MAY 2017
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2 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017
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KEMPSTON TOWN COUNCIL 104 Bedford Road, Kempston, Bedford, MK42 8BG Tel: 01234 851005 www.kempstontowncouncil.com Email: kempstoncouncil@btconnect.com Office hours: 10am to 3pm Monday to Friday
MEETINGS TAKING PLACE IN MAY/JUNE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING
9 May at 6.00pm
PLANNING COMMITTEE
9 May at 6.30pm
ANNUAL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
9 May at 7.30pm
PLANNING COMMITTEE
13 June at 6.30pm
TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
13 June at 7.30pm
ANNUAL PARISH MEETING for Kempston residents
Tuesday 9 May 2017 at 6.00pm In the Council Chamber 104 Bedford Road Kempston MK42 8BG
Council firm against incinerator plans Kempston Town Council is concerned about the planned incinerator at Rookery Pit, Marston and the implications for Kempston. They have shown support for Bedfordshire Against Covanta Incinerator. Against local opposition, planning permission has already been granted but an Environment Permit is also needed before it can be operational. Kempston Town Council has joined over twenty other councils in the area, asking the Environmental Agency to allow more time for responses and public consultation on the Permit Application. The application was first advertised 3rd March with an initial consultation period of 20 days. It was subsequently extended to April 18th. However the signatories to the letter believe that is not
long enough to respond to the numerous areas of environmental concern that include amongst others• There has been significant population growth that includes a new College during the six years since the planning documents were submitted by Covanta. • There are major concerns about possible health issues due to emissions that may include ash from the incinerator. • Planning permission has already been granted for a massive extra 594 traffic movements a day. Covanta estimate that there will be an additional 100 vehicles to allow for staff and visitors. Can the roads in the area cope? What if there are major diversions through the countryside? • All these HGV’s and other
vehicles will be emitting their fumes into the atmosphere too. It is understood that London is about to impose a £20 charge to take one diesel car into the City because of the dangerous emissions. Covanta will be running 500+ diesel lorries per day! • Noise, Odour and Light pollution in quiet countryside that includes the Marston Vale Forest area. • Although the incinerator is not planned for Kempston, the Council feels that many of the issues associated with the incinerator could have a detrimental effect on the wellbeing and enjoyment of many Kempston residents.
At the time of writing a response to the letter is unknown.
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27 Shakespeare Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK40 2DX 01234 915915 http://www.vervebedford.co.uk KEMPSTON CALLING is an independent monthly magazine with no affiliation to any other organisation. © 2017 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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the agreement gives Diamonds the security of tenure at a ground which is appropriate to the club’s position in the national League system and will provide a home for the team while Rushden and Higham United’s Hayden Road is brought up to the required ground grading standard. Kempston Rovers Chair man, Russell shreeves said: “We’re very pleased to have signed this agreement with AFC Rushden and Diamonds and look forward to welcoming them and their supporters to our ground for the forthcoming season. “We’ve developed an outstanding facility at Hillgrounds
and are looking forward to continued success both on and off the pitch for our respective clubs.” AFC Rushden & Diamonds Chairman Ralph Burditt said: “signing this agreement gives our club the stability which it needs to move forwards following a challenging period of time. “From our first contact with them, Kempston Rovers have been extremely friendly, accommodating and professional and I am thoroughly looking forward to continuing to work with them. “Hillgrounds is a great place to watch football and we will be proud to call it home during our time there.”
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Commemorating 40 years of Kempston Colts On Saturday April 22, 2017, the Mayor of Kempston, Mr Carl Meader performed a tree planting ceremony adjacent to the main football pitch at the Rovers’ Hillgrounds stadium. The Mayor planted a walnut tree which is symbolic for the whole of Kempston. The Colts were formed in 1977 and have a proud history of continuous growth with currently over 500
KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017 — 5
club members. The Colts have strong ties with Kempston Rovers. Players can see a path to senior football from the Colts. There are boys teams as well as girls! It just so happened that the girls were playing at the time of the event! There is an excellent book available from the club which tells the history of the club and how they became known as the ‘Walnut Boys’.
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KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017 — 7
Succesful Easter Fayre
Kempston support Group for sue Ryder’s st John’s Hospice held a very successful easter Fayre and Coffee morning on easter saturday in the church hall at All saints Church, Kempston. Visitors to this well attended event had a range of stalls to browse, these included Books, Bric-a-Brac, paintings,
Cakes and marmalades, easter egg tombola, easter Goodies and Raffle. this event has become a very sociable occasion with visitors staying on for sometime enjoying a coffee, cake and a chat. over £1000 was raised for the hospice. many thanks go to all who supported us with donations and their time.
Café pops up at Moggerhanger Park
SATuRdAy 1st April 2017 saw not only the relaunch of the Pop-up Café in The Garden Room at Moggerhanger Park, Moggerhanger, Bedford but also the opening of the new Woodland Scramble Net. The café had been closed for a number of years, however, Moggerhanger Park General Manager Harry Hay worked hard to ensure that this popular destination has now been brought back to life. The launch was held to not only celebrate the new café but also the brand new Woodland Scramble Net which has been installed within a stone’s throw of the café itself. The Scramble Net complements and enhances the existing play area and
adds a whole new dimension of fun to the estate. The Scramble Net installation has been sponsored by Tesco via their Bags of Help Scheme. This scheme helps community groups and projects with funds raised from the 5p carrier bag charge. General Manager Harry said: “We are delighted to see The Garden Room back in use. It is such an asset to the estate as it provides a relaxed and child-friendly environment for visitors to come after they have walked in the woods or been to the play area.” Harry added: “We are very grateful to Tesco and their Bags of Help Scheme which has enabled us to expand our play area.
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KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017 — 9
Camestone exhibition
yEAR 3 at Camestone Lower School staged an exciting exhibition at Project 229 last month, about the effects of volcanoes and earthquakes. There were models of volcanoes on display, diagrams of the interior of a volcano, leaflets giving lots of information about these natural phenomena, and of course the children were on hand to answer any questions that visitors might have. All the children have become very knowledgeable about this topic, as they have been studying it for the whole of the Spring term. The pupils thought the exhibition was important as we have as recently as 2007 felt the effects of an earthquake in Bedford, and many of us were affected by the ash clouds from the Mount Etna which erupted at the end of February this year. The children invited parents and teachers, as well as local (and not-so-local) dignitaries and celebrities. Taylan even invited Jose Mourinho who was unable to attend, but sent some information and publicity from Manchester united instead! The Queen also wrote back to say that she couldn’t attend, but would like to offer the children her good wishes for a successful day. The children had a thoroughly enjoyable time, and were pleased to have the chance to demonstrate how much they have learned.
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10 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017
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Another great success for the John Bunyan Museum! IT HAS been a busy few months, following the museum’s re-opening. More than 800 people, nearly half of them children, visited the Museum, Church and Basement on Saturday 11th March as part of the hugely successful BedPop Science labs day. From the museum science trail, Mad Professor Art workshops and felt making in the Basement, and drone flying in the Church hall, families came and really enjoyed themselves taking part in these and other activities. Many children have had fun on our Easter Egg trail, with over 250 children searching the museum for hidden eggs and answering the question to win a prize. More and more people are discovering that the Museum offers a different and exciting experience for both adults and children alike. This May half-term we will again be welcoming Bedford Chronicles for ‘Fun, Food, and Frivolity’ – workshops are
Thursday 1st June at 10.30am and 1.30pm, £3 per child. Our next exciting project is the Writing Competition, asking children in four different age groups to imagine they are Elizabeth Bunyan, and write a letter to the judges pleading for her husband John to be pardoned and released from jail. The entries so far show lots of imagination and skill. There’s still time for your child to enter. The closing date is 5th June. More details are on our website, or call in at the Museum to collect an entry form. The John Bunyan Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 11am – 4pm until the end of October. Admission is free. For more details contact the Curator, Nicola Sherhod, on 01234 270303 or e-mail curator@bunyanmeeting.co.uk. www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk/ museum
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SIXTY YEARS OF CHRISTIAN AID
Sixty years ago the first Christian Aid Week was launched. This year, May 14th – 20th, thousands of volunteers will again be calling door to door to collect those distinctive red and white envelopes. The donations are a vital contribution to Christian Aid’s response to the needs of the poor in our world. Originating in the commitment of British and Irish Churches to help refugees at the end of the Second World War – it was initially called ‘Christian Reconstruction in Europe’ – it morphed into Christian Aid with its global focus. Currently the charity works with over 650 partners across approximately 50 countries, using its resources to respond to humanitarian need including today’s refugees and those who suffer from famine. However, Christian Aid’s vision is bigger than
SUMMER OF ENTERTAINMENT
At the time of writing the weather has taken a turn for the better. Let’s hope it’s a sign of a warm, dry and bright summer ahead. While the weather can’t be relied upon, however, one thing that is for sure is that there will be no shortage of things to do this summer in Bedford Borough. It may be a River Festival off-year following its record-breaking 2016, but there’s still an extensive array of events and attractions to look forward to. Bedford’s Big High Street Showcase returns on Saturday 3rd June, offering live music, street stalls, sports and a wide range of children’s entertainment. The Bedford International Kite Festival
View from the Rt Revd
Richard Atkinson
The Bishop of Bedford
just meeting immediate needs. The driving vision is to combat, and bring to an end, poverty in our world; that poverty which robs people of dignity, freedom and hope, of power over their own lives. I am reminded of some words of Archbishop desmond Tutu, “There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need to go upstream and find out why they’re falling in.” Christian Aid do exactly that, when in addition to their relief work, they campaign against the causes of poverty such as inequality and tax
In Focus with
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takes place on the following weekend in Russell Park, where kite flyers from around the world will put on a great spectacle. Included amongst the many performing arts events are a slimmed-down Bedfringe and the Bedford Park Concerts, including Proms in the Park, which has made a very welcome return to Bedford Park in recent years. Summer is of course an ideal time to
KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017 — 11
injustice, challenge gender inequality, or respond to the devastating effects of Malaria and HIV Aids. Michael is just one of the millions uprooted by conflict and famine in South Sudan. When military forces descended on 80-year-old Michael’s village in unity State, South Sudan, they showed no mercy. Looting homes and killing indiscriminately, their violent actions destroyed an entire community. Terrified, Michael, who is nearly blind, and his family fled to nearby swamps where they hid for two and a half months. When finally they returned home almost everything was lost – people had died, homes had been looted and livestock stolen. Christian Aid was there for Michael and his family, providing them with fishing hooks and nets to replace those stolen from them. A skilled fisherman, Michael was soon able to feed his family regular nutritious meals by catching fish. When the Christian Aid volunteers calls for that envelope, please give generously to help the millions in our world like Michael.
enjoy our parks and open spaces, while both the John Bunyan Community Boat and the Artful dodger both offer the chance to get on the river for a leisurely cruise.
A common theme across local summer events and attractions is the volunteer effort that goes into them.
The numerous fetes and fairs and village shows, in particular, are powered by a vast resource of energy, talent and commitment on the part of volunteers.
Their efforts are reflected in the entertainment on offer, and I strongly recommend visiting some of the fairs and fetes taking place in the coming months, especially if you wouldn’t normally do so.
They encapsulate the spirit that makes Bedford a Borough of events; a spirit which will be on display in abundance throughout the summer ahead.
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12 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017
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Hundreds plant trees in the Marston Vale Forest
THE Forest of Marston Vale has been awarded funding from defra, to help deliver defra’s public commitment to plant one million trees with primary schools by 2020. Community Forests across the country will be planting 164,600 of these trees – connecting children from over 1000 schools in and around Community Forests with nature and the environment. The Forest of
Marston Vale spans the 61 square mile area between Bedford and Milton Keynes, in Bedfordshire. This year, schools from Cranfield, Flitwick, Marston Moretaine and Houghton Conquest came along to Waypost Wood in Cranfield, and planted over 1000 trees. The aim of the project is to engage children with planning, planting and aftercare of new trees and woodlands, which will connect them with nature whilst improving their school grounds Community Engagement Officer Jo Roberts said: “It’s so important for children to understand trees and their natural environment in general, and it’s been brilliant to see so many children having a great time.”
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BEdFORdSHIRE Police’s Special Constabulary is recruiting, and is keen to meet members of the public who want to make a difference in their community. Members of the Special Constabulary will host an information evening at Police Headquarters in Woburn Road, Kempston, on Monday 8 May from 7.30pm. The evening is a chance for members of the public interested in volunteering with the force to hear more about the Special Constabulary from serving Specials, as well as more about the application process. The Special Constabulary is the uK’s volunteer police force. Specials work closely with full time Police Officers and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) both to patrol Bedfordshire’s rural and urban communities, and volunteer in specialist units like Roads Policing. After completing their initial training and once they have taken their oaths, Specials continue to be mentored and supported by experienced colleagues before they become independent. Special Constables must be over 18 and be able to commit a minimum of 16 hours a month to the role, although Bedfordshire’s Specials volunteer an average of 28 hours a month. Visit ‘Volunteer With us’ on www.bedfordshire.police.uk
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DOING WHAT IS RIGHT AND PROPER
Those of us living in the more remote Bedfordshire villages and smaller towns, unlike the residents of central Bedford and Luton, can often be unaware of the extent to which our county is one of the most diverse in the entire country. I met last month with Menter, the East of England voice for the Black Minority Ethnic (BME) Community to emphasise this point and will do so quarterly as it is my duty to be a Commissioner for all our communities, without exception. When speaking recently at Tilsworth, for example, the audience was clearly surprised to
G
NEED TO MATCH SKILLS TO JOBS
If, like me, you want to see an increasing number of local, well-paying jobs available in and around Bedford and Kempston, then please be encouraged that, despite local and national pressures, our local businesses are performing well. Over the past few weeks I have listened to the challenges and goals of many local firms: Interfoam, Bourns, Central Pharma, Michael R Peters, AL&G Abbott, Ark Handling, Ford Packaging, uSystems and to many budding entrepreneurs who attended my Community Business School. They have provided invaluable insight into how Government can help, or hinder, their efforts. My recent visits to Interfoam in the Woburn Road Industrial Estate and to Bourns
Update from the
Police & Crime Commissioner by Kathryn Holloway learn that only twenty minutes’ drive away Bedford primary schools teach pupils speaking well in excess of 40 different languages. That is why increasing diversity in our police force is so critical; Robert Peel said that “the police are the public and the public are the police” and it is both morally correct and a practical necessity for Bedfordshire Police to
In Focus with
Fuller Richard Fuller MP for Bedford & Kempston at the old Texas Instruments site on Manton Lane, provided positive signs for future growth. Strong leadership and an inclusive culture from these two businesses – both of which are family owned – provide a long term basis for decision making and a positive engagement between managers and workforce. There were concerns – most notably about the availability of a skilled local workforce and whether post Brexit there would continue
KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017 — 13
reflect the public that it serves in terms of appearance and the languages spoken. Recent recruitment has drawn on posters situated in areas of high diversity, recruitment evenings aimed at young people and their extended families have been introduced to better explain the benefits of policing as a career, as has a “buddy” scheme to provide a friendly source of support to our BME candidates who, unlike others, may not have family members or existing friends in the Force. It is a source of enormous pride to me, and the Chief Constable, that recent recruitment has included 34% diversity, as I saw for myself at the passing out parade, which is, sadly, unprecedented in current policing in the uK. This can only build wider confidence in Bedfordshire Police, This is not tokenism; it is doing what is right and proper and long overdue.”
to be access to hiring workers with the needed skills from our European union neighbours. I believe there will be, but also that we need to do more to develop skills and to match those skills with the needs of local industry. Matching skills needs with those seeking work has been a foundation of a series of meetings I have held with the JobCentre over the past 18 months. I want to get to grips with persistently high levels of unemployment in our town – although unemployment has fallen considerably since 2010, for twenty years our local unemployment level has been above the national average. I want to encourage action that will reduce that and make Bedford a future centre for needed skills. Improving coordination between the JobCentre, local councils and Bedford College must be part of the remedy and a greater focus on supporting start-up businesses here in town. That is the path to higher paid jobs and greater local prosperity.
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Mayor visits Springfield’s new building Year four pupils were asked to design the Springfield Primary diary cover for next year. Kempston Mayor Carl Meader was invited to the school to choose the winning artwork and two runners-up from numerous entries. In the school assembly on April 20, 2017, Kempston Mayor presented the first prize to Sienna Stein (right) and two runners up prizes to Zechariah Sidhu and Frederika Paulusova. The prizes were Toys R Us vouchers and a golden ticket to be the first pupils to tour the new building for years five and six, which was completed last month. Sienna, Zechariah and Frederika joined the Mayor and Head Teacher for a guided tour of the new building following the presentation. The Mayor addressed the assembly, reminiscing about being amongst the first pupils at the newly built Springfield School in 1969, having previously attended Up End and Bedford Road Schools. He suggested that it might be a great opportunity for the school to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2019.
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Kempston bowlers receive energy saving boost
KEMPSTON Park Indoor Bowls Club is set to get an energy saving makeover, thanks to a £58,000 grant. The facility in Hillgrounds Road will get new LEd lighting, a new heating system, air conditioning, and a replacement bowling carpet. It is expected that the refurbishments will save the Club more than £10,000 a year in energy bills. Rita Clifford-Pendleton, Management Committee Chair woman, said: “This project will provide a comfortable environment for all our users throughout the year, and make major energy savings.” Alan Ratcliffe, Club President, said: “This is great news. The grant gives a major boost to our place at the heart of the Kempston community, and the total project will provide great facilities for bowlers and all our user groups.” Gillian French, Biffa Award, said: “We’re really pleased to be supporting such a great project with a grant from the Landfill Communities Fund. Hopefully the redevelopment of Kempston Park will mark the beginning of an exciting new period in the Club’s development.” The building is used by a number of community organisations, including the Wheelstars, Tibbs dementia Group, Bedford Headway, and a craft group, and offers bowling, and bowls coaching as part of the Bedford Borough Council Reactivate scheme.
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It is also available for wakes, weddings, parties and general social activities including quiz and race nights and choir concerts. The grant is thanks to the Biffa Award – a multi- million pound fund that helps to build communities and transform lives through awarding grants to community and environmental projects across the uK as part of the Landfill Communities Fund.
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Daubeney supporting Foodbank
ON a chilly afternoon, ten daubeney Academy students went to Bedford Foodbank’s warehouse to learn more about the work that goes on there in support of the local community. They were both surprised and encouraged by what they discovered. Bedford Foodbank, working with the Trussell Trust, provides emergency supplies of food and domestic products such as toiletries, to people who find themselves in a crisis situation. There are many reasons why people need support; perhaps through job loss, illness or the breakdown of a relationship. The students were shocked to learn that the Foodbank has supported over 2000 local children who have found themselves without food, and that between 450 – 600 people are fed each month.
IMPORTANT WORK After spending the afternoon helping in the warehouse, the students realised just how important the work of the Foodbank is and felt that they wanted to do more to help. On their return to school, they set about writing a letter to Mr. Miles, the Head teacher, in order to persuade him to make daubeney Academy a Foodbank collection point. When he read the letter, daubeney Academy is now an official Foodbank collection point. If you are collecting your child from school, or perhaps dropping them off in the morning, please feel free to bring in your donations of food or toiletries which can be handed in at the office. Students at the school can also bring donations in and leave them in the box. In fact, any visitors to daubeney Academy are welcome to use this facility in order to support those who need a little extra help.
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KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017 — 17
A journey spanning nearly 350 years ON Tuesday April 18 a new partnership project between John Bunyan Museum and The Bedford Chronicles, and made possible by funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) was launched. The Journey from Bunyan to the Brickworks brings together two key aspects of Bedfordshire heritage; the journey John Bunyan envisioned as he was persecuted and imprisoned for his beliefs, and the journeys of people who came to Bedford after the Second World War to work at The London Brick Company, often escaping persecution and imprisonment to make the journey to, hopefully, a better life. The project will work with schools to bring the two parts of Bedford’s heritage to life through interactive talks and workshops. John Bunyan lived during a time of intense social, civil, and religious upheaval, through the English Civil War, the Commonwealth, and the restoration of the monarchy. After the Restoration, Bunyan was imprisoned for 12 years and wrote The Pilgrim’s Progress. He told the allegorical story of Christian’s journey from the City of destruction to the Celestial City, and the trials and lessons he learns on his way. It is at its heart a story of escaping evil and journeying to a better life. Following the Second World War over one million refugees could not be repatriated to their original countries. These included, amongst others, Poles, ukrainians, Croats and Czechs who feared persecution by
the new communist regimes in their countries. The united Kingdom accepted over 80,000 ‘displaced Persons’ as part of various labour import programs. In Bedford the demand for labour for the brick companies was high, and many of these people moved and settled in Bedford. There was also mass migration from the south of Italy, where unemployment was high and standards of living poor. Many could not afford the costs of emigration, and so “paid passage” schemes by London Brick were a strong magnet, a ticket to a better life.
Made possible by money raised by National Lottery players, the project will culminate in a two week exhibition in The Basement @ Bunyan Gallery. The exhibition will display artwork and written materials created by schools, as well as
artefacts collected from the community. This will celebrate the contribution made to Bedford by people living 350 years apart yet sharing a common bond. A large ‘stained-glass’ effect -window, in the style of the stunning windows in the Bunyan Meeting church will be created and will form the centre-piece of the final exhibition. In addition, two films will be recorded documenting the memories of those who came and their journey, this will be publically shown as part of the final exhibition. Co-Project Manager and cowriter of The Bedford Chronicles, Karen Fryc said: “I am delighted that we have been able to bring this project to life, as the huge impact and lasting legacy which the brickyards created changed the landscape of Bedford forever. Our town has much to celebrate today because of the journey those men made here a mere 65 years ago.” The history, heritage, sacrifice and lasting legacy created by Bunyan in the 17th century and the men and women who worked in the Stewartby Brickyards in the 20th century is something that should never be forgotten!
KEMPSTON RURAL PARISH COUNCIL
The Parish Council is responsible for a number of local services, including: roadside seats, Bus shelters, Litter bins, dog waste bins, Wood End Play Space, the closed church yard at Church End. In addition, the Parish Council liaises with the Borough Council on matters that are their responsibility such roads and footways. It also considers and responds to local planning proposals and other matters that might affect the lives and well-being of residents. The Parish Council meets on the third Thursday of the month (except August and december), at 7.30pm in All Saints Church Hall. There is always 15 minutes set aside for public questions. ContaCt details:
The Parish Clerk 10 Parklands Bedford, MK41 9LZ Tel: 01234 270016 Email: gillwiggs@btinternet.com http://kempstonrural.bedsparishes.gov.uk
18 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017
Biker Down courses
BEdFORdSHIRE Fire and Rescue Service are running free ‘Biker down’ courses throughout the year to give motorcyclists and other road users the skills they need to help bikers who may have been involved in an accident. Each course lasts four hours and is split into four modules. dates are: June 17, July 22, August 27, september 24, october 22, november 26. Please check the course is running and book at place, please don’t just turn up. module 1 – First on scene – this module includes an introduction into the course followed by detailed input on risk assessment, prioritisation of activities, calling the emergency services & giving accurate details, parking safely on arrival, scene safety, hazards that can be encountered at an incident and how to deal with each, managing adrenaline & generally staying calm & safe. module 2 – First Aid – this module covers basic live saving first aid techniques that can be applied when arriving first on scene. We cover managing the airway, breathing and circulation of casualties whilst reiterating being mindful of the hazards detailed in module 1. We also perform a ‘Motorcycle Helmet’ removal demonstration and allow participants to practise
the correct technique for this. module 3 – Avoiding the accident – this module enlightens attendees with current statistics with regards to motorcycle accidents, the most common causes of motorcycle accidents including both motion camouflage and the looming effect. The module concludes with a discussion on some advanced riding techniques that can be used to reduce the chance of becoming involved in an accident. module 4 – the Law – this module covers various aspects of the law and how it can affect persons involved in an RTC (such as modifications to vehicles invalidating your insurance). It also covers the information the Police will require after a serious collision, what to expect from the Police after a collision, the court process including what to expect if you are required to give evidence and finally a ‘frequently asked questions’ session covering several other interesting topics. ‘Biker down!’ courses run throughout the year at Shefford Community Fire Station. The next one is on June 17th from 10am to 2pm and then at least once a month during the rest of the year. Anyone who would like more information, or to book a place, should contact: Bikerdown_team @bedsfire.com
TEL: 07724 905406
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Christian Autism Bedfordshire Aid Week
AuTISM Bedfordshire is an independent charity setup in 1991 providing support for individuals with autism, parents/carers, families and associated professionals. Within Children’s Services we offer several different services across the county these include: LOAF (Loads of Autistic Fun), a Saturday morning family activity group which the whole family can attend providing an inclusive environment where all children up to age 12 (those with autism and their siblings) and their parents/carers are supported by trained staff and volunteers. LOAF allows children with autism to relax, have fun and ‘be themselves’ with people who understand their needs. Wanted Fun are our youth groups which provide social opportunities for young people aged 10-17 years with Asperger’s Syndrome or high-functioning Autism. The groups provide different activities both at the base and within the community. The group is also a great opportunity for young people to make new friends and to develop their social skills and self-confidence in a relaxed, positive environment. Our Summer Activity Schemes run in Bedford and Luton providing social, educational and play experiences for children with Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC) aged 3-17 years. Alongside these core services we also offer additional opportunities such as trampoline course, soft play sessions and swim sessions subject to additional funding being secured. Opportunities: We have both paid and voluntary roles available. For information: 01234 214871.
14th – 20th MAY, 2017
Christian Aid was set up by British churches in 1945 to support the hundreds of thousands of refugees who had lost their homes and possessions in the Second World War. 60 years ago Christian Aid Week was launched to raise funds for vital work like this that was still continuing in the long running aftermath of the war. For 60 years, it has been providing essential food, shelter and legal assistance for refugees. This year, Christian Aid Week is focusing on the plight of refugees today, for example, Nejebar. Nejebar and her family have fled horrors in Afghanistan, where her husband was threatened with torture and death for being a government worker. But now they’ve arrived in Greece, all they have is a tent. They have no other protection against wind and rain. There’s no school for their five children. And they have no certainty or clear idea of what will happen to them now. They thought they would stay here for 10 days, but it’s already been six months and there’s no end in sight. Nejebar ’s husband Noor describes their initial reaction to arriving in the camp in Greece: ‘It was like suicide for us. But we took the decision that it is better to die here than to die there from war.’ In the face of problems such as Nejebar’s and many like her, we may not feel there is much we can do here in Kempston. However, last year in Kempston we raised in excess of £1,700, which went towards the Bedford area total of over £16,000. Nationally, Christian Aid raised over £10 million last year during Christian Aid week. Traditionally, most of the money has been raised by a house-to-house collection undertaken by volunteers from the churches in Kempston. Some streets will be covered this year, but the increasing size of Kempston and fewer volunteers means that you may well not receive an envelope through your door. However, do look out for other events planned by different churches, and do visit the Christian Aid display in Kempston Library from Saturday, 6th May until Saturday, 20th May. There you will find more information and envelopes for your contributions, should you wish to contribute. Thank you to all of you who gave to Christian Aid last year. I hope you will feel able to be just as generous this year. your contribution reaches far beyond Kempston to those who need your support the most.
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KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017 — 19
Photography by June Essex
New primary school takes shape
New High Sheriff of Bedfordshire 2017-2018
mr Vinod tailor FCIB DL was officially appointed to the office of the High sheriff of Bedfordshire for 2017-2018 at a ceremony held at Hindu temple on 1 April 2017.
STAFF and developers where joined by Mayor dave Hodgson on a visit to the site of new school, Great Ouse Primary Academy which is opening in September. Principle Paul Ives, was joined by the Mayor of Bedford Borough, dave Hodgson, and representatives involved in the building project. This major project will provide a new 420 place Primary school for 4-11 year olds and 32 place FTE Pre-School, serving local communities in and around King’s Field, St Andrews and North Bedford. Principle Paul Ives, who is currently the head teacher of Margaret Beaufort Middle School, said: “The Sharnbrook Academy Federation (SAF) team at Great Ouse Primary Academy are developing a school that thinks and dreams big for its pupils. Expectations will be high for all who make up the Great Ouse Primary Academy community and these standards reflect the wonderful physical environment we are developing to enable children to flourish within and beyond the school walls. “We are committed to developing learners who are resilient, learners who are focused and learners who are aspirational in their goals; learners well prepared to be
successful citizens of the 21st century. We believe that the school absolutely belongs to our community of children, staff, parents and carers. We urge you to actively support and be involved in the school. It is a wonderful opportunity for everyone to be part of something special.’ The new school will open to Pre School and years R, 1 and 2, offering places to over 400 students.
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the ceremony was attended by around 120 dignitaries, family and friends, including the LordLieutenant of Bedfordshire, Helen nellis.
the office of the High sheriff is an annual appointment by Hm the Queen which goes back to saxon times and Vinod takes over the role from Charles Whitbread.
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Bedfordshire has been home to the tailor family since around 1972 having moved from Uganda. Vinod and his wife, Jaimani, live in Luton with his mother and their son.
As well as working in the Banking and Financial sector for 40 years, Vinod is involved in several organisations in Bedfordshire, London, India and Africa.
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20 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017
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EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
MAY IN THE GARDEN – by Milton Ernest Garden Centre
Summer tubs and hanging baskets
T’S May so time to get those patio pots and hanging baskets planted to enjoy all summer and it is very exciting. The plant breeders have been busy and so I am able to tell you about some amazing new varieties to delight you. With the fungus problem that occurred four years ago in Busy Lizzies we have been encouraged to plant Begonias instead. They perform very well in tubs and hanging baskets especially on a sunny or partly shaded patio and will sustain periods of drought. A really good new variety is Funky Pink which will give an outstanding display in hanging baskets. It is covered in masses of double pink flowers all season. For pots and shallow planters Begonia Nonstop Joy yellow is a lovely compact variety with beautiful foliage. It is compact and grows to form a neat brightly coloured mound like a ray of sunshine in a pot on the patio. Petunias are well known for the continuous flowering display they give for the whole summer and into the autumn until the frosts come in November. We are familiar with the trailing Surfinia Petunias which if kept watered and fed with a liquid
I
plant food will trail down by one metre from the basket. There are now many vibrant colours to choose from but another group are the Fanfare Petunias. This group is more compact forming amazing cushions in tubs or hug the hanging basket giving a ball effect with a mass of flower. Petunia Amore Queen of Hearts is a stunning variety with yellow and red flowers with five striking rosy red hearts on each flower. It flowers its heart out from late spring until late autumn and cascades perfectly from a hanging basket. Another outstanding new variety is Petunia Night Sky. The flowers are deep purple blue with white speckles creating a clear night sky effect. Each flower is unique in patterning making an eye catching display. Osteospermums are tender perennial plants that are grown in the uK as summer bedding plants like geraniums and fuchsias. If you can protect them over winter you can propagate the following spring from cuttings. Osteospermum Rioja Red is compact and smothered in deep red daisy flowers from late spring to the first frosts in the autumn. Keep removing fading flowers to ensure continuous flowering.
These are impressive plants for the front of a border and patio pots. It also looks good in sunny herbaceous borders. Osteospermum Sunset, yellow and orange and O. Blue Sunrise yellow and pearly pink are two more single daisy varieties whereas O. Berry White and O. White Lemon have double flowers. Nemesia Plums and Custard is a stunning strong compact plant for tubs on a sunny patio or front of the border. Plant in good compost and this
Garden notes by Richard Callaghan
SuddENLy everything in the garden is looking lovely and vibrant. The first flush of colour is just about over but now the fruit trees are in full bloom and everywhere you look trees and hedges are covered with a rain-bow of new shoots leaves and flower buds. yes the spring bulbs want dead heading but that is part of spring. Most of the potatoes should be up by now but we can still get some sharp frosts so it is a good idea to keep hoeing the soil over them. A frost won’t kill them but it will set them back and can mean you get lots of little potatoes. The Mayan Gold I wrote about last month are up too so I shall be looking after them as they sound a bit delicate. If you have not sown runner beans yet it is safe to sow them in the open ground now as the soil is warm enough and frosts will have finished by the time they come up. If you started them off indoors you could risk putting the plants out now but they want a bit of protection at night for a while, either a double layer of fleece or like I do, a screen of plastic sheeting or polycarbonate to form a mini green-
Nemesia will flower all summer into the autumn. The flowers are bi colour deep violet and luscious buttery yellow and very sweetly scented. With the recent selective breeding of Nemesias there are now many lovely varieties. N. Amelia pale pink, N. Wisley Vanilla white, N. Easter Bonnet white and pale mauve and N. Mirabelle which is pale lilac in the paler shades and N. Bordeaux deep rose, N. Fleurie Blue purple blue and white and N. Raspberries and Cream white and deep rosy red the stronger colours. If you haven’t yet grown these bedding plants I recommend you give them a try. Cosmas Casanova is a new group of Cosmos. They are short compact much branching plants which work better in bedding schemes than earlier varieties. The foliage is very attractive fern like and bright green. The flowers are perfect single daisies in white, pink, red and violet all summer. Remove the flowers as they fade to keep the fresh flowers coming by cutting back to the first leaf. I am really looking forward to trying some of these exciting new varieties this summer and I hope you will too.
house. Like nearly all legumes, such as peas and sweet peas, runner beans fruit mainly on side shoots so if when they have got four true leaves you pinch the tops out they will form side shoots which means they will fruit much earlier and much lower on the plant. By doing this you can be picking beans up to three weeks earlier. French beans have a tendency to branch out naturally so I do not think it is as important for them. Two weeks ago I sowed my parsnips but there is no sign of them as yet but that could be due to the dry weather, I hope so as although it is not too late to so them again they will be a bit behind where I want them to be. I think this has to have been one of the driest April’s I can remember. What happened to April showers? Of course weeds are only affected by extreme drought. you hoe through apiece of ground and then rake it out to get a lovely fine seed bed. Then you sow your seeds and cover them, water if necessary and lo and behold the next time you look, not a sign of the seeds you sowed but a lovely green sward of weed seedlings like a new sown lawn.
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KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017 — 21
Could you be a Foster Carer? Foster Care Fortnight 8th-21st May 2017 is here again and the purpose of this regular event is to raise awareness around the need for fostering families around the country. All agencies contribute and support Foster Care Fortnight along with the Fostering Network who ‘figurehead’ the campaign. The number of families coming forward to foster has dropped significantly and the number of young people needing foster care is only increasing!
Could you make that difference to a Child’s life? Children First Fostering agency are an independent fostering agency – we are continually recruiting fostering families. If you have ever thought about becoming a foster carer, or would like to find out more information, please take a look at the website, www.cffa.co.uk or call Kim on 01268 567330. We also have a Facebook page
which gives lots of information about the agency and all aspect of fostering. Our aim is to provide quality care and achieve the best outcomes for the children and young people entrusted to us. We do so by working in consultation and partnership with our foster carers, local authorities, our experienced and professional social workers, and of course the children and young people we look after. We have a very experienced and professional group of support staff with venues for support groups and training across our area. A member of that team will always be on hand to support and offer advice, out of hour’s staff also available. A wide variety of people can become foster carers. At Children First our carers
come from wide ranging cultural, ethnic and religious backgrounds. They might be home owners or tenants, each foster child however, will need to have his or her own bedroom. Children and young people need space around them for their own possessions and to allow them to study, play and relax. The most important thing is that your home is welcoming and safe. The carers have regular support groups which are well attended and carers are given the opportunity to feedback and share ideas with each other and the agency. We also have a ‘word of mouth’ referral scheme for existing carers to make suggestions from friends and family who might like to be considered as foster carers. As a foster carer you will need to have the time and energy to invest in a child or young person. You must also be flexible, patient and understanding. Carers receive a weekly allowance and have the support of our professional team 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There is guidance given to allocation of the allowance in respect of the young people placed and is paid fortnightly directly to carers, carers are selfemployed. Children First Fostering Agency have their own Mascot, Rover. He supports the carers and young people and accompanies both staff and young people on activities and days out as well as training and recruitment events. Children First also ‘host’ events for our carers and young people throughout the year, including Easter, summer, and Christmas themed events.
For more information please go to www.cffa.co.uk or call Kim on 01268 567330
22 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017
TEL: 07724 905406
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Let’s get this straight – your dog is your responsibility by Kathy Stone
AS A member of dog Watch Kempston it is always nice to see new dogs and welcome them and their owners to our beautiful green spaces in Kempston for exercise and socialising. However as dog owners we need to be aware of the impact we have on other members of the public who also make use of these areas. unfortunately not all dog owners are responsible. Historically many owners fail to clean up after their dog when in a public place. Similarly there are those that put their dogs faeces into a plastic bag and throw it into a tree or leave it in the undergrowth. There are also a growing number who use baby wipes to clean their dogs paws and or bottoms discarding them and the packaging. dog faeces is regularly seen on pavements, grass verges, football pitches our beautiful park, open spaces and woodland adjacent to our river. This is not only unsightly but also a health hazard. unfortunately this is a national problem. Why do it? Who do they think clears this up? These thoughless individuals give all dog owners a bad reputation and need to be tackled. With a lack of resources within all public services it is all the more imperative that we work together and promote pride within our dog community. The latest fade by some councillors promoting ‘stick and flick’ is not helpful. This article therefore highlights some of the reasons and consequences of why all members of the public particularly dog owners need to take our responsibilities more seriously. Q. Who is responsible for cleaning up after your dog? R. The owner is ultimately responsible. However if you are handling the dog on behalf of the owner you are responsible at the time of the fouling. Q. Is it an offence to fail to clean up after your dog? R.. yes. ‘Authorised Officers’ from Bedford Borough Council can impose a £75 Fixed Penalty Notice to those who fail to clean up after their dog. If the offender refuses to accept such a notice, they can be summoned to appear at Luton Magistrates Court. If found guilty they can be fined up to a maximum of £1000. Those who place dog faeces into a plastic bag and then discard it into the undergrowth commits two offences. Failing to clean up after their dog and a litter offence. Q. Who are the authorised officers? R. dog Wardens, Park Rangers, and Police Community Support Officers are authorised to issue notices. The police can also report such incidents to the local authority so that the most appropriate course of action is taken. Although North Bedfordshire nolonger have a dog Warden we do have a council Enforcement Team who target such offenders. Q. Is dog mess dangerous to humans and wildlife? R. yes. All puppies are infected with Toxocara T Canis and produce eggs. The number of such eggs
diminish as the dog grows older. Toxocara eggs are not infectious until they embroyonate. This usually occurs two to three weeks after a dog has fouled. Therefore it is important to clean up after your dog. Although most dog owners worm their dogs every 36 months not every dog owner does this. Infection is caused by swallowing and or direct contact with soil or sand contaminated with decomposing dog faeces carrying the eggs of the parasite. The eggs can last for up to two years. Infection is spread by hands, inanimate objects such as wheels on toys, push chairs, pedal cycles and the soles of shoes. Not surprisingly the parasite can be found in the vicinity of
all children’s play areas even though dogs are banned from these areas.
Q. What are the symptoms of Toxocariasis? R. Eye disorders are the most common complaint. Larvae can travel to the retinal artery of the eye and can cause blindness in serious cases.
Q. How can Toxocariasis be eradicated? R. Clean up after your dog. Worm your dog regularly. Consult your vet for the best treatment for your pet. Wash your and your children’s hands with soap and water after playing with your pets and after any outdoor activities. Never let your child play on the ground and eat at the same time. Q. Where to put dog faeces? R. Ideally dog faeces should be placed into a plastic bag and placed in one of the council designated red waste bins. However it is acceptable to place them into any litter bin. If you cannot find a bin please take it home and dispose of it in your black wheelie bin. We are lucky in Bedfordshire as the council provide dog bins. In other areas of the country people are asked to take their bags home to dispose of. It should be noted some dogs eat others dogs as well as human faeces. This is particularly a problem by our river. This also spreads disease and can make your dog ill.
Q. What should I do if I see someone not cleaning up after their dog? R. If you feel comfortable, offer the person a bag. If not, or the person refuses to accept the bag or ignores you and walks away make a mental note of their description including the dog, time, date and location. These details should then be passed to the local authority Environment Crime Enforcement Team on 01234 267422.
Q. Should I take my dog out when it is in season? R. dog etiquette ‘says’ no. However if you have little or no garden this is difficult. If you do need to exercise your dog when in season please try and avoid key walking times. Also ensure your dog is on a lead. All dogs have a fantastic sense of smell. your bitch will therefore be pestered and even followed home by other dogs when in season. unfortunately this is normal behaviour. I is your responsibility to keep your bitch out of the way to ensure both are kept safe. Over the last year dog Watch Kempston have been clearing litter from our open spaces. This too is a hazard to our pets and wildlife many of which have been injured. you will probably have seen us on a daily basis picking up all types of litter primarily adjacent to our river between Kempston Rovers Football Club and Sanders Close. It is our aim to extend this activity and incorporate the areas up to the Slipe and Kempston Mill. We have done this with the full support of the council who have provided us with litter pickers, large blue plastic bags and protective gloves. This activity has almost become obsessive with some of our volunteers. It is disturbing at the amount of rubbish we have cleared. This consists of fish hooks, fishing line, jagged meat cans, glass bottles, often broken with shards of glass sticking out of the undergrowth, metal beer tops, crumpled tins, plastic bottles, all types of animal bones, used nappy sacks, dog and human faeces, baby wipes, footballers plastic sticky tape, golf balls, hypodermic needles, and hundreds of dog faeces whether in a bag or not. As we have cleared an area we have placed signs to encourage others to keep it free from litter. Most are very supportive and appreciate our actions. However there are a determined few who pull down our signs and continue with their irresponsible behaviour. These individuals are gradually being identified and their details forward to the council. The council are in the process of replacing our handmade signs with their own. It is only a matter of time before these individuals are caught. Currently we are photographing the bags of those who consistently blight our area. One individual has even thrown their used bag next to a bin we have recently erected. A photograph of the said bag is highlighted with a view to identify this individual.
If anyone would like to help us take a pride in our community please contact kathy.stone@ntlworld.com
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KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017 — 23
out & about radio and television, Martin has worked at all levels of the industry; being a warm up man, devising and performing his own BBC television show, and writing jokes for some of the biggest names in British comedy. “a comedy institution” the Guardian “the comic least likely to be heckled.” the Irish post. “extremely funny.” peter Kay. Opening the show is Chris stokes a brilliantly wry and award winning comic. He has appeared on ‘dave’s One Night Stand’ (Channel dave), BBC Radio 4, 5Live and Radio X (formerly XFM) and taken four critically acclaimed solo shows to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Best Show – dave’s Leicester Comedy Festival 2012 “excellent… Full of interesting ideas” ★★★★ the mirror Finally Don Biswas brings his killer one liner jokes and cutting political satire to the show. Bedford favourite, Paul Revill, will host the show!
May madness Gordon Arms Ent Shed Thursday May 11
Get set for some May madness as Castle Comedy brings you a line up featuring some of the best comics on the uK circuit. So on Thursday May 11th head to the Gordon Arms Ent Shed in Bedford where there will be guaranteed laughs… you’d be mad to miss it! Headlining the show is the man who inspired Frankie Boyle to be a comedian; martin mor! Martin comes from Northern Ireland, and with almost 30 years experience as a professional performer, he has established himself as one of the uK’s most popular and in-demand comedians. Very much the comedian’s comedian, Martin has been the support act of choice for; Frankie Boyle, Jack dee, Lee Evans, Jasper Carrot, Steve Coogan, and once Tina Turner! With numerous appearances on
Show starts at 8.15pm and tickets are £10 or £18 with pre show meal & glass of wine. To book call 07736 060541, email castlecomedy@hotmail.co.uk online at www.castlecomedy.co.uk Castle Comedy – Bringing Comedy Royalty to Bedford.
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24 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017
TEL: 07724 905406
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
food & drink f
Bedford Sausage and Cider Festival Bedford Blues, Goldington Road, Bedford A taste of the West Country will be coming to Bedford in May with the launch of the town’s very own sausage and cider festival. The event takes place at Bedford Blues and celebrates real cider made by artisan producers around the country and the art of sausage making. Gareth Aldred, operations manager at the Blues, said: “We are looking forward to hosting Bedford’s first Sausage and Cider Festival this May. The festival will take place on our training pitch and
Sat & Sun May 13 & 14
KEMPSTON EAST BOWLS CLUB
Stay fit – keep young Improve your health and make new friends FIRST THREE SESSIONS
FREE
Try it Wednesdays from April at 5pm at Southfield Community Centre ALL YOU NEED TO BRING ARE FLAT SHOES We are now open and taking new members
Contact: Peter Harper 01234 855991, 07778 029820 For details it would be nice to meet you
the aim is to make the festival an annual event for the town. Sausages and cider are to rugby what strawberries and cream are to tennis.” The festival will be organised by The Original Sausage and Cider Festival Co., run by veteran festival organiser Crispin Slee. It will be a home-coming for Mr Slee, who grew up in Bedford and played his first game of rugby as a mini for the Blues. There will be live music throughout the event and a free family circus - for kids big and small! Tickets are on sale via Eventbrite. Adult tickets are £7 in advance. For up-to-date information visit: http://www.facebook.com/Bedford SausageAndCiderFestival
MAY IN KEMPSTON LIBRARY
RegulaR Weekly events: Mondays 2:15pm Pre-school story time Mondays 3:30-5:30pm lego Club tuesdays 11am Rhyme time tuesdays 2pm Wiggles and Jiggles Baby group tuesdays 3:30pm Homework Centre Wednesdays 2:30pm Family Colouring Club thursdays 11am Wiggles and Jiggles Baby group thursdays 2pm knit and natter thursdays 3:30pm Homework Centre Fridays 3:30-5:30pm lego Club saturdays 10:30am – 3:30pm saturday kids Club sPeCial events in May: Monday 8th May: 4:30pm Chatterbooks Reading group for 8-12 year olds. Friday 5th May: 4pm adult Creative Writing group. Wednesday 24th May: 2:30pm adult Craft Club (£1 per session).
Friday 26th May: 3:30-5:30pm lego Club elephant special saturday 27th May: 10am-3:30pm national elmer Day Collage saturday kids Club special tuesday 30th May: 11:30-4:30pm Paper Plate Fish Making Wednesday 31st May: 2:00-5:30pm Cupcake Flowers thursday 1st June: 10:00-4:30pm summer Wreath Making Friday 2nd June: 2:00-5:30pm Flower Blossom Making saturday 3rd June: 10:00-3:30pm Bees, Birds and Butterfly tree Hangers sessions for basic computer help. need help with your tablet? Book a one to one session now! Housebound library link and Mobile library services also available. Homework Centre for Middle and upper school students, every tuesday and thursday term time, 3:30-5:30pm. Download the Bedfordshire library app from the apple and Play store now! For further details on all the library events and services, visit the virtual library via www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries
TEL: 07724 905406 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
the place p Folk Nights: Benji Kirkpatrick
Benji Kirkpatrick is one third of acclaimed bloke folk trio, Faustus and was a key member of the recently disbanded folk big band and BBC Award winners Bellowhead. He spent three years in the Seth Lakeman Band having featured on Seths successful releases Kitty Jay and Freedom Fields. He has also released four solo albums, the latest Hendrix Songs, saw him strip back the songs of his hero and set them in a new, acoustic light. In summer 2016, as part of the Shakespeare 400 celebrations, Benji was involved in The Fairy Portal Camp at the RSC in Stratford upon Avon. Musicians, actors and dancers collaborated to produce new works every day for a week, working up to a final performance which opened the fairy portal Benji has also worked with numerous other artists including Oysterband, John Jones, Maddy Prior (Steeleye Span), Thea Gilmore and Joan as Police Woman.
8pm Wednesday May 3
Far from the Madding Crowd Far from the Madding Crowd is perhaps one of the most endearing
7:30pm Thursday May 4
www.theplacebedford.org.uk/ 01234 354321
and English of Hardy’s novels. It tells the story of the young farmer Gabriel Oak and his love for and pursuit of the elusive and headstrong Bathsheba Everdene. Her wayward nature however, leads her into the path of the dashing Sergeant Troy. The introverted and reclusive gentleman farmer, Mr Boldwood, whose love for her fills him with a fearful sense of exposure culminating almost inevitably in both tragedy and true love.
KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017 — 25
Gregor must now seriously consider his options. One of the most resonantly strange stories ever brought to stage, this highly acclaimed adaptation by Steven Berkoff plunges into the extremity of Kafka’s dark humour, and reveals a tremulous human heart. Awe-inspiring visuals in amongst a darkly funny and deeply disturbing modern masterpiece promise a jawdropping, belly-ache of an experience.
From Broadway to Hollywood The songs and stories of how the great successful Broadway Shows were taken to Hollywood and turned into the great and not-so-great Hollywood Musicals. Robert tells the stories and sings the songs from Oklahoma, Guys ‘n’ dolls, Carousel, South Pacific, The King And I, Gypsy, Funny Girl and many more. Songs include: People, If I Loved you, Oh What a Beautiful Morning, Somewhere, Tonight and many more hits, climaxing in a medley of 20 Tony Award Winning songs.
7:30pm Saturday May 6
Metamorphosis
Waking to find himself transformed into a dung beetle one morning,
7:30pm Friday May 5
Plan B 7pm Friday & Saturday May 26 & 27
Plan B is a dark comedy, a satirical response to this new world. The intention behind this piece is to explore ‘who we are’ and ‘where we are’ in civilization. It takes references from dostoyevsky’s Existentialism. A new piece devised by second year students of the BA (Hons) Theatre and Professional Practice at the university of Bedfordshire. This short, one act play will be presented as a double bill with work by MA students.
POP! With his faithful teddy bear, deckchair and fantastic basket of tricks, Christian Lee is all set for a lovely day at the seaside until the day takes a turn and things don’t quite work out as planned. Join our hapless hero and be astounded in this totally word-free clown and magic show that follows his exciting adventures at sea. Mr Bean meets Charlie Chaplin and a MASSIVE balloon! The most fun-filled show for children and families around!
2pm Wednesday May 31
26 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017
TEL: 07724 905406
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Marc Bolan 40th Commemorative Anniversary Tour The Corn Exchange, Bedford 7.30pm Friday June 9
T.Rextasy, presented by Sweeney Entertainments, has been performing all over the world for 25 years, a career that ironically out-lives Marc’s very own T.Rex. In 2017, the band returns to venues across the uK to transport audiences back to the 70s for the Marc Bolan 40th commemorative anniversary tour. Marc Bolan, with his band T.Rex, was one of the most flamboyant and charismatic stars of the original glam rock era. With Bolan’s special ingredient of Rock-a-Boogie songs throughout the 1970s including ‘Telegram Sam’ and ‘Jeepster’ he was able to obtain what would be yet another Top 20 record in 1976 that has since become one of the most memorable and everlasting signature tunes, ‘I Love to Boogie’. Accepted as the world’s only official live tribute band dedicated to Marc Bolan & T.Rex, and the only band endorsed and approved by Marc Bolan’s family, estate, original ex-members of T.Rex, and Bolan’s catalogue management, T.Rextasy have been described by many as ‘beyond the boundaries of tribute’. The skilled musicianship of danielz (Vocals & Lead Guitar), Neil Cross (Rhythm Guitars, Backing Vocals), Rob Butterfield (Bass Guitar, Backing Vocals) and John Skelton (drums) lets the timeless music and legacy of Marc Bolan and T.Rex live on, performing everything from 20th Century Boy to Children of the Revolution and Telegraph Sam to Hot Love with superb authenticity.
Sweeney Entertainments, co-founded by Julie and Peter Sweeney, has been providing a wide repertoire of top quality touring shows for theatre and corporate events for over fifteen years both in the uK and internationally. Julie said: “T.Rextasy is a rock ‘n’ roll show with a generous mix of the popular hits, a 15 minute acoustic slot, play b-sides and album tracks – this is two hours of amazing completely live glam rock!” This full-on concert showcases all of the hits
THE
con club
KEMPSTON 01234 851120 Saturday 6th May The best voted Elvis tribute also seen on TV this morning and heard on BBC radio the amazing
LEIGH CASLING Saturday 13th May The fantastic voice of STEPH PERRY will bring a brilliant party atmosphere Saturday 20th May The unbelievable voice of all girl band
SUGASOUL SISTERIN if you missed these girls last time make sure your here this time Saturday 27th May Female singer IZZY will blow you away Sunday 28th May KIDS PARTY BBQ games prizes disco starts at 3pm BIG KIDS PARTY goes on late into the night DIARY DATES Saturday 6th June One of the most amazing ROBBIE WILLIAMS tributes
Sky Sports + on SUPER SUNDAY Fosters and Eagle Smooth 50p a pint cheaper between 1pm-6pm
CHECK FOR DETAILS www.facebook.com/conclub.kempston
and more, with both electric and acoustic performances, faithfully recreating the energy and performance of Marc Bolan and T.Rex. Bringing audiences to their feet across the globe, the whole family will enjoy the experience of being transported back to the 70s to re-live the experience of attending a Marc Bolan concert live. This rock’n’roll concert is truly about the music - book your T.Rextasy tickets today!
Chill In The Park Addison Howard Park 1-5pm Sunday June 25,
Chill in the Park returns – this is a much-loved completely free community event in its eighth year of running. The event provides high quality local music and entertainment for all… for free, in the local park. The event organised by Project 229 and Grace Community Church (in partnership), celebrates the diversity of Kempston community, showcasing groups that run accessible local services and provides a way to give something back to the families that they work with throughout the year. The last event in 2015 had 3000+ visitors and was sponsored by a variety of local businesses. Local music promoter Michael Pipe has created a brilliant ‘Ent Shed on Tour’ line-up including Bedfordshire Trio ‘My Girl The River’, who recently supported Suzanne Vega with their Americana roots / folk music. ‘Ben Smith & Jimmy Brewer’ will showcase the songs combining traditional storytelling with a modern twist and harmonies that secured them a tour with Joan Armatrading and the young talented trio ‘Adiescar’ from Bedfordshire bring their fresh eclectic sounds to this high-quality showcase. The event will also see
performances from local acts ‘Johnny Mudd’ and ‘Sunsinger’ as
well street and contemporary dance from the urban Funki Munki’s with ages ranging from three to 17 years and a host of other local groups. ALL the children’s entertainment at the event is also FREE including face painting, a bouncy assault course and sports and games throughout the afternoon. Occasions like this bring the local community together. It helps us appreciate the fact that the town has a fantastic green space and celebrates the talent and hard work of our local groups and organisations. Bring a picnic and enjoy a completely free day out! There will also be food vendors selling delicious hot and cold food. If you would like to help sponsor ‘Chill in the Park’ and find out about the exciting sponsorship packages on offer please contact: dave.brear@graceinthecommunity.c om or comments@project229.org or call us on: 01234 840880.
TEL: 07724 905406 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017 — 27
Space+Howlin Owls Bedford Esquires 8pm Saturday May 20
Space are returning to Esquires, the band released the much anticipated new studio album “Give me your Future” in late 2016 and embark on a new tour of the same name in April - June across the uK and Ireland. The new album is being recorded and produced by Grammy and Brit award winning producer Steve Levine who has worked with The Clash, Culture Cub, Beach Boys, deniece Williams and Gary Moore to name a few. 2015 was a good year for the band with Female of the Species making the top of the album charts with the “TFI Album” – (Number 1 in June 2015) Followed by the release of the “Strange World” single and the sold out 30 date uK tour. The bands last album release was ‘Attack Of The Mutant 50ft Kebab’- their first new album for nine years. Lead singer Tommy Scott’s influence for the new songs stemmed from his infamous fascination with science and horror films, and he likens the album to a ‘Fifties B-Movie’ for the ears. Proud to note how Space have always stood out from the ‘normal,’ Tommy concedes that their last album has the usual signature Space quirkiness, with some extra ingredients added to the mix - he describes the songs as a mish-mash of SKA, Punk and the classic Space sound. “When we tour, we love playing the old stuff, but I always knew I wanted to record some new material. We know the fans like to hear the old classics from our multi-million selling albums ‘Spiders’ and ‘Tin Planet’, but we wanted to give them something extra.” “The title track on the album is my favourite
song from the record and is the story of how a fifty-foot kebab from a side street takeaway shop wreaks its revenge on the ailing high street. It’s a message about survival in a tongue-in-cheek way. The first single from the album is a track called ‘Fortune Teller’ - keeping up with the mystic vibe!” Space have sold over two million albums worldwide with titles including “Spiders, “Tin Planet” “Suburban Rock and Roll” and “Attack of
the Mutant 50ft Kebab” and also released 10 top 40 singles and host of other single releases to-date with titles including “Neighborhood” “Female of the Species”, “Me and you Vs. The World” “Avenging Angels” “dark Clouds”, and “Begin Again”. Support comes from Howlin Owls Tickets from seetickets, and in person from Planet Boutique, Esquires Bar and Mario’s Hair design in Kempston.
28 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017
TEL: 07724 905406
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Kaiser Chiefs headline
Proms ‘Goes to the Movies’
Bedford Park Saturday August 5
Bedford Park Sunday August 6
Kaiser Chiefs are one of the century’s most popular indie-pop outfits. The band formed in 2002 and have enjoyed enormous global success since. They consist of lead vocalist Ricky Wilson, who has achieved added fame from his stint as a judge on the uK talent show The Voice, guitarist Andrew “Whitey” White, bassist Simon Rix, keyboardist Nick “Peanut” Baines and drummer Vijay Mistry, who replaced founding drummer Nick Hodgson in late 2012. The band’s big break came along when they performed at the NME Awards tour in 2005, as the opening act. This opportunity allowed the band to start making a name for themselves in the uK. Their first album debuted the same year, entitled ‘Employment’, and reached the number two spot on the uK album chart and was subsequently certified five times platinum. The album was even shortlisted for a Mercury prize, but narrowly missed out on the prestigious award. Since this encouraging start, the band has fast become one of the most successful uK indie rock bands today. Their most notable hits
include ‘I Predict a Riot’, ‘Every day I love you Less and Less’ (both from their debut album) and smash hit ‘Ruby’ from their second album, amongst many others. Their second album, ‘yours Truly, Angry Mob’ topped the success of their first, reaching the number one spot on the uK albums chart and the album’s lead single ‘Ruby’ became their first ever uK number one single. In terms of music style, the band can best be described as indie rock with elements of new-wave and post-punk revival. Other similar artists include Coldplay and Franz Ferdinand. With over one million singles sold worldwide, Kaiser Chiefs are arguably the biggest band to have emerged from Leeds, having won many prestigious awards including Brits and NME awards. Tickets are on sale now! www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk
A Great Music Festival For Lovers of Everything Vintage Following last year’s amazing sell-out success, we are excited to announce...
TWINWOOD FESTIVAL • BEDFORDSHIRE • 25, 26, 27, 28 AUGUST 2017
Looking for a great evening of entertainment the whole family can enjoy? Then Bedford Park Proms should be high on your list of things to go to this summer. The concert will feature guest soloists Australian Tenor and West End Musical Star daniel Koek. daniel played the iconic role of Jean ValJean in Les Miserables and wowed the Bedford Proms audience in 2015. Joining daniel will be Soprano Joanna Forest, whose debut album ‘Stars Are Rising’ was released in March. Joanna is one of the most exciting new British sopranos in the uK right now. The renowned London Gala Orchestra and the Bedford Choral Society will be performing popular classics and
film scores. Local school choirs and a special musical theatre drama group as well as some other special guests will be warming the crowd up before the concert. Adults and children alike will love the film theme this year, as along with the favourite classical scores, there will be some exquisite renditions of popular film soundtracks. As always we guarantee an electric atmosphere, laser show as well as the spectacular firework finale. It’s a great opportunity to get the whole family together, you can bring your own picnics and drinks into this concert and set up chairs, picnic tables and gazebo’s if you wish or just lay out the picnic rug. Tickets at www.bedford parkconcerts.co.uk For further information please call Louise Harris on 07980 996318 or email louise@louiseharrispr.co.uk
Gillian Flack at the Eagle Gallery
One woman show
“Landscape Journeys”
• OVER 100 LIVE PERFORMANCES OF MUSIC FROM THE 1920S TO THE 1960S • THIRTEEN GREAT VENUES • ACRES OF DANCE FLOORS • 150 VINTAGE TRADERS • HAIR & BEAUTY • COMEDY & CABARET • DANCE WORKSHOPS • INTERESTING MUSEUMS • CLASSIC CAR DISPLAYS • GREAT BARS & FOOD INCL. CARVERY • LARGE CAMPSITE W/ GENEROUS PITCHES • GLAMPING & LUXURY CAMPING AVAILABLE • LATE NIGHT CLUBS & DJ SESSIONS
2017
TICKETS
ON SALE NOW
THE MANFREDS • SI CRANSTOUN • ROY G HEMMI NGS • THE GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA
THE REVOLUTIONAIRES • THE CHICAGO STOMPERS • DOWN
FOR THE COUNT • ZOOT SERIOUS • JIVE ACES • MIKE SANCHEZ ELECTRIC SWING CIRCUS • FLEUR DE PARIS • STICKY WICKET • BASIN STREET BRAWLERS • THREE BELLES J J KING • THE ZOOTS • LAURA B • BENOIT & THE BEVIN BOYS VIELLEFON • THE DAISY
THUNDERBRIDGE BLUEGRASS • KING PLEASURE
DUSTY LIMITS • GOOD ROCKIN’ TONIGHT •
& THE
CHAINS • CHAMPAGNE CHARLIE • BAMBOOZLE • BO WALTON BISCUIT BOYS • MUDIBU & THE JEZEBEL SEXTET • LOLA LAMOUR • MOSCOW DRUG
MAT WALKLATE & PAOLO FUSCHI • THE BOBCATS CLUB KIERAN TOWERS & CHARLOTTE CARRIVICK • THE • THE GOAT ROPER RODEO BAND • LOUNGE KING CATS • GREGGI G • COUNTRY CATTIN’ • CAT IDEALS JOHNNY & THE JAILBIRDS • COCO BOHÈME • STILL-MOVING DJS • SWING NOIR
...PLUS MANY MORE - STILL TO BE ANNOUNCED!
ts this year, it is advised to Due to high demand for ticke price. advantage of our “Early Bird” book early, and also to take
824773 OR FOR INFO CALL 01234
CLICK:
stival.com www.twinwoodfe
THREE ANDAHALF DAYS OF ENTERTAINMENT STARTING FROM FRIDAY 25TH AUGUST
10am – 5.30pm Saturday May 6 – Saturday May 13 Meet the Artist between 10am-1pm FREE ENTRY 101 Castle Road, Bedford MK40 3QP Tel: 01234 346995 EAGLE GALLERY IS A NOT FOR PROFIT ARTISTS CO-OPERATIVE
TEL: 07724 905406 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
‘The Boss UK’ – Bruce Springsteen Tribute Band Bedford Corn Exchange Saturday May 27
“this band is awesome -– mighty, moving and unstoppable…” Amanda price, the times) Bruce Springsteen is touring the world – tickets for his stadium shows sold out in minutes – but don’t feel left out! The Boss uK brings all of Bruce’s best-loved hits in a sweat-drenched, ninety-minute show with all the passion, intensity and realism of true Boss. Some say, not just the best tribute to Springsteen, but the best tribute band, full stop. From the blistering opening of
‘Born to Run’ this production becomes one huge sing along so get ready to become part of the show! Bruce has sold over 120 million albums worldwide and is ahead of Queen, Abba, Michael Jackson and david Bowie in an all time list of acts with uK no1 albums! 49 nominations and 20 Grammys with Born to Run, Thunder Road, dancing in the dark, I’m on Fire, Born In The uSA, and the Oscar winning Streets of Philadelphia among with many stellar songs brought to the stage in The Boss uK’s show. LPH Concerts are delighted to bring the band to Bedford Corn Exchange on Saturday May 27. Tickets £20 are on sale now and can be purchased online from The Corn Exchange, also in person from La Piazza, St Pauls Square, Bedford.
KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017 — 29
30 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017 TEL: 07724 905406 EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com –––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– BEDFORD ORGAN & KEMPSTON AND KEMPSTON THE FAREWELL KEYBOARD CLUB DISTRICT MODEL CAMERA CLUB SERVICE OF REVD THE ADDISON CENTRE RAILWAY SOCIETY ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Every Monday 7.30 to 10.00 At the Church of the Transfiguration rear church hall New members welcome For further details contact Brian Woodcock on 07795251988 or brianwoodcock@btinternet.com AddISON CENTRE KEMPSTON FuNd RAISING
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mon 22nd mAy 2017 2.00pm to 4.30pm £3.00 (INCL CuPPA) Tel: 01234 851877 or 01234 340997
TEA DANCE
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GRAND OPENING WEEKEND
Friday 28th April to monday 1st may
SAXON GAMES ANd CRAFTS
Saxon Way, Great denham, MK40 4GP Live entertainment, Have a go gaming and craft sessions, Light refreshments For info and timings call Michael on 07877951630 E: saxongamesandcrafts@hotmail.com BIddENHAM GARdENERS ASSOCIATION Biddenham Village Hall tuesday 16th may at 7.30
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GREATEST GARDENING TIPS By steve Brookes Visitors very welcome ––––––––––– tuesday 20th June at 7.30
CleMatis – QUeen oF CliMBeRs
By Carole Adams Visitors very welcome. Admission £5 per meeting – includes Raffle & Refreshment www.biddenhamgardenersassociation.org.uk ––––––––––– tuesday 18th July at 7.30 Admission £5 includes raffle & refreshments
AGM
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Deborah
MOBILE QUALIFIED STYLIST Perms, cuts, blowdrys, sets, colours - highlights etc
01234 210337 07976 394798
LYDIA HUMPHREYS WILL TAKE PL ACE AT THE CHURCH OF THE TRANSFIGURATION ON SUNDAY 21ST MAY AT 10.45AM.
She is to become the Vicar of St Botolphs, in Shepshed and St James, Oaks in Charnwood. Revd lydia has conducted many Christenings, weddings and funerals for the community and would welcome people whom she has met to her farewell service.
BRITISH REd CROSS BEdFORdSHIRE Tuesday 9th May FLoWeR ARRAnGInG DemonstRAtIon AnD sHoppInG oppoRtUnIty at Savin’s Wholesalers, Vinegar Hill, Hatch, Sandy, Bedfordshire, SG19 1PR 11am – 3pm, Refreshments, soup & cakes, raffle & tombola. Free Parking. Tickets £10.00 available from Sandra on 01582 589084. Further details on website redcross.org.uk –––––––––– Sunday 21st May, open GARDens The Manor House and The Old Rectory, Milton Ernest, Beds., MK44 1RF, 1 – 5pm, drinks & cakes, Plant stall, Parking. Tickets £4.50 pay on entry. –––––––––– Sunday 11th June open GARDens dragon’s Glen, Clophill, Beds, MK45 4BQ 1.30 – 5pm, drinks & cakes, Plant stall, Parking. Tickets £4.00 pay on entry. –––––––––– Sunday 25th June, open GARDens The Secret Garden, Wymington, NN10 9LS, 1.30 – 5pm, drinks & cakes, Plant stall, Parking. Tickets £4.00 pay on entry. –––––––––– Friday 30th June open GARDens West End, Cheddington, Lu7 0RP 2 – 5pm, Plant stall, Parking. Tickets £3.50 pay on entry.
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ENGLISH WINE WEEK
–––––––––––––––––––––––– Warden Abbey Vineyard, near old Warden. saturday 27th may 11.00am and 2.30 pm. Advance booking only. discover the secrets of the medieval vineyard, English wine-making, and how volunteers care for the vines all year round at this community project. £8 for adults (children free). Info and booking at http://www.wardenvineyard.org.uk/tours
VINEYARD TOUR
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Welcomes new members – beginners to very good! www.kempstoncameraclub.co.uk for details of programme Want to gain studio photography experience? There is a regular studio night with professional models
–––––––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON SENIOR CITIZENS’ CLUB dANCING, WHIST, BINGO Meets Wednesday 10am-12noon Friday 10am-4.00pm
at the CENTENARy HALL, behind Kempston Town Hall, Bedford Road For further information telephone:
01234 857011
–––––––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON GARDENS ASSOCIATION
If you are interested gardening why not come along to our meetings. New members and visitors always welcome. We meet the second Wednesday of most months of the year in All Saints Church Hall, Cemetery Road Kempston. We have speakers and demonstrations covering every aspect of gardening from Window Boxes to Allotments and outings are also arranged throughout the year. For further information contact Trevor on 01234 856040 or Marian on 01234 855288 KEMPSTON HAMMERS BOWLS CLuB
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6th may 10.30am-2pm at the club 134 High street, Kempston mK42 7Bn Bowls truly is the sport for all regardless of age, sex or physical ability. It is a sport that takes just seconds to learn - and the rest of your bowling career to master. Bowling is a great way to meet people and our members are always willing to help new bowlers take up the sport, bowls is also a relatively cheap game compared to other sports. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
OPEN DAY
WORLD SHIP SOCIETY BEDFORD BRANCH Kempston Constitution Club 196A Bedford Road, Kempston 3rd WEdNESdAy in the month 19:30 for 20:00 start 21 June 2017
Bedford welcomes Jim Charnock for a presentation from another selection of the excellent slides taken by the late Captain eric askew.
Telephone: 01234 352014 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
CONCERT BY POPULAR ORGANIST
STEVE HUBBLE WEDNESDAY 31 MAY 7.30 – 10.00pm –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Members £5 PAY AT Non-Members £6 DOOR –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Contact: 01234 344423 www/Organfax/clubs/Bedford
–––––––––––––––––––––––– sing ‘Music for a spring evening’
CANTAMUS
Sacred & Secular music for the Evening st owen’s Church, Bromham mK43 8LL saturday 13th may at 7.30pm Adults £8, Child u16 FREE Tickets at the door: Reservations by phone 01234 825454 or (evenings) 826551
BEdFORdSHIRE FAMILy HISTORy SOCIETy 7.15pm Friday 5th may Interested in Family History? Come along to our next monthly talk
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“the History & Beliefs of the Panacea society”
by Gemma Papineau held in the drama Hall of Mark Rutherford School, Wentworth drive, Bedford MK41 8PX Members free, visitors £1. www.bfhs.org.uk KEMPSTON HAMMERS
–––––––––––––––––––––––– Wednesday 31st may £1.00 on the door doors open 7pm Eyes down 8pm EVERyONE WELCOME
FUN BINGO
ALL SAINTS PARISH CHuRCH KEMPSTON
–––––––––––––––––––––––– FULL AFTERNOON TEA & A GUIDED TOUR
of this historic church to visiting groups of 10 or above at a cost per head of £7.95. Contacts are Janet Fardell on 01234 855158 email:martinandjanet1@btinternet.com or Frances Leonard on 01234 852480 email: francesmleonard@gmail.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
TEL: 07724 905406 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2017 — 31