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FooTFAll in Bedford town centre in 2018 fell by 710,000 compared to 2017. This is despite projections of increased activity from the Riverside North development.
At a Full Council meeting on February 6, 2019, the Conservative Group on the council proposed a fully costed amendment to the proposed 2019/20 budget which would have introduced two hours free parking every day in the town centre – for a trial period.
Cllr David Fletcher commenting said: “The recently announced closure of Marks & Spencer and the threat to other big stores this seems like common sense to me.” “Given that people in Bedford have been advocating more free parking for years, the adoption of this policy would have been a big vote winner for the Mayor!” Bedford town centre would be given a ‘huge boost’ under plans from the Council’s Conservatives to provide two hours free parking every day. The proposals would provide: l Two hours free car parking every day in the Council’s multi-storey car parks.
l A subsidy for sixth form pupils’ school transport, reducing the cost of an annual bus pass from £890 to £500. The sixth form school transport subsidy was removed in September 2017. This saw the cost of a bus pass rise by 133% from £381 to £890. Decreasing the cost of a bus pass to £500 a year would make bus travel far more affordable and as a result reduce pollution and congestion with fewer cars. The Mayor’s office was contacted regarding the reasoning behind the rejection of the two amendments to the budget but no answer was received at the time of going to press.
Two in prestigious TES awards
A DynAMiC duo from The Bedford College Group have been shortlisted in the prestigious Times Educational Supplement (TES) Awards. Finance Director Pat Jones (left) and Samantha Jones (right) will be joining the cream of the crop in the educational sector at a glittering ceremony on March 22nd at The Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London. Last year The Bedford College Group was bathed in glory when Keith Jones won the top prize in the apprenticeship training category. The Group provides training for
more than 2,000 apprentices each year across Bedfordshire and northamptonshire. Keith is based at Tresham College which became part of the group in August 2017. “Winning awards is second nature to staff from the Bedford College Group who have a trophy cabinet of glittering prizes to demonstrate the depth and breadth of their expertise in education. To be short-listed in this national forum is recognition in itself of the quality of these two key staff members,” said Principal and CEO ian Pryce CBE. Since Pat Jones has been
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£4400 raised for ‘Beads of Courage’
Left to right: Rebecca Bedford (Complex Health Nurse); Tracey Nuttycombe (Specialst Community Nursery Nurse; Samantha Williamson (Cancer Research Local Fund Raising Manager); Gary Ingerson (President AFC Kempston and Bedford College); Michaela Martindale, (FACE); Maria Nowshadi (Team Leader CCN Team Leader); and Mags Hirst (Play Specialist).
AFC Kempston and Bedford College held a Gala Charity Ball last October to raise money in memory of Mick Birch. President of AFC Kempston, Gary ingerson and Michaela Martindale were the driving forces behind the event. The sum of over £4,400 was raised, split equally between Cancer Research and the ‘Beads’. Mick Birch and Gary served in the RAF together. Laterly he worked at the CCS nHS trust who felt passionately about the Beads after meeting some of the children, seeing their Beads and hearing their stories. He committed to fundraising to
establish the Bead programme for Bedfordshire but sadly suddenly passed away before this could happen. His friends and family have stepped in to ensure that his plans could come to fruition and it will be a wonderful Legacy to Mick that the programme will be running from end of March. The Beads of Courage programme provides children with chronic and life limiting conditions with Beads that recognise their journey. The Beads help to decrease illness related distress, increases the use of positive coping strategies.
2 — KEMPSTON CALLING
MARCH 2019
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Celebrating Diamond Anniversary On Saturday the 9th February the Boys’ Brigade 1st Kempston Company celebrated it’s 60th Anniversary. The Company was founded by Dennis Bellamy an ex-army major, who was the head teacher at Houghton Conquest School. in 1983 the company held a World Record for the longest line of Baked Beans, in 1984 they lined up 3000 dominoes for a giant domino topple raising money for company funds. They have also pushed members around in a hospital bed from Cranfield to Bedford, to raise money for a new X-Ray machine at Bedford Hospital. in 2010 they completed a 24 hour non stop cycle ride around Priory Marian, raising £2000 for the yorkshire Air Ambulance. The yorkshire Air Ambulance rescued one of the company members the previous year, when he broke his ankle in the Peak District. in 2011 the 24 hour cycle ride was repeated this time to raise funds for a new MRi Scanner at the hospital.
in 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2018 the table tennis team have been the winners of the England Boys’ Brigade Championship and in 2016, they were the UK and northern ireland national Champions. During the weekend of the 9th and 10th February there was a number of events, there was a re-union on the Saturday evening with over 2000 photos from the company archive on display, as well as old cine film footage, football kits and uniforms.
Philip Timms, the Company Captain has also written a book ‘We have an Anchor 2’ this is an updated history of the company from 2009-2019, and is a sequel to the first book ‘We have an Anchor’ by David Simms, which covered the first 50 years. Both books were on sale. There was also be the opportunity to purchase a special commemorative 60th anniversary button-
UPDATED HISTORY
hole badge. On Sunday 10th February there was a civic service and ceremonial parade, which took place at the Company Headquarters, Kempston East Methodist Church. The service was led by former company member the Revd David Martin. HM Deputy Lord Lieutenant Ruth Bell MBE DL, was in attendance at the service, along with former high sheriff and company supporter Clifton ibbett OBE, the Mayor of Kempston, Alderman nicky Attenborough, and councillors Adrien Beardmore, Carl Meader, Shan and Will Hunt. if you are an old member please do get in touch with us. Email 1stkbb.pma@gmail.com. We welcome Boys aged 5-18 years. Ages 5-10 meet on Thursdays from 6:30pm, ages 11+ on Fridays from 7pm, all at the church halls at Kempston East. For more information on joining the Boys’ Brigade in Kempston please visit the website http://1kempston.boys-brigade.org.uk
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
Join in! There is still time to enter the Kempston Mayor’s Quiz. Everyone is welcome! If you can’t get a team of six together – don’t let that stop you as you can join others on the night. Why not ask your friends, neighbours and workmates if they would like to join you. It can be a ‘fun’ evening with a range of questions – so everyone should be able to answer some!. There will be a ‘pay bar’ and a fish and chip supper. All the proceeds will go to the Mayor’s charities – Keech Hospice and Autism Bedfordshire. So join the LOCAL community at a LOCAL venue for a quiz set by a LOCAL quizmaster and enjoy fish and chips cooked at a LOCAL shop. The price is £10 per person and includes supper. The time is 7 for 7.30pm at Centenary Hall, Bedford Road Kempston on 23rd March. Telephone 01234 851005 for further details and to register.
See it – Report it The support of the local community is vital in helping to ensure a neighbourhood is safe and free from the fear of crime. However much it is thought that ‘nothing happens’ it is important that we all report incidents or suspicions. You can do this to the police direct by telephoning 101 or easily via their website (www.bedfordshire.police.uk). See link which is shown at the top of the home screen. Please give as much
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PLANNING....................................6.30pm 12 March TOWN COUNCIL ..........................7.30pm 12 March KEMPSTON BURIALS JOINT COMMITTEE..................... 7.30pm 14 March PLANNING.........................................6.30pm 9 April TOWN COUNCIL ...............................7.30pm 9 April COMMUNITY SAFETY FORUM.......6.30pm 24 April
ANNUAL PARISH MEETING FOR KEMPSTON RESIDENTS Thursday 25th April 2019 at 7.30pm
In the Council Chamber, 104 Bedford Road, Kempston
detail of the incident as you can (times, locations, descriptions etc.) If you feel at risk of harm you should not hesitate in calling 999 for emergency help. If you don’t want to give your personal details, you can also give details anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Anti social behaviour can also be reported on line via the Bedford Borough Council website (www.bedford.gov.uk) If you see it, report it!
Priority Kempston Town Councillors continue to work closely with the police to keep your community safe. The priority for the quarter, agreed with Councillors, is combatting drugs supply. In this connection, Mayor James Valentine took part in a high visibility operation on 25th January with the police and BPHA in the Williamson Road area. They knocked on hundreds of doors and received significant amounts of intelligence that is likely to lead to arrests. Cllrs Valentine, Burley and Oliver took part in a Joint Action meeting with police to review progress on 1st February. Community Priority setting meetings are organised by the police. The aim is to talk with the public about deciding on the priority for the community policing team in the local area. The next meeting will take place between 7 and 9pm on the 6th March 2019 at: Kempston Challenger Academy, (you may know it as Hastingsbury) – Hill Rise, Kempston MK42 7EB.
Think A longstanding problem in all parts of Kempston is ‘on- street’ parking or the lack of it! There is no easy answer! Please think very carefully where you leave your car. It is illegal to park on the pavement or block driveways. Pavement parking causes many problems for wheel chair and mobility scooter users plus blind and visually impaired people. It is also dangerous for baby buggy pushers too.Some motorists continually park with some or all wheels on the pavement. Please consider others! If you need to report a problem with parking issues phone – Parking Services 01234 718359 who may be able to help.
COUNCILLORS’ HELP & ADVICE SURGERY Every Saturday 10.30am–12 noon in Sainsbury’s at the Saxon Centre.
Two in prestigious TES awards Finance Director, the college has maintained outstanding financial health and is regarded as one of the most innovative colleges for financial practice. ian Pryce continued: “2017-18 though has been a truly exceptional year even by her standards and Pat’s personal performance ensured the merger between Bedford College and Tresham College was successful. Pat achieved this by being innovative in her approach to costs and budgets whilst being proactive in maximising college income. She has led on bids securing £7.5m already towards the redevelopment of the campus in Wellingborough.” This contribution from a financial leader makes a massive educational difference. Wellingborough has become the second worst place in England for the progress of disadvantaged students, and this will mean 400 young people who do not travel to other providers will now be able to access education locally. Pat has also secured £2.5m towards the new Advanced Engineering Centre in Bedford, as well as securing another £1m in voluntary donations and other grants towards the same building (a novel approach in the education sector). Pat will be joined by colleague
From front page
from The Bedford College Group, Samantha Jones. Samantha Jones is an Advanced Practitioner at Bedford College. She has worked for the College for over 14 years and moved into the Teacher Education and Scholarship Department in 2013, teaching on the PGCE Certificate in Education course, which has grew by 338% from only eight students in 2013 to 35 students in September 2017. During this time, Samantha demonstrated outstanding commitment to the development of the course, the student learning experience and her own teaching best practice. This hard work has been reflected in the consistent increase in achievement of students. in June 2017, Samantha launched the UK’s first FE Research Meet in Bedfordshire, providing a space for FE lecturers to share and discuss their research. Five pieces of research were shared at this first meeting and 40 FE lecturers attended. in 2018, the second Bedfordshire FE Research Meet saw in excess of 15 pieces of FE research shared and 65 FE staff attending. Last year, Samantha gained a PhD place at Cambridge University, which she began in September 2018, exploring ‘vocational knowledge and updating vocational knowledge’.
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MARCH 2019 KEMPSTON CALLING —
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Two charged following a string of crimes TWO men have been charged with a number of offences, following crimes committed across the county. James Piggott, 28, of no fixed abode and Marcus Ashby, 42, formerly of Kempston were both charged and remanded in custody, after being arrested following a burglary at a convenience store in Bedford Road, Kempston on Wednesday, February 6, 2019. Piggott was charged with four counts of robbery, in connection to incidents that took place in Dunstable and Bedford in which
handbags were stolen, as well as one count of burglary in Kempston, one count of theft from a shop, one count of possession of Class A drugs, and one count of obstructing a police officer. Ashby was charged with one count of burglary in Kempston, one count of affray and one count of fraud. They appeared at Luton Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, February 7, 2019, where they were remanded in custody pending a further court appearance at Luton Crown Court on March 11.
Harpur Trust appoints new CEO THE Harpur Trust, last month announced the appointment of David Steadman as the charity’s new Chief Executive, effective from late July 2019. David joins The Harpur Trust from the national charity Action on Hearing Loss, where he is currently Executive Director of Engagement. With an MA in Physics from Oxford University, an MBA from Cranfield University and a background in the technology sector, David has substantial experience gained in children’s and young people’s charities including The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Coram and The Prince’s Trust. He also co-founded a successful new Free School, Alma Primary, and was its first Joint Chair of Governors. Murray Stewart, Chair of Trustees, said “David brings a wealth of experience and fresh ideas to The Harpur Trust from his career in the charity sector.” David takes over from current Chief Executive David Russell, who joined the Trust in 2002 and retires in August. He has led the charity through a period of great change, both in its schools and in its involvement in the community. David has driven the professionalisation of operations and services across the
Follow what’s happening in Bedford Trust, whilst playing a leading role in the creation of the Harpur Trust’s grantmaking and social investment programme. Perhaps his proudest achievement is the transformation into Bedford Academy of the old John Bunyan School, now a successful secondary school in its local community. Chair of Trustees, Murray Stewart said: “We are extremely grateful for the outstanding leadership and contribution which David has made to the Trust during his tenure. He leaves the Trust in a strong position as a charity here for the people of Bedford.”
Whole lotta Love going on in Bedford
Bedford town centre continues to attract new and loyal customers alike from traditional and new housing areas. Some walk in, some use public transport, others take advantage of various free parking deals, especially at weekends. There is something for everyone to enjoy night and day. Saddened though we are by the reports of M&S closing their existing store, we know that more businesses are opening every month and investment continues at the Harpur Centre and elsewhere. People who really love Bedford speak with their purses and shop, eat and drink in the town centre and are proud to believe that their home town remains a cut above many others where businesses have been scythed by on-line and out of town retail. Speaking up for Bedford businesses Christina Rowe, Director of BedfordBID which runs the love Bedford campaign says: “Against the back drop of the national seismic shift in retail and changes in consumer habits, Bedford has welcomed 26 new business in recent months and seen the upgrading and upsizing of others.
“Blue Glass has developed its wine merchants business and is extending into new bar premises on St Peters, Délices has been turned into The Gallery cafe and bakery, the old BHS unit will be completed shortly and developments at Harpur Centre continue. “The multi-million pound investment in the Bedford Swan hotel have resulted in a fantastic new bar and restaurant. Businesses such as Mama Concetta help to champion the quality restaurant trade, whilst Mayson’s are a testament to High Street investment. The old Nat West near the Bus Station is now being developed, as too is the Greggs on Harpur Street. “A Caribbean restaurant is opening on Howard Street and there is a new business: Panzerotto on Mill Street. The old BoS unit has been redeveloped to residential and Six’s/Angles is taking over the The Pad club on lurke Street” All outlets are documented on the www.lovebedford.co.uk complete with offers and deals and What’s on listing. THE most extensive collection of GooD news about Bedford.
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KEMPSTOn CALLinG is an independent monthly newspaper with no affiliation to any other organisation. © 2019 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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MARCH 2019
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New fine for Free School alumni Seth Oraeki irresponsible on The Voice waste disposal BEDFoRD Borough Council has introduced a new Fixed Penalty Notice to tackle flytipping.
The Council already issues fines to those who commit the offence of fly-tipping. It is estimated that two-thirds of fly-tipped waste is household waste which is often fly-tipped because a householder has allowed an unauthorised person to take it away, rather than them fly-tipping t it themselves. To crack down on this, a new Fixed Penalty Notice has been introduced which will see a £300 fine issued to people who are responsible for fly-tipping because they allowed an unauthorised individual get rid of their household waste. If an individual is disposing of their household waste, they have a ‘duty of care’ to ensure that they are using a licensed waste carrier so that the waste is disposed of correctly. If they do not, and the waste is flytipped the individual who created the waste will be fined, alongside the person who committed the fly-tipping. In Bedford Borough previously, the Council has been aware of a case where residents wanted to clear some rubbish from their garden. They were quoted £100 for the waste to be cleared by a third party, who then dumped it in an alleyway just a few metres away. Mayor Dave Hodgson said: “It is irresponsible to allow an unauthorised individual to get rid of your waste, as it can end up being fly-tipped and be a blight on our local environment. “We would ask everyone to work with us as we crack down on fly-tipping across Bedford Borough. The best way to do this is to always ensure that you are disposing of any household waste correctly; with a licensed waste carrier and to get a ‘Waste Transfer Note’. “otherwise, if the waste is later found fly-tipped you can be held responsible and what may have seemed like a great deal can go extremely sour with a fine of £300.” This new Fixed Penalty Notice follows the Government’s introduction of a Fixed Penalty Notice for breaches of the household waste duty of care.
SATURDAy, February 2, saw round five of the blind auditions of The Voice and a familiar face for Bedford Free School. Alumni Seth Oraeki wowed the judges with his cover of Labrinth’s “Jealous” and had two of the superstar coaches turning, in the end he opted to join Will.i.am’s team over Jennifer Hudson. Staff and students at Bedford Free School aren’t surprised by his success though. Drama teacher Miss Damon said: “Seth always expressed a keen interest in the arts and was able to develop his love for music, dancing and acting here at BFS. We’re ecstatic that his hard work has paid off and will be supporting him through out.” Seth himself has told us: “i started at Bedford Free School later in the year which caused me a few problems, trying to fit in, catching up with the rest of my year and finding a place to belong, but the school allowed me to develop and grow as a person and i quickly found myself a part of the performing arts team. With the help of Miss Goodship and Miss Damon i was able to expand my horizons higher than i ever expected. “One moment i’ll never forget is when they entered me into the ‘Bedfordshire Festival of Music, Speech and Drama’ it was a competition for original songs and i entered my song ‘Get it Wrong Get it Right’. i was fortunate enough to come first, receive an outstanding and be invited to sing in the Gala on the closing night of the festival. This was the first time a song i wrote had made such an impact on the public and the way Miss Damon and Miss Goodship reacted was the icing on the cake.
i’ve always known music is what i’ve wanted to do and Bedford Free School has given me the foundation i need inside and out of the classroom to be able to pursue my dreams.” Executive Principal, Stuart Lock added: “All of the staff and pupils at Bedford Free School are very proud of Seth. He is a talented young man who will go far because of his hard work and dedication. The whole school will be tuning in to cheer him on in the next part of The Voice.”
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MARCH 2019 KEMPSTON CALLING —
Magistrates hand down £1060
Pictured (l-r): Hugh Maisey, Pauline Stewart, Fiona McDougal, Mark Turner, Clair Bradley.
£13k fine for building regulation offences On Tuesday, January 29, 2019, Mr Mohammed Saleem, of Bromham Road, Bedford, was ordered to pay £13,772.97 after pleading guilty to breaching the Building Regulations. During the hearing at Luton Magistrates Court, the court heard how Mr Saleem had not complied with a number of Building
Regulations including some critical fire safety requirements whilst carrying out work to convert an existing office space into flats. The Court ordered that Mr Saleem to pay one fine of £10,000, two of £1,000, a victim surcharge of £170 and £1,602.97 in legal costs, totalling £13,772.97.
Do you have a child in Year 9? Are you looking at their options for Year 10? Wootton Upper School is your answer... Find out about the wide range of GCSE options from September 2019 at our Information Evening.
Thursday March 14th at 7pm. Everyone is welcome – just ring Linda Gray on 01234 767123 to reserve your seats or book at: https://rebrand.ly/WUSYear9 or scan the QR code: raise from i ts r igh p h ec d e en v ei
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THE Bedfordshire Magistrates Association were delighted to meet with the Road Victims Trust to present a cheque for £1060 as a result of a year of fundraising activities. The Road Victims Trust is a Kempston based charity that provides free emotional and practical support to all persons affected by a road death in Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire. Each year the Trust supports in excess of 500 people by way of a face to face counselling service. The Magistrates Association raised the money with a series of fundraising days, raffles and presentations. Talking about the award, the Chair of the Magistrates Association, Fiona McDougal said: “ We were proud to support a local charity that does so much to support those whose lives have been devastated by a road death” Clair Bradley, Fundraising manager for the Trust said: “This was a lovely gesture that will enable us to continue to help those who are at their lowest ebb.” To learn more about the work of the Road Victims Trust visit www.rvtrust.org.uk
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An extensive extracurricular programme which underpins pupils spiritual, moral, social and cultural Teachers development Teachers have a have a high Wootton Upper School, high expectation expectation of Hall End Road, Wootton, of how pupils their pupils A well-designed Bedfordshire, MK43 9HT should behave curriculum which 01234 767123 allows pupils to choose wootton@wootton.beds.sch.uk from a wide range www.woottonupper.co.uk of option subjects www.pecreative.co.uk 19_0003 www.facebook.com/WoottonUS/
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MARCH 2019
We’re going to the zoo – how about you? STUDEnTS, staff and special guests attended a special ceremony to mark the progress of the foundations and steel structure for a brand new £3.65m Zoological Education Centre at Shuttleworth College. Guest of honour, Owen Craft, General Manager at the world renowned ZSL (Zoological Society of London) Whipsnade
Zoo, near Dunstable, was joined by student ambassadors, The Bedford College Group CEO and Principal ian Pryce CBE, Centre Curator Carl Groombridge and College Governor, Alasdair Simmons to tighten one of the structural bolts for the steel frame at the land-based learning campus at Old Warden near Biggleswade. Bringing the Amazon and The Outback to Bedfordshire, Shuttleworth College’s ZEC will be the only Further Education centre in the UK to have a specially-designed biome for housing tropical creatures from around the world. The unit will follow an “Evolutionary Pathway” along which students will learn how to look after every “order” of the animal kingdom. it will include an aquatic room, bird flight area and outside paddocks for the bigger animals. This highly specialised training which young people can undertake at The Bedford College Group facility will prepare them to
follow the trails cut by earlier students who are now working in prestigious zoos and conservation centres. Carl Groombridge, Centre Curator said: “The facility will allow us to expand the range of animals we have here. For example we already have some caiman small-sized crocodilians, but will now have Mississippi alligators too in their own pool. “We are already part of an international conservation and educational network, but this new facility will put us firmly on the world map. For me it is a dream come true.” Carl and team have been working closely with the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) which owns London and Whipsnade zoos, to create an environment where animal welfare is paramount. if you would like to work with animals then visit The Bedford College Group on bedford.ac.uk for details of courses and careers.
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Pictured above: Governor Alasdair Simmons tighten the bolt at on framework of new Zoological Education Centre.
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New GCSE programme unveiled at Wootton Upper School event
PAREnTS and pupils are being invited to Bedford’s top-achieving Wootton Upper School to discover the range of GCSE options available for year 10 students. The information Evening is being held on Thursday, March 14 at 7pm and is open to parents and both current and prospective pupils, who will be entering year 10 in the 2019 academic year. The school, based in Hall End Road, Wootton, offers a wide range of subject options for GCSE students alongside a host of extracurricular opportunities and competitive sports provision. it recently became one of only nine schools in the UK to receive the coveted Secondary Geography Quality Mark (SGQM) in recognition of “excellence in teaching and learning in geography” in the 2018 awards scheme. The award, presented by The Geographical Association, follows a rigorous assessment process in which the national Moderation Team examined how well the school embraced new and innovative approaches to teaching, pupil attainment and achievement levels, student understanding and knowledge of geography and the quality of teaching available. Also, in november the school was recognised as one of the top ten
schools in the country in terms of the percentage of year 11 pupils successfully completing the national Citizenship Award after sitting their GCSE examinations. The school was presented with a gold plaque and a framed certificate signed by the Prime Minister.’ These achievements have followed high praise from Ofsted in 2017 which commended Wootton Academy Trust’s clear and strategic leadership and its “effective” teaching standards which has seen pupil attainment rise at the school - particularly in English and Science. Michael Gleeson, Executive Principal, said: “The educational, social and sporting opportunities at Wootton keep on growing every year which is strengthening our reputation as one of the leading providers of education in this county. “We’re very proud of what we have to offer GCSE pupils embarking on their first steps to a fulfilling career and look forward to meeting parents and students and sharing our ambitious programme while supporting young people to make the best decisions for their future.” if you would like to attend the event please contact Linda Gray on 01234 767123 to reserve a seat or book attendance via Eventbrite at: https://rebrand.ly/WUSyear9.
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TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
MARCH 2019 KEMPSTON CALLING —
7
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Kempston’s council tax already too high
TO THE EDiTOR: it is important for elected representatives to be held to account for their actions. i also believe in transparency. That’s why i want to share this with the residents of Kempston so they can draw their own conclusions. This month, Kempston’s Labour representatives refused to support a motion to freeze Councillor allowances. instead, they proposed a commitment to have their allowance increased each year for four years, and to forget the independent advice given and increase the basic allowance this year. Thankfully Labour’s coalition partners and Conservative councillors voted to freeze allowances. Kempston already pays more in Council tax than other areas of the Borough, and attempting to line their own pockets instead of putting that money into local services such as children’s services and highway repairs is absurd. Their purpose is to represent the people of Kempston. This proves they are out of touch with Kempston residents and it’s time for a change. Matt McCarthy Conservative Candidate for Kempston West ward
Transparency call over sell-off of land
TO THE EDiTOR: As a former Chair of Governors at Hastingsbury Upper School, now Kempston Challenger Academy, i have continued to take an interest in the school. As Mayor, i enjoyed the students’ performance of “Beauty and the Beast” last year. And i was delighted to hear about the school’s ‘Good’ Ofsted rating. Congratulations to the students and staff who i know will have worked very hard for this result.
When i stood down as a governor the school was still maintained by the local authority, and like all LA governors i was unpaid. Hastingsbury was subsequently acquired by the Challenger Trust, as was Robert Bruce, which was closed shortly afterwards. i share Cllr Oliver’s concern about the Robert Bruce site, part of which is to be sold off for housing. Can the directors guarantee that all profits from the land sale will be used for educational purposes? Will additional fees go to directors of the Trust, and can all fees and payments be disclosed, please? James Valentine, Mayor of Kempston
Attack on schools undeserved
TO THE EDiTOR: Labour’s Borough Councillor for Caudwell, Sue Oliver, and Labour representative, Kay Burley, are wrong to attack our Kempston schools out of ideological malice. Under local Labour politicians’ watch, education in parts of Kempston deteriorated to an unacceptable level in the recent past. Since involvement of the Challenger Multi Academy Trust, Kempston now has two ‘Good’ secondary provisions for the first time ever, and there is a real chance of soon having only ‘Good’ and ‘Outstanding’ education provision in our town. We should celebrate and support the successes of our schools and hardworking teachers! The outdated Labour stance in Kempston and in Bedford, where Cllr Oliver represents her residents, is based on old-fashioned control freakishness. Until they are in control of every aspect of our day-to-day lives, they’ll never be happy. That is why they blocked setting up a new school in Kempston a decade ago, against
Kempston families’ interests; that is why they lament the fact that strong education providers have come into our town to better the chances of Kempston children. That is why Cllr Oliver and other representatives are now actually against a charity organisation establishing a new special school to help children with special educational needs and disabilities and, in the future, providing additional respite care and community facilities for Kempston residents. Labour representatives such as Sue Oliver and Kay Burley are so fixated on playing party politics and keeping true to their control freak ideology that they would prefer to see the old Robert Bruce site sit there literally decaying under their stale control rather than positively work with providers, as i know my colleague, Kathy Stone, has, to see Kempston residents benefitting from a new school and additional facilities. Labour would prefer to run things into the ground rather than loosen their suffocating grip. Cllr Anthony Boutall Borough Councillor Kempston Central & East
Anger over claims of involvement
TO THE EDiTOR: Kempston’s Labour party’s recent newsletter is’Dirty Politics’. As prospective Conservative Candidate in Kempston north, i’m angered by Labour Councillor Sian Hunt’s claim to be responsible for getting improvements organised at the Hartwell Drive/Butler Way Children’s Play Park. Their newsletter says ‘Actions Speak Louder than Words’. in June 2018, it was identified the play area was ‘dirty, unhygienic and dangerous’. Working with the Borough’s Environmental Team and four local residents, who came forward as a result of
my request for support, we cleaned and weeded the park in november 2018. The council promised, in return to replace the gates which had been missing for nearly eight months, a bench and swing that had been damaged by fire, supply new bark and sand and provide paint to refresh the existing equipment, bins and fencing. i’m pleased to report that the missing gates, a new metal bench and swing are now in situ. But i’m angry and disgusted that a prominent labour councillor and another’s dog came to have their photographs taken for their newsletter, who have never worked with us or volunteered to help at any of the action days, yet want to claim all the credit. My next action day at the park is on Tuesday 19th March. I have also contacted Bedford Primary School, to ask if their children would like to contribute to the art work for the project. i believe politicians should be active in their ward all year round not just at election time. it is worse when they also want to claim credit for other people’s actions. One wonders what they will claim next. Kathy Stone Borough Council Candidate Kempston North
LETTERS AND CONTRIBUTIONS Letters to the Editor are welcomed. However the Editor retains the absolute right to edit, omit as he/she sees fit, without reference to the author. Please email your contributions to: editorial@rosettapublishing.com with Kempston Calling in the subject line or Tweet us at: #RosettaCom or Facebook at: RosettaPublishingLtd
In Focus with
View from the Rt Revd
Update from the
Dave
Richard Atkinson
Police & Crime Commissioner
by Dave Hodgson Mayor of Bedford
BLACK CAT DELAYS STILL WITH US FOR YEARS
Over the years the notorious Black Cat roundabout on the A1/A421 has increasingly become a byword for delays and congestion. The impact of daily delays on motorists’ quality of life and on businesses’ bottom lines is why i’ve lobbied government to deliver a proper upgrade. So it’s good news that Highways England has now announced the preferred configuration of a completely remodelled Black Cat junction, along with the preferred route for the new dual carriageway immediately to the east of it. That will mean a fully-dualled route between Bedford and Cambridge. Meanwhile, the Black Cat junction will finally see the A421/8 and A1 separated from the roundabout itself via slip roads, and not a moment too soon. For details see www.highwaysengland.co.uk/a428. The scheduled start date for the works is 2021/22 which, appallingly, is two years later than had been planned for a project that was announced to great fanfare back in 2014. Meanwhile, the latest announcement comes two years after public consultation on options. Local motorists and businesses cannot afford any further delay. nor can residents of Great Barford, Wyboston and other villages nearby, where the upgrade will provide relief from rat-running. The government and its agencies need to recognise the urgency of upgrading our infrastructure to keep pace with economic growth. Jobs growth in Bedford Borough has dramatically outstripped both the regional and national rate in recent years. We need infrastructure improvements brought forward to match. in addition to the A421/8 and other road schemes, these include East West rail and a better deal overall for Bedford rail users, including an upgraded Bedford station, the return of all peak-time fast rail services and the retention of intercity services. Each of these issues is crucial to economic growth and to local residents’ quality of life, and i’ll keep working to get the best for Bedford Borough on all of them.
The Bishop of Bedford
IT IS NOT ALL ABOUT GOODIES AND BADDIES
Are you a goody or a baddy? Memories flood back of playground games when what mattered was which side you were on. you were either a goody or a baddy. We live in a world where so often we want to make binary decisions about people. Are you this or are you that? Sometimes it is trivial. Do you put the cream on first on a scone or is it the jam (i know if you are Cornish or from Devon this is a matter with the potential to bring conflict!). But often it is more serious. The binary divide of ‘are you academic or vocational’ has led many to leave behind significant parts of their identity. Similarly in Apartheid South Africa whether you were black or white mattered. i thought about this tendency to binary divide as i heard of the trouble John McDonnell, the Labour Party Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer, got into when asked at the end of an interview ‘Winston Churchill – Villain or Hero’. He answered: ‘Tonypandy – Villain’ with its reference to the sending in of troops against striking miners in South Wales in 1910 when Churchill was Home Secretary. not surprisingly it was condemned immediately as a slur on a great Briton. Are you saint or sinner; friend or foe; one of us or one of them? The tendency to see people as either this or that is one to which we are all prone. yet in reality that simple goody/baddy divide is rarely adequate. As a teenager i regret the pressures to decide between science and humanities. i chose humanities and in so doing left behind a huge part of learning. As a Christian i know that i am both saint – someone loved by God – and sinner – someone who falls short of the command to love. in St John’s Gospel when Jesus meets the woman caught in adultery whom the religious leaders wish to condemn (they are clear who is the goody and who is the baddy) he reaches out to her in love, whilst also saying that she should sin no more. no simple binary divide for our Lord! But then again why should that surprise us? Even Churchill, hero that he was, had his failings. it is easy to divide the world into goodies and baddies; it is much more honest to acknowledge that all of us are both saints and sinners.
by Kathryn Holloway
£1.6M OF GRANT FUNDING TO ALLOCATE
i have been holding a series of panels over the past few weeks to decide which organisations will be awarded money from her Grant Fund to help victims and reduce crime in Bedfordshire over the next year. The commissioning team received 85 applications (69 of which were from external organisations and charities) for the 2019/20 Grant Fund totalling more than £3.8 million worth of bids to help victims and increase community safety in the county. Over the last two weeks (4–15 February), applicants have been presenting for an hour each to a panel of experts and residents from across the county who decide if any of the £1.6 million of grant funding will be allocated to them. My team were joined by safeguarding experts from local authorities, organisations and charities across Bedfordshire which provide support in domestic violence, sexual violence, education, early intervention and offender rehabilitation. The independent chair of the Police and Crime Panel, Paul Cain, was also present for many of the panels. We will now be reviewing the feedback from the panels and the presentations with the aim of announcing the successful applicants for the 2019/20 Grant Fund in March. As part of my commitment to working with services to support victims of domestic violence, sexual violence and hate crime, the team will also be looking to support services which aim to reduce offending in areas such as domestic violence by providing education for offenders, child sexual exploitation, modern day slavery and county lines. Last year, we funded an enhanced new service for all victims of crime in Bedfordshire, called Signpost. The free and confidential service is a one-stop-shop for all the information a victim of crime needs to know. Signpost consists of a call centre of specialist Victim Care Coordinators, available on Freephone 0800 0282 887, running six days a week (Monday to Friday 8am – 8pm, Saturday 9am – 5pm). Signpost also has an online directory of all support services for those affected by different crimes – signpostforbedfordshire.com. in the last round of grants we also commissioned organisations supporting victims of Domestic Abuse and Child Sexual Exploitation and other crimes against women and children such as Female Genital Mutilation and Forced Marriage. Organisations such as the Anne Frank Trust received funds to work in schools across the county to combat prejudice and prevent Hate Crime through the story of Anne Frank.
8 — KEMPSTON CALLING
MARCH 2019
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Showcasing seven key successes in seven years AT THE end of her second and final term in office, SEMLEP’s Dr Ann Limb CBE DL reflects on SEMLEP’s impact on strengthening the economy in South East Midlands and the UK as a whole. Appointed as SEMLEP’s founding Chair in September 2011, the network of the then 39 Local Enterprise Partnerships were created at a time when the country was coming out of a double-dip recession. Over this period, the strategic input of a unique partnership between the public and private sector was critical to steering investment decisions into areas that would have the biggest economic impact and restore confidence in our local and national economy. Under her leadership, SEMLEP has: l launched SEMLEP’s first Business Plan ‘Getting down to Business’ in 2013, the 2014 Strategic Economic Plan; and the refreshed economic plan ‘Where innovation Fuels Growth’ in 2017 with the mission to double the size of the local economy by 2050. l delivered an investment programme totalling £265million, contributing 20,000 jobs and 30,000 homes in the area through the Growing Places Fund and the Local Growth Fund. l established the area’s Growth Hub, SEMLEP’s business support service for small and medium businesses, which has worked directly with over 2000 businesses each year, and with 20% of businesses receiving over 12 hours of intensive business support and advice. l successfully merged with our neighbouring LEP, northamptonshire Enterprise Partnership in 2016, creating an economic area of over 2
Dr Ann Limb CBE DL, Chair of SEMLEP (September 2011 to February 2019).
million people. SEMLEP was the first LEP in the country to eliminate geographic overlap, leading the way for LEPs which are now merging as a result of the governmental LEP review in July 2018. l set up from scratch a strong new organisation recognised by government as a well-performing, well-managed LEP with good governance, successfully achieving investment spend targets year on year. l developed the area’s Local industrial Strategy, due to be published this coming Spring, which
GREAT DAYS OUT FULLY ESCORTED RETURN COACH TRAVEL FROM BEDFORD AND RUSHDEN
EAGLE TRAVEL
MOTOWN THE MUSICAL
sets out how the South East Midlands can boost productivity, earning potential and competitiveness in a post-EU, global economy. l overseen the development of an economy that, from 2011 to today, has grown from £46bn to £54bn GVA, and over 90,000 businesses, building 6% of national house building requirements, compared to 3.6% of the country’s population, and recognised as one of the most innovative LEP areas in the country. Reflecting on the last seven years, Ann says: “it has been a huge privilege to chair SEMLEP since its inception and to oversee such phenomenal development and delivery by SEMLEP’s dedicated and talented team. “it has been an honour to lead on skills nationally for the LEP network and to have been able to promote SEMLEP’s delivery successes across the board to government Ministers on so many significant occasions. “With such strong foundations in place SEMLEP will play a leading role going forward in the Ox-Cam Arc.” The strategic role of Local Enterprise Partnerships remains of critical importance today as it was back in 2011. Responding to EU Exit and the international trade agreements that will follow, will require continuation of the strategic leadership and expertise, collaborative working and evidencebased policy decision making that Ann’s leadership has provided SEMLEP over the last seven years. Ann’s last Board meeting will be 27 February 2019, when the SEMLEP Board is to ratify the appointment of their new Chair.
28th MARCH – £99pp
Includes theatre ticket & 2-course pre theatre lunch Motown the Musical tells the story of Berry Gordy and the creation of his musical empire, Motown Records, which defined the sound of a generation. Featuring over 40 hit songs from artists such as Diana Ross, The Jackson 5 and Marvin Gaye, this modern chapter in Motown’s iconic history is an unforgettable event. Prior to the show at the Shaftesbury Theatre you will also enjoy a delicious 2-course pre-theatre lunch at the nearby Bloom and Willow restaurant.
CALL THE MIDWIFE – CHATHAM HISTORIC DOCKYARDS
THURSDAY 25th APRIL – £75pp
Includes entry, 2-course lunch & guided tour Your day will begin with free time to explore this historic dockyard which is home to warships, RNLI lifeboat collections, the Victorian Royal Naval Ropery & more! Your ticket includes a 2-course lunch at “The Mess Deck”, followed by the official “Call The Midwife” walking tour. Guided by a costumed midwife, you will experience just how this 400 year old site was transformed into 1960’s London for the hit show.
MAMMA MIA
23rd MAY – £99pp Includes theatre ticket & 2-course lunch Your day will start at Tutton’s in Covent Garden where you will enjoy a 2-course pre theatre lunch. A short walk away is the Novello Theatre, where you will take your seats for Mamma Mia, the smash hit musical based on the legendary songs of ABBA. Seen by over 50 million people worldwide, it tells the tale of a mother, a daughter, three potential fathers, a Greek Island and an unforgettable trip down the aisle!
GARDENERS’ WORLD LIVE
NEC BIRMINGHAM, 13th JUNE – £59pp
To book your Great Day Out call: 01234 348882 Quote: ROSE19 11 Goldington Road, Bedford MK40 3JY office@eagletravel.co.uk
Includes entry to Gardeners’ World & Good Food Summer Indulge your passion for gardening at Gardeners World Live! With thousands of exhibitors, live demonstrations, show gardens and much more this years event is packed full of lots of new features for. Your ticket also includes entry to BBC Good Food Show Summer, featuring live stage demos from top chefs and a wealth of speciality producers.
LADIES’ DAY AT ROYAL ASCOT
THURSDAY 20th JUNE – £129pp Includes entry to The Queen Anne Enclosure Watch the worlds most famous race meeting from the epicentre of Royal Ascot, the Queen Anne Enclosure, situated close to the parade ring and the winners enclosure. With atmospheric raised terraces from where to enjoy world class racing and the Royal Procession, followed by the uplifting tradition of singing around the Bandstand, this enclosure ensures you are right at the heart of the action! Please note a formal dress code applies
BURGHLEY
Personal travel planner STARTinG on Friday 15 March, Bedford’s award-winning familyrun independent travel agency, Select Travel Holidays, is pleased to announce their pop-up travel boutique at Studio 281, with personal travel planner Sharon Williams. Every Friday, Sharon will be available for appointments or drop-ins at The Basement of Studio 281, an innovative fitness establishment in Kempston, which takes a holistic approach to fitness and wellbeing. Sharon is well-known in the Kempston area, having lived in the town for many years, and has been in travel since 1977, specialising in cruise holidays. Sharon brings with her a wealth of travel knowledge and is looking forward to offering her years of experience in planning holidays – from long-haul destinations, family holidays to wellness retreats or even solo holidays, cruising or tours, and more - to the people of Kempston. Beyond both businesses being family-run, both Select Travel Holidays and Studio 281 are customer-service led, and with their shared values and ethos feel that this new venture will be a fabulous fit. Whilst personal trainers personalise
THURSDAY 4th JULY – £69pp Includes guided tour of the house, entry to house & gardens, plus 2-course lunch Burghley is one of the greatest Elizabethan Houses, built by William Cecil in the 1500’s. You will enjoy a tour of the house with a specialist guide which will bring the intricate 450 year history of the Cecil Family to life, after which a 2-course lunch will be served in The Orangery Restaurant. After lunch you will also have time to discover the Sculpture Garden and the Gardens of Surprise, and the vast surrounding parklands, landscaped by the great Capability Brown.
CROMER END OF PIER SHOW
THURSDAY 18th JULY – £85pp Includes theatre ticket & 2-course lunch The award wining show returns to the end of the pier for another season of traditional and contemporary variety including show-stopping vocal performances, magic, conjuring, and dancers that bring the glitz and glamour of the West End to this historic theatre. You will also enjoy a pre theatre lunch at the Tides Restaurant, also situated on the pier.
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their clients’ fitness regimes to achieve their goals, Sharon as a personal travel planner personalises her clients’ travel needs, budgets and aspirations to create truly memorable holidays.
WADDESDON MANOR AT CHRISTMAS
THURSDAY 5th DECEMBER – £75pp Price includes house tour, garden entry & festive lunch Experience this breath-taking stately home beautifully decorated for Christmas. With exceptional architecture, art collections and gardens, the estate was built to delight a small circle of Baron Ferdinand’s friends. Your day will begin with a 2-course festive lunch in the Manor Restaurant, followed by a self guided tour of the house. There will also be an opportunity to browse the Manors own Christmas Market set in the grounds.
THURSFORD CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR & FESTIVE LUNCH
WEDNESDAY 18th DECEMBER – £99pp Includes festive lunch & deluxe theatre seats Prior to the show you will enjoy a 2-course festive lunch at The Hourglass, a new venue for this season, in the nearby village of Sculthorpe. Upon arrival at Thursford you will take your “Deluxe” seats for the famous Thursford Christmas Spectacular – the largest Christmas show in the country! Set in the magical surroundings of theatre organs and fairground carousels with world-class performers, this festive theatrical extravaganza is the perfect way to kick off your Christmas celebrations!
THE BLACK COUNTRY MUSEUM
8th AUGUST – £59pp
Includes Introductory talk & entry to the attraction Experience the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of the Black Countries historic past. Set in over 26 acres, the museum celebrates the scale, drama and intensity of the Industrial Revolution. With charismatic ‘residents’, shops, heritage vehicles to ride, a fairground, places to eat and a host of live demonstrations. Witness the glow of the forges, hop on a tram or experience life as a coal miner or life along the canals. MINES AND CANAL TRIPS PAYABLE LOCALLY.
BRICK LANE MUSIC HALL ‘COCKNEY SING-SONG’
CHRISTMAS CAROLS AT THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL
SUNDAY 22nd DECEMBER PLEASE CALL TO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST
WEDNESDAY 11th SEPTEMBER – £85pp Price includes pre show 3-course lunch & theatre ticket Due to demand from last years sold out trip, we return to the Brick Lane Music Hall, tucked away in London’s Docklands. You will be served a traditional 3-course lunch at the venue before enjoying a ‘right royal knees up’ celebrating the spirit of the East End and iconic songs made famous by our iconic Purley Kings and Queens.
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SEPTEMBER 2019
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i
The Great Ouse at Kempston TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
n the January 2019 edition of Kempston Calling it was reported that there may be, in the near future, the possibility of travelling to and from Bedford to Kempston by boat on the Great Ouse river. if the proposed landing stage is constructed just downstream to the bridge which is located close the old mill site this would revive a journey taken by many in the late Victorian and Edwardian ages.
in the January 2019 edition of Kempston Calling it was reported that there may be, in the near future, the possibility of travelling to and from Bedford to Kempston by boat on the Great Ouse river. if the proposed landing stage is constructed just downstream to the bridge which is located close the old mill site this would revive a journey taken by many in the late Victorian and Edwardian ages.
in those days the depth of the river at the bridge was as little as two feet (60cm) so the only boats that were able to make the journey to the bridge and beyond were punts or shallow draft rowing boats mostly in private ownership. Some of these craft belonged to the summer residents of the Chalets that were built in the riverside woodland of Hill Grounds. Other boats reaching Kempston included those that came from the Marina at Whitbread Avenue or from boat hirers such as Chetham’s in Bedford. Those who wished to take this journey in the early part of the 20th century could enjoy a river cruise on one of the Silvery Ouse pleasure craft or ‘Cruise the Ouse’ in relative silence on one of the three electric launches, romantically named Lorna
by Brian Lawson
Doone, Lady Lena and Lodore, owned by the inappropriately named Bedford Steamboat Company. This company, owned by Mr. Harry Burbridge who purchased the property in 1911, operated out of Kempston Marina at Whitbread Avenue. The main point of embarkation for his launches was at the steps close to Bedford Town Bridge where for the princely sum of one shilling (5 new pence) you would spend an hour under the shade of a colourful awning quietly gliding the Ouse downstream to newnham Bridge. Here the launch might take on more passengers, before retracing its route before sailing under the Town and railway bridges and passing the bathing spot on the Queens Park bank when it would turn around and head back to Town. On rare occasions one of the boats from the Marina would turn upstream from its mooring passing Honey Hills with its two islands, Lido and Cafe, and proceed round the long sweep of the curve passing two boathouses until it reached the bankside picnic spot and chalets nestled in the woodlands of Hill Grounds. Passing these it reached the stretch of river just past the island at Kempston Manor where the craft would need to turn around due to the imminent narrowness of the river
and shallow depth of the water. This tranquil pastime was enjoyed over many years with, as far as i know, only one major interruption. This was caused when Herbert Saunderson of 70 Bedford Road Kempston (more famously known for his tractors and aeroplane) took his newly designed weed cutting machine for its first trial at Kempston Mill. it proved so efficient that the great blanket of weed it cut floated downstream and interfered with boating as far as Queens Park Bedford. The Hill Grounds woodland was planted in the 1800’s by its then owner the Reverend Edmund Williamson who also owned the gravel workings bordering them and Kempston Manor. in the mid 1900’s the worked-out gravel pit became a small residential caravan site. The family did much charitable work in Kempston, one of his four daughters Mrs Anne CharlesWilliamson being responsible for providing the funds for the building of the Alms Houses in Bedford Road now known as St. John’s Homes. it was she who ensured that the people of Kempston could freely use the riverside spot for recreation and relaxation. At this site the river is slow and placid and weekend picnics became very popular. From the bank there was a clear view West across hay meadows to All Saints Church and uninterrupted
MARCH 2019 KEMPSTON CALLING —
views towards Bromham. The northern boundary to the picnic site was a rustic fence the other side of which were the riverside meadows of Ham Fields which in my youth was owned by my Great Uncle Alfred Worrall. The strip of the first field by the river was a slope known originally as Forther Hill on which he built a chalet more or less in line with those in the Hill Grounds woodland. On occasion we would picnic here ourselves until sadly, one summer, it was burnt down by vandals. On Alf Worrall’s death the land passed to his son in law Barry Thomas who farmed the land for a time before selling it and the extensive Hill Grounds allotments for housing in the redevelopment programme for Kempston in the 1960’s. Although the Hill Ground woodland and riverside path remain, the chalets and picnic place that were still there to be enjoyed in my childhood have long since disappeared. The woodland was full of wildlife, a veritable bird sanctuary which counted in its population families of jackdaws the fledglings of which local boys would try to catch and tame in the hope of training them to ‘talk’. Returning to the subject of the river at Kempston Mill Bridge there are two well-known features that were enjoyed by the people of Kempston in the 20th Century. The shallow depth of water that lies immediately downstream of the Mill Bridge provided an ideal spot for the children of Kempston to bathe in. Unsurprisingly it became known as the ‘Paddlers’ and extended to what we knew as Kingfisher island located at the confluence of the old river flowing from the sluice near the Parish Church and the main river. in the 1950’s, and probably before, the southern bank on the
Kempston side was a grassed area used extensively for picnicking and from which parents could watch their children play. My brothers and i spent many happy school holidays in these environs and one of our favourite pastimes was catching tiddlers. This we did by using an old Corona soft drinks or wine bottle as a trap. We would knock out the tip of the inverted cone at the base of the bottle, place pieces of bread inside it for bait and lay it on the river bed. Within minutes many minnows (tiddlers) and the odd small Gudgeon would detect the scent of the bread, enter the bottle and, because of the cone, struggle to get out. The boy that caught the most fish in one dunking would be rewarded with an extra piece of cake provided by our mother. Following the count, the bottle would be uncorked and all fish returned to the river. The other place of note by the bridge was the spot used for baptisms in the early 1900’s. This area was about five meters upstream of the bridge and close to the point where the millstream joined the main river. The waters depth was typically an adult’s mid-thigh level at this point. On the first occasion in 1906 it was reported that nearly a thousand onlookers lined the banks and bridge to observe proceedings. The police were in attendance when a Mr. Batts, an itinerant preacher, baptised thirteen initiates. Through my mother i learnt that my Grandfather had witnessed the event and told that one man was so large that when the two handlers leant him backwards for the full immersion they could not support him and he fell to the river bed. Unable to right himself much frantic kicking and struggling followed with a spluttering and unceremoniously swearing supplicant eventually
being pulled back onto his feet. An amusing tale also told by my mother was of the swimming place known as ‘the bends’, about fifty metres from the bridge by the outlet of the old mill pond where the mill race from the waterwheels disgorged. The water was deeper here and only suitable for people who could swim well. in her day Tommy Hutchins, a veteran of the war who lived in ‘Rabbit Hutch Row’ in Bunyan Road would often appear, remove his wooden leg, hop to the bank and dive in without embarrassment or fear. One day one of the girls who accompanied Mum decided to hide his leg under her skirts whilst he was in the water. A real rumpus ensued when, on returning to the bank, he found that his leg was missing. The girls were too scared to tell him where it was but could not contain their laughter as he hopped around looking for it. Apparently, all ended well when his leg was returned, with apologies and kisses, and he saw the funny side of the joke. To many locals, like myself, the stretch of river from the ‘Overs’ (the old overflows that regulated the head of water in the mill stream and were located about half a mile upstream of the bridge) to Honey Hills was arguably one of the most quintessentially English of rivers. A meandering course between verdant meadows from whose overhanging trees Kingfishers hunted and under whose branches water birds nested. Today the stretch from the bridge to the ‘Overs’ is unrecognisable as a result of the concrete weir and, efficient but ugly, straight channel put in its place as part of the flood prevention measures by the River Ouse Board in the early 1970’s. ©Brian Lawson 2019
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10 — KEMPSTON CALLING
MARCH 2019
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Get involved with the first KickOff@3 football tournament Local companies and businesses are invited to sponsor Bedfordshire Police’s charity KickOff@3 football tournament, part of a national initiative organised by police forces across the country in a bid to engage with young people they wouldn’t normally reach. The Bedfordshire tournament will take place on Sunday 28 April at AFC Kempston Rovers and is currently encouraging boys
and girls aged between 13 and 16 to enter a seven-a-side team, with the aim of representing the county at the national final in London later in the year. Part of the team’s entry fee will be donated to the charity Embrace, which works with child victims of crime and the rest will go towards the national KickOff@3 initiative.
Paul Griffiths, School Support Officer at Bedfordshire Police, said: “The aim of this tournament is to build and strengthen the relationships we currently have with our community partners and so we are looking for community groups, businesses or charities to support and sponsor the event. “The level of sponsorship we are looking for is a £150 donation, and in return we will
feature your company’s logo across all of the advertising and promotion for the event and you will be named as a working partner. Our flyers will be circulated amongst all Bedfordshire FA teams, as well as all schools across the county. “The sponsoring companies will also be invited to the tournament and will have the opportunity to engage with the public and
give their support to a great community event and we hope this will be the start of something that we grow in the future.” For more information on how to support the event, please contact Paul Griffiths on paul.griffiths@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk if you are interested in finding out more about the tournament, please see the KickOff@3 national website.
Recognising Emmaus’s work for a friend in THE centenary year of Bedford Queens Rugby Club, the club decided to hold a memorial lunch and game for a former player, Richard Coates. Richard’s story follows this introduction. The game took place on December 8, 2018, between Queen’s Unbreakables and Bedford Athletic All Stars. it was followed by a lunch which was shared with Bedford Athletic. A raffle and personal donations raised £720.20 for the Emmaus community at Carlton. Jamie Coates, Richard’s brother Captained Queens and scored the final try to win the game 20-7. Richard died in the summer of 2014 after struggling with depression and alcoholism. Richard loved rugby! He played Colts Rugby (18 and under) at Bedford Athletic as a prop forward. Then he did his apprenticeship at WH Allen (Rolls Royce) in Bedford. Richard was also involved in the WH Allen Rugby team that played for a number of years after the factory’s centenary in 1994. He also worked as a doorman in his early twenties around Bedford. He played rugby at Bedford Athletic, Bedford Colts, and represented East Midlands and was on the bench for them when they got to Twickenham. Richard joined the Prison Service and relocated to London to work at HMP Wandsworth, predominately working with paedophiles. The work was especially challenging and one can only imagine what he saw and heard. Whist living in Wandsworth Richard played for a local rugby team called
RICHARD’S STORY
Tooting Bec. He ended up being first team captain. He was recognized as a quality player and played in an invitational side that played and beat Finland. Richard was a big character he was outspoken and a lovable rogue. But also quite a private man, and surprisingly to some an avid reader. What wasn’t recognised was that he was struggling with depression and then alcohol. it turns out it is pretty hard to spot an alcoholic in a rugby club! it was only when the evidence was overwhelming that the level of the problem came to light. Richard received the help that he required at Emmaus Carlton and it transformed him. He had support, structure, and a role in life up until circumstances meant that he could not stay there any longer. it was during this time at Emmaus that he was at his happiest, they were flexible with his work commitments there and allowed him to play rugby at Queens Rugby Club. After leaving Emmaus he took himself off to Seattle in America, but the lack of support and structure and the lure of alcohol was a situation that was never going to have a positive outcome. He died in Seattle after all efforts to get him to return failed. His memorial was in early July 2014 and he was laid to rest at St Mark’s Church, Bedford. As a man whose roles were all pretty much alpha male, Rugby prop forward, doorman, prison officer... it was hard for him to show weakness. Richard’s message to his fellow players would be: don’t be too proud to ask for help, as its those who ask for help that recover.
Angela Foll, Chief Community Officer receives cheque from left to right: Mick Norman (Queens RUFC Chairman), Jamie Coates (Richard’s brother), Martha Coates (Jamie’s daughter) and Richard Pippett.
Do you have the desire to make a real difference to the lives of young children and young people of Kempston?
The Trustees and Local Governing Bodies of the Challenger Multi Academy Trust are looking to add to the talent and expertise of our local governing bodies in Kempston and seek interested, keen and passionate people who may have relevant skills and expertise to help lead and inspire the staff, parents, community and children and young people of our three academies in Kempston.
Kempston Challenger Federation
Chair: Frank Green, CBE Chief Executive Officer: Stephen Chamberlain
Our three academies in Kempston are already engaged on a journey of close collaboration and from September 2018 will work more formally together under the banner of the Kempston Challenger Federation. They are in the process of developing a compelling and visionary ‘Kempston Curriculum’ from early years through to an exciting post-16 provision. This is a unique and exciting opportunity to be part of one of CMAT’s Local Governing Bodies in Kempston and to help further develop partnerships within the new federation and with the local community. We are looking for governors who share the values and aspirations of each academy and the overall mission, vision and values of CMAT with our focus on ‘Character Education’ and ‘Learning Outside the Classroom’. Parent and staff governors are represented through an election process within each academy but parents can also apply to be appointed as governors by the trust.
You will receive: // Full support and training as part of an induction programme with the Trust. // On going training and support from the Director of Education and Head of Governance // Support of a National Leader of Governance // An opportunity to train to become a CMAT LGB Chair/Vice Chair // An opportunity to become part of the Executive Board of Governors for the Federation // Termly meetings with the Chair of the Trust and CEO for Chairs/Vice Chairs
‘Leaders, the LGB and staff share the Trust’s vision and ambition for the school. Leaders and the chair of the LGB are clear about how their improvement plans will achieve the Trust’s aims.’ Ofsted 2018 ‘The LGB knows the school well. The LGB has a good understanding of how leaders’ actions have contributed to improvements in achievement, the quality of teaching, and behaviour.’ Ofsted 2018
Challenger Multi-Academy Trust registered office - Kempston Challenger Academy, Hill Rise, Kempston, Bedford MK42 7EB
If you feel you have relevant skills and experience in areas such as education, finance, human resources, business, ICT, health and safety, administration, health and well being, estates management, governance, emergency services, community or social enterprise, volunteering or any other related fields we would be interested to talk to you. For further information and an informal discussion with the Chief Executive please contact:
Jo Carr, Executive Assistant to the CEO jcarr@challengermat.org Telephone: 01234 290900 CLOSING DATE: Tuesday 30th April 2019
challengermultiacademytrust.org
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
MARCH 2019 KEMPSTON CALLING —
11
gardening Garden notes READy. Steady. Sow. That has to be the theme for this month as in theory now is the time to start sowing most things in the garden or under cover for the less hardy things. Of course, we cannot say okay its March, let’s put every thing in. As with everything timing is crucial. i don’t say to myself it isn’t raining and it is not freezing so i am going to put in my carrots and parsnips say. i like to look at the ground and decide if it is fit to sow. if the ground is wet then it is going to be cold whatever the weather at the time. ideally the ground should be on the dry side an be starting to get a bit crumbly and if the sun is shining as well then that is even better. Rake the soil well to break down most of the bigger lumps and then make a drill according to the instructions on the seed packet and sow the seed sparingly. if your ground is fairly heavy clay as a lot of the soil hereabouts is, then make a bigger drill about two or three inches deep and fill it with fine compost. Sow your deeds into that and they will get a better start. Often the seed packets tell you to water the drill before sowing. At this time of year i would only do that in exceptional circumstances. Lots of us start our tomatoes and
cucumbers and the like about now which is fine if you have got a propagator or heated green house or the like, but if you haven’t then leave most of them for a month and just start a few to get ahead of the game. A warm window sill is fine to just get two or three going but once they are up they need lots of light to stop them getting leggy. if you have a good relationship with a significant other you can do what i did in January and start them in the bathroom. Ours is like a tropical rainforest so they got off to a flying start. i must say though that the tomatoes are the favourite of my significant other or catering as she is also known. in the middle of February i planted a row of early potatoes in my polytunnel to try and get an early start but now we can plant them in the vegetable garden and they should be fine. Just in case we should get another summer like last year, plant earlies, seconds and mains all at the same time if you have the ground free. That way they should get a better start and give a bigger crop. Onion sets can also go in now, but if you grow red onions i think it is better to put them in a fortnight later to reduce the possibility of bolting. Richard Callaghan
MS Tree Care Martyn Smith – Arboculturist with over 10 years experience ● ● ●
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Vegee,vegan or omnivore growing your own veg is good for you
conditions as Tomatoes and Cucumbers namely fibrous compost, regular watering and feeding weekly with tomato food. For sweet bell peppers try California Wonder, or Colour Spectrum for red orange yellow lime and deep purple coloured fruits, brilliant for using in salads. i also grow Pak Choi a quick growing oriental brassica closely related to cabbage and very nutritious. Basil, the herb for a lot of italian cooking and Coriander the oriental equivalent if sown every two weeks will provide an unlimited supply and can be dried or frozen for winter use.
by Maureen Catlin Milton Ernest Garden Centre HE Buzz Word in 2018 was Vegan and as the media attention has already started to focus this year on getting healthy and not just thinner they are advocating a much lower meat diet to be replaced by more vegetables and whole grain food so although not vegan definitely a move towards a vegetable based diet. So in 2019 we should really focus on growing our own Veg. Last month we talked about root vegetables, some greens, courgettes and runner beans but there is so much more that we can grow ourselves no matter how large or small your garden. There is something special about being able to pick, cook and eat all that lovely freshness that you have grown. So what else can one garden realistically produce each year with only the initial investment in some Fruit Trees and Bushes and a few packets of seeds. Well an awful lot especially if you invest in a Polytunnel or Greenhouse or have a really sheltered hotspot in the garden you can grow the Mediterranean vegetables Tomatoes, Peppers, Cucumbers and herbs like Basil and Coriander will all grow well outside, where there is sun and shelter, or in a Polytunnel or Greenhouse in pots, Grobags or directly in the well prepared soil. i would suggest germinating the seeds on the kitchen window sill and only planting in the Greenhouse from April onwards or outside towards the end of May when the warmer weather comes. Alternatively you can buy the plants from the Garden Centre but there will not be the choice of varieties. Tomatoes are the most popular and what a choice of seed varieties there are out there. For the little sweet cherry tomatoes look for Gardeners Delight, a popular old favourite or Red Cherry which is early and very sweet. Maskotka is ideal for pots or 18 inch hanging baskets. For regular size tomatoes Alicante is a reliable favourite for
T
growing inside or out while Akron is well shaped and excellent flavour for indoors. Cucumbers are another profitable crop. One plant will produce at least one cucumber a week in season and if you grow the mini varieties like Socrates a lot
more. These mini varieties have all the qualities of Telegraph types and only produce female flowers so you can have a fresh cucumber for every salad. Peppers and Chillies are also useful additions to grow. They require the same growing
American Land Cress is the next best thing to watercress to grow. it likes a shady spot with lots of moisture and is hardy so plant in rich moisture retaining soil. Water regularly and pick all through the year to use in salads. Rocket is another useful quick growing green salad vegetable. it has a distinct peppery nutty flavour and should be harvested and used at once. if you plant a 12 inch pot with Mixed Rocket every two weeks you will have a continuous supply.
The new kids on the block are the Microgreens. They are seedlings of edible vegetables and herbs which are harvested by cutting the leaves with scissors less than one month after germination when the true leaves are about two inches tall.
They can be used as garnishes, in salads or sandwiches and are rich in concentrated nutrients and delicious intense flavours. Grow on the kitchen window sill in small containers approximately 20cm by 10cm in rich peaty soil throughout the year.
Keep moist by spraying with water daily. The varieties to grow are Fothergills Mixed Spicey Leaves, Mixed Mild Salad Leaves, Unwins Fenugreek, Mustard Red Frills, Broccoli, Kale, Basil Dark Opel, Purple Radish, Beetroot and Komatsuna. Add to your morning smoothie for a daily pick me up.
Next Month: Grow your own Fruit Basket.
FREE HOT X BUN OFFER ENDS 31/3/19
WITH ANY TEA OR COFFEE www.miltonernestgardencentre.co.uk Tel: 01234 823033
MILT ON ERNEST GARDEN C ENTRE Radwell Road (just off the A6) Milton Ernest MK44 1SH
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Renowned for culinary excellence and innovative spirit, Silversea’s luxury cruises offer a choice of open-seating dining options throughout the fleet, as well as several specialty venues. Enjoy the ease, convenience and value of an all-inclusive cruise fare that includes almost all of your discretionary onboard expenses, including unlimited free Wi-Fi, plus beverages including champagne, wines and spirits both in suite and throughout the ship.
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TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
MARCH 2019 KEMPSTON CALLING —
13
out & about special guests Benny Golson and Curtis Fuller. Then followed an album with nyJO. ‘Something Old, Something new’ (nyJCD023) was something of a debut record for Atila, and his performance being described by All about jazz; “he’s only a step or two away from becoming one of the finest young jazz singers to emerge in quite some time” 18th March Sammy Mayne - Alto Saxophone 25th March Ofer Landsberg - Guitar, shortly after his arrival in new york, aged seventeen, Jazz guitarist Ofer Landsberg was performing regularly with Jazz Greats such as; pianist Frank Hewitt, legendary drummer Jimmy Lovelace, pianist Gil Coggins and Jimmy Wormsworth. Distinguishing himself as a striking talent and key player within the scene, he frequently fronted gigs at the celebrated clubs “Smalls” and “Fat Cat” including musicians; Ari Roland, Zaid nasser, Mike Mullins, Dwayne Clemons, Chris Byars and Sacha Perry. it was also during this time when Ofer met the famous Barry Harris and became a steady participant of his workshops. Regularly performing early and late shows at Ronnie Scott’s, Cable Cafe, Kansas Smitty’s and many other venues across London.
Jazz at The White Horse
Bedford Corn Exchange Saturday 23rd March
Black grape could only have been made in Manchester. The swagger, fun and cryptic humour seem hewn from a city that offers a different way of English urban life to London. Both Shaun Ryder and Paul Leveridge, known as Kermit, came from edgy-but-cool parts of the city. in Shaun’s case Salford, with Kermit originating Moss Side. So we have two restlessly creative men, both from the wrong side of the tracks, neither inclined to go to art school or enrol on an MFA programme, yet loaded with street smarts and musical talent, and wanting the world. Good old punk had told every scally they could have it, and a generation went for it in their own ways, with varying degrees of success. Shaun’s astonishing rise and fall with the Happy Mondays is the stuff of legend. As the friendship developed, so too did a stunning collaboration. it’s Great When you’re Straight...yeah,
the ironically entitled album, gave a nod to their hook up as drugs buddies around the grizzled fag end of Happy Mondays and Kermit’s band The Ruthless Rap Assassins. it was a storming phoenix rising from the ashes of the other projects that seemed to have run their course. Black Grape followed this up with Stupid, Stupid, Stupid. Then...nothing… until now. Black Grape are back on the road, and with new album Pop Voodoo – a rewind to over twenty years ago and the glory days. Shaun’s word play has never been deployed to such devastating effect, and he scores a bullseye whether he hits the obvious targets (Trump), and the more obscure ones... Special guests for the evening is Collapsed Lung Formed 1992, Harlow, Essex, UK. Beats, bass, guitar. Expect to hear top 20 hit ‘Eat My Goal’ and some other gems, the perfect warm up to the evening.... Tickets £25 from Seetickets & the central box office: 01234718044 & www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk. Locally with no booking fee from Slide Record Shop and Mario’s Hair Design. Free after show party at Esquires!
THE
conclub
KEMPSTON 01234 851120 Saturday 9th March THE KING OF SOUL AND MOTOWN BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND
MICKEY THIS GUY BLEW US AWAY LAST TIME HE WAS HERE – THIS IS HIS ONLY DATE FOR THE YEAR SO DON’T MISS IT Saturday 16th March ANOTHER REQUESTED SINGER/ GUITARIST TO HAVE BACK
PHIL SHORT Saturday 23rd BIG BAND NIGHT WITH THE FABULOUS
V.I.PEAS Saturday 30th March IT’S OUR BIG SKA/ REGGEA NIGHT WITH THE FANTASTIC VOICE OF
DANNY
Saturday 6th April 70’s DISCO – WITH THE AMAZING
REBECCA ARMSTRONG THIS LADY’S VOICE WILL AMAZE YOU DIARY DATES Sunday 21st April Kids’ Easter Party from 3.30pm, then
Daley’s
Saturday 2nd March
Bedford Road, Kempston 01234 851143
INIS EIRE
Saturday 23rd March
FUNCTION ROOM FOR
HIRE SUITABLE FOR AL L OCCASIONS
★★★★★★★★ ★★★★
KARAOKE in the bar starts 9pm
THREE PIECE IRISH BAND in the bar 8.30pm ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ Saturday 9th March
★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
80s DISCO in the bar starts 8.30pm
Saturday 16th March
Saturday 30th March
DR SKA DISCO in the bar starts 9pm
Saturday 6th April
★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
FREEWAY BLUE EYED SOUL F
LIVE BAND in the bar 9pm
LIVE BAND in the bar 9pm
★★★★★★★★ ★
NEWLY REFURBIS HED Holds up to
120 FLEXIBLE SEATIN G ARRANGEMEN TS ★★★★★★★★
NEW AIR CON SYSTEM IN FUNCTION ROOM
★★★★★★★★ ★★★★★
SNOOKER TABLES £3 PER HOUR
www.facebook.com/daleysclub Email: daleysclub@outlook.com
★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Tues, Weds, Thurs 3pm–12midnight – Fri-Sat 12am-1am – Sun-Mon 12noon-12midnight
SOPHIA SOUL IN THE EVENING Saturday 4th May THE FANTASTIC DUO
SHOTOKAN KARATE
NEW HARMONY Sunday 5th May Is our big CHARITY EVENT for Sands Bedford and Faces of Bedford. raffles and auction prizes needed if you can help Saturday 11th may
Sunday 31st March
SOUL MAN
OPEN MIC
Membership still being taken only £10 A year to see and hear the best live entertainment every Saturday
ALL WELCOME
ALL NIGHTS ARE FREE
“Sweet NEW LOOK – NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED as a nut”
★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Black Grape + Guests Collapsed Lung
This venue hosts many of London’s Top musicians at their weekly event ‘Monday night Jazz at The White Horse’, hosted by Mark Hale. 4th March, Christian Brewer (right) (Alto Saxophone), is one of the most lyrical and soulful alto players to have emerged from the UK in recent years. Loved for his melodic playing and pure tone, he has risen to prominence on the British jazz scene. He is now a regular at London’s prestigious Ronnie Scots and both he and his band are in great demand. 11th March Atila Huseyin is an established Jazz singer from the UK. Sartorially stylish and musically classy, his interpretations of the American Songbook are internationally renowned, taking influence from early Frank Sinatra. He began music professionally aged 15 with local big band ‘young Jazz’. First playing saxophone, but then encouraged by Phil Revens to sing, Atila was at ease in front of the big band. He was invited by Bill Ashton to feature with the national youth Jazz Orchestra in 2002. Atila learned his craft with nyJO, following extensive UK touring he fronted the group on the norwegian Sun Jazz Cruise, with
Have you tried a martial art before and didn’t like it or couldn’t get on with it? Never tried it before? Why not try it in a fun filled safe environment in a family orientated atmosphere?
BEGINNERS & ADVANCED CLASSES
ARATs E TRY K t rse star Cou SDAY WEDNE RCH A M 13th 0pm .3 6 @
At Balliol School, Balliol Rd, Kempston (Est 1990)
ON MONDAYS & WEDNESDAYS
7th Dan instructor with over 40 years experience, professionally qualified, certificated, insured, trained in first aid and child protection.
ENQUIRIES 01234 853847 www.cfts-karate .co.uk / email akidby@hotmail.com
● COMPREHENSIVE SELF DEFENCE SYSTEM ● SPORTS & TRADITIONAL KARATE COVERED ● SUITS ALL AGES OF BOTH SEXES (MINIMUM AGE SIX) ● HIGHLY EXPERIENCED 7TH DAN INSTRUCTOR ● FULLY QUALIFIED, INSURED & CERTIFICATED BY CRB MARTIAL ARTS STANDARDS AGENCY & THE ENGLISH KARATE GOVERNING BODY ● KARATE IMPROVES: HEALTH & FITNESS, SELF-CONFIDENCE, CONCENTRATION, PHYSICAL AGILITY, MENTAL ABILITY, AIDS WEIGHT LOSS, RELIEVES STRESS
14 — KEMPSTON CALLING
MARCH 2019
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
BEDFORD FOLK DAnCE CLUB
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COUNTRY AND FOLK DANCE CLUB
MONTHLY SALE
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Thursday evenings 8pm – 10pm
Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford MK41 8EB its good fun for only £2.50 including refreshments no partner required. Ron Law 01234 825574 www.bedfordfolkdanceclub.com
–––––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORDSHiRE FAMiLy HiSTORy SOCiETy 7.15p.m. Friday 1st March 2019 Interested in Family History?
Then come along to the next monthly talk on
‘Up with the Lark – Agricultural Labourers’ by ian Waller
Drama Hall, Mark Rutherford School
Wentworth Drive, Bedford MK41 8PX Members free, visitors £1. www.bfhs.org.uk
–––––––––––––––––––––– COWPER & NEWTON MUSEUM 10:30 to 4:30pm Tuesday 5th March 2019
Come inside to learn all about 18th century life on Pancake Day in Olney, interpreted beautifully with Heritage Lottery funding.
See our Georgian ladies and gentlemen taking in the beneficial Olney morning air as we promenade around the Market Place! Usual museum admission applies.
–––––––––––––––––––––– STEADY ACouSTIC
FOLK SESSION
7.30 last Tuesday of the month at
THE BuRNABY ARMS, STANlEY STREET, BEDFoRD MK41 7Ru. All abilities
Beginners very welcome.
info from Mike 01234 308449
Facebook: Burnaby steady session see also Bedfordshire beginners melodeon playgroup
–––––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORD nATiOnAL TRUST ASSOCiATiOn
Meeting on 19th March 2019 at 2.30 in the Addison Centre, Kempston
John Greening, poet.
John introduces a selection of his poems, and shows how they have been shaped by particular places, from the Pyramids of Giza to the Cardington Sheds. Everyone welcome - small charge For more details ring Betty Thomas on 01480 860 421.
–––––––––––––––––––––– GRIFFIN FOOTBALL CLUB REUNION
A reunion for all ex players has
been arranged for 27th April 2019 at Kempston Rovers Clubhouse
if you are interested please contact Bob Mitchell on 01234 327631
or email bobmitchell1945@yahoo.co.uk Please spread the word
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OUSE RiVER RnLi FUnDRAiSinG GROUP (LiFEBOATS)
ANNUAL BRIDGE DRIVE THuRSDAY 21 MARCH 10.15 for 10.45 am
RoXToN VIllAGE HAll, RoXToN MK44B 3uB
Coffee on arrival, Fork Lunch, and Raffle
Tickets £16 Available from Janet Mcnair Tel: 01767 225341 / email netmcnair@hotmail.co.uk before March 7th
–––––––––––––––––––––– IRISH CEILI AND SET DANCING Wednesdays 8pm to 10 pm
£2 per session – first evening free
no partner required. Beginners welcome. The Reading Room, 1, Barkers lane, Bedford.
Ring Pat 01234 308224 for more details.
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BEDS & nORTHAnTS MS THERAPy CEnTRE
Third Saturday of every month 10am - 12.00 noon Entrance 50p Adults FREE PARKinG Clothing, Bric a Brac, Books, Linen, Toys and Games Refreshments available 155 Barkers Lane, Bedford. MK41 9RX Tel: 01234 325781 www.mscentrebedsandnorthants.com
–––––––––––––––––––––– OOMPAH BAND EVENING
at Rushden Station Saturday, 30th March 2019 THE BIERKEllER SCHuNKlERS will provide a fantastic evening of Bavarian merrymaking, with singing, dancing, marching and much, much more! Bavarian food and bar with German beer also available! Doors open 7.30. £10 per person. Please go to www.ticketsource.co.uk/rushdenhistorical-transport-society to book
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BEDFORD FLORAL ART SOCiETy March 5th meeting at the Addison Centre, Kempston at 7.30pm with Sharon Badger and her demonstration
‘A Vision for the Future’ Visitors welcome £7.
–––––––––––––––––––––– ADDiSOn CEnTRE KEMPSTOn
FUND RAISING TEA DANCE
MoNDAY 11th MARCH 2019 2.00pm to 4.30pm £3.00 (inCL CUPPA)
–––––––––––––––––––––– 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
–––––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORD RSPB LOCAL GROUP Meet at ARA club, Manton Lane Bedford MK41 7PF. Thursday March 21st at 7.30pm Ben Macdonald, conservation writer and wildlife television researcher presents
‘Rebirding: Restoring our birds and rewilding our landscapes’ Suitable for Experts and novices, RSPB membership not essential. Entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 annual group membership £5 Reg. Charity no. 207076, more info www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford
–––––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTOn MUSiCAL SOCiETy
PASSIONTIDE BRING AND SING CONCERT
Kempston Musical Society will be performing Stainer’s Crucifixion for Passiontide on Saturday 6th April at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Midland Road, Bedford. Proceeds will be donated to St. Francis Support of Orphans and Vulnerable Children in northern Uganda charity. Singers - £5. Rehearsal – 4pm. Music and Refreshments provided. Dress – white top, Black bottom. The concert will start at 7.00pm. Tickets for the evening concert will cost £6, to include refreshments. This will be a most enjoyable evening and we look forward to seeing you. To find out more about this concert, all our forthcoming concerts or information about the choir please call 01234 781010 or email prestissimo@btinternet.com.
–––––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON GARDENS ASSOCIATION
if you are interested gardening why not come along to our meetings. 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 For further information contact Trevor on 01234 856040 or Marian on 01234 855288
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BINGO
Kempston Hammers Club (Cutler) Kempston Hammers Sports and Social Club Monthly Bingo, last Wednesday of the month £1 pay on door
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–––––––––––––––––––––– ARTiSTS nETWORK BEDS invites you to an
BEDFORD ORGAN & KEYBOARD CLUB
ART EXHIBITION
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in Poplars Garden Centre, Toddidngton, learning Zone on Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 March from 10.30-5 each day
A wide range of paintings and 3D artwork will be on show throughout the weekend. Come along and meet some of our artists. Everyone will be very welcome.
–––––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTOn MUSiCAL SOCiETy
HAYDN’S CREATION
Kempston Musical Society, together with invited soloists, will be performing Haydn’s Creation on Saturday 27th April 2019.
The event will take place at Kempston East Methodist Church, Kempston. The evening will start at 7.30pm and is sure to be an enjoyable night. Tickets will be available on the door and will cost £8.50 and will include refreshments. To find out more about all our forthcoming concerts or information about the choir please call 01234 781010 or email prestissimo@btinternet.com.
–––––––––––––––––––––– BROMHAM SCOUT GROUP
JUMBLE SALE
Saturday 23 March 2019 from 1pm.
Village Hall, Village Road, Bromham, Bedford, MK34 9JP. Clothing & textiles – includes nearly new. Bags & shoes.
Books, vinyl, CDs & DVDs. Jigsaws, toys & games. Bric-a-brac - includes electrical, kitchen, garden, tools & small furniture. 50p entry. Refreshments available.
Bus no 41 – Bedford to northampton/Stagsden – stops outside.
Quality jumble at bargain prices. Registered Charity no 300445. Please note the EARlIER START TIME 1pm
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THE ADDISON CENTRE CONCERT BY ORGANIST
MARK THOMPSON WEDS 27 MARCH 7.30 – 10.00pm TEA, COFFEE/BAR/RAFFLE ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Members £5 PAY AT Non-Members £6 DOOR –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Contact: 01234 344423 www/Organfax/clubs/Bedford
–––––––––––––––––––––– MiLTOn ERnEST GARDEn CEnTRE
CERAMIC FLOWERS
Pots of Fun would like you to join them at on Saturday 9th of March between 2pm-4pm
Pots of Fun would like you to join them Saturday 16th of March between 2pm-4pm
for ceramic painting (suitable for all ages). Hand and footprints, they would make an excellent gift for Mother’s Day. Price from £5 open session no need to book. For more details call Sue on 01234 860810 or email suenewman@potsoffun.co.uk
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CPRE
Please join us for a fun
7.45pm, Thursday 14 Mar 2019
84 Newnham Road, Bedford MK41 9PX
BUnyAn MEETinG
Tickets £18, Students 18-24 £5, Under 18 £2 on the door or from 01234 261811 www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk
–––––––––––––––––––––– BLACK 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. Children with SEnD are warmly welcomed and sessions are differentiated to meet individual needs. Sessions are £5 per child (siblings £3). www.blackcricket.co.uk/kids-club www.facebook.com/blackcricketkidsclub Email: kidsclub@blackcricket.co.uk
–––––––––––––––––––––– ALL SAinTS PARiSH CHURCH KEMPSTOn
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
–––––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON SENIOR CITIZENS’ CLUB DAnCinG, WHiST, BinGO
Meets Wednesday 10am-12noon Friday 10am-4.00pm
CEnTEnARy HALL behind Kempston Town Hall, Bedford Road For further information telephone: 01234 347306
–––––––––––––––––––––– THE WiLDLiFE TRUST BEDFORD LOCAL GROUP
Bedfordshire Orchards Survey an illustrated talk by Steve Halton Wednesday 13th March 2019 meeting at 7-15pm for 7-30 pm start
Priory Methodist Church Hall, Newnham Avenue Bedford MK41 9QJ
Plenty of parking available in Church car park. no charge but voluntary contributions are appreciated. Further details available under Events on www.wildlifebcn.org or at 01234 266057
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Families and school children in Bedford will be treated to a brand new cultural experience this year with Who is Bedford? An interactive show exploring the heritage of Bedford and the people who live here. With over 50 ethnicities represented in the town, Bedford is one of the most culturally diverse towns of its size in the UK. Who is Bedford? is a celebration of everything that makes Bedford the vibrant town it is today. With funding from national Lottery Heritage Fund, Bedfordshire’s Full House Theatre have combined interactive audio technol-
MOTHER’S DAY GIFTS
QUIZ EVENING
Mozart, Mendelssohn, Dvorak
New show for children explores cultural heritage of Bedford March – June 2019
ogy with real stories, working in partnership with The Higgins Museum for inspiration. “it has been so exciting to create a show with and for the people of Bedford, our local town. We’ve worked with cultural, religious and heritage groups, as well as the wonderful school children of Bedford, to produce a fun experience that all the family can enjoy”. – Ben Miles and Harriet Hardie, Creative Directors, Full House Theatre. Who is Bedford? will tour Bedford’s schools and community spaces between February – June 2019, including Queen’s Park Community Centre and The Higgins Museum. Schools can contact Full House Theatre to book a show in their school. For further details and booking go to: www.fullhouse.org.uk
to make Ceramic Flowers, Age 11 and up. £10 includes materials and a drink, only 12 spaces available, to reserve a place or to find out more call Sue on 01234 860810 or email suenewman@potsoffun.co.uk
MUSIC ON THURSDAYS Zelkova String Quartet
Who is Bedford?
Thursday 28th March 2019 The White Horse Pub, From 7.30pm
Everyone very welcome
For more information please contact us on 01234 353331 Or email events@cprebeds.org.uk
–––––––––––––––––––––– WORLD SHIP SOCIETY BEDFORD BRANCH Kempston Constitution Club
196A Bedford Road, Kempston 3rd THURSDAy in the month Telephone: 01234 352014
–––––––––––––––––––––– 3T’S TODDLER GROUP
CARSUNDAYS BOOT SALES 10am-2pm
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, 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
MILTON ERNEST GARDEN CENTRE
TIDDLYWINKS TODDLER PLAYGROUP
Radwell Road, Milton Ernest MK44 1SH Teas, Coffee, Breakfast, Snacks in Café
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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
–––––––––––––––––––––– 60TH ANNIVERSARY REUNION
of the 1st Kempston Boys’ Brigade will take place on Saturday, February 9th 2019, 7pm at Kempston East Methodist Hall. There will also be a PARADE on Sunday February 10th at 10:30am
An open invitation is extended to ALL past members. Please spread the word!
For details or to attend, please contact Dave Simms on 07985643678 or kempstonbb.pma@gmail.com
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: 17th March, 28th April, 19th May, 16th June, 21st July, 25th August, 22nd September & 20th October
Sellers set up from 8.30am, £5 per car £10 per van
For pitch enquiries contact Simon 01234 823033 E: simongoatley@miltonernestgardencentre.co.uk
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
Something old – something new
Elstow Abbey Church has something for everyone with events and activities indoor and out. Very old is the original church door and its inner wicker gate, now propped up inside the building - but clearly visible in the historic stained glass window depicting part of the story of A Pilgrim’s Progress, for centuries the second best-selling book to the Bible (only over taken in recent years by Harry Potter). The links with author John Bunyan keep this location on the international tourism map with customers from America, South Korea and Europe stopping off to enjoy afternoon teas in the cottage garden at the rear of the church (opens at Easter). Very new was the St Valentine’s weekend “dresses through the decades” promotional event where brides brought along their gowns from the 50s - 2000s for a special show. innovative Vicar, The Rev. Father Paul Messan encouraged his lovely volunteers to put on a Pop-Up
cafe inside the church to refresh visitors at the event. Added Father Paul: “We’re a great combination of old and new here. We had a pop-up cafe for the weekend run by the lovely team who host the cottage garden tea rooms from Easter onwards. We have outdoor theatre, indoor music concerts and much more. “People do not realise how easy it is to get married in church now – you no longer have to live in the parish but simply have some connections. Familiesdon’t live and die in the same village anymore - but they like to keep up traditions such as marrying where mum and dad or grandparents were wed. We’re here to help!” www.elstow-abbey.org.uk
MARCH 2019 KEMPSTON CALLING —
15
WOOTTON ACADEMY TRUST
SPRING CONCERT Tickets: Adults £5.00 Concessions £3.00
School Theatre Hall, 7.30 p.m.
Venue: Woo on Upper School, Hall End Road, Woo on, Beds MK43 9HT School Box O ce: 01234 767123
Wednesday 27th March, 2019
COMMUNITY PRIORITY SETTING MEETING Wednesday 6th March at 19:00 at Kempston Challenger Academy, Hill Rise, Kempston MK42 7EB.
Find out about what the team have been up to regarding the current priority of drug dealing, hear the latest crime stats and be part of deciding what the next priority for the area should be.
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