BULLETIN AMPTHILL•FLITWICK•WESTONING•HARLINGTON•TODDINGTON
Ampthill lights switch on – see page 6
GAS SUPPLY BACK ON IN AMPTHILL MORE than 6,000 homes in the Ampthill area have finally had their gas reconnected after a week without any supply. The good news is the residents will receive compensation. On Tuesday (November 15) a building contractor’s piledriver hit a gas main.
Bedfordshire Fire Brigade initially attended but as there was no immediate danger the matter was passed onto the National Grid, who put a Zellweger gas detector in use.
The incident resulted in a loss of gas supply to 6,000 homes and businesses in Ampthill, Maulden, and Clophilll. Engineers worked to restore the gas supply but first needed to visit every affected property and switch the gas supply off at the meter. Engineers first turned off supplies off in Clophill and Maulden and then set to work in Ampthill on Wednesday afternoon. They asked if homeowners could ensure someone could be at home to let them in. Once the repair was made and gas back in the mains, a second visit was made to turn on the supply to each property and make sure it was flowing safely. National Grid liaised with the local authority to ensure elderly and other vulnerable residents are being identified and cared for. An incident room was set up
TWO VISITS
in Maulden Village Hall where people were able find out more information. Electricity distribution company UKPN also appealed to people to avoid using their own electric heaters continuously to prevent the local electricity network from overloading. A spokesman said: “We’d like to thank the local community for their patience and understanding throughout this incident. We’re also very grateful to the council, other agencies, volunteers and all those who have worked with us during the operation to restore gas supplies. “A very small number remain to be reconnected where the company haven’t been able to get access to turn supplies back on. “Engineers have left contact cards at these properties and these residents can call us on 0845 835 1111 to arrange for their gas supply to be turned back on.”
Those households who are to receive compensation are being asked to donate part of it to help the homeless this Christmas go to: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/NoGas
National Grid sent representatives to Ampthill Christmas Lights switch-on to answer residents’ questions – good move.
DECEMBER 2016
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PETER GETS A TRIM
See page 3
2 — MID BEDS BULLETIN DECEMBER 2016
Monthly update from the Police and Crime Commissioner by Kathryn Holloway
RELEVANT DEBATE
EVENTs this autumn have shown just how great a challenge Bedfordshire Police face. There have been arrests under Counter Terror laws in Luton. The Force fielded 100 officers and special Constables to respond to disorder at Bedford Prison to secure the perimeter and reassure residents – going door-todoor to provide updates and advice, while the prison authorities brought the incident under control. Cross-over crime with London was highlighted in an operation by Metropolitan Police officers in Leagrave, seizing guns and ammunition. In one tragic, and thankfully extremely rare, case a 24-yearold man lost his life when a firearms officer used his weapon in an incident which is now being investigated by the police watchdog, the Independent Police Complaints Commission, as is a standard procedure in such circumstances. This was the most distressing outcome for absolutely every party involved and, as a police force cannot comment during such an investigation, no inference whatever should be taken from this. The timing of this operational policing demand on the Force could not be more relevant to a debate which is currently being held within the Home Office. The Government is in the process of determining Bedfordshire’s future slice of the funding cake while drawing up a new National Funding Formula for all 43 police forces in England and Wales. There will be winners and losers as a result of any changes but I am arguing that Bedfordshire’s crime challenges need to be considered urgently as the force is currently the second lowest funded in the country. This argument goes beyond politics; I have met with the Policing Minister Brandon Lewis alongside all six constituency MPs from across the county, irrespective of party, with our Chief Constable, Jon Boutcher. I have met him alone and with the Chief Finance Officer of our Force (who has a place on a key panel debating what a new formula should be) and the Acting ACC Jaqueline sebire who, as a former Borough Commander in London, could speak with authority of the similarities between the policing demand here but the discrepancy in the resources which are available locally to deal with such demand. Ultimately the formula will be decided above all our pay grades but you should be absolutely certain that all that could be being done is being done to put Bedfordshire’s case.
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View from
Bishop Richard
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Halloween Hoot at The Rufus Centre!
by Rt Revd Richard Atkinson Bishop of Bedford
COME AND WORSHIP
WHAT is your favourite Christmas Carol? ‘Away in a Manger’? ‘Hark the Herald Angels sing’? ‘While shepherds watched their flocks by night’? Or another of the well-loved carols that will be sung this Christmas? Carols, some of which have their origins back in medieval times and the singing of Christmas songs within the community, rather than within Church. Last Christmas, according to the Classic FM poll, ‘silent Night’ was our favourite carol. Written in 1818 by Joseph Mohr and set to music by his friend Franz Gruber, it only came into being because mice had eaten through the bellows of the organ at st Nicholas church in their small Austrian town of Oberndorf near salzburg and they couldn’t play the traditional Christmas music. Instead this new carol was played on the guitar and has been much loved since. My favourite carol is ‘In the Bleak Midwinter’, Christina Rossetti’s evocative verse, that was set to music by Gustav Holst. In particular, the final verse reminds us that Christmas is not just about our re-telling of the Christmas events, nor the praise of God, but also our response to the disclosure of God’s love for us in Jesus. What can I give him, Poor as I am? If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb; If I were a wise man, I would do my part; Yet what I can, I give him - Give my heart. Last Christmas two and a half million people attended church services, and that was just the Church of England! Many came to traditional Christmas services, including Midnight Mass and Nine Lessons and Carols. For others it was a crib service or more contemporary Christmas worship. All of them, across the different Christian traditions, times to pause amidst the commercialism of this season and to focus on the love of God present with us in the baby Jesus. This Christmas your local church once again offers you a warm welcome and invitation to sing carols and to hear the Christmas narrative. In the words of another much loved carol, ‘Angels from the Realms of Glory’: Come and worship, Come and worship; Worship Christ, the new-born King.
THINK pumpkin carving and Halloween-inspired games… Think The Monster Mash and spooky animals… We had all this and more going on during our Hoot of a Half Term at the Rufus Centre! The week began with a kitchen full of pumpkins donated by Priestley Farm in Flitwick. Apart from adding a splash of bright orange to the grey worktops, the pumpkins also provided loads of fun for the 60 children who came to our Halloween Fun Morning on 27th October. Thankfully Cllr Mrs Ann Lutley was available to help us prepare all 60 pumpkins ready for the children to work their magic later in the week! First up though was a Halloween Disco for 40 children during early evening on 25th October. Disco Factory UK hosted the session with non-stop games and fun. Children came dressed up in their favourite Halloween outfits complete with some amazing face paint and spectacular costumes! Half way through we stopped for a break where the children could relax whilst enjoying the food provided by the Rufus Centre Catering Team. Then it was back into the main hall for more fun with inflatable instruments that simply added yet more fun for the children! Fun Mornings are always popular in school holidays but it’s fair to say that none of them quite live up to the Halloween one each year. There was so much going on this time, from creating crafty ghosts to playing ‘tin can alley’ and pumpkin carving to meeting animals from Teaching Talons, The Animal Ambassadors.
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Beds model launches a charity calendar in aid of UK Veterans
LUNA, a commercial and glamour model from Bedford has launched her first calendar with proceeds going to ex-servicemen and women.
Luna, who has been published in Nuts, Bizarre and the Daily star has put her talents to good use in the production of a 2017 calendar with exclusive unseen images. The calendar features an exclusive set from Birmingham based photographer Paul Cotterill. Five pounds from every calendar sold will be donated to veterans in the UK who have fought in any battles on behalf of the armed forces. Luna says ‘ex-servicemen and women can suffer physical disabilities, mental health issues, post-traumatic stress disorder and homelessness. They fought and dedicated their lives to keep us safe. The proceeds from the calendar will go towards the services that help these heroes to readapt to life outside of the forces. It is unimaginable what some of these we will be helping have been through.’ The calendars are the result of a collaboration with The Calendar Company, a design and print agency who supply some of the UK’s biggest charities and
MID BEDS BULLETIN DECEMBER 2016 — 3
Raising money for Macmillan Nurses
businesses with professional calendars. Luna’s calendar is available to buy on her website www.lunathemodel.com/2017lunacalendar You may also recognise Luna from her work in 2014 representing Bedfordshire at the Crown and Glory beauty pageant. The fundraising pageant raised money for The Dean Puplett Appeal fighting Neuroblastoma Cancer.
The Friends of Ampthill’s Christmas Lights
THE winning tickets in The Friends of Ampthill’s Christmas Lights raffle for a whole day pass for five people at CenterParcs Woburn Forest, afternoon tea for two at the very popular vintage cafe Cakestand and crumb in the Kings Arms Yard, and a £25 voucher to be spent at the White Hart, Ampthill will be drawn by Father Christmas at 8 pm in the White Hart, Ampthill on Monday December 19th. Tickets cost 20p each or a book of five tickets for £1 and are available from The Ampthill Park Hub, Ampthill Town Council offices at 66 Dunstable street or by ringing 01525 403141.
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RAIsING money for worthwhile charities is nothing new for Peter Mead of Flitwick. Last month he had three and half years of hair growth cut off, raising nearly £500 for Macmillan Nurses. He had performed a similar stunt previously in Bedford a few years back. Peter a regular at the Blackbirds was joined by his many friends and supporters, when Karina and Jaime of Principles Hair Design gave him a multi-coloured Mohican style hair cut. The Blackbirds have a new
management team in Lisa and Gary Chard, who took over last month. The haircutting event came about when Gary was trimming some undergrowth in the garden and he made the suggestion to Peter, that he might like to let Gary give him a trim while he had the shears out! Then a more positive plan was hatched – to have the sponsored hair cut. Lisa and Gary have plans to make the Blackbirds a true ‘local’ again, so expect more charity events like this in the near future.
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The Bulletin series are independent magazines with no affiliation to any other organisation. © 2016 Rosetta Publishing Ltd. 30 Radwell Road, Milton Ernest MK44 1sH. Tel: 07894 935952 or 07724 905406. EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com ADVERTIsING: advertising@rosettapublishing.com Printed by: Mortons Print Limited. Newspaper House, Morton Way, Boston Road, Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 6JR.
4 — MID BEDS BULLETIN DECEMBER 2016
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Maria is ‘Carer of the Year’
Center Parcs Day Pass raffle raises £3,500 THANKs to the generosity of Center Parcs Woburn Forest, Mrs Kim Ash of Ampthill and her family will enjoy a fun filled and relaxing day at the Woburn Forest complex. Center Parcs, very kindly gave sue Ryder st John’s Hospice a Family Day Pass to raffle, to help raise funds for sue Ryder st John’s. Tickets were sold across Bedfordshire and raised £3,558 for the hospice. Lee Carpenter (Deputy General Manager at Center Parcs Woburn Forest) told us: “Center Parcs has a long and proud history of helping charities that make a difference to families across the UK. It is not just our responsibility but our passion to support organisations that support individuals and their families who are facing difficult times.” On being told of the amount raised shirley scotcher, Head of Fundraising at sue Ryder st John’s told us: “sadly we can’t change the destination for many of our patients, but with the support of
EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
Mrs Kim, Lee Carpenter and Mr Fred Ash
our local community and businesses within our community, we can change their journey. In 2014/15 we provided care and support to residents from 92 villages and towns across Bedfordshire. On behalf of our patients and their families, I would like to personally thank Center Parcs and all those individuals who purchased a ticket for supporting their local hospice. It costs £500 per day to fund a bed at sue Ryder st John’s,
so the £3,500 raised will cover the cost of one bed for one week. I would also like to take this opportunity to publicly thank the 300 plus volunteers, who freely give their time and talents, to help make sue Ryder st John’s a very special place for those who are near death and their families.” It costs over £2.8m p.a. to run sue Ryder st John’s; the vast majority of which, is donated by local residents and businesses.
A LUTON businesswoman who has launched a dementia café in town has won the Carer of the Year title at the Dunstable and Houghton Regis Business and Community Awards. Maria Collins, (pictured holding the trophy) who owns and runs the home care business, Home Instead Luton and Central
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Bedfordshire, has this year taken a dementia café concept into the community – by working in partnership with a local Catholic Parish and a music therapy organisation, called Music 24. Maria said: “Winning the Carer of the Year title means so much to me and to Home Instead. We were nominated by our clients and that to me is such a powerful endorsement of our companionship-style of caring. “Our caregivers visit our clients for around an hour at a time, building up relationships that are deeply valued by our elderly clients and their families.” Maria, who Chairs the Luton Dementia Action Alliance, has helped set up the Young@Heart dementia café, which is run by volunteers from Holy Family & st John’s Parish and takes place every Wednesday, at st John's Parish Centre, in sundon Park Road, from 2-4pm and is free to access. The café is now attended by around 50 people per week from a standing start and Maria believes it has proved the need for such services in the community. Young@Heart is a place where those with any form of dementia and their partners/carers can meet up for tea and cakes
and sing along to their favourite songs, or learn arts and crafts and generally mingle with like-minded people. Maria, whose company is based in Hitchin Road, Luton, said: “What drives us to be involved in this activity is a deeply held desire to change the face of ageing and to demonstrate that there is a different way of caring for people. “There is a great demand for this kind of dementia respite service in the community and it is an honour to be recognised by these awards for our contribution. “It has been an excellent year for Home Instead Luton and Central Bedfordshire and being a winner at this award night gives the whole team a boost.” –––––––––––––––
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Poplars plays host to another royal visit
POPLARs were in the company of yet more royalty when the Duchess of Bedford attended the AGM for the south Bedfordshire NsPCC on the 9th November. The AGM, attended also by the Mayor of Luton, Tahir Khan, was held in the Garden Centre’s Learning Zone, which at the moment is nestled in amongst their wonderful Christmas displays. The delegates were treated to tea and coffee and some delicious warm pastries before the AGM got underway.
The NsPCC is a charity very close to the heart of Poplars and they take great pleasure each year in donating £1 from every Grotto admission to this very worthwhile charity. The lovely ladies from the Toddington branch of the NsPCC also hold their Christmas Tombola each year at the Garden
Centre, which this year will be held on saturday 10th and sunday 11th of December. Christmas is well and truly underway at Poplars. santa is in his Grotto every weekend until Christmas plus some additional opening hours during the week leading up to Christmas. To guarantee your place, you can now book for the Grotto at Poplars online by visiting their website www.poplars.co.uk and follow the link. Tickets are available to purchase in store for same day visits but these are subject to availability. There is also a chance to ‘Mix & Mingle’ with the man himself over breakfast in the Restaurant@Poplars every saturday morning between 9am10am right up until Christmas.
Don’t worry if you’re not an early bird because one of his Elves will be in the Restaurant every saturday and sunday afternoon from 2pm to help you ‘Decorate a Christmas Biscuit’. If all that doesn’t get you in the festive spirit, then a visit to see ‘Pudding & sprout’ two of his real life Reindeer is sure to fill you with Christmas cheer. With so much going on at Poplars this Christmas, you’d be ‘crackers’ to miss it. To find out all the details of what’s happening at Poplars this Christmas, ring the Garden Centre on 01525 872017 or find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/poplarsgc Poplars would like to wish all the readers of Mid Beds Bulletin a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year. –––––––––––––––
ELVES WILL BE THERE
BT plans to remove public payphones
DO we still need public payphones or does mobile technology mean they have had their day? This is the question that people are being invited to answer, following BT’s announcement that it’s proposing to remove 80 of the remaining 120 public payphones across Central Bedfordshire that are no longer regularly used. The Council will be co-ordinating the official response to BT, following a public consultation for residents to comment on the Council’s First Decision on whether it agrees or objects to the removal of each of the 80 payphones identified by BT as no longer necessary. The consultation will run until Thursday 15 December. You’ll find more information and a list of the proposed payphones to be removed on the website consultation page.
MID BEDS BULLETIN DECEMBER 2016 — 5
Beds police are crushing crime SINCE the relaunch of Bedfordshire Police’s Operation Meteor in January 2016, there have been 12 arrests and 48 bikes seized. The force have been operating a dedicated email account, opmeteorinbox@ bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk for the public to submit information about anti social behaviour. They have received over 1,800 emails from the public since the beginning of the year. Last month the police held a day of action to highlight their crack-down on crime and anti social behaviour, the
Mayors of Dunstable and Houghton Regis attended and witnessed the crushing of the seized bikes. The police are also pleased with the results of Operation Sentinel which has resulted in several drug related arrests.
GREAT SUCCESS Chief Inspector Sean Quinn, the lead for Op Sentinel, said: “Today was a great success for both Op Sentinel and Op Meteor, we managed to secure an arrest seize a substantial amount of drugs as well as crush some of the bikes which
have been causing a danger and nuisance to residents in the county. “Days of action like this one show that Bedfordshire Police will not tolerate dangerous and anti-social behaviour. We want to send a strong message of warning to nuisance bikers – if you are out there we will find you and we will catch you. “We will be carrying out intelligenceled days of action like this one regularly to reassure the people of Bedfordshire and make offenders aware that they will not get away with posing a danger to our communities.”
6 — MID BEDS BULLETIN DECEMBER 2016
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Ampthill Christmas Lights Switch-On
T
HE Christmas lights went on in Ampthill on Sunday November 20th, with the weather staying fine but chilly. Concerns about power supply issues meant they only went on for a short time, however this is all now resolved – hopefully. Many people joined in the fun in the town centre. Along with the fun fair there were a variety charitable stalls. Maurice Kachuk’s Snow White panto was there to provide entertainment with Snow White herself singing and the cast danced for the enjoyment of proud parents and the crowd. Local musicians also added to the festive atmosphere. National Grid had sent representatives to help residents with any questions they had about the gas supply situation.
Silver Award for Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service have been recognised with a Silver Award for the support that it has given to defence personnel in this year’s national Employment Recognition Scheme. The scheme was launched in 2014 for employers who recognise the wider principles of the Armed Forces Covenant and that pledge demonstrate or advocate support to Defence and the Armed Forces Community. It encompasses bronze, silver and gold awards. The Silver Awards are awarded on a regional basis. Paul Fuller CBE, Chief Fire Officer at Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service was delighted to accept the award at
Emmanuel College, Cambridge, he said: “We are extremely honoured to receive a Silver Award for our work over the years in the East Anglia region. “The Service has always had close ties with the military and many of our serving officers and staff started their careers with one of the branches of the armed services. “We share a common set of values which enables our teams to face up to the daily challenge of protecting our communities from risks such as fires and flooding and responding swiftly in considered but effective ways. We are delighted to be recognised as an employer who places very high values on our military, both serving and when they return to civilian life.”
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MID BEDS BULLETIN DECEMBER 2016 — 7
8 — MID BEDS BULLETIN DECEMBER 2016
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Oscar-themed event celebrates Looked-After Firefighters save woman from bungalow fire Children’s Achievements Awards
YOUNG guests enjoyed a dazzling time at this year’s Central Bedfordshire LookedAfter Children and Care Leavers Achievement Awards. More than 110 young people walked up the red carpet at the Oscars-themed event held at the council’s Priory House headquarters in October. staff and youngsters dressed up in their finest outfits for the evening and managers from the corporate parenting service getting into the spirit and serving drinks to guests on arrival. The awards evening is organised by members of the Children in Care Council and CiCC Ambassadors, who choose the food, entertainment and venue decorations and are consulted on the actual agenda for the evening.
Thanks to a host of generous donations, sponsorship and people pledging their time and talents for free the young guests were able to enjoy entertainment including local petting pony Pearl, top-of-the-range custom car ‘The Crazy Green Machine’, a classic car and a glitter tattooist. All the attendees were acknowledged for achievements significant to them. so, that could include anything from educational achievements to developing independence skills. Foster carers, residential units, social workers, and designated looked-after children’s teachers are encouraged to nominate youngsters for any achievement. There were a number of outstanding achievement awards which were sponsored by the University Of Bedfordshire Access Partnership Team. The Virtual school also presented awards to outstanding educational achievements and Young People of the Year Awards. Among the winners were Kayleigh stewart and Louise Harker. Louise was awarded Young Person of the Year for showing great resilience and maturity whilst moving away from home. The audience heard how she has contributed positively to her new home by engaging in activities and with her peers and made great progress during what has been a challenging year personally. Meanwhile Kayleigh was rewarded for facing challenges with determination and never giving up, making significant improvements to her independence and budgeting skills and developing new skills in the leaving care hub. Councillor Carole Hegley, Executive Member for social Care and Housing and lead member for Children’s services, was among those attending the event. she said: “What a brilliant evening. It was great to see so many young people there and to see them being rewarded for their achievements.
“I would like to thank everyone who gave up their time for the evening and also made a donation to the event which paid for the visit of pony Pearl from Bedfordshire Party Ponies, in Clophill. she was a real hit with the children – and even had a blue and pink rinse for the occasion.” Natasha Rowe, CiCC Ambassador, who sang at the event, said: “It was lovely to see all the young people dressed up and celebrating their achievements with their CBC family. Just seeing all the young people happy, dancing and being celebrated was great and I was proud to be part of that happiness.” Fellow CiCC Ambassador Emily smith added: “It was an amazing evening – everyone looked stunning and the atmosphere was great. It’s so lovely watching young people getting appreciated and receiving an award.”
THE COMBINED quick action of Bedfordshire Fire Fighters and a closed door averted a potential fatality at a serious fire on Tuesday 15th November in Houghton Regis. Fire crews from Dunstable and Toddington were called to the blaze at a terraced bungalow in Brentwood Close, Houghton Regis at 8.50pm. They were alerted by passers-by who noticed that the property was alight. Fire Fighters reached the property within six minutes and tackled the fire which resulted in significant fire and smoke damage. The crews discovered that there was a woman suffering from smoke inhalation, in the bedroom. The closed bedroom door had protected her from the As part of the topic, the children worst of the fire and smoke. Fire
Tool theft Children meet the local lady of politics warning to van drivers
BEDFORDsHIRE Police’s Crime Reduction Officer, Lesley Johnson has issued a warning to all commercial vehicle owners to increase the levels of security of their vehicles. This follows a huge increase in the number of tool thefts from vehicles last month. In most instances tool boxes were stolen from vans overnight. The best advice is to remove the tools if practicable and to make sure the vehicles are alarmed.
TO THE EDITOR: Just a note to say thank you very much for advertising our charity night at Harlington Village Hall, in the september edition of ‘Bulletin.’ I thought you might be interested to hear that the evening was a great success we raised a grand total of £4182.00 all of which will be going specifically to the Children's Unit at Keech Hospice in Luton. Phil Eccles Keech Hospice Fundraising
PUPILs at Lakeview school, Wixams had the opportunity to find out first hand about life in British politics when Nadine Dorries, MP for Mid Bedfordshire, visited the school recently. The Year 6 pupils are currently working on the topic ‘Fight for Your Rights!’ which has led the children to explore democracy, the development of a democratic society in England and to compare democracy in our country to other nations around the world. Meriel McDonnell, Assistant Headteacher at the school said: “We were delighted to welcome Nadine Dorries to the school as part of our topic. The children were very excited to meet her and talk to their local MP in person. They asked her questions about issues important to them including climate change, the democratic process and her experiences within Parliament. “It was a great opportunity for them to meet someone who works to meet the needs of the people she represents and to learn how people in the community can have their voice heard and truly make a difference. The visit has added a new dimension to their work." “It was a real pleasure to spend
time with the children at Lakeview school,” said Ms Dorries. “They were enthusiastic, engaged and asked some very good questions. I wish all the children and staff the very best and hope to come back and visit again soon.”
have also had the chance to stage their very own ‘election campaign’ and persuade fellow pupils to vote for them to become the very first Head Boy and Girl of Lakeview school.
Pupils speaks out against racism
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Fighters quickly rescued the casualty and handed her into the care of the Ambulance service who then took her to hospital where she is recovering. Group Commander Ade Yule said: “This was potentially a fatal situation as a woman was semiconscious in her bed due to smoke inhalation when the crew found her. “The closed door to the bedroom could have saved her. We advise making closing internal doors part of your home fire escape plan. Doing this may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Also install and check smoke alarms in your home.” The incident was closed at 9.58pm and an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire.
Chamber’s new identity
BEDFORDsHIRE Chamber of Commerce has just unveiled its new brand campaign to better represent the Chamber’s values and personality, as it aims to attract new members. The new brand identity and strapline – ‘Better Together’ – will feature on a new website, a new brochure and all forthcoming customer communications and was created by local creative consultancy Bonfire Creative Intelligence. The new identity illustrates how
businesses and the Chamber are ‘Better Together’ and centres on wellknown metaphorical partnerships to represent businesses working together and supporting each other. The team at Bonfire Creative Intelligence refined and strengthened the Chamber’s mission statement and created a new tone of voice and visual language to resonate with the modern business owner that will feature in more regular communication of the Chamber’s business support services.
Central Bedfordshire’s Youth Parliament members both spoke passionately in a House of Commons debate last month. Lily Thompson, a pupil at Stratton Upper School in Biggleswade, and Harry Dignum, from Cedars Upper School in Leighton Buzzard, joined 274 of their peers from across the UK for the parliamentary debate. The 11-18 year olds were debating the five leading topics from the Make Your Mark ballot before voting to decide which two should become the UK Youth Parliament’s priority campaigns for 2016. Votes at 16 was chosen as the national campaign while A Curriculum for Life was chosen as the priority campaign for England after five debates which were chaired by Speaker of the House of Commons,
the Rt Hon John Bercow MP. Harry spoke in support of A Curriculum for Life while Lily participated in the debate about Tackling Racism and Religious Discrimination. Both were captured on camera with the event screened on the BBC Parliament television channel. Lily said: “It was an amazing day and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I am passionate about tackling racism and religious discrimination and will do my best to raise awareness of the issue over my two-year term.” Harry said: “I had a great day and it was an amazing experience to speak in the House of Commons on an issue I am passionate about. I look forward to working on raising awareness and gaining support for A Curriculum for Life for young people.
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MID BEDS BULLETIN DECEMBER 2016 — 9
The Beast swoops in from up north to give Bedfordshire ‘top cover’
BEDFORDsHIRE’s Police and Crime Commissioner Kathryn Holloway joins the Force’s eye in the sky – the National Police Air service – on a tour of duty. When the public look up and see the distinctive royal blue and yellow bodywork of a police helicopter hovering over Bedfordshire they almost certainly assume it is the property of the Force and piloted and crewed by its own police team. In fact, air cover for policing, here and elsewhere is provided at national level by the National Police Air service (NPAs) from bases from Exeter to Newcastle, with Bedfordshire’s so-called ‘top cover’ launched from a discreet base in North Northamptonshire. All requests are fielded by West Yorkshire Force Control but the team are constantly listening for potential call-outs on the Talk Group radio system and are often good to go when the formal notification is received. The service is jointly funded by forces across the country with a separate charge raised with the force concerned for each arrival on scene, irrespective of how long the aircraft is needed for. Base Manager Tom Coyne explained: “We’ve been deployed to recent events in Bedford,
Luton and across the county from firearms incidents to looking for missing persons using our thermal imaging equipment.” The £5m helicopter the crew call ‘The Beast’, with camera and mapping equipment, can fly for 1 hour 45 minutes continuously by day and 15 minutes less at night, as Civil Aviation Authority regulations require sufficient fuel is carried to divert to a nearby airport after dark. It covers an area 50 miles from base in all direc-
tions. Weight is so finely calibrated, given the full load of fuel from its own 40,000 gallon supply on base, that I had to weighed before being cleared to board and certainly hope I am the lightest Police and Crime Commissioner they are asked to transport. Even a bird strike can affect the aircraft and the crew scan constantly for potential threats. Drones have not yet affected this team but lasers, used from the
ground, have been used to target the pilot and crew in the past creating obvious risks. Kathryn Holloway said: “I joined them on a perfect winter’s day but with the helicopter required to make constant adjustments in high winds as we tracked a nuisance motorcyclist for Leicester police and checked out a large fire in woodland to make sure it was part of forest control. Take it from me, it’s the only way to fly!”
Dashing around London in Monopoly challenge
GIRLGUIDING Bedfordshire celebrated their centenary with a reality Monopoly Challenge – the game was played on the biggest board of them all – London. To mark the 100 year anniversary of the Girlguiding senior section young women from across Bedfordshire took part in a dash around London to see who could be the team to win on the biggest Monopoly Board of them all. Devised by Moira Ledbetter, a Brownie Leader from Bedford, the game saw over 100 girls and young women from across the region take part in the event which was held in October.
The teams were given seven hours to complete their mission of reaching all the Monopoly stops across the capital, taking photos of the locations in order to ‘buy’ them. Time was of the essence as the teams raced to the locations to try and ensure they were there first to arrive in order to snap up the streets. Moira said: “It was a huge task to organise but we had an amazing weekend. The teams rose to the challenge whizzing around London and taking snaps of everything from a policeman to a small dog’. Moria added, ‘The HQ was
at Pax Lodge one of the five Girlguiding World Centres so it made the event even more special.” Emma Bowley said: “We had a brilliant time playing reality Monopoly. I’ve had so many opportunities thanks to the senior section such as traveling abroad
and becoming a Young Leader and this was a brilliant way to celebrate the 100th birthday.” The senior section enables girls and young women to be involved with Girlguiding in a flexible way, with each young woman choosing her own level of commitment
‘New Year New Start’ for Jordans Mill’s café
IT WILL definitely be a case of ‘New Year, New start’ for Jordans Mill in January 2017, as the visitor attraction’s popular Riverside Café will reopen following a short period of closure to allow for a redesign of the dining area and kitchen. The transformation is in response to customer feedback, and will result in an improved experience and a wider food offering including a larger range of lunchtime specials, extended breakfast and brunch menus, afternoon teas, and exciting themed menus. Rather than ordering food and drink at the tills, customers will be shown to a table where staff
will take their order, which will then be brought to their table. The food heritage attraction in Broom near Biggleswade opened in April 2013 and since then the Riverside Café has become a sought-after destination for fresh, seasonal food, and a great place to catch up over scones and tea.
Jordans Mill will close on Christmas Eve at 3pm for a period of approximately three weeks to allow the changes to take place. Bill Jordan, Trustee of Jordans Mill, said: “This change is very exciting for everyone here at Jordans Mill as not only will it
THREE WEEK CLOSURE
improve the customer experience, but it will also allow us to widen our food offering, and as a food heritage attraction this is very important to us. “We have always sought to use fresh seasonal ingredients in our dishes, and we have a strong commitment to using local food where possible, which will continue. “Food is at the heart of everything we do here at Jordans Mill, from showing how grains were once milled to produce flour, growing cereal crops and fruits and vegetables in the Mill Gardens, and creating dishes in the Riverside Café using our homegrown produce.
“We are extremely grateful for the support and custom we’ve received from all our visitors since we opened, and we are looking forward to this next exciting chapter for Jordans Mill when we reopen in January.” The Riverside Café will continue to welcome ‘walk-ins’ and will now also offer the opportunity to reserve tables. Customers are invited to monitor the Jordans Mill Facebook and Twitter channels and their website, www.jordansmill.com, for updates on the redesign and information on reopening. All of Jordans Mill including the Mill and Mill Gardens will be closed during the redesign.
Scouts earning their badges
BEAVER scouts (boys and girls aged six to eight) at Flitwick scout Group have recently been working towards their skills Challenge, Creative and My Faith badges. To gain these badges they have visited Flitwick Parish Church and were told the story of The Good samaritan by Rev Lucy Davis. The children were also given the opportunity to ask questions about the Church. They were keen to search for the kneeling cushion depicting the scout Group. They also found out about the importance of a healthy body. This included doing some exercises, making fruit kebabs and demonstrating how to clean their teeth. They were required to learn how to tie shoelaces and light a candle as part of the skills Challenge badge too. They’ve also made firework pictures, planted bulbs in Manor Park and had the opportunity to use lego bricks to construct a vehicle. As part of finding out more about Remembrance Day they visited Ampthill Park and learned about ’Tommy’s Footprints.’ The Cub scouts (boys and girls aged 8 to 10 ½) have been working towards their artist badge by making Rangoli pattern cards, drawing a ‘still life’ picture and a designing a poster about how to behave in the Countryside. They have also made and eaten Indian sweets as part of learning about Diwali. The scouts (boys and girls aged 10½ to 14) have been out and about at Milton Bryan camp site and in Flitwick Wood. Over 150 members of the Group attended the Town Remembrance Day parade and
service. scouts Ben schofield and Callum Flavell were both involved in the service with Ben reading and Callum helping Rev Lucy Davis during her address. scout Leader, Ben Peet said: “It was very humbling to see so many members of the Group paying their respects to people who gave their lives in the two world wars.” The Group have three camps planned for 2017. There is a Cub camp at Milton Bryan in May where the children will be building rafts, pond dipping, using the go karts and playing games in the outdoors. In June the whole Group will be camping at Phasels Wood. The planned activities includede pot holing, cresta run, climbing and the ice wall. In August the Cubs and scouts are spending a week at Walesby Forest in Newark where some of the activities include body boarding, swimming, kayaking and the high ropes course. Cub scout, Thomas Dowling said: “We do so many activities and games at Cubs. I really look forward to meeting my friends at Cubs and learning about things. I tell my friends at school about the great things we do at Cubs.” The Group were recent finalists in the category of raising the profile of the town in The Pride of Bedfordshire Awards. Lead volunteer Jonathan smith was delighted that the efforts of all the volunteers in the Group were recognised in this way. Young Leader Libby West said: ”I was very proud to collect the award on behalf of all members of the Group.” For further information about Flitwick scout Group, please visit www.flitwickscoutgroup.org.uk
10 — MID BEDS BULLETIN DECEMBER 2016
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Celebrating 1200 years of volunteering
FROM 18 to 80 you’re never too old to volunteer as a Bedfordshire Girlguide Leader. sunday 06th November saw the annual ‘Valuing our Volunteers’ awards ceremony held at Tilsworth Golf & Conference Centre, Tilsworth, Bedfordshire. This year the awards were in a number of categories, fromfive years’ service to a commendable 40 years service. The ladies honoured have, between them, given over 1200 years of volunteering to work with girls and young women from all across Bedfordshire. Edith Campbell, Debbie Docherty, and Mary Layzell from both units in Leighton Buzzard and Luton received their awards for 40 years service. Debbie said: “Girlguiding has become part of my life, being a member of the Guiding movement has given me so much over the past 40 years, fun, friendship,
and adventure.” Debbie added: “I am now very much looking forward to the next 40!”
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 such a fantastic organisation to be a part of.”
The ceremony was attended by Charles Whitbread High sheriff of Bedfordshire, Cllr David Bowater - Chairman of Central Beds Council, Cllr Dr Raja saleem - Deputy Mayor of Luton, Mrs Judith Howard Deputy Lieutenant, Julia Haig GG Anglia CEO and Carol Roberts GG Anglia Region President.
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Opportunities for young people
HAVE you ever thought about how your son and/or daughter could benefit from being involved in one of the uniformed organisations in Bedfordshire? Since being launched in October 2014, membership of uniformed organisations involved in Bedfordshire Youth United has increased. Young people have joined the ten uniformed organisations in the County to have fun, challenge and adventure, or to learn about leadership or team working, or they feel it will enhance a CV. Adult volunteer Nigel Taylor said: “Getting involved in any of the organisations will provide young people with lots of enjoyment. They will learn skills for life and they will make new friends. Some will use involvement with the Police Cadets, Fire and Rescue Cadets, Army Cadet Force or St John Ambulance as a stepping stone on their career path. Others who join Scouts or Guides will be able to get involved in many different activities and earn badges ranging from Animal carer to Outdoor Challenge to Sports Enthusiast. There are some great opportunities for young people from all backgrounds.” For more information about the uniformed organisations involved in Bedfordshire Youth United see www.youthunited.org.uk/regions/youth-united-bedfordshire
The real deal! IN THE run-up to Christmas, Leighton Buzzard market is teaming up with Central Bedfordshire Council’s Trading standards team and local traders to launch the Real Deal markets campaign to help prevent fake, illicit and potentially dangerous goods being sold to shoppers.
On Tuesday, both organisations signed the Real Deal Charter to show their commitment to the campaign.
The Real Deal Charter is a cross sector partnership cam-
paign bringing together trading standards services, market operators, industry groups, copyright and trade mark owners, to ensure markets are free of counterfeit and other illegal goods, so that consumers can shop, and legitimate dealers can trade, in safety and with confidence. Leighton Buzzard market, which has been running in the town’s High street since c. 1086 and is still going strong every Tuesday and saturday, is the first market in Central Bedfordshire to sign up to the charter.
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Dolphins host successful seventh Open Meet
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Climbing higher with adventure careers EMPLOYERs offering work experience in outdoor adventure careers around the globe were at a shuttleworth College event open to schools from across the county.
FLITWICK Dolphins swim Club held their seventh Annual Open Meet on 29th and 30th October at saxon Pool, Biggleswade, with Dolphins swimmers taking on competition from Biggleswade, City of Milton Keynes, Corby, Dunstable, Greenwich Royals, Rugby, Huntingdon, Modernians (Bedford), Putteridge, Rushden, south Lincs, st Ives, st Neots swans and Nene Valley swimming Clubs. Congratulations to Biggleswade swimming Club who won the ‘Best Visiting Club’ trophy for the third time. Massive congratulations must go to all the Flitwick Dolphin swimmers that competed over the two days, with 181 new personal best times gained, and a very impressive haul of 33 gold medals, 25 silver medals and 28 bronze medals won, as well as five club records achieved, plus as always tremendous team spirit and support between swimmers and coaches. The Dolphin’s swimmers who took part were: Ryhanna Cummins (9), Jack Williams (9), Connie Booker (9), Holly Minney (9) Adam Thompson (10), Lily Moore (10), Francesca Baber (10), Ruby Ryall (10), shannon Ryall (10), Ruby Blackmoore (10), sophie Fowler (11), Felix Moon (11), Eloisa Miller (11) Jake Hickmott (11), George Maskell (11), Holly Cahill (11), Finn Hague (11), Emma schofield (12), Maddie Phillips (12), Mari Cutler
(12), Autumn Handscombe (12), Lillia Thompson (12), Olivia Fowler (13), Isaac Moon (12), Tyler Watson (12), Oliver Hunt (12), Adam Holmes (12), Tom Malia (12), Imogen Thompson (13), Kiera Williams (13), Edward McFarland (13), Billy Cutler (14), Rebecca Grogan (14), Emma Boost (14), Adam schofield (14), James McFarland (15), George Hart (15), Katie Tompkins (16) and Georgina Curtis (16) The club record breakers were Francesca Baber, who set a new record for the ten year-old girls’ 200m Butterfly, and Georgina Curtis who set new standards for the 16 and over girls’ 50m, 100m and 200m Butterfly, and 100m Individual Medley: fantastic swimming achievements. Over the two-day event there was an additional ‘spot Prize’ awarded to the winner of a random heat during each race, which proved popular with swimmers and spectators. Bespoke engravers were also in attendance to engrave the swimmers’ details onto their medals. A massive thank you to the coaches, Nigel Halford and Louise King, Team Manager Judy Thompson, the parent volunteers for all their hard work at the event and, of course, the swimmers themselves for making Flitwick Dolphins a club to be proud of.
Exciting jobs in sailing, climbing, skiing and more are won by those who sign up to shuttleworth College at 16. Among the 20 employers were Camp America and closer to home, Center Parcs, Kempston Box End water park, Essex Outdoors and Bedfordshire Police. In addition five universities offering progression routes to Higher Education were there. Those visiting the event were current shuttleworth students who live in towns like Flitwick Ampthil, Luton and Woburn and who were interested in careers in sailing, the military and going on to university for management studies. “Many of the exhibitors from adventure companies studied at shuttleworth and we invited alumni and local schools to attend
Play highlights the dangers of internet
Pupils from Central Bedfordshire have been learning more about internet safety and child sexual exploitation in a hard-hitting play. Chelsea’s Choice is currently being performed in upper, secondary and special schools across the area. By the end of the run it is expected that more than 2,500 pupils across Years 9 to 14 will have seen the production by Alter Ego. The play tells the story of a group of three students who discover the diary of a girl called Chelsea. Having fallen out with friends and family, she hooks up with an older man who initially treats her well before revealing his true colours. The story is played out by the three students and their teacher, with regular moments for reflection on what has just taken place and how it could have been prevented.
It is the second year that the play has been performed in Central Bedfordshire, with the script adapting year on year to reflect current trends, advice and social media usage. speaking to an audience of Year 9 pupils at samuel Whitbread Academy this week, Jason Clare (who plays shane) said: “It’s important that the relationships you have are healthy – we don’t want you to go through what Chelsea went through. “We hear stories about people who use the internet to prey on people who are down or have low self-esteem. It only takes two minutes to set up a fake profile. so, it’s important to keep yourself safe, so when you get home, check your internet privacy settings. And remember: if you are asked to send a naked or explicit photo then that is child pornography.” That is part of an ongoing awareness campaign taking place across Central Bedfordshire,
SECOND YEAR
too,” said Daniel Playford, Outdoor Adventure Courses Manager, “It’s an increasingly popular event for an increasingly popular career choice. Most of our students go straight into jobs from shuttleworth.”
From next year it is planned there will be an option for students to study a degree level course through a BTEC HNC/D in sport (Leisure Management). They would complete two years of a degree at shuttleworth with the third at university. “This will give them the chance to join us at entry level
DEGREE LEVEL
age 16, carry on at shuttleworth and then have the ‘going away to university’ experience for the third year of their degree. This is more cost effective than going away for three years to university of course,” added Daniel, “Alternatively students who complete two years at shuttleworth are well qualified to apply to a wide range of universities across the UK offering outdoor/ sport courses.” If you want to pursue a career in adventure, sports or military services then take a look at the shuttleworth and Bedford College website www.bedford. ac.uk as a wide range are available across both campuses.
Have your say on the Plan CENTRAL Bedfordshire Council is currently developing a Local Plan. This is a really important piece of work that will provide a vision and a template for how your area will develop up to 2035. It will identify where growth will take place; the homes and jobs and supporting infrastructure we need. It will also consider how to balance the need for growth with protecting our environment, providing good transport, leisure and recreational facilities. If the Council do not plan for this growth or demonstrate a fiveyear housing supply, it will not be possible to control where development happens. As part of the Local Planning process, Central Bedfordshire Council are working with Town and Parish Councils and residents to produce Community Plans. Community Plans will help to build a picture on how people in their local area live, work and travel. It will identify what residents believe are the local issues, pressures and opportunities where they live. so, for example; what facilities, services and infrastructure
are needed? What is it you value about the local character of your area? What do you like or think could be improved in the local environment? What are transport links like and how might they be improved? A Community Plan is not required as part of the statutory Local Plan process. However, Central Bedfordshire Council, recognise the importance of local knowledge. They are taking this unique approach to community engagement to ensure they understand local needs and to ensure that residents have the chance to be involved in the development of the plan. As well as helping to inform the Local Plan, Community Plans will help to identify how residents want to see investment spent from any development that occurs in future. For this to be a success, and to be a really meaningful piece of work, Central Bedfordshire Council need a really good response from residents. For more information, go to: http://centralbedfordshire.gov.uk /planning/policy/local-plan/ community-planning.aspx
Come singing with Danesborough As Gareth Malone continues his quest for the Best in Britain amateur choir, the joy of singing together in choirs has never been more popular. so if you’re making New Year resolutions, forget the diet – singing is a much better way to improve your health and happiness in 2017: simply come singing with one of the area’s leading choirs, the Danesborough Chorus. We are a friendly group, brought together by our love of singing some of the best music ever written for voices. We’re looking for new members in all sections: soprano, alto, tenor and bass. singing gives your creative side a real boost, and at the same time, it improves breathing, giving the lungs a good workout
without training for the London Marathon! The good news is that to join the Danesborough Chorus, you DON'T need a solo-quality voice or professional training. All you need is a reasonable ear for pitch, a sense of rhythm and the ability to follow written music. some experience of singing in a choir is useful but not essential. Danesborough rehearsals are held on Wednesdays, in Aspley Guise Village Hall at 7.45pm. We present three main concerts each year, and rehearsals start on 4th January 2017 for the choir’s Easter concert in March. Fancy joining the choir? Then contact Carol Yirrell on tel: 01296 680328 or visit www.danes borough.org.uk
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MID BEDS BULLETIN DECEMBER 2016 — 13
out & about Family Entertainment
Looking to make family time extraordinary? Well the Grove Theatre, Dunstable has some unforgettable theatre experiences for families in the new spring 2017 season, with exciting live shows including Cirque Enchantment, Jamie Raven and Superslam Wrestling! The new season is now on sale, so gather the family and enjoy yourselves together, with exceptional live entertainment. If a mystical world of frozen beauty and magical adventure sounds exciting to you, then prepare the family to be mesmerised by Cirque Enchantment on Thursday 2 February at 7.30pm. This concert style cirque production features stunning choreography, breathtaking vocals and entrancing circus performers, all to an eclectic musical soundtrack of pop, rock and classical! This is one for the whole family. Or maybe you’re enthralled by the illusion of theatre? In which case, Jamie Raven is live on Friday 10 February at 7.30pm, sharing his tricks of the magic trade. Jamie Raven burst on to your screens during the 2015 series of Britain’s Got Talent, where his magic amazed audiences and even the hard-to-please simon Cowell! In February, Jamie Raven shares with you, some of the magic that has astounded audiences all around the world. That’s not all the family fun to
be had; Superslam Wrestling Live returns with a huge 2017 explosion of top talent from worldwide wrestling federations on Saturday 18 February at 6pm. It’s set to be a truly international Royal Rumble, featuring home-grown favourites such as James Mason, Dynamic Deano and ‘Yes Man’ J.D Bryan. It’s star-studded, it’s action-packed and there’s even a chance for some lucky children to meet the wrestlers backstage after the show!
Sleeping Beauty Pulloxhill Church Hall Saturday 2.30pm Jan 14 Friday 7.30pm Jan 20 Saturday 2.30 & 7.30pm January 21
Pulloxhill Players present a novel reworking of the classic sleeping Beauty tale full of the usual "oh yes she does" and "it's behind you". Our very own King Charles and Queen Camilla of silsoe are very excited because Betty, the good witch of the North, has cast a baby spell on them and they are to have an heir to the throne. But they make
Christmas Craft Fayre Looking for extra special and original gifts? Then look no further. The Christmas Craft Fayre is set to feature an exciting selection of stalls. Pop along and discover the talent of local craftsmen and women from the surrounding areas as you browse for seasonal treats?
10am Sat 3 December
Memphis Belles – Afternoon Tea
Indulge in an Afternoon Tea in our bright and airy Upper Foyer whilst listening to the toe-tapping classic tunes from the 40s and 50s, by the beautiful voices of all ladies group, Memphis Belles.
12.30pm Wed 7 December
Aladdin
Thursday 8 December – Monday 2 January
Those Magic Beans return to Dunstable for the theatre’s 10th
anniversary panto – with the spectacular family pantomime, Aladdin. starring CBBC’s Ed
The West End in Concert
The West End In Concert was formed in 2012 by Creative Director and Musical Theatre actor Andrew simeon. He had a vision of creating a magical evening of entertainment with four of the best singers/actors directly from The West End, and bringing it home to the local communities that supported and nurtured them during their pursuit of following their dreams to become professional musical theatre performers. Andrew who now lives in Bedford, hails from Pontardawe, a village just outside of swansea in south Wales. This is where Andrew began his early training with dance, singing and acting lessons. He then went onto study Performing Arts at Gorseinon College as well as performing in the local Amateur Dramatic productions whenever possible. After this Andrew followed his dream to London, to Bird College in sidcup, one of the top Performing Arts Colleges in the country where he trained in Dance, Drama and Voice solidly for three years. since graduating Andrew has performed in many Musicals in the West End and on Tour around the UK; south Pacific, All That Jazz, snow White (with Paul O’grady), Legally Blonde and We Will Rock You to name a few. He also performed as a vocalist and dancer aboard P&O's MV Aurora, which took him to all continents on the globe and also on a round the world voyage. After this Andrew made his way to Germany to fulfil a childhood dream, to perform in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s
a bad mistake when they decline to invite Hogben, the bad witch of the south. she is livid, seething and vengeful. she casts her nastiest spell – you know – the one where Princess Beauty pricks her finger on a needle and falls asleep forever. Fortunately Plop, the King's servant has fortune telling powers and tips them the wink. There is only one solution – to ban all pointy things. This causes problems for Dame Droopy's knitting enterprise by Royal appointment. Tickets £7, under 12s matinee £5. Box Office sandra 01525 751403 Cathy 01525 719575
Petrie, Corrie’s villain of the decade Brian Capron and Kieran and sarah from Britain’s Got Talent.
Danesborough Chorus Christmas Concert
starlight Express. It was in 2010 that he joined the West End production of We Will Rock You, this show had already played a big part of his life whilst touring the UK with it, but he set up camp at The Dominion Theatre and enjoyed its run until its final performance on the 31st May 2014. The West End In Concert is in its 12th year and performs a variety of different shows as well as having Christmas/West End themed production which is going on this December all across the country. Andrew may have originally hailed from south Wales, but has been living in Bedford for the past eleven years, and apart from the Welsh engagements, he very much looks forward to bringing his productions back to his ‘other’ home in Bedford. The Place Theatre offers something that most of the other venues don’t, and that's a beautiful intimacy. Its a wonderful venue and all his performers love playing it due to closeness of the audience and the way that you can feel that they are really with you during the performances. stars from the West End present a magical evening of entertainment featuring hits from the musicals and the best of Christmas song. The talented cast have starred in many West End productions and national tours including Les Miserables, We Will Rock You, south Pacific,
singing in the Rain, starlight Express, Phantom Of The Opera, Godspell, Joseph and Cats... to name but a few! "This wonderful concert guarantees to bring you joy and fill you with Christmas cheer" (south Wales Evening Post) The show will be running at The Place Theatre, Bedford on Friday the 9th December at 7:30pm (sOLD OUT) and Saturday the 10th December at 2:30pm and 7:30pm alternatively it is also appearing at The Mumford Theatre, Cambridge on sunday 11th December at 2:30pm and 7:30pm. www.thewestendinconcert.com
sprinkle some sparkle into your Christmas season by joining us at the Danesborough Chorus Christmas Concert to be held on saturday, 10th December, at 7.30pm in st Mary’s Church, Woburn. We’ll be singing a superb selection of festive favourites with carols old and new, and there’ll be Christmas readings and interval refreshments. The choir will be accompanied by John Witchell on piano and organ. To help you forget the shopping and the stress, we’re putting fun, fizz and flavour into our musical celebrations this year says musical director Ian smith. Combining traditional favourites with a variety of new carols, our Christmas concert will provide musical magic, and there’ll be plenty of audience participation! The pre-Christmas rush can be hectic for everyone, but music is the perfect antidote. so why not come carolling with the Danesborough Chorus at Woburn Church to enjoy a special start to your Christmas celebrations? Tickets price £10 and £8 for adults, £5 for under-18s, all unreserved, are available Tel: 01525 376760.
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AMPTHILL AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB
‘Probus’ is a meeting point for retired PROfessional and BUsiness men which was founded fifty year ago, our own club being in existence for 42 of those years and covering the area from Toddington to Houghton Conquest. We meet on the first Tuesday of every month at ‘The Cross Keys’ in Pulloxhill to socialise, lunch at 12.30 and regularly have a guest speaker. We tend to finish around 2.30pm. In addition we have two weekend breaks a year, occasional visits to places of interest and ladies invitation lunches. Our members are a friendly crowd and love to welcome new members. If you are interested, please e-mail Paul on pscriv@hotmail.co.uk who will be pleased to bring you along and introduce you.
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BEDFORD RsPB LOCAL GROUP
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– meet at ARA club Manton Lane Bedford MK41 7PF.
Mark Thomas presents
Thursday 15th December
‘THE FULL MONTY’.
RSPB’s Wildlife Crime officer talks about the conservation efforts for our Montagu’s Harriers.
suitable for Experts and Novices, RsPB membership not essential.
Entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 annual group membership £5 www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford
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14 — MID BEDS BULLETIN DECEMBER 2016
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––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Saturday 10th December at 7.30pm
CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT
KEMPsTON EAsT METHODIsT CHURCH Kempston Musical society and guests from Goldington Green Academy school Choir present a programme of festive music in a Christmas Carol Concert. Tickets £7.50 available on the door. For further information please call Janet 01234 781010. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– JIMMY CAUTY’s CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED
AFTERMATH DISLOCATION PRINCIPLE #ADPRIOTTOUR will arrive at the Panacea Museum on the 13th of December. The ADP is a monumental postapocalyptic landscape in miniature. A dystopian model village set somewhere in a mythical Bedfordshire where only the police remain in an otherwise deserted, wrecked and dislocated land. All in 1:87 scale, housed in three immense shipping containers, and viewed through observation ports. Bringing the ADP over the high walls of the Panacea Museum Campus is a major undertaking and the museum want to give as many people as possible from the surrounding area the chance to see this unique work. There is no charge to come into the museum and it will be open every day while ADP is on site. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
CHRISTMAS FAYRE Saturday 3rd Dec from 1pm CHRIsT THE KING CHURCH HALL Harrowden Road, Bedford Entry 50p - children free Raffle (1st prize £200), tombola, bottle stall, Christmas crafts, refreshments, and lots more. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Bedford Gallery Quire
We are a friendly group of singers and instrumentalists that together keep some of Bedford’s musical heritage alive by performing church and social music from the West Gallery period. This is three and four part harmony from around 1700 to 1850. We rehearse fortnightly on Thursdays in Bedford and are always welcoming to potential new members. In particular we would very much like to hear from string, woodwind or brass players. Your own instrument might be played, but we also own several period instruments that you might find to be an interesting challenge. A chat with our Musical Director would quickly establish whether you think this might be for you. Have a look at our website and give us a call. www.bedfordgalleryquire.org.uk Ken Baddley – 01234 310018
FLOOTES Free flowing Prosecco Christmas Menu ———— T W O H O U R R U N N I N G T I M E ————
Coronation Turkey Vol-Au-Vent Sticky Cranberry Sausage & Bacon Arancini with Arrabiata Dipping Sauce Smooth Chicken & Port Pâté on Toast Goat’s Cheesecake with Red Onion Jam Game Sausage Roll with Wild Mushrooms Salmon & Crème Fraîche Shot topped with a Watercress Mousse Lemon & Prosecco Syllabub Mince Pie Admission: £37.50 per person Pre-booked ticketing a must Performances 12 noon to 8pm daily
To make a booking please call: 01525 290042
18 Market Place, Woburn MK17 9PZ
TEL: 07724 905406 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com
MID BEDS BULLETIN DECEMBER 2016 — 15
16 — MID BEDS BULLETIN DECEMBER 2016
TEL: 07724 905406
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EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com
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We ARE NOT on the high street Does that affect how many properties we sell or let? Absolutely not! 95 % of buyers search for properties online using websites like Rightmove, Zoopla etc. They don’t set foot in an estate agents office.
We ARE NOT an internet based estate agent We are an independent, privately owned, nonfranchised estate agent located in Toddington, successfully selling and renting properties throughout Central Bedfordshire. Our friendly professional service includes knowledgeable advice on your home’s market value and how best to sell it, using quality brochures with good photography and floor plans, local newspaper & internet advertising on all the major property sites, accompanied viewings, dedicated sales chasing and local knowledge gained over many years. WE ARE SUCCESSFUL.
What makes us DIFFERENT? Our local team is passionate about delivering positive results, we’re not ‘big national players’ so we work smarter and harder to make YOUR sale happen. The savings we make by not trading on the High Street are passed onto our customers so the fee
you pay for selling starts from as little as £995 and if you’re letting your home our managed service is 9%, both plus VAT. Often we save our clients thousands of pounds compared to the prices quoted by High Street estate agents.
Don’t take our word for it Over 85% of our business comes from recommendations because we offer a straight forward, professional service and deliver results on a fixed fee basis.
So why pay more? If you are thinking of selling please give Sally Aitken & the team a call on 01525 876600 to arrange a free, no obligation valuation.
Park Studios, Park Road, Toddington, Beds LU5 6AB
www.localagentnetwork.co.uk E: info@localagentnetwork.co.uk
T: 01525 876600