BULLETIN AMPTHILL•FLITWICK•WESTONING•HARLINGTON•TODDINGTON
FEBRUARY 2017
2 — MID BEDS BULLETIN FEBRUARY 2017
ENTERING DIALOGUE
i have many warm memories of st Mary’s Cathedral in Glasgow. Whilst at University i went to Glasgow on several occasions with fellow students to undertake community work in the poorer areas of the City. This included building adventure playgrounds and undertaking community research to identify local need. on each occasion, members of the Cathedral were our hosts. i was therefore deeply saddened to see the news reports in January of the controversy caused when the Cathedral invited a local Muslim to contribute a reading from the Qur’an at their epiphany service; a reading that described the birth of Jesus as understood within islam. A reading that reflected Muslim belief that Jesus is a prophet but not
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View from the Rt Revd
Richard Atkinson
The Bishop of Bedford
the son of God. The result was ten thousand negative comments including many that were abusive and have been referred to Police scotland; all complaining that this is wrong for a Christian Church and a denial of the Gospel. it is a sad indictment of the attitudes of many, and at worst islamophobia. The inclusion of this reading was part of an occasional encounter with islam that sat within the Christian responsibility to build relationships with our neighbours and to
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
seek understanding of those of other faiths. More than that, it was set within a Christian act of worship, within a building that speaks powerfully of Christian witness. As the Provost of st Mary’s said, ‘Nobody at that service that night could be in any doubt that we proclaimed the divinity of Christ and preached the Gospel of God’s love’. The truth of the Gospel was not at risk.
Whatever our beliefs and views, a primary responsibility for us all is that Christian responsibility to love our neighbour. A love that is broad in its compass; that includes the need to understand one another, listen to one another and to enter dialogue with one another. The inclusion of that reading in Glasgow was in that spirit. i hope that the generosity and welcome that the inclusion of this reading reflected will not be shouted down by those whose attitudes are less loving.
Help bikers involved in accidents
Bedfordshire fire and rescue service are running free ‘Biker down’ courses throughout the year to give motorcyclists and other road users the skills they need to help bikers who may have been involved in an accident. each course lasts four hours and is split into four modules: Module 1 – First on scene – this module includes an introduction into the course followed by detailed input on risk assessment, prioritisation of activities, calling the emergency services & giving accurate details, parking safely on arrival, scene safety, hazards that can be encountered at an incident and how to deal with each, managing adrenaline & generally staying calm & safe. Module 2 – First Aid – this module covers basic lifesaving and first aid techniques that can be applied when arriving first on scene. We cover managing the airway, breathing & circulation of
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casualties whilst reiterating being mindful of the hazards detailed in module 1. We also perform a ‘Motorcycle helmet’ removal demonstration and allow participants to practise the correct technique for this. Module 3 – Avoiding the accident – this module enlightens attendees with current statistics with regards to motorcycle accidents, the most common causes of motorcycle accidents including both motion camouflage and the looming effect. The module concludes with a discussion on some advanced riding techniques that can be used to reduce the chance of becoming involved in an accident. Module 4 – The Law – this module covers various aspects of the law and how it can affect persons involved in an rTC (such as modifications to vehicles invalidating your insurance). it also covers the information the Police will require
after a serious collision, what to expect from the Police after a collision, the court process including what to expect if you are required to give evidence and finally a ‘frequently asked questions’ session covering several other interesting topics. “Biker down!” courses run throughout the year at shefford Community fire station. The next one is on saturday february 26, from 10am to 2pm and then at least once a month during the rest of the year. Anyone who would like more information, or to book a place, should contact Bikerdown_team@bedsfire.com dates for 2017 are: Mar 19th, Apr 23rd, May 21st, Jun 4th and 17th, Jul 2nd and 22nd, Aug 6th and 27th, Sept 3rd and 24th, Oct 22nd, Nov 26th, Dec 17th Please check the course is running and book at place, please don’t just turn up.
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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
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4 — MID BEDS BULLETIN FEBRUARY 2017
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Take a different look at dementia
CeNTrAl Bedfordshire Council and the Grove Theatre have teamed up to host a live theatre recording of inside out of Mind, a deeply touching and unique play about life on a dementia ward from the perspective of the patients, staff and visitors.
Written and directed by Tanya Myers, inside out of Mind is designed to be a tool for educating care professionals about the key issues in supporting those with dementia. The event will take place on Tuesday, 21 february between 9.30am and 12pm and the showing will be followed by a panel Q&A session with Tanya Myers, exploring the film in more detail and discussing the realities of treating and supporting people with dementia. Cllr Carole hegley, executive Member for social Care at the council, said: “it’s hard to find
people whose lives haven’t been touched by dementia somehow, and inside out of Mind promises to really make us think about how we support those with dementia, their families and the staff that work with them.”
“it was important to us to commission this screening to help care professionals in our area. We never stop learning and this is a unique opportunity to discover more about dementia, especially for those who work in the sector.”
Places are available to book now at www.centralbedford shire.gov.uk/ inside-out-of-mind
Thieving scumbags at work in Westoning POLICE investigating a theft from a vehicle in Westoning, have released CCTV images of two men they would like to speak to. Between 8pm and 10.15pm on Tuesday January 3, a Transit van was broken into and several items of fishing equipment were stolen. Police would like to identify the men in picture as they believe they could assist with the investigation. Bedfordshire Police is also reminding van owners not to keep tools and valuables in their vehicle overnight. Residents may also consider installing additional security systems like a deadlock or an alarm. If you are able to identify the men pictured on the CCTV please contact Bedfordshire Police on 101 quoting reference number JD/271/2017. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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MID BEDS BULLETIN FEBRUARY 2017 — 5
Growing bigger! Growing better!
flitwick Boys Brigade is certainly growing bigger and better - in the space of 12 months their numbers have doubled and but there are still a few spaces left for new members in all age groups which meet on a Thursday at flitwick Methodist Church The Anchor Boys are the youngest members of BB and stand out in their red sweatshirts. They enjoy a varied programme of activities including stories, games and craft. Anchor Boys are for boys aged five up to school year 3 and we currently have discounts available for boys in year 3! Anchor Boys meet from 6.15pm – 7.30pm Junior section is for boys in school years 4-6, and the activities are again varied and this term have a theme of land sea and Air, that will include making land Yachts, scalextric racing as well as thinking about our impact on the environment and an ‘egg’citing challenge to conclude the term! We currently have discounts available to boys in school year 4. Junior section meets from 6.30pm – 7.45pm Company section are the
young men of BB. They have a varied set of challenges and adventures and this year have had their first camp for a while and are looking forward to planning more later in the year. Company section is for boys in school years 7-10 and currently we have discounts available in school years 7&8. Company section meets from 7pm - 9pm once all spaces are filled in any section then we will start a waiting list, until we are able to expand our capacity, which is largely reliant on finding new leaders. BB leaders are all dBs checked and training is available
if you want to know more about joining BB or becoming a leader, then call 01525 720506, or email 1flitwick@boys-brigade.org.uk or you can look us up on facebook to keep up to date with all things BB in flitwick!
For the benefit of the Christmas Lights Waitrose Ampthill Partner, Katie Bushell presents a cheque for £300 from the Community Matters scheme (green tokens) to Richard Holden the chairman of The Friends of Ampthill’s Christmas Lights.
6 — MID BEDS BULLETIN FEBRUARY 2017
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EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Best wishes from the customers at Poplars! The customers at Poplars Garden Centre really were very generous over the recent festive period. in making wishes of their own, they have helped to make the wishes of many children and their families who are associated with the Greenfingers Charity come true.
The Wishing fountain, situated in one of the fantastic Poplars Christmas displays saw lots of wishes made and lots of money raised! After the fountain was drained and the money counted, a fantastic grand total of £360 was collected! Greenfingers, a charity very close to the heart of Poplars, is dedicated to supporting the children who use hospices around the UK, along with their families. By creating beautiful, well-designed outdoor spaces, children can enjoy these gardens with family, friends and siblings, whether through play and fun or therapeutic rest and relaxation. To date the Greenfingers Charity has created 51 inspiring gardens and outdoor spaces in
hospices around the country and has a further waiting list of hospices that need their help now. for more information, visit www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk. The Greenfingers Charity is driven by the belief that time spent outdoors, away from the bedside, can offer children and families under considerable stress a vital opportunity to embrace the benefits of being in the fresh air and engaging with the natural environment. The charity is committed to creating specially designed, stimulating garden spaces that can bring many benefits to children with life-limiting conditions. Whilst many people may take for granted the simple pleasure of being able to enjoy a garden, for these children, their siblings and their families, the chance to spend quality time together outdoors and away from the bedside is precious. Poplars would like to say a huge ThANK YoU to all their customers for their generosity and support and let’s hope that all of their wishes also come true!
Help care for a ‘leaver’ making the step from dependence to independence
leAviNG home and having to face the world on your own can be a pretty daunting experience for any young person. According to national statistics*, people are moving out of home at an increasingly later age, with a quarter of 20-34 year olds still living with their parents last year. in contrast, young people leaving care are often on their own well before they reach 18 – frequently when they are 16. As a result, many of them will experience long-lasting disadvantages and are more likely to become homeless. That’s why Central Bedfordshire Council has launched a new supported lodgings scheme, to help 16 and 17 year olds leaving care to make the step from dependence to independence. it is similar to fostering but a much less formal arrangement, so open to more people. for example, foster carers need to be able to drive whereas those interested in this scheme do not.
Carers need to provide a bedroom for the young person they are helping, and they will also share their facilities and provide practical and emotional support, depending on the young person’s needs, such as teaching them how to cook or improve their budgeting skills. in return, support and training are available from the council’s fostering team and you will receive an allowance of up to £192 per week. Councillor Carole hegley, executive Member for social Care and housing, said: “No 16 and 17 year olds should have to face the world on their own, but unfortunately thousands face that prospect nationally. “That’s why we are appealing for people to come forward and help young care leavers by providing a safe place to stay and the practical and emotional support which they will need to learn how to live on their own. “You could be the stable adult figure they need to help make a
success of their life rather than facing future uncertainly and possible homelessness.” To find out more about the scheme, visit www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/supported-lodgings, call the fostering team on 0300 300 8181 or email fostering@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk The scheme is the second one launched by the fostering team this month, following a push to find foster carers who can provide intensive support and care to vulnerable children and teenagers with challenging behaviour. That is open to people of all ages and backgrounds who have the time, patience and drive to support children and teenagers through a difficult time in their lives and help them to build a brighter future. everyone taking part in the scheme will receive regular and extensive support and advice, comprehensive training as well as a fee for yourself and allowance for the child totalling an amount of
£796 a week. There is also a need for respite carers to support the scheme, who will receive a competitive support and allowance package. Applicants must: l either be at home or available on a full-time basis to offer support when needed l have experience of working with or parenting children and/or teenagers who may have presented challenging behaviour l Be prepared to commit to caring for a child or teenager regardless of their behaviour l Be positive, resilient, patient, caring and emotionally strong l live in or around Central Bedfordshire l have a spare room For more information visit www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk / fostering, or contact the fostering team by emailing: fostering@centralbedfordshire. gov.uk or call 0300 300 8181.
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MID BEDS BULLETIN FEBRUARY 2017 — 7
Amazing milestone reached by team
iN 2011 the service organisation who had run the fireworks for many years decided that they were no longer able to do so. Not wanting the community to be disappointed, Chris hayes persuaded a group of us to take it on. We had no idea what we were letting ourselves in for! our aim then and now hasn’t changed, it is to ensure that families are able to enjoy a reasonably priced firework display in a safe environment. for the evening the Park is an alcohol free zone and we take extra measures to ensure the Park will be safe as well as a fun destination. in 2016 over 6000 people attended and we had to arrange for road closures to make sure everyone got home safely. We couldn’t put on the event without three very important groups of people firstly our sponsors, with their support we know that we will be able to insure the event and purchase the fireworks
Then there are the Ticket sellers, who could fail to be impressed by the queues at Waitrose patiently waiting to buy their tickets in the week of the event! other sellers are available! last, but definitely not least, the other important group are our volunteers, nearly 100 from local scouts, Guides, Air & sea cadets The Committee celebrating the £100,000 raised! and local individuals. Not only do they help prepare the Park, but they will be there next morning as well, picking up all the litter so that the Park is pristine again by Fully computerised data despatch system midday. 4-8 seater – Contracts welcome Any monies that we make are donated to local charities, schools and other organisations, so Downlad our Free ‘App’ iPhone & Android Ampthill fireworks really is a We will notify you of the car and when it has arrived local event for local people. in 2016 we hit an amazing milestone, since we started in 2011 HOUR we have given away £100,000. S Thank you all and we hope to see you all again on friday 3rd 25 Mill Street, Bedford MK40 3EU November 2017 www.A1carsbedford.co.uk The Ampthill Fireworks All major cards accepted – Special rates for airports & long distance Committee
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Friends of Ampthill’s Christmas Lights – the lucky prizewinners
The magnificent vegetable hamper kindly donated as a raffle prize for ‘switch-on sunday’ by Mark and Marcia Bonner (Priestley farm) – who operates the saturday stall on Ampthill Market square – was ticket number 280 bought by sue Whittaker (Ampthill). father Christmas performed our Christmas Prize draw at 8pm on Monday december 19th in The White hart Ampthill. The lucky winners were: 1st A whole day pass for up to five people at Center Parcs Woburn forest – ticket number 03631which was bought by Paul Bennett (Ampthill) 2nd £25 voucher to be spent at The White hart Ampthill – ticket number 00564 which was bought by steve Addy (Ampthill) 3rd Afternoon Tea for Two at Cakestand and crumb – ticket number 03642 which was bought by robert saunders (Maulden) 4th £100 savviTravel voucher – ticket number 02195 which was bought by Anna hornibrook
(Ampthill) who was celebrating her birthday at The White hart! 5th voucher to be spent at The hide in Woburn street Ampthill – ticket number 04041 which was bought by steven holden (Chester) 6th £20 Waitrose/John lewis Gift Card and A copy of The Good food Guide 2017 – ticket number 03559 which was bought by Maureen Milway (Ampthill) Planning for the 2017 display and fundraising events – it costs £5500 each year to erect, improve, maintain, take down and store all the equipment – gets underway on Tuesday february 7th , with our first quiz of the year scheduled for friday March 31st at The Cross Keys Pulloxhill. if you would like to join our entirely volunteer group then please give richard a call on 01525 403141. very special thanks to donna our secretary/treasurer who makes sure that we do things properly. Richard Holden Chairman The Friends of Ampthill’s Christmas Lights.
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8 — MID BEDS BULLETIN FEBRUARY 2017
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Devoted Dunstable fundraiser recognised with a national honour
A devoTed Bedfordshire woman who overcame ill health to help multiple sclerosis (Ms) sufferers by raising more than £54,000 in 23 years has been recognised with a national honour. Gwen Gray, of harlington, has been given a British Citizen Award for her services to the community. . The British Citizen Awards (BCAs) were launched in January 2015, to recognise exceptional individuals who work tirelessly and selflessly to make a positive impact on society. BCAs are awarded twice annually, and recognise ‘everyday’ people whose achievements may otherwise by overlooked. Gwen, aged 80, started raising money for her local branch of the Multiple sclerosis society in 1993 after seeing the plight of her neighbour, eve seddon, an Ms sufferer who was unable to access help and treatment outside the village due to a lack of transport.
Gwen had been forced to retire from work five years earlier after falling down the stairs and breaking her neck. The injuries she sustained to her nervous system caused some symptoms similar to those of an Ms sufferer, so Gwen was able to understand some of what her neighbour was going through. As part of her ongoing recovery, Gwen started potting young plants - a task she could do sitting or standing, and in her own time – which she then sold to help raise money for charity. starting off with small plant sales, and various coffee mornings
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thing to do that i could manage to do in my own time while i was recovering and it has just snowballed. “i’m proud of what i have raised over the years but i’ve just been the catalyst. other people buy my things, people donate things to the sales, it’s all down to the generosity of the village of harlington. it wouldn’t have happened without them, they should be the ones receiving the medal.”
The awards are in partnership with customer experience management company, inMoment, and are supported by the world’s largest optical retailer, specsavers; one of the largest property and leisure management, development and regeneration companies in the UK, Places for People; leading ethical law firm irwin Mitchell; the UK and europe’s leading palletised freight distribution company, Pallex, owned by BCAs Patron hilary devey; and specialist marketing, Pr and communications agency, lime Marketing – who each had representatives at the assessment day and will be presented the awards in January. Gwen was nominated for a BCA by harlington resident, Meryl Parker, who said: “Gwen’s contribution is outstanding because of her consistent hard work over 23 years, and the amount of money she has raised in a village of only 2,500 people. “she’s still working hard to continue raising funds despite her own health problems and she’s incredibly inspirational to all those who know her.”
PRESENTATION
from her home, Gwen’s fundraising efforts soon went from strength-to-strength. At one point she had between 2,000-3,000 young plants in her greenhouse. she now also grows and sells vegetables and soft fruits, and makes jams, jellies, marmalades and chutneys that are for sale all year round. she also holds a very popular annual garage sale, and often receives so many donated goods that she has enough stock to hold several smaller sales throughout the year. The money she has raised has helped to fund the running of the Ms society’s luton, dunstable and district branch’s minibus, which enables people in the luton and dunstable area to have access to The Ms Therapy Centre in Bedford. she is also now helping to fund an occupational therapy
Internet safety play MORE than 1,500 lower school pupils across Central Bedfordshire have watched a play about internet safety. ‘In the Net’ was performed at 19 lower and primary schools in January. The play, by Alter Ego, was aimed at Year 3 and 4 pupils and was developed in response to a growing need to make children aware of internet safety and the real-world effects of cyber bullying. ‘In the Net’ is by the same theatre group which has performed child sexual exploitation awareness play Chelsea’s Choice to pupils here over the past two years. In that time, around 8,500 pupils in Years 8-14 have seen that hard-hitting production.
centre in Bedford so that more local Ms sufferers can receive treatment there. in addition to the cash, throughout the years Gwen has also successfully raised awareness of the condition within her local area. Gwen is one of 29 medallists who will be honoured at a prestigious ceremony on January 26, at the Palace of Westminster. All BCA recipients have positively impact society undertaking various activities in support of a number of causes. each will receive a Medal of honour, inscribed with the words ‘for the Good of the Country’. Medallists are also invited to use the initials BCA after their name. speaking about her nomination, Gwen said: “i haven’t done any of what i’ve done to get any reward, it started out as just some-
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MID BEDS BULLETIN FEBRUARY 2017 — 9
Pole position for apprentices
Bedford College students are in pole position when it comes to winning ‘formula one’ apprenticeships with Mercedes AMG high Performance Powertrains (hPP). hPP sponsors an engineering student of the Year Award at Bedford College every year. The prize includes a fast track to the front of an interview queue for one of the company’s sought after apprenticeships. lee Walters, employee develop-
Hi-tech Flitwick company hosts student visit
foUrTeeN students from Bedford College’s engineering department visited Pressfab engineering in flitwick to gain an insight into some of the latest manufacturing technology. The visit was arranged by Pressfab’s director Nigel Colclough, who is a great supporter of young engineers. Nigel already employs several current and ex-students of Bedford College. Pressfab’s young engineers also are continuing their training at the college, were there to meet the visiting students. steve Croft, head of engineering at Bedford College said: “visits to local businesses are essential as it helps to show students actual working practice and latest advances in technology. it is an added bonus when ex and current students host the visits as it gives students aspirational targets for their own futures. Tutors also gain from the visits as we can bring back latest working practices to the classroom environment.” established in 1993, Pressfab is a high quality, flexible engineering company working with a diverse range of industries including, Automotive, defence, Pharmaceutical, shop fitting and Aviation. The students gained valuable insight into fabrication and power press technology, CNC machining and punching, the use of CAd/CAM in these processes and laser cutter technology. Nigel Colclough said: “We are more than happy to host students. it is vitally important that the next generation of engineers gain as much knowledge and experience as possible. With the national shortages of men and women entering the profession it is all our responsibility to highlight the great opportunities a career in engineering can offer”. for more information about engineering career paths go to www.bedford.ac.uk
ment Manager at hPP in Brixworth, Northamptonshire explained that each year the company took on up to ten apprentices as machinists, assembly or test technicians. After the first year they progressed on to higher National Certificates with a view to developing them as engineers. The team at hPP benefits
from great terms and conditions working in the most competitive and high-tech environment in global motorsport. A video shown to the students explained how hPP is at the forefront of modern engine design including the hybrid energy recovery system.
lee added: “We want young people to step up and believe they can be good enough to be part of our World Class team.” Bedford Colleges offers a range of real engineering courses from aeronautical, electrical, electronic, general and mechanical engineering. students gain workshop experience and go on to some of the best engineering apprenticeships on offer in the UK. Join them via www.bedford.ac.uk Bethany Coles, Personal Tutor, who organised the event said: “We very grateful to have the support of Mercedes AMG. Their involvement is an inspiration to our students who get an inside track into how to get a job with one of the best brands in engineering.”
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New Year’s resolution – test your alarms every month WiTh the New Year underway Bedfordshire fire and rescue service are asking people to make testing their smoke alarms monthly one of their New Year’s resolutions. Many people see January as an opportunity for a fresh start, and safety should be top of the list. so this month Bfrs is encouraging everyone to make sure they have enough smoke alarms in the home and that they work. it only takes a few seconds and saves lives. smoke alarms can give someone the few extra seconds they need to escape in a fire. While the majority of homes across the country now have an alarm fitted, most people are not aware that the average alarm has a lifespan of just ten years and then needs replacing. for people who live in a multi-storey home or a larger property a single smoke alarm is simply not enough. last year, in nearly half of all fires in the home where the smoke alarm did not give a warning the reason was that the alarm was not close enough to detect the fire. Missing or flat batteries were another major cause. Make sure that your alarms are up to date and up to the job. To keep your alarms in working order: l Make sure there is at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home l Test your smoke alarms by pushing the button every month l Check that your smoke alarms are less than ten years old l fit smoke alarms on landings and hallways
and near bedrooms. Also consider in rooms which have electrical appliances – e.g. a heater or charger – or other fire risks l Take a moment to check on family and neighbours who may need help to ensure they’re fully protected. Pete Buckingham, Community fire safety Manger said: “At this time of year, many people will be thinking of what they can do – big or small – to make a fresh start and improve their
lives, homes and wellbeing. smoke alarms can offer vital protection for you and your loved ones, but most people simply fit and forget – they don’t know if it might be coming to the end of its lifespan or not working at all. “if your alarm is getting past its best or an area of your home is missing an alarm of its own, make your New Year’s resolution to fit new ones, test them on the first of every month and protect your home and family in 2017.”
Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service Chief Fire Officer Paul Fuller and Minister of State for Policing and the Fire Service Brandon Lewis MP reinforcing the message at Luton Fire Station.
Call Patricia on 07724 905406 for rates
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MID BEDS BULLETIN FEBRUARY 2017 — 11
Why not become a Volunteer Police Cadet
Bedfordshire Police currently has 60 Cadets, who follow a national programme helping them to gain life skills and an insight into life as a police officer. The two-year programme starts in september, and training sessions are held in Bedford and luton on Tuesday and Thursday evenings and in Biggleswade on a Thursday evening. The Bedfordshire Police Cadet programme aims to promote a practical understanding of police amongst young people and support local policing through volunteering. Being a Cadet is a great way to inspire young people to participate positively in their communities; Cadets also assist with community and crime prevention events including alcohol test purchasing, crime prevention projects, car parking and marshalling and representing the force at official ceremonies. Their dedication was recognised last year after they won a prestigious national award. They ce... scooped the high sheriffs’ Following last year’s amazing sell-out success, we are excited to announ Association of england and Wales National Crimebeat Award 2015/2016 for their outstanding contribution to helping to reduce crime and creating a safer community Bedfordshire Police Cadets follow a national framework which covers five key areas: presentation, procedures, communication, law and health and • OVER 100 LIVE PERFORMANCES OF MUSIC safety. each area is covered with a FROM THE 1920S TO THE 1960S number of informative, interactive • THIRTEEN GREAT VENUES and inclusive sessions. The Cadets • ACRES OF DANCE FLOORS also have the opportunity to hear • 150 VINTAGE TRADERS from guest speakers and visit different departments across the • HAIR & BEAUTY force. • COMEDY & CABARET VALUABLE SKILLS • DANCE WORKSHOPS The programme helps young • INTERESTING MUSEUMS people develop valuable skills that • CLASSIC CAR DISPLAYS can be added to their Cv or UCAs • GREAT BARS & FOOD INCL. CARVERY applications and gives them the • LARGE CAMPSITE W/ GENEROUS PITCHES opportunity to experience a variety of activities, make new friends • GLAMPING & LUXURY CAMPING AVAILABLE and improve their self-esteem and • LATE NIGHT CLUBS & DJ SESSIONS confidence. The Cadets also find time for some fun with a yearly camp sponTHE MANFREDS • SI CRANSTOUN • ROY G HEMMING sored by the Police federation. S • THE GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA THE REVOLUTIONAIRES • THE CHICAGO STOMPERS last year the Cadets also partici• DOWN FOR THE COUNT • ZOOT SERIOUS • JIVE ACES • MIKE SANCHEZ ELECTRIC SWING CIRCUS • FLEUR DE PARIS • STICKY pated in the lord Mayors show, WICKET • BASIN STREET BRAWLERS • THREE BELLES J J KING • THE ZOOTS • LAURA B • BENOIT & THE BEVIN BOYS and went on a behind the scenes VIELLE FON • THE DAISY CHAINS • CHAMPAGNE CHARLIE • BAMBOOZLE • BO WALTO THUNDERBRIDGE BLUEGRASS • KING PLEASURE tour to the houses of Parliament. N & THE BISCUIT BOYS • MUDIBU & THE JEZEBEL SEXTET • LOLA LAMOUR • MOSCOW DUSTY LIMITS • GOOD ROCKIN’ TONIGHT • MAT DRUG CLUB WALKLATE & PAOLO FUSCHI • THE BOBCATS • recruitment opens in January KIERAN TOWERS & CHARLOTTE CARRIVICK • THE THE GOAT ROPER RODEO BAND • LOUNGE CAT KING CATS • GREGGI G • COUNTRY CATTIN’ • IDEALS JOHNNY & THE JAILBIRDS • COCO BOHÈME • STILL-MO 2017. Young people can apply in VING DJS • SWING NOIR ...PLUS MANY MORE - STILL TO BE ANNOUNCED! January providing they are 15 by the 1st september 2017. to for more information email: ets this year, it is advised Due to high demand for tick voluni@bedfordshire.pnn.police. price. d” Bir rly “Ea advantage of our THREE AND A HALF DAYS uk or visit the ‘Join Us’ pages at book early, and also to take OF ENTERTAINMENT www.bedfordshire.police.uk 24773 OR CLICK: 8 4 3 12 0 LL STARTING FROM You can also follow us on CA O INF R FO Twitter for news and updates FRIDAY 25TH AUGUST regarding the Cadet programme: https://twitter.com/BedsCadets
A Great Music Festival
For Lovers of Everything Vintage TWINWOOD FESTIVAL • BEDFORDSHIRE • 25, 26, 27, 28 AUGUST 2017
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12 — MID BEDS BULLETIN FEBRUARY 2017
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Flitwick Cub Scouts are prepared
The three Cub scout Packs (boys and girls aged 8 to 10 ½) at flitwick have been learning emergency Aid. They had to explain what they would do if someone was bleeding or had burned themselves. The children also had to detail the necessary information if they needed to call an ambulance, and were given different scenarios as to whether the injury would need an ambulance. one of the high points of the evening was the children learning what to do if they had to put someone into the recovery position. They were shown what to do beforehand and then had fun putting their learning into practice on a friend. Cub scout emmy Willis said: “What i love about being a Cub is that we do something different every week.” Adult volunteer Nigel Taylor said: “in scouting we help people learn new skills. This is one skill we teach them and maybe one day this might help to save a person’s life.” The Beaver scouts (boys and girls aged 6 to 8) have recently worked towards their
Communicator Activity Badge. To achieve this they have learned how to make a phone call, learned their telephone number, sent an email or text, spelt their name in semaphore and learned about Morse code. Activities they have planned over the next few weeks include Burns night, Chinese New Year, and working towards their disability awareness activity badge. The scouts (boys and girls aged 10 ½ to 14) recently found out about the British attempt at the world land speed record when
Allan read from the Bloodhound Project attended one of their Troop nights and explained the history of the record and the reason for wanting to break it. Activities planned by the scouts for the next few weeks include mini pioneering, pancake making and cooking and
working towards their skills Challenge badge. All nine sections are supported by a group of Young leaders (young people aged between 14 and 18). They take an active part by running games and helping to deliver the activities by instructing small groups of children. James Britten said: “i enjoy being a young leader as i can develop skills and it’s great when you see the smile on a child’s face when they succeed at completing an activity.” The Group have three camps already planned for this year. one of them will be a week at Walesby forest in Nottinghamshire where the Cubs and scouts will get the opportunity to try their hand at numerous water activities, crate stacking, climbing and tomahawk throwing. for further information about flitwick scout Group, please visit www.flitwickscoutgroup.org.uk
Autumn’s 21 Mile Swim Challenge in aid of JDRF AS many of you will know Autumn was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in March 2016, it came as quite a shock and has taken time to adjust and continues to be a challenge! Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease, and there is nothing that could have been done to prevent it, there are currently 400,000 people in the UK with Type 1, over 29,000 are children, Autumn is one of those children. Over the coming weeks Autumn is taking part in the JDRF sponsored swim challenge, the top distance is 21 miles and is completed by logging the number of lengths swam each day. As this is done over a number of weeks, once Autumn has hit the 21 mile target instead of stopping she is going to continue to see how many extra miles she can swim in the time given. So if any of you could be kind enough to support and sponsor her we would really appreciate it. Below is the link to her 'Just Giving' page, just copy and paste into your browser. www.justgiving.com/fundraising/autumnhandscombe JDRF is the world's leading charitable funder of type 1 research and raise money to drive world class research. Aiming to find new ways to treat type 1 and it's complications, and find a cure. Thanks you: Marie - Autumn’s mum
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MID BEDS BULLETIN FEBRUARY 2017 — 13
Dolphins produce amazing results at championships
fliTWiCK dolphins swim club held the first part of their Club Championships competitions back in september, on the 17th, 18th and 24th and they were concluded over the 19th and 20th November – this was a huge success as this was the first time that they had hosted an inter house gala at the new flitwick leisure centre. over the five competition sessions congratulations must go to every swimmer that competed as amazing achievements were gained with 519 Personal Best times, and County Times reached, and there were 152 Gold, 141 silver and 113 Bronze medals won. Plus an outstanding 24 Club Championships records and seven short course records, these were gained by Jack Williams – Boys U10 100m freestyle, daniel Miller – Boys U12 50m Breastroke , Autumn handscombe – Girls U14 50m Backstroke and the Girls U14 50m Breastroke. George hart – Boys U16 100m Backstroke and also gained the short Course record. lauren Murphy – Girls 16 and over 50m freestyle and her brother Chris Murphy who gained the Boys 16 and over 50m Backstroke, Boys 16 and over 200m Butterfly and the Boys 16&over 100m Butterfly. A special well done goes to
James Mcfarland for gaining five Club Champs and two short Course records in the Boys U16 100m freestyle, Boys U16 100m Butterfly, Boys U16 100m iM, Boys U16 200m iM, Boys U16 50m Butterfly plus a short Course record and the Boys U16 200m Butterfly and the short Course record.
Massive congratulations go to Georgina Curtis who achieved eight Club Championship records and 4 short Course records and is now officially the fastest girl swimmer by gaining the Girls 16 and over 50m Breastroke, Girls 16 and over 100m Butterfly, Girls 16 and over 400m iM, Girls 16 and over 50m Butterfly, Girls 16 and over 200m Butterfly and Girls 16 and over 100m Backstroke plus short Course record, Girls 16 and over 200m Breastroke plus short Course record, Girls 16 and over 100m Breastroke and short Course records and finally the Girls 16 and over 200m iM and short Course record – a truly outstanding achievement. Weekend of the 26th and 27th November a team of swimmers competed at the linslade Crusaders open Meet, held at the Bletchley leisure Centre, Milton
CLUB RECORDS
Keynes. fantastic swimming Performances by every swimmer, with 141 Personal Best times gained and some much deserved County & regional Times reached. A fabulous haul of 27 Gold, 47 silver and 44 Bronze medals were won by Tyler Watson (12), francesca Baber (10), ryhanna Cummins (9), Jack Williams (9), oliver hunt (12), Jake hickmott (11), eloisa Miller (11), ruby ryall (10), lillia Thompson (12), Katie Tompkins (15), imogen Thompson (13), lily Moore (10), Jake Maskell (9), sophie fowler (11), Max Thomas (10), Adam Thompson (10), Ben rayner (14), Connie Booker (9), Kiera Williams (14), Adam holmes (12), isaac Moon (13), Maddie Phillips (12), olivia fowler (13), Billy Cutler (14), emma schofield (12), Autumn handscombe (13), emma Boost (14), Mari Cutler (12), James handler (15), Conor sweeney (11), and liz Woolner, further congratulations for obtaining short Course records go to eloisa Miller – Girls 11year 50m Breastroke and francesca Baber – Girls 10 year 100m Butterfly. saturday 3rd of december was flitwick dolphins splash night – a fun and exciting gala to celebrate the clubs 25th Anniversary. split
into six teams they raced against each other in whacky races such as the cork-screw, the caterpillar and the wet T shirt sprint race – the winning team received a trophy and then enjoyed a special celebration cake, crisps and squash.
saturday december 10 saw flitwick dolphins compete at Bletchley leisure Centre for the third and final round of the National Arena league. This was a very tense and exciting team gala as they had already won round 1 and round 2, and now they were not only competing but hosting the gala too, And with their amazing team spirit, fantastic swimming it paid off and won round three, confirming that they had come first in division 3 and will now be promoted to division 2. Congratulations and massive thanks must go out to every single swimmer in flitwick dolphins for triumphing at all the galas, for the dedication of the coaches – head Coach Nigel halford, ian Murray, louise King, sandra Grantdawson and Judy Thompson. The committee, the volunteers and the parents that make the club so successful and of course the swimmers – bring on 2017!
TENSION
14 — MID BEDS BULLETIN FEBRUARY 2017
TEL: 07724 905406
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
out & about Guardians of Ancora
Psychic Sally: Call Me Psychic
Flitwick Methodist Church Mon 10 – Thurs 13 April
Grove Theatre, Dunstable 7.30pm Thurs February 9
looking for something to do in the easter holidays? Then why not come along to the Guardians of Ancora holiday Club Ancora the City of hope, is built on a hill next to the sea. At the summit stands the spire of light which lights up the whole city. The stories of the saga are told here every day and the power of story telling fuels the light of the spire. each story of the saga is represented by a story treasure. Many of these story treasures are missing and the people of Ancora are determined to get them back so they can tell the stories that have been lost. Children from reception up to year 6 are invited to be Guardians of Ancora. email: holidayclub@ flitwick methodist.org.uk
Britain’s best-loved psychic takes to the road for a record-breaking eighth consecutive year to bring amazing moments and spooky insights to audiencesc. sally Morgan’s new tour, Call Me Psychic, builds on her years of experience as the UK’s most popular touring medium. she brings the dead to life with her trademark sense of fun and intrigue in an interactive stage show that will leave Grove Theatre audiences gobsmacked. sally says: “i can’t wait to come to dunstable. The psychic energy there will be fizzing before and during the show and there will be laughter and tears and hopefully an unforgettable night for all.” sally’s emotional sell out theatre shows were the subject of sky liviNG’s hugely popular television
Dr Jeffrey John THE VERY REVEREND
Is coming to BELIEF to speak on:
“All generations shall call her blessed”
Mary in the New Testament and in the church 10am–1pm Saturday, 18th February 2017 St Andrews Church, Kimbolton Road Bedford MK40 2PF £10 per person, payable on the day
We do not want anyone to be deterred from attending any BELIEF events for financial reasons. If you find the fees prohibitive, please contact us.
series Psychic sally: on The road, which followed her gruelling tour schedule showcasing her phenomenal ability to speak with people beyond the grave. she was also the star of iTv’s star Psychic and has written several best-selling books, including the latest instalment of her amazing life story Call Me Psychic. her straighttalking, down-to-earth style and bubbly personality demystifies the world of spirit and she is credited with bringing mediumship into the 21st Century. “There is psychic energy around all of us,” she explains. “everyone has the ability to plug into it and at the show in dunstable i will be able to use that energy to draw messages through from the other side. i never know what will come through which means i’m often just as surprised as the audience. sometimes messages are shocking, sometimes they are heart-breaking and sometimes they are just plain bizarre, but they are always entertaining and ultimately hopefully the audience will be uplifted and leave full of hope. simply sit back, be open-minded and make sure you come forward if you think there is a message for you. seeing is believing!” intrigued and want to see Psychic sally in action?
The Bluebell Club Moggerhanger Park Tues & Weds Feb 14 & 15
february half-term sees the launch of something new and exciting at Moggerhanger Park. located just outside Bedford, Moggerhanger Park is home to a historic Georgian house set in 33 acres of parkland and woodland making it an ideal venue for a brand new and unique school holiday club for children. The woods are famed for their displays of both Bluebells and snowdrops and The Bluebell Club will be encouraging children to go out and explore not only the woods but the surrounding grounds. Based in the Garden room, The Bluebell Club will be running a mixture of fun outdoor activities as well as arts, crafts, making and creating. All aimed at getting youngsters involved in nature and finding out about the house and its grounds. The first club sessions will be on
A Viennese Strauss Gala Grove Theatre, Dunstable 7.30pm Sun February 9
recreating the romance of the viennese festive season, reminding you of a bygone age of glamourous soirees and strauss waltzes, A viennese strauss Gala is waltzing its way to the Grove Theatre. World on stage brings you a new production of this ever popular show, A viennese strauss Gala, featuring highlights from some of the great operettas of the strauss family, Kalman and leha, including die fledermaus, The Merry Widow and many more. The european orchestral ensemble will accompany four soloists from major opera companies, including opera North, english National opera and d’oyly Carte. Now in its 15th year, with a sparkling new anniversary production, enjoy the perfect evening of class with A viennese strauss Gala. To find out more contact the Box office on 01582 60 20 80 or visit the Grove Theatre website at www.grovetheatre.co.uk Tuesday 14th and Wednesday 15th february with more scheduled for the easter holiday. The club is open to children aged five years and over. www.getintobed.org/BluebellClub. html
BEDFORD ORGAN & KEYBOARD CLUB THE ADDISON CENTRE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
A CONCERT BY
PAUL ROBERTS in aid of Addison Centre Funds WEDNESDAY 22 FEBRUARY 7.30 – 10.00pm –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Members £5 PAY AT Non-Members £6 DOOR –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Contact: 01234 344423 www/Organfax/clubs/Bedford
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MID BEDS BULLETIN FEBRUARY 2017 — 15
AMPThill & disTriCT ArChAeoloGiCAl & loCAl hisTorY soCieTY forthcoming illustrated talks Monday 6th February
Bedford NATioNAl TrUsT AssoCiATioN Tuesday February 21st Addison Centre, Kempston Speaker – Lee Fish, Senior Building Surveyor with NT in East of England
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FLOOTES
BRICKMAKING IN THE MARSTON VALE
Book now for Valentines Day Tuesday February 14th PROSECCO EXPERIENCE Sharing board for two + a bottle of Prosecco £35.00 PINK PASSION Sharing board for two + a bottle of Cremant de Bourgogne Rose £45.00 CHAMPAGNE INDULGENCE Sharing board for two + a bottle of Gosset Brut Excellence Champagne £65.00 Call 01525 290042 or email info@flootes.com 18 Market Place Woburn MK17 9PZ
The history in technical, economic environmental and social terms, with a few amusing anecdotes thrown in! Speaker: David Szymanski (Brought up in the village of stewartby, david is ex Md of hanson Brick and hanson Building Products) –––––––––––––– Monday 6th March
WHO IS JOHN MURRAY – AN INDUSTRIALIST AT WREST
The de Grey’s had owned Wrest park for 700 years, but following several tragedies in 1916 it was bought by the northern industrialist John Murray, this talk covers his life 19171939 Speaker: Marian McDowell The iNNer Wheel ClUB for fliTWiCK vAle
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FLOWER ARRANGING EVENING with Neil Gurney
Tuesday 28th March at 7.30pm The Rufus Centre, Flitwick Join us for an evening of flower Arranging with demonstrations from the very talented Neil Gurney. Tickets are £10 each and all proceeds go to the inner Wheel of flitwick vale charities. Contact Cheryl for more details on 01525 715092. Bedfordshire sYMPhoNY orChesTrA
BUILDING CONSERVATION REPAIR PHILOSOPHY
he says: “I will talk through various works I have been involved in, which will be of interest to members of the audience” The meeting is in the . Tea and biscuits will be served. it costs £3 for NT guests and £3.50 for non-NT members. if you decided to come you will be made very welcome. for more details contact Betty Thomas on 01480 860 421.
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WREST PARK VOLUNTEER OPEN DAYS Wednesday 1st March 2017 1st March from 1-3pm and 5-7pm This will be held at Wrest Park in the Anti-library of the Mansion house on Wednesday Would you like to be a part of an outstanding team? Would you like to spend time in one of england’s most prestigious and fascinating Gardens with a story that spans over 600 years Would you like to share your enthusiasm and love of history? Would you like to meet like-minded people and try something new? Then why not come and volunteer for english heritage at Wrest Park. Whether it is welcoming and chatting to visitors or telling the stories of our unique house and garden, there are plenty of ways to get involved here at Wrest Park. Come along to our open day and find out more about what’s involved and how you can help our visitors ‘step into england’s story’. Bedford loCAl GroUP of The Wildlife TrUsT Wednesday 8th February 2017 Meeting 7-30 pm
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CONCERT
Bedford Corn Exchange, Saturday 25 February 2017, at 7.30pm The orchestra, conducted by Michael Rose, presents music from across Central Europe. featuring gifted young russian pianist ilya Kondratiev. rossini - ‘William Tell’ overture Beethoven - 5th Piano Concerto (the ‘emperor’) dvorak - 7th symphony. Tickets: Adults £15/£12, Concessions £13/£10, Children/students £5. Please call 01234 718044 or go to www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk for further details visit www.bedfordsymphony.com
KEEPING TRACK OF BEDFORDSHIRE WILDLIFE
an illustrated talk about surveying, monitoring and recording by Jackie Ullyett and Katharine Banham 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
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The Bulletin series are independent magazines with no affiliation to any other organisation. Š 2017 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