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DECEMBER 2017
Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year
Poplar’s Polar Bears are back – see page 6
LOCAL NEWS magazine
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Fly-tippers caught on camera
TWo offenders have been fined over £3,000 for flytipping and littering, after both were caught on camera. one was caught by Central Bedfordshire Council’s Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) and one on a dash cam provided by a member of the public.
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Both offenders were caught in separate incidents, one at the Poynters Road Roundabout Dunstable and the second at the bottle bank situated on the High Street in Houghton Regis. Both offenders were asked to attend Luton Magistrates Court last week. one of the offenders attended court and pleaded guilty, and the other didn’t attend but was found guilty of failing to respond to a Section 108 Questionnaire.
Lutfur Rahman, a taxi driver of Lollards Close, Luton was caught fly tipping on two separate occasions at the Houghton Regis High Street bottle bank. He was caught dumping a small fridge freezer,
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four black bin bags, a child’s car seat, and some boxes during Thursday 22 May 2017 and Tuesday 4 July 2017. Rahman pleaded guilty and was fined £1,200, ordered to pay costs of £955 and a victim’s surcharge of £120, totalling nearly £2,275. on 22 May 2017, Jena o’Halleron, of Highcroft, Leighton Buzzard and the driver of her vehicle were caught throwing takeaway type boxes from her car. o’Halleron, who failed to attend court was found guilty of not responding to the Section 108 Questionnaire and was fined £440, ordered to pay £375 towards prosecution costs and £44 victim surcharge, totalling £859. Councillor Budge Wells, Executive Member for Corporate Resources, said: “These prosecutions are another great result for our Community Safety operations Team. By using dash cam images provided by a member of the public and our own CCTV images, it shows how cameras can help reduce crime, nuisance and antisocial behaviour, and assist in securing arrests and prosecutions. “We have a zero-tolerance attitude toward fly-tipping and littering in Central Bedfordshire, and our Environmental Protection, CCTV, Waste and Legal teams work relentlessly to ensure offenders are brought to justice. “We want Central Bedfordshire to remain a great place to live and work. Failure to properly dispose of any type of waste is simply not acceptable, and we will take action against anyone caught - regardless of the type or quantity of discarded waste.”
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Local girls now professional aerialists
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JESSiCa Gilby and Gabby Wigfield are two inspiring circus professionals who both attended local schools Flitwick Lower School, Woodlands Middle School and Redborne Upper. although both attending the same schools, Jess and Gabby didn’t truly connect until meeting later at aerial arts Luton, a specialist aerial gymnastic training school. a few years later the girls are now performing both solo and duo routines in the upcoming circus show ‘Circus Spectacular’. Matt Ryan-Day- head coach in aerial arts Luton, describes the girls’ fantastic journey: “When the girls from Flitwick turned up at my school they were full of excitement and enthusiasm at trying a new sport. From starting at beginners aerial classes and quickly surpassing others, to seeing the different equipment available at aaL and the skills i was teaching, the pair have constantly tested my will by coming in saying “today we’re learning elbow rolls” (when one couldn’t forward roll and the other could barely hold herself up!). From then, they have surpassed my expectations; conquering fears, new equipment and taking part in public displays for the school. over time the girls became close friends and paired up to create the stunning ‘Duo astra’; strength and flexibility combined, resulting in a stunning routine and strong partnership on the aerial straps. They are a credit to my school and embody exactly what aaL is all about and i am so excited to see them undertake their professional aerial journey and where it leads them” You can watch both girls performing in Circus Spectacular on the 9th and 10th December at the Flitwick Village Hall. @ buytickets.at/circusspectacular Family tickets just £25 for 2 adults & 2 children
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The polar bears are back!
The polar bears are back at Poplars, lending a helping hand and putting the finishing touches to their fantastic Christmas displays! They have now taken their places in the entrance, along with Santa and are there to greet all the customers as they come through the doors. ‘All The Fun of the Fair’ is the theme for their displays this year and fun is definitely what you get when you visit this Christmas! Pop along and see Glitter and Sparkle, two of Santa’s favourite real-life reindeer who will be there right up until Christmas. Glitter is the proud mum of Sparkle, her six month old calf and both have settled in really well. Poplars ran a facebook poll for their
friends to vote for the names and Glitter and Sparkle were the out and out winners. The reindeer can be visited any time during the garden centre opening times. Santa’s Grotto opened on Saturday 25th November and will be open every weekend until Christmas. Book your place on line now by visiting www.poplars.co.uk Santa himself is also in the restaurant every Saturday morning 9am-10am for Santa’s Saturday Breakfast Club. So if you come along and have breakfast, you might be joined by Santa before he goes off to work for the day! So why not visit Poplars before Santa visits you this Christmas!
Boys Brigade go time travelling
JUNioR Section (ages 8-11) at Flitwick BB have been time travelling in recent weeks. Back 100 to learn about for boys their age as BB started working with the Under 11’s for the first time. They looked at the early uniform and tried out some of the games boys would have played 100 years ago. They also have been reflecting on the events of WWi. Then forward in time to the year 2117 when they designed some new uniforms that might be worn one hundred years from now – space like kit seemed to be popular. another one of their 100 Challenges were ticked off when they visited the Parish Church and met Rev Lucy who showed the boys around, and drew interesting comparisons
with our own Methodist Church. one of the boys even got to wear Lucys vestments they fitted surprisingly well. anchor Boys(ages 5-8) have been creating self-portraits and also thinking about WWi and creating their own Poppy Wreath that went on display in the Methodist Church for Remembrance Sunday.
anchor Boys have their first Competition of the session Football Skills with our two teams finishing third and fifth. Company & Senior Section (ages 11+) have now completed their Survival Theme and are now learning about disabilities and the impact they can have and how we make our activities more inclusive. The Company took part in the town Remembrance Parade and laid a wreath with others at the war memorial. Looking ahead to the New Year we are looking to expand our Junior and Company Sections – if any boys are interested in joining then please get in contact details below. To keep up to date with all things BB in Flitwick then do find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or for more details call 01525 720506 or email 1flitwick@boys-brigade.org. uk
Household garden waste collection to be suspended for the winter KerBSide collection of household garden waste will be suspended across Central Bedfordshire over the winter months. The collections will be suspended from Monday, 4 december 2017 until Friday 2, March 2018 inclusive. The decision to stop the kerbside collection service during the quietest time of the year for garden waste was made as part of the council’s financial planning process, and comes as a result of Government funding cuts. Council tax alone doesn’t raise enough to cover all the services the council provides, and so the council focuses on delivering services that meet the periods of high demand, in this case restricting garden waste collections to during the growing season. during the suspension, garden waste can still be recycled at the council’s recently improved household Waste recycling Centres. Alternatively, residents with enough space in their gardens are encouraged to compost at home All Central Bedfordshire residents are eligible for a discount on compost bins and accessories under a council scheme to encourage composting. For more information about changes to your garden waste collection please visit www. centralbedfordshire.gov. uk/garden-waste
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Police force selected as finalist for Dementia Friendly Awards
NUMERoUS steps towards maintaining the safety of people with dementia has led to Bedfordshire Police being shortlisted for a national charity award. The police force which adopted the Herbert Protocol Scheme earlier this year – designed to not only prevent someone with dementia, alzheimer’s disease or memory problems going missing but to improve responses for locating them if they do – has been nominated in the Dementia Friendly organisation of the Year (Large) category at alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Friendly awards 2017. This award recognises businesses and organisations including leisure, tourism, the arts, emergency services, health and social care and celebrates large-scale efforts to be more dementia friendly. Bedfordshire Police holds a quarterly internal dementia champions forum and has also worked with the University of Bedfordshire to develop bespoke police dementia training. Jaki Whittred, Chief inspector which celebrates the variety of dementia friendly organisation. at Bedfordshire Police, said: “i am proactive actions Bedfordshire “our dementia champions really proud of our nomination, Police has taken to become a forum has already achieved regu-
lar involvement at Bedford and Luton Dementia action alliances, hosted a Singing for the Brain session and alzheimer’s Society Roadshow at Police Headquarters and has raised money in various ways. “one of our main priorities has been to launch the Herbert Protocol. What made this service unique to us and those living with dementia across Bedfordshire, is having a Dementia Support Worker from alzheimer’s Society working in our missing person team two days a week to provide further direct support to families affected. “The overall objective is to reduce the number of people going missing from home and reduce the number of repeat occurrences so people stay safe. “We have about 100 people living with dementia reported as missing every year across the county, in addition to people that are reported as missing more than once. “Since the project launched we have registered over 50 people to the scheme and have conducted 15 home visits.”
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CHRISTMAS BAUBLES OPEN DAY With the wintery season approaching, we find the magical Christmas at our doorstep. Christmas time has always inspired creativity, inventiveness and originality... to celebrate this colourful time of the year, we are holding a few Christmas Baubles Open Days, where you can pop in and explore the craft of glassblowing and produce some unique Christmas baubles by using a variety of colours. The workshop will consist of a dedicated one hour slot, it will have the maximum of two people per slot and it must be booked in advance.
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Central Beds Council hosts national zoo training seminar
iN recognition of its expertise in the sector, yesterday Central Bedfordshire Council hosted a seminar at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo in Dunstable to advise other authorities on undertaking successful zoo inspections. The seminar was attended by over 50 different local authorities who were seeking to understand the meticulous process of undertaking a high standard zoo inspection. Under the Zoo Licensing act 1981, local authorities must undertake zoo inspections before and after issuing a zoo licence. Licences are initially provided for a period of four years, with subsequent renewal licences issued for a six year period. Central Bedfordshire has three very successful zoos in the area, including Whipsnade which is the largest zoo in the UK. The council has two dedicated and experienced officers who inspect each zoo on a yearly basis. The council also employs veterinary surgeons and other animal welfare and zoo specialists to assist. These zoo inspections must be very detailed and thorough to ensure that the zoo operates to a high standard and that animal welfare and public safety are top priority. The conference covered a range of topics, including pre-inspection preparations, when to carry out special inspections when things go wrong, typical complaints and issues, and how to enforce and
improve standards at zoos. The seminar started with a welcome from Councillor Caroline Maudlin, Deputy Executive Member for Community Services at Central Bedfordshire Council. This was followed by talks by experts from organisations such as the British and irish association of Zoos and aquariums (BiaZa) and Richard Johns, Environmental Health officer at Central Bedfordshire Council. Richard Johns said: “We were very pleased and proud to host this event and welcome such a large number of guests. This sort of training isn’t widely offered, so it was great to share our expertise with other authorities. our seminar provided an excellent opportunity to share the effective zoo inspection knowledge that we as a council have gained. We intend to arrange future zoo training events for other local authorities who were unable to attend this event”. Councillor Caroline Maudlin said: “The day was a great success, and i heard lots of positive comments from attendees. i’m delighted that the council is recognised for being such a successful authority. To help improve overall standards in UK zoos, we will continue to contribute to the all Party Parliamentary Zoos and aquarium Group at Westminster, and to advise and share best practice with other local authorities.”
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Great opportunities for young people
iN october 2014, Bedfordshire Youth United was launched by Lord Lieutenant Helen Nellis. it was set up to encourage more young people to join one of the organisations and some have since found their numbers increasing. The organisations involved are: air Training Corps, army Cadet Force, Boys Brigade, Fire and
Rescue Cadets, Girl Guiding, Girls Brigade, Police Cadets, Scouts, Sea Cadets and St John ambulance. adult volunteer, Nigel Taylor said: “The idea behind Bedfordshire Youth United is to make people aware of the many opportunities there are for young people right across the County.
The ten organisations provide a wide range of activities that will benefit young people in Bedfordshire. organisations such as Guides and Scouts provide a great number of different fun activities for people aged from five to 25. “The Fire and Rescue Cadets, the Police Cadets and the army
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Cadets will help teenagers learn about team building, leadership and team work.” Nigel added: “When we attend community events people often tell us they didn’t know of this organisation or that organisation. By getting out to community events we can demonstrate some of the activities each of the organisations do on a regular basis.” Nigel also said, “We often hear the saying, “There isn’t anything for children and teenagers to do”. There are a great number of opportunities for young people to get involved in one or more of the organisations. i do hope more people will join in and have the chance to have some fun, make new friends, build confidence and learn some life-long skills. Some of the organisations are led by volunteers and due to the growth in organisations such as Guides and Scouts there is always the need for more adult volunteers. For information about any of the ten organisations involved in Bedfordshire Youth United, please visit www.youthunited.org.uk or www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/ council/stronger-communities/ armed-forces-covenant/youthunited.aspx.
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20 years of service to Central Beds residents
LiNK-A-ride Community Transport have been providing a service for over 20 years to residents of Central Bedfordshire. We offer a door-to-door service for those who may find it
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Breakfast morning
THE morning of 15th December will see pupils at Russell Lower School buzzing in more ways than one. a regular breakfast morning will take place from 8am with parents and grandparents joining the children in the classroom. The activities will be science based and the children will have many challenges. They will make Rudolph’s nose glow using electric circuits or learn how to thaw Santa’s hands, provide the reindeers with clean water, or use chromatography to
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make decorations. as well as this maths and engineering will be combined as different materials will be on offer to make Christmas trees – either 2d or 3d. Russell Lower School are also currently liaising with the friends from Kings arms Garden in ampthill, as new tree labels are being designed and these will be used in the garden from the end of December. The gardening club are looking forward to working with the volunteers in the garden.
The Bulletin series reaches over 25,000 homes and businesses across central Bedfordshire To find out more visit: rosettapublishing.com or call 07724 905406
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Club Towers wins LTA ‘Club of the Year’ award
Waterway Park
THE Bedford and Milton Keynes Waterway Park can provide a unique opportunity to create new green infrastructure according to the National infrastructure Commission’s final report on planning for economic growth in the oxford/Cambridge/Milton Keynes corridor.
over the past year the NiC has been looking into the ways in which economic growth and housing delivery can be speeded up across the whole corridor.
The proposed Waterway Park sits at its heart, between Bedford and Milton Keynes providing a unique opportunity for thinking big and planning across boundaries.
Whilst the report emphasises the need for improved road and rail connections it also points to the need for strong ‘placemaking’ including new green space to help establish places where people want to live and work. Taking the Waterway Park as a unique example of planning for green infrastructure at a strategic level the report says
“The scale of growth and the opportunities created through greater arc-wide collaboration on planning means that there is unique opportunity to take a large-scale strategic view of natural capital and biodiversity net gain opportunities.
Projects such as the established Bedford & Milton Keynes Waterway Park could offer such an opportunity to create a green infrastructure asset which contributes to wider placemaking objectives.”
BedFordShire LTA has announced that its prestigious ‘Club of the Year’ award for 2017 goes to the new Towers health & racquets Club, which opened in Bedford in March this year. The award was officially presented at the LTA annual dinner-dance and presentation evening held at Luton’s Venue 360. The award recognises the massive contribution that Club Towers has made to the tennis scene in Bedfordshire since its opening. The awards are assessed on a range of criteria such as excellent customer service, quality of facilities, strength of coaching programmes, strong leadership, use of the latest technology, and financial sustainability. Collecting the award, Managing director Matthew Towers commented: “We are absolutely delighted that our contribution to the tennis scene in Bedfordshire has been recognised by the LTA. My sincere thanks to all of our team at the Club, especially Nick Boys and rachel dubsky, who have headed up our tennis coaching. “Their energy and enthusiasm has helped to create a vibrant tennis scene for both adults and juniors and our coaching programmes are still growing at an amazing pace.” Presenting the award, Francis Cauldwell, Chairman of the Bedfordshire LTA said: “The opening of Club Towers has provided a major shot in the arm for tennis in the County, bringing indoor courts to Bedford for the first time, and more than doubling the number of covered courts during the winter months. “This will help to drive increased tennis participation in the County, and we would like to whole-heartedly congratulate Matthew and the entire Club Towers team for making this happen.”
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Flitwick Beaver Scouts meet Canine Partners
iT’S been a really busy month for Beaver Scouts (boys and girls aged 6 to 8). one of the highlights was the visit of Canine Partners to each of the Colonies as part of their Disability awareness badge They were shown how the dogs could take the gloves off someone’s hand, socks off their feet, take items out of the washing machine and how they help someone get out of bed. They’ve also been working towards their Global issues badge where they ‘created’ a zoo of endangered animals. They will also be keeping a record of recycling and making a water filter. They have also made bird feeders as part of their creative activity badge. Two of the four Colonies had a camp fire and enjoyed hot dogs afterwards. The Cub Scouts (boys and girls 8 to 10 ½) played several games with a Halloween theme including getting jelly babies out of flour, eating doughnuts from a piece of string and apple bopping. They have been working towards their Fire Safety badge which included a visit to Dunstable Fire Station. after touring the station, seeing the equipment on the engines and asking lots of questions, they were allowed to use the house and had great delight in soaking the ground at the back of the fire station. Cub Scout, Luca Burke said: “Every week at Cubs is different. Going to the fire station and squirting water in the air was great. When i tried to get jelly babies out of the flour, i think i got more flour than sweets!” The Scouts (boys and girls aged 10 ½ to 14) have been working towards their Digital Citizen badge and have been learning survival skills. They have been on a night hike and another one is planned for early December. at the Bedfordshire Scouts ‘Top awards’ presentation event, 12 Beavers were pre-
sented with their Bronze Chief ple and adult volunteers those about Flitwick Scout Group, Scout award and one Cub opportunities.” please visit www.flitwickscoutScout with their Silver award. For further information group.org.uk Four of the Young Leaders (boys and girls aged 14 to 18) were presented with their ‘Young Leader’ award. This is in recognition of the training they have undertaken which has helped them develop new skills and become more confident. approximately 160 people from the Group attended the Town Remembrance Day Parade and Service. Some of the children were very proud to carry their sectional flag for the first time. adult volunteer, Karen Fletcher said: “Scouting gives young people the opportunity to do activities for the first time and helps them gain and build confidence. amongst other things, they learn about team work, helping other people, develop new skills and find out more about the world. The tour of the fire station and using the hoses is not something everyone can do, so being involved in Scouting gives young peo-
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Photo competition winners announced
CPRE Bedfordshire has announced the winners of its photo competition. The competition was run to mark the charity’s 30th anniversary, during which time it has worked to promote and protect the countryside of Bedfordshire. The theme for the competition was ‘Bedfordshire: a Changing Landscape’, and we received 89 entries, each of which offers a different perspective on our beautiful county. First prize – Blowing in the Wind: Combining the modern wind turbines with a traditional cornfield by david Bond. (Pictured below) This dynamic shot shows a backdrop of contrasting wind turbines against a cloudy sky, set against a yellow field of barley in Langford. The judges especially liked the colour, contrast and composition of the shot. The wind turbines also reflect a recent change in the countryside across Bedfordshire. although they have been the subject of controversial planning decisions, turbines are now a largely accepted feature in many of our landscapes and represent a shift towards a more sustainable use of our natural resources. in this shot, the judges felt that the photographer has found harmony between the new turbines and the agricultural landscape.
runner-up – Morning Glory by Joe Mcdonald This striking image shows a farmer at work as the sun rises over a field in Little Staughton. The judges especially liked the mood of the image, and the composition. Farming remains one of the most significant uses of land in Bedfordshire and will continue to have a huge impact on the character of its landscapes. The following photos were commended: l Growth by Helen Flack, at Silsoe l Riseley Sunset by Tony Pay l Homeward Gallop by Claire Davenport at icknield Way Farm, beneath Dunstable Downs additional shortlisted photos were: l Sharpenhoe Summer by Katherine Bond l ampthill Great Park by Joanna Brooks l Cultivated Lines by Whizz Middleton, at Barton Hill Farm, Lilley l Joshua Tree by ian Moffatt, at Dunstable Downs l a Modern Scene - East Midlands train by Ben Morley, from ampthill Great Park l autumn in ampthill Great Park by Martin Nellist
l Working on the Edge by andrew Rayner, at Shefford l Broom South Quarry by William Rayner as spokesperson for CPRE Bedfordshire said: “We are delighted with the number of entries in our photo competition. This is CPRE Bedfordshire’s 30th anniversary, and over this time, many of our landscapes have inevitably undergone change. “at CPRE, we work to
ensure our valued countryside and urban greenspaces, which we all benefit from, are protected and enhanced for future generations. “These photos provide a shapshot of Bedfordshire’s countryside today, and tell some stories about how how our landscapes can be seen to be changing - they also showcase some of the variety of landscapes and natural beauty that can be found throughout Bedfordshire.”
Have your say on how your local community is represented
RESiDENTS in Central Bedfordshire are being given the opportunity to have a say on how local communities are represented by parish or town councils. as part of its first ever Local Governance Review, the Central Bedfordshire Council is asking the public what changes, if any, they would like to see to the 78 parish areas within Central Bedfordshire. Parish or town councils are typically responsible for looking after certain local facilities such as allotments, bus shelters, parks, playgrounds, public seats, public toilets, public clocks, village or town halls, maintenance of footpaths, cemeteries, village greens and various leisure and recreation facilities but this can vary between councils. This review is an opportunity to look at parish boundaries. although most boundary areas make geographical sense, as Central Bedfordshire’s population has grown, there are now some areas where the parish boundaries might seem strange. This review presents an opportunity to change this. The Council wants to hear residents’ views on whether they think their town or parish council is properly reflecting the needs of their local community. Cllr Richard Wenham, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Corporate Resources said: “This consultation is a valuable opportunity for people living in Central Bedfordshire to have their say, as part of the democratic process, on the local representation. We hope that people respond to the questionnaire to let us know if they think there should be changes to their parish or town council. “This will be the first time in a number of years that residents will have had the chance to affect change in the way they are represented on a local level. it may be a boundary change, the number of councillors in their parish, creating a new parish, merging parishes or sub-dividing a parish into smaller wards. “although it may sound like quite an obscure thing to ask people to consider, it is something that will impact on the many communities within Central Bedfordshire.” The consultation runs from 1 November 2017 until 1 February 2018 and is available at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/consultations
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DECEMBER 2017 MID BEDS BULLETIN — 19
Celebrating 1000 years of volunteering
FRoM 18 to 80 you’re never too old to volunteer as a Bedfordshire Girl Guide Leader. Sunday 5th November saw the annual, Valuing our Volunteers awards Ceremony, held at the Millhouse Hotel & Restaurant, Sharnbrook, Bedford. This year the awards were in a number of categories, from five years’ service to an outstanding 60 years service. The ladies honoured have, between them, given over 1000 years of volunteering, to work with girls and young women from all across Bedfordshire. Sandra Cove a leader in Kempston received her award for 50 years service and Valerie Cousins from the Dunstable Division her 60
years service award, an exceptional achievement. Georgina Barrett received her Queens Guide award and Sue Champkins from the Luton Division her Laurel award in recognition of her outstanding service to guiding. Valerie said: “Girl-guiding has become part of my life, being a member of the Guiding movement has given me so much over the past 60 years, fun, friendship, and adventure.” Valerie added: “i am now very much looking forward to the next 60!” This year, for the first time in over a decade, Girlguiding Bedfordshire can boast a membership of over 5,000 across the region. County Commissioner ann Crome said:
“We are delighted that so many girls and young women are joining Girlguiding Bedfordshire. it is a testament to our Leaders and Volunteers that Guiding is seen as a fantastic organisation to be a part of.” The ceremony was attended by Mayor of Luton – Cllr Mohammad ayub, Speaker of Bedford Borough Council – Cllr Jade Uko, Cllr Carol Hegley – Central Beds Council – Executive Member for Social Care and Housing, Cllr Caroline Maudlin - Central Beds Council – Deputy Executive Member for Community Services, Carol Roberts – Girlguiding anglia Region President and Helen Pope – Girlguiding Cambridgeshire West County Commissioner.
3-COURSE CHRISTMAS LUNCH £14.95 Soup or paté
Turkey with stuffing Pigs in blankets Cranberry sauce – gravy Yorkshire Pudding Roast potatoes – Parsnips and Carrots
Christmas Pudding with brandy sauce or cheesecake and cream
PER PERSON Booking advisable
www.miltonernestgardencentre.co.uk
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MILTON ERNEST GARDEN CENTRE
Radwell Road (just off the A6) Milton Ernest MK44 1SH
20 — MID BEDS BULLETIN DECEMBER 2017 in the nineteenth century German Protestants marked off each day up to Christmas either by lighting a candle or simply making a chalk mark; a way of focusing their lives on the coming celebration of the birth of Jesus. Early in the twentieth century Gerhart Lang advanced this by printing the first cardboard advent Calendar with the familiar windows to be opened each day through December up to the 24th. i recall as a child opening each window in turn and discovering the picture that would tell something of the Christmas story. it was part of marking the season of advent – a word that means ‘coming’ – that is the four weeks leading up to Christmas Day. a time in the Church’s year where the emphasis is on prayer, penitence and preparation; a time of waiting and being ready to once again celebrate the new-born Jesus. advent calendars with a more commercial
ADVENT
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View from the Rt Revd
Richard Atkinson
The Bishop of Bedford
focus are not new. Cadbury’s have produced their chocolate calendars for many years. But this year the choice has been huge! among them the Craft Beer Calendar with miniature bottles of beer behind each window; the mince pie calendar with twelve luxury mince pies; the italian treats calendar and one with Pork Scratchings for each day. of course you can always splash out on the £10,000 rare whiskey calendar. it is a long way from the cardboard calendars of my childhood!
The Bishop of St Albans hosts reception
THE Bishop of St albans held a Reception last week in support of the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Historic Churches Trust. Guests from both counties heard about the Trust’s ambitious plans to raise £3 million to set up a new Endowment Fund. income from the Fund will increase the ability of the Trust to give bigger grants for the repair of churches of all denominations in the two counties.’ in his talk, the Bishop said: “The work of the Trust is vital to repairing our unique heritage of churches. Beyond the value of the grants it gives, a grant from the Trust kick-starts local fundraising, lends credibility to the project and encourages further fundraising support from elsewhere. Churches and their congregations in two counties raise millions of pounds for other charities across the
region, the UK and the world – a contribution that often goes unnoticed. i urge you to join me in giving what you can to the campaign, to ensure the counties’ rich heritage of church buildings can continue to serve active and generous communities for centuries to come.” Richard Genochio, Chairman of the Trust, added: “The need for costly repairs to our churches is unending. Churches are not only outstandingly beautiful places of Christian worship, but are also repositories of our local history and shared heritage. Moreover, they are increasingly serving the whole community in hosting concerts, nursery schools, and even shops and post offices. i hope many people will want to support us in making gifts and by spreading the word.’’
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a long way from the celebration of advent! advent is a season of prayer, of simplicity, of love for others, of focusing on Jesus; and yet these so-called ‘advent Calendars’ tell a different story. instead of prayer, it is marketing and commerce. instead of simplicity, it is giving in yet again to consumerism. in the place of a concern for others it is pampering oneself – the Liberty Beauty Calendar offered fifteen luxury beauty products. instead of Jesus there is worship of the material things we idolise. The much reported decision of Greggs the bakers to use in their calendar an image of the shepherds surrounding a manger that contains instead of Jesus a partly eaten sausage roll, is a sad indictment of our times, i invite you to think again this advent. To rediscover that sense of waiting and expectation. To focus on others and Jesus. Maybe even look for a traditional advent Calendar and get back to the meaning of this season.
New support service in Luton
LGBT Links Luton introduces new Chemsex advice service for gay, bisexual and men who have sex with men. LGBT Links Luton is a support service in Luton that promotes respect, dignity and wellbeing of all individual’s, young people and families within the LGBT community. The service’s approach is to provide responsive expert programming, with the aim to maximise choices and pathways for achievement through continuous learning and development. ResoLUTioNs is a free and confidential drug and alcohol service for adults, young people and families in Luton. anybody can be affected by drug and/or alcohol use, regardless of their ethnicity, religion, beliefs, class, age, sexuality, disability or lifestyle. ResoLUTioNs believes that everyone has the ability to change. They provide: structured treatment interventions, access to pathways into inpatient and community detox rehabilitation, criminal justice interventions, hospital alcohol liaison service and so on. The two support groups ResoLUTioNs and LGBT Links Luton joined forces to introduce the brand-new advice service
Chemsex in July 2017. The service is aimed to MSM (men who have sex with men), who engage in sex whilst under the influence of drugs. This is officially known as ‘chemsex’. Chemsex is not the same as recreational drug use. There are specific forms of recreational drug use for the term to be used. The three drugs most commonly used are: GHB/GBL (G,Gina), Methamphetamine (Crystal, Crystal Meth) and Mephedrone (Meow Meow, M-Cat). The Chemsex service has a Specialist Support advisor on hand for informal, judgement-free chat about all things sex and drug related. The service is offering practical advice about safer drug use, risk reduction and how to lower the chances of sexual health risks when mixing drugs and sex for pleasure through providing a drop-in service. To make an appointment or to find out more about the support provided please call Daniella on 01582 454207. Find LGBT Links Luton and Chemsex service at: 63 inkerman Street, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 1JD. open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday (9.30-4.30pm).
SAFER DRUG USE
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DECEMBER 2017 MID BEDS BULLETIN — 21
Independent living residence wows judges
CENTRaL Bedfordshire Dunstable, has been awarded Development at the Grand most recognised events on the Council’s Priory View, an the title of Best Social or Final of the LaBC Building building industry’s calendar. a independent living scheme in affordable New Housing Excellence awards – one of the panel of industry experts judged Priory View the category winner out of 11 finalists from across England and Wales. Priory View, which was officially opened by HM The Queen in april this year, is a five storey residence containing 83 apartments of mixed tenure (affordable rent and shared ownership) for residents aged 55 or over. The building is a community hub including a restaurant, café, minimarket, hairdressers and beauty/treatment rooms in central atria, located within easy walking distance of Dunstable Town Centre. Priory View is the first independent living scheme built by Central Bedfordshire Council. This was a major challenge, a steep learning curve and very rewarding for the Council. Priory View was deemed to ViNoD Tailor the High Sheriff munities. it is also the perfect including debateable topics be unique because it has the of Bedfordshire joined tenants excuse to bring the residents of such as: parking in Luton, ‘wow’ factor from the second aged 55+ of local housing RaC together and showcase police numbers on the streets you walk in, rather than association Luton Community the community spirit within of Bedfordshire and current accommodation that an older Housing (LCH). The afternoon the sheltered housing scheme affairs both locally and nation- person has to ‘accept’ because was held at LCH’s Sheltered and beyond. The residents ally. their home is no longer suitable Daisy Craydon, Marketing for them. The colour schemes housing scheme which pro- come together to talk to the vides homes for over 25 resi- High Sheriff about their living and Communications Manager are bright and warm and the LCH commented: leisure areas are welcoming situations and their individual at dents. “Community impact Week is a and spacious. The café and The afternoon was organ- stories and backgrounds. Community impact Week great opportunity to highlight restaurant are shared with the ised to represent national Community impact week, an gave residents the perfect the value and importance of a local community and a delightopportunity to showcase the opportunity to discuss local strong presence and contribu- ful place for residents to take great work being done in com- issues with the High Sheriff, tion in the community. their family and friends. The “We were delighted that the roof terrace provides a great High Sheriff could join us for place to relax and the landthis event and our tenants real- scaped gardens and potting ly enjoyed discussing commu- sheds give residents a place to nity matters with him on the make their mark on the develday”. opment. Vinod Tailor, High Sheriff Pictured (l-r): Rob of Bedfordshire stated: “it was great to see everyone in good Burridge – LABC Warranty spirits and i thoroughly (Sponsor); Richard Scott, enjoyed meeting the residents LABC President; Colin Smart, and discussing local matters”. Kyle Smart Architects; Chris Luton Community Housing Weir, Kyle Smart Architects; is a non-profit housing associa- Ian Johnson, Housing Team; tion offering affordable hous- Samantha Holder, Building Control; Kim Dallen, Building ing for vulnerable people. With a variety of different Control; Andrew Davie, projects, LCH believes in the Assistant Director, Developimportance of serving our ment Infrastructure and Gyles Brandreth, guest presenter. community.
Afternoon tea and cake with High Sheriff
22 — MID BEDS BULLETIN DECEMBER 2017
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Swim England Club of the Year Award
tributions from all of the exemplary volunteers and committee members that allows Flitwick Dolphins SC to continually develop and advocate a positive environment for all of our swimmers. as described by ian Fowler: “This award recognises a nonSwim England funded club that
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unteers, extended family members, officials and coaches. Everyone involved at Flitwick Dolphins, no matter how large or small their contribution is to the running of the club and its many endeavours, is highly valued and appreciated. Flitwick Dolphins members are proud to be a part of the club and it is a feeling that is visible across all of FDSC’s swimmers, their families and the coaching team and committee. The award will be placed within the club trophy cabinet situated at The Flitwick Leisure Centre, where it will sit in pride of place as a display of what a fantastic swimming club Flitwick Dolphins is. aside from this amazing news, on the afternoon of armistice day the club also received another huge recognition. Liz Woolner (Masters swimmer) was one of the finalists in the Swim England award: ‘Senior Participant’. once again, despite tough competition and a large number of nominations she shone through, did the club proud and won the award! This award recognises Liz as an individual who has accomplished many notable achievements in aquatics. She is the Masters champion, British Masters record holder, East region record holder, and bronze medal winner at European Masters. alongside an array of medals, personal best times and records that Liz has developed over her career as a swimmer, this award was presented to someone who could not have been more deserving of it. James Handler – FDSC Press Officer
Photography: Stillsport.com
iT comes with great pleasure that we are able to announce that Flitwick Dolphins have been presented with the Swim England Club of the Year award on the 11th of November 2017 at the National awards Ceremony held at The Great Hall at Birmingham University. The award was accepted by the club chairman ian Fowler, along with (head coach) Nigel Halford; (secretary) Sandra Grant; (coaches) Louise King & ian Murray and (club fundraising & event’s organiser) Michelle Watson who all attended the prestigious event on behalf of the club. There were over 30 nominations Nationally for this award, all of which were stringently examined by the Swim England awards panel and subjected to a thorough checking process, however, we should all be extremely proud to have ‘shone through as the most deserving of this honour’ – Sandra Grant. This award highlights how all of our members, no matter what their role in the club, display passion, enthusiasm and energy. it is these qualities, along with the con-
shows commitment and passion for aquatics, by providing a quality and enjoyable experience to their members - through developing innovative ways to grow and improve the club, not to mention by being part of a wider Club Network.”. Flitwick Dolphins fulfilled all the requirements and further demonstrated the club’s passion, enthusiasm and energy towards continually working to develop the club, maintaining inclusivity, identifying talent and helping everyone work towards their swimming goals. The club were also able to demonstrate that they are committed to developing the talent of all its members through training and competition as well as promoting a love of swimming. This is continued through with parents, vol-
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DECEMBER 2017 MID BEDS BULLETIN — 23
FDSC Club Championships 2017 by James Handler Press Officer and Club Captain
THE Flitwick Dolphins Club Championships this year saw another hugely successful event held by our club. Beginning on the 8th September with the Female 400m individual Medley and Male 1500m Freestyle, it became clear that all of the swimmers’ training leading up to the Championships had paid off. Most exciting however, are always the main weekend sessions held at Flitwick Leisure Centre. This year, the weekend sessions were held on the 16th-17th September, and 30th September - 1st october. Smiles were seen on everyone’s faces as the 100m freestyle signaled the start of the weekend
sessions. The most pleasing aspect of the whole event, is certainly seeing all of the squads interacting and socialising together on poolside. This is an atmosphere that really is central to the overall positivity of The Dolphins’ Championships each year. Everyone swam incredibly well over all of the events, and a huge congratulations must go to everyone who achieved a new Personal Best, or any medals! our Championships are a great opportunity to improve times, and therefore hopefully qualify for more of the various open meets throughout the year. Flitwick Dolphins swimmers certainly demonstrated this during the Championships, due to swimmers across all of the squads consistently improving their times. Finally, on behalf of everyone at the
MASTERS’ AUTUMN NEWS East Region Masters – Newmarket – September 2017
The clash with the club championships this year meant a smaller team and with most swimmers giving up swims in the final session in order to get back to Flitwick to help or swim at the club champs. None the less the team of six including two rookies to Masters swimming (Hayden Davies and Lauren Murphy) as well as Claudia Grant-Dawson, alistair Shaw, ian Murray and Liz Woolner managed one team bronze, six golds, four silver and four bronze achieving four County records and one East Region record . ian Murray gained first place in the 400 meter freestyle as well as first place in the 50 backstroke with the time of 5.24.30 and 38.72 respectively. alistair Shaw achieved Bedfordshire record for the 200 breaststroke gaining a silver medal with a time of 2.52.53 wit h a bronze medal for the 100 individual medley. Liz Woolner had an amazing swim meet with three first-place gold medals and an East region time for the 100 individual medley of 1.17.15. The other team members consisting of Lauren Murphy,
Claudia Grant Dawson and Hayden Davies all achieved medals, Lauren gaining a bronze and a silver, Claudia achieving one gold and one bronze and Hayden winning bronze and silver. The relay team consisting of Liz, Lauren, alistair and Hayden swam to a bronze victory.
More Master News – October 2017
Two of the clubs masters swimmers ian Murray and Liz Woolner spent three days competing in the Swim England Masters Swimming Championships in Sheffield held from the 27th, 28th and 29th october 2017. ian started the medal collection on Friday morning with a silver in the 1500 free in an East Region record time. He also finished it with a silver in the 800 free on Sunday afternoon in a Bedfordshire record. in between Liz won three gold medals (50 & 100 fly and 50 free) and three silvers (100 free, 100 iM and 50 back - missing gold in this one by just 0.01s). With the exception of the 100 fly, these were all swum in East Region record times. Liz was frustrated to miss the 50 fly British record by 0.02s but very
club: a huge well done to anyone who swam competitively for the first time at this year’s Club Championships. also, thank you to all of the technical and nontechnical volunteers who gave up their time to ensure that the Club Championships could go ahead smoothly. Flitwick Dolphins Club Championships 2017 was yet again an event enjoyed by all, and everyone at the club will certainly be very much looking forward to next year’s. We can now look forward to the Presentation night that will take place on the 20th January 2018. The club would like to thank all the management and staff at the Flitwick Leisure Centre for all their assistance in making the championships run so smoothly.
happy to go under 29s for 50 free for the first time ever in her life. Congratulations to our brilliant Masters Squad as they continue to achieve personal best times, medals and county and regional records.
Arena League Round 1 – Pingles Leisure Centre, Nuneaton
This year’s arena League on the 14th october was another hugely memorable event for the whole of FDSC. an ecstatic atmosphere, combined with excellent swimming and the best team morale on the night are only a few of the qualities that all of our swimmers displayed. Right from the start of the first event, it became clear that the Flitwick Dolphins swimmers were performing to the best of their abilities – with Georgie Curtis coming 1st in the Ladies 200M iM. To continue with this extremely high standard of swimming: a further 11 first places were achieved, 11 second places and five third places. These results show just how well all of our swimmers did in Round 1! on a personal level, 13 PB times were achieved during the event at Pingles Leisure Centre. These swimmers should be extremely proud of themselves, as despite the p ressure to swim as part of a team, they still displayed
an ability to improve their own times. Club Captain James Handler awarded ‘swimmers of the event’ to Tyler Watson and Georgie Curtis, who did an excellent job and were a pleasure to watch swim. all of these fantastic achievements all contribute to the 1st place that Flitwick Dolphins SC was awarded at the end of the first round. Everyone who competed at this event should be extremely proud to have been a participant in such a successful event for the club! The team consisted of Carl Halford, Melissa Dolby, Thomas allen, Francesca Baber, Ruby Blackmore, Georgie Curtis, George Hart, Billy Cutler, Tyler Watson, Mari Cutler, Sophie Fowler, olivia Fowler, Rebecca Grogan, autumn Handscombe, Lauren Young, Mikolaj Leski, adam Thompson, Joe Vesztrocy, Tom Malia, Giselle Martin, James McFarland, Eddy McFarland, Ben Rayner, Eloisa Miller, Jake Hickmott, Chris Murphy, Callum Runchman, Max Thomas, imogen Thompson, Lilli Thompson, Paige Walker, Maddie Phillips. adam Holmes, isaac Moon with James Handler attending as Club Captain and assisting the team manager and coaches, Nigel, Judy and Louise.
24 — MID BEDS BULLETIN DECEMBER 2017
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Looking back…
The Westoning Fire of 1976 NE of the most serious incidents of 1976 occurred in Westoning, Bedfordshire on 11th September. At 7.10am, an articulated Texaco petrol tanker skidded on the road as it entered the village and overturned. Chief Constable, Mr Armstrong reported: “Petrol then escaped from the tanker and a serious fire ensued, completely destroying a bakery, butcher’s shop, the village post office and six houses. “Fortunately even the tanker driver scrambled clear and there was no loss of life, although the total amount of damage was estimated at £200,000.” Eyewitness accounts state that petrol seeped into the surface water drainage system and cast
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iron inspection covers were blown into the air when the fire spread and ignited the petrol vapour in the drains. Twenty one people were made homeless and over a hundred people had to be evacuated. ‘The Bedfordshire Times’ praised the emergency services for their prompt and efficient response: “Up to sixty fire fighters were quickly into action pouring high density foam on the burning tanker whilst the police sealed off the road and evacuated villagers from nearby houses. “How was no one killed? “Part of the reason may be the speed and efficiency of the emergency services – the villagers were full of praise for the fire brigade and the police and said they did a marvellous job.”
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DECEMBER 2017 MID BEDS BULLETIN — 25
DECEMBER IN THE GARDEN – by Milton Ernest Garden Centre
Christmas presents for gardening friends and family
T Christmas what presents should we choose for our green fingered family and friends? If it must be plants for instant colour a decorative container planted with a selection of seasonal plants is a welcome present. Primroses, Cyclamen, Pansies, little daffodils and hyacinths together with evergreen foliage plants make excellent compositions. All containers should have holes in the base to allow water to drain away preventing the soil becoming waterlogged. Olive and Bay Trees trained as mini standards make lovely specimen plants to grow in tubs on the sunny patio or beside the front door. These are popular with any gardener who also likes to cook for the mediterranean flavours they add to special dishes. You can buy these already planted in pots or with the roots decoratively wrapped in hessian and a red bow. Box plants trained as standards, pyramids or more complex shapes are also great as specimen container plants. Holly is another evergreen plant that trains well as a small standard tree. It can be trimmed with topiary shears, another good present, but only prune after the berries have gone in late winter. Silver and Gold van Tol have variegated leaves and produce lots of berries. They have smooth leaves so no fear of being attacked when pruning as with prickly forms like Ilex Blue Angel. Heritage fruit trees are apple trees from our forgotten past. Planting these is a way of preserving varieties which are no longer grown commercially. They have wonderful
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names like Apple Irish Peach, Lemon Pippin, Cornish Gillflower, Bakers Delicious and Chivers Delight with perfumes of peach, citrus, pineapple, apricot and cherry. Modern and traditional varieties of plums can now be grafted onto the new dwarfing rootstock KRINSK. Plum Victoria, Opal, Majorie Seedling and Oullins Golden Gage can now be grown in small gardens and patio tubs because of the dwarf habit. Evergreen flowering plants are welcome additions in any garden. Rhododendron Christmas Cheer is a great plant for a shady patio. It has soft pink bell shaped flowers in January. Christmas Box Sarcoccoca Humulus is a small evergreen with white beautifully scented flowers during January and February. Plant it in a container beside the front door for a delightful perfume every time you come home. Daphne Eternal Fragrance and Pink Fragrance are choice plants. The strongly perfumed flowers from April to September are a joy in any garden. Roses are the basis of all gardens but some varieties like Lovestruck the new rose of 2018 has soft
cherry red scented blooms and is a MUST present.
A real Sussex Garden Trug that is hand made by artisan craftsman is not cheap but a wonderful present mine is still going strong after 30 years. We already highlighted Topiary Shears for trimming trained topiary plants but a good pair of secateurs is also a great present. Always buy red handled secateurs which can easily be found when put down in the garden. Felco is the expensive Rolls Royce brand for which replacement parts are available but a new kid on the block is Darlec. These tools are quality, moderately priced and definitely worth considering. A Terracotta Herb or Strawberry Pot is something a gardener
probably wouldn’t treat themselves to or one of the Vintage Pots inspired to support the Honeypot Children’s Charity. Fashion conscious Mothers would love to receive the coordinated Garden Kneeling Pads, Gloves
and Garden Cloggs from Briers while Dad would make good use of a portable Potting Bench or sturdy Haws Watering Can.
If nothing here takes your fancy and as many gardeners are so discerning a New Garden Gift Smart Card can be bought for any value. Whatever you choose Happy Shopping this Christmas.
26 — MID BEDS BULLETIN DECEMBER 2017
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out & about music a
The Best of Wham Bedford Corn Exchange
a ‘Fantastic’ new show featuring the best of George, andrew, Pepsi and Shirlie with sensational vocals, choreography, costumes and an awesome live band. Can it really be 37 years since George Michael and andrew Ridgeley formed one of the most enduring pop groups of the 80s? in four short years WHaM! sold more than 28 million records, topping the charts with three albums, four
8pm Saturday January 13
number one singles and eleven top ten hits. They featured in the Live aid concert of 1985 and were the first western pop group to ever tour in China. Their impact and influence on the 80s era and music today really cannot be over emphasised. The Best of WHaM! Show includes all those hits, a few B side favourites and a couple of early George Michael bonus songs. This fun-loving, vibrant, megamix tribute to the pop sensation of the 80s will be loved by ‘Young Guns’ of all ages, so come along to the ‘Club Tropicana’ (*sorry, Drinks not free!)
THE PaD PRESENTS
Alexis Taylor (Hot Chip) & Green Gartside (Scritti Politti) Bedford Esquires Sunday 10th December
a coup for us here at Bedford Esquires, with two Pad Presents favourites coming to Bedford for a very special performance together. Expect a real sense of occasion as two extraordinary voices from the realm of UK music royalty are
brought together for this rare live outing. Green Gartside’s band, Scritti Politti, combined punk’s raw energy with gritty experimental sounds and strident melodic pop. alexis Taylor fronts acclaimed synth-pop outfit, Hot Chip. His solo work consists of stripped-back, deeply personal piano-driven melancholia. one of merely a handful of performances, this double bill features top-drawer musicianship, exquisite vocals and genuine warmth between the artists. Tickets www.thepadpresents.com
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the grove theatre
DECEMBER 2017 MID BEDS BULLETIN — 27
Box Office: 01582 60 20 80 (opt 7) Book Online: www.grovetheatre.co.uk Call Me, Faithful, King of Wishful Thinking and Don’t Look Down. Go West have played live around the world continuously since their inception and have truly earned their reputation as an outstanding and exciting live act.
Sleeping Beauty Friday 8 December 2017 – Tuesday 2 January 2018
Grove Theatre, Dunstable was recently visited by new pantomime producers Evolution Productions, along with the fantastic cast of stars set to be entertaining you this panto season, in a spell-binding and breathtaking adaptation of Sleeping Beauty! Gathering in the place they will call home this December, John Partridge (Eastenders), Sally Lindsay (Coronation Street), Rebecca Keatley (CBeebies), ian Jones (comedian), Will Kenning (director and actor) and Jemma Carlisle (actress) met each other for the first time and revealed a naturally exciting group dynamic that can only make for a fabulous production. Prepare yourselves for flamboyancy, captivating drama and endless humour with this cast. it’s fair to say excitement is building for this year’s pantomime, with not only a star-studded cast of enthusiastic performers, but the promise of lots of audience participation, lavish sets and stunning special effects. You may have heard talk of a fire-breathing dragon which is sure to stun kids and big kids alike. There will be plenty of chance to cheer the heroes of the story, boo the evil Carabosse, laugh at Jangles’ jokes and most importantly, experience the biggest and most spectacular pantomime that Grove Theatre has seen to date!
The Snow Queen Saturday 20 January 7.30pm
Join Ballet Theatre UK in their beautiful re-telling of Hans Christian andersen’s classic fairytale ballet, The Snow Queen, as they glide onto the Grove Theatre, Dunstable stage on Saturday 20 January at 7.30pm. This spectacular production follows the story of Gerda and her quest to find her friend Kay, whom the Snow Queen has placed under an evil spell. Gerda’s fantastic adventure takes her on a journey across the frozen north where she encounters a band of gypsy’s, enchanted reindeer and a mysterious and reclusive Lapland woman. Gerda is told by the mysterious woman to continue travelling north, where she will find Kay and the Snow Queen’s Palace of ice. only Gerda’s love for Kay can release him from the spell and break the Snow Queen’s curse of eternal winter. Ballet Theatre UK’s renowned
Nathan Carter He is the hottest property on the irish music scene, performing with his band to over 400,000 people in the past year, and now Nathan Carter is about to embark on a mini UK tour taking in ten dates throughout England, including Grove Theatre, Dunstable on Friday 2 February at 7.30pm. The Nathan Carter story is a remarkable one, and the story is still being written… Nathan has become the singing sensation of the new century. a fresh faced young man who has now captivated audiences all over ireland, The UK and beyond since he burst on to the scene in 2009. Now less than a handful of years later Nathan is a household name, with fans of all ages flocking to see him and his superb six piece band at dances and concerts. Nathan Carter was born in Liverpool on 28 May 1990 into a Liverpool family with strong irish roots. Like so many in the City, Nathan`s family held firm their irish connections. Nathan has so far recorded six albums, two DVDs and a host of singles, but his first love is to perform on stage, and those shows, as audiences throughout the UK are about to experience are extra special. For the first time in many years Nathan’s show is the first “irish” act touring to do it big, a superb live sound, a stage set, light show, that extra effort, that extra mile that makes the Nathan Carter show different. Nathan was asked to support Garth Brooks at Croke Park in Dublin at two of his five sell out shows planned for July, sadly the shows were cancelled but the fact that it was Brooks himself who asked for Nathan to be his guest was a real testament to the popularity of the modest young man throughout the world. Now, back on a live tour; Nathan and his six man band perform a great variety of country, irish, pop and ballads - music for everyone of all ages. Nathan is an expert accordion player so you can expect a bit of hand-clapping, foot-tapping hooley. This friendly and good looking young man will perform a superbly entertaining show that will make you want to see him again.
Friday 2 February 7.30pm
company of international dancers, beautiful costumes and glittering stage sets combine to create a magnificent spectacle, all set to a glorious and magical score.
Real Diamond by Request Neil Diamond is now in his 50th year as a singer-songwriter superstar. one of the world’s best-selling artists of all time, he has sold over 135 million records worldwide since the start of his career in the 1960s and continues to inspire singersongwriters today. John Hylton is one such artist who has spent 25 years as a professional Diamond tribute artist; reviving his music and lyrics in uncanny style. You can determine the Neil Diamond classics that are played at this show! Simply deliver a sealed envelope to Grove Theatre Box office with that special request,
Friday 26 January 7.30pm
prior to the show day, with your seat number and name included, as well as why it is your special song.
Go West Saturday 27 January 7.30pm
Stay Faithful in legendary 80s tunes and you will be treated, as Entertainers proudly presents, legendary 80s icons Go West This Brit award winning band was formed in 1982 by Peter Cox and Richard Drummie, who went on to have huge commercial success and established themselves as one of the most successful singer/songwriter duos of the 80s. Six albums and 20 million sales later, Go West are stronger than ever. They have enjoyed numerous chart singles worldwide, notably King of Wishful Thinking, the opening song in the hugely successful film Pretty Woman. Performing all of their greatest hits including: We Close our Eyes,
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TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Caritas Harmony Choir Presents
A CHRISTMAS GALA CONCERT 6pm Sunday 10 December 2017 St Mary’s R.C. Church West Street, Dunstable, LU6 1NY This concert is given in support of The Dunstable Mayor’s Charities for 2017-2018 Adults £10 at GET TICKETS www.caritasharmony.co.uk or from Jackie Howe on 01582 599520 Refreshments available from 5pm
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
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Local Swedish comic becomes children’s author
if you are follower of the local stand-up comedy circuit you will surely have come across olaf Falafel. He has performed at Castle Comedy both Biggleswade and Bedford, The Quarry Theatre, Bedfringe and also for the past four years at the Edinburgh Fringe. He has now showcased his undoubted talent by authoring a series of children’s books. The side-splitting festive follow-up to old MacDonald Heard a Parp, from hilarious picture book superstar, olaf Falafel. “Father Christmas heard a parp… E-i-E-i-o!” Father Christmas is getting ready to deliver the presents – but he keeps getting distracted by some VERY rude noises! Who keeps PaRPiNG?! Could such a big noise actually be coming from someone rather small…? More windy fun is in store in this brilliant picture book by the sensational olaf Falafel. Featuring helpful do-it-yourself instructions so you can parp along to your heart’s content and drive your family nuts during the holidays, it’s set to be the ultimate stocking filler for Christmas 2017! Fans of The Dinosaur That Pooped series will love this tongue-in-cheek Christmas tale. Perfect for ages 4 and up. Picture books don’t come much sillier than this, or much more pleasing to the young: wherever Father Christmas goes, he hears a parp – E-i-E-i-o. Whether it’s from a robin (here a pffrrp there a pffrrp), from an elf (with a pwp pwp here and pwp pwp there) or from the carol singers (everywhere a bwwb bwwb), you’ll have to join in and there are invaluable detailed instruction on how to make the different parp sounds. The pictures will make everyone laugh too and this is just lots of fun. one for everyone to sing along with while preparing the sprouts. available at good bookstores, larger Sainsburys and amazon.
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TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– MiD BEDS.FLoWER CLUB CHRISTMAS CAROL 7.45pm Thursday 14th december CONCERTS
Kempston Musical Society, ouse Valley Singers and the Bedford Hospital Choir, together with invited soloists, will be performing on Saturday 9th december St. Peter’s Church de Parys Avenue, Bedford. The concert will start at 7.30pm. The concert is in aid of Bedford Hospital – the Maternity Unit is in desperate need of a Jaundice Machine, which helps detect jaundice in babies, enabling the nurses to treat pregnant mothers before they give birth. Tickets £9.00 adults, £6.00 students and over 60’s and £3.00 children and will include a mince pie and a hot or cold drink Tickets will not be available at the door, but need to be ordered by email at MTHRoSSELL@aoL.CoM. Tickets are already selling fast, so please email as soon as possible with your order. Bedford Hospital is delighted that the choirs are generously supporting the Friends of Bedford Hospital again. Last year’s concert was truly enjoyable and the generosity of the audience allowed the hospital to buy three ventilators, raising in all about £2,300. also, Kempston Musical Society, together with Goldington Green academy School Choir, will be performing a selection of
CHRISTMAS CAROLS AND FESTIVE MUSIC
Saturday 16th december at Kempston east Methodist Church. The concert will start at 7.30pm. and tickets £7.50 adults and £2.00 children on the door. Both concerts are guaranteed to get you in the mood for Christmas. For more information please call 01234 781010 or email prestissimo@btinternet.com. BEDFoRD LoCaL GRoUP oF THE WiLDLiFE TRUST Wednesday 13th december 2017 Meeting 7.15 for 7.30 pm
–––––––––––––––––––––––– ‘Highlights of Namibia’
an illustrated talk by Marion Hession Priory Methodist Church hall, Newnham Avenue Bedford MK41 9QJ. Plenty parking available all welcome, no charge but voluntary contributions are appreciated. Further details available under Events on www.wildlifebcn.org or at 01234 266057 BEDFoRD aRCHiTECTURaL, aRCHaEoLoGiCaL, & LoCaL HiSToRY SoCiETY 7.30pm Wednesday 13th december illustrated talk
–––––––––––––––––––––––– ‘A Bookless Town - Bedford’s Libraries (1700-2017)’
Bob Ricketts (President, BaaLHS) Putnoe heights Church & Community Centre Bedford MK41 8eB Non-members welcome - £3:00 entry Enquiries (01234) 365095 www.baalhs.org.uk
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Flitwick Village hall.
followed by Practical Xmas workshop and buffet Visitors £7.00 More information and to book contact Marion Tucker tel. 01234 742396
A.G.M.
THE FRiENDS oF ST MaRY’S CHURCH MaULDEN present
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BEDFORD TOWN CONCERT BRASS BAND 7.30pm Saturday 2 december Tickets are £10 including first glass of wine. There will be an excellent raffle and you will be entertained with songs from films, musicals and popular band tunes - the second half of the evening songs to get everyone in the Christmas spirit - including audience participation! We are a registered charity who maintain the fabric of this beautiful building (Reg. No. 296924)
Do come and join us for a great way to begin your Christmas season. Ring 01525 840200 or 01525 403551 or email: wilsons_64@btinternet.com. BEDFoRDSHiRE FaMiLY HiSToRY SoCiETY Drama Hall, Mark Rutherford School Wentworth Drive, Bedford MK41 8PX
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7.15pm Friday 1st december interested in Family History?
‘The Evil Sheriff of Bedford’ by amanda Goody Members free, visitors £1.
7.15pm Friday 12th January 2018 Bedfordshire Family History Society interested in Family History? Then come along to the next monthly talk on
‘Letters from the Front’ by Margaret Butt Members free, visitors £1. www.bfhs.org.uk
ST aNDREW’S CHURCH aMPTHiLL
–––––––––––––––––––––––– CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL
Sat 2 dec 10am – 4:30pm Sun 3 dec 11am – 4:30pm Entrance £2.50 (under 14’s free) Sat 2 dec 7:30pm Tickets £10 from: Pastiche gift shop, Church Street or Margaret Wilson 01525 750296 mewilson@ntlworld.com
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
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FLOOTES Free flowing Prosecco Performance —— T W O H O U R R U N N I N G T I M E —— THE MAIN ACT Brut Prosecco The star performer on stage throughout, with characteristic creamy lemon citrus, nuance of nashi pear, intense brightness and some pepper and spice THE OVERTURE Arancini Rice Ball Salmon Gravlax/Dill Mayo Tomato and Parma Ham Bruschetta our own Lincolnshire Sausage Roll Beef & Horseradish creme fraiche Roll Bang Bang Chicken THE INTERMISSION Limoncello Sorbet THE FINALE Mini white chocolate muffms Admission £37.50 per person Pre-booked ticketing a must. Performances 12 to 8 daily Call now (01525) 290042 or email info@flootes.com 18 Market Place, Woburn MK17 9PZ
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
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