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OCTOBER 2016
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2 — KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
KEMPSTON TOWN COUNCIL 104 Bedford Road, Kempston, Bedford, MK42 8BG Tel: 01234 851005 www.kempstontowncouncil.com Email: kempstoncouncil@btconnect.com Office hours: 10am to 3pm Monday to Friday
MEETINGS TAKING PLACE IN OCTOBER/NOVEMBER
COMMuniTy SAFeTy FORuM
5 October at 6.30pm
PLAnning COMMiTTee
11 October at 6.30pm
PLAnning COMMiTTee
8 November at 6.30pm
TOWn COunCiL MeeTing •TOWn COunCiL MeeTing
11 October at 7.30pm
8 November at 7.30pm
All meetings held at Kempston Town Council. We want you to come to our Town Council meetings.
More traffic problems!
In response to Kempston Town Council’s concern about extra traffic around reorganised schools, two Bedford Borough officers attended the last meeting. Cllrs pointed out the difficulties for parents and residents at peak times. Physical solutions seem to be scarce and there appears to be no extra money either The Council was pleased to learn that there is an officer responsible for school travel plans and any suggestions to improve the situation can be channelled to them. So if you have any positive suggestions please let Kempston Town Council know. Nevertheless there is only one sure way to eradicate the problem and that is to walk to school. It will not only reduce the stress of parking but will also lead to healthier young people and adults who may accompany them. So if you can, please leave the car at home.
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Water needed!
We’ve had a lovely hot summer that most have enjoyed. However it has been a busy time keeping gardens well watered. Sadly the Council has not been lucky with their plants in troughs around Kempston. A range of plants were beautifully planted. It was thought that watering plans were in place but it didn’t prove to be the case. The ‘Welcome to Kempston’ signs have been an addition recently too. The Council have decided to only have ‘winter planting’ outside the Council offices while there is a ‘rethink’ about other areas. What do you think? Do you have any suggestions about planting and especially watering? Can you, someone you know or an organisation help? Should things be done differently? Your ideas are welcome. Please let Kempston Town Council know.
HAVE YOU GOT A PROBLEM? HIT A BRICK WALL?
Kempston Town Council is the most local body in government and we can point people in the right direction for help with a problem. Contact your local councillor, drop in at a surgery or ring the office if you need help!
KNOW YOUR COUNCILLORS
Adrien Beardmore 52 Foster Road, Kempston MK42 8BU adybeard@ntlworld.com 853803 Kay Burley 7 Westdale Walk, Kempston MK42 8NX gordoncolling@btinternet.com 843805 David Clarke 86A Bedford Road, Kempston MK42 8BB daleysclub@outlook.com 851143 Lindsay Fensome 7 Kingston Close, Kempston, MK42 8WA lfensome@btinternet.com 07857 005384 Will Hunt 5 Vyne Close, Kempston MK42 8RH willhunt@ntlworld.com 852072 / 07787 742887 Richard Hyde 14 The Links, Kempston MK42 7LA Hydeaway14@googlemail.com 300848 / 07986 225389 Fiorentino Manocchio 32 Hartwell Drive, Kempston MK42 8UY manocchio@btinternet.com 07818 426266 Mohammed Masud 46 Henderson Way, Kempston MK42 8NP cllrmasud@bedford.gov.uk 07974 276944 Carl Meader 39 Highfield Road, Kempston MK42 7JH carl.meader@bedford.gov.uk 857621 Sue Oliver 4 Loveridge Avenue, Kempston MK42 8SD s.j.oliver@ntlworld.com 303029 Peter Tansey-Dwyer 106 Hilton Close, Kempston MK42 7FT petertanseydwyer@yahoo.co.uk 07597 717699 James Valentine 35 Waterloo Road, Bedford, MK40 3PQ jamesv@ntlworld.com 330621
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KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016 — 3
Women told she was too old for knee operation
Battle over planning issue sorted?
A WOMAN with a very painful knee joint that needed surgery was told she could A KEMPSTON garage has not have the operation because she was over 70 years old. Following intervention by her doctor and a local councillor, this decision, for her at least, has been reversed. The person from Bedford, who we have agreed not to name, was suffering with a very painful knee that was causing her difficulties in walking, and to sometimes ‘give way’ in dangerous circumstances.
Her doctor, as are the rules now, sent her for an appointment with MSK England, a private healthcare company working for the local NHS and based at the Bedford north wing site. They told her what was needed was an arthroscopy but she could not receive this treatment as she was too old.
The woman concerned said: “I understand GPs can no longer refer their patients directly and we now have to use this expensive and convoluted service. After a series of protracted and unnecessary interactions I was eventually told the x-ray showed cartilage wear and tear but an Arthroscopy would not be done because I was over 70. “I find this totally unacceptable. It is usually only people over seventy who require Arthroscopy. I also understand that this elaborate and expensive ‘service’ we are compelled to use is a private/public partnership designed to ‘filter’, that is prevent, access to the NHS. “ Bedford Borough Labour councillor, Louise Jackson said: “Any move to restrict access to such vital interventions on the basis of age would be whol-
OVER 70
ly wrong, and I know that hearing that at 70 she was ‘too old’ for this procedure caused this lady distress. I’m glad that this error has now been corrected, but it just heightens my concerns about the consistency of care and advice that is offered when contracts are awarded to private healthcare companies.”
A spokeswoman for Bedfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group said:” The NHS is expected to provide comprehensive health services based on clinical need, within the resources available, which means that access to some treatments and services is prioritised by meeting set criteria and clinical assessment of patients. “Age is not a barrier to NHS treatment, and there are many examples of patients in their 80s and 90s receiving major procedures. Other factors in a patient’s circumstances may mean that they do not meet the set criteria. “There are definitive criteria set against policies approved at the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Clinical Forum which denote the clinical evidence required for patients to meet the set threshold. “There may be times where there is insufficient information presented about a patient, and the GP or consultant may then need to review the case. “A patient’s clinical circumstances may change, in which case the GP will again review their health needs against the set criteria. “It would be inappropriate to comment on the details of an individual case as this would breach patient confidentiality.”
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been found guilty of not carrying out an enforcement notice. Last year Mr Roop Bandha, of College Street Motors Ltd, and his son Aaron Bandha were charged with failing to comply with an enforcement notice .
In July 2015 they were served with a planning enforcement notice served by Bedford Borough Council which required certain steps to be taken within 3 months from the 10 August 2015, and they failed to comply with the notice. In court today guilty pleas have been entered by both the Company & Mr Roop Bandha, but not by Aaron Bandha who did not attend court. The issue is over a ramp from his forecourt he was asked to remove for health and safety reasons which it was claimed was also having an adverse affect on the available parking on the street. The case was adjourned to the afternoon of October 21st 2016. A resident of College Street said: “We have been having an ongoing battle over this so pleased to see it looks like being resolved at last.”
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info@bedford-wheels.co.uk www.bedford-wheels.co.uk KEMPSTON CALLING is an independent monthly magazine with no affiliation to any other organisation. © 2016 Rosetta Publishing Ltd, 30 Radwell Road, Milton Ernest MK44 1SH. Tel: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952. Printed by: Mortons Print Limited, Newspaper House, Morton Way, Boston Road, Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 6JR
4 — KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Talks over Saxon Centre stalled
PROGRESS has been described as ‘slow’ in efforts to smarten up the Saxon Centre in Kempston and hopefully turn it into an attractive Town Square. Part of the problem is that the Borough Council own the freehold and Sainsbury’s, who have a supermarket on the Saxon Centre, have the leasehold. There are also other stakeholders and interested parties.
While both parties agree something needs to be done, getting agreement has been difficult. They are being egged on by campaigners for a town square, local residents and Kempston Town Council, who all hope something will happen soon. James Valentine, Labour councillor for Kempston Town Coouncil, said: “Councillors and officers from the borough and
town councils are continuing to put pressure on Sainsbury’s at a national level and are hopeful that positive progress will be made. “As you will be aware, I presented a petition to the council in March of this year on behalf of Kempston’s Labour Councillors and I think it was helpful that the council was able to debate this issue. “We are not happy with the
condition of the Saxon Centre and are determined to improve it for the safety and convenience of residents and shoppers. “The Town Council is keeping the matter under constant review and we will receive an update at our next meeting. I am optimistic that progress is being made and hope your article will attract comments and suggestions.” A Sainsbury’s spokesperson said: “We held a number of discussions with the local council about acquiring the freehold to the Saxon Centre, which in turn would enable them to invest in the local area. “Unfortunately we were unable to agree final terms.” A Bedford Borough Council spokesperson said: “The Council is in dialogue with Sainsbury’s to establish whether a solution can be found. Progress has been slow due to changes in personnel within Sainsbury’s.” –––––––––––––––
AMPTHILL ROAD TRAFFIC MISERY
TO THE EdITOR – I have mentioned this before but a solution to the mess in this area is to re- open the adjacent old Cowbridge Station on the Bedford – Bletchley line. This will help to ease congestion in that area by providing a good link between Bedford, the retail park and Bletchley. There is a similar and very busy station on the Wimbledon tramway near Croydon which serves a busy retail park and the track has now been doubled. David Menzies, Kempston
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KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016 — 7
It is a time for change at Daubeney Academy
THE daubeney Academy community said a very warm and grateful thank you to Mr Jeremy Chopping who retired in July 2016. The Governing Body asked Mr Steven Miles to take up the role of Acting Head teacher until such time as a permanent Head teacher is appointed. daubeney Academy is a small school with big plans as it has recently joined the CMAT family of schools and is looking forward to beginning its conversion to a secondary school. during this time of transition daubeney Academy will continue to serve its community and mirror the passion that Kempston has. In a way, there are similarities to be had here, Both Kempston and daubeney Academy are small, Kempston in comparison to other towns nearby and our school when compared to some of its larger neighbours. What both have in abundance is a desire to be a cohesive community that looks after its members. during the Summer holiday the school underwent a major improvement project with the majority of classrooms being com-
pletely redecorated and receiving new flooring. These classrooms now give the students of daubeney a vibrant and outstanding learning environment. The students, all looking very
splendid in their uniforms, have had a great start to the year, especially our new year 5’s who have settled into daubeney life really well. All staff, students and everyone
involved in the daubeney community are excited about the future of daubeney as it builds on its Ofsted ‘Good’ with the goal of becoming an ‘Outstanding’ secondary school.
8 — KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Brass Band needs a new home MACMILLAN BAKE-OFF BEDFORD Brass is looking for halls and has done for many new band room to rehearse years. However the storage each week with storage space space is limited with no room for percussion instruments to store the music library. We including timpani, brass are searching for a new instruments (tubas, euphonivenue, big enough to accomums,cornets) and an extenmodate 24 players with sive music library. additional storage. The band rehearses twice a week “It would be music to our ears if in the evenings – the AJ Band a Bedford based community on a Tuesday and Bedford group or local business can Brass on a Thursday. help us with a new band Band Committee member Jenny room.” Gellatly said: “The band If you can help us please contact presently rehearses in Mr I William, E: bedford Kempston West/East Church brassuk@gmail.com
Inspired by the Great British Bake Off, Kempston resident, Karen Weitzel, baked a cake! Not just any cake. A King William ginger bread cake. She raffled off the cake at the King William on Saturday September 24, in support of the Macmillan Coffee Morning. Karen is seen here with Joanne Hill, landlady of the pub. Over £400 was raised on the day. Karen has a business called Karen’s Crazee Kitchen where she produces home-made jams and chutneys. She also supported the Road Victim’s Trusts’ event in Kempston later that day.
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KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016 — 9
Bags of fun aboard Bunyan boat!
Photos shows Graham Mabbutt, Christina and BedfordBID employed Bluecap, who acts as a welcoming team for visitors to the town centre with the John Bunyan Boat at Sovereign’s Quay.
THE John Bunyan Boat has up with the High Street. by bringing in new customers to BedfordBID said: “The John brought a wave of tourists to “We are delighted to be able the town centre.” Bunyan Boat has kept a tide of Bedford since being launched in to repay businesses in Bedford Christina Rowe, Director of visitors coming into town.” Jult 2013 Since then more than 18,000 have enjoyed day trips, private parties. wedding receptions and afternoon teas on board. BedfordBID, which represents more than 500 levy paying businesses in the town centre, helped to launch the boat with an initial donation and since then has helped with boarding signage at Sovereign’s Quay. In addition BedfordBID has again given some of its Love Bedford shopping and goodie bags to those travelling on the boat to remind them to come back to town again, and again. Graham Mabbutt, Commercial Director of the John Bunyan Community Boat Team said: “BedfordBID has generously helped the John Bunyan Boat with finances and with fabulous publicity. It also encouraged its Portas pot associates to support us with £2,000 as part of a link
10 — KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Top of the class for GCSEs
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BEdFORd Free School has delivered the best GCSEs in the town centre with only its second cohort of students. The success rates moved upwards for all students with the final results showing Bedford Free School to be second only to Sharnbrook Upper in the Borough. When the school opened in September 2012 it took students in Year groups 7 and 9 (aged 11 and 13 ) to allow a switch over at middle-upper school age. That move proved a great decision for families as shown by the GCSE results last
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year. This year they are even better. “We opened as a secondary before the two-tier system was adopted locally as we knew it would allow us to do so much more with students from the age of 11. We expect to be able to show that with even better results next year. Students thrive in our ‘grammar school for all’ environment where firm discipline is combined with an aspiration to allow students to become best they can be,” said Principal Mark Lehain, “Our Governors and parents set us the task of setting up a school which provided a state education which was free to raise up to their expectations. It is the families of our students we answer to and they demonstrate their support by choosing to send their children to us. “Students leaving here with good GCSE results and great work ethic then have a choice of study post 16. We look forward to monitoring their progress on to their first choice universities or quality careers.”
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KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016 — 11
12 — KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016
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KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016 — 13
Opening of the new changing rooms and toilets
THE official opening of the new facilities at the club was held on Friday 29th July attended by invited guests, organisations who use the club (including the Wheelstars, Tibbs dementia, Headway, the Craft Club, the Afternoon Tea team etc), the management and bowling committees and many members. The project which cost over £100,000.00 received partnership funding from Bedford Borough Council and the Harpur Trust with the club funding the majority of the money from their playing and maintenance budgeting. In his introduction message, Peter Smith stated how important the club was as a community asset and therefore needed to be maintained to the highest level for its members. As it is a members club, run by the members, the funding element must always be an important part of the way the club functions but assistance from interested and supportive bodies would always be welcomed. Councillor Colleen Atkins MBE represented Bedford Borough Council, Harpur Trust representatives, Ian McEwen
(Chair of Grants Committee) and Lucy Bardner (director, Community Programmes), and KPIBC Chairman Rita CliffordPendleton performed the opening ceremony. The Harpur Trust presented Rita with a plaque to commemorate their involvement in the project. This was followed by a tour of the new facilities with explanations of the new modern techniques used to give more room, better equipment and cost saving technology. While a buffet (provided by our resident chef,
Patrick), was shared by all who attended, it gave time for those who had never been to the club before to take in what was on offer to anyone who would like to use our club socially, for functions or to play bowls at whichever level they like. Councillor Atkins expressed the view that KPIBC had much to offer and thought that more and more people who get to know what is available, will see the club expand its membership rapidly. Our friends from the Harpur Trust were delighted that
their financial support had been used so expertly to enhance a facility that had ‘opened their eyes’ and surpassed expectations of what KPIBC had to offer. Our Chairman, Rita CliffordPendleton, who had been the project leader co-ordinating with the contractors SdC, explained how important it had been to start our five year plan to take KPIBC to the top echelon of Indoor Bowling Clubs so that our members can see where their support and efforts are benefitting all who belong and use our club. She stated: “This is the first phase to be completed. The next project is the replacement of the bowling surface and the lights and electrics above that surface. Another expensive but necessary step which we will look for more partnership funding but be very willing to use our own funds to see that completed next year.” A good day for the club, for Kempston and for all who want to be part of this venture. The doors are open to anyone wishing to join, or pop in and see what and where they are. Please call 01234 852291 to check opening times.
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14 — KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016
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Development land needed for elderly Children Awards were magical!
THE Office for National Statistics have published figures that show that in 2025 there will be a 22% increase in the number of people aged 65 in the UK. This translates to a population of 14.3 million people aged over 65, compared to 11.7 million in 2015. The number of people aged over 85 is set to double in the next 20 years.
There is therefore an ever increasing need to provide sufficient and appropriate accommodation for old people. As the population gets older, the housing needs for people are changing. The gap is growing between supply and demand of available properties that provide care and extra care facilities. It is also more common now for local authorities to devolve their powers for providing accommodation with care or extra care facilities to specialist providers.
Managing the Accommodation Needs of Older People (MANOP) team at Central Bedfordshire Council is actively promoting the open market development of extra care schemes across the district, as well as requiring mainstream housing designed to meet the needs of older people. The MANOP team is seeking to ensure
that adequate provision is made for older people in its residential development schemes. The Council have said that small scale development within or on the edges of towns or villages is preferable, as people like to stay close to their local community. It’s also important for housing for older people to be located close to services and facilities. The MANOP team said: “as over 75% of our older population own their homes there is a significant demand for open market extra care housing and there are currently no open market schemes in our area.” There are opportunities now to pursue sites through the planning process that are in accessible locations, on the edges of towns or villages to meet the housing needs of older people. In some cases the provision of such accommodation may help to facilitate the delivery of the residential scheme. If you have land that you consider may be suitable for this purpose or you wish to discuss this opportunity further, then please get in touch with us. Call or email Andrew Barr on 01234 362926 ahb@robinsonandhall.co.uk
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dISNEY came to the Borough on Friday 9 September to celebrate the ‘Magical Moments’ of our Looked After Children at their Annual Achievement Awards. The event took place at the University of Bedfordshire and provided an opportunity to celebrate the talents, achievements and successes of the children and young people who are supported and cared for by Bedford Borough Council. With a theme of ‘Children in Care Council (CiCC) You Tube presents; Magical Moments’, over 200 guests dressed to impress. The event consisted of an activity zone with a roaming magician, disney characters, glitter tattoos, balloon modelling and an interactive photobooth. This was followed by two award ceremonies (up to 11 years and one for 12 years +) for the 205 nominations that were received for young people by their social workers, teachers and foster carers. This year there were nine categories with one ‘winner’ coming from each age range: • Arts and Music award presented by local dance company 2-Step. • Bravery award presented by local You Tube Vlogger Ben Zanna. • Compassion award presented by You Tube sensations Jake Mitchel and Saffron Barker. • Education, Employment and Training award presented by Cllr Henry Vann. • Life Skills awards presented by The Mayor, dave Hodgson. • Personal development award presented by Chief Executive, Philip Simpkins. • Resilience award presented by Colin Foster, Chief Education Officer. • Sports award presented by Lance Haggith, from Sports Trader. • Transition award presented by Kevin Crompton, director of Children’s and Adults’ services. There were also two Outstanding Achievement winners per age category with their award being presented by Cllr Shan Hunt. Cllr Shan Hunt, Portfolio Holder for Children’s Social Care at Bedford Borough Council said: “Many children in care have had a tough life through no fault of their own and to witness their determination to achieve against all odds, it is not only moving, but inspiring.”
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New VIP visitor experience
BBC Radio 3 Counties star Justin Dealey popped into the Bedford Swan Hotel to talk about tourism. Pictured Justin with one of the Bedford Swan visitor hospitality team.
VISITORS coming from overseas to Bedford, head for the historic Swan Hotel. dating back to the 1700s the hotel is a dream location for Americans and more who are taking advantage of the well priced pound. “We bring in millions of pounds worth of business to Bedford town centre every year through overnight stay guests and functions,” explained Swan Sales and Marketing Manager Natasha Trudgill, “But we want local folk to understand that the Bedford Swan is open to them too - to enjoy drinks in the bar, or coffee and cakes and afternoon teas in our comfortable main seating area, The Terrace on sunny days and evenings, and our luxury spa. So we have decided to team up with Love Bedford to offer a VIP Visitor experience.” Visitors to the Bedford Swan Hotel will already find glossy local magazines on display to read or take away, they can buy Love Bedford gift vouchers for use in 270 other businesses in the town. Now they can also buy copies of the Love Bedfordsponsored 2017 calendar which has superb photographs of the riverside a great Christmas present* “We will also be making available copies of the Love Bedford mini
maps for the town centre, editions of Love Bedford magazines such as the Eating and drinking guide and more. “We have a close relationship with the tourism success that is John Bunyan Boat and during the summer people can book tea or champagne trips - they are very popular.” Now the hotel is offering a new menu in the Riverside Room restaurant, popular for Sunday lunches all year round, this location is a great place to enjoy a more special lunch. “We will be running a draw throughout October in reception here for people to win a lunch for four in the restaurant with a bottle of wine. “We want to people to Love Bedford as much as our overseas visitors do and to make the most of our VIP experience here at the Bedford Swan Hotel.” Christina Rowe, director of BedfordBId which represents 100s of town centre businesses said: “The influence of this hotel on people’s perception of Bedford town centre should not be underestimated. They have been long standing supporters of the BId, they helped get the John Bunyan Boat really underway and their riverside terrace has a big appeal for people. We think a VIP Visitor experience about sums up the Swan.”
KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016 — 15
16 — KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016
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Restoration success The flowering heather on the restored new heath at RSPB The Lodge is looking stunning this year. Work will continue during the winter months to clear the habitat of unwanted birch saplings, bramble and other growth to allow the area to improve for wildlife in future years.
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KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016 — 17
LOVING WHERE YOU LIVE
I and A Restaurants Ltd owner Ismail Anilmis motivated teams from his ten McDonald’s restaurants to join their local communities in improving their neighbourhoods. In Royston they installed a new bin and litter sign at a heath near the McDonald’s. In Stotfold they planted 16 trees together with a local scout group (above). In Leighton Buzzard they supported a fund-
raising event held as part of a 30th anniversary of the Leighton United Football Club of which Ismail is Honorary President. In Toddington they repainted bollards on the green. In Bedford town centre they helped the Salvation Army by presenting an art cabinet during a fun day. In Russell Park, Bedford, the team from the Aspects
restaurants repainted railings. At Benson in Oxfordshire they painted the village hall. At Didcot staff helped to refurbish furniture in the garden of an old people’s home. At Witney McDonald’s staff painted a mural on Duckington Lane underpass. The final event was at Leamington Spa where the team cleared land for a community garden.
18 — KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016
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Be four times more likely to quit this Stoptober!
STOPTOBER is fast-approaching! And the Bedfordshire Stop Smoking Service is inviting smokers to quit with their support for the best shot at kicking the habit this October. Returning for its fifth year, Stoptober is the mass quit campaign from Public Health England, which has helped thousands of smokers to stop smoking by encouraging them to give up for the month of October – and for the months and years that follow. Evidence shows that residents who use the Bedfordshire Stop Smoking Service are four times more likely to quit smoking, so do get in touch with us this Stoptober for free support. Cllr Louise Jackson, Portfolio Holder for Public Health at Bedford Borough Council, said: “By inviting people to give up smoking in the month of October, we hope they might feel able to extend giving up for even longer periods and, eventually, the smoking habit may totally lack appeal. We will support smokers every step of the way, from referral through to success.” Cllr Maurice Jones, Executive Member for Health at Central Bedfordshire Council, said: “The Stoptober campaign returns year after year because it works so well when someone makes it to 28 days smoke free, they are five times more
likely to quit for good. This, combined with the free, friendly support of our Stop Smoking Service, gives smokers a great shot at stop smoking success and making a positive change to benefit their health.” For support with your Stoptober challenge, it’s quick and easy to refer yourself, or friends and family, into the Bedfordshire Stop Smoking Service. Simply call 0800 013 0553 to book an appointment to see a specialist advisor at a time and place convenient to you. during your first appointment, you can spend up to 30 minutes with your advisor on a one-to-one basis. They will discuss your smoking habits and routines with you in order to tailor a stop-smoking plan specific to your needs. The advisor will also provide you with the right tools and techniques to help you quit, including nicotine replacement therapy and/or Champix (prescription charges may apply unless exempt). You will be able to have up to 12 weeks of support. Last year, over 215,000 people across England and Wales signed up to take part in Stoptober. For free, friendly advice on stopping smoking and to order a free ‘Quit Kit’, call 0800 013 0553. Alternatively, visit www.smokefreebedfordshire.co.uk
Garden notes by Richard Callaghan HER we are the end of one gardening year and the start of another. The year just ending was not exactly a good year but not a disastrous year either. I certainly cannot remember a year in which so many plots had begun to be stripped down and cleared as early as this year. Even runner beans which usually carry on until October are by now pretty much all gone, all thanks to the prolonged spell of lovely warm dry weather. It has just not been possible to keep them supplied with enough water to let them grow without going old.
Large areas of my plot have been sprayed off with glyphosate and will now be left to die off until November when I shall clear the ground ready to start again. All of my raspberries and black berries are going to let me sort out the bindweed as is my old asparagus bed which has just about run its course. The new raised bed should begin to give me a crop in the new year. Commercial Break Kempston
Hoo allotments have some full and some half plots vacant. Will anybody who is interested please contact David on 853163. Because of the weather my potatoes did not crop as heavily this year, but as we appear to be eating fewer potatoes I think that we should have just about the right quantity. The only potatoes I have not dug are my Sarpo mira, which are still ass green as anything. They have just kept going through blight and drought and have flowered twice so it could be I shall get two crops in one! As I get my ground ready I shall be setting winter onions, garlic, broad beans and peas. Broad beans and peas sown now produce earlier crops which frees ground for summer crops sooner. I also find that winter sown peas are much less affected by the pea moth as they are over be-fore it is about. We like douce Provence peas , because you get eight to ten little peas to a pod and they are as sweet as the little petit pois you get in the frozen section at a well known local store.
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Bedford financial adviser achieves chartered status
THE Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) has awarded the prestigious ‘Chartered Financial Planner’ title to david Hill of david Hill Wealth Management, one of Bedford’s leading providers of financial advice. Chartered status is an exclusive title only awarded to individuals that meet rigorous criteria relating to professionalism and capability. All Chartered Financial Planners commit to the CII’s Code of Ethics, reinforcing the highest standards of professional practice in their business dealings. david Hill focuses solely on providing face-to-face advice and offers a dedicated, personal wealth management service to build long-term, trusted relationships. He offers specialist advice in a wide range of areas, including Investment Planning, Retirement Planning and Inheritance Tax Planning. As an Associate Member of SOLLA, the Society of Later Life Advisers, david Hill is also qualified to advise in the more complex area of Care Fees Planning. david Hill says that securing Chartered Financial Planner status is a landmark for him personally: “I have always prided myself on being
thoroughly professional in everything I do and to receive external recognition in this way is very gratifying. As a Chartered Financial Planner, I can signal my commitment to the highest levels of service to my clients.” To date, just over 5,000 individuals have achieved Chartered status, indicating that this is a highly exclusive award reserved for the leading individuals within the financial advice market. For further information, contact david Hill on: 01234 480540.
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KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016 — 19
20 — KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016
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Dancers take top prizes at world championships
dANCERS from Bedfordshire’s premier dance school, dancevybz, beat teams from across the globe to take top podium positions in team and individual categories at the 2016 UdO World Street dance Championships at the SECC in Glasgow at the weekend. Four teams from the school achieved top ten positions: over 18 quad Wolva claimed fourth place in their age category and U14 team Outlawed secured fifth place, while U14 team Lilvybz and U18 team Frenzy ranked eighth and tenth respectively. In the individual categories, the school’s youngest dancer, George Gibson, just five years old, came fifth in the U6 solos competition, while Ruby Seymour, seven, came fourth in the U8 solos category. Bella Gibson and Tom Skoines, both just seven years old, came fifth in the U8 duos competition, and took fifth and sixth place respectively in the U8 solos final. Callum duggan, eight, came fifth in the U10 solos competition and Jack Skoines, 13, came fifth in the U14 solos category. dancevybz founder Stephanie Massey said: “Our achievements at the World Championships this weekend are strongest results we’ve had at international level since we started the school 10 years ago. I’m incredibly proud of all the dancers that attended the competition, and the way in which they represented the county and our country, but also of the commitment, hard work and passion of our teachers, without whom none of this would be possible.” dancevybz teams have performed all over the world. Our adult team Execute have previously ranked third in the world, and our boys crew Kazzum has won the UK Hip Hop Championships, competed in Las Vegas, and reached the live finals of Sky One’s ‘Got to dance’ in 2012.
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KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016 — 21
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empston’s own annual Fun Day held on August Bank Holiday Saturday was opened jointly by Nicola Weeks; The Mayor of Kempston, Cllr Carl Meader and Elinor Ashby, President of Bedford Lions Club. This annual event which is supported by Kempston Town Council has over the years supported many local charitable organisations. This year was no exception, with many charities having their own stalls at the event. Fortunately the weather which was threatening earlier in the day didn’t dampen the spirits of those who attended. Nicola who has appeared in Eastenders and toured in Pantos with Shane Ritchie, recently expanded her bridal shop business, George James Bridal, to much larger premises in Bromham Road, Bedford.
K
Firefighters demonstrating how they extinguish a chimney fire.
Keep your chimney safe
After the summer as temperatures fall again, you may be thinking about lighting your open fire or wood burner to warm your home and enjoy the flicker of a real coal or wood fire. However last year
we had dozens of chimney fires across the county and lighting an unswept chimney could lead to a serious fire caused by a blocked flue or build-up of half-burnt material in the chimney.
Follow these tips to keep your chimney fire safe:
I Ensure chimneys are I Ensure good quality and an appliance is purposely protect against flying set at a low or minimum sparks from hot embers. swept regularly by a appropriate fuel is used. output normally for overprofessional chimney I Never store the fuel next I Avoid blocking air vents, night burning to be revived sweep. to the appliance – so air bricks or otherwise in the morning without the I Between “sweeps” keep sparks do not set it alight. interrupting the air supply. need for relighting. chimneys, flues and I Ensure the fire is I Avoid ‘slumbering’ an appliances clean and well I Appliances that have been completely out before appliance unless it has maintained. lined still require regular been tested as safe to do going to bed or leaving the I Always use a fire guard to sweeping. so. Slumber mode is when house.
Get help finding a local professional chimney sweep from our website: www.bedsfire.com/CommunitySafety/HomeFireSafety/Pages/ChimneySafety.aspx
For more advice visit www.bedsfire.com Follow us on Twitter @Bedsfire or on Facebook www.facebook/bedsfire for more safety tips Get safety information & alerts direct from us via BedsAlert. Sign up at www.bedsfirealert.co.uk
24 — KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016
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Changes to household waste collections
BEdFORd Borough Council’s Executive has voted to accept changes to the frequency of black bin collections. The changes come following a seven week consultation in which a leaflet was sent to all households; the Council received 1,928 responses from residents. Subject to a seven day call in period, the decision means that commencing on Monday 31 October 2016 the collection system will operate on an alternate weekly basis – one week black bin collection and the following week orange and green lidded bin collections. In addition, changes to the garden waste collection service will be commencing in december 2016. These changes mean there will be no garden waste collections from beginning of december to the end February each year; and as well as this, the option to use green sacks will be removed. However, residents currently using green sacks will be able to request a green bin for the disposal of their garden waste. The changes come as Bedford Borough Council faces further government funding cuts which mean savings of over £23 million will need
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Paralympic legacy
to be made from its annual budget by 2019. In addition, the £3 million government funding for weekly waste collections is expiring this year and not being replaced. The changes to bin collections will save over £500,000 a year through a reduction in temporary staff required to support the service, as well as a reduction in the number of vehicles involved and savings in fuel and maintenance costs.
In addition the changes will bring environmental benefits, including encouraging residents to recycle more and reducing the amount of black bin waste sent to landfill as well as a reduction in traffic and emissions. In light of these upcoming changes, and concerns from residents regarding a lack of bin capacity, the Council is keen to remind residents of the ways in which they can recycle and reduce waste, thereby saving space in their black bin. Visit the Council’s Rubbish and Recycling page for details of what can be recycled in your orange bins; locations and opening times of recycling centres; and waste reduction tips.
RECYCLE MORE
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FOLLOWING the inspirational performances of GB paralympians at Rio, local folk have a chance to test themselves in wheelchairs. Businesses, clubs and organisations are sought to sign up for the Rotary Wheelchair Challenge at Bedford Athletic Stadium in Barker’s Lane on Sunday October 9th. In 2012 Howard Darbon, President of Sport Bedford and friends helped to host paralympians at the pre Games camp at the Polhill campus of the University of Bedfordshire The Bedford wheelchair event was launched after the London Olympics to keep the legacy of paralympic sports alive in the UK. Since then it has attracted support from Baldock, Biggleswade and Bedford organisations and money raised has helped train a range of sports coaches for disabled people. This year the organisers would like to see schools, sports groups, joggers and others who enjoy fitness to get together to take part. Any sponsorship would be gratefully received. Contact Mary Whitehead m.e.whitehead@ btinternet.com www.rotary-site.org/wheelchairchallenge
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Festival of Flight celebrates 70 years
Cranfield University celebrated its 70th anniversary in September with a Festival of Flight hosted at the University’s Bedfordshire campus. Members of staff and their families, alumni and the local community all visited the campus to see behind the scenes at the specialist postgraduate institution during an Open doors morning. This showcased the latest areas of research at the University and gave children the opportunity to see scientific demonstrations in action. In the afternoon, over 5,000 people watched an air display, with many of the aircraft on a static display having special links to the University’s heritage. His Royal Highness, The duke of Kent, Cranfield’s Visitor, appointed by Her Majesty The Queen, also arrived to see some of the attractions. The duke met the air cadets assisting the staff with the event and spoke to owners at the vehicle exhibition before visiting the static aircraft display. Cranfield’s Chief Executive and ViceChancellor, Professor Sir Peter Gregson, said: “Celebrating our anniversary year with a Festival of Flight was a wonderful way to reflect on our 70-year heritage. We showcased some of the ground-breaking research that will play a significant role in the future of aerospace and used the occasion to demonstrate other areas of research for which we are recognised internationally.” Professor Iain Gray, director of Aerospace
at Cranfield University, commented: “Cranfield is a unique university with our own airport on campus. Air displays at Cranfield used to be a regular occurrence in the past, so we were delighted to open our doors and host another one. Looking forward, we want to be recognised as the number one aerospace university in Europe.” Cranfield has links with around 1,500 companies and organisations across the world and the event was supported by companies
including Anglian Water, British Airways, Monarch, Nissan Technical Centre and Unilever. The busy weekend concluded on Sunday with families ‘riding the runway’ raising money for Flying Start, British Airways’ and Comic Relief’s global charity partnership. A group of around 40 cyclists then rode to Cranfield’s other campus at Shrivenham in the Wiltshire/Oxfordshire border, which just happens to be 70 miles away.
26 — KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016
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Bedford’s great sporting icons
by Ken Broughton
EdFORd has had its fair share of sporting icons over the years and probably the most famous is Paula Radcliffe, although she wasn’t actually born here but up north in Cheshire, not far from Northwich on december 7th 1973. Her family moved to Oakley near Bedford when she was 12 and she attended Sharnbrook Upper School. Paula showed great promise as an athlete from an early age and encouraged by both parents she joined Bedford and County Athletics Club with Its outstanding facilities at their stadium on Newnham Avenue. At 13 she finished fourth in Te English Schools Cross Country Championships. This was in 1987 and four years later she won The English Schools 1500 metres title. 1992 saw Paula winning the IAAF Cross Country Championships in Boston USA. From then onwards it was success after success followed by worldwide fame at International level with gold medals at Commonwealth and European Games. Although she competed at the 1996, 2000, 2004, and 2008 Olympic Games she unfortunately never won a gold, silver or even a bronze medal in any of the events she competed in; her best performance being fourth in the 10,000 metres at the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, Australia. In 2002 Paula made the move up to the marathon event which paid off with a victory in that years London Marathon which she won on three occasions, as she did the New York Marathon and she also won the 2002 Chicago Marathon. She is also the current holder of the women marathon world record with a time of 2hr. 15m 25s and was awarded an MBE in June 2002 and later that year was voted the BBC Sports Personality of the Year. To list all her achievements would take up too much writing space and anyway they have been well documented. A true sporting icon. Harold Abrahams CBE was born in Bedford on december 15th 1899 of Jewish parents. He attended Bedford School and Repton School before winning a scholarship to Caius College in Cambridge. He was a top class athlete excelling at running and in the long jump and during his time at Cambridge won a total of eighth events in the annual athletics match against Oxford University and his debut in 1920 at the triangular tournament between England, Ireland and Scotland saw him win the 220 yards race. Later that same year he competed, without success for Great Britain in the Olympic Games at Antwerp, Belgium but his defining moment however, came at the 1924 Olympiad in Paris, France when he won a gold medal in the 100 metres final. This feat was depicted in the 1981 Oscar winning movie ‘Chariots of Fire’ along with team mate Eric Liddle, who won a gold medal in the 400 metres final. Abrahams also won silver in the 4 x 100 metres final and Liddle in the 200 metres final. His
athletics career came to an end in 1925 when breaking a leg in a long jump event, a competition he also took part in at the 1920 Olympics. Although he dominated British sprint and long jump events for several years, Abrahams, after graduating from Cambridge, pursued a legal career and subsequently became an athletics journalist and the author of several books covering his sport. He joined the BBC as a sports commentator and was awarded a CBE in 1957. He also became President of the Jewish Athletics Association and Chairman of the Amateur Athletics Association (A.A.A.) He died in Enfield on January 14th 1978 and a blue plaque bearing his name, from the Heritage Foundation was unveiled at his birthplace in Rutland Road, Bedford on July 8th 2012, to coincide with the Olympic torch relay passing through the town. derek Prior ‘Budge’ Rogers OBE, was born in Bedford on June 20th 1939 and he also, like Abrahams before him was educated at Bedford School and made his debut for Bedford Blues Rugby Club whilst still in his final year at school, in a Boxing day fixture against Old Paulines and the following week played against Leicester. The following year he was more or less a regular in the Blues line up as an open side wing forward or flanker as this position is sometimes known. He was a first team player for 20 years and by the time he was 20 years of age he had played in several trial matches for England and finally made his debut for his country on 11.02.61. against Ireland in dublin, a match they lost 11-8 but he did have the satisfaction of scoring a try for England and his final game was against Wales in Cardiff 12.04.69. which Wales won 30-9. Budge was Captain this match and his final England record was P34 W10 d4 and L18 and he scored three tries in these games. He captained the team on seven occasions. He also played for The British Lions on their 1962 tour to South Africa and many times for the Barbarians, an invitational team based in Britain. The ‘Baa Baas’ as they are nicknamed play in traditional black and white hoop shirts but the players retain the socks from their home club strip. It is considered an Honour to be invited to play for them. They have no home ground. I saw Budge play just once for England apart from on TV of course and that was against Scotland on 18.03.67 at Twickenham and they won 27-14. I also saw him play many times for Bedford Blues and was at Twickenham (you bet I was) when as captain he led them to a 28-12 victory over Rosslyn Park in the 1975 Rugby Union Knockout Cup which attracted a crowd of almost 18000, an attendance record for the final at that time. In 1969 he was awarded an OBE by the Queen for services to Rugby and in the mid 1980s he was Chairman of the England team selection committee. In 2000 he managed the England team and in 2001 was Rugby Football Union President. I didn’t know Budge personally, but for
many years his parents kept the King William IV pub in Kempston, but I, along with several of my mates used to drink in the King Bill as it is sometimes known. We knew his father Harry reasonably well as he was a very friendly and popular landlord and remember him telling us at the time that Budge was a keen Chelsea supporter. This was in the Peter Osgood, Bobby Tambling era. My earliest memory of Budge and his younger brother Chris (they looked almost identical) is of them both fishing down Kempston Mill behind the King William when I was about ten and Budge, I think it was, telling my mate Jimmy Litchfield that they were going pike fishing. I think Jim used to know them quite well back in those days. What I do remember quite well though is walking home from Bedford to Kempston in the early hours one Sunday morning around 1968/69 and had got to Bedford South Wing Hospital when suddenly this two seater sports car pulled up in the middle of the road and the driver opened the passenger door and called to me to ‘hop in and I’ll give you a lift to Kempston.’ I thought for a moment it was Budge because they looked so alike but it was in fact his brother Chris and he dropped me off at the bottom of Wyatt Road and wished me well. I very much doubt he remembers it but I have never forgotten his good samaritan act that early Sunday morning. I should mention, in passing, another of Bedford’s well know sportsmen. I am referring to Gerald ‘Beef’ dancer who played as a prop froward for Bedford Blues from 1928 - 1948. He was born in Bedford in 1911 and won a scholarship to Bedford Modern School where he began playing Rugby. In the late 1930s he was regraded as one of the best prop forwards in the country but despite playing in several trial matches was never rewarded with an England International Cap. However he was selected for the British Lions Tour in 1938 to South Africa where he played in all three of the International Test Matches against South Africa. The Springboks won the first two games but lost the last when The Lions beat them 21-16 with Beef scoring one of The Lions second half tries. After retiring from Rugby, Beef was landlord of The Griffin pub in Kempston, one of many of our regular watering holes and we got to know him very well. He always seems reluctant to talk about his Rugby career, preferring to discuss his favourite sport which was boxing. He used to attend most of the big fights in London and got me a ticket for the first big fight I ever saw. The British and Commonwealth Heavyweight Championships between Henry Cooper and Joe Erskine at Earls Court London, November 17 1959. It still remains the best fight I have ever seen which ended in round 12 with a KO for Cooper. Beef died in August 1991. He was one of the best. Until next time, Ken
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KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016 — 27
Carers in Bedfordshire
Wenta, helps national charity to deliver self-employment advice
LEAdING enterprise agency for Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire, Wenta, have provided essential training on self-employment to over 220 employment advisers at national charity, The Shaw Trust, following a recent partnership. This training has provided advisers at The Shaw Trust with vital advice, information and tools needed to help their clients – particularly those that are disabled or ‘hard to reach’ and looking to set up their own business. The Shaw Trust, formed in 1982, now supports over 50,000 people a year to live independent and inclusive lives nationwide. Wenta, a social enterprise that has been providing support and advice to those considering, starting and growing their own business for over 32 years, are proud to have played a vital part in this support. 20 bespoke workshops were delivered by Wenta trainers at multiple ‘Shaw Trust’ locations from Portsmouth to Glasgow.
Advisers at The Shaw Trust now also have access to Wenta’s award-winning online, live chat, business advice platform which has proved to be a popular tool for advisers to access ongoing support, resources and immediate advice when needed. Commenting on the partnership, Sharon Gaffney, Head of Education and Skills at Wenta, said: “This has been an exciting and innovative project. The course was interactive and involved Shaw Trust Advisers creating ‘mock businesses’ – enabling them to understand the concept fully. It is extremely rewarding to know we are helping people nationally to achieve their dream of running their own business.” If you’re thinking of starting a business, looking for support with an existing one, or would like ‘self-employment training’ delivered within your organisation, get in touch with Wenta today at www.wenta.co.uk.
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dId you know there are over six million unpaid carers in the UK? That means one in ten adults in the UK is a carer. Around half of carers in England said their health had been affected because of the care they provide. Many give up an income, future employment prospects and pension rights to become a carer. It is also thought that up to 700,000 children could be caring for family members or friends. Recent statistics from the Young Carers breaks project at Carers in Bedfordshire report that an average of 74% of young carers suffer from stress, anxiety or depression due to their caring role. Carers in Bedfordshire is a charity which helps family carers and former carers cope with the mental and physical stresses arising from their role. A family carer is anyone, of any age, who as a part of their normal life, offers help and support to a relative or friend who could not manage without them. Our local office at the Sea Cadet HQ in Station Road, Bigglewsade offers an opportunity to seek one to one support advice, information, groups, training and a regular Carers newsletter. Carers can enjoy being part of our Carers choir, access relaxation therapies or find information about carers grants. We would love to hear from any family carers who feel they would like to register with us and find out more about our service. For further information go to www.carersinbeds.org.uk or call the Biggleswade office on 01767 315079.
Meet Tracy Selena Jones – founder of Yoga Fit UK. Her Yoga journey began 15 years ago, in South Africa. After a suffering severe injuries from a car accident, Tracy found that Yoga was the crucial key to her recovery, not just physically but mentally too. After finally healing and leaving SA in 2009, Tracy began to feel compelled to share her experience of the healing powers of Yoga and qualified as a Yoga instructor in Spain. Returning to London, her birthplace, in 2012, Tracy began teaching Yoga to private individuals and group classes, which flourished. Her passion for yoga and her humble ability to guide her yogis, young/old, male/female, large/ small, bendy and un-bendy, through each of their own personal yoga journey’s with gentle grace, made her a very popular teacher indeed. Luckily for us, Tracy has now decided to make Kempston her home and has secured the studio at Project 229 for group classes which begin in October. The weekly sessions of gentle Hatha Yoga are especially suitable for beginners. For more info please contact Tracy on: 0781 4466 886 or visit: www.yogafituk.com
Did you know you can have your leaflet delivered with the Kempston Calling?
Reach over 9,000 homes in KEMPSTON with your leaflet. We also provide a full design and print service. Call Martin on 07894 935952 for more details
28 — KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016
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EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
View from
In Focus with
Bishop Richard
Dave
by Rt Revd Richard Atkinson Bishop of Bedford
ALL GOOD GIFTS AROUND US
REVd Robert Hawker, the nineteenth century Vicar of Morwenstow in North Cornwall, was an eccentric Parson. He dressed in bright and mismatched clothing; spent many hours sitting in a small wooden hut overlooking the sea writing verse; and once excommunicated his cat for mousing on a Sunday. Robert Hawker is however also remembered because he introduced the Harvest Festival service when in 1843 he held a service in Morwenstow church to give thanks for the bounty of the harvest. Celebrated on October 1st the bread at the Communion Service was made from the first cut of the corn. This harvest celebration struck a chord and harvest services continue to this day; occasions for farming communities in particular, but also for all of us, to give thanks for the fruit of the earth, for its harvest and those who bring it in. Having said that, the theme of thanksgiving for harvest is an ancient one. Farming communities also had their local ways of celebrating the successful bringing in of the crops. What Revd Hawker did was to make it a much loved part of the church’s year. There is still something very special about a harvest service in a church decorated with vegetables, fruit and flowers; with a harvest bread baked in the shape of a corn sheaf; and with a congregation that includes local farmers. For even in a world of highly mechanised and technological farming, where so many of the issues are global, there is a vital place for quiet thanksgiving and a recognition of the bounty of God’s earth. Harvest Festival is a time for us all to say thank you. All good gifts around us Are sent from heaven above; Then thank the Lord, O thank the Lord, For all his love.
SATURDAY SURGERIES Richard holds regular surgeries at Project 229, Bedford Road, Kempston If you would like to book an appointment, please call (01234) 261487
by Dave Hodgson Mayor of Bedford
SIGN UP AND STAY CONNECTED
BEdFORd Borough Council is facing a full-blown funding crisis, caused by relentless, unprecedented government cuts for local services. Those funding cuts coincide with a sharply rising need for services, particularly social care for the elderly and the vulnerable. While I am leader of Bedford Borough Council, we will never turn our backs on the vulnerable and those most in need of support. With a funding gap by 2019 of £27.5 million, further action is therefore needed elsewhere if we are to balance the books, as required by law. We have already had to achieve savings of £90 million since 2010, and have fought successfully to protect services as far as possible, including many which have simply been disappearing elsewhere. We have achieved this by focusing savings in Borough Hall, not out in the community. With extensive efficiencies already achieved, however, the scope for making savings away from the front line is reduced. Nevertheless, we are taking major measures which will help in this effort. Central to this is the Council’s digital Transformation Plan. The digitalisation of Council services and processes will save £10 million annually while also making more services available online, 24/7. Tough decisions are simply unavoidable, though. For example, the government is stopping the weekly collections support grant in addition to its massive overall funding cuts, forcing Bedford Borough to join the overwhelming majority of areas which have fortnightly black bin collection. Other service changes are being consulted on this Autumn, so please have a look and take part. You can keep up-to-date with Council consultations and services by signing up to its ‘Stay Connected’ email service via Bedford.gov.uk. The best way to tackle a crisis is by working together, as we fight to get the best for Bedford Borough in what is a desperate funding situation for local public services.
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In Focus with
Fuller Richard Fuller MP for Bedford & Kempston
CYCLISTS – CIVILITY NOT CONVENIENCE
RECENTLY we have looked at ways to improve the safety and road experience of cyclists. Cycling groups have rightly raised concerns about deaths and injuries caused by poor and inconsiderate driving and lobbied for investment in cycling lanes. Walking around town, though, I am forced to question whether we have got the balance right – or indeed still know what the rules for cyclists are. I took a look at the Highway Code to remind me of some of the rules. Wearing a helmet (Rule 59) and having white front and red rear lights at night (Rule 60) are well known, but any walk through town in the evening will provide numerous examples where these rules are flouted. Rules 61 to 63 refer to cycle tracks or cycle lanes of which we now have many in town – but there is no requirement for cyclists to use them. Why not? If taxpayers’ money is spent to create them, should cyclists be required to use them – not opt to use the main pathway or road? Which brings us to Rule 64 “You MUST NOT cycle on a pavement” - emphasis provided by the Highway Code. Every day, however, people routinely cycle on the pavements sometimes at great speed causing potential risk to pedestrians. Constituents have told me of the abrupt, rude or threatening response from cyclists if they challenge them to ride on the road. Few people would object to cyclists using the pavements at busy junctions or when traffic is dangerous – but is cycling on pavements the new rule? Enforcement of the rules is nigh impossible currently – though there may be phone apps in the future that can help – so we rely on people knowing, and following, the rules. Civility not convenience should be the primary concern. Cycling UK, the national lobby group for cyclists should consider balancing its role defending cyclists’ rights by campaigning for the rights of pedestrians as well.
KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016 — 29
Monthly update from the Police and Crime Commissioner by Kathryn Holloway
NEW DEAL FOR PARISHES
A FAIRER deal on policing – whether you live in the town or country - was the focus of my first annual Parish Councils’ Conference on 10 September, which I hosted alongside the Chief Constable Jon Boutcher and other senior officers at the Council Chambers in Chicksands. I expressed from early on in my Police and Crime Plan that I wanted an annual forum with parish councillors as they are an absolutely vital link between Bedfordshire Police and the rest of the community. Parish councillors are our eyes and ears to pass on crucial information about crimes and anti-social behaviour happening in the villages and smaller towns and, also, I wanted to pass on the word to local residents of what the Force is doing and why to tackle crime. I intend to hold one every year of my administration. The top tier team from Bedfordshire Police joined me at the meeting to show just how seriously rural crime issues are now being taken by the Force and to pass on the information about its operations to get on top of matters from fly-tipping to illegal travellers’ encampments. The aim of these events is also to let parishes know just what other pressures Bedfordshire Police are facing across the board on a day to day basis. Chief Constable Boutcher confirmed that the Force has not only appointed a Rural Crime Liaison officer to work with parishes and a network of members of the National Farmers’ Union and other Countryside organisations, but tasked Inspector Tracey day with drawing up a business case for a new Rural Crime Unit dedicated to preventing and investigating crimes in the countryside. Parish Councillors heard further presentations on correct use of the 101 number for non-life-threatening incidents and the need to support the Force in recruitment of Village Specials with full policing powers from Head of the Special Constabulary and Force Control Room, Wayne Humberstone. Inspector Hob Hoque of the Community Cohesion Team stressed that his officers want to build bridges to parish neighbourhoods as well as with urban diverse communities. All parishes were asked to come up with three top policing priorities in their area which will be addressed at a follow-up event on december 16 at a venue to be announced..
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30 — KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
out & about Dracula comes to Bedford The Place, Bradgate Road, Bedford 19-22 October 2016
Bedford drama Company is excited to announce its pre-Halloween production of a brand new stage version of Bram Stoker’s classic horror, dracula. This gripping new adaption by Stephen dietz restores the suspense and seduction of the classic novel to the stage. As Count dracula begins to exert his will upon the residents of London, they try to piece together the clues of his appearance, in a valiant attempt to save themselves from a hideous fate. Rich with both humour and horror, this play paints a wickedly theatrical picture of Stoker’s famous Vampire. The show is being directed by Lorna dawson, who in recent years has been responsible for successfully bringing other literary classics to the Bedford stage, such as Little Women and the diary of Anne Frank. On her choice of dracula, she said: “despite the ghoulish nature of this story, it’s a lot of fun to produce
and direct and I’m convinced audiences are really going to enjoy it. After many conversations about how to set the play we have chosen to keep it very original and true to the gothic period. There are many technical challenges, not least because of the amount of stage blood
required! I’m sure the show will get our audiences in the mood for Halloween this year!” The show promises to be dramatic and genuinely chilling. Therefore it is not suitable for children or anybody who considers themselves to be of a sensitive
disposition. dracula is at The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3dE from 19th – 22nd October. Tickets are priced at £9.50 and £8.00 for concessions. They are available online via www.theplacebedford.org.uk or from The Place Box Office (01234) 354321. This show is not suitable for children; parental guidance is advised for those aged 16-18. All performances commence at 7.30pm. By arrangement with the dramatists Play Service.
At Les Petits Lapins, children learn French in a fun and engaging way using songs, rhymes and games. Please join us for a free session on Tuesday October 11th at 4.30pm at Project 229. Children of all ages are welcome. To book a place on the free taster session, email: verity.payne@gmail.com or search Les Petits Lapins Bedford on Facebook and message me.
French lessons
Harvest Festival
PARISH CHURCH OF THE TRANSFIGURATION
THE PARISH CHURCH OF ALL SAINTS
Kempston
Kempston
Bedford Road across from Addison Howard Park
HARVEST ALL AGE PRAISE SERVICE October 2nd 10.45am In this service we give thanks to God for the bounty of His gifts. This is a wonderful service if you are new to the church or if you are returning. WORSHIP, ADULT SERMON, PUPPETS AND CRAFTS A collection of fresh & non-perishable foods will be taken during the service and auctioned off afterwards to support the work of charities and the Bishop of St. Albans’ Harvest Appeal 2016 ‘Life Giving Water’
Off Cemetery Road – the church by the river
HARVEST FESTIVAL SERVICE October 2nd 10.30am This is an opportunity to remember how hugely blessed we are in this country with good soil and weather for food production as well as our ability to import goods from around the world – and give thanks to God. A collection of fresh and non-perishable foods, and toiletries will be taken during the service to support the local charity for the homeless, The Prebend Street Day Centre, as well as a money collection for the Bishop of St. Albans’ Harvest Appeal 2016 ‘Life Giving Water’ which is aiming to transform lives in rural Madagascar by providing clean, safe water.
CONTACT:
Rev’d Lydia Humphreys 01234 854886
www.allsaintskempston.com
32 — KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
Castle Comedy The Gordon Arms Bedford Thursday October 13th
On Thursday October 13th, The Gordon Arms, Bedford welcomes Perrier Comedy Award nominee, Luke Toulson! Luke is in demand at the top comedy clubs in the country and has a deserved reputation, of being an act that guarantees big laughs. He has starred on BBC3’s ‘Russell Howard’s Good News’ and has written for Stand Up For The Week (Ch4) and Stand Up For Sport Relief (BBC1). He is also a regular voice on the radio with credits that include being a guest on ‘The Back
End Of Next Week’ (5live), ‘Loose Ends’ (Radio 4) and ‘Hawksbee and Jacobs’ (talkSPORT). In 2013 his solo show ‘I don’t Know How I Feel About My Kids’ was selected by Amused Moose as one of the Top 10 Comedy Shows at
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
the Edinburgh Fringe. “A gifted comic” The Sunday Times “a highly skilled and very, very funny comedian” ThreeWeeks Opening the show is Steve Best. Steve is a great visual comedian, harnessing a mind-boggling array of gadgets and gags to keep his audience in stitches. Funny, frenetic and mad, his act can feature anything from blowing up a woman and eating balloons, to cutting his hand off and doing press-ups on his willy. His unique form of slapstick comedy is backed up with astounding talent; he plays the guitar like a genius, can juggle five balls, ride a unicycle and is fluent in Serbo-Croatian!
“Inspired collection of visual japes” Time Out Also appearing is American comedienne Robyn Perkins who has been bringing her ‘engaging persona’ (Steve Bennett, Chortle) to comedy clubs around the UK and US since 2011. The shows sell out quickly, with the dinner & Show tickets being particularly popular, so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment! doors open 6.30pm, Shows start at 8.00pm and tickets are £8 (£6 NUS) or if you fancy a treat, you can buy £16/tickets, which include a pre, show meal and glass of wine from the Gordon Arms. To book visit www.castlecomedy.co.uk
Pumpkins were the new crop grown this year on the family farm of Franklin’s of Thorncote in readiness for the annual Autumn Open day on Saturday October 29th . John Franklin, pictured here amid the still-growing vegetable patch, and family will be opening the gates of the really rural site from 9am - 4 pm. This free of charge family fun day is a great hit with locals who can sample and buy a selection of free range foods and products such as meats, jams, cheese, chutneys and puddings. There will be BBQ and Hog Roast too. Franklin’s Farm is a real ‘field to fork’ business with a small number of pigs, sheep, poultry and cattle enjoying the country life before being prepared and sold via the butchery and shop on site. Farmer’s wife Anna said: “We have 400 geese which roam the green, green grass of home and we are a free range farm interested in animal welfare. They have a good life here.” The farm has been in John’s family for 60 years - and he was born there and took the business 25 years ago.
Autumn Open Day
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016 — 33
HALLOWEEN FUN DAY - Saturday 29 October 2016 -
Pumpkin carving, food tasting, face painting, family fun and prizes to be won!
Visit us at Cople Road, Cardington, Bedford, MK44 3SH Tel: 01234 831222 summerhillfarmshop.co.uk Mon to Sat 9am-5pm
Ethically reared local meat, fresh bread, fruit and vegetables, extensive range of British cheeses, local ales, wines and hampers.
Sunday 10am-4pm
Remembrance Services in Kempston 2016 ROYAL BRITISH LEGION ANNUAL SERVICE 13 November at 2.30pm east methodist church, bedford road, Kempston followed by laying of wreaths at st John’s street war memorial
BEDFORDSHIRE AND HERTFORDSHIRE REGIMENT ANNUAL SERVICE 20 November at Noon please gather at 11.30am laying of wreaths at war memorial opposite the Keep Poppies will be available to purchase from the Town Council office from the end of October 2016 during office open hours.
Free car parking and easy access
34 — KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016
Pumpkin Trail and Treats Pumpkin activities and trail around the gardens at Knebworth House – spooky fun and games for children. Come along in your Halloween fancy dress (adults too!). There will be a children’s fancy dress competition during the afternoonBring along a predecorated pumpkin – there is a
26/27/28th October
daily prize for the best one.
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
The Garden Terrace Tea Room will be open during the event for the sale of hot drinks and snacks. The Gift Shop and dinosaur Trail will also be open but other Knebworth attractions including the House and Adventure Playground will be closed.
Ticket prices: Adults £3.50. Child (2-12) tickets £12.00 for Trail + disco, or £6.75 for just the Trail. Book online www.knebworthhouse.com
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
exhibition m
Picasso and the Masters of Print The Higgins Bedford 15th October
Picasso & the Masters of Print opens at The Higgins Bedford on 15th October 2016; offering a unique opportunity to view some of the most important prints by one of the most highly regarded artists of the 20th century. Renowned for his paintings and sculptures, Picasso was also the twentieth century’s greatest printmaker and the seven prints by Picasso held at The Higgins Bedford spectacularly showcase the varied printmaking techniques that he mastered. The print Still Life under the Lamp, 1962 is a highlight of the exhibition and one of Picasso’s best known linocuts. By then in his 80s Picasso continued to innovate, using a complex new technique to create this colourful night-time scene. The Frugal Meal, 1904, is the earliest work in the exhibition and one of the last works of Picasso’s Blue Period. A haunting depiction of
an emaciated couple in a café in Montmarte, The Frugal Meal is considered to be one of the masterpieces of twentieth century graphic art. These stunning works will be accompanied by a wider exhibition of major artists’ original prints drawn from the Cecil Higgins Collection and further afield. Five centuries of printmaking will be on show, ranging from masterpieces by key figures in the history of European printmaking, such as Rembrandt, Picasso and Matisse. Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, Councillor Sarah-Jayne Holland said:”The fact that you are able to see the work of one of the twentieth centuries’ most revered artists in Bedford Borough is truly fantastic and I would like to encourage everyone to visit the new exhibition when it opens this Autumn.” The prestigious collection of more than 400 prints housed at The Higgins Bedford spans all periods, styles and techniques of printmaking and includes the work of leading international artists, including Rembrandt, Warhol, Lichtenstein and Hockney.
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
THE
con club
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Sat 1st October
Sat 29th October
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KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016 — 35
Sat 8th October THE FANTASTIC BAND
INFUZION Sat 15th October
HALLOWEEN FANCY DRESS PARTY IN BEDFORD prizes for best dressed kids and adults... hot food... disco... room all dressed – gonna be an epic party
Modern country night with
Sun 30th October
ROUGH DIAMOND
OPEN MIC WITH THE BRILLIANT VOICE OF THE
Sat 22nd October Big entertainment with the brilliantly amazing PINK TRIBUTE NIGHT with
ZOE as seen on X FACTOR
V.I.PEAS
DANNI BENTLEY Sat 5th November The amazing voice of
RICHIE DIARY DATES 26th Novenber The unmissable
JOE SCRIPPS & his SAM SMITH & OLLY MURS TRIBUTE NIGHT the #1 tribute
Names are now being taken for TEA WITH SANTA please call in for details Names being taken for the ADULTS CHRISTMAS PARTY
MEMBERSHIP IS NOW CLOSING WE WILL NOT BE TAKING ANY NEW MEMBERS AFTER THE 31ST OCT IF YOU WISH TO USE THE CLUB OVER THE NEXT FEW MONTHS IT WILL BE £5 PER PERSON ON A SATURDAY NIGHT ALSO NEW YEAR’S EVE IS MEMBERS ONLY SO GET JOINING NOW WHILE IT’S ONLY £10 PER FAMILY (YOU+PARTNER+ANY KIDS UNDER 18)
CHECK FOR DETAILS www.facebook.com/conclub.kempston
36 — KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016
BEDFORD ORGAN & KEYBOARD CLUB THE ADDISON CENTRE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
PRESENT POPULAR ORGANIST
CHIHO SUNAMOTO IN CONCERT WEDNESDAY 29 OCTOBER 7.30 – 10.00pm –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Members £5 PAY AT Non-Members £6 DOOR –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Contact: 01234 344423 www/Organfax/clubs/Bedford ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
KEMPSTON AND DISTRICT MODEL RAILWAY SOCIETY
Every Monday 7.30 to 10.00 At the Church of the Transfiguration rear church hall New members welcome For further details contact Brian Woodcock on 07795251988 or brianwoodcock@btinternet.com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– AddISON CENTRE KEMPSTON FUNd RAISING
TEA DANCE MON 10th OCT 2016 2.00pm to 4.30pm £2.50 (INCL CUPPA) Tel: 01234 851877 or 01234 340997 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
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
BIddENHAM GARdENERS ASSOCIATION Tuesday 18th October at 7:30 Biddenham Village Hall
––––––––––––––––––––––––
COLOUR IN THE AUTUMN GARDEN by Roger Harvey
Visitors very welcome Admission £5 per meeting includes raffle & refreshments Website: www.biddenhamgarden ersassociation.org.uk
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– KEMPSTON MUSICAL SOCIETY
CONCERT
Kempston Musical Society will be performing a concert of sacred and light music at Putnoe Heights Methodist Church Saturday 15th October 7:30pm. Tickets cost £7.50, (£4.00 children) on the door. Proceeds to the church’s Autumn Charity Appeal and Church Funds. For more information about the choir please call 01234 781010. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BEdFORd RSPB LOCAL GROUP meet at ARA club Manton Lane Bedford MK41 7PF. On Thursday 20th October 2016 at 7.30p.m.
Carl Barimore Presents ‘The Nest Record Scheme’
Outlining the work of the BTO to monitor breeding birds in the UK. Suitable for Experts and Novices, RSPB membership not essential. Entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 annual group membership £5 More info www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BEdFORdSHIRE FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY
Interested in Family History? Then come along to one of our monthly talks Friday 7th October 7.15 p.m.
THE FORGOTTEN SPY –––––––––––– Friday 4th November 7.15p.m.
WHAT HAPPENED TO LUCY? Drama Hall of Mark Rutherford School, Wentworth Drive Bedford MK41 8PX Members free, visitors £1. www.bfhs.org.uk –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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
–––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BEdFORd LOCAL GROUP OF THE WILdLIFE TRUST Wednesday 12th October 2016 Meeting 7.30pm
‘CLIMATE CHANGE AND LOCAL WILDLIFE’ an illustrated talk by Brian Eversham
Priory Methodist Church Hall, Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ. Plenty parking available, All welcome, no charge but voluntary contributions are appreciated. Further details available under Events on www.wildlifebcn.org or at 01234 266057 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– This year the Scout Association is celebrating 100 years of Scouting. But in Bromham, 2016 sees the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Bromham Scout Group. From its inception in 1966 the Group has grown to include Beavers, Cubs and Scouts – both boys and girls – currently totalling 100+ members. To help keep their camping equipment up to date, our next fundraising event will be BROMHAM SCOUT GROUP
DO YOUR BEST!
JUMBLE SALE
Saturday, 8 October, from 2pm. Bromham Village Hall, Village Road, Bromham, MK43 8JP. We sell clothing, household textiles, shoes & bags; books, toys, games, jigsaws & bric-a-brac. Entry 50p. Refreshments available. Proceeds of the sale help fund the Bromham Beaver, Cub & Scout groups. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ST JOHN’S HOSPICE forthcoming events
CHARITY BALL
12 November – 7pm – 1.00am Our yearly ball will be taking place at The Park Inn Hotel Bedford. Get your glam rags ready and register your interest. For further info call 01767 642412 Email: stjohnsfundraising@sueryder.org –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ALL SAINTS NATTER CLUB
Guest speaker is
OCTOBER 2016
Jeremy Oetgen talking on Medieval Bedford On Thursday 20th , 2pm – 5pm in Church Hall Kempston Entry £1 including teas, coffees & cakes. Raffle tickets £1 All Welcome Further information Vikki Clarke 01234 843669
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
WORLD SHIP SOCIETY BEDFORD BRANCH Meetings held Kempston Constitution Club 196A Bedford Road, Kempston 3rd WEdNESdAY in the month 19:30 for 20:00 start
19 October 2016 Edward Parry giving a shipping video presentation Branch Secretary, dave Menzies Telephone: 01234 352014 e-mail : dave.menzies@tiscali.co.uk
BROMHAM ANNUAL
––––––––––––––––––––––––
CHARITY BAZAAR
Saturday 29th October 2016 Bromham Village Hall 1.30pm Admission 30p Children Free Crafts, Tombola, Bric-a-Brac, Cakes and Preserves, Christmas Gifts. Supporting local and national charities For information please call 01234 822005
BEdFORd NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION 7.30pm Tuesday October 18th Addison Centre – Kempston Speaker – Nancy Gregory on ‘Scholars, Spectres and Surprises’ Nancy is always a favourite. Cost - £2.50 for members and more if you are a guest. 2.30pm Tuesday, 15th November Speaker – Professor Anthony Slinn on ‘Vincent Van Gogh’ The professor is a highly recommended speaker. For more information ring Betty Thomas on 01480 860 421 You will receive a warm welcome if you attend. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
––––––––––––––––––––––––
BRITISH REd CROSS BEdFORdSHIRE, Saturday 19th November 10.30am – 4pm, Entry Fee £4 The programme will include demonstrations, tastings, and book signings. Live performances by local school choirs. Stalls will be selling superb, quality items and many handmade gifts and products. Homemade cakes and refreshments available, raffle, tombola and much more. The Great Hall, Bedford Boys School, Burnaby Road, off De Parys Ave., Bedford, MK40 2TU. Parking/disabled parking available.
CHRISTMAS FAIR
NCT NORTH BEdS
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Top quality baby and children’s clothes and equipment at bargain prices
NEARLY NEW SALE
Saturday 8th October 2016 12 noon – 1:30pm (11.30am for NCT Members) £1 admission fee Bedford Athletic Stadium, Barker Lane, Bedford, MK41 9SB
–––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016 — 37
NEW LOOK – NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED
Daley’s Bedford Road, Kempston SATURDAY 8th OCTOBER
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Mon-Thurs 11.30am–12midnight, Fri-Sat 11.30am-1am, Sunday 12noon-12midnight
38 — KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
OCTOBER IN KEMPSTON LIBRARY
Tuesday 25th October, 11:30am – 4pm REGULAR WEEKLY EVENTS Pasta Skeletons Mondays 2:15pm Pre-School Story Time Wednesday 26th October Mondays 3:30-5:30pm Chalk Halloween Colouring Club Special Lego Club Tuesdays 11am Thursday 27th October, 10am – 4pm Rhyme Time Paper Pumpkins Tuesdays 2pm Friday 28th October, 2-5pm Wiggles and Jiggles Baby Group Spooky Spiders Tuesdays 3:30pm Homework Centre Saturday 29th October, 10am – 3:30pm Wednesdays 2:30pm Scarecrow Faces Family Colouring Club Monday 31st October, 10am – 4pm Thursdays 11am Bouncy Bats Wiggles and Jiggles Baby Group Thursdays 2pm Well done to everyone who achieved Knit and Natter success in the Big Friendly Read! It was a Thursdays 3:30pm great year at Kempston Library and Homework Centre whether you achieved your certificate, Fridays 3:30-5:30pm glasses or medal you should be very Lego Club proud! Saturdays 10:30am – 3:30pm Sessions for basic computer help. Need Saturday Kids Club help with your tablet? Book a one to one SPECIAL EVENTS IN OCTOBER session now! Monday 3rd October, 4:30pm Chatterbooks Reading Group for 8-12 Housebound Library Link and Mobile year olds. Library services also available. Friday 7th October, 4pm New Rebranded Homework Centre for Creative Writing Group for Adults. Middle and Upper School students, every Wednesday 19th October, 2:30pm Tuesday and Thursday term time, 3:30Adult Craft Club. Please note, this 5:30pm. session was originally advertised as 12th October, but now is 19th. Download the Bedfordshire Library App OCTOBER HALF TERM EVENTS from the Apple and Play Store now! Saturday 22nd October, 10am – 3:30pm Make a Friendly Ghost For further details on all the Library events Monday 24th October, 10am – 4pm and services, visit the virtual library via Dangly Crows www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries
The Rise, Fall and Rise Again of the Cardington Airships
An illustrated talk by Bedford Town Guide and local historian David Fowler
8pm Wednesday November 23, 2016 The Church of the Transfiguration Church Hall Bedford Road, Kempston MK42 8DW Entrance £5 on the door For more information call: 07894 935952
PROMOTeD By: KeMPSTOn CAMeRA CLuB
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
KEMPSTON CALLING OCTOBER 2016 — 39
Yes we’re t i g n i o d al l again !
Bonfire Night at the Half Moon, Kempston
Saturday 5th November Bonfire will be lit at 7pm – Fireworks at 7.30pm All welcome – Food served at 7pm – Donations appreciated No charge for entry but there will be a collection in aid of the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal – so give generously!