SEPTEMBER 2021
AHOY! AT MILL
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sport See page 15 for Rovers’ news and the Rugby Club’s virtual pentathlon
£20K TARGET FOR GUYS IN A SPRINT FINISH
Mayor Carl Meader supporting Richard’s fund raising for Guys Hospital.
WORK will start on a waterside landing bay on the River Great Ouse at Kempston in October.
The nearby Kempston Mill Bridge, owned by Bedford Borough council, which has been closed for repairs should be open later in the year, which will please local walkers. This landing stage news has been welcomed by the Bedford and Milton Keynes Waterway Trust, whose volunteers run the John Bunyan Boat (pictured at the site). however, the landing stage will not mean the John Bunyan Boat will be making pick-ups at Kempston straight away. That will have to wait until the next wave – when Kempston Mill Bridge has been raised to allow the large boat to pass
by Jane Bird
safely into the wider section of the river beyond, and circle for the return journey. The raising of the bridge will depend on a council bid for ‘levelling up’ funds to which the Waterway Trust has pledged £135,000. currently the John Bunyan Bridge has to turn slightly downstream in order to manoeuvre safely. Said Julian armitage of the Waterway Trust: “We are aware that any building work causes some distruption, but we are working with contractors to ensure this is kept to a minimum.” The John Bunyan Boat runs river trips regularly which depart from Sovereign’s Quay near the Riverside restaurants and Star Rowing club, and/or the Priory Marina off Barker’s Lane, Bedford. These do include Sunday trips to Kempston with the next one being on September 19. https://www.bmkwaterway.org/
Photograpy: Alan Mayo
The long-awaited project to construct the landing stage will enable private river boats and cruisers to moor up near Kempston Mill, thus allowing people to step ashore and look around the local area and perhaps visit the King William iV pub?
RichaRd hart is on a mission to raise £20,000. We’ll let Richard tell his own story: “Over The last two and a half years i have been trying to raise £20,000 for the Guys and St Thomas hospital Trust in London in recognition of the fantastic work they do in caring for my daughter Emily.
Continued on page 3
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SEPTEMBER 2021 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
Founder of Bedford Hospital Charity passes Brian Woodrow OBE DL June 12, 1938 July 16, 2021
a WELL-KnOWn figure in Bedford Brian Woodrow died in his sleep on Friday, July 16, whilst on holiday with all his family in norfolk. Brian was lured to the Bedford area when he accepted a role working for Texas instruments in 1968 and following a successful career in recruitment and advertising, including 25 years commuting to London, he retired in 1988. Brian was an active member of the Bedford community and following his retirement became deeply involved in many local organisations and charities. Brian leaves a huge legacy as he worked tirelessly for the community of Bedford being involved with around 15 different charities including The Bedford hospital charity, hospice at home, country days, Swaziland Schools Project, St Paul’s church, Bedford Sports Foundation and the Sharnbrook Mill Theatre to name but a few. his most significant achievement was establishing and running Bedford hospital charity that over his leadership raised in excess of £10m for the hospital and helped create the Primrose cancer centre. however, he was also central to the creation of the Bedford Sports and hockey
centre in Queens Park, the restoration of St Paul’s church, the setting-up of country days. his enthusiasm, hard work, boundless energy and his ability to extract charitable money from people of Bedfordshire and beyond will be greatly missed. Brian was high Sheriff of Bedfordshire in 1995, was awarded his OBE for services to the community in Bedford in 2003 and latterly was a deputy Lieutenant of Bedfordshire. Beloved husband of Sally, much loved father of James, nicholas and Jeremy and adored grandpa of Laura, harry, Emma, Tom, Jeremy, annie, Jake and William. he will be greatly missed. a funeral was held at St Paul’s church, Bedford, on Thursday, august 5.
Shiny new gateway to town Caribbean delight
an upgrade to the look of cauldwell Street, a gateway to the town centre, is nearing completion with the final cladding panel laid on the centre of Modern construction (cMc) building at Bedford college. doing the honours on Wednesday, august 11, was the chief Executive of The Bedford college Group ian Pryce cBE, neil hart of SEMLEP and Vanessa connolly of the connolly Foundation. The £4.3 Million building has been made possible by funding via SEMLEP of £2.9 Million. in addition £750,000 was donated by the connolly Foundation towards the very latest construction equipment inside the building. The exterior of the cMc complements the look of the Brundtland
Building on cauldwell Street, itself a pioneering example of eco-retro fitting. The stylish silver and grey colour scheme is highlighted across the cauldwell Street/Riverside campus which blends one of the very oldest buildings in Bedford* with the latest in modern, green construction techniques. The finale will be the external refurbishment of the 1950s Tower Block so it blends in the with riverside skyline. College House on the corner of Cauldwell Street and St Mary’s is said to be the oldest brick-built building in Bedford. Its style was replicated in the design of the new Stansfeld Building which forms part of the Eastern frontage of the college campus.
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iT LOOKS like Bedford could well be the home of one the best caribbean restaurants in the UK, as Jemz caribbean located in ampthill Road scoops yet another prestigious award. The restaurant has been in operation now for six years run by Patrick and Sandra harris and already have accumulated a total of three awards to their name. Back in 2019 the restaurant claimed the The Best World cuisine award at the Food awards England 2019 and now they have just claimed The corporate Livewire Prestige awards. This organisation recognises small and medium-sized businesses that have proven to be the best in their market over the past 12 months. all shortlisted companies put forward in the prestige awards are asked to support their nomination with evidence of their work, positive feedback from their clients, information on previous accreditation and recognition as well as highlighting the most outstanding parts of their businesses. The organisation is nationwide and company protocol is to invite nominees to participate in the awards ceremony which was held at Woking in Surrey.
WiTh furlough ending in the autumn many people are wanting to make career changes to secure their futures. There is a demand for engineering employees across a range of industries from manufacturing to construction. in education, those who have worked in the ‘real world’ and can bring that expertise to a teaching role, are greatly valued. Both career paths require degree-level qualifications. “The good news is these can
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Jemz was nominated anonymously along side other national nominees, they were later informed that following intense scrutiny they had been voted caribbean restaurant of the year 2020/2021 for London and the South East region. The award was collected by Patrick and Sandra harris and Eunessa at the prestigious awards ceremony as pictured. We asked both Patrick and Sandra for the hidden secret to winning all these awards. “We guess the secret of our success at Jemz is being customer focussed and good old caribbean home-cooking. We have no plans to branch out as yet as we are still establishing ourselves and just concentrating on putting caribbean food in the world’s cuisine market. “We are pleased to receive this award and this should give other caribbean restaurants confidence and encouragement that we are being recognised.” The restaurant provides a wide variety of caribbean food all cooked fresh on site, they can also cater for a wide variety of events. Jemz is certainly a customer friendly restaurant delivering the real flavour of the caribbean to the local community.
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be accessed via courses which can fit around the ‘day job’,” said charlie Whewell head of higher Education and Partnerships, of The Bedford college Group. “Many learners find that our Part-time courses (from one day a week) and even Full-time (from two days a week) can be flexible enough, to fit around life and work. This means the can complete degree-level courses whilst holding down the job that pays the bills, or while managing family commitments.”
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£20K TARGET FOR GUYS IN A SPRINT FINISH Continued from page 1
“She was born with Kidney failure and at the age of seven needed a kidney transplant. “Thankfully she was able to have one of mine and under the Trust’s excellent care the kidney has lasted over 20 years. “This has enabled Emily to complete her schooling at hastingsbury School in Kempston, go to Bedford college to study child care, and then go on to qualify as a children’s nurse. “She is now working at Great Ormond Street hospital as a qualified nurse. “Emily has done incredibly well against the odds and to recognise the 20th anniversary of the transplant in 2020 we set out to raise the £20,000. “The Bedfordshire charitable Trust have been incredibly generous to us and i cannot tell you what the support of my employers, The Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, has meant to me they; they have been incredible. “now we are up to over £17,300, the end is in sight.
“On October 3, i shall be running the London Marathon with the aim of trying to smash the target, so please, if you can, sponsor me to do that, just go my Just Giving page and donate what you can. “Unfortunately in its 21st year Emily’s kidney is failing and she needs another transplant. “Sadly i have given her my spare and can do no more than be a caring parent. “The Trust are currently considering other family members as possible donors. “We are trying to keep positive and in the meantime we keep fundraising. “i had hoped to reach the target earlier but with covid and all the restrictions many of our activities have had to be cancelled. “Guys and St Thomas’ hospitals maybe in London yet they are one of the centres of excellence that give the treatment that many of the local hospitals cannot give. “Please help me on my final sprint finish and donate at:” www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/transplant2020
KCC EDITION
KEMPSTON CALLING SEPTEMBER 2021
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Mayor opens pre-school summer play area
ThE Mayor of Kempston, cllr carl Meader was welcomed by Staff and Rev Michael Giles on a visit to the Bunyan Pre-school on Thursday July 24 to officially open the new Summer Play area. The visit had been delayed due to the lockdown restrictions imposed since he had last visited in 2019 to open the refurbished indoor activity areas. The area had been re-designed with additional educational and play equipment, new floor covering and general colourful decoration. during the time spent at the home of the pre-school (Kempston West Methodist church) carl Meader had the chance to talk to the staff and children and see what a happy group they are. The Rev Michael Giles emphasised the vital community work of the Pre-School and the key role that members play in working with the staff. The Pre-School had managed to keep open for most of the lockdown complying with the needs of the vulnerable children and those of families of frontline workers. With constant risk assessments and strict adherence to the government guidelines, the safety of all concerned
was at the forefront of the both the management and staff. as the situation improved it was good to see a gradual return of all the children ending the summer term with a full complement. it has been recognised nationally how important the days and weeks spent in pre-schools did uplift and encourage the children at this difficult time and that with well qualified staff giving an inspired, diverse and disciplined approach, those children moving onto main stream school have a sound ground-
ing in educational learning. Thirteen of the children move on to school this year but the preschool already has younger children in line to fill those places. as the Manager, Emma copperwheat stated, ‘We had an amazing year where staff have been extremely busy and challenged as never before’. Barbara, the assistant Manager had completed her level 5 in child care and leadership and a newer member of staff, daniel had also completed his level 2 in child care.
The staff have expanded their use of technology with a new website and parents having a daily visual up-date of the children’s activities. Three new members had joined the Pre-School Management committee who oversee the staffing, finance and the general running of the Pre-School where necessary ensuring the standards set under Government, Ofsted and charity commission guidelines are complied with. it is with sadness that the Pre-School say goodbye to the chairperson, nina Wainwright who has done a tremendous job of liaising with staff, local authority and committee members over the past two years and especially during the pandemic. her work was much appreciated. Emma said that the staff are looking forward to seeing those children who were continuing, to saying hello to those joining in September and to making sure that everyone knows that a warm welcome is there for any new families interested in the Pre-School. Please telephone 07944 360 369 for further information.
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SEPTEMBER 2021 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
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Would YOU buy it? White rhino calf as been
BOSSES at one of the town’s charity shops is urging the Borough Council to reopen the tidy tip to ‘walk-ins’. Every morning the staff at charity shops across the town are faced with piles of unwanted items. Many of these pieces are unsaleable and are only fit the tip. The situation is getting so bad that council staff are having to come and clear the pavements of bags of what is basically rubbish. Charity shops are convinced that if the tidy tip was open subject to the arrangements prior to the pandemic, people wouldn’t be dumping their unwanted items on their door steps. Managers at the shops are asking residents only to donate goods that have some resale value and not use the shops as an easy way of getting rid of their rubbish. A guiding principle should be “would YOU buy it?”
born at Whipsnade Zoo
ThE female calf, named nandi by zookeepers, which means ‘sweet one’ in Zulu, was born at 4am on 21 august at the conservation Zoo, and is a welcome addition to the European Endangered species breeding programme. She joins her mum Tuli and dad Sizzle within the Zoo’s herd (also known as a “crash”) of eight Southern white rhinos. Following a 16-month pregnancy, keepers at the UK’s largest Zoo had been using stool samples from 14-year-old rhino mum, Tuli, to monitor her hormone levels, and knew that she was within a couple of days of giving birth. They were delighted when, before dawn on Saturday, she gave birth to a healthy, female calf in an indoor part of the enclosure that had been reserved for her use. Southern white rhinos are the world’s second largest land mammal. according to the iUcn Red List for Threatened Species, there are approximately 10,000 Southern white rhinos left in the wild, and their numbers are decreasing due to poaching, habitat loss, introduction of invasive species and climate change. Team leader Mark holden said: “We are overjoyed to be welcoming such a precious addition to our ‘crash’ of Southern white rhinos at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. “Southern white rhinos are
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born with over-sized, rubbery feet, which they have to ‘grow into’, so nandi is understandably wobbly when she walks. Rhino calves spend most of their first week or two resting and drinking milk, but over the next few weeks she’ll grow, and as she does, she’ll get more playful, and confident in
exploring her huge enclosure here. “Tuli is very protective right now, so we’re letting them rest away from the group and out of sight of visitors, but in a few days they’ll both start to feel more confident about nandi venturing out and getting to know the rest of the herd.”
New smart bike shelter opened ThE new smart bike unit on horne Lane has been officially opened, with a ribbon cutting by Mayor dave hodgson. This new unit is in the same location as the old bike racks by harpur Square, enhancing these
well-used facilities. This is the UK’s first ever cycle hub to feature an app-based locking system that can be managed from your smartphone or tablet. The unit uses secure encrypted Bluetooth and ‘near Field communications’
to communicate between your phone and the shelter, you do not need internet access. Over 250 people have already signed up to use the unit, and since it opened for use earlier this summer it has already been used over 300 times. To access the shelter, cyclists just need to email: Sustainable. Transport@bedford.gov.uk with their full name, address in Bedford Borough and phone number. They will then receive details on how to access the unit and will need to download the ‘Okey Access’ app on their smart phone.
Mayor dave hodgson said: “it was great to officially open this new bike unit. Safer cycle parking is a priority for cyclists and this new unit is a real asset to our town centre. cyclists will still need to lock their bikes in the shelter, but this added security will help to keep bikes safer. “This is just one in a number of different projects across our town centre; with the high Street works to reduce traffic in the town, and the Town deal and heritage action Zone bringing additional investment and improvements.” This shelter is being funded as part of the Government’s £1m Town deal accelerator Fund. One of the other projects is signing of 27 cycle routes into the town centre and a circular route around the town to encourage more people to cycle.
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Faces of Kempston
Here at Kempston Calling we are conscious that not all our readers log on to Facebook regularly (or any other social media for that matter). But there is no doubt there are interesting stories and snippets shared on those ‘channels’ which you would like to know about. So each month we are going to pick the best of them and share them in print with the name of
the FB group which you can then try and follow, or ask the grandchildren to show you on their phone.
I live/used to live in Kempston: is promoting the Over 50s Club which meets at Kempston East Methodist Church Hall off Foster Road at 2pm on the first Thursday of each month. Guest speakers, tea and coffee, outings.
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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, Mrs Sue Bottoms 17 Willow Springs, Cranfield, Bedford MK43 0DS 01234 751300 sue.x999@btinternet.com http://kempstonrural.bedsparishes.gov.uk
KEMPSTON CALLING SEPTEMBER 2021
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Scouting service recognised
KC CHANGE
Annual membership £10 and £2 per month. 2nd September “Butler to royalty” William French. 7th October Women in Aviation Marilyn Wood. 4th November Being at High Sheriff of Beds, Colin Osborne.
Spotted in Kempston: Local councillors and MP Mohammad Yasin where out litter picking around King William Road and High Street. New manager announced of Kempston Rovers: Scott Dash. Assistant Mark Royal. New shirts sponsored by A & J Carpentry and Kingsley Garage. Cinnamon Kempston: Indian takeaway near the Mulberry Bush off Orchard Street is offering discounts for deliveries. AFC Kempston Town: Ball is October 2nd at Mecure Hotel (was the Radisson, Moat House, County Hotel depending on your age).
In August Tina Miller who lives in Kempston received a 30 Years of Service Award. Group Leader of 101st Kempston Scout group, Colin Danobrega, presented Tina with the award on behalf of Bear Grylls the Chief Scout. During her 30 years Tina has worked with the Beaver section of 6-8 year olds and is now an Assistant Cub Scout Leader with 8-10.5 year Cubs.
Joanne Bush from the 101st Scout Group Kempston receives her Five Year Service Award as an Assistant Scout Leader keeping Scouting in the family pictured with her mother Ann Bush who has been a leader with the group for 36 years. Her father Darryl has been a Scout Leader for 28 years. Jo joined Scouts in 2008 after attending Essex Jamboree with her father.
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SEPTEMBER 2021 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
Walk to Remember – Bedford Sign up to Walk to Remember – Bedford and walk 5k to celebrate the memory of your loved one this October. Get together with family and friends to remember someone special, raise funds and help Sue Ryder fill someone’s last days with love. Join hundreds of supporters at Walk to Remember – Bedford on Sunday October 10, 2021. Walk to Remember – Bedford, kindly sponsored by M&dh insurance Services Ltd, will start at Everards Meadow. The 5k route will lead you along the beautiful Bedford Embankment and through Russell Park. You will have the opportunity to place a dedication en route in memory of loved ones. crossing the finishing line, you will be rewarded with a well-deserved medal and the knowledge that you’ve done something amazing to remember those close to you.
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Crime Commissioner misses meeting discussing his plan!
The funds raised will help Sue Ryder to support people through the most difficult times of their lives. Whether that’s a terminal illness or a bereavement, with your support we can be there when it matters. Sign up now at: sueryder.org/walkbedford or contact the Sue Ryder St John’s hospice Fundraising Team via email: stjohnsfund raising@sueryder.org or call 01767 642424. Sign up – standard tickets are: adult £12, child £7. children under 5 go free. Family tickets (2 adults, 2 children) are £30, and a team of 6 ticket is £60. Or if you can’t make this date, organise your own Walk to Remember with family and friends any day in October. Simply register, then choose how far you Walk to Remember – 5k, 10k, or pick your own distance. decide your start and finish line and make it your Walk to Remember with a route that means something to you.
BEdFORdShiRE Police and crime commissioner Festus akinbusoye (pictured right) has apologised for failing to turn up for a meeting to discuss his police and crime plan. The county’s police and crime panel had to rearrange its question and answer session with the Pcc after his no show for a meeting in august. an extraordinary panel meeting was held on Thursday, august 19, at which he “shared his deep regrets about the misunderstanding last week, which i take full responsibility for as Pcc.”
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he told the panel: “i won’t point any fingers at anyone or any group of people. “The buck stops with me. i should have understood better and i’m glad to be here anyway.” Liberal democrat Goldington councillor Tim caswell thanked the Pcc for his “gracious apology” to the panel, saying: “That’s restored a lot of goodwill.” There are seven priority areas in the Pcc’s police and crime plan for the next three years. These are: l investment in communitybased and community-led policing for urban and rural areas; l recruitment and retention of police officers; l tackling the causes of crime and breaking the cycle of reoffending; l placing residents and victims at the centre of policing priorities; l multi-agency and transparent approach to community safety and crime reduction; l transparency and open communication; l and national contributions and engaging with the strategic performance review. Referring to rape convictions being “notoriously low”, councillor caswell asked the Pcc for his views about “current conviction rates” and what can be done to improve them. Mr akinbusoye replied: “My clear view about where they are is nowhere near good enough. it’s shocking. “having met and having known women who’ve been raped, and seen some since i’ve been in this role, to hear what they’ve been through is heartbreaking. “i’m absolutely committed to ensuring we’ve the resources so that the victims of this horrific crime get every support they need immediately. “From the instance they report the incident to the way they’re treated by our officers is the way it should be. also that the way we convict these people (rapists) and lock them away is done properly.
l l l l
by Euan Duncan – Local Democracy Reporter
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“The biggest concern i have about this now is over the serious issue of the backlogs in our courts. “covid hasn’t helped that at all,” he explained. “We’ve those victims who you need to be part of an investigation. “The longer an investigation goes and the longer the delays, the drop out rate is just astonishing. So we’re now working on the case of having nightingale courts being opened up. “i’m due to have a discussion with the courts service to see what we can do to expedite this. But the backlog is something which gives me a huge cause for concern at the moment.” councillor caswell added: “Bedford has no court and people accused of crimes and very vulnerable witnesses often can’t get to Luton.” The Pcc said: “We’re doing some work at the moment through one of the victim support services to see what more can be done to educate witnesses or victims about the several options available to them when they go to court. “There are procedures in place now where they can give a statement, so they can give evidence remotely and where they can give their witness statement pre-recorded. “i’m not sure those options are being made clear to victims early enough to the point where they say: ‘i don’t want to face that guy in court’. “in fact there are ways around that without jeopardising the prosecution.”
Well dressed burglar gets jail
a BURGLaR, who entered a highend clothing store in Bedford by digging through a wall and was arrested wearing a coat he took, has been jailed for 32 months. Richard West, 46, of Shakespeare Road, Bedford, who was found guilty of one count of burglary and one count of attempting to commit burglary, was sentenced at Luton crown court on Friday, august 6, 2021. ––––––––––––––––
N
Caught by the seat of his pants
a BURGLaR who was caught when fibres from his jeans were found on a garden gate has been jailed for almost five years. Peter Smith, 38, of Prebend Street, Bedford, was jailed over two burglaries in Kempston in august last year. Police officers, led by the victim’s description of the burglar, found Smith in chantry Road, Kempston and when they tried to speak to him, he ran off but was subsequently arrested.
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KEMPSTON CALLING SEPTEMBER 2021
KCC EDITION
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190K comments submitted for East West Rail consultation
THE East West Railway Company (EWR Co) has reported, that its recent 10 week consultation received more than 9,800 responses, made up of (over) 190,000 individual comments that are now each being analysed.
Responses to the East West Rail project’s second non-statutory public consultation were submitted by a wide range of people across the route, including members of the public, local authorities, businesses, parish councils, MPs and local community groups. The team is now working through the views and information provided, which will inform the next stage of design work for the new rail line, with a focus on creating a positive legacy for local communities and the environment. The public consultation covered two key themes: 1. Customer experience and railway operations. 2. Infrastructure proposals – including five route alignments for the section of East West Rail between Bedford and Cambridge, stations and level
crossings along the whole East West Rail route including Oxford station, Bicester London Road level crossing, Bletchley and the Marston Vale Line as well as Bedford station. With infrastructure proposals covering such a variety of concepts and options, and an intense period of engagement with local communities, responses came in covering a multitude of topics and themes. analysis is being carried out by categorising responses for review by the relevant EWR co technical teams to make sure every comment counts.
The consultation itself used innovations such as virtual consultation rooms, easy explainer videos, factsheets and online chat sessions on top of sending traditional printed material to 270,000 addresses and using advertising to reach out to as many people in local communities as possible. Simon Blanchflower cBE, chief Executive of East West Railway company, said: “The number of responses we’ve received, the breadth of information and
270,000 ITEMS DELIVERED
level of detail they contain demonstrates the value of consulting with local people at an early stage, and the huge level of public interest in East West Rail. “Our team of experts at EWR co are now examining every comment and we will report back to communities on what we have been able to do as a result of the information people shared with us. The whole team here appreciates the thought and expertise displayed in the responses which were provided. “at the same time, we will continue to reach out to local communities and their representatives, so we can carry on talking without the formality of a full consultation. at the end of last month, i was invited to north East Bedfordshire by Richard Fuller MP to meet with him and representatives from the local community – my first such in-person meeting since covid restrictions were lifted. it was great to be out on the route and i plan to have other similar meetings in the weeks to come.” Throughout the consultation EWR co held more than 100 online meetings with interested organisations, local authorities
and residents. during the consultation there were 51,000 visitors to eastwestrail.co.uk with 199,000 page views. Some 75,000 documents were downloaded from the website including the consultation document, the technical report and several topic papers and factsheets – and 270,000 consultation summary documents were posted to residents and businesses along the East West Rail route.
l 9,800+ responses to the public consultation l 190,000+ individual comments being analysed l 270,000 consultation summaries posted to residents and businesses along the East West Rail route l 75,000 documents downloaded from the East West Rail website l 51,000 visitors to eastwestrail.co.uk and 199,000 page views l 4,800 visits to our virtual consultation rooms l 3,500+ direct emails with people who asked questions during the consultation
CONSULTATION IN NUMBERS
l 400+ pieces of media coverage about the consultation l 300+ advertisements in media along the route l 64 online meetings with local MPs, councillors and parishes l 32 online meetings with stakeholders including industry and business groups l 18 online public webinars l 16 live chat events The responses to the second non-statutory consultation, alongside ongoing technical, financial and environmental studies, will be used to help shape the next stages of design. EWR co will publish a report summarising the consultation feedback as well as information on how the feedback has been used to inform plans for the railway. People will then have further opportunities to comment on the proposals at the statutory consultation which is planned for 2022 following which EWR co expects to submit a formal application for a development consent Order to the Secretary of State for permission to construct and operate the railway.
KEMPSTON TOWN COUNCIL KNOW YOUR TOWN COUNCILLOR Kempston North
Sam Blacklaws
Kempston Central and East
c/o 104 Bedford Road, Kempston MK42 8BG sgblacklaws@gmail.com 07513 705791
Ali Akbor
Sue Oliver
Kay Burley
4 Loveridge Avenue, Kempston MK42 8SD sue.oliver@bedford.gov.uk 303029
7 Westdale Walk, Kempston MK42 8NX gordoncolling@btinternet.com 843805
Kempston South
Fiorentino Manocchio
Shaun Bowman 5 Harrier Way, Kempston MK42 7TY shaun-bowman@virginmedia.com 07905 780603
Carl Meader 39 Highfield Road, Kempston MK42 7JH carl.meader@bedford.gov.uk 857621 or 07557 800156 Kempston West
Steve Conway c/o 104 Bedford Road, Kempston MK42 8BG steve@steveconway.net 07592 483336
Terri Conway c/o 104 Bedford Road, Kempston MK42 8BG terri@steveconway.net 07592 483336
c/o 104 Bedford Road, Kempston MK42 8BG aakbor@hotmail.com
32 Hartwell Drive, Kempston MK42 8UY fiore.manocchio@gmail.com 07818 426266
Mohammed Masud 46 Henderson Way, Kempston MK42 8NP cllrmasud@bedford.gov.uk 07974 276944
Mohammed Nawaz c/o 104 Bedford Road, Kempston MK42 8BG mn4bedford@gmail.com 07786 160607
Things have been fairly quiet during August as there was no meeting of the Kempston Town Council during this time. There was however a meeting of the Planning Committee to express opinions to the Brorough Council on individual applications in the Kempston area. Many people may think that as the final decision is made by the planning authority, there is little point in Kempston bothering. Although the decisions of Kempston are not always upheld their views are always taken into consideration – so it is worth it! Even though it has been quiet as far as meetings are involved individual councillors have been kept busy with residents’ concerns and problems. So if you think that we may be able to help – please contact us!
Sad news!
Ross Purves c/o 104 Bedford Road, Kempston MK42 8BG rmpkempston@gmail.com 07732 969871 MAYOR AND DEPUTY: Cllrs Meader and Blacklaws
As well as his long service with the sports organisation he was very active as a committee member of the Guru Gobind Singh Gurdwara in Kempston. He will clearly be missed by very many people but none more than his wife Rajwinder and their son and daughter and their families. Our thoughts are with them all. The Funeral was on 27th August. Prayers and last respects took place at the Kempston Gurdwara.
No meetings but still kept busy
Kempston Town Councillors were very sad to learn about the sudden death of Balbir Atwal who was previously a Town Councillor. He will have been known to many in Kempston, especially as he served as Mayor of Kempston in 2006/7.
Litter-pick A local litter-pick has been organised in Kempston Central and East ward on 11th September at 10.30 – 11.30am meeting point outside Sainsbury’s Kempston. Contact Clllr Mohammed Nawaz 07786 160607 for further details. Balbir died of a heart attack at the age of 62 years in the Post Office that he ran at Goldington Road. He will be remembered with respect for his dignity and charm. He always had a warm and friendly smile for everyone. He never shied away from commitment in whatever he did. Balbir served as the chairman of the Shaheedi Sports Council for more than 15 years. Many of us have enjoyed the sports event that used to be held in Queen’s Park but more recently in Kempston.
Tuesday September 14 6.30pm Planning 7.30pm Town Council
FUTURE MEETINGS
All future meetings will be held in Centenary Hall until further notice
104 Bedford Road, Kempston, Bedford, MK42 8BG Tel: 01234 851005 www.kempston-tc.gov.uk Email: clerk@kempston-tc.gov.uk Office hours: 10am to 3pm Monday to Friday
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SEPTEMBER 2021 KEMPSTON CALLING
TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
KCC EDITION
Remembering Green End, people would take to a footpath across the field called ‘Ramsey’ on the west of home Road. This was in the hopes that the hounds would disturb a fox, who might be in a field of brussels or such like along the approach road. ‘Ramsey’ is an extremely large field and i am told that many years ago a small road existed towards its centre and a number of houses were located there. i must admit that i have never seen any evidence of this. in a way the field is unique – it is the only field in the locality, now producing a massive crop of yellow buttercups during the summer.
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GERALD WILES had lived in Kempston since he was six months old and at the age of 95 he authored this piece exclusively for the readers of Kempston Calling. He had witnessed many a change during his life time and has put into writing some of his memories. We will be featuring these over the next few issues. We start with his recollections of Kempston Green End — first published in March 2010.
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n travelling through Green End recently, i realised that i had passed through the hamlet without seeing one individual, only a row of empty parked cars. it then occurred to me that if i had seen anybody i should not have recognised them, as i did not know anyone who lived in the locality. how different to the 1920s period of years when i knew everybody and everybody would know me. it was a very close community and this is an attempt to describe it. For an easy start i will commence at Gibraltar corner, at the end of home Road. Only one home existed near here, that of the farmhouse occupied by Tom Owen and family, and they were considered to be more in Wootton than in Kempston. i believe there used to be a cottage nearby named ‘Gibraltar’ (hence the name of the corner.) i wonder if there was any connection with ‘Jerusalem’ at Kempston hardwick. in the centre of the corner was a triangle of grass with a large wooden signpost with four arms pointing to Kempston, Wood End, Wootton and Green End. in the early twenties this was a regular meeting place, on Boxing day, for the Oakley hunt , and most of the community was in attendance. The hounds were escorted by two ‘whippers-in’ on horseback, all the way from Oakley house, no lorries were available in those days. after an exchange of pleasantries and drinks, the hunt would move towards Kempston Wood at Wood End, but a number of Green End
amsey was a special place for the local children as the church Sunday School held its party here every September. (Sunday School attendances always increased during august and early September). Mr harter at Bury Farm always provided a horse and cart to transport equipment and goodies on Friday evening and Saturday morning, ready for games and festivities in the afternoon and evening. Sprinting races, three-legged races, sack races etc. would be held for everyone. This was followed by tea and cakes. Mr Benfield, the Sunday School superintendent, always anchored small toy boats from branches overhanging one of the three ponds and then allowed the older boys to shoot at them using his very light air-rifle. This was alway carried out under strict supervision, but i doubt if permission would be given nowadays. One of the large ponds was surrounded by heaps of brambles and bushes forming a rabbit warren. This was always of great interest as the wild rabbits were unusual as they were a mixture of grey, black and white. it appears that a lady, named Mrs Breed, had purchased two ‘dutch’ rabbits from Peacock’s market in Bedford and after travelling to Gibraltar corner on the Wootton bus, she walked across Ramsey towards her home in West End. Unfortunately she dropped her cage and the rabbits disappeared into the warren. at the far end of Ramsey there used to be two cottages, which i now believe have been converted into one. in the furthest cottage lived a Mr Wiles (no relation) and his family who worked for the railway company maintaining the railway line. They eventually moved to Bedford and it was then occupied by Mr and Mrs Milton. he worked at London Brick company and prior to her marriage Mrs Milton was a schoolteacher at Bedford Road Junior School. next door lived Mr and Mrs Robert hebbes, he was head gardener and general factotum for Mrs newland at Kempston house. it must be realised that in those days there was a complete lack of sewerage, electricity, gas or running water. Every evening, Mr hebbes could be seen walking towards the large pond at the front of Kempston house with a wooden yoke across his shoulders and two empty buckets hanging from chains. There were steps at the edge of the pond so it was easy for him to fill the buckets and return home. What they used for drinking water, i have no idea, but later in the evening he would walk to the Shoulder of Mutton, have one drink and then return home with several bottles carried in a plaited bucket. These may have been for the benefit of the occupants at Kempston house, but i am not sure. The occupant of Kempston house was Mrs newland, the widow of one of the Brewers family. She had several servants living in the house and on
Kempston House.
occasions could be seen in an open coach, complete with coachman and an accompanying maid. Prior to the war it was expected that local men would doff their caps, and the women bow their heads when meeting her, and children did their best to do likewise. She was always referred to as Lady newland, but later and after the war, this practice seemed suddenly to cease, and any idea of her nobility ceased. in the coachhouse near the corner of home Road lived Joseph cowley and his wife. The living room window faced the road and a semi-circular iron bar and posts made it secure. in this window sat Mrs cowley busily working at her lace-making pillow, but always on the look-out for passers by. next to the house was a low-branched chestnut tree which attracted children at ‘conker’ time but any such approach would be accompanied by a loud screech of “Joe. The kids are at the conkers”. Out would rush Joe waving his horsewhip belligerently, but it was all show as he never actually used it! The grounds of Kempston house and the coachhouse were surrounded by a considerable sized spinney and behind this were two fields known as First and Second dows, containing two ponds and well known as a place for blackberries and mushrooms. To the north of these fields was the old brickyard previously utilised by Samuel Fosters of high Street, Kempston. This ceased working during the early stages of the first World War and was often utilised as a training ground for army recruits. i remember being taken there in a wheelchair by the Green End schoolgirls. clay had been extracted for several years and steep banks, about fifteen feet high surrounded the area. From these banks trainee soldiers were seen practicing sending heliograph morse messages across the field using circular mirrors loosely connected to tripods. in later years the ‘Kiln’ as it was known became a wonderful playground for Green End children. it contained the remains of the old brick ovens, five ponds and two wells, together with overgrown spinneys which had bluebells, primroses and both white and mauve violets in profusion. The previous manager of the brickyard was John Lack from church End and he and his workmen used part of the site as vegetable allotments, which they cultivated during rest periods. consequently, there were still remains of their work, and rhubarb, black and red currants, plus vegetables could still be found
A .
at the approach to Green End proper, two houses were situated on the corner, one occupied by a Mr harris and his wife and the other by a Mr Wooding and his wife and two children. Both of these men worked as gardeners and general labourers, for Mrs newland at Kempston house. (in later years Mr Wooding’s son Lawrence was a casualty whilst serving in the army during the second World War.) at this spot, the corner was always rather wide and i understand that at one stage it was used as a compound for any stray cattle. On the other side of the corner was a square indent in the hedgerows and this used to contain the only well in the vicinity. a wooden roller with a large metal handle could be seen with a small wooden roof. attached to the roller was a chain about twenty feet long which had a bucket permanently attached. On the other side of the corner were two semidetached houses owned by Mr harter of Bury Farm. They always seemed to be of a more modern type than the rest of the local houses. in the first house lived Mr Barker and his wife and son Victor. Mrs Barker was extremely deaf and i was always amazed how she and her son conversed. i think she was very good at lip-reading. i never knew her background but somebody in the family must have been well-to-do considering the type of presents Victor received on his birthday and at christmas, some of which he never appreciated! i remember one instance, when he had a really expensive set of draughtsmans equipment, complete with metal pens, compasses, pencils etc. all in a velvet lined box. i felt rather jealous! They eventually moved to one of the cottages in cemetery Road at the entrance to the
The cemetry lodge.
Bury and an ashpole family took over next. The family next door was headed by Mr Folkes, who worked with Mr Barker for Walter harter and when they moved an ashpole family took their place. From a distance the next house looked rather larger and more imposing, and is still standing on a slight slope surrounded by a large garden with a paddock at the rear. it was occupied by Mr Smart, his wife and daughter and accompanied by his grandson Fred dodd. The daughter subsequently married a Mr dixon, a widower from the London area who had two teenage sons, and they had several more children. The two teenage sons brought new topics of conversation into the community talking of their life in London, and how they were keen supporters of chelsea Football club. Most Greenenders were arsenal fans and had never considered chelsea. The Smart family came into prominence every September when a steam engine complete with threshing tackle arrived in their paddock. This was used for threshing the corn grown by local residents in the nearby allotment field. Great entertainment was had by the local children whilst treading the loose chaff into large sacks and in chasing the rats which ran from the base of the communal straw sacks. it always puzzled me how the various allotment holders knew which was their individual amount of corn being threshed, but i never heard of any arguments taking place. The next building to the Smart homestead was a two storied brick barn built on the roadside. What it contained, i never really knew, but it was used by Samuel Smith who lived with his aunt, a Mrs Stowe in the next house. Mrs Stowe was considered to be a well-to-do lady, as she was able to afford her name to be printed among the upper class in the local residential registry. Sam Smith was a self-employed carpenter, who owned other property in the locality and was an extremely religious person, belonging to a small chapel situated in Margetts Road area of Kempston. On Wednesday evenings during the autumn and winter months he would invite local children to a religious meeting in his home. it was a reasonably brief meeting with every one sitting on benches around the living room. The main attraction was a large cup of milk chocolate drink accompanied by a biscuit or two, always served in a hot mug. Sam eventually married a teacher at church End School named Miss Jones, and i believe they adopted a daughter. i remember on one occasion i visited his workshop and he proudly showed me his woodworking tools. his pride and joy was three large wooden chests, all containing dozens of wood planes and everyone had a different shaped cutting base. With these he could cut every type of window frame and window sill imaginable as well as fancy picture frames. They all looked so immaculate that i did wonder if they had ever been used. next in line comes the local public house, The Shoulder of Mutton, with its landlord albert Barker, his wife and three children, Bertram, harold and
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KCC EDITION
KEMPSTON CALLING SEPTEMBER 2021
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, Kempston Edna. They were a very popular family and the house did a very good trade. Mrs Barker was a very pleasant lady and if by chance you had a penny to spare you could get a sweet from her living room window. She was the proud owner of a gramophone with a very large horn and on an occasional summer’s evening she would open the window and give a recital to any children outside. The barn at the rear of the house was used for many years as a changing room for the Green End Football club who played in the field opposite, by kind permission of Mr harter. The pitch was on a rather steep slope and a close inspection had to be made before each match to clear away any residue from the cattle grazing in the same field. Both of the Barker boys played for the village team, although Bert was a trifle handicapped, by having lost one hand whilst working for the metal working firm of Sandersons in Spring Road, Kempston. he subsequently took over as landlord from his father and it was amazing how capable he was at filling a couple of pints of beer from the barrels in the pub cellar.
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ext to the pub came a row of four thatched cottages and originally the first was named ‘Orin cottage’ and was occupied by a maiden lady whose name i cannot remember. When she left(or died) a Tom dale and his family from Box End moved in. Their daughter later married Bert Barker and their son, who payed football for Green End, married a daughter of the ashpole family named Bertha. next door lived an elderly couple named Bird and their neighbours were Mr and Mrs Wallenger. They had one son who served as a private in the army. When he came home on leave he seemed too spend most of his time in the local. in the fourth house was a Mrs Smith and her daughter, aunt and cousin to Sam Smith. The daughter suffered from a serious nervous disorder and frequently disappeared during the autumn and winter evenings, much to the dismay of the local policeman, who was detailed to find her. My father was a Voluntary Reserve Policeman at that time and he was always called out to search the local spinneys whilst the policeman patrolled the nearby road. She was usually found sitting under a tree stump either in Rushey Ford Road spinney or just
The Shoulder of Mutton.
below the cemetery. i was always told that the next house which stands end onto the road was originally owned by one of the Brewing company but beer was only sold direct from the door. The original tenant was Mrs Roe and her son William, but they emigrated to australia and Sam Smith then bought the property and lived in it after his marriage. he built another house some years later in the garden next to the road and this had a very short life as a village store, before being let to Gwen ashpole who had recently married. On her death it was occupied by a schoolteacher who taught at Bedford Road Senior School. i forget his name but remember he rode a racing bike at great speed. On one occasion on taking the corner too fast near the cemetery he finished up in the ditch which unfortunately was full of very tall stinging nettles. To make matters worse some of his senior pupils were standing on the corner to catch the school bus and were naturally amused.
Ted crowsley and his wife and son lived in the detached house next door. he was a self-employed bricklayer, who occasionally built houses locally. his older brothers Tommy and Tossle lived in the the semi-detached cottages next door, but in the 1930s the latter moved into a council house and Mr and Mrs Spavins and family moved in. Behind these houses was a row of three houses which i believe have now been made into one. in the first house lived Jack ashpole and family. during the spring and summer months Jack spent many weeks away from home touring the countryside with a very large Shire horse visiting numerous farms for breeding purposes. Everywhere he went he had to walk leading the horse, which carried his clothes, bedding and other necessities in a large pack on its back. The horse always looked in an immaculate condition, with highly polished brasses hanging around its collar and reins. his wife was very friendly with my mother and his daughter Gwen used to push me around in my wheelchair. during the first World War Gwen would frequently sleep at our house as company for my mother whilst my father was away serving in the army. i have a wonderful memory of the day when the armistice was signed when they all visited my home to celebrate the occasion. a large sheet was utilised to make a flag with the help of red and blue ribbons previously used on the horse and flown from the bedroom window at the end of a brush handle. Mother played tunes on the organ, Mrs ashpole emptied the coal scuttle and turned it upside down and used it as a drum using the fire poker as a drumstick. Gwen made a great noise with our concertina and a member of the crowsley family produced a tin whistle. The remainder just sang and danced around. next to the ashpoles lived the Wooding family. amos Wooding worked in the machine manufacturing company of Sandersons situated at cow Bridge. They had four children Lesley, Jack, ivy and Ted. ivy was three days older than myself and died only a short while ago, but Jack died in his early twenties from tuberculosis. although he was somewhat older than myself we often roamed the field together either picking flowers, birds nesting or blackberrying. i remember on one occasion whilst climbing the pollarded elm trees near the kiln we found a single young bird in one of the large holes. it was fully feathered but neither of us could recognise it, so Jack insisted on taking it home to show his father, who told us it was a young kestrel hawk. We were told that it would be no use taking back and informed that we would in future have to spend our time trapping mice or catching some of the numerous sparrows that were considered to be a nuisance. This was rather a chore, but after a week everybody was amazed to find it alive and flourishing. Mr Wooding informed some of his workmates of this happening and one Friday evening a gentleman from Goldington, who kept an aviary called to see it. To everybody’s surprise he offered to buy it for five shillings and the offer was quickly accepted. Five shillings was a fortune in those days.
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ext was a tiny cottage with a small living room, a tiny kitchen and one bedroom. it was occupied by Matthew clark and his wife who were the parents of Mrs Wooding. “Mathy’ was an elderly gentleman who was very bent at his waist and his face always seemed to be looking at the ground. he did temporary manual work and during the summer months he helped my father cut the grass and hoe the gravel paths in the cemetery. his eyesight was extremely poor and often whilst hoeing the weeds he would remark: “i cant see the little b . . . . . . s ”. during the winter months he would have casual work with the local farmers cutting the hedges and cleaning ditches and when unemployed he would be working on a large allotment plot nearby. he had one real hobby and that was roses. his house garden was full of standard roses of all colours. he obtained wild rose standard stalks from the hedges and duly budded them the next spring. Some stems would have two or three different coloured roses and he gave me several
Orin cottage today.
lessons on how to graft standard roses. in the early 1990s a change took place in Green End, when eight council houses were built next to the cemetery. My father was told that prior to his arrival it was arranged for the cemetery to be extended towards Vicarage Farm but an objection was raised that it would be too near to the farmhouse and consequently it extended towards Green End. he was therefore rather cynical about these houses being built within a few feet of the extended cemetery. Unfortunately the soil in this locality was solid grey clay which is not very good for solid foundations and the two houses nearest to the cemetery started to crack and collapse. a leaning brick pillar was then built at one end with two iron rods with large metal plates inserted along the whole length. Later on this was considered to be insufficient for safety and an excavation of most of the foundation was made to a considerable depth and a brick arch inserted under the foundations. The houses are still standing however. in those days there was no electricity, gas, sewerage or local government water supplies. Some years before, Mr harter of Bury Farm had extended his water supply to Green End and two taps were available from the roadside, one just north of the Shoulder of Mutton and the other round the corner towards the cemetery. he gave permission the pipeline to be extended to two taps situated in the front gardens of the new houses. incidentally this water supply came from the far side of cardington Village for the use of Kempston Urban and in recent years the entrance to the reservoir known as ‘Greensand’ showed an archway with Kempston Udc’s name on it. as there was no sewerage available a large trench about six feet deep was dug behind the new houses. it was filled with clinkers from the Gasworks and only about eight feet from the back doors. This was the disposal place for all washing up water etc. Some of the new tenants were local families living in very small cottages whilst others came from Bedford and the surrounding villages, and most families quickly absorbed themselves into the local community. Mr and Mrs Whitbread occupied number 1 with their family of four. he was a lorry driver but arrived home every night on his bicycle. i remember that the family owned an organ and on summer evenings when the windows were open, Mr Whitbread could be heard playing songs and hymns, and appeared to us children to be an accomplished musician. next door lived the norris family, with three children, naomi, John and a younger brother whose name escapes me. The children mixed with the locals, but unfortunately their mother had a mental disorder, although she was always immaculately dressed. her main peculiarity was the fact that she always carried a very long handled umbrella, but used the pointed end as the handle with the elaborate round handle on the ground! They did not stay at Green End for long and the house was then occupied by a Mr McLeod who was the local policeman. i remember one occasion, when i was bird nesting with Jack Wooding, that we happened to meet him and to my concern he called me over to talk to him. (i think Jack had some birds eggs in his cap at the time.) it appeared that he was considering sitting his sergeant’s exam and asked if i had an arithmetic book which he could borrow. i duly lent him one that evening but the next day he returned it, saying
everything was too complicated for him to study. in number 3 was the Wilby family with their three sons, Robert, Bernard and Kenneth, who immediately became part of the community. The boys were all very active in sporting activities and Bob and Bern played football for Green End and Wootton. Bob eventually became a policeman, Bern worked for London Brick co. but unfortunately Kenneth lost his life whilst very young serving in the navy in the second World War. next came ‘Tossle’ crowsley and his rather large family, who previously lived in a smaller house not far away. The eldest daughter nellie became a teacher at Bedford Road School and as previously mentioned became Mrs Milton. her brother Fred worked for London Brick co. and when he later married, lived in number 8. May and Bessie both worked at the cryselco Lamp Works. The youngest daughter was dorothy who i believe became a dressmaker. The father always seemed to be a happy man and could often be seen and heard whilst standing at the front door either singing or whistling. Unfortunately Mrs crowsley was crippled with rheumatism and had to be lifted up and down the stairs by her family. She often sat in a chair at the front door and always seemed cheerful. The practice of getting her upstairs at night was usually treated as a game and accompanied by much laughter.
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umber 5 Green End was occupied by the ashpole family, who originated from Wootton. There was a total of seven children, whose names i think were George, William, Bertha, nellie, Winifred and Gladys. The eldest four had already grown up and had started working. nellie and Winnie i remember, were members of a successful ladies netball team which won the championship of the Bedford School League. in later years Winnie married Ron Francis of Box End whilst her younger sister married someone with the same surname but of a different family. in number 6 lived the Odell family with five children. Mrs Odell was a widow with three sons, she had remarried shortly before coming to Green End. her previous name was cox and i think her first husband was a carpenter for a large travelling theatrical company. her eldest sons were Eric, James and Leonard, but she later had two more children, Frank and Joyce. On leaving school Frank was a motor mechanic at a Kempston garage (Mondays) and Joyce, who married a Jessop, became the landlady of the Shoulder of Mutton. in number 7 the tenants were Mr and Mrs Farrer. She was also a remarried widow with three grown up sons. Mr Farrer was a builder’s labourer,who always dressed smartly in corduroy trousers at the weekend, but was rather inclined to over imbibe much to the annoyance of his stepsons, who tended to ignore him!. They left this accommodation in 1939 and my mother, brother and i moved in following the death of my father. The second World war was declared the following day! This was strange as my family had moved into cemetery Lodge in august 1914, just as the first World War commenced … nEXT MOnTh – MEMORiES OF KEMPSTOn RURaL SchOOL 1917-1924
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SEPTEMBER 2021 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
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nEWS that a multi-million hollywood style studio is to be set up at Broxbourne in herts, is news to the ears of graduates of The Bedford college Group. Students at the South Bank centre in Bedford are preparing for a career in films with a range of performing arts and moviemaking technical skills. among them is the “top up” degree course taking students to full Ba qualifications. Of 14 students who embarked on the brand new Media Technology and Music Production Bas (Level 6) all have now heard they have passed, and four gained 1st class degrees. course Manager Sean doyle Ma, said: “We are so proud of all our students who are now wellplaced to seek careers in the fastmoving fields of movies and music.” The students themselves are a great mix of people proving how “progressing” from entry level courses to a full degree is very accessible at The Bedford college Group. This applies across a range of subject areas where people can study at a higher Education level bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk Patrick Taylor, Music Technology graduate, of Milton Keynes travelled to the South Bank centre in Bedford because: “There is nothing else like this in the area. The lecturers here know how the industry works and offer great insights.” Patrick progressed from a Foundation degree into the top up at Bedford college. in addition to being a guitarist, Patrick, is working in ‘mastering’ engineering in the industry, and as a tech-
Sean centre front, with L-R Patrick, Ryan John and Charlotte.
nician at Milton Keynes Theatre. Fellow Music Technology success, Ryan Shackleton, 23, of clapham, Bedford joined the college as a Level 3 student and worked his way towards his degree. he has made contacts in South Korea and plans to work there alongside his new musical
friends. “it’s very welcoming and comfortable here at Bedford college, but also inspiring.” Media production graduate charlotte afflick from Wootton came to college at the age of 16 to take a Level 3 BTEc in Media, TV and Film. She stayed on to
progress through her higher Education journey via a Foundation degree and now has a 1st in Music Production. “it’s brilliant at Bedford college. covid could have put a spanner in the works, but the staff made it all fit and now i am looking to head towards a career in production management.” John harrison, aged 42, decided to pursue his interest in movies as a profession, signing up as a mature student. Living in Bedford, the location of the campus and the flexibility of hours meant he could keep his job while writing scripts and planning his first film with a fellow 2021 graduate Matthew Jolaosho, who has a film in the Toronto Film Festival. https://bedfordcollegegroup.ac .uk/about/news/matthew-takingthe-movie-business-by-storm/ alex Mortby director of higher Education said: “Our higher Education courses are well recognised by a wide range of major employers in engineering, technology, health and care services, and our links with the arts and creative industries offer vital in-roads for students. The Bedford college Group is a great place to be an undergraduate, all the quality of teaching and contacts, without the living away costs of going to university.” Thinking of going through clearing to find a degree course? Look at The Bedford college Group campuses in Beds and northants. no need to ramp up accommodation costs, or give up local jobs. Final date for applications October 19.
Foundation supports new college facility
a dOnaTiOn of £750,000 by The connolly foundation is helping to fund a new Modern Methods of construction facility at Bedford college. The new department will provide courses for school-leavers, apprentices, and those wishing to progress to higher Education in this exciting and developing area. The facility will provide training in the latest equipment used on building sites as well as the manufacturing of building ‘offsite’, which will enable students and apprentices to
gain quality experience both in and out of the college environment. it will also be used to re-skill those already in the industry to respond to emerging methods of construction. david Wilkins, from Bedford college, said: this significant donation from the connolly Foundation has enabled the college to invest in the latest industry equipment which is used in the design and manufacture of Offsite buildings, representing a key part of the future of the construction industry. With this equipment
we will be able to train a wide representation of new and existing personnel with these emerging technologies and techniques as well as contributing to reducing the skills gap in the industry. The building is expected to be open in September and will accommodate nearly 100 students from the age of 16. The total cost is £4.3 million and the college has also received a donation from the South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership (SEMLEP).
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View from the Rt Revd
Richard Atkinson
The Bishop of Bedford
CELEBRATING TEACHERS
as the GcSE and ‘a’ Level exam results are announced each year i find myself remembering those who taught me at school. Whilst some have faded from memory, a select few remain prominent as those who helped me to be the person that i am. For education is never just about the conveyance of knowledge. it is always also about the development of potential, character, and personhood. among those i celebrate are Miss Sworder (it was surnames in my day!) who got me going as a seven year old; Mr Blaiklock who unlocked the mysteries of mathematics; ‘chalky’ White who had taught my uncle, but yet retained his passion for teaching and the desire to introduce us to the intricacies of cumberland and Westmorland Wrestling; and chris dean (we were getting more familiar by the sixth form) who revealed the wonders of modern history. Who do you remember? Who do you celebrate? One of my roles as a Bishop is to chair the diocesan Board of Education which oversees our family of 138 church Schools across Bedfordshire and hertfordshire. despite what is often said these are not ‘faith’ schools in a confessional sense, but state schools that have a christian character established for the communities where they are set. Popular with parents, inclusive in nature, they continue the involvement of the church of England in the education of children that has been there from the start. Over the last eighteen months at our Board of Education meetings we have listened to the headteachers on the Board as they have described how they and their colleagues have responded flexibly, creatively, patiently and with sheer hard work to the testing environment caused by the pandemic. it has been humbling to hear of the commitment to their children, their learning, and their well-being. despite the often changing, and sometimes inconsistent advice of government, they have given their all. at the start of this new school year let’s celebrate those who teach and all who work with them in our schools – all our schools whatever their character or foundation. Let us cherish the vocation that is teaching and rejoice in those beginning to train. above all let us rejoice in that gift of education that not only conveys knowledge but gives us life. as Jesus said: ‘i have come that they may have life and have it abundantly’.
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BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN SEPTEMBER 2021
In Focus with
In Focus with
Dave
Yasin
by Dave Hodgson Mayor of Bedford
— 11
MP for Bedford and Kempston
FOREIGN POLICY FAILURE
SUPPORTING JOBS AND BUSINESSES
i recently attended the ‘sod turning’ at Fujifilm’s new UK Office headquarters off cardington Road and also visited the amazon fulfilment centre at Bedford commercial Park. i have been pleased to be able to visit a number of businesses across the Borough as the coronavirus regulations have started to be relaxed. i am keen to visit as many of our wide variety of businesses as possible to better understand the opportunities and pressures they face. if you have a business, of any size, and would like me to visit please drop me an email at dave.hodgson@bedford.gov.uk Bedford Borough has a rich mix of businesses from a variety of sectors, with a number of high-value companies employing highly skilled personnel to undertake complex and innovative commercial operations. Other such businesses include Unilever, aircraft Research association, hybrid air Vehicles, Swiss Precision diagnostic and Mologic to name just a few. it is really valuable to have a number of high-value businesses joining, expanding or investing in Bedford Borough. not only have they brought investment and high skilled employment, they will also act as a catalyst to attract more business investment and high-value jobs into the area, against the backdrop of the emerging Oxford cambridge arc. We are also seeing investment in growing talent locally. i was very pleased to be at the opening of the new STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) teaching block at Mark Rutherford School. The new centre of excellence comprises seven classrooms and a lecture theatre and will inspire a whole generation of young people in Bedfordshire to pursue STEM subjects and help grow the next generation of engineers, scientists and technologists. You can read more about the opening at https:// mayordave.org.uk/en/article/2021/1409137/mark-rutherfordschool-s-new-stem-teaching-block.
Watching the scenes at Kabul airport as the Taliban took control has left me and many others with feelings of overwhelming sorrow and anger for the millions of afghans in danger. Reports that parents are throwing their babies over barbed-wire fences in desperate attempts to save them from Taliban rule show the sheer scale of the foreign policy failure of the US, UK and naTO, matched only by the humanitarian emergency now unfolding. i have already had a stream of heart-breaking correspondence from constituents here in Bedford and Kempston, frantic at the thought of the fate that awaits family members. Our immediate priority must be the deployment of British troops to evacuate British nationals, as well as the afghan staff and interpreters who assisted our armed forces. The Government has been shamefully slow to assure these afghans, and urgent steps must be taken to rescue all those to whom we owe a huge debt. The oncoming refugee crisis will require an international response and recent cuts by the conservative government to the foreign aid budget, including to afghanistan by half, put us on the back foot. it is imperative that the UK Government urgently co-ordinate with the Un and other international organizations to establish safe routes for refugees to neighbouring countries. The Government’s resettlement scheme to take 20,000 refugees over several years, with just 5,000 this year has already been derided by the UnhcR as ‘confusing and disingenuous’; most afghans fleeing the Taliban will not be able to access the scheme. The humanitarian crisis must mark a turning point for our failed asylum system, including ending the hostile environment. The nationality and Borders Bill would criminalise a woman fleeing the Taliban with her children on a boat across the channel. This Bill, which i voted against, is cruel and unworkable and must be overhauled. it is a tragic end that we are ceding back the country to the very insurgency that we went in to defeat in the first place. i have heard from British soldiers who are now further traumatised that their sacrifice has amounted to nothing. Of course, that’s not true. 457 brave British military personnel died fighting for decency and tolerance and to keep us safe from terrorist attacks. For 20 years, they largely succeeded, with the help of the afghan people, the majority for whom yearn for a true democracy, and 70,000 of whom died fighting for their country.
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CASTLE Newnham school is supporting a group of ex pupils who are doing the Three Peaks Challenge in memory of a school friend who tragically took his own life in 2019. In August they set off for Scotland in a minibus lent by the school. Liam Taylor is one
of the group who is involved in the challenge which aimed to raise for money for MIND the mental health charity. “Although we knew that Andy was suffering with some mental health issues, for the people who knew and loved him, this was obviously a massive
shock”, said Liam. “Mental illness and the stigma surrounding it is a big issue for men of a certain age in this country, and as Andy’s friends we wanted to find a way to do something to help with this issue in any way we could. “What we came up with was the Three Peaks Challenge. This involves climbing the highest mountains in Scotland (Ben Nevis), Wales (Snowdon) and England (Scafell Pike) in the space of 24 hours in order to raise money and awareness. “Mind, do wonderful work with supporting those with mental health issues and suicide prevention.”
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12 —
SEPTEMBER 2021 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
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film review mealtime The Duke Jim Broadbent goes back to 1961 as Kempton Burnton in the comedy biography ‘The Duke’. The movie portrays the real story of a 60-yearold taxi driver who stole Goya’s portrait of the Duke of Wellington from the National Gallery in London. Burnton claims the act of thievery was made for the greater good of the British elderly in care homes. Through a ransom note, Burnton agrees to return the painting, as long as the police fulfil his request asking the government to invest more for the future of elderly. Long before the event happened, Burnton himself had been campaigning for pensioners to be given free television. The movie will reveal not only what actually happened in the once-in-a-lifetime of the old man, but also the personal problems Burnton had been struggling with. Names among the cast are Helen Mirren, Fionn Whitehead, Matthew Goode, Anna Maxwell Martin, Aimee Kelly, Charlotte Spencer, and Sian Clifford. Meanwhile, those behind the
One pot chicken and potatoes
Serves: 4 An easy supper to make, particularly as all the ingredients go into one pan, so it even saves on the washing up!
screen are British director Roger Michell who takes the lead in making true of the screenplay by writers Richard Bean and Clive Coleman. ‘The Duke’ was first premiered at the Venice Film Festival on 4th, September 2020. It has gotten remarkable comments from movie critics in mainstream media despite failing to be the
events’ official selection. One of the reviews is written by Guy Lodge from Variety, saying that the film “Is a perfectly nimble, kind-hearted bit of teatime entertainment — ideally tailored to Jim Broadbent in one of his most appealing big-screen roles. ‘The Duke’ will hit the theatres in the UK on September 3, 2021.
INGREDIENTS - 300g cooked chicken, cut into bite-sized chunks - 650g salad potatoes, halved - 1 (400g) tin chopped tomatoes - 1 onion, chopped - 2 tbsps olive oil - 2 tsps ground cumin - ½ tsp dried chilli flakes - 3 tbsps chopped fresh coriander (optional) - 2 garlic cloves, crushed (optional) METHOD 1. Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan, add the onion and fry for two minutes until soft. 2. Add the potatoes, garlic, cumin and chilli and cook for a further minute, stirring. 3. Add the chicken, tinned tomatoes, then half fill the tin with water and add this to the pan. 4. Bring the mixture to the boil then simmer uncovered for 14 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the sauce thickened slightly. 5. Stir in the coriander and season to taste. 6. Serve in bowls with green beans.
comedy ‘Comedy in the Sun’ in Russell Park and The Quarry, Bedford Castle Comedy has two very special shows this September. Friday September 3 – Castle Comedy & The Comedy Cow team up with the Bedford Running Festival for an outdoor spectacular in Russell Park, Bedford. It will feature some of the biggest names in UK comedy, lovely surroundings & big laughs! SARA PASCOE is one of the biggest comedy stars in the UK! She is the host of Comedy Central’s Guessable & Dave’s Comedians Do Lectures and one of the stars of Mock the Week, Live at the Apollo and Taskmaster. She has also appeared on The Last Leg, QI and Have I got News for You. “Always clever and sometimes exquisite” The Independent JO CAULFIELD whether you’ve seen her on TV shows such as Have
I Got News For You, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow or The Royal Variety Performance, heard her on the radio on “Just a Minute” or “Stop The Press”, or caught her live at one of her awardwinning Edinburgh Festival shows, the chances are you’re already
Castle Comedy hosts the British Comedian of the Year: Bedford Heat. This competition has the biggest comedy prize in the UK, a whopping £10,001. This will be a special show
familiar with Jo’s work. “One of the finest female comics at work” The Observer PATRICK MONAHAN is an audience favourite who blends a high-energy comedy style with hilarious and engaging topical and observational material. His TV appearances include the hit family entertainment series Splash! (ITV) and the new series of Celebrity Squares (ITV). He was the winner of ITV1’s Show me the Funny. “Supremely engaging, adored by audiences” THE SCOTSMAN Thursday September 16 – British Comedian of the Year at the Quarry Theatre, Bedford.
where some of the UK’s top acts do their best 10-minute sets in the hope of going through to the final for the chance to win the mega cash prize! The standard of entrant has been outstanding with UK comedy circuit headliners the hottest up and coming acts appearing. The best thing is you the audience get to vote on who should win! Castle Comedy favourite Paul Revill will host the show. Doors Open at 6.30pm and the Shows Start at 7.30pm/8.00pm. Tickets: castlecomedy.co.uk
Saturday September 18
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reduce queuing, there will be controlled entry and exit into the park and supplementary catering and toilet facilities will be available. For more information including pricing on the Bedford Park Concerts please visit: www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk All these concert dates in The Park will sell out very quickly, as the UK has now awakened from lockdown everyone will be looking for an excuse to party, you have been warned get your tickets now!
Rock Choir reunited for ‘inside’ rehearsals Rock Choir Members in Bedford, Milton Keynes and Hitchin have been delighted to be able to resume physical choir rehearsals ‘inside’ this week following the relaxation of Covid restrictions. It’s been a long 16 months since Rock Choir had to switch to online, virtual teaching sessions via Zoom and YouTube. The Members also known as ‘Rockies’ have been keeping their spirits up by getting involved in not only their teaching sessions but online charity events and socials including baking activities, fancy dress, quizzes and much more. The Bedford, Milton Keynes and Hitchin Rockies make up one region of Rock Choir which is taught in over 400 communities across England, Wales and Scotland, featuring a total of over 33,000 Members. Each area of the country has had to adhere to different government guidelines on their approach to indoor choir rehearsals. The Welsh Rockies were able to lead the way in late June, whilst the rest of the country waited in anticipation for restrictions to be lifted in July. After leading her first ‘in person’ sessions with her Rockies in Bedford, Milton Keynes and Hitchin Rock Choir Leader, Lizzie Deane, commented: “What a wonderful (and emotional) week of indoor and outdoor rehearsals for our final Week 10. We stayed safe with distancing, sanitizer, good ventilation, masks and WE SANG TOGETHER IN HARMONY for the first time in a year and a half!! So so good to be back! Bring on September!” Local Rock Choir Members have all been overjoyed to reform together again. Rock Choir Member, Rachel Johnson, commented: “Lovely to see everyone’s faces and hear real harmonies going on again.” Fellow Rock Choir Member, Tim Holcroft, added: “Fantastic being back tonight! Lovely seeing
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He has since become one of the UK’s biggest pop stars achieving a string of number one national chart hits . Olly’s show will certainly put a smile back on the faces of concert goers as he performs his biggest hits, including tracks from this recently certified triple platinum album ‘Never Been Better’. The following evening Saturday 11, sees an amazing evening with the vibrant Café Mambo Ibiza, Balearics and Ibiza club anthems delivered by a star-studded line-up of DJs, world-famous Pete Tong,
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Following months of speculation and cancellations Bedford Parks Concerts live music weekend has been given the green light. This live music event was originally scheduled for summer 2020 however due to Covid restrictions was postponed from the weekend April 29 to the Bank Holiday weekend August 1, 2021. Covid restrictions also saw this date cancelled and now rescheduled for September 9 to September 12, 2021, now it finally looks like this concert is definitely going to happen! However take note the original programme has changed slightly more so by way of some refreshing additions. This now four day Bedford Park live Music festival will feature Birmingham’s finest Ocean Colour Scene on September 9, with special guests Dodgy, The Wholls and Marquis Drive, the show starts at 5pm till 11pm. Ollie Murs undoubtedly one of the UK’s biggest pop stars takes to the stage on Friday 10 at 5pm, complimented by an evening of chilled sounds of Ibiza from a star studded line up of DJs on Saturday 11 and finally an evening featuring some amazing operatic vocalists. Olly Murs will definitely be the highlight of the festival, Olly shot to fame back in 2009 when he achieved second place in the sixth series of the X Factor.
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Danny Howard, Faithless featuring sister Bliss, Hannah Wants, Riton and support from local DJ Mark Russell. This is a truly phenomenal line up, I can only imagine this evening will be attracting every house freak in town wanting to party again ! Finally Sunday 12, sees a night in the park for the slightly maturer clientele, Tenor Wynne Evans (Go Compare insurance TV advert vocalist) and soprano Victoria Joyce. This rousing musical accomplishment to the evening will be accompanied by the London Gala Orchestra . Despite the relaxation of Covid19 restrictions, organisers will have Covid-19 protocols in force to
NEW LOOK – NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED
everyone and great to sing together again. Can’t wait for next term’s songs. Love them already!” Caroline Redman Lusher, Creator and Creative Director of Rock Choir has been highlighting the importance of group singing and the powerful positive impact it has on mental health and well-being. Caroline Comments: “I am overjoyed that our ‘Rockies’ have been allowed to regroup and sing together inside once again. It’s been a long and emotional 16 months waiting for this moment to happen. Rock Choir is a lifeline for so many of our Members and the lockdown experience has been incredibly hard for them. However their resilience and determination to engage with our online teaching was overwhelming! I am so proud of all the Rock Choir Members and my dedicated Rock Choir team who passionately led our choirs with the love, energy and positivity that Rock Choir is famous for. “The nation’s mental health is at its worst and the services and support to combat loneliness, depression and anxiety are in huge demand and oversubscribed. Allowing choirs to reunite across the whole of the UK will now have a tremendous and positive impact and allow a healing process to begin for those who take part. Choirs of all types provide a life-line and this lifeline needs can now be reinstated.” Along with the Bedford, Milton Keynes and Hitchin Choirs, Rock Choir Members across the country are now preparing for their own physical rehearsals! It’s guaranteed to be an emotional reunion! The Bedford Rock Choir is now preparing for its first live performance since the pandemic, as they make a welcome return to the Bedford Park Proms on Sunday September 12. For further information or to set up an interview with Lizzie Deane, please contact Louise Harris on 07980 996318 or email louise@louiseharrispr.co.uk
food and crafts at Warden Abbey Vineyard, near Old Warden. Sunday, Sepember 12, 11- 4pm Wine tasting, local food and other stalls, Petting Farm, BBQ and refreshments. Entry: adults £4 online, £5 on day. children under 16 free. Tours £5. For further details and directions contact www.warden vineyard.org.uk
Sandy Historical Society: ‘Postcards’ Talk by
Rodney Todman, Friday 7.30pm September 24. Stonecroft Lounge, off St Swithins Way, Sandy, SG191BB. admission. £2 includes tea/coffee & biscuits. Please wear a face covering. Raffle. ample parking. For further details Contact 01767 680171
Yoga: Priory Methodist church,
Open day and wine sale Sunday 12 September
. local artisan food and craft stalls
. guided vineyard tours
Garden centre, Radwell Road, Milton Ernest MK44 1Sh, cars £5, vans £10. Sellers setup 9am, Buyers 10am-2pm, Sunday 5th September and Sunday 3rd October. no need to book a stall, bring your own table Contact: (01234) 823033 or enquiries@miltonernestgarden centre.co.uk
Bedford National Trust Association: addison centre,
Kempston, MK42 8Pn. Tuesday September 21, 2.30 Speaker. Polly Saltmarsh, ‘The Role of a Paintings Conservator’, Polly works as a paintings conservator for the national Portrait Gallery and the national Trust, among others. October 19, Tuesday 2.30 Speaker, Rob Spray, on ‘Hidden Treasures of our Secret Seas’. November 16, Tuesday 2.30 Speaker Jason Middleton on ‘Pearl. A famous Gemstone’ Contact: Betty Thomas 01480 860421 Advertise your event here from as little as £7 per month, email: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
Entry:
. free self-guided tours
Adults £4 online, £5 on day
. history display
Under 16s go free
. petting farm
Guided tours £5
. children’s activities
Advance booking Ad for entry and tours is recommended
. BBQ and refreshments
newnham avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ. 2pm Mondays Contact June for details: juandhannigan@yahoo.co.uk 8/21
Car Boot Sale: Milton Ernest
11am to 4pm
Bedford Road, Old Warden, Bedfordshire SG18 9LS
THE
QUEENS HEAD M I LT O N E R N E S T
UNDER N MANAGEMEW ENT
Food served: Mon-Sat 12-2, 6-9 Sunday 12-4 See our Facebook page for upcoming events
HOTEL NOW OPEN Queens Head, Rushden Road, Milton Ernest MK44 1RU
Tel: 01234 822412
Mon-Sat Noon-11pm Sunday Noon-10.30pm
Kempston Senior Citizens Club: The club has been closed
since mid March 2020 and it is only now that we feel we can reopen the club on Wednesday, October 6, at 9.30 a.m. at the centenary hall, Kempston, Bedford, for sessions on Wednesday mornings and Friday mornings and afternoons (with the exception of Friday, October 15, when the hall will not be available). We are a social club with sequence dancing on Wednesdays and sequence dancing, whist and bingo on Fridays. new members are welcome and for further information contact: Sheila Cobban, on 01234 347306.
14 —
SEPTEMBER 2021 BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN
Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Saturday 8am-1pm Call or visit for all your electrical supplies
Trade & Public Welcome Your local LED lighting specialist
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gardening
i
by Maureen Catlin
n September we should plant any bulbs that we want to flower indoors at christmas time. Prepared hyacinths are probably the most popular christmas flowering bulb. These have already been treated to bring their natural spring flowering time forward by about three months. Good varieties are Pink Pearl, delft Blue or city of haarlem, yellow. The lovely vibrant colours and fantastic scent fill the house at this time of year. Bulbs will flower for christmas if planted from the third week in September to the middle of October. choose an attractive container, for 3 bulbs it needs to be 15 cms in diameter, and using bulb fibre or a peaty compost half fill the pot. Set the bulbs close together, but not touching each other or the sides of the container, on the fibre or compost. Fill around the bulbs leaving the tops just showing at the surface. Water the pot and then place in a cool dark place. check after three weeks and water if the compost is dry and continue to check and water until the shoots Use this voucher to are 3 to 5cms. Then £2.50 movesave to a cool light was £5. Valid place until the flower from starts to1/9/21 show andto then30/9/21 to a warm window sill to flower. hyacinth pots also make lovely presents so Radwell finish withRoad (just off the A6) a moss toppingMilton and Ernest MK44 1SH coloured ribbon. it is interesting for children to watch the bulbs grow so planting in a hyacinth glass with just water and using the same technique of dark cool and then light warm conditions they can watch the roots, shoots flowers and leaves all emerge from the bulb. all that’s needed is to keep topping up the water level. Paper White, Pheasant Eye and Bridal crown are all good varieties of narcissus for planting at the end of September. Their natural flowering period is January or February, but
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Christmas! good quality bulbs will flower 6 to 10 weeks from planting. They all have a lovely perfume and should be planted as tightly as possible on the surface of the compost in a tall pot to balance the height of the bulbs and with a plant support. Water the pot and put in a cool dark place and keep checking until the shoots appear and then gradually bring into a light warm place to flower. The miniature narcissus Tete a Tete and Pipit are also delightfully scented and excellent to grow in the same way for flowering indoors. They will probably not be in flower until January but still a joy in the middle of winter. Large bright yellow crocus and fragrant Grape hyacinths also flower in January if grown indoors. Plant the bulbs at the end of October in the same way with a dark cool period of approximately 8 weeks before bringing into a light warm place. another very popular gift at christmas is the easy to grow amaryllis. it is usually sold in an attractive box containing the pot compost and bulb. Good varieties to look out for are christmas Star and Picotee both single flowers and cherry nymph and dancing Queen with double flowers. Plant the amaryllis in a container that is 2.5cms larger than the width of the bulb. Leave the top third of the bulb sitting above the soil level. Place the pot in a brightly lit spot on a windowsill and water sparingly until it produces shoots. To encourage
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the pot towards the light and the soil moist. Tel: 01234 823033 amaryllis should flower six to eight weeks
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after planting and the flowers will last for ages. To help the blooms stay fresh, move the pot to a slightly cooler but still bright spot once it starts to flower. With proper care, an amaryllis bulb can go on producing spectacular flowers year after year. all you need to do is feed the bulb with a balanced liquid fertiliser after flowering. as the leaves begin to turn yellow stop watering and allow the bulb to dry. Simply begin watering again next spring to wake the bulb up.
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KEMPSTON CALLING EDITION
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KEMPSTON CALLING SEPTEMBER 2021
— 15
New first team manager appointed at Rovers
Kempston RFC complete Bedford to Johannesburg charity challenge aFTER clocking up the miles for over five months, the players, friends and family of Kempston Rugby have completed an astonishing virtual pentathlon – covering the equivalent distance of a full round trip from the Kempston hammers ground to Johannesburg and back – all to raise much needed funds for MaGPaS air ambulance and Looseheadz Mental health charity. Back on the February 6, on a cold day in lockdown, Kempston Rugby set off on what was set to be a oneway virtual trip to Johannesburg, with club members, partners and their children challenged to run, walk, swim, cycle, scooter, toddle and even crawl the 9,755 miles between Bedford and Johannesburg before the kick off of the Lions vs South africa rugby match on July 24. as solo exercising was about the only thing that lockdown restrictions allowed, and with no in-person rugby training on the horizon, each individual member of the fundraising squad set to work on racking up the miles and raising money for MaGPaS and Looseheadz – charities that are close to the team’s hearts. But it quickly became apparent that they were covering ground at a much faster pace than they had anticipated. By May 18, they had already reached Johannesburg, ticking off
major landmarks and milestones on their way. To keep the journey interesting, the team virtually ‘visited’ Luxemburg, Monaco, and Gibraltar airport (a building designed by the club’s sponsors 3d Reid), and the guys even got an inspiring shout out from South african international Elton Jantijes. Rather than quitting while they were ahead, the team decided to redouble their efforts and make the return virtual journey to the hammers’ ground in time for the big game. The team’s hard work and determination paid off and, with an extra boost from cleverly putting a rowing machine in the club’s bar during the game, Kempston RFc completed their ‘Bedford to Burg and Back’ chal-
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lenge and the team crossed the finish line just after the final whistle. alex Redford, Kempston RFc club chairman, said: “i am so proud of the lads and of all the Kempston rugby family who have taken the time and put in the work to complete this gargantuan challenge. “We hadn’t been able to train together or play rugby for such a long time and so having this virtual pentathlon to work towards has kept the team bonded and motivated during what has been a tough winter for everyone. it also helps that it’s kept us all fit and ready for the new season! “We are so happy to have completed the challenge and would like to encourage people to continue to donate to our page so we can raise as much as possible for our brilliant charities – MaGPaS and Looseheadz – who are doing such important work. a huge shout out to the event organisers – Zak Miller, Rachel cameron, Tom Trinder and Michael Ward – who have gone above and beyond to make this such a success.” To help the team reach their target, you can donate to the Kempston RFc fundraising page at: justgiving.com/fundraising/ bedstoburg To find out more about joining Kempston RFc next season, visit w w w. p i t c h e r o . c o m / c l u b s / k emp s to n r f c/ or ch eck o u t Kempton RFc on Facebook.
by Matthew Vine
ROVERS have announced the appointment of new first team manager, Scott dash. Following a successful interview with the club last week with assistant Mark Royal, chairman andy Kirby said: “We are delighted to welcome Scott and Mark to the club. We feel with their experience and knowledge of the league that they are a very good fit for us. We look forward to a very happy and successful relationship.” dash joins having previously managed northwood, Scott was also assistant manager at chalfont St Peter both clubs who have been Step Four regulars in the past few seasons, and no strangers to matches with Rovers. dash started his playing career at Wycombe Wanderers, before having spells at hayes & Yeading and Beaconsfield Town, amongst others. dash retired playing through injury, and went into coaching, starting as Leverstock Green U18 manager, before managing the senior side and going on to achieve silverware in the St Mary’s cup. Speaking to dash, he mentions: “i would like to thank andy and the club for giving me the opportunity to manage such a fantastic club and i am looking forward to the challenge ahead.”
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