communities, compared to 23 per cent of the county’s communities. Last year, the force’s recruitment team was recognised during the national Black Police Association Annual General Meeting (nBPA AGM), and received an award for its ongoing work to encourage more people from BME backgrounds to consider a career with the force. Chief Constable Jon Boutcher, who opened the event, is also the national policing lead for race and religion. Mr Boutcher said: “I’m a great believer that the police force should reflect the communities we serve. Our drive to attract candidates from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds has created a momentum I’ve not seen before in policing and is something I’m really proud of. “This conference is another stepping stone on the journey to making race and associated issues business as usual in policing. We need to have the trust and confidence of all of our communities and all of our staff. This event makes sure that we never
stop working to earn that trust.” Bedfordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Kathryn Holloway said: “nick Hurd specifically thanked the chief constable and I for the particular emphasis we both put on increasing diversity in our force and in policing as a whole which has brought outstanding results. It’s right there in my Police and Crime Plan and Jon Boutcher and I had talked at length about this as a joint priority for Bedfordshire Police before I even stood for election.
“It’s not only the morally right thing to do, to reflect our communities in the make-up of the force, but brings talents and skills to our policing that are absolutely critical, including speaking a range of languages and a knowledge of culture and community backgrounds. This does not mean for a single second that our other officers are not valued as highly but, as nick Hurd said, we need to recruit from the widest talent pool possible and policing has never done that, which is an absolute disgrace which has to be challenged and changed in 2018.”
RIGHT THING
18 — KEMPSTON CALLING
Great set of results!
FOR MAnY Karate is the foremost method of selfdefence but there is also a sporting side to it. On May 19th a large contingent of members of Kempston Shotokan karate club (based in Balliol School, Kempston) travelled to Bletchley for the CFTS annual Karate Competition Day. Those that entered competed with true karate spirit, hard but fair. The day was an excellent demonstration of everyone’s control and sportsmanship. The first aider was almost redundant only having to apply a little ice to a few knocks and bruises but most of the ice he used was in his drink! From the youngest and lowest grade to the highest ranked competitor everyone tried valiantly and what is nicest of all with a broad smile on their face. Kempton’s Deen Lavelle won gold in the under 10’s freestyle fighting competition with Karl Chiodo, Katie Quince and Faith Gazeley taking silver in their age groups. Ivan Miocinovic won the adult competition taking gold.
One of Kempton’s instructors, Dan Young, took another gold in adult individual kata (predetermined sequence of kicks punches and blocks) for the second year running and silver in the weapons category. Kempston also took gold in the synchronised team kata event where Karl Chiodo, Simone Weber and Isabelle Biggs gave a truly exceptional display of a very high standard. The day culminated with the team freestyle fighting competition where a joint Bedford and Kempston team won gold by the closest of margins. The team included Roy Currie, Karl Chiodo and Simone Weber of Kempston club. To win is desirable yet it is not the only reason for entering. By participating all Kempston members will have learnt a lot about themselves and their karate. On reflection it was a fantastic day out for the club with a great set of results. If you would like to find out more about the competition or Kempston Club please visit www.cfts-karate.co.uk alternatively ring Andy Kidby on 01234 853847.
INSTRUCTOR
JULY 2018
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Pokemon brings Bedford’s in the crowds Big High
yOu may have spotted people peering at their phones and walking around the Bedford Castle mound on the afternoon of Saturday June 16th. “it was a ‘Pokemon Go live’ on-line event where Bedford was one of the uK destinations and it brought 100s to the historic setting,” said Christina Rowe, director of BedfordBid which owns the love Bedford brand, “They were people who might otherwise have not visited Bedford so we took the opportunity to pop along and hand out copies of our brand new love Food & drink guide to all the places to enjoy in the town centre. “Not all of use are followers of Pokemon but it is phenomenon and locations selected are brought to the attention of 1,000s. “it was a busy weekend for businesses with some joining the Taste Bedford food and music event farther along the riverside, and Father’s day
causing customers to come in to town to visit the likes of Goldings ironmongers - always something there for diy fans. “On Sunday it was the 10k race starting on The Embankment, previously sponsored by the BedfordBid, again lots of people in the vicinity to take advantage of the shops and restaurants which were open.” Want to keep up with what’s happening in town Go to lovebedford.co.uk of follow us on Twitter, FB and instagram.
You’ve heard of us –but did you know? WE HAVE: a café (breakfast, lunch, afternoon
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Street Showcase brings biggest footfall to town centre
BEdFORd’S Big High Street Showcase took place on the 2nd June, 2018 along High Street, mill Street and in the arcade bringing in the largest footfall of any Saturday so far this year. Over 40 different businesses and local organisation traded outside on the day with many offering services and goods at special event prices.
Further attractions included children’s entertainment such as face painting, a climbing wall and funfair rides. The lady K stage welcomed local talent on its stage featuring choirs, bands, soloists & dancing. Paul mead of michael R Peters, who have been supporting this event since its inception, reported: “The largest number of entries to our competition ever!”
Bedford’s mayor, dave Hodgson said: “The High Street Showcase is intended to promote the town centre and our brilliant local traders, so it’s great news that it attracted the largest Saturday footfall of the year. “Thanks to all the groups and volunteers who took part, and to everyone who came along to support their town centre and enjoy the attractions.”
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JULY 2018 KEMPSTON CALLING —
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20 — KEMPSTON CALLING
JULY 2018
PUTTING PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT
It’s been a year now since I was elected to serve as Bedford & Kempston’s MP. From the get-go I knew that I wanted to fight for our hospital services, transport links, schools and local services and now I had the opportunity to do so in Parliament. I’ve spoken a lot in Parliament in the last 12 months standing up for our hospital services, transport links, schools and local services. I’ve also spoken against Tory cuts, our nHS, council budgets, prison, courts and police services. Brexit negotiations have taken up a lot of parliamentary time – this very complex issue has divided the nation. In my second year as your MP, I’ll do what I can to fight to protect jobs and Britain’s future prosperity. Our local nHS services are struggling –
HARMING OUR LOCAL ECONOMY
The introduction of the new Thameslink rail timetables since May has been a complete and utter shambles. Its effects are not simply ‘inconvenience’ for rail users, who have faced the strain of not being able to meet basic day-to-day commitments at home or at work. I’ve met with rail bosses and government representatives to press them to do whatever it takes to bring some reliability to the services. What has become clear is that the government was well aware that the system was simply unprepared for the changes prior to their introduction. It allowed them to go ahead, however, and didn’t take action to avert the crisis that passengers went on to suffer week after week.
COMPASSION OUT-TRUMPS THE RULES
As I write this Billy Caudwell has just left hospital. You may remember that Billy is the twelve year old boy who suffers from seizures that are relieved by treatment with cannabis oil. Billy was in hospital because supplies of the cannabis oil brought into the country from Canada by his mother were confiscated by customs as a banned substance. In particular the oil contains Tetrahydrocannabinol which is illegal in the UK. As a result of the confiscation his seizures multiplied once more and his life was at risk. Thankfully the Home Secretary used his powers to grant a temporary 20 day licence for the use of the banned substance enabling Billy to recover to the extent that he could leave hospital. At the same time a specialist
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
In Focus with
Yasin MP for Bedford and Kempston the hospital merger that we hope will finally secure our A&E, Paediatrics and Maternity in Bedford has been hit by capital funding issues. Our walk-in centre is fighting for its survival whilst GP practices have closed. Recent news of a proposed Urgent Treatment Centre on the hospital site is to be welcomed, but this should not be at the expense of much needed services elsewhere.
In Focus with
Dave by Dave Hodgson Mayor of Bedford Even worse, it should be remembered that these failing new timetables are for the services we are left with by the government after the removal of peak-time fast intercity trains. If and when the new timetables work as planned, we will still have slower commuter trains to London and rail replacement buses to and from Bedford for
View from the Rt Revd
Richard Atkinson
The Bishop of Bedford
committee has been set up to review the medicinal use of cannabis products. It is an urgent question, for not only is a twenty licence a time-limited response in Billy’s case, but there are others for whom access to cannabis based remedies could be life changing. As I read about Billy and listened to the news reports I shared the frustration of so many that this young boy’s life was at risk because of the law. I understand the wider debate about the use of cannabis in our society, especially for recreational purposes, but this is not about this. I
The fight to keep our rail services has been the most pressing challenge. After a catastrophic timetable change in May, rail users have been confronted with daily chaos. I had warned the Government for months that these changes would be disastrous for Bedford and it’s far worse than I feared. We pay some of the highest fares in Europe for the worst service. The rail system in our country is broken and it’s time to return Britain’s rail services to public ownership, so that passengers can be put before profit. It’s an immense privilege to be your representative in Parliament, but it is the work that my team and I do in the constituency that I have enjoyed the most. I have met a lot of you at my drop-in surgeries and have knocked on many of your doors, but please do get in touch if you have something that you want me to help you with – I will do all I can to assist.
many travellers for at least two years. As if this doesn’t illustrate the sheer contempt with which Bedford rail users are being treated clearly enough, the Government has now delivered a further devastating blow. It has chosen to almost entirely remove Bedford from the intercity rail network under the new East Midlands rail franchise. This will effectively downgrade our infrastructure and harm our local economy. Yet it comes as the government is insisting on a massive rise in housebuilding targets for Bedford Borough. It also directly contradicts what Bedford rail users told the government via its consultation, despite the fact Bedford rail users responded in far greater numbers than those from anywhere else. Those people deserve so much better, and I’ll keep working with anyone in the cause of getting it for them. recognise that there is uncertainty about the long-term effects of such treatment. But I also know that sometimes compassion out-trumps the rules.
I am reminded of all those times in the new Testament when Jesus is challenged by the religious leaders over adherence to the strict laws about the Sabbath.
On one occasion in Mark’s Gospel Jesus encounters in the Synagogue a man with a shrivelled hand. Healing on the Sabbath is one of the long list of activities that is prohibited, but Jesus responds: “Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” We are told that the religious leaders cannot or will not answer. Jesus is also clear that sometimes compassion out-trumps the rules. Having said that this doesn’t make it easy to judge the implications of compassion. Just think of the complex issues of end of life care. It certainly doesn’t mean that all laws are otiose. However in Billy Caudwell’s case we can rejoice that compassion won through!
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JULY 2018 KEMPSTON CALLING —
21
Well deserved treat!
ON the 19th may Kempston Rovers Colts u9 lions swapped their football kits for wetsuits and enjoyed a well deserved treat at Box End aqua Park. They were joined by their coaches and parents, the sun was shining and the water wasn’t too cold so a huge amount of fun was had by everyone. all the lads have worked hard in training and this has showed with some great football having been played during
Garden notes AT LAST the relaxed month in the gardening year. nothing to do but weeding, watering, harvesting and hopefully finding time to sit back with a cold drink in your hand (or a hot one if you prefer) contemplating the fruits of your labours and drinking in the heady aromas of barbecues from all points of the compass. I like to think that a lot of the urgency is past and with a bit of luck it is warm enough and dry enough so that when you mow the grass it doesn’t grow back quite as quickly and the weeds stay hoed. Of course, if you grow soft fruit that has to be dealt with fairly promptly and I have to say that so far I have had no complaints from the ladies in my life about dealing with the pound or so of strawberries I have been picking almost daily for the last month. But then I wouldn’t would I? To spread it out I only grow Autumn fruiting raspberries. Apart from the fact that they are easier in that at the end of the year you just cut everything down to ground level, it prolongs the fruiting season and makes it less likely that you will have a glut, although a
few years ago I had two twenty foot rows of Joan J raspberries and for eight to ten weeks I was picking up to five pounds a day. Over fifty pounds per week. As they say up north, think on! I wouldn’t want to put anyone off growing fruit as I believe everyone should if they can as it is the fresher and tastier than anything you can buy even from a farmers market. When deciding to grow fruit you need to think about what you are going to do with it. Medium sized apple and pear trees can produce well over a hundred weight of fruit a year when established, all at once. Cooking apples are less of a problem than eating apples as there are so many things you can do with them and so many ways of storing them. Some varieties of eating apple will keep for two or three months in the right conditions but pears have almost as short a shelf life as soft fruit and a hundred weight of ripe pears can make you as popular as a man with six courgette plants. Richard Callaghan
matches. Over the summer they have a few tournaments planned before preparing for the next season. The coaches, matt and duncan along with the boys would like to thank local companies VW Panels, Bedford Timber Supplies, aC & Co Grab Hire, lepore Residential Sales and JB Gardening services for their support throughout the 2017/18 season.
22 — KEMPSTON CALLING
JULY 2018
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
JULY IN THE GARDEN – by Milton Ernest Garden Centre
A
Tropical colour in your garden
LTHOUGH summer in England can be hot we are not likely to reach the temperature and rainfall of tropical regions where most flowers are brilliantly coloured. However we can create similar spectacles by selecting plants that together give a tropical feel to our gardens but will happily grow in our climate. Alstromerias are a great group of low growing summer flowering perennials that require little maintenance and are now available in a vast range of bright hot colours. They are excellent when planted at the front of the borders or in pots where they produce nonstop flowers from June to October. The stems can be used for flower arranging and should be pulled not cut from the plant. The more you pull the stems the more new shoots the plant produces. Alstromerias should be grown in well drained soil in a sunny place and covered with mulch in winter until really established. If you are growing these plants in pots use John Innes No. 2 compost and give protection during severe winters. A gorgeous new variety to look out for is Indian Summer with pale and vivid orange outer petals and
yellow inner petals and striking dark markings. Dahlias are another group that have enjoyed a lot of Growers attention over the last few years. There are now some lovely perennial varieties which although subject to frost damage if planted six inches deep in the ground and covered with thick mulch in winter will survive and thrive. Dahlias grown in tubs they should be protected in a conservatory, covered porch or greenhouse. Plant the tubers or plants in a rich organic soil or compost and protect the young plants from frost. Remove the growing tip from young plants to encourage branching and so more flower buds. The plants are very easy to grow but can be subject to aphids or earwig damage so spray with Provado when any are seen. By continually cutting the flowers for vases indoors encourages a lot more flowers. Strawberry Bon Bon and Amazon are two stunning small decorative varieties while Bishop of Lancaster is bright red. Crocosmias are a vibrant range of hardy perennials that grow well in sun or shady places. There is an ever increasing range of varieties with more being added every year. They flower from July until a really hard frost often into December. The dazzling range of colours becomes more and more tropical.
They are always a successful plant to grow in normal well drained soil and are pest and disease free. Columbus and Buttercup are both good shining golden yellow varieties with Emily Mckenzie a dramatic orange with red centres. Rudbeckias are very hardy daisy like flowers which are also very easy to grow in normal well drained soil in full sun. There are annual and perennial types and if the annual seeds are sown in March they will be flowering by July until October. The vibrant yellow and orange flowers are now accompanied by new red varieties. Butterscotch is the honey and orange colour that the name suggests. Canna Lilies are perhaps the most tropical plants we can grow. They are traditionally grown as centre pieces or accent plants in large bedding plant displays. They will flower from July onwards but when the foliage turns yellow and droops down stop watering and allow the plant to dry completely to over winter successfully. Protect with a thick layer of mulch and start watering and feeding again the following March. If growing in pots stop watering completely and put somewhere frost free for winter. Tropicana Black is a must variety to grow with the electrifying contrast of the orange flowers and very dark leaves.
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
JULY 2018 KEMPSTON CALLING —
out & about music a
The Pink Floyd Tribute Show – The Bell and Moon Tour 2018 Bedford Corn Exchange 7.30pm Friday 27th July
WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO SEE THEATRE OF HATE – JUST EMAIL THE ANSWERS TO: sally@thepadpresents.com Put “Theatre of Hate, competition” in the subject line. (1) What band did Kirk Brandon form after Theatre of Hate? (2) What is the name of the band’s latest album?
Theatre of Hate Bedford Esquires Following a sell-out show back in 2016 Kirk Brandon brings the original post-punk band Theatre Of Hate to Bedford Esquires this July. In 1980, Kirk Brandon formed Theatre Of Hate from the ashes of heralded punk band The Pack. Joining Kirk on vocals were notable punk musicians Stan Stammers and Luke Rendall, along with old school friend, Steve Guthrie and Canadian born John “Boy” Lennard, who revolutionised the band’s sound with his haunting sax lines. Theatre Of Hate’s debut double-A-side single, “Legion”/”Original Sin”, topped the independent chart in 1980, and “Westworld”, their debut album, produced by Mick Jones from The Clash and released in 1982,held the number one position for 21 weeks. The single taken from the album, “Do You Believe In The Westworld?” has become an anthem and is still widely played in clubs and on international radio, as well as featuring on numerous compilation albums. Supporting the likes of The Clash & Ian Dury lead to Theatre Of Hate headlining major venues across the UK & northern Europe. Theatre Of Hate imploded in 1982, with Kirk taking Stan forward to form Spear Of Destiny, but the band has resurfaced over the years to play some very special shows. Having been asked by John Curd to join The Damned for a massive show at London’s infamous Roundhouse in December 2014 the band once again joined the
Thursday 26th July, 7.30pm
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fray. A short set of dates around the London anchor show attracted rave reviews, as did a 6 night night SOLD OUT run in December 2014. 2015 saw the band play two short jaunts across the UK in April and December both sets of dates wowed large crowds. During touring in 2014 and 2015 the band constantly recorded at Oxygen Studios in Manchester, the first new studio album in 30 years KInSHI was released late last year on CD, Vinyl, Download & Dub. The 12 brand new songs are simply stunning. Part funded by a fan based private Pledge campaign this THEATRE OF HATE masterpiece is all set propel the band even further back into the spotlight. Kirk, Stan and John will be joined by current Spear Of Destiny band member Adrian Portas (new Model Army) and Chris Bell (Hugh Cornwall) on drums to pay homage to the iconic TOH sound. Special guest support come from THE MEMBRAnES the highly influential UK underground band. The Membranes recently reformed. In the 80s they developed a dark and discordant and wild music that was at the forefront of the Death To Trad Rock UK underground scene. Fronted by John Robb this is the band first appearance in Bedford for over 25 years. Tickets priced £18 are on sale now from seetickets and are be available in person from Slide Record Store, Esquires Bar, mario’s Hair design in Bedford & Vinyl Revelations in luton.
The music of Pink Floyd as it was meant to be heard Pink Floyd’s recording career spanned almost three decades and, for its 10th Anniversary, The Floyd Effect has chosen two of the band’s most remarkable albums to create The Bell And The Moon tour 2018. Spotlighting the music of The Division Bell (1994) and a complete, unbroken performance of the iconic Dark Side Of The Moon (1973), concerts will also include tracks from Wish You Were Here, Animals and The Wall, delighting Pink Floyd fans everywhere. The Floyd Effect is renowned for the remarkable accuracy with which it performs the music of Pink Floyd. All of the band’s members are top quality musicians with pedigrees that stretch across all manner of musical genres, and they faithfully recreate the music and intensity of a Pink Floyd concert without recourse to backing tracks, racks of computers, or other technological wizardry. Every note that you hear is played and sung by the band, making each concert a genuine ‘live’ experience; powerful, immersive and emotional. And, of course, the music is supported by a dramatic light show that incorporates the iconic circular screen, two sets of projections, smoke and lasers. no strangers to Bedford, The Floyd Effect is back by popular demand after a sell-out show in December 2016. Sit back and enjoy The Floyd Effect as the band takes you on a journey through the music of Pink Floyd. Unless you were there the first time around, it was never as real as this. www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk box office: 01234 718044.
24 — KEMPSTON CALLING
JULY 2018
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Hammers Art Group
The Hammers Art Group are an informal group of people of very mixed abilities with a general interest in any kind of art. We meet at Kempston Hammers club hall (formerly Cutler Hammer) on Wednesdays between 10am and noon. Our members sketch, use pattern books, water colours, acrylic painting etc. and we enjoy the freedom to get on with anything we fancy doing whether is is from the mind, photos or the lovely field surroundings. We help each other and advice is always to hand if required.
If you think this appeals to you then please feel free to pop in and see us on Wednesday mornings, bring some artist supplies and have a go for a couple of sessions and you will be assured of a friendly welcome, a cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit enjoyed with like-minded people. We are situated in the Kempston Hammers Sports & Social Club, 134 High Street, Kempston on the corner of the High Street and Cemetery Road down the drive alongside the sports field and can be contacted on weekday mornings between 9 and 12 on 01234 853262. If you are interested in coming along we would be very happy to see you there soon!
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CAR BOOT SALE Sundays: 15th July, 19th August, 16th September and 21st October Sellers 9.00am – Buyers 10.00am
MILTON ERNEST GARDEN CENTRE Radwell Road, Milton Ernest MK44 1SH Teas, Coffee, Breakfast, Snacks in Café For pitch enquiries contact Simon 01234 823033 E: simongoatley@miltonernestgardencentre.co.uk
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
2018 River Festival bigger than ever
2018’s Bedford River Festival will be bigger than ever before, with the Festival expanding further down the River to include St Marys’ Gardens. St Mary’s Gardens will host a stage, an arts and crafts marquee as well as a marquee for The Higgins
Bedford. There will also be giant games and circus skills area, as well as an Adventure Village with a low rope course, bushcraft activities, and canoe trail.
This year the River Festival marks its 40th anniversary on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th July, and is recognised as one of the largest outdoor events of its kind in the UK with the last Festival in 2016
JULY 2018 KEMPSTON CALLING —
seeing over a quarter of a million people enjoying this free Festival on Bedford’s Embankment. As well as this all new area, many of the old favourites are back for this year’s Festival with the Carnival Parade, the Dragonboat and Raft races, the boat parade, music, a wide selection of food and drink, and Saturday night’s fireworks display.
Mayor Dave Hodgson said: “This year’s River Festival is fast approaching, and it’s exciting to see all the new events, stalls and entertainments that will be on St Mary’s Gardens. This is a lovely and underused stretch of our riverside, and with the new Riverside Bedford development across the water I’m sure this will be a popular area during the River Festival weekend.”
Free Fun for all the Family... 14th & 15th July 2018 The Embankment, Russell Park & St. Mary’s Gardens
CELEBRATING 40 YEARS! 1978 – 2018
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Daily from 11am
Fireworks • Music • Food & Drink of the World • Funfair • Festival Parade Sports, Heritage & Cultural Villages • Dragon Boats • Raft Races & more!
For more information, please visit www.bedford.gov.uk/riverfestival
26 — KEMPSTON CALLING
JULY 2018
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
comedy p
Best of Castle Comedy at Bedford’s Quarry Theatre Castle Comedy has a spectacular show on Thursday July 28th at the state-of-the-art The Quarry Theatre at St luke’s, Bedford as part of the Bedfringe Festival. The Best Of Castle Comedy Special sees three of the biggest stars from the UK comedy circuit taking the stage for the ultimate comedy show!
Opening the show is lucy Porter. She is one of the most loveable comics in the country and a fringe favourite! She starred in the new series of ‘Live at the Apollo’ and has also appeared on ‘QI’, ‘nevermind the Buzzcocks’, ‘Mock The Week’ and ‘Have I got news for You’. “Porter is one of the most talented comics on the circuit. Brilliantly crafted jokes. This is get happy comedy at its very best.” ★★★★★ Time Out marcel lucont is a flâneur, raconteur, bon-viveur, and easily the greatest UK-based French comedian around! He has appeared on ‘The John Bishop Show’, ‘Live at The Electric’, Sky Atlantic’s ‘Set List’ and ‘Russell Howard’s Good news’. “Fresh, accessible and hilarious” The Guardian Closing the show are The Raymond and mr Timpkins Revue. They are without a doubt the maddest, silliest, stupidest, cleverest, strangest and the funniest double act of comedians on the circuit. Likened to Morecambe and Wise and the Two Ronnies, they
count David Walliams amongst their legion of fans. Guaranteed to bring the house down. “The original and the best!” david Walliams
“A mad, anarchic triumph of stupidity over style. Not to be missed” The Guardian Tickets are £16, To book visit:www.castlecomedy.co.uk
THE
conclub KEMPSTON 01234 851120 Saturday 7th July
Saturday 4th August
BACK BY REQUEST THE AMAZING
THE AWESOME
MELITA
JOE SCRIPPS
WITH A NIGHT OF REGGAE AND MOTOWN
WITH THE ULTIMATE 80s NIGHT – IT'S ALSO OUR 80s FANCY DRESS NIGHT
Saturday 14th July
THE BRILLANT DUO
NEW HARMONY WITH A FANTASTIC MIX OF POP AND SOUL Saturday 21st July
ONE OF THE CONCLUB’S FAVOURITES
DANNI BENTLEY Saturday 28th July
THE BEAUTIFUL
SHONA WITH SOME CLASSIC DISCO SONGS
DIARY DATES Sunday 26th August
KIDS SUMMER PARTY THEN INTO THE NIGHT WITH A SOUL AND REGGAE NIGHT WITH THE FANTASTIC
NICK JAMES Come watch the WORLD CUP on our 3 screens 50p OFF a pint of Fosters and pint of Smooth during the England games
SATURDAY NIGHT BINGO BEER RAFFLE – WIN A £30 BAR TAB
Daxtonbury Festival Podington 6 - 8 July 2018
‘The Best Three-Day Party In Bedfordshire’. That’s the audacious claim made by the team behind this year’s Daxtonbury Festival being held over the weekend of July 6-8, on farmland near the village of Podington in north Bedfordshire. Famously described as the love child of a liaison between Glastonbury and a village fete the event, which is now in its eleventh year, sets out to mix lots of loud music with country crafts and fun activities for all the family. As well as over thirty bands and artists performing on the Main Stage throughout the weekend there will be a host of other activities to
entertain and enjoy. Local company, Urban Safari, will be bringing an amazing collection of exotic animals and reptiles, there will be the chance to try your hand at clay pigeon shooting, hang out in the cinema tent, watch morris dancing or let the kids loose in the play area complete with inflatables and rides. The main arena will play host to the most hotly contested wellywanging event in the county and in another corner of the site a group of (fairly) well-behaved Vikings will enthral festival-goers with their norse sagas and invitations to enter their temporary village. Even dogs are allowed so long as they are accompanied by their well-behaved owners. This is a festival where the organisers always believe in trying to do things just a little bit different!
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
“Sweet as a nut”
JULY 2018 KEMPSTON CALLING —
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NEW LOOK – NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED
Daley’s Bedford Road, Kempston 01234 851143 ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
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ALMOST ABBA WORLD CUP SPECIAL SATURDAY 7th JULY
TICKETS ON SALE AT THE BAR £4 IN THE FUNCTION ROOM
★★★★
SATURDAY 5th AUGUST FREE IN THE BAR
KARAOKE DISCO
Watch all world cup matches on the big screen – cheap beer when the match is in play special price starts at
4 pints for £10.00 SNOOKER TABLES ★★★★
£3 PER HOUR
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Mon-Thurs 11.30am–12midnight, Fri-Sat 11.30am-1am, Sunday 12noon-12midnight
...
28 — KEMPSTON CALLING
JULY 2018
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
WOOTTON ACADEMY Kimberley College
TRUST
Woo on Upper School
SUMMER CONCERT A joint concert with our partner school, E.T.A. Ho man Gymnasium, Bamberg, Germany.
Kimberley College Green Lane, Stewartby, Beds MK43 9LY
Thursday 5th July 2018 7.30 p.m.
Free Entry with Ticket
Tickets available from Reprographics Department, Woo on Upper School, Hall End Road, Woo on, Beds MK43 9HT Telephone: 01234 767123. Enjoy a lovely evening listening to a range of di erent musical styles performed by our music students and the musicians from Germany.
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
‘Suddenly’, ‘When the Going gets Tough (the tough gets going)’as well as the now classic Get Outta My Dreams; Get Into My Car plus many many more! Also on the bill is international soul singer Jaki Graham, the mighty aSWad, loose Ends ft Carl mcintosh and ‘The Christians’.
Jess Glynne
Bedford Park Saturday August 4
Billy Ocean Bedford Park Friday August 3
Billy Ocean has sold over 30 million records in his lifetime to date. He has collected a pile of Gold and Platinum records across the world and hit the number one spot worldwide in the pop charts including the USA, Australia, Germany, Holland, and the UK. Billy has achieved extraordinary success as both an artist and a songwriter. We are so excited to have this exceptional artist confirmed to play in Bedford Park this summer. Backed by his full band expect hit after hit from ‘Love Really Hurts Without You’, ‘Caribbean Queen’
The Triple Brit Award nominee and platinum selling artist will be ‘Right Here’ in Bedford Park This Summer! Jess Glynne first came into the public prominence in 2014 as the vocalist on Clean Bandit’s Grammy Award winning and #1 hit
JUNE 2018 KEMPSTON CALLING —
‘Rather Be’; Glynne scored another number one earlier that same year on Route 94’s ‘My Love’. Pop sensation Jess Glynne has since become one of the biggest UK breakthrough acts of recent years. Her chart-topping debut album, I Cry When I Laugh – which includes the singles Right Here, Hold My Hand, Don’t Be So Hard on Yourself and Take Me Home – turned double platinum in the UK, making it the biggest selling debut album of 2015.
Lesley Garrett Proms headliner Bedford Park Sunday August 5
Bedford Park Proms takes place on Sunday 5th August in Bedford Park. The soloist this year will be none other than English soprano Lesley Garrett, this exquisite musician, broadcaster and media personality is the perfect fit for Bedford Park Proms. Lesley Garrett is known for her cross-over repertoire that stretches from Mozart to Meat Loaf via West End Musicals; reaching places that other opera stars can only dream of. A fantastic leading lady for Bedford’s 2018 Proms. Joining Lesley will be tenor Jeff Stewart, who enjoys a busy world-wide career and his dramatic tenor voice is much in
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demand, both in opera and on the concert platform. With over 120 performers on stage this will be a magnificent performance as the guest soloists, a 70 piece choir and the London Gala orchestra, conducted by Stephen Bell take to the stage for performances including Handel’s Zadok The Priest, Bizet’s Habanera, Verdi’s Grand March (Aida) and Grieg’s In the Hall of the Mountain King. The musical celebration will culminate with rousing favourites for flag-waving and singing along, including Rule Britannia and Land of Hope & Glory, as thousands of lasers and fireworks light up the sky. www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk
André Rieu 2018 Maastricht Concert Saturday 28 July, 7.00pm | Sunday 29 July, 3.00PM Set against the stunning medieval backdrop of the town square in André’s Dutch hometown, the spectacular Maastricht concert features the maestro in his element, along with his 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra, sopranos, tenors and very special guests.
Box office: 01234 362337 wWw.quarrytheatre.Org.uk The Quarry Theatre at St Luke’s is part of Bedford School, which is part of The Harpur Trust
30 — KEMPSTON CALLING
JULY 2018
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com BEDFORD FOLK DAnCE CLUB
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BEDFORD RSPB LOCAL GROUP Thursday 19th July
COUNTRY AND FOLK DANCE CLUB
Thursday evenings 8pm – 10pm Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford mK41 8EB Its good fun for only £2 including refreshments no partner required. Ron Law 01234 825574 www.bedfordfolkdanceclub.com
EVENING WALK
The lodge, Sandy meet at 7 pm in the car park. SG19 2dl
Everyone welcome.
Suitable for Experts and novices, RSPB membership not essential.
––––––––––––––––––––––– addiSON CENTRE KEmPSTON FuNd RaiSiNG
Reg. Charity no. 207076, more info www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford
––––––––––––––––––––––– JAZZ ON THE OUSE
Following the success of last year’s Jazz on the
Great Ouse Cruises the John Bunyan Boat Team are pleased to announce this year’s programme. The cruises are run in association with Olney
Jazz Club, Conscia Jazz and The Barns Hotel and feature top jazz musicians.
Thursday July 19th – Rachel & Friends,
Rachel Hickey (vocals) Bill meredith (piano) Nigel Emerton (double bass)
Thursday August 16th - September 21st – Ben Holder (violin) alan Haughton (piano) Tomas Pedersen (bass)
Thursday September 20th – Frank Griffith
Trio featuring Frank Griffith (sax/clarinet) alan Haughton (piano) – Tomas Pedersen (bass)
Thursday October 18th – Tom Syson Trio
featuring Tom Syson of Conscia Jazz on
trumpet with Edwin ireland (double bass) Jacky Naylor (keyboards)
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SPONSORED ‘BIKE ‘N HIKE’ A GREAT DAY OUT
Saturday, 8 September, 10am- 6pm. Cycle, walk or drive to beautiful open churches in Bedford, Kempston and surrounding villages. In aid of Beds and Herts Historic Churches Trust
To join in, contact the Area Organiser, Alan Colley 07761 545705, colley64@yahoo.co.uk
See http://www.b-n-h.co.uk/ and www.bedshertshct.org.uk/bikenhike.html
––––––––––––––––––––––––– ST. PAUL’S CHURCH, BEDFORD
FREE LUNCHTIME CONCERT every Tuesday 1.10.p.m. - 1.50.p.m.
Come and listen to talent musicians from the Royal Academy and the
Royal College in this beautiful church. The church cafe opens at midday.
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TEA DANCE
––––––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORDSHIRE FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY Interested in Family History? Then come along to the next monthly talk on
‘BEDFORD’S OLD INDUSTRIES’ by David Fowler
7.15pm Friday 13th July 2018 Drama Hall, Mark Rutherford School Wentworth Drive, Bedford MK41 8PX Members free, visitors £1. www.bfhs.org.uk
––––––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON AND DISTRICT MODEL RAILWAY SOCIETY Wednesdays from 7.30pm-10.00pm at Kempston East methodist Church new members welcome For further details contact Brian Woodcock on 07795251988 or brianwoodcock@btinternet.com
––––––––––––––––––––––– SUMMER CONCERT U3A Harmony are proud to present their summer repertoire in an afternoon of musical entertainment. FREE OF CHARGE Raffle, refreshments (nominal charges) and a ‘Show-tunes Singalong’ complete the fun 21st July 2018 - 3pm St marks, Calder Rise Brickhill mK41 7uy
––––––––––––––––––––––– BINGO Kempston Hammers Club (Cutler) Fun, friendly bingo with Eyes down at 8pm 01234 853262 Always the last Wednesday of the month with the exception of April and December.. 2nd May BIG Spring Bingo - tickets in advance
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BEDFORD ORGAN & KEYBOARD CLUB THE ADDISON CENTRE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
PRESENT NEWCOMER TO BOKC
STEVE CLARK IN CONCERT WEDS 25 JULY 7.30 – 10.00pm TEA, COFFEE/BAR/RAFFLE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Members £5 PAY AT Non-Members £6 DOOR –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Contact: 01234 344423 www/Organfax/clubs/Bedford
mONday 23Rd July 2018 2.00PM TO 4.30PM £3.00 (InCL CUPPA) TEL: 01234 851877 OR 01234 340997
––––––––––––––––––––––– We are a (non-profit making) Toddler Group who meet at Centenary Hall, 104 Bedford Road, Kempston on Tuesday from 1.00 pm to 2.30 pm (term time only) We have a large range of toys and activities for the children to enjoy, where they can learn to share and socialise We provide refreshments for both child and carer. Contact: Debbie on 07975 –772-058 or Suzanne on 01234-857467.
3T’S TODDLER GROUP
––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 or Frances Leonard on 01234 852480
––––––––––––––––––––––– WORLD SHIP SOCIETY Kempston Constitution Club 196A Bedford Road, Kempston
POPPY WALK FOR HONOUR 2018
Calling families, dog walkers and ramblers! Get walking and raise funds for The Royal British Legion, Bedfordshire’s Poppy Walk for Honour, The Poppy Walk returns to commemorate the end of the First World War and to say thank you to the First World War generation- all who served, sacrificed and changed our world.
Come to Bedford Priory Country Park in Bedford, Barkers lane, Bedford mK41 9SH on Sunday 12th august, 2018. Join the Poppy Walk Squad and be part of the fun! We will be gathering at Visitor Centre at Priory Country Park Bedford from 11.00am to embark upon a choice of two routes, 2km, which is wheel chair and push chair friendly or 10km for those that really want to stretch their legs. Stroll around some of the areas most interesting sites.
As well as the walk there will be live music and activities with refreshments available at the Cloverdale Retreat-the Parks Café. A wonderful day out for the whole family to enjoy while raising funds for our wounded, injured, sick members of our Armed Forces and their families. Why not come and join us? bedspoppywalkforhonour.co.uk or upon arrival on the day
––––––––––––––––––––––– BL ACK CRICKET KIDS CLUB Great for aspiring animal keepers, entomologists and herpetologists.
First Wednesday of every month in Shortstown Village Hall, Southcote, Shortstown, Bedford, mK42 0Ql.
Fun, educational and entertaining sessions for children aged 5 - 13 who love animals, pets and wildlife. Meet a range of animals from around the world from reptiles, invertebrates, mammals, birds, amphibians and fish, learn to look after them and handle them correctly.
Children with SEnD are warmly welcomed and sessions are differentiated to meet individual needs. Sessions are £5 per child (siblings £3). Registration is required.
www.blackcricket.co.uk/kidsclubwww.facebook.com/blackcricketkidsclub Email: kidsclub@blackcricket.co.uk
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BEDFORD BRANCH 3rd WEDnESDAY in the month
18 July 2018 Ian Wells making a welcome return for his 23rd visit to the Branch with his presentation
“LONDON DOCKS PART 1 – 1972”
15 august 2018 Alan Moorhouse giving his latest presentation on
LINERS
for a presentation from another selection of the excellent slides taken by Captain Eric askew. Telephone: 01234 352014
––––––––––––––––––––––– 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
TIDDLYWINKS TODDLER PL AYGROUP
meeting at Kempston Hammers Sports & Social Club every Thursday 9.30 till 11.00am school term time only All children welcome from new born to preschool age
Large range of toys,activities and a craft table. Refreshments supplied for both children and carers. non profit making playgroup
If your require further information just come along or ring Ruth on 01234 854657
––––––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON GARDENS ASSOCIATION If you are interested gardening why not come along to our meetings. new members and visitors welcome.
We meet the second Wednesday of most months of the year in All Saints Church Hall, Cemetery Road Kempston. We have speakers and demonstrations covering every aspect of gardening from Window Boxes to Allotments and outings are also arranged throughout the year.
For further information contact Trevor on 01234 856040 or Marian on 01234 855288
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TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com Strawberries and cream, a glass of Pimms, a picnic at the seaside and a leisurely barbecue are the flavours we associate with a warm, summer afternoon of rest and relaxation. Bedford Brass invite you to join them for a ‘Taste of Summer’ concert at ‘St. Edmunds and St. James Church’, Blunham at 3pm on Sunday 8th July, where the music will be sizzling hot just like the weather.
The Band formed in 1988, has been entertaining local people with a blend of traditional, contemporary and modern music for almost 30 years.
Band Member Jenny Gellatly said, ‘In this concert, we have a musical picnic basket full of tasty treats. We hope to see you there.’
Ticket (£5.00) are available at the door and for a small donation you can treat yourself to a further taste of summer with a strawberry cream tea during the interval.
Afternoon Strawberry Cream Tea
Bedford Brass – A Taste of Summer
JULY 2018 KEMPSTON CALLING —
BUY ONE GET ONE FREE ONLY WITH THIS VOUCHER – normally £4.95 Fruit Scone, Clotted Cream, Stawberry Jam, Fresh Strawberries, Pot of Tea
www.miltonernestgardencentre.co.uk
Offer ends July 31, 2018
Tel: 01234 823033
MILTON ERNEST GARDEN CENTRE Radwell Road (just off the A6) Milton Ernest MK44 1SH
COUNTRY DAYS SUMMER HOLIDAY COURSES Our team of fully qualified staff provide a fun and educational timetable for young people aged 7 – 11yrs
• • • •
ART SCIENCE SPORT & LEADERSHIP BUSHCRAFT
Course 1: Tuesday w 14th & Wednesday 15th August Course 2: Thursday 16th & Friday 17th August COURSE DATES:
Come and join us for a breath of fresh air…
Time: 9.15am – 15.45pm each day Our Venue is a six-acre privately owned nature reserve in Felmersham FEE: £15.00 Transport included with pick up points in Kempston and Milton Ernest FREE PLACES For entrants who receive free school meals or pupil premium *Please note these courses repeat so choose one course only when booking
IT IS EASY TO BOOK contact us now:
Tel: 07599 336532 Web: www.countrydays.net Email: info@countrydays.net
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32 — KEMPSTON CALLING
JULY 2018
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
KEM PSTON T O W N CO U N CI L
WEEKEND/RELIEF
Caretaker required for Centenary Hall and Council Offices Working alternate weekends covering cleaning/security duties for any bookings from Friday evening to Sunday evening. Must also be available to cover any annual/sick leave during weekdays and evenings and may need to cover some additional weekends. Due to irregular working hours and split shifts, this post ideally suits a Kempston resident. Some lifting and use of machinery required, training for which will be given. Pay:
£8.75 per hour weekdays/evenings £13.13 per hour weekends and bank holidays
Application forms/further information, contact: kempstoncouncil@btconnect.com or Tel: 01234 851005 Closing Date: Friday 27th July 2018
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 KEMPSTOn CALLInG is an independent monthly magazine with no affiliation to any other organisation. © 2018 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