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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 MEETINGS TAKING PLACE IN JUNE/JULY
PLANNING COMMITTEE … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …14 June at 6.30pm TOWN COUNCIL … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …14 June at 7.30pm PLANNING COMMITTEE … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …12 July at 6.30pm KEMPSTON TOWN COUNCIL … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …12 July at 7.30pm COMMUNITY SAFETY FORUM … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …19 July at 6.30pm All meetings held at Kempston Town Council. We want you to come to our Town Council meetings.
All Change The last meeting of Kempston Town Council was the Annual Meeting when the Mayor and other positions were appointed. Councillor Mohammed Masud handed over the Mayoral chain to Councillor Carl Meader who will hold the office for the coming year. The Mayor is able to choose charities that will benefit from any fundraising events held during the year. Councillor Masud chose Road Victims Trust who received a cheque for £1250 which was raised during his term of office.
This time the new ‘Welcome to Kempston’ signs will also be The flower troughs throughout planted. If anyone who lives Kempston have been very near to any of the areas where colourful. Soon they will be there are troughs or signs and replanted with seasonal flowers. they are able to water the plants Hopefully they will again provide regularly can they please let the a splash of brightness along the office know (tel.851005). The roads. The cost for them is paid community’s help will be much by Kempston Town Council. appreciated!
Flower Power
Councillor Meader has decided to also support Road Victims Trust and Keech Cottage. He would welcome support from the Kempston Community at any events that are organised by Kempston Town Council to raise funds for these very worthwhile charities. Carl would very much like to hear from any community groups, schools or businesses in Kempston if they would like him to visit or support any functions. Please contact the Council office on 851005 if this is something you are interested in. Councillor James Valentine will add support to Carl by being the Deputy Mayor.
HAVE YOU GOT A PROBLEM? HIT A BRICK WALL?
Kempston Town Council is the most local body in government and we can point people in the right direction for help with a problem. Contact your local councillor, drop in at a surgery or ring the office if you need help!
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KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016 — 3
Cross-party team to boost frontline policing
Bedfordshire’s new PCC Kathryn holloway signed her oath of impartiality on Monday May 16 as she brought in a start-up team to help her boost frontline police from across politics in the county.
At the Force’s Kempston HQ, accompanied by Assistant Chief Constable Mike Colbourne, Kathryn pledged to “serve all the people of Bedfordshire in the office of Police and Crime Commissioner,” and to “act with integrity and diligence in my role.”
Afterwards she said: “Being a Commissioner for all and demonstrating impartiality from the very outset is hugely important to me. All that matters is getting the best people, with the necessary skills, to help me support the Chief Constable to provide the best possible policing in Bedfordshire. I hope it reassures the public that I am bringing in a team which promises to deliver precisely this irrespective of their past political allegiances.” Kathryn’s first project as Commissioner, as promised in her election manifesto, is Project Boost the Frontline. The project aims to release as many of Bedfordshire’s existing police as possible from desk duties and provide support back into full service
for those on restricted duties, together with provision to help boost the morale of frontline officers. Delivering the project, will be two short-term interim specialists on 100-day maximum contracts – John Guthrie, a highly experienced HR and Recruitment advisor who once stood as Mayor of Bedford for the Conservatives, and Simon Bullock, a former Deputy Chief of Staff within the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner under the former Labour PCC, who has spent the interim assessing Police and Crime Commissioners and best practice among the 43 police forces of England and Wales for the organisation CoPacc which compares PCCs.
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KEMPSTON CALLING is an independent monthly magazine with no affiliation to any other organisation. © 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
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Kempston Fun Day Bank Holiday Saturday 27 August 2016 12 noon-5pm Addison Howard Park, Kempston, MK42 8PN
This popular event has been running for many years and aims to provide fun and entertainment for families in Kempston, Bedford.
The main entertainment for 2016 will be presented by “The Wild Bunch” who will perform Wild West shows, with a background of some static displays. Profits will primarily support local needy people and organisations in the Kempston & Bedford areas; plus other local charities supported by Bedford Lions Club several charity and trade stalls plus children’s rides, have already confirmed attendance, There will also be ice cream and _buffet stalls for more information about the events programme, please refer to our main web site: bedfordlions. org.uk, followed by the using the Kempston fun day tab. As time passes by, commencing early June, we intend to keep the site updated
KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016 — 5
Construction milestone reached
BOuyGuES Development, the property development company, its joint venture partner Coplan Estates and main contractor Bouygues uK today held an event to mark construction progress at Riverside North, their £36 million (GDV) mixed-use leisure led town centre regeneration project in central Bedford. The event, which celebrated the development reaching its full structural height, was attended by Mayor of Bedford Dave Hodgson, as well as Philip Simpkins, Chief Executive of Bedford Borough Council, and senior representatives of Bouygues Development, Coplan Estates and Bouygues uK. Riverside North is situated on the North bank of the River Great Ouse, directly south of Bedford’s L-R - Mikel Berrebi, Regional Managing Director Bouygues UK; Mayor of commercial centre and to the west Bedford Borough Dave Hodgson; Axel Boutrolle, Regional Director Bouygues of the historic St Paul’s Square. Development.
6 — KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016
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Lions roar
Tony Pyner President of Bedford Lions Club presented a cheque for £1000 to ron forster Chair of Bedford Guild house. The money was raised at our recent Grand National race night, held at Kempston indoor Bowls Club. several members of the two clubs are shown in the photograph.
EU Facts from Fuller
GOVERNMENT & Politics is a key subject among the 30+ A Levels taught by experts at The Bedford Sixth Form. No one is more expert in the subject than MP Richard Fuller, Conservative MP and currently part of the ‘Brexit’ camp in the Eu debate. At the personal invitation of a group of students, Richard visited The Bedford Sixth Form on Monday April 25th to talk those who will be first time voters at the Eu Referendum on June 23rd. Assistant Head Pauline Kendall said: “Having actual politicians in the classroom bring studies to life. We have had representatives from all parties here for debates and discussions at different times, which our students really enjoy.”
Subjects on offer at A Level at the 16+ only Sixth Form include many not available at smaller school sixth forms. These include Computer Science, Drama, Films Studies, Government & Politics, German, Spanish and Textiles The Bedford Sixth Form was the highest performing ‘state sixth form’ in Bedford Borough and Central Bedfordshire for students achieving three or more A-Levels. Details on how to apply on bedfordsixth form.ac.uk It was also only one of two providers out of nine to add ‘academic value’ at A-Levels in Bedford Borough. Said Richard Fuller MP, a member of the House of Commons Business Innovation and Skills Committee: “It is a pleasure to be challenged in debate by the bright minds of tomorrow’s university students.”
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KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016 — 7
New business has opened up on the High Street
ALySEMA Beauty forms part of what was once just a florists but is now Greycourt Events. Alysema Beauty is owned and run by Emma Abbey, wife and mother of two children, who has been a PE teacher for 11 years. Emma has decided to follow up a passion of hers, to help brides-to-be look and feel their best on their wedding day. She left the teaching profession and all its pressure and long hours to follow her dream. Emma now runs her own business, specialising in make-up artistry, hair styling and sunless tanning. She has a regular beauty slot in County Wedding Magazine using her expert knowledge to answers questions from brides-to-be in preparation for their big day, and has also worked as a make-up artist on high profile TV shows and events such as National Television Awards, Miss England, Miss world Live show, Celebrity Charity events, and London Fashion Week. Emma said: “I am delighted to take the next steps to have the opportunity to grow and build my business from a new location situated in Bedford Rd, Kempston. After
the success of our launch evening April 7th alongside Greycourt Events I am excited to be able to offer my services to new clients as well as to existing clients from my new studio space which has a modern, contemporary décor and feel. I am looking forward to collaborating
with some amazing local wedding suppliers and I feel confident our new venture as a one stop shop for a variety of events will be a huge success. “Next month we are excited to be offering an extensive list of beauty treatments to add to our services at
the studio, ranging from waxing, facials, massage and Reiki. “Future plans are to eventually set up my own teaching academy. using my teaching experience to plan and deliver my own courses would be my ultimate goal and one that I’m striving towards.”
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Moves to secure our hospital
BEDFORD Borough Council is leading the fight to save vital services at Bedford Hospital. The Council has commissioned specialist work to help secure a sustainable future for the hospital, retaining the key services on which so many Borough residents depend. The Council is working with Bedford Hospital and Bedfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group and intends to show decision-makers that the hospital can retain key services. The latest Healthcare Review of Bedford and Milton Keynes Hospitals could result in Bedford Hospital losing vital services such as A&E, maternity and paediatrics despite the Borough’s grow-
ing and ageing population. This has been causing worry and uncertainty amongst hospital staff and patients. The Council’s support for the hospital is set down in a joint statement by the Mayor and Council Group Leaders which explains: “This is a united decision from all political parties at Bedford Borough Council, with the Elected Mayor and all Group Leaders in agreement that this is necessary to protect our Hospital and its services. Following consultation with Bedford Hospital, the Council is working with PricewaterhouseCoopers to help develop a plan 10/05/2016 for a better and08:50 more secure future for the hospital.
Remembering those that died on the Somme
Free LOVE BEDFORD DAY SUNDAY 24th July
, celebrating A day of fun for all the family lture in Bedford. History, Heritage, and Cu From 11am – 5pm Harpur Square will be packed with activities, shows, street entertainment and more – there's just so much to get involved in.
tre Watch the new thea of gs in ik V e production, Th n stage. Bedford, on the mai
Design a of Arms new Coat our, BIG for Bedford in History D raw.
Meet some of our History, Heritage and Cultural providers.
Listen to the d. Scottish Pipe Ban
Learn circu how to juggs skills or FREE work le in our shops.
...and lots more. FREE all day parking in all Council owned car parks and Harpur Centre on Sundays.
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www.lovebedford.co.uk | www.lovebedfordoffers.co.uk | 01234 404500 Artists impression of event.
THE Royal British Legion is to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme with an ‘honour walk’ in Bedford on Saturday July 9. The Legion is commemorating the centenary of the Battle of the Somme, one of the principal battles of the First World War which took place in France from 1 July until 18 November 1916. The Battle of the Somme was fought at such terrible cost that it has come to symbolise the tragic futility of the First World War. Its first day of conflict remains the bloodiest day in the history of the British Army and it was felt deeply at home, in particular in those towns and villages which had raised Pals battalions and suffered horrible losses. The 100th anniversary of the Somme provides an opportunity to commemorate the service and sacrifice of those who lost their lives in the battle, to reflect upon the human cost of conflict and to have hope for a more peaceful world. The walk will take place at Priory Country Park, Bedford, on July 9, beginning at 10.30am. Those wishing to participate are asked to meet at the Visitor Centre. People can choose between a 2km or 10km walk. There is disabled access, parking, refreshments and toilets on site, accompanied dogs are welcome. Local vice-chairman of the Royal Engineers Association, Terry Darlow, said: “Join us in Priory Country Park Bedford, home of our special Bedford Honour Walk. Come along and you will be helping raise much needed funds for our wounded, injured and sick Armed Forces personnel and their families past and present. With two great walk lengths to choose from. There’s a whole lot of fun to discover along the way.” For information: Michael Lewis, Community Fund raiser, Royal British Legion. Mob: 07768 252906. E: MLewis@britishlegion.org.uk
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KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016 — 9
10 — KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016
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Engineering career prospects
ADVANCES in modern engineering are mirrored at Bedford College and demonstrated by successful apprenticeship partnerships with leading companies. young people are being prepared for the new world of work with a combination of quality employment experiences and college class and practical studies. Among the companies looking for apprentices were: Wady’s electrical, who have been in Bedford for more than 50 years Airlander hybrid Vehicles who have been in the national news and have featured College apprentices on their company film. edmundson electrical in Hudson Road are one of a nation-wide organi-
sation offering a wide range of careers. Bourns of Bedford Heights has been a leading global supplier of high quality electronic components. Axis electronics, also of Bedford Heights, works with aerospace, oil and gas, defence and other industries. Lockheed Martin is an international organisation in Ampthill and apprentices at Bedford College. Acuigen an innovative market research company at the Innovation Centre at Cranfield, university Way. Vauxhall, Luton works closely with the College with apprentices. Anyone interested in careers with the biggest and best employers should visit www.bedford.ac.uk
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FROM LATVIA TO LONDON Model and dancer Anastasija Kanina is off to the top London Studio Centre after training at Bedford College for two years. Having completed Dance at Level 3, including working with Laban-trained choreographer Matthew-Jay Pratt, founder of the Yorkshire Academy of Creative Arts & Dance, Ana, aged 23, will now be taking up her place on a professional dance course in London. Ana, who lives in Luton, hopes to complete her technical training and eventually become a dance teacher.
Adrienne Jessop U. Bristol Alison Brokenshire U. Bristol Uma Madhav U. Cardiff Hema Mistry U. London
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KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016 — 11
Skills Minister applauds town’s innovation
BEDFORD is combatting the digital skills ship with an international innovator. We have shortage with forward-thinking companies and a local MP who is helping to put Bedford on the national skills stage which is win, win for advanced education providers. MP Richard Fuller invited Minister of State for Skills and Equalities Nick Boles MP to join a platform alongside MatsSoft, a local technology business which has recently established an innovation centre in Bedford with international civil engineers Mott MacDonald. Also on the panel were Ian Pryce CBE Principal and CEO of Bedford College and Toby Thompson, Director of Networked Learning at Cranfield university. Richard Fuller MP, is a member of the House of Commons Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) Committee who said: “The digital revolution means the whole way we work will be completely changed – we are lucky to be supported here in Bedford by two institutions: Bedford College and Cranfield university. The Minister outlined four initiatives which will act as cornerstones of a forward thinking skills plan. These include government changes in the approach to funding apprenticeships via a new levy and the introduction of an independent Institute for Apprenticeships that would allow businesses to control how apprenticeships are delivered. Ian Pryce talked about the need for ‘digital literacy’ across all age groups to support businesses and how the college was responding to that with 2,000 people going through computer courses at its High Street centre. Meanwhile World Class IT training with Higher or degree-level learning was delivered at the Cauldwell Street campus. Apprenticeships were the way to combine advanced level IT training with the real life experience young people needed to become valuable employees or entrepreneurs. MatsSoft has won global recognition for its Low-code technology which enables business to achieve digital transformation without needing coding skills. “This was a great opportunity to introduce people to the Low-code business-tailored technology we are now offering companies in partner-
business,” said Martin Scovell, CEO of MatsSoft, “Businesses that want to build new customerfacing apps fast face a huge barrier: the digital skills drought. It is estimated that from 20152017, demand for mobile app development services will grow at least five times faster than internal IT teams’ capacity to deliver them. In the uK, digital developer talent is so scarce it’s been added to the government’s Shortage Occupation Lists. “With so few skilled developers available, businesses need a new approach – and with Low‑code, they get it. MATS Low-code emphasises visual configuration, making it easy to use for people with few or no formal technical skills. “Business users with knowledge of Excel, MS Access or process mapping can very quickly start using MATS Low-code to design and develop working apps – rapidly expanding the internal developer pool without needing to find or hire digital talent.”
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12 — KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016
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Students show their creative skills
uPCyCLING raw talent into polished professionals is the mission of Bedford College. In Hair and Beauty, the evidence of this is presented every year at a fantastic show at the Bedford Corn Exchange. Full and part-time students and apprentices demonstrate their creative skills and on May 12th the theme was: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. From bin bag dresses, to old newspaper headdresses, birds and bees accessories to garden crowns, the range of talent showed students to be men and women for ALL seasons. Alongside the glamour was the Jagged Edge ‘crew collection’ of barbering cuts and stylish male make-overs. Ian Pryce CBE Principal and CEO of Bedford College told the audience of 100s: “Reports this week have shown our college is the biggest and best, tonight we have proven we are also the most beautiful.” The show was supported by a wide range of employers from across Bedfordshire including the BedfordBID which donated Love Bedford shopping vouchers as Are you looking for prizes. To learn more about arts and flexible and rewarding creative courses as an alternative part-time work? to school sixth form go to bedford.ac.uk
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Take life or work in a new direction
Discover a fascinating hobby or interest, develop skills to move on at work, or start training for a whole new career – however you’re looking to spend your spare time, turn it into time well spent with part-time study at Bedford College. Our new Part-time Course Guide is out now! Download your copy at www.bedford.ac.uk/parttime to find out about all our upcoming part-time courses
August 2016 – July 2017
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Study now, pay later with an Advanced Learner Loan If you’re aged 19 or over on the start date of your chosen course you can apply for a loan to cover the tuition fees for some of our courses. And with nothing to pay back until you’re earning over £21,000 per year, it’s a fantastic way to make part-time study more affordable. To find out more visit www.bedford.ac.uk/loans
Visit www.bedford.ac.uk/parttime or call 01234 291000 to find out more. *A Direct Debit instalments option is available for courses over £100. Please note a £20 charge applies if you choose to pay by instalments.
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14 — KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016
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Rock’n’Roll in Britain 1964-68 by Ken Broughton
RHyTHM and Blues or R & B as it is generally known originated in the uSA during the 1940s. It evolved from a combination of Negro Spirituals created by the African American slaves who worked in the cotton fields of the deep south of that country in the mid 1800s and then to European Folk Blues and Jazz Blues in the early years of the twentieth century, Country Blues and then just plain Blues music before it became R & B and then finally developing into Rock ‘n’ Roll in the mid 50s with first Bill Haley and then Elvis Presley leading the way. 1964 was the year Britain discovered the Blues. up until then very few American Blues musicians, all of them black, were heard of over here apart from Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley, John Lee Hooker, Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf. It was the Beatles and to a greater extent the Rolling Stones who popularised this brand of music in this country thereby opening the door for them to perform in Britain. It was at Bedford Granada on January 15th 1964 that I first saw the Rolling Stones along with the Ronettes a black American girl trio who were one of the first exponents of Phil Spectors ‘Wall of Sound’ created by Spector in his recording studio in Detroit uSA and whilst it wasn’t possible to create this fantastic ‘Wall of Sound’ on stage, the girls did manage to serve up a dynamic and exciting act which was much appreciated by the audience but it was The Stones most of us came to see with Mick Jagger, vocals and harmonica, Brian Jones, vocals, guitar and harmonica, Keith Richard, guitar, Bill Wyman, bass guitar and vocals and Charlie
Watts, drums. All great exponents of R & B, I have since seen them many times over the years and in 2016 they are still going strong, apart from Brian Jones who died in 1969 and Bill Wyman who retired in 1993. Bill is now 80 years of age. Ben E. King the former lead singer with the Drifters, a very popular American vocal group with worldwide hit records was here in February 25, in a show headlined by Gerry and the Pacemakers. King had the difficult task of preceding the Pacemakers but managed to cope very well especially when singing the Drifters classic ‘Stand by Me’ and his solo hit record ‘Spanish Harlem.’ Jimmy Tarbuck was the compere. R & B was by now taking a firm hold in Britain leaving Rock’n’ Roll in its wake with new British beat groups on the horizon, including Manfred Mann, the Animals, the Spencer Davis Group, the Who and the yardbirds who had a certain Eric Clapton in their line up and also Jimmy Page who later found fame with Led Zeppelin. All this presented the opportunity for several American Blues men to tour over here and amongst those who did included Jimmy Reed, Jimmy Witherspoon, Sonny Boy Williamson, Little Walter, John Lee Hooker, Howling’ Wolf and Chuck Berry. Chuck Berry, one of the great Rock ‘n’ Rollers flew into London on May 9 for his first British tour. I went with one of my mates Vic Kirk, to see his show at Hammersmith Odeon the following day and what a show it was. With R & B now firmly established in this country and although still singing his songs of a decade earlier, Chuck Berry was no longer known simply as a Rock ‘n’ Roller but also as the ‘King of Rhythmn and Blues’ with a succession of British groups – Beatles, Stones, yardbirds etc. all performing and recording his music and now here he was in person for us all to see perform. Wearing a dark grey suit and backed by Kingsize Taylor and the Dominoes, he worked his way through ‘School Day’ ‘Johnny B Goode’ ‘Sweet Little Sixteen’ and ‘Memphis Tennessee’ to name just a few, mesmerising his audience with his brilliant guitar work as he prowled around the stage and they became ecstatic as he crouched low to perform his famous duck walk across the stage. Brilliant! Carl Perkins, who wrote and recorded ‘Blue Suede Shoes’ one of the iconic Rock ‘n’ Roll songs, was on this show as were the Swinging Blue Jeans, the Nashville Teens and the Animals, whose soon to be released ‘House of the Rising Sun’ became a smash hit both here and Stateside where they became very popular with regular TV appearances including one with World
Part 5 continued from last month
Heavyweight Champion, Cassius Clay, before he changed his name to Muhammad Ali. The Marquee Club was located in London’s Soho area and was the home of R & B in this country with Cyril Davis and Alexis Korner, the founding fathers of British R & B at the helm. Many of the top American Bluesmen performed here and it was a breeding ground for a new generation of groups such as the Stones, yardbirds, John Mayals Blues breakers, the Who and solo performers such as Long John Balder, Road Stewart and David Bowie. The Marquee Club put together a nationwide tour under the heading of the Marquee Show which came to Bedford Granada on October 13 with a line up of the Scaffold, Mark Leeman 5, Paul and Barry Ryan, the yardbirds featuring Eric Clapton, the Vagabonds, Goldie Hawn, Manfred Mann and Gary Farr and the T Bones whose father, former British Heavyweight Champion, Tommy Farr went 15 rounds with with World Heavyweight Champion Joe Louis in yankee Stadium, New york in 1937. ‘Little Miss Dynamite’ Brenda Lee came here on December 8. She was still only 19 and had her first hit record at 14 with ‘Let’s Jump the Broomstick.’ She sang this and her other hits including ‘Emotions’ ‘Dum Dum’ ‘All Alone’ ‘I’m Sorry’ and ‘As usual.’ Johnny Kidd and the Pirates, Marty Wilde and Wayne Fontana and the Mindbenders were the supporting acts on the show. To be continued next month.
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CVS in the swim
MEMBERS of the ‘Community & Voluntary Service Splash’ swimathon team were delighted to present Tibbs Dementia Foundation with a cheque for £617.75 recently – the charity of their choice for funds raised at the Rotary Club of Bedford swimathon event towards the end of last year. Helen Hall, Jane Owen and David Whitmore joined the Paddlers 4 Memory swimmers at Kempston Pool for one of their sessions before handing over the cheque to Sarah Russell, the Chief Executive Director of Tibbs Dementia Foundation. Reflecting on the fundraising event and the day’s session, Helen, who brought the team together after promoting the event on the Voluntaryworks website last year, said: “It has been a privilege to join
the swimmers today and see firsthand just how beneficial groups such as Paddlers 4 memory are to those affected by dementia. We are delighted to have been able to help fund their activities this year. “From planning, to taking part and now participating in the group, the team – drawn from the different projects within Community Voluntary Service (CVS) – has engaged first hand and at a grassroots level, in the different aspects of their charities’ work. It has been a rewarding experience.” CVS is strengthening local social action groups through enabling connections, promoting volunteering, advising on fundraising and governance and providing services and support to charities and social action groups in Bedfordshire.
KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016 — 15
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Kempston come from behind to take the win by Martin John
IN A tough match Kempston take the win and the league! In the final league match of the season, first place Kempston travelled north to second place Stewarts and Lloyds 3rd XV (S&Ls). There had been a buzz all week building towards this title deciding match. With numerous messages of support from past players and the wider rugby family in Bedford nerves were evident before kick off. The home side were able to call on their first and second team squads to face Kempston as many regular third team players were with the vets. Kemspton started with a bang, stealing the ball from the kick off and a couple of barnstorming runs gave Alistair McMullen the chance to burst through carrying players with him as he swan dived over the line under the posts. Coaches Martin John and Tommy Trinder hadn’t even managed to take up their customary position behind the posts before Rob Campbell had added the extras. 0-7 Soon after Kempston were having to make a change as Tom Jackson limped off after twisting his ankle. What followed was the biggest test of the season so far for Kempston as S&Ls pounded the away side’s line. Some solid defence led by McMullen and Joe James up front and centre partnership Connor Bice and
Gareth Arzu in the back line. It took 20 minutes for the home side to eventually touch down. After a couple of defensive penalties going in favour of S&Ls they managed to wriggle over out wide, but failed to make the conversion. 5-7 Kempston were on the defensive again and struggled to get out of their own half. More big hits from the away side,frustration in not adding more points from S&Ls and a couple of interesting calls from the official, things threatened to boil over. Pressure from S&Ls finally told, with some smart running off the back of rucks led to try closer to the posts. 10-7 Kempston rallied and did not allow their heads to drop and continued to let the home side know they were still in a game, typified by a strong run by Kane Simmons taking at least four players to bring him down. half Time: 10-7 The second half started in the same vane as much of the first, with pressure from the home side. It took a good 20 minutes for more points to come. With Ks under pressure, it was a tackle and turnover from prop Elliot Fairhead giving Kempston possession. A half break in midfield and Ollie Peters was put through to stretch the defence and slide over under the posts from nearly 50 metres. Campbell slotted the conversion putting Kempston back in the lead. 10-14 S&Ls were still confident they could take the points
and were looking to run from everywhere. This proved their downfall when Kempston won the ball back and created an overlap. Campbell and Arzu combined to get the ball to Ross McMullen who beat a couple of defenders with pace, another with brut force and the last man with a cheeky step inside. As Kempston’s travelling support rose to their feet and players swamped R.McMullen as victory was in sight. 15 metres from touch, Campbell pushed the conversion inches wide. 10-19 Kempston were on the back foot for the remainder of the match and what looked like a certain try for S&Ls was pulled back as the referee couldn’t see the grounding. It would have been a consolation as another attack was thwarted by some stern defence, in particular from A.McMullen, who in the final play took a knock to the head but was able to walk off under his own steam, as the referee blew for full time giving Kempston an unassailable lead in the Estrella Damm Merit league. full Time: 10-19 T: A McMullen, O Peters, R McMullen, C: R Campbell (x2) Man of the Match: Alistair McMullen, scored a try, stole and turned over numerous times, ferocious in defence. Honourable mention: Elliot Fairhhead, who turned over some crucial ball and was solid in the scrums.
End of season round up and a look to the future
KEMPSTON RFC held their AGM at Cutler Hammerat the end of April. There was a very good turnout with 19
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The meeting kicked off with annuals reports from Jon Billington (Chairman), Bob Burnage (Treasurer) delivered by Jon Billington, Martin John and Tom Trinder (Coaching team) and the Captain and Vice-Captain for the for the 2015/16 season Leon Harvey and Rich Lovesy. Each report was full of positives and a true reflection of how far the club has come in the last 18 months where it nearly folded. Financially the club is healthy and is looking for ways to further improve this situation, including fund raising and sponsorship deals for individuals and the club as a whole. It was unanimously agreed to increase the membership fees which will mean the club can offer a better package in terms of kit and extras to players for the new season. On the pitch a very healthy: P. 24 W. 17 L. 7 (including a further four wins by
walkover). Four of those defats came in the first six matches and the other three were against stronger teams, which again highlights the improvement made over the year, culminating in taking the Estrella Damm Merit League title. Throughout the year the club has increased its player base, as word has spread about the atmosphere and playing style. With some more work and positive coverage it is hoped this continues to be the case. As is customary at the AGM club positions are nominated and voted for. Club chairman Jon Billington said: “The future of Kempston is looking very bright. The younger members of the club are keen to get more involved and move the club on. “It’s a pleasure to around this group of guys and for the first time in a while we have a clear path of where we are heading.
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KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016 — 17
Brigade’s national success in Northern Ireland
OVER the weekend of 6th/8th May 1st Kempston B.B. table tennis team journeyed to Northern Ireland for the National Table Tennis finals. They stayed over the weekend in a Premier Inn in Lisburn giving them easy access to North Belfast where the finals were played at the Glenburn Methodist Church. Many thanks go to our friends from the Churches in Kempston who raised the funds to pay for the boys flights and accommodation. The Officers, coaches and friends paid there own way. Since last October the team (Edward (Ed) Simms, Oliver (Ollie) H ors w ell and S as ha ( S as ) Ambepitiya) had been competing with the other companies in England and Wales for the right to represent England in the national finals. After several rounds and travelling to all parts of the country they finally qualified in late March as one of the top two unbeaten sides. The other qualifiers from England were 1st Lanchester (Durham). The other finalists were 1st Cookstown and 1st Ballyclare from Northern Ireland and 2nd Port Glasgow and 1st Grangemouth from Scotland. The finals took place at the Table Tennis Hall next to the Church. The Opening Ceremony was conducted by District President. After devotions, the anthems were played and each boy was named and welcomed. Then the boys warmed up with the tournament starting at 10.15am. Kempston were drawn in a group with Cookstown and Port Glasgow with the other group being Lanchester, Grangemouth and Ballyclare. Both groups started at the same time with six tables available so that a complete round of three games were played enabling the whole nine games in the match to be completed in three sessions. Kempston played Cookstown first and won 9-0. A convincing victory with Sas (who only joined BB just over a year ago and this was his first full year of table tennis) performing very well. We then played Port Glasgow (previous winners) and won 8-1. Ed and Ollie were continuing to prove what good players they are and Sas managed to win two of his games. The last game in our group proved to be a win for Port Glasgow over Cookstown. This meant that we qualified as winners of our group and Port Glasgow as runners up. In the other group, the game between Lanchester and Grangemouth (the holders) proved vital as Grangemouth won 5-4 in a very tight competitive game. Both
then defeated Ballyclare easily, leaving Grangemouth the group winners and Lanchester as runners up. We then took a break before the final stages. The semi finals took place at the same time each occupying three tables. Grangemouth won comfortably over Port Glasgow but our game was a very competitive affair. Ed was drawn to play first against the Lanchester’s top player who is in the England rankings. This was Ed’s first hard game and so it proved as he went 2-0 down early in the game. The third set saw him come back from a deficit to win 12 -10, he then took the fourth 11-7 before playing the game of the tournament to win the fifth and deciding leg 12-10. The spectators showed their appreciation by a long round of applause for the best game seen in the finals for some time. Ollie played extremely well to take his game but Sas, despite fighting hard went down in his. The score was 2-1. In the second round Ed won comfortably, Sas lost another tight game and Ollie nearly took the highly rated Lanchester boy. The score was 3-3.In the last round Ed comfortably won, Sas lost to his opponent, but Ollie came through with the decisive win to give us a 5-4 victory and a place in the final. The play offs for 5th/6th was won by Ballyclare over Cookstown. The 3rd/4th play off was won by Lanchester over Port Glasgow. So to the final. Grangemouth had already shown their class and with the hard fought game against Lanchester, Kempston had shown what a team they were. Expectations were high in the hall and so it proved to be. The hard games in
the semi final had sharpened both Ed’s and Ollie’s games. Sas showed how fast he was learning and each round was competitive. Ed and Ollie overcome their opposition in hard won games. Sas found it more difficult. 2-1 after one round. In the second round both Ollie and Ed showed real class to take their games but as much as Sas tried, victory eluded him. 4-2 with a round to go. Once again Sas tried but victory was not to be. Victory and the match was rightfully won by Ed in fantastic form but another great game
was developing between Ollie and the Scottish number one. It saw Ollie on top form taking the win to give a final score of 6-3. Kempston had won. Ed finished his final year as a boy with an unbeaten run of three years. Nobody could remember such a performance. Ollie showed what a class player he is going to be and Sas, a new find and a perhaps another class player of the future. Kempston Methodists and the Brigades can be so proud of our team. Many of those watching and members of the other teams came up to our boys and congratulated them not only on their talent, but also on their fighting qualities and their sportsmanship. Alan Thompson who (as with all Brigade Officers) voluntarily gives of his time week in and week out should be commended for his coaching and dedication to Brigade and all the boys he has encouraged to play the game. 55 years ago, Pete Smith, Tom Titmas and Cliff Beal entered this competition. The Company had never won it before. Dedication, enthusiasm and a Christian spirit can work wonders and earns the reputation that our Brigades are recognised for. If you want to join the Girls or Boys Brigades and enjoy all the opportunities that they offer to young people between the ages of 5 to 18, then call Peter Smith on 01234 306432 now.
18 — KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016
Garden notes by Richard Callaghan
HOPEFuLLy the frosts are now a thing of the past. Almost everything is in and most of it is growing! What we need most of all is some consistent sunshine to get things growing and to kill of the weeds when we hoe them. Hand weeding is so time consuming but when I have hoed the rain has pushed them back into the ground and they have carried on as if nothing had happened. I have arrived at that time in the year when I find that I have run out of space on the allotment. Every year I say that I will grow less and grow better but sadly neither ever seems to happen. I blame the catalogues and those well meaning folks who say: “I grew so and so and it was really good, I’ve got some spare, do you want to try it?” And human nature being what it is we seldom say no, we always try to find room for it. We also overestimate what we will need or eat. Still we don’t go hungry. My new asparagus plants arrived and were duly planted, and after a couple of anxious weeks of waiting they poked their purple noses up. I shall not worry about the Midsummer’s day cut off point but
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will keep cutting while there is something to cut as the bed will be dug up at the end of the year. Last November I sowed three rows of Aquadulce broad beans and two rows of field beans to see how they compared. Almost half of the Aquadulce failed to make it through the winter but the ones that did are looking good with lots of flowers and some beans set already. The field beans all survived the winter and are bigger and stronger and have nearly three times as much flower. They have not set beans yet but if we have a succession we will be happy as catering tends to get a little stressed when there is a glut of produce all needing dealing with at once. On the subject of head of catering , the hospital has told her not to darken their door for three months, so that is good news. No excuse for keeping out of the kitchen now! Hopefully we will be trying some new potatoes and carrots by the end of the month but as everything seems to be so much later this year de-spite the mild winter we may have to wait a little longer.
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
KEMPSTON ROTARY NEWS 2016
THIS past year, under the inspirational leadership of its President Brian Garner, the Rotary Club of Kempston has been involved with a number of projects supporting activities with young people in our community. The club has encouraged the setting up of a young Chef after school club in one of our local upper schools, where with the encouragement of a most enthusiastic teacher, one of the students went on to compete in the Rotary District Final after winning the local competition sponsored by the club and which had been judged by a prominent local chef. Last month three members from the club judged the art work of years 5 and 6 at the local Great Denham Primary School and awarded certificates and prizes to the winners. The club members are keen to encourage and support interest in the arts and
other extracurricular activities which add value to the essential education laid out in the National Curriculum, and to match the prize funding with small contributions to the appropriate departments in the schools. At the moment the Rotarians are in the middle of judging and preparing the prizes in the young Writer Competition it is promoting. This year the response has been enormous, and we have had to increase the number of categories in which to award prizes, from just prose and poetry, now to include creative writing, ballads and reasoning. The Rotary aim is to encourage in young people a love of England’s greatest gift to the world, our wonderful language, and for them to master its construction, appreciate its subtlety and express their ideas clearly. As a logical extension of this aim, the club has worked for many years now with local charity Fun for young People (F4yP), which is now within the auspices of the yMCA, in supporting the literacy element of its Sports Power Courses. The next one of these in which we shall be participating will be in the summer holidays. Kempston Rotary also works in collaboration or joint venture with other charities to ensure its contributions are fully effective. Internationally, this includes large projects such as the building of Sand Dams to provide year-round water in parts of Africa, or locally supporting a neighbouring Club organise an annual Rotary young Musician competition. This year, a young pianist from Kempston graduated from the local competition final to the District semi-finals in a field of very high quality. The club also sponsors a place each year on the outward bound course for young people with disability at the Calvert Trust Centre in the Lake District. This aims to introduce these young people to activities they would not normally expect to encounter and increases self esteem and confidence. Each year the Rotary District runs a Rotary youth Leadership Course (RyLA) for young people between the ages of 21 and 26 at the Outdoor Centre at Grafham Water and the club has always sponsored a candidate. This is a week’s intensive residential course where the participants are taken out of their comfort zone and stimulated to take a leadership role, make decisions within their team.. We have supported some truly wonderful young people in this course over the years, but are always looking for suitable applicants from the community, so if you think this could be you, then please contact with the organiser, Dr. Tony Barber at drtonyb@ntlworld.com.
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KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016 — 19
Know your Blood Pressure Day
iT used to be called Benign hypertension; but not any longer. raised Blood Pressure is most definitely not benign; indeed these days it tends to be called by a more accurate name, the silent killer. raised blood pressure is for the most part symptomless, and that is the danger, you don’t know about it until too late. it does have however a very strong connection to the incidence of stroke. strokes can be of a severity varying from mild, with good recovery, to catastrophically severe and even fatal. stroke is often associated with
considerable residual long term disability; having a stroke always leaves its mark with some functional deficit, sometimes obvious, sometimes not. raised Blood pressure can be easily treated these days, normally without very much in the way of side effects. satisfactory blood pressure control reduces the likelihood of stroke very considerably and is very much worth the effort. raised blood pressure also affects the heart, kidneys and blood vessels. The Kempston rotary Club,
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supported by the stroke Association will be offering free blood pressure checks on the saxon Centre square on saturday 11th June 2016 from 10 am till 4 pm. it takes about three minutes to do, the advice will be friendly, unpressurised, non judgemental and simple. if you have never had your blood pressure taken, or had it done a long time ago, you would be most welcome to come and get it checked; so come and find out what it is now. it might save a lot of trouble in the long run. Dr. Tony Barber.
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20 — KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016
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View from
Bishop Richard by Rt Revd Richard Atkinson Bishop of Bedford
RELEASE TO THE CAPTIVES
FROM my home I look out onto Howard House, the former residence of John Howard the eighteenth century High Sheriff of Bedfordshire and prison reformer; a man, who through insights from his extensive visits to prisons, brought reform to the penal system. It is a vision of a more humane prison system that has inspired people down the ages, not least the work of the eponymous Howard League for Penal Reform. yet despite this campaigning work, and the conscientious efforts of many, prisons continue to struggle to address the problems with which many arrive in prison, including addiction to drugs and alcohol, low educational attainment, and limited skills. In recent years the reoffending rate has stayed pretty constant. It is disturbing to read in the 2015 Bromley Briefing (which marshalls prison statistics) that ‘levels of purposeful activity were judged unacceptable in three-quarters of prisons inspected’. In contrast where there is quality training and links with employers, such as Timpsons or the National Grid, the impact is noticeable and re-offending drops sharply. Today, as I write this, the Queen’s Speech announced a Prison and Reform Bill which promises new ‘Reform’ prisons with an emphasis on ‘training, rehabilitation and education’, as well as greater transparency on statistics of reoffending and post-release employment. This is a welcome vision, but there will need to be the resources to enable its delivery. In the Gospel of Luke, Chapter 4, Jesus reads in his local synagogue from the prophet Isaiah: The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour. Sometimes called the ‘Jesus manifesto, they are words of liberation. Among those listed are ‘captives’ and whilst this is not a call to mass escape from our prisons, it is a summons to ensure that our justice system is not just about punishment, but also rehabilitation and restoration. It is that ‘release’ that enables the offender to resume their place in society with hope and possibility. The very vision that my historic neighbour championed all those years ago!
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In Focus with
Dave by Dave Hodgson Mayor of Bedford
RIVERSIDE NORTH GOOD FOR TOWN CENTRE
THE uK High Street is in crisis. Last year, net closures of shops reached 500, continuing a trend seen year after year nationally. Causes include the rise of online and out-of-town shopping, both of which are here to stay as major features of the retail sector. If town centres don’t change in response to this new landscape, they will wither and in some cases die. I’m pleased to say that’s certainly not what is happening in Bedford. We are pursuing a clear vision of a town which is an attractive destination its own right, for shopping but also for leisure, culture, events and food and drink. A town centre should also be a place to live, and not somewhere that hollows out after shopping hours. Progress towards fulfilling this vision has already been achieved in a number of ways, including the redevelopment of the Higgins Bedford and the ongoing heritage-based High Street scheme which is restoring historic features. Meanwhile, one major project will contribute to all parts of the vision, namely Riverside North. This will see land which was previously the site of council office towers and parking transformed to host a seven-screen cinema, riverside restaurants, two public squares, apartments and a hotel. This £36 million development will create 250 jobs and boost footfall by hundreds of thousands, benefitting the wider town centre. It has been a real commercial success so far. Big names such as Vue Cinemas, Wagamama, Zizzi, Premier Inn and many more have made long-term commitments, delivering a major vote of confidence in Bedford. Construction is well underway, and the topping out ceremony to mark reaching the full height took place last month. Riverside North has risen rapidly from the ground, and is also helping Bedford rise to the challenge of a changing landscape for town centres.
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KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016 — 21
In Focus with
Fuller Richard Fuller MP for Bedford & Kempston
LET’S SEND THE ZOMBIE REVIEW TO ITS GRAVE
ASIDE from referring to the undead, a Zombie can also be defined as “a person who has no energy, seems to act without thinking, and does not notice what is happening.” In this sense, the NHS imposed Bedford-Milton Keynes Hospital Healthcare Review is a “Zombie Review”. It is not that the individuals involved in the multi-year, multimillion pound fiasco are not caring, thoughtful people. In the main, each of them is both caring and thoughtful. The zombie is this healthcare review process itself. Despite overwhelming evidence that trying to merge Bedford and Milton Keynes hospitals will fail to save money, fail to raise healthcare quality and fail to gain the support of local people, the Zombie Review ploughs on and on, regurgitating mantras that are bereft of logic and meaning. The relentlessness of the process now appears designed to grind down opposition to its abject failings, to exhaust opposition, and then to impose by diktat its own flawed “solutions”. For over two years now, all local parties, local doctors and local hospital specialists and managers have united in opposition to the review’s failings and cooperated to identify alternative solutions. Bedford Hospital has done well in its recent Care Quality review and, unlike Milton Keynes Hospital, has reduced rather than increased its deficit. Bedford Hospital is amongst the top in the country for A&E performance. yet the Zombie Review keeps rising again. There is still hope that, belatedly, the Zombie Healthcare Review will be sent to its grave permanently – finally vanquished by its own incoherence. If not, let the members of the review be under no illusion – the people will not accept such a blatantly unjust imposition of a ”solution” we neither want nor believe in.
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22 — KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016
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JUNE IN THE GARDEN – by Milton Ernest Garden Centre
This month I want to introduce you to some special perennial and bedding plants that are great additions to any garden. If your patio is in full sun for most of the day Agryanthemum Everest, a pure white Marguerite Daisy with a bright yellow centre, is any easy plant to grow. The foliage is silvery and so the plant does not lose water at the same rate as plants with green foliage. Therefore less watering is required. Begonia Glowing Embers with bright orange flowers and Dark Elegance with deep red flowers are also plants resistant to certain dry conditions so useful if you are only able to water at irregular intervals. Dahlia Goldalia Scarlet, a zany colorette dahlia, has bright scarlet petals with a striking buttercup yellow inner ring while Dahlia Amazone is pale pink with a deep maroon centre. Both will flower in pots or a border until the autumn frosts providing the flowers are removed as they fade. Zinnia Profusion Fire are also tolerant to drought with bright orange petals and a dark centre and look fabulous when planted near Zinnia Profusion Apricot in any sunny border. A more discreet colour range is found in Antirrhinum Peachy, yellow Maroon and Peachy Bronze.
T
Easy growers for you
They produce neat growing compact plants excellent in tubs with flowers the colour of faded old lace. Choice varieties of Petunia are Fanfare Crème de Casis, pink with a deep maroon centre, Crazytunia Mandeville, cerise and white striped, Happy Copper, a very unusual soft shade of bronzy salmon pink and Crazytunia Black Mamba, the deepest velvety purple black I have seen in flowers. Paeonies make great border plants. Consider carefully where you are planting them as they quickly grow to fairly large plants which do not like being disturbed. They will reward you with many years of fantastic flowers early each summer. Paeonia Itoh Bartzella has large semi double lemon yellow blooms with a red centre and is fragrant. Paeonia Julia Rose has huge single coral pink flowers with a cream centre and a light fragrance. Plant with plenty of rich peaty compost using Rootgrow for quick establishment. Hollyhocks are traditional cottage garden plants. The new introduction called the Halo Series has a paint box range of soft colours. Halo Cerise is bright pink with a dark maroon centre, Halo Cream is cream with a carmine red centre, Halo Blush is palest pink with deep pink markings. Delphiniums and Lupins are must plants for all summer flowering
herbaceous borders. The upright stately flower spikes give the border structure and form and are very bee friendly. Delphinium Excalibur Series are one metre tall with sturdy strong stems and a colour range of white, pink, pale blue and dark blue. Delphinium Magic Fountains are a more compact species with strong colours, dark blue with a black centre, pale blue with a white centre, deep rose with a white centre and pure white. The Gallery Series of Lupin are recommended. They are compact and sturdy in a colour range of white, pink, red, blue and yellow. use a good rich peaty compost when planting Delphiniums and Lupins who will respond with many gorgeous blooms. Remove the faded flowers and feed with chicken manure and keep well watered for a second flowering in autumn. When planting hanging baskets, chimney pots or tubs on pedestals it is difficult to find trailing plants with yellow flowers of foliage. Helichrysum Golden Sunset has lovely soft pale yellow felty foliage and spills nicely over the side of any container. Bidens Golden Eye is a neat compact wandering plant that does not smother everything else in the same pot and has lemon yellow fresh daisy flowers all summer. Thunbergia Lemon Star is a useful summer climbing plant to train over an obelisk in a tub. It grows too quickly to be a trailing plant so give some support and it will reward you with pale lemon five petal flowers with a dark chocolate centres all summer.
exoTiC ANiMAL dAy saturday 11th June Petzotic will be here with their collection of Reptiles, Simon has his Special Spiders and All Saints Face Painters will give you a Creepy Crawley Make Over. Get Expert Advice from Zak & Simon fAMiLy doG shoW sunday 17th July In aid of Canine Partners. A fun day for all the family and your very special friend. Sponsored by Milton Ernest Garden Centre, Scotts Veterinary Clinic and Waterways Pet and Aquatics HOT OFF THE PRESS The schedule for the Milton ernest Garden Centre’s Annual horticultural show on Monday 29th August can be collected from Customer service.
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I
KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016 — 23
Memories as a Fireman at Kempston Fire Station
66 The Grove, Bedford 0043 Tuesday 7th March 1989
by Michael Gurr
T IS NOT often that fire-fighters are called upon to rescue a person when the fire is directly below the victim, although it is something that we train for perhaps more than most. I am sure we have seen over the years perhaps cartoons of fire-fighters in all sorts of situations; two that come to mind is the young lady with her big toe stuck in the tap and the eager firemen climbing a ladder to rescue a lady in a flimsy nightdress. This fire involved a difficult rescue and one which demanded a quick decision by those involved; me in particular. It was Tuesday 7th March 1989; the call was made by Shelagh Jenkins at 0043 to number 66 The Grove Bedford and the first pump arrived at 0047. My allocated task was Breathing Apparatus Entry Control Officer (B.A.E.C.O.) there are firm rules laid down as how to carry out this procedure and it is something every fireman has to be familiar with. But as with most situations in life occasionally the unexpected happens and the best laid plans and training are found wanting, this was one such occasion. As we the pump from Kempston arrived at the fire ground the Bedford pump crew were getting rigged in breathing apparatus I took up my position just outside the front door and near to the garden gate. Within a minute of the first crews entering the house a lady came running up to me; “quick; quick round the back” “I have to stay hear”, she grabbed my arm; “come around the back now it’s important; this way.” Number 66 The Grove is part of a row of terraced houses with access to the rear by way of a very narrow passageway. Against the rules, my instinct, and rather unwillingly I placed the breathing apparatus board on the wall and followed her through a small tunnel like passage through to the back of the house; there to my horror was a lady at a first floor window, the fire was directly underneath her in the kitchen and her room was getting smoke-logged. Immediately I raced back to the pump and slipped a short extension ladder; then shouted for assistance when returning. Two Firemen joined me but due to the narrow passage and a wall to the left at the exit our ladder was not appropriate for this rescue. Our situation was getting desperate; then I noticed a small wooden ladder at the foot of a wall, it looked in poor condition but it was a ladder, we placed it up to the window and a fireman from the Bedford crew went up and I followed him, L/fm. Copperwheat was at the foot. By now there was were two firemen in breath-
SPLIT DECISION
ing apparatus behind her to help. Whilst all this was in progress another crew were busy rescuing a man in an adjoining flat. At the head of the ladder we were using the lady was gently passed out of the window to the waiting firemen Alex Michael. My concern at this time was would this rickety old ladder hold the three us, fortunately the lady concerned was a lightweight and the ladder held. We were unable to rescue this lady the way we had trained, it was more like pass the parcel; the important thing it worked. The lady was 79years-old May Blagden was in her nightdress and the other gentleman was a Mr. Neil Crossan aged 71. As soon as she was safe I quickly returned to my duties as entry control
officer and arrived back just in time as the breathing apparatus teams were exiting from the house. I returned their identification tallies and all was well. The stop message was sent at 0117. The lady who called the Fire Service and summoned me to the rear of the house was Mrs. Shelagh Jenkins who lived at number 64 The Grove. The couple were taken to Bedford Hospital (South Wing) for a check up and soon released. Mrs. Jenkins put them up for the remainder of the night; a good neighbour indeed. The last appliance returned to station at 0255, the radio messages sent that night are not available. Mrs. Jenkins, later when speaking about the fire stated. “It looked like a horrific fire to me, downstairs was
just a blazing inferno. “How the firemen managed to get them out O.K. I just don’t know.” Fire brigade spokesman Mike Murphy said, “All the men involved deserve praise”. The title of this story is split decision, we all have to make them at sometime in our life some may be important and others less so; but just occasionally it may be a life or death decision. Was this incident one of those? We will never know, had things gone wrong for the rescue crews in inside the house we do not know what may have happened. Was I right to leave my post; what would the newspapers have made of three people on an old ladder if it had broken and the elderly lady been injured or worse still killed in the fall. As it happened everything turned out fine and I am pleased to let the reader decide on this one.
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24 — KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
out & about comedy p
Georges Hall Bar & Grill, Biggleswade Monday June 6th Gordon Arms, Bedford Thursday June 9th
Castle Comedy has two exciting shows this June. Whether you choose to visit Bedford or Biggleswade, you are guaranteed a night full of laughs! On Monday June 6th at Georges hall Bar & Grill, Biggleswade the headline act is Greg Burns. Greg hosts London’s No.1 Drivetime show for Capital FM Radio! As a comedian he is a very smooth operator with over 10 years experience bringing his clever and infectious humour to the top clubs in the country! He has appeared on The Comedy Store for Comedy Central, The 11 O’ Clock Show (CH4) as well as appearing in
The Office Christmas special in a part written specifically for him by Ricky Gervais! “As loveable a comedian as you’re likely to find. Confident, funny and clever.” The Sunday Times “He’s a slick, sharp operator with plenty of well-crafted observational material.” Chortle On Thursday June 9th The Gordon Arms, Bedford welcomes comedy legend Mike Gunn! Mike
Programme Includes: Les Miserables What a Wonderful World Phantom of the Opera Music by Bach, Holst and Abba
Tickets cost £10 on the door Children £5 Family tickets £20³includes 2 children
www.ear.hrgb.org.uk Tel: 01234 823811 for further information
HRGB is a Registered Charity 298945 (England) ; SCO38918 (Scotland)
is firmly established as one of the most sought-after and accomplished comedians working on the uK and international circuit. He is a truly original talent, distinguished by his trademark laconic and lugubrious dark humour, killer punch lines and masterful delivery. On TV, he’s performed on BBC One’s Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, The World Stands-up and The Comedy Store for Comedy Central.
“One of the top ten stand-ups in the country” The independent “Mike Gunn will make you die laughing” The Guardian Opening the show is Tony Cowards. Tony is a rapidfire gag merchant with an arsenal full of one-liners, for or laughs-per-minute he’s a tough act to beat! He is a regular feature in lists for ‘Best Jokes’ at festivals or Christmas and his twitter account @TonyCowards is well followed. All the shows feature full support from top comedians. The shows sell out quickly, with the Dinner & Show tickets being particularly popular, so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment! Doors open 6.30pm, Shows start at 8.00pm and tickets are £8 (£6 NuS) or if you fancy a treat, you can buy £16/£18 tickets, which include a pre, show meal and glass of wine from the Gordon Arms or George’s Hall Bar & Grill. www.castlecomedy.co.uk
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016 — 25
at DALEY’S CLUB Bedford Road, Kempston
7.45pm Thursday July 7
Entry by TICKET ONLY £10 available from the bar or call
01234 851143
TONY MAR R E SE – N A TY finalist, Heavy TV c hannel 4, How to be man Chann a el 4, Fanb oys anonym FLIP TV... ous Tony Marre se is EXCELLEN T! TIME OU T...
now this guy is OLAF FALAFEL ust see if you someone you m . Hilariously have the chance ly destined for funny and sure re and fame. greater exposu
ter and roadcas eek. b , n ia d e ck the W on BT -up com g on M o E stand N in r 's On O a T e S p p IAN Football for a e s h u T o d m n writer fa Fighting Talk a 's Radio 5 Sport.
ED HEDGES Br istol comic who was joint winner of the So You Thin k You're Funny new tale nt competition at the Edinburgh Frin ge, at the age of just 19.
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
26 — KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
CARITAS HARMONY GAL A CONCERT
st Mary’s Church, Luton Lu1 3Jf sATurdAy 2 JuLy 2016 7.30pm
A wonderful evening of music and song planned by award winning choir Caritas Harmony (Luton Ladies’ Voices) The event is in support of the choir’s 2016 chosen charity, Macmillan Cancer Support (Bedfordshire) Tickets £8 (under 12’s free) are available via the choir’s website www.caritasharmony.co.uk click GET TICKETS
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORDSHIRE FAMILy HISTORy SOCIETy welcomes new members to its talks. Library and bookstall are available at meetings. Doors open at19.15. Illustrated talk is
The Role of Bedfordshire Parish Registers in the Study of Population History friday 1 July 2016 at Mark rutherford school drama hall Bedford MK42 9rx www.bfhs.org.uk . Next meeting will be Friday 9 September 2016
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JAZZ ON THE GREAT OUSE
–––––––––––––––––––––––– ADDISON CEBBC YOUNG MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR FINALIST (2016)
Julian Trevelyan in concert on 7.30pm Thursday 9th June The Quarry Theatre, Bedford school, st. Peter’s street. Tickets £10 (school students £5) Box Office 01234-362337. FREE PARKING in De Parys Avenue or Kimbolton Road car park 16 YEAR OLD PIANIST
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BRITISH RED CROSS BEDFORDSHIRE
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OPEN GARDENS sunday 5 June, 1.30-5pm oakley Gardens, Westfield road MK43 7su. sunday 12 June, 1.30-5pm, howbury hall, Bedford, MK41 0JB. sunday 26 June, 1pm to 5pm Turvey house and Garden, Bedford MK43 8eL Teas, toilets, plants, parking.
£6.00 pre-book for house & garden by 12th June, telephone Natasha on 01582589083. Garden only on the day £4.00
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SONGS ON A SUMMER EVENING CANTAMuS CHAMBER CHOIR, conductor Gary Mudd
7.30 pm saturday 2 July
st Mary’s Church, Church road, stevington MK43 7sW £7.50 from Community Shop Programme of songs from Scotland, Shakespeare and others, with summer themes, to be sung in this beautiful ancient north Bedfordshire church
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Following the success of last year’s Jazz on the Great Ouse Cruises the John Bunyan Boat Team are pleased to announce the programme for 2016. The cruises which are run in association with Olney Jazz Club, Consica Jazz and The Barns Hotel feature top national and local jazz musicians. The programme is: Thursday June 23rd RICHARD EXALL (sax/clarinet) with ALAN HAuGHTON (piano) BOBBy ORR (drums) Thursday July 21st RACHEL AND FRIENDS featuring RACHEL HICKEy (vocals) BILL MEREDITH (piano) NIGEL EMERTON (double bass) Thursday August 18th GARRy WOOD SWING BAND featuring GARy WOOD (vocals and trumpet) RONNIE FERN (Drums) ALAN HAuGHTON (piano) Thursday september 22nd TOM SySON TRIO, featuring TOM SySON (trumpet) ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016 — 27
THE
con club
KEMPSTON 01234
851120
ENTERTAINMENT EVERY WEEK Friday 3rd June Live here at the Conclub we have
VIBE RADIO
Saturday 25th June AMAZING BAND
FASCINATION
with a mix of DJs and guest DJs every era covered Saturday 4th June BAND NIGHT with the fantastic
Saturday 2nd July Rock out with the
HARKBACK
DIARY DATES
Saturday 11th June the one and only
Saturday 6th August ELVIS TRIBUTE
GOODIES
DR PHIL SOUL MAN LEIGH CASLING Saturday 18th June THE BEAUTIFUL
Saturday 17th September
CHLOE
SOPHIA SOUL
CHECK FOR DETAILS www.facebook.com/conclub.kempston
28 — KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016
music a
Dizzee Rascal confirmed Bedford Park Friday 5th August
Bedford Park Concerts are proud to announce that MC, producer and rapper Dizzee Rascal has been confirmed as the headline act for their Friday night concert, which will take place on the 5th August in Bedford Park. Dizzee Rascal has thrived within the uK garage scene since the early 2000’s, spanning genres from hip-hop and grime to dance and bassline. Having collaborated with the likes of Calvin Harris, Arctic Monkeys and Florence & the Machine, Dizzee has evolved from his grime and garage roots into the mainstream scene, which has found him featured on the bill for festivals like Glastonbury and Radio 1 Big Weekend numerous times. His huge hits include ‘I Luv u’ and Fix up Look Sharp, which went straight into the uK top 20 single charts. As well as his number 1 hit ‘Dance Wiv Me’ featuring Calvin Harris. Dizzee Rascal really developed and amerced himself deeper into the mainstream
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
dance scene with this collaboration. Other hits include further number one hits ‘Holiday’ and ‘Dirtee Disco’ and ‘Bonkers’, which he sang at the opening ceremony for the 2012 Olympics to an estimated worldwide audience of nine hundred million! Supporting Dizzee will be West London’s finest pirate radio station Kurupt FM. Starting out on youtube with their own DIy webisodes, which got the attention of Roughcut, the producers of The Office. Shortly after a pilot was picked by BBC3, this received a massive response and Kurupt FM had instantly gained a cult following. Having sold out Village underground in London with their “Champagne Steam Rooms” night in May and playing the likes of Bestival, Creamfields, Outlook, NASS, Boomtown, Kendal Calling and MADE festival over the summer. With their second series of People Just Do Nothing just launching on BBC3 and promotion on BBC1 and BBC2, the Kurupt FM takeover continues and no one is safe! To add to this exciting line up will be English grime MC and rapper Wiley, who is often referred to as the ‘Godfather of Grime’. Wiley is
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
considered a pioneer in the English underground music scene with a prolific work rate and a versatile music artist with many crossover hits. Wiley has continued to make grime music while also releasing mainstream singles, such as the top 10 hits ‘Wearing My Rolex’, ‘Never’ Be your Woman and his uK number one ‘Heatwave’. Next on the bill is Jaguar Skills. The rise of Jaguar Skills has been well documented. Honing his craft and love of music for the last 20 years Jag has remained true to his school and kept a mysterious edge to his character; with details of his real name, age and home town etc left largely unconfirmed… Completing the line up is rapper, songwriter, recording artist, producer Ms Dynamite, who is the recipient of the Mercury prize, winner of two Brit awards and three Mobos. Tickets at £35 can be purchased from www. bedfordparkconcerts. co.uk
ROBERT BRUCE
FINAL CELEBRATION Friday 15th July Robert Bruce Middle School TIME TO BE CONFIRMED
Please join us for a fun packed afternoon to celebrate over 50 Years of Robert Bruce School supporting the community of Kempston We will be having many activities/ inflatables/ refreshments/music and much much more… Please look out for further details Put the date in your dairy ROBERT BRUCE MIDDLE SCHOOL Bedford Road, Kempston, Bedford, MK42 8PU
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
music a
Proms in the Park celebrates 20 years
Bedford Park Concerts are returning this year with their much loved event – The Bedford Park Proms. It will be made even more special this year as the Proms will celebrate its 20th anniversary, the audience will be treated to a spectacular night of music, fireworks and the famous laser show. The concert features the renowned London Gala Orchestra and as in previous years. This year Classical Brit Award winning Blake will be the headline act. The classical super group have sold over one
Saturday August 6
million albums; they mix eclectic classical and pop songs with rich harmony vocals. Blake will be joined by Rebecca Newman, affectionately named ‘The People’s Soprano’ by fans, colleagues and the media. She stormed to number one in the Official uK Classical Albums Chart with her debut album release. The night will conclude with a spectacular firework finale, which for many was the biggest highlight of last year’s Proms. The Bedford Park Proms is one of the only shows in the country where the fireworks are truly choreographed to the music. Tickets are now on sale at www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk
KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016 — 29
Tom Jones confirms his date with special guests The Shires Bedford Park Sunday August 7
With a career that has spanned more than half a century Toms Jones is an international performer with more than 100 million record sales generated by hits such as ‘It’s Not unusual’,’ Kiss’, ‘Delilah’ and ‘What’s New Pussycat’, Tom Jones along with his band are set to entertain Bedford with a repertoire that spans five decades. Tom Jones has won many accolades including a BRIT Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music and a Silver Clef Award for Lifetime Achievement. Knighted in 2006, the global star has amassed 36 top 40 uK hits. His irresistible show traverses musical eras and genres, appeals to young and old, male and female, mainstream and cutting edge. Warming the crowd up and returning to their
home county will be very special guests The Shires. The duo of Ben Earle and Crissie Rhodes are one of the hottest country influenced acts right now. Hailing from Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, The Shires are set to warm up the Bedford crowd and open the show for what will be an electric night of fantastic music from not only one of the greatest entertainers in the world but some home grown talent too! Tickets are now on sale at www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk
30 — KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.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 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
ST PAuL’S CHuRCH ST PAuL’S SQuARE, BEDFORD MK40 1SQ 7pm saturday 4 June 2016
and presentations on indian sub-continent charities supported by st Paul’s church Delicious home cooked food. £8.00 from 01234 340163. Proceeds to St Paul’s church Outward Giving. Further details ––––––––––––
CURRY EVENING
QUESTION TIME DEBATE ON THE EUROPEAN REFERENDUM
Thursday 16 June 2016 Hosted by St Paul’s church for the benefit of all the people of Bedford and Bedfordshire. Chaired by the Bishop of Bedford this will be an opportunity to hear from politicians and other experts and for people of all faiths and none to ask questions. Please put the date in your diaries now. Further details 01234 340163 www.stpaulschurchbedford.org.uk
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BEDFORD ORGAN & KEYBOARD CLUB THE ADDISON CENTRE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
SOCIAL/DANCE with dancing and music by
JAMES GOFF Refreshments/Raffle 7.30 – 10.00pm WEDNESDAY 29 JUNE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Members £5 PAY AT Non-Members £6 DOOR –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Contact: 01234 344423 www/Organfax/clubs/Bedford ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
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
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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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Call Patricia on 07724 905406
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com CHuRCH OF THE TRANSFIGuRATION (Bedford Road, opposite the Addison Howard Park)
KEMPSTON CALLING JUNE 2016 — 31
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SUMMER FAIR
saturday 4th June at 12noon Entrance 50p (children free) Come along and enjoy a performance of ‘batton twirling’ by the:
shefford MAJoreTTes
There will also be many other attractions such as: cake stall, tombola, jewellery, baby clothes, bric-a-brac, toys, games, books & plants, Grand Draw, Mu stall & bouncy castle and a ‘bargain basement’ There will also be tea coffee and cakes. Please come along to support the church and also to enjoy a friendly family atmosphere.
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ALL sAiNTs NATTer CLuB Guest speaker is Jane Weaver demonstrating Thursday June 16th , 2pm – 5pm Church hall, Kempston Entry £1 including teas, coffees & cakes. Raffle tickets £1 All Welcome Further information Vikki Clarke 01234 843669
CHAIR AEROBICS
BIDDENHAM GARDENERS’ ASSOCIATION Tuesday 21st June at 7:45 for 8pm Biddenham Village hall
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Andrew Mikolajski will talk about ‘THE GARDENS AT YORK GATE LEEDS’
Visitors very welcome Admission £4 per meeting (non Members) - includes Raffle & Refreshments Website: biddenhamgardenersassociation.org.uk
ADDISON CENTRE KEMPSTON FuND RAISING
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TEA DANCE
MoNdAy 13th June 2016 2.00pm to 4.30pm £2.50 (Incl Cuppa) Tel: 01234 851877 or 01234 340997
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Over 100 shows all in one tin!
From Thursday 21st to saturday 30th July Bedford will host the 10th Anniversary International Festival Fringe bringing to Bedford a carefully selected programme of comedy, theatre, live music, film, dance and physical theatre to your doorstep. All these events will be held exclusively at The Quarry Theatre. Bedfringe started back in 2007 making 2016 the tenth Bedfringe. That’s where the tin banding comes from (in case you were wondering). Bedfringe is moving into The Quarry Theatre for 10 days bringing
to the main auditorium and studio theatre a dynamic range of acts ranging from stand-up comedy, theatre, music, dance to hi-tech shows like WiFi Wars where you play games against other audience members on a huge projected screen using your smart phone! Look out for some highlights including the 4th instalment of Joe Bone’s stunning Bane series, Tom Binns… the only comedian to get a five-star review in The Scotsman at last year’s Edinburgh fringe brings his brand new show and the fabulous Paul Foot will be bringing his new show Tis a Pity She’s a Piglet! There’s plenty do to for the kids
as well… and thanks to Bedfordshire Inflatables, lots of garden games will be out for the little uns’ to play with including swing cars, space hoppers, connect 4, snakes and ladders and limbo! So why not just come down and enjoy the wonderful bar and garden areas of The Quarry Theatre! Kids show highlights for us are Morgan & West’s utterly Spiffing Spectacular Magic Show, Three Half Pints (stars of CBeebies Spot Bots) bring their new show Bad Guys and a special touring show (in a van!) The Last Post. So what are you waiting for? Visit www.bedfringe.com to start your Bedfringe experience!