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BULLETIN AMPTHILL•FLITWICK•WESTONING•HARLINGTON•TODDINGTON
JULY 2016
DEFENCE MINISTER OPENS £5.5 MILLION PRODUCTION LINE
INVESTMENT BRINGS JOBS
A multi-million pound facility to manufacture turrets for the British Army has been officially opened at lockheed martin uK in Ampthill, Bedfordshire. Philip dunne MP, Minister of state for defence Procurement, cut the ribbon on the £5.5 million facility on Thursday, June 10 at the technology company’s Ampthill site. The building houses a state-of-the-art production line to manufacture high-tech armoured vehicle turrets, from development and fabrication through to integration and testing.
works on major Ministry of defence contracts for both the British Army’s Warrior and Ajax armoured vehicles. Alan Lines, Vice President and Managing director of Lockheed Martin UK’s Ampthill site, said: “The turrets that will be manufactured have been designed and developed here in Bedfordshire, cementing Lockheed Martin’s reputation for pioneering design. “The completion of this faciliThe new facility is expected to ty means we are now able to create around 40 additional jobs move into production, with our at Lockheed Martin and sustain highly-skilled engineers ready to hundreds more as the company Continued on page 2
Children’s cancer charities get author’s support
Bedfordshire mum rebecca dawe has written a children’s book about baldness and is donating all the proceeds to children’s cancer charities.
rebecca, who lost her own hair to alopecia in her teens, says she wrote hairless harri to help children understand the beauty of diversity. in the book, sevenyear-old harri is shunned by classmates because she’s bald – but when they discover how cool she is they’re desperate to be her friend. “i started losing my hair at 16 and when i wore a wig i’d catch people staring at me or i’d get nasty comments,” says rebecca. “At school, though, it’s much more brutal because kids are scared of things that are different. i wanted the book to help children celebrate rather than fear those differences.” rebecca, who lives in Lidlington with her husband and two young sons, now helps support people with hair loss through her blog, hair Necessity. she also designs high-quality, affordable wigs to boost women’s confidence. “i remember when i first started wearing wigs,” says rebecca. “it was awful. They were so hot and uncomfortable and they’d really hurt my head. They’d go frizzy within weeks and i’d never dare do sports. i’d feel so selfconscious wearing one and it really affected how i felt about
myself. Now i wear my wigs all the time and love how i look.” in hairless harri, the heroine has an amazing multi-coloured wig that’s the envy of her schoolmates, and in the future rebecca would like to design special children’s wigs. for now, though, she just hopes people will buy her book and help raise money for children’s cancer charities. “i loved writing the book and it’s my small donation to all the incredible work that charities are doing to support children and their families with hair loss.” If you’d like to donate, you can buy Hairless Harri for £2.99 on Amazon.
Philip Dunne MP, Minister of State for Defence Procurement tries a turrent for size.
2 — MID BEDS BULLETIN JULY 2016
Monthly update from the Police and Crime Commissioner by Kathryn Holloway
iN My first month as Bedfordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, as in every month henceforth, it is important to me to show the people of this county that i am keeping to the pledges i made in the run-up to the election on May 5. i said that, at a time when the force’s finances are stretched, i should make savings in my own office before the frontline and i have kept to my word. i have not appointed a deputy, on a pro rata salary of more than £50,000. i could not justify the expense of a Pr agency, however good (and there is no suggestion that the existing one was at fault). Above all, at a time when every single officer is needed by the public on our frontline, i could not possibly continue to employ a staff sergeant who i know to be an excellent operational officer, who was paid for by Bedfordshire Police and not the Commissioner, in my own office. All these changes took place on day one, with the exception of the Pr agency which is serving out a three month notice period, required under its contract. other exciting changes in the type of policing the people of Bedfordshire will see are in the process of being delivered. As promised, i will oversee the placement of seven Community Policing hubs across Bedfordshire and am in the process of arranging the siting for these with the deputy Chief Constable, Mark Collins. These will be led by a sergeant, backed by both Police Constables and special Constables with full warranted police powers and Police Community support officers. i particularly favour siting these teams in locations where there are not already police bases so a real difference in visibility can be appreciated by the public. Clearly Luton, Bedford and our third largest town in the county – Leighton Buzzard – all require such policing hubs, but i am also intending to place such bases in dunstable, houghton regis, Ampthill and shefford or sandy. Where the last three are concerned i am actively discussing the sharing of fire stations which i believe the public will welcome, as we already pay for them from the public purse and as police stations have disappeared from these locations. i have had very productive conversations with senior fire and rescue service officers and hope firemen and women will appreciate that, where more than one blue light service shares any facility, its future and those in the fire service who are based there have an even more secure future as a result.
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Nadine Dorries
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
More jobs at Lockheed’s following big investment
by Nadine Dorries MP for Mid Bedfordshire
WE HAVE A SECURE AND PROSPEROUS FUTURE
As i write this the results have just been confirmed. Britain has voted to leave the eU. We have taken back control of our country. The pollsters were wrong, again. The pundits were wrong, as usual. We now have the opportunity so many of us have wanted for so long. We can strengthen our economy based on balanced trade with europe, the Commonwealth and the rest of the world. We can make our own laws once again and control who comes to this country to live and work. The coming days and weeks will see some uncertainty while the markets and remain politicians come to terms with the expressed will of the people. But we are already seeing that the worst parts of project fear used by the remain camp to sway voters will not come true. As a country we are now able to bring about an amicable departure from the eU. one that protects our mutually beneficial trade while reclaiming the sovereignty passed to Brussels without the consent of the people over previous decades. This fantastic, historic result shows how important it is for the entire political class at Westminster to reconnect with the views of the people they are supposed to represent. respecting the mandate of the people to leave europe is only the beginning of that process, not the end. i want to thank all of my constituents who put their faith in Britain, who ignored the scaremongering and voted leave. To those how voted remain i say, we have a secure and prosperous future ahead of us so let’s now work together to make it happen. Perhaps the eU will now realise it has lost legitimacy in the eyes of millions of people across the continent. Perhaps, but that is no longer our direct concern. While they try to solve their problems they know they will be able to rely on our stability, our economic strength and our good will in helping them find a solution to their problems. We have already found ours.
deliver quality, technicallydemanding solutions for our customer.” over the last ten years, more than £23 million has been invested by Lockheed Martin to develop the Ampthill site and establish a centre of excellence for manufacturing turrets. The minister was given a tour of the new building to inspect the full production line and several of the completed turrets. Philip dunne MP, Minister of state for defence Procurement said: “This new £5.5 million high tech centre of excellence will create 40 jobs here in Bedfordshire and secure many more in the UK,
Continued from page 1
making Ampthill a world-class location for high quality, skilled technical engineering. “The highly sophisticated turrets made here are just another example of home-grown British defence innovation that not only boosts the wider economy, but gives our Armed forces an operational advantage, ensuring we can keep Britain safe.” Lockheed Martin is working with a wide network of suppliers to deliver both the Warrior Capability sustainment Pro gramme and Ajax turret. The workforce at the Ampthill business has more than doubled over the past five years to stand at more than 900 today.
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The recent savage murder of Jo Cox, the Member of Parliament for Batley and spen, shocked and distressed us all. Not only was it another reminder of the capacity of humans for evil; not only did her death deprive two young children of their mother, and a husband of his wife; but it prematurely ended the life of a dedicated public servant who had a deep concern both for her constituents and for the wider well-being of the world. her work for oXfAM had given her profounder experience of the world’s ills than most of us will ever have. As person after commentator has said our country has lost someone of so much promise and vision. disturbingly, however, the deep appreciation of Jo’s life that has followed her death is in stark contrast to much of the criticism and rebuke that is so often thrown at our political representatives and other public servants. Just think, for instance, of the scale of abusive social media messages that many receive. of course, at times, our representatives and others haven’t helped themselves. The expenses scandal was unacceptable. however, it also meant that the faithful and dedicated service of many Members of Parliament was over-looked; and that overall the affirmation of public service was further diminished. The tradition of public service in our country that sees women and men put themselves forward to represent us and serve us, for often modest reward, is a crucial contribution to the well-being of our society and one that we under-value at our peril, not least because in so doing we weaken our democratic and civic structures. As we continue to hold Jo’s family in our thoughts and prayers, let us also pray for those who hold office in our own county, and especially for those who represent us in national and local government. To do so not only supports them in their work, but also honours what has been lost by the murder of Jo Cox.
Edith is picture perfect A YOUNG photographer from Ampthill has come third in the national photography competition run by the Rotary Club of Great Britain and Ireland (RIBI). Edith Wright, who attends Alameda Middle School, first won the local competition run by Ampthill & District Rotary Club, in January. Edith’s photograph is of Ampthill town centre by moonlight. The Ampthill club then sponsored Edith’s entry through a District Competition which she won, before coming third in the National Final. The panel for this year’s competition included professionals and photography experts from the fields of journalism, education and business, all of whom were amazed by the standard of the entrants. The competition had the theme ‘Our World is Beautiful’ aimed to improve the skills of young people aged seven to seventeen and inspired the entrants to find inspiration from the world around them. Ampthill Rotary President Trevor Nash said: “This was the first year we ran this competition, and we were delighted with the number and quality of
entries. Although photography is one of the visual arts, schools are not always able to promote this art form, and we hope our Club has encouraged young people to continue to develop their skills. We are delighted Edith did so well in the national competition – she has genuine talent.” Mrs Elizabeth Salisbury, subject leader (art and design) at Alameda Middle School, said: “We were absolutely delighted when our School swept the board in the Junior and Intermediate categories in the local competition, and this is a great achievement for Edith to go on to win third prize in the National. I’m sure this will have encouraged more entries next year!” The Rotary Young Photographer competition is open to any young person in full time education between the ages of seven – seventeen. The theme for next year’s competition is ‘Reflection’. Ampthill & District Rotary Club would love to see entries from children who live in the area. Information about the competition will be posted on the Club’s website (www.ampthillrotary. org) in the Autumn term.
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MID BEDS BULLETIN JULY 2016 — 3
Hard work and passion pays off
Prestigious award
The staff and students at Greenfield school are delighted to have received their sixth Green flag Award as part of the national eco-schools scheme. The scheme is set up to reward schools that reduce their environmental impact and set improving targets year on year and Greenfield school is one of only six schools in Central Bedfordshire to have achieved the highest award in this scheme. Greenfield school has put in place a number of eco-measures which were highly praised by the eco-schools officer. These include the use of photovoltaics panels to generate electricity for the school, encouraging healthy eating and integrating recycling and waste topics in to the
childrens curriculum. Car travel has been reduced by encouraging walking, scootering and cycling with special reward days and Bikability training and with imminent plans to provide a covered cycle store. The eco-schools officer said of the school: “your award is well deserved and reflects the hard work you have put into the programme so far.” Mrs staff who leads the ecocommittee and has been instrumental in many of the positive changes in the school said: “The whole school has worked together to achieve this prestigious Green flag Award. The children are so enthusiastic and knowledgeable about being environmentally friendly.”
Changes proposed to opening times The council is asking for your views about proposals to change opening hours at your libraries. The Library service is required to meet an efficiencies target, identified in the council’s Medium Term financial Plan, of £85,000 from 1 April 2017. overall, the Library service will be reducing opening hours by 30 hours a week. As part of the proposed changes the Library service is also trying to find ways of opening libraries to communities outside normal opening hours so as to make the best use of the buildings. This includes evenings and weekends. Buildings could be used for activities such as health
advice sessions, local meetings, or adult education. This is part of the council’s objectives in the five year Plan to foster self sustaining communities and support people to help themselves and others. These proposals mean that no library in Central Bedfordshire will be closed. All libraries will retain professionally paid staff.
FIND OUT MORE Details of proposed new opening hours at each local library can be found at www. centralbedfordshire.gov.uk If you wish to respond to this consultation, please do so by September 5, 2016.
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TeAChiNG Talons have made it as finalists in the fsB Bedfordshire Business Awards again! This year they are finalists in both the ‘Business innovation’ category and the ‘Green Award’ category. Teaching Talons is an ‘educational animal encounters company, which provides ‘edutainment’ for schools, parties, care homes, fetes, photography workshops, corporate events and more!’. The company was set up in March 2014 by zoo keeper sisters Becky and Tara shaw, along with their dad, russell shaw and Mum, Wendy shaw and it is their second year reaching the finals of the fsB Beds awards, having been finalists in 2015 for best new business. They have a friendly, tame team of reptiles, mammals, amphibians, invertebrates and owls to meet people and teach them about the natural world, its habitats and inhabitants. Becky commented: “We are extremely proud to have made it as finalists in the fsB
Bedfordshire Business Awards for the second year running. This year we are in the finals for both the ‘Business innovation’ & ‘Green Award’ categories.
“We’re especially proud to be finalists for the ‘Green Award’, as the environment and protecting it is a topic close to our hearts! As well as installing solar panels
Presenter Becky with two of Teaching Talons rats.
at our main business address, we also grow a variety of fruit and veg for our animals and forage for safe plants, flowers and weeds for animals such as our tortoises and bearded dragon to eat! We encourage all of our customers to ‘reduce, reuse and recycle’ the waste they produce and to make small changes in their daily lives, that can add up to a big change for our planet. “Being selected as finalists reflects the hard work and passion that we have poured into Teaching Talons, since our launch in 2014. We couldn’t do what we do, without our fantastic ‘Animal Ambassadors’. We have a wonderful team of animals, who have allowed us to educate and inspire hundreds of children and adults in the herts, Beds & Bucks area. “We’re looking forward to celebrating with our fellow finalists at the awards ceremony on 7th July, where the winners will be announced. The animals will be enjoying the night off with extra treats and toys!”
4 — MID BEDS BULLETIN JULY 2016
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Girlguiding Leader commended for 60 years of service TUESDAY 07 June 2016 saw the second Central Bedfordshire Council, Cheering Volunteering Awards, held at The Grove Theatre, Dunstable.
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Flitwick Scouts earn badges
In an uplifting evening to celebrate, and say ‘thank you’ to the thousands of people in Central Bedfordshire who regularly and freely give their time to help others, the night was aptly filled with lots of applause, music, and good cheer.
Left to right: Valerie Cousinsand Anne Cross.
Valerie Cousins from Dunstable Brownies and Guides won the Lifetime Achievement Award for her 60 years of service to the Girlguiding charity. Valerie, who will be 80 this year, started her journey as a Brownie over half a century ago and has never left. In her time, Valerie has been a Leader, Chairwomen, Charity Secretary, Commissioner to name but a few of the Girlguiding posts she has filled in her career within the charity. Valerie was overwhelmed to receive her award and said: “I was nominated by Anne Cross but never thought I would win. I am honoured to receive this award, it is wonderful to have one’s efforts appreciated’.
Valerie added, ‘I could not have done it without the support of my husband and children, being part of Girlguiding is like being part of a second family and I am so glad that I can continue to volunteer.” Well done to every single person who was nominated for an award, winners one and all! Girlguiding is a super way for girls to have their own space; it gives girls a voice and has changed girl’s lives. Girlguiding is a charity and is looking for volunteers, so if you feel you could Get Involved they would love to hear from you. Please call 0800 169 5901 or visit www.bedsguiding.org. uk/index.php/contact-us
PCC launches plan for Bedfordshire making restoring confidence in the police a priority
PoLiCe and Crime Commissioner Kathryn holloway has launched her new Police and Crime Plan for the county aiming to address public concerns over Community Policing and to rebuild confidence in Bedfordshire Police.
The number one priority in the Plan is to make policing more visible in communities with seven Community Policing hubs, positioned in areas where the public can see the difference. “for example, the force is now finalising arrangements for a hub based right on Bedford high street, in the centre of the Night Time economy’s pubbing and clubbing area but also seen by shoppers and workers in the town by day,” said Kathryn holloway. “As i promised during my election campaign, Bedfordshire Police is intending to position other hubs in areas where police stations have disappeared but fire stations remain, like Ampthill, and negotiations are at an advanced stage with the Bedfordshire fire and rescue service over sharing facilities with both the senior team there and the fire Brigades’ Union being incredibly positive and helpful. i think we all appreciate that where more than one blue light service is based at one station it makes its future – and that of jobs there – more secure and, from the public’s viewpoint, it makes best use of buildings they are already paying for,” said Commissioner holloway. “Clearly the main towns and areas of demand like Luton, dunstable, houghton regis and Leighton Buzzard all need hubs too and the North of the county needs one, potentially at Biggleswade or, with the agreement of the fire service, sharing in shefford,” she said. Commissioner holloway pointed to the need to rebuild confidence in the force, which she believes has been eroded over funding arguments. “The public heard nothing but problems over funding for the past few years and that Bedfordshire Police is overstretched. sadly they came to believe the force couldn’t do the job properly. There’s no doubt Bedfordshire isn’t fully funded for the urban challenges it faces, particularly in the Luton area, but that doesn’t mean there are not areas of absolute excellence that i’m finding and that the public need to hear about. for example, Bedfordshire has gone from 41st in the country out of 43 for improvements in tackling burglary to the number one slot and the operation fidelity programme for tackling persistent burglars through daily disruption and over every minor infraction of the law, plus the Cybercrime hub, dealing with online crime, are considered such examples of best practice that they’re attracting other forces to come to Bedfordshire to see how it’s done. i need the public to know
they have a force to be proud of,” she said. “Also, when things go wrong, as sadly they will from time to time in an area like policing, i need to explain the background as fully as i can within the law and the constraints of investigations like those of the independent watchdog on policing, the iPCC, so communities don’t leap to the wrong conclusions. Whatever the constraints at the time, i will stand by my promise not to preside over any whitewash and present the facts when able to do so,” said Commissioner holloway. The priorities of the Police and Crime Plan for Bedfordshire were first presented to the Police and Crime Panel of local councillors and an independent representative, at its meeting with the PCC last week (Thursday June 16) and went live this week on the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s website www.bedspcc.org.
THE PLAN’S PRIORITIES
n A return of more visible policing across the county n To rebuild public confidence in Bedfordshire Police. n To ensure police are there when needed most after 999 calls n Putting victims at the centre of the way Bedfordshire police and prosecute n A fair deal on policing whether you live in the country or town n Protecting the police to protect the public n Genuinely being a Commissioner for all communities n Working with partners to break the cycle of crime
Mrs holloway has embarked on Project Boost the frontline to release as many officers as possible from desk duties and to help those on restricted duties or long-term sickness back to full working, aiming to boost morale and invest in occupational health facilities, so more officers are available for 999 response duties. she launched a new rural Crime strategy this month with the help of the National farmers Union in a rural crime intelligence network of contacts for Bedfordshire Police, which has also now appointed a dedicated rural Crime officer to work with the force, Parish Councils and country communities.
A research team is looking at the prospects for reducing single crewing –where police usually go out to answer 999 calls on their own without knowing what dangers may lie behind each door. “This has been cited to me as a real reason why officers leave the police as they feel so exposed. We are looking at evidence that, even with our relatively small frontline compared to our neighbours, the teams who achieve the most in policing terms are the ones where two officers are in a vehicle to back one another up,” she said. Mrs holloway is starting a series of meetings to encourage diverse communities in the county to become more engaged in policing. “We need every community to be represented in our recruitment – and have three separate recruitment drives this year. Not only that but our diverse communities are less well represented among special Constables and those who are working with the force on community schemes like Neighbourhood Watch, streetwatch and the speedwatch programme, which all create greater mutual confidence in policing and help keep neighbourhoods safer,” she said. she will be holding a public meeting in Luton, between 2pm and 4pm on saturday July 9 at Berry hill Conservative Club, Bury Park, accompanied by deputy Chief Constable Mark Collins, superintendent for the south of the county supt. sharn Basra, recruitment officers for both full-time constables and specials and advisors on free home security improvements from the Bedfordshire Police Partnership Trust. The Commissioner is also committing to multi-agency working with local authorities to identify offenders by working together since the small minority who represent the greatest challenge for policing are often the same group challenging these other agencies. “i have had great encouragement from the Central Bedfordshire Council leader, James Jamieson, to work together with police wherever we can to reduce crime and the Chief Constable, Jon Boutcher, and Luton Ceo Trevor holden have visited Manchester to see how their police and council teams work with others across the public sector to deal with crime. This sort of joint working, cutting across the political divide, is the direction of travel policing needs,” said Commissioner holloway. “Bedfordshire Police has its own strategic Plan – the force Control strategy – around the most serious crimes like Counter Terror, serious organised Crime like human Trafficking and Child sexual exploitation and they have my full backing in dealing with these but i’m the public’s voice on policing and my Plan has to join these priorities to make sure that voice is heard,” she said.
BeAVer scouts (boys and girls aged 6 to 8) from flitwick scout Group have recently earned themselves two badges. The first was the faith badge where they spent some time at st. Peter and st .Paul Parish Church. The rev Lucy davis showed the children around the Church and they discovered some kneeling cushions with details of the Group on them. Lucy explained about the stained glass windows, the pulpit and why the pews were so hard! euan Philips said: “Lucy told us the story of the good samaritan and about helping others. As Beaver scouts we help other people, does that mean we are also samaritans?” The following week the children took their bicycles to Woodland school so they could earn their cyclist badge. The children were asked questions about the importance of wearing safety equipment and they had to demonstrate how to put on and wear a safety helmet correctly. They also had to pump up a tyre and then demonstrate how to ride a bicycle by riding round a specially designed course. young people joining the Group, which caters for boys and girls aged 6 to 14, will get the opportunity to earn badges and take part in activities, some for the first time. some of the badges they can earn include Animal friend, Collector, Cook, explorer, hobbies and space. The Group currently has nine ‘young Leaders’, boys and girls aged 14 to 18, who are developing leadership skills which will hopefully hold them in good stead when they are putting together a per-
sonal statement for university entry or for a CV when they are applying for a job. Trustee Nigel Taylor said: “scouting has grown for 11 consecutive years and one of the reasons flitwick scout Group is so successful is due to the commitment of the adult volunteers in providing the activities the young people want to do. The children obviously enjoy the activities provided as they all turn up week in week out. some of the children will get the opportunity to do activities for the first time. This activity might be sleeping in a tent, climbing a tree, building a den or growing a plant. scouting provides over 200 activities for young people and children in the Group will get an opportunity to try most of these.” The Group is always looking for more adult volunteers to help either as a leader or as a trustee. if you can give a few hours a month the Group can find a role for you. it does not have to be turning up every week to help run one of the sections, it might be attending on an occasional basis to help organise a badge. Members of the Cub scout section (8 to 10 ½) and scout section (10 ½ to 14) will be spending a week away in August when they will be camping at youlbury scout activity centre in oxfordshire. some of the activities they will be involved with are crate stacking, fire lighting, cooking on an open fire, high ropes and wide games. for further information about flitwick scout Group, please visit www.flitwickscout group.org.uk
Very busy Boys’ Brigade!
MeMBers of the Boys’ Brigade in flitwick have been very busy recently. The end of May saw their Annual Presentations when every boy received something to mark their past year in BB. The evening also included a family quiz that went down very well. Then it was time to crack on with preparations for the flitwick Carnival where BB had a float and a stall. The sun shone and a fantastic day was had by all. Thank you to everyone who came along to the stall and supported us or just had a chat about their own BB memories – it was great to see you all. No time to catch breath before
a party to celebrate the Queens 90th Birthday, a trip to Ampthill Park to discover more about the WWi camp that was there, as part of the Tommy’s footprints Project, Battalion end of session sports, a rocket evening, lads and dads mini olympics, swimming and finally a family BBQ to finish this session of BB. Looking ahead to the new session then lots of things already being planned including a weekend camp at the end of september. To keep up with all things BB in flitwick then do find us on facebook, or for more details call 01525 720506 or email 1flitwick@boys-brigade.org.uk
TEL: 07724 905406 ADS: dave@rosettapublishing.com
‘Outstanding’ success
ToddiNGToN Childcare received an ‘outstanding’ ofsted in April this year. Toddington Childcare is an independent registered charity which offers a wide range of wrap-around care for children between the ages of one year to twelve years for up to 50 weeks of the year operating from 7.30am to 6.00pm term time and 8.00am to 6.00pm during school holidays. fiona Greatorex commented: “We are very pleased to have opened our new ‘Panda room’ for one to two year olds, and proud to deliver speech and lan-
guage sessions for all children between the ages of three to five years in our ‘lift off to language’ programme which is proving to be a great success. “our extremely well qualified staff continually strive to improve their knowledge and expertise through continued professional development and qualifications in order to deliver the best possible outcomes for all our children. “The staff at Toddington Childcare would like to thank their committee and parents for their continued support.”
Inspiring volunteers
More than 500 people braved the torrential weather to celebrate the achievements of Central Bedfordshire’s inspiring volunteers. The second annual Cheering Volunteering awards and celebration evening took place at the Grove Theatre, in dunstable, on Tuesday evening. The winners and highly commended in each category from almost 100 entries were: young Volunteer of the year – sponsored by ProLogis • Winner – Ria Stanford, Aldwyck Housing youth volunteer • highly Commended – Shrishti Agarwal, Sustrans youth volunteer Volunteer of the year – sponsored by Central Bedfordshire Council • Winner – Trevor Pocock, Road Victims Trust • highly Commended – Graham Mountford, emergency response volunteer and Bob Izzard, Carers in Bedfordshire Volunteer Group of the year – sponsored by Biffa • Winner – Houghton Regis Helpers • highly Commended – St Swithuns Drop In Café and Houghton Regis Craft and Coffee outstanding Contribution Award – sponsored by Aragon Housing
• Winner – Kerry Day, CHUMS • highly Commended – Clive Bates, volunteering in downside, dunstable and David McDonald, Luton and dunstable hospital volunteer Lifetime Achievement Award – sponsored by Jeakins Weir • Winner – Valerie Cousins, Dunstable Brownies and Girl Guides • highly Commended – David Sedgley, environmental volunteer and Gladys dawson, volunteering in Clifton fundraiser of the year Award – sponsored by Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service • Winner – Clive and Mary Jane Mear, fundraising in Caddington • highly Commended – Kim Gutteridge, fundraising in Potton and Leighton Buzzard Children’s Theatre, fundraising for local and national charities Panel’s Choice Award – sponsored by Voluntary and Community Action and Community and Voluntary Service (pictured below) • Winner – YAWN 16, club run by volunteers for adults with learning disabilities • highly Commended – Tristan Webb, Bedfordshire Police volunteer and the Airfield Volunteer Fire Service, shuttleworth Collection, old Warden
MID BEDS BULLETIN JULY 2016 — 5
Cast of panto in Mini Olympics
The pantomime cast of Aladdin visited dunstable recently, to take part in the very first Panto Mini olympics, hosted by the Grove Theatre. Although the magic of panto is rife in dunstable, it cannot be denied that excitement is building for summer and the rio olympics that it beholds; so the Grove Theatre combined the two. The theatre welcomed Brian Capron (Coronation street), Kieran sutcliffe (Britain’s Got Talent), sarah Jameson (Britain’s Got Talent), ed Petrie (CBBC) and local talent Joe Ashman to take part in the Panto Mini olympics. The panto cast competed against Grove Theatre staff and a team from local estate agents deakin-White, in events including the Arabian Market sweep, Princess Jasmine etiquette relay, Genie dress Up, Magic Carpet Toss and Widow Twankey’s Washing Line. But who won gold? Well, competitive as ever, and continuing their winning streak from the Pancake day race earlier this year, deakin-White took first place, the dunstable Panto cast took second place and Grove Theatre staff took third place. And as if that wasn’t enough excitement for one day; there was also the first panto Grove record breaking attempt. Joe Ashman took the challenge of eating as many mince pies as possible in two minutes. The current
world record for this challenge stands at 54 mince pies in one minute, so stepping up to the box of freshly baked mince pies from The Cake house, dunstable, Joe managed to eat a grand total of three in two minutes. our local teams felt they should challenge Joe, with sam from deakin-White managing to eat only one mince pie in the time, and the Grove Theatre’s very own technician James, eating four mince
Keep Safe Around Water
In hot weather it can be tempting to jump into a pond, lake or river, to take a run along a river bank or to go fishing in a quiet country spot. But a leap into cold water can create “cold water shock” literally taking your breath away. There are also underwater hazards like weeds or rubbish that you’ll get tangled in. Beware of strong currents and don’t swim when drunk or taking drugs.
When walking or jogging along a river or canal bank take extra care — 140 people drowned in the UK in 2014/5 after falling into water while out running or walking. Don’t go into the water to rescue your dog if they fall in, find a place they can get out and guide them to it. If you see someone in the water in distress call 999 immediately and give your location.
Keep Safe Outdoors
BBQs: Consider your neighbours when holding a BBQ, will the smoke affect them? Never leave BBQs unattended, keep them well away from sheds, fences, trees, shrubs and garden waste and keep children and pets away from them. Never use a BBQ indoors and have a bucket of water or sand nearby or a garden hose ready in case it gets out of hand. When you’ve finished cooking don’t empty hot ashes into wheelie bins or dustbins, let them burn out or put them out with water.
Camping & Caravanning
Allow 6m distance between tents and caravans and from parked cars. Fit and test smoke alarms in caravans and never use candles in or near a tent. Never cook or smoke inside a small tent. Don’t dry clothes over caravan stoves or heaters.
For more advice visit www.bedsfire.com Follow us on Twitter @Bedsfire or on Facebook www.facebook/bedsfire for more safety tips Get safety information & alerts direct from us via BedsAlert. Sign up at www.bedsfirealert.co.uk
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pies in two minutes – well done James; the challenge appears to be harder than it seems! overall the Panto Mini olympics was a fantastic opportunity to meet the cast, welcome them to dunstable ahead of their performances in Aladdin starting on Thursday 8 december, and gather a few local businesses together in an event that shows the community spirit of dunstable!
Keep Safe This Summer
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Here’s to Flootes!
The Market Place in Woburn is now home to a new start up – flootes. founded by chef, steven Meredith and former wine merchant steven sharkey, flootes is a deli, Champagne and Wine Bar. They stock a variety of in-house produced fare, such as scotch eggs, quiche, cakes, cooked meats and cheese. food and beverages are available all day from 8am seven-days-aweek. if it’s just a tea or coffee you want, this is always available both in-house or to go, with specialities such as Cappucino, Mocha, Latte, espresso and hot chocolate. Also on offer is a complete range of deli sand-
wiches which can also be bespoke, tailored to suit any taste. These are also available in salad form, freshly prepared in-house. There is also a range of boards including charcuterie and cheese. A delivery service for local businesses is now up and running. Visiting daily to provide refreshment for the local workforce in offices and factories and includes sandwiches, salads and anything else from the menu. flootes is a fully licensed establishment and can offer a selected range of locally produced real ales, still and sparkling wines and the full range of Gosset Champagne. A selection of wine is also available by the glass. flootes will also be hosting themed evenings. for example: An italian Bottle & Board night. Celebrate a small piece of italy with a board for two plus a bottle of Prosecco, red or white italian wine for just £25! The recently refurbished premises have plenty of seating inside, plus a large, seated courtyard area and extensive garden. The Gosset suite offers a comfortable environment in which to hold a presentation, meeting or family function. for further information go to flootes on facebook.
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MID BEDS BULLETIN JULY 2016 — 7
prepares to deliver projects in Bedfordshire Nominate volunteers Cube FLITWICK-based Cube Building Consultancy are preparing for a busy summer of delivering the projects their successful bids secured for schools across the county. Securing almost £2 million pounds for six schools back in March, they are currently offering local building firms the opportunity to tender for the contracts. ‘We believe in ensuring the regions SME’s are afforded the chance to tender for these projects. We hope that the local economy benefits by use of the local supply chain’ says Cube, MD Mallams. With the school term finishing at the end of July and the new term commencing in the first week of September, the six week window can a hectic one ensuring that all the works are complete in time for when staff and pupils return. Schools such as The Firs Lower and Alameda Middle in Ampthill are looking forward to new classrooms and roofing for their sports hall. Brooklands and Gilbert Inglefield Middle schools in Leighton Buzzard are also due to undergo extensive roofing works, as are Wotton Upper, whilst Holywell Middle school in Cranfield is to benefit from any upgraded heating system. Cube are fast securing themselves an excellent reputation for securing funds and delivering the projects across Bedfordshire and beyond. Any academy school that is considering submitting a bid in December and who feel they would benefit from strategic advice for the bid preparation is invited to contact Cube on 01525-722210.
POLICE and Crime Com missioner Kathryn Holloway is calling on the people of Bedfordshire to nominate volunteers for the Home Office’s Lord Ferrers Award for volunteering in policing. The awards, previously known as the Special Constable and Police Support Volunteer Awards, highlight the vital role volunteers play in support of policing. For the first time, the Home Office is inviting nominations from the public, so that more people can recognise the contributions of police cadets, police service volunteers and specials in the community. “Many people outside of the police family don’t realise how much is done by our hardworking volunteers,” said PCC Kathryn Holloway. “We not only have Special Constables out on the frontline, but we are also supported by our lesser-seen police service volunteers, who help with admin at police stations, and our police cadets, who support us through community and crime prevention events. “Many of our volunteers contribute a huge amount of
their spare time, liaising with members of the community and helping Bedfordshire Police to protect the public and fight crime. I’m asking for the people of Bedfordshire to tell me their stories of exceptional police volunteers, so that we can put them forward for this prestigious award.” In 2015, Bedfordshire’s Special Constable John Power won the Lord Ferrers Award, after becoming the UK’s first Special Constable Dog Handler following a battle with Cystic Fibrosis and a successful double lung transplant. John, accompanied by Police Dog Charlie, received the Special Constable Overcoming Adversity award from the Home Secretary Theresa May. The awards were created by a previous Home Office minister, Lord Ferrers, and were first held in 1993. They have been renamed in memory of Lord Ferrers, who died on 13 November 2012. For more information, please contact the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner on 01234 842872.
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Timeless elegance of the Peony iT WAs celebration time recently as local nurseryman, Alec White and Kate Gould celebrated a silver medal for Primrose hall nurseries exhibit, ‘The Timeless elegance of the Peony’. After all the excitement of the build, the challenge of keeping over one thousand cut flowers looking their best for the judging and balancing blooms from the magnificent bespoke chandelier the wait was finally over and the hard won medal was in the bag! highlights of the show included BBC filming of the exhibit which was broadcast on Wednesday afternoon, a visit from Gardeners World presenter Zephaniah Lindo, press photographers snapping the display in their multitudes and of course the reactions of the public who have ordered Peonies by the dozen after being wooed by the sight of so many beautiful blooms. The best-selling Peony of the
Don’t miss The Firs’ Open Days The Firs lower School is a happy, lively school with dedicated staff who value and care for children as individuals. We admit pupils from 4-9 years of age, with pupils entering the 4+ unit in the September after their fourth birthday. These early years are a crucial stage in a child’s education and it is essential that
young children should enjoy their introduction to school and feel secure in the environment provided. We believe a child’s education is a partnership between home and school and welcome parental support and involvement. We very much look forward to meeting you and welcoming your child into our friendly school.
Horticulture courses launched in partnership with local nursery
CeNTrAL Bedfordshire College will be running courses in horticulture for the first time from september 2016. The full time courses will give students aged 16-18 a chance to get started on a career in horticulture. students will work at Primrose hall Nursery in Westoning where they will be taught by
the nursery professional and they will have theory lessons at the College in dunstable. They will study stock and crop production and the care and maintenance of plants; plant and soil science; working in a land-based business. The courses will prepare them to work in nurseries or gardens or to go on to further study in land-based industries. Primrose hall is a prize-winning nursery which has had great success at this year’s Chelsea flower show. The partnership offers College students a fantastic opportunity to work with experienced professionals who are experts in their field. The horticulture courses build on the success of the College’s partnership with Primrose hall this year in running a course in Animal Care. Ten College students have worked and learned at dingley dell, the nursery’s animal attraction, learning about the care, accommodation, feeding, health and welfare of a range of animals, from rabbits to lizards. in september, dingley dell will also have sheep, pigs and a donkey and a new group of College students is looking forward to working with them! Central Bedfordshire College was rated Good by ofsted this year and also holds the Quality Mark of the Quality Assurance Agency for higher education for the quality of its higher education courses.
Photography: Becky Groves.
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show has proved to be Peony lactiflora ‘duchesse de Nemours’ AGM , possibly due to the fact that this particular bloom was Monty don’s bloom of choice at rhs Malvern when he bought some from Alec for his scented garden and featured it shortly afterwards. Approximately one thousand cut peonies were used to create this display which was designed by Alec White who was mentored by Chelsea Gold Medallist Kate Gould (www.kate gouldgardens. com) as part of a mentoring initiative from the rhs. Alec is currently working with Central Bedfordshire College to design courses that will encourage more students into horticulture. Primrose hall Nursery at dingley dell, Westoning is open five days a week by appointment only. Tel: 01525 878924 or email enquiries@primrosehall.co.uk
Sarah Taylor receiving her Award from Ali Hadawi, Principal of the Central Bedfordshire College.
Central Bedfordshire College held its award ceremony for students of the year on 16 June. sarah Taylor, a student on the Animal Care course was the winner of the student of the year for science. her tutor praised her leadership and determination as well as the quality of her assignment work. sarah intends to go on to the College of Animal Welfare.
AWARD WINNER
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MID BEDS BULLETIN JULY 2016 — 9
Funded route to degree eThAN sinclair, a student at The programme offers him significant Bedford sixth form, has been funding support during his course accepted on to the prestigious of study as well as a salaried posihigher Business Apprenticeship tion at MBdA. Kirsty Maidment, Teacher of 2016 scheme with MBdA, a defence company who supply Business studies at The Bedford sixth form, commented: “ethan is equipment to the Armed forces. The four year programme is a a great student, he has taken an superb opportunity for students alternative route to A-Levels, who are expecting to or have which he found to suit his preferred achieved 300 UCAs points or more method of study and has proved to and wish to combine study and be really willing and enthusiastic. i work to gain a broad depth of both really wish him the best of luck in industry knowledge and work his future career; it is an excellent experience. on completion of the starting point.” apprenticeship, students achieve a degree in Business Management and have the opportunity to apply and develop their skills in areas such as; Procurement, supply Bedfordshire PoLiCe are Chain, UK & export Contracts and celebrating the best improvement in Business Cost forecasting and burglary figures of all 43 police Pricing. forces in england and Wales after a ethan, who has taken an alterna- county-wide crackdown praised by tive route to A-Levels, is studying a Police and Crime Commissioner Business diploma at The Bedford Kathryn holloway as a gold stansixth form. he will attend the dard for policing. University of hertfordshire and the The force has gained the number one spot for improvement in cutting home burglaries after being 41st out of 43 just three years ago. it’s new PCC Kathryn holloway says: “every burglary is still horrific for the victims and i won’t ignore that in any way but this progress by Bedfordshire Police is incredible. i need people to know that break-ins are far less common than feared. Bedfordshire Police have been on the case of burglars in some really imaginative ways and it’s truly paying off.” “When i’ve been speaking to communities, in Luton for example, over the past seven months i’ve often been told that a burglary is happening there every 15 minutes and i’m really delighted to be able to prove this isn’t true and people can have much more confidence in their homes and in our police officers as a result,” she said.
ethan added: “i’m really looking forward to experiencing different areas of the business at MBdA which will help me make an informed choice about my career path in the company at the same time as studying for my degree.” ethan has already achieved the required 300 UCAs points through his submitted coursework and will start the apprenticeship after the summer. if you would like to know more about The Bedford sixth form go to www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk
Better break-in numbers
ROSETTA’S MAGS GET RESULTS…
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Much of the success in cutting burglaries is being credited to Bedfordshire’s operation fidelity Plan aimed at disrupting, arresting and prosecuting burglars. it is focusing on high-risk locations, advice to the vulnerable and working with trading standards officers to target those who sell stolen goods. in addition to a new Burglary Team, a fidelity car has been introduced to patrol high crime areas and conduct curfew checks on previous offenders who should be at home. The result is that from April 15 last year to March 16 2016 burglaries fell to an average of 6.7 per day in a population of 670,000 from 8.1, with around 500 fewer victims. “it shows that targeting known criminals and focusing on crime hot spots pays dividends although we can’t be complacent in any way and need to build on this success to keep our whole community safe, “said PCC Kathryn holloway. “The result is that the Chief Constable tells me that other forces are now coming to Bedfordshire to find out how we are making a difference over burglary to learn from our experience,” she said.
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Great weekend of swimming from Flitwick Dolphins
The 14th and 15th of May saw again some fabulous swimming achievements from flitwick dolphins competing at two separate venues. Congratulations go to a small contingent of swimmers that competed over the weekend at the Luton Long Course open Meet, fantastic swimming results, where they achieved some great new long course personal best times. These swimmers were: Kai Borromeo (14), imogen Thompson (13), sam dennis (14), olivia fowler (13), George Maskell (11), Ben raynor (14), Jack
hickmott (10), who also gained the 10 year old boys 100m Long Course club record and sophie fowler (10) winning silver and gaining a new long course club record in 10 year old girls 400m iM and winning Bronze and a Long course club record in 10 year old girls 400m freestyle. over at the dunstable Leisure Centre a selected team of swimmers competed with five other swimming clubs for the Tom Williams Cup. This team gala, hosted by dunstable swim Club was in memory of Tom, a young swimmer from dsC that sadly passed away last year,
Country Park earns Certificate of Excellence rUshMere Country Park has received a TripAdvisor Certificate of excellence. Now in its sixth year, the achievement celebrates hospitality businesses that have earned great traveller reviews on TripAdvisor over the past year. Certificate of excellence recipients include accommodation, places to eat and attractions located all over the world that have continually delivered a quality customer experience. The park in heath and reach, near Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, is managed by the Greensand Trust on a not for profit basis and has been made available by the Trust and Central Bedfordshire Council working in partnership for the benefit of local people and wildlife. The Greensand Trusts’s Chief executive Gill Welham said: “We’re delighted to have been awarded an internationally recognised standard of excellence, thanks to many visitors who’ve visited rushmere Country Park posting highly positive reviews. We appreciate feedback from our
visitors which helps us to improve our offer – as a charity all proceeds made are reinvested into the running of the park.”
“With the Certificate of excellence, TripAdvisor honours hospitality businesses that have consistently received strong praise and ratings from travellers”, said heather Leisman, Vice President of industry Marketing, TripAdvisor. “This recognition helps travellers identify and book properties that regularly deliver great service. TripAdvisor is proud to play this integral role in helping travellers feel more confident in their booking decisions.”
The Certificate of excellence accounts for the quality and quantity of reviews submitted by travellers on TripAdvisor over a 12-month period. To qualify, a business must maintain an overall TripAdvisor bubble rating of at least four out of five, have a minimum number of reviews and must have been listed on TripAdvisor for at least 12 months.
and all proceeds made were donated to ChUMs. it was a fast, furious and noisy Gala with every parent, swimmer and coach cheering on their clubs. dolphins swimmers were once again amazing, not only with the swimming but the continuous support towards each other, and achieving a fourth place result on the night. The team of swimmers competing at this gala were ten years and under: francesca Baber, Lily Moore, ryhanna Cummins, ruby Blackmoore, Jack Williams, Max Thomas, Gabriel young,
Adam Thompson and Jake Maskell. 12 year and under: George Maskell, Tyler Watson, daniel Miller, finn hague, Maddie Phillips, and Mari Cutler. 13 year olds: sam dennis, Lillia Thompson, Autumn handscombe and Billy Cutler. 14 years and under: emma Boost, Ben raynor and Kiera Williams, open: Katie Tompkins, Carl halford, Chris Murphy, Claudia Grant-dawson, rebecca Grogan, Thomas Allen and Melissa dolby Very well done to all the swimmers
with a special mention to Jake Maskell (8) and Max Thomas (10) as this was their very first swim gala and with fellow team swimmers Jack Williams (10) and Adam Thompson (10) they came third in the boys 10 and under 4x25m freestyle relay. Also to Melisa dolby who won double points by playing the joker card in the Ladies open 100m freestyle. dolphins now have a weekend off competing at gala’s, and will be celebrating the Clubs 25th Anniversary at oasis pool in Bedford – they just can’t stay out of the water for too long!
Whispering grass is ‘fine’ art
hiGher National diploma fine Arts students from Bedford College have been installing outdoor exhibits in the grounds of old Warden Park. The works were all inspired by the beautiful grounds which house shuttleworth College part of www.bedford.ac.uk Lauren Martin from Bedford recycled books and positioned them around a tree where they will be weathered-in to demonstrate the re-cycling of life. she has already won a commission to design the stage set for a play being staged at Bedford Corn exchange later in the year. Lucy Cousins of sandy created a straw pig called Gloria, and positioned it down-wind of a real piggery which is part of the farm and land-based education campus near Biggleswade. Tamika hibbert of Bedford created two leaves to be viewed across an expanse of grassland between the trees. Tia hibbert has created a series of faces inspired by nature to blend in with the natural environment. Karen hughes of Milton Keynes learned how to blacksmith wrought iron and make
stained glass to create her kinetic sculpture which sits in front of the famous Warden Pear trees which have been saved from extinction by shuttleworth lecturer Paul Labous. The pear dNA dates back to the 13th Century and was mentioned by shakespeare in one of his plays. rebecca fraser of Wixams created pinecone-shaped pears which are coloured to reflect the seasons in the gardens and grounds of shuttleworth. rosie Zieinski of Bedford intertwined moss into the bark of a majestic sweet Chestnut tree at shuttleworth one very special project by a student who prefers to remain anonymous is a ‘sound scape’ where the talents of the art and design, electrical, and media departments were combined to record the popping sound of sap rising, sheep bleating, trees swaying in the breeze – all combined with the working environment of tractors, chainsaws and outdoor education students splashing about on the water. head of Art at Bedford College Alan Parsons said: “This is a fantastically creative piece of art which has used blended concept
awareness, electronics and sound editing technology to create a symphony of sounds of shuttleworth. it will be on the college website soon. “The whole project has challenged students to think in ways which takes art education at Bedford College on to the higher level required by the best universities and those who commission art.” Want to take your creative skills to a higher plain? Go to www.bedford.ac.uk
For more information on the areas covered and advertisement rates please call Pat on 07724 905406 advertising@rosettapublishing.com Lauren and her re-cycle of life work.
Rosie with her bark art.
Rebecca of Wixams created pine cones in pear colours.
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MID BEDS BULLETIN JULY 2016 — 11
out & about Castle Comedy has a bumper July planned, with not one but two brilliant shows! The first show is on July 4th at George’s Hall Bar & Grill, Biggleswade and the second is on July 28th at the state-of-theart The Quarry Theatre at St Luke’s, Bedford as part of the Bedfringe Festival. The show on Monday July 4th is a double edinburgh preview special where 2 acts perform their brand new 1-hour shows. headlining the show is ‘snog, Marry, Avoid’ star
Ellie Taylor! ellie is fast becoming the darling of the UK comedy scene. she is bright, funny and fabulous! she has made numerous TV appearances including The John Bishop show (BBC1), Channel 4’s 8 out of 10 Cats and Mock The Week (BBC2). “Radiates natural charisma… blessed with great flair” The Guardian “Smart, self-mocking and telegenic, it’s hard to see what else is going to stand in Taylor’s way.” The Scotsman opening the show is Paul revill the regular host of Castle Comedy. he will be previewing his edinburgh show, revillations! The Best Of Castle Comedy Special on Thursday July 28th sees three of the biggest stars from the UK comedy circuit taking the stage for the ultimate comedy show! opening the show is Paul Sinha. he is best know for his
starring role in iTV1’s The Chase, where he regularly chases down opponents in his guise as ‘The sinnerman’. he won the Chortle award for ‘Best Club Comic’ in 2014. ‘Wonderfully inventive and intelligent’ Evening Standard Next up is Adam Kay, one of the greatest musical comedians on the UK comedy circuit. he has had over 10 million hits on youTube
(including the iconic London Underground song) and is a regular on The Now show (radio 4). Closing the show is Gary Delaney. Gary is a razor sharp oneliner comedian, who is a regular guest star on Mock The Week (BBC2) and is widely regarded as being the most quotable comic on the circuit. The shows sell out quickly so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment! July 4th - Doors open 6.30pm, Show starts at 8.00pm and tickets are £8 (£6 NUS) or £18, which includes a pre show meal and glass of wine at George’s Hall Bar & Grill. July 28th - Doors open 7.30pm, Show starts at 8.00pm and tickets are £12. To book call 07736 060541 or online at www.castlecomedy.co.uk Castle Comedy – Bringing Comedy royalty to Bedfordshire.
St John’s Starlight Walk 24 September 2016
Join our Starlight Walk around the grounds and local countryside for a night of remembrance and entertainment. Gates open 8pm Start 10pm
Adults £20 Children £10 Family ticket (2 adults 2 children) £55
k 10k & 5s e t rou
www.sueryder.org/stjohns/starlightwalk
Sue Ryder is a charity registered in England and Wales (1052076) and in Scotland (SC039578). Ref. No. 05020 © Sue Ryder. April 2016
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theatre c
the grove theatre Treats for lovers of live music
Comedy theatre double bill
Grove Theatre July – October 2016
for music lovers who could think of nothing better than a good night of rock ‘n’ roll, then look no further than the Grove Theatre, dunstable, where the line-up of live music is sure to get you rocking. if you are a fan of an 80s stalwart then grab your place amongst the crowd for Never 42, an established forerunner tribute band to Level 42. on Saturday 9 July at 7.30pm, 7 band members – howie rogers (bass & vocals), Garreth hicklin (keyboard & vocals), Mike Wheeler (drums & vocals), Tom Wright (guitar & vocals), Pete effamy (sax), richard Pardy (sax) and darren Wiles (trumpet), will give you an unforgettable, high impact night of funk driven tunes, including hits such as Lessons in Love, something About you and The sun Goes down. or maybe you like living Life in the fast Lane, and the world’s official no. 1 eagles tribute will win your attention? The Illegal Eagles have gained mass acclaim, on an international level for their ability to recreate the distinctive sound of The eagles with both flare and impressive authenticity. The illegal eagles promise more tight harmonies, acute attention to detail and incredible showmanship on Friday 30 September at 7.30pm, bringing you all the classics – hotel California, Take it easy, Lyin’ eyes and many more. This latest production also features a special tribute to the late Glenn frey, one of the original founding members of The eagles. if it’s hard to decide on just one act, then prepare yourself for the ultimate rock compilation show on Saturday 1 October at 7.30pm. One Night of Rock is an all-new, audio-visual rock experience featuring non-stop, powerhouse performances and an awesome laser show that your eyes and ears won’t believe. expect full-on, air-punching, arm-waving, foot-stomping, headbanging, chorus-singing rock anthems from: Bon Jovi, Queen, The rolling stones, Meat Loaf, Led Zeppelin, Guns n roses, The Who, AC/dC and more! The choice is yours. Ticket prices vary; for more information or to book, call the Box office on 01582 60 20 80 or visit the website at www.grovetheatre.co.uk.
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast JR Thursday 11 August and Friday 12 August 7pm Saturday 13 August 3pm & 7pm
Join local youths as they stage a timeless production of disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr. filled with magical fantasy, popular characters such as Belle, Gaston, The Beast, and Lumière, the show also features all the wonderful and well-loved songs from the disney movie, including Beauty and the Beast sung by the charming Mrs Potts. Grove Production Project is an exciting annual experience offering up to 100 young people the chance to work with a professional artistic, creative and technical team to stage a musical production at the Grove Theatre.
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Friday 29th and Saturday 30th July
This summer Pulloxhill players present a comedy double bill featuring Airfield, a bitter sweet one act play by Bob Tucker and Last Tango in Pulloxill an adaptation of david Tristam’s hilarious tale of a an amateur drama group’s bid to survive. Airfield Lucy and fred Larkspur are off on their first holiday abroad after years of venturing no further than Clacton on sea. Lucy is longing to see the world and has chosen young yetti Airlines to transport her, and her somewhat reluctant husband, to
Live & Encore Screenings Live & encore screenings not only bring you productions from the West end without having to travel to London, but also provide the build-up and preparation of the show, as well as behind the scenes footage of the production with live screenings. feel involved in the buzz surrounding the performance, all from the comfort of your local Grove Theatre, dunstable. for the romantics in you; Romeo & Juliet – surely it would be a crime not to see the classic romeo & Juliet at least once in life? or for others, the chance to see it again, but this time treating yourself to the latest modern version. The
Until September
events t
Celebrating British wool – Fibre-East
Redborne Upper School, Flitwick Road, Ampthill, Bedford MK45 2NU 30th/31st July 2016
fibre-east, a celebration of British wool, is now in its sixth year and for the fourth year running, will be based at redborne Upper school. The aim of fibre-east is to promote and support the crafts of knitting, crochet, felting, dyeing, spinning, weaving and other hand crafts using all manner of materials, both natural and handmade. There will be a huge number of vendors selling yarn, fibre, equipment and accessories – anything and everything you would need for these crafts plus more! With the popularity of crafting on the increase, a visit to fibre-east is guaranteed to leave you inspired! Many of the stallholders not only demonstrate throughout the weekend, but also are also more than happy to answer any questions. it’s a fun and friendly event that the whole family can enjoy. Local spinning and weaving guilds will be in attendance at fibre-east again this year.
Kenneth Branagh Theatre Company presents a new, highly passionate vision of shakespeare’s heartbreaking tale of forbidden love, broadcast live on Thursday 7 July at 7.15pm. The longstanding feud between Verona’s Montague and Capulet families brings devastating consequences for two lovers caught in the conflict. for fans of figures of stage and screen; Richard III will see The Almeida Theatre make its screening debut with an explosive adaptation of this tale, featuring ralph fiennes as shakespeare’s most notorious villain and Vanessa redgrave as Queen Margaret. With an encore broadcast on Wednesday 17 August at 7.30pm, richard iii follows war-torn england as it is reeling after years of bitter conflict. King edward is ailing, and as
experienced crafters will be more than happy to demonstrate their skills and let you try out a new craft. The Bedfordshire Guild of Weavers, spinners and dyers and the Guild of Long draw spinners will be demonstrating how many spinners it takes to ‘feed’ a weaver. you may be invited to help them prepare fibre ready for spinning. Alongside our popular and informative sheep shearing demonstrations, this year we are very lucky to have demonstrations of medieval crafts from the society of Creative Anachronism – insulae draconis and their volunteers will also be in period costume. Not only will they be demonstrating various crafts, they would welcome the opportunity to let visitors try a whole variety of traditional crafts. you will find their website here www.insulaedraconis.org. There is wheelchair friendly access and plenty of free parking. Professional caterers in a large marquee will be delivering on-site catering and the devon Cream Tea is fabulous! hot and cold food will be served throughout the weekend. it really is a wonderful weekend, whatever the weather! Please visit our website www.fibre-east.co.uk for further information or email info@fibreeast.co.uk
For more information on the areas covered and advertisement rates please call Pat on 07724 905406 advertising@rosettapublishing.com
Barcelona for a week. Their adventure starts at Long Chutney Airport. What could possibly go wrong? Last Tango in Pulloxhill The group’s membership has dwindled to four – the audiences aren’t much bigger – and if they don’t come up with some rent money soon, they’re going to be thrown out. “There’s only one thing that sells tickets these days” argues Gordon the Chairman. “sex!”. Thus begins the chaotic build-up to an evening of extraordinary homegrown drama – an evening the locals would never forget! Performances friday 29th and saturday 30th July, £12 ticket price includes a fish and chip supper. Ticket sales phone 01525 751403 / 719575
political unrest begins to stir once more, edward’s brother richard – vicious in war, despised in peacetime – awaits the opportunity to seize his brother’s crown. To add fuel to the fire of power; Cymbeline will be broadcast live on Wednesday 28 September at 7pm. The royal shakespeare Company brings you the tale of Cymbeline, a ruler of divided Britain, who banishes the lover of his only living heir after their secret marriage. But is this what he should be focusing on? As a powerful figure lurks, plots are being hatched to seize power and murder them both. A dangerous journey is embarked upon to reunite the lost heir and reconcile the young lovers, whilst defending the throne. View a live or encore screening and find out about a new way to enjoy theatre.
Bedford River Festival – one month to go! Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th July
People travel from all over the world to attend this event, which is just on your doorstep if you live in the borough! Bedford’s hugely popular river festival will take place on saturday 16th – sunday 17th July. The 2014 festival saw visitor’s numbers reach an amazing 250,000 and with over 100 boats already signed up this year’s event promises to be bigger than ever! With less than a month to go there are still places available in the river festival Carnival Parade on sunday 17th July. The parade, sponsored by Tesco, will be led by the critically acclaimed Bedford Pipe Band as it travels down de
Parys Avenue and The embankment. To make the event more fun for both participants and spectators, vehicles will once again be permitted in the parade so participants will be able to walk or organise a float. As always there is no obligation for those in the parade to follow a theme, but as 2016 marks the 850th anniversary of the Bedford Borough royal Charter this might a good place to draw ideas from when it comes to costumes and decorations. To find out more or book your place visit https://www.bedfordcornexchange.c o.uk/outdoorevents/
As well as the parade, events on the river include the ever popular illuminated boat parade; the kayak slalom; a Jet Boots displays and the river swim. in addition, the river festival hosts two new events this year, a hoover craft display and a paddle board race. Twenty two dragon Boat teams and twenty two
raft race teams have already signed up, but places are still available for those wishing to take part. This year, in celebration of the 850th anniversary of Bedford Borough being granted royal charter, there will be a heritage Village on Castle Mound recreating 11th century Bedford. events across the weekend include battle reenactments, weapons demonstrations and storytelling. The Bedford river festival is free to the public and offers numerous opportunities to participate in, or just to relax and enjoy shows and performances from over 65 local bands and groups across three stages on the a 105 acre site. Programmes are now available at the Tourist information Centre (TiC), at No.13 and within borough libraries. for more information visit www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk
TEL: 07724 905406 ADS: dave@rosettapublishing.com
Flitwick Classic Car & Bike Show once again we are opening our field gates for the prestigious Annual Classic Car & Bike show at the rufus Centre on sunday 7 August. if you’re looking for an event that has it all for vintage vehicle enthusiasts with plenty of ‘family fun’ then look no further! There’s an expected line-up of over 160 classic cars, a great selection of bikes, commercial vehicles and auto jumble stalls, which will keep you entertained for hours. exhibitors will be sprucing up their much-loved vehicles in the hope that they will be triumphant in winning the ‘Best in Class’ or even ‘Best in show’ trophy! Car Clubs from the Luton & dunstable MG
Sunday 7 August 12–4pm
owners, Chiltern Vehicle Preservation Group and the singers will be there too. All exhibitors will be presented with rally plaques when leaving the field at 4pm. The day has a real community festival feel, which over the past seven years has attracted between 1000 and 2000 visitors. The fun doesn’t stop with classic cars and bikes, families can come along and enjoy the live music from ‘Three’s Company’, browse the stalls, have some fun with water zorbs, get their face painted plus there’s Magic shows at 1pm & 2pm to look forward to. if you want to enter your car (£3) please do so before 15 July Please note you must pre-book to guarantee entry due to the rising popularity of the show and exhibitors are required to stay in position from 12 noon – 4pm.
MID BEDS BULLETIN JULY 2016 — 13
The Rise, Fall and Rise Again of the Cardington Airships
An illustrated talk by Bedford Town Guide and local historian David Fowler
8pm Wednesday November 23, 2016 The Church of the Transfiguration Church Hall Bedford Road, Kempston MK42 8DW Entrance £5 on the door For more information call: 07894 935952
Promoted by: KemPston Camera Club
14 — MID BEDS BULLETIN JULY 2016
TEL: 07724 905406
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
TEL: 07724 905406 ADS: dave@rosettapublishing.com
MID BEDS BULLETIN JULY 2016 — 15 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
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Friday 15 - Sunday 17 July, 12.30pm - 5pm
Guided tours in the Park
Watermill, Tearoom and Nature reserve open as well
• Sunday 18th September
STOTFOLD MILL events in Ampthill Great Park to celebrate the ART EXHIBITION & TERCENTENARY SALE OF CAPABILITY Mill Lane, Stotfold, SG5 4NU BROWN 2016 free entry and parking
Paintings by local artists www.stotfoldmill.com
AMPThiLL MeThodisT ChUrCh
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CHARITY CONCERT
november 11th and 12th for Autism Bedford and Carers in Bedfordshire. Tickets are £5 Adults £3 per child. Available threw the school, and fairies and frogs, Church street, Ampthill.
––––––––––––––––––––––– sT JohN’s hosPiCe forthcoming events
GARDEN OF MEMORIES
17 July – 1.00pm – 5.00pm
A summer memorial event to be held in the grounds with the opportunity to purchase sunflower plaques with you loved ones name.
ART EXHIBITION
20 -21 July To be held at st John’s hospice. Visit www.sueryder.org/stjohns for more.
BUSK TILL DUSK
13 August – 3.00pm -10.00pm
Come and experience 20 Acts performing across 3 stages in this one day music festival. This summer event is guaranteed to be a great day out for all. To book your tickets go to www.sueryder.org/busktilldusk
COUNTRY FAYRE
14 August – 11.00am – 4.30pm
Come along to st John’s hospice country fayre and enjoy a day of best attractions including vintage cars, birds of prey, archery, craft stalls, dog show, food court and much more. www.suryder.org/countryfayre
STARLIGHT WALK
24 September - 8.00pm walk starts at 10.00pm
A 10k and 5k walk around the hospice grounds and local area. A wonderful night full of fun, and memories. sign up now to take advantage of our early bird offer. email stjohnsfundraising@sueryder.org for more.
CHARITY BALL 12 november – 7pm – 1.00am
our yearly ball will be taking place at The Park inn hotel Bedford. Get your glam rags ready and register your interest.
• tuesday 21st June
starting from West Car Park, Guided tours will show and explain the Capability Brown features of the Park. Tours will be available from 10am – 4pm and start every half hour.
A short ,one hour, easy terrain walk, a more challenging medium walk for up two hours and a longer walk are available. There will be a display of the Brown features of the Park and Cream teas & refreshment available –––––––––
Sunday 3rd July
AMPTHILL FESTIVAL 2016
The Best of British. Capability Brown display at the Ampthill Gala day. –––––––––
7.30-8.00pm Friday 16th September CAPABiLiTy BroWN
THE EYECATCHER
A one man theatrical show about ‘England’s greatest gardener’ performed by John Cobb
Parkside hall Ampthill MK45 2hX Tickets £10, purchased from Ampthill Town Council, 01525 404355 & council@ampthilltowncouncil.org.uk Ampthill Park hub & stationery Boutique Ampthill –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
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.
Email: stjohnsfundraising@sueryder.org
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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For further info call 01767 642412
16 — MID BEDS BULLETIN JULY 2016
TEL: 07724 905406
Bedford hospital closure proposals postponed
tWo reports into the future of Bedford Hospital have arrived at different conclusions – and there is a third on the way.
The Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes healthcare review panel has proposed closing a number of services in Bedford, as part of an ongoing study into the future of health services across the region. This includes closing maternity services in Bedford and moving them to Milton Keynes. But the panel has since said they are postponing all plans on legal advice. This follows public anger at the proposals, from all shades of the political spectrum. richard fuller, MP for Bedford and Kempston, said: “it should be blindingly obvious to residents of Bedford that in a county town like ours we should
safeguard out maternity unit. i have heard the review has been paused. it should be killed off.” Liberal democratic Mayor of Bedford, dave hodgson, called the plans utterly unacceptable. The borough council also commissioned its own review, carried out by PriceWaterhouse Coopers (PWC), at a cost of £169,000. The main recommendation of this review is that the borough and the hospital would merge health and social care, which would mean the hospital does not have to cut its core services. A statement by Bedford Borough Council said: “By integrating health and social care we
can introduce a solution that improves services for local residents, reduces costs and saves local services.” A third report, by Nhs england is expected to report shortly. executive Member with responsibility for health on Central Beds Council, Maurice Jones (pictured right), speaking on the PWC report, said: “The future of health care services is clearly an important issue for local people and for those who represent them. Next week the Joint Committee will look at options for Bedford and MK hospitals ahead of a formal consultation later in the year. i’m sure the
Staying Sun Safe in Bedfordshire
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Bursaries for ‘A’ Level students
sTUdeNTs with the best GCse passes could benefit from a £4,000 bursary to study A Levels at The Bedford sixth form.
The Academic excellence Bursary scheme will be an incentive for 16-year-olds to leave school and study at Bromham road, Bedford. in only three years The Bedford sixth form has grown already to be the fourth largest local sixth form after Bedford College, shuttleworth College and sharnbrook Upper. it is for those aged 16+ only and a 100% focus on sixth form study. The latest school performance tables show that The Bedford sixth form has the joint highest average A Level grades in the area (with sharnbrook and redborne); has by far the highest proportion of students getting 3 proposals developed by PWC and the borough council will be con- A-Levels of any local sixth form, and is one of only two sixth forms sidered as part of that process. that adds value locally (equivalent to an extra grade in comparison with many sixth forms). “The Bedford sixth form recruits from a wide catchment and coming to a new college brings with it additional costs. We want more people to benefit from this first class sixth form experience, so in addition to our wide range of student support packages our charitable trust is generously supporting a new Academic excellence Bursary scheme. “The purpose of the scheme is to ensure our highest-performing students are not distracted by having to look for work to meet travel and other costs. This is therefore not means tested,” said the head of The Bedford sixth form Paul Clarkson (pictured). To qualify for the Bursary, you must: have at least 8 GCses A*B including english Language and Mathematics, with at least four GCses at A* or A, ANd study our full-time A-Level or equivalent Level 3 programme at The Bedford sixth form. The Bursary is not means-test-
ELIGIBILITY
Do you know how to stay safe in the summer sun? It is far too easy to get carried away in the excitement of the lovely weather and not think about the consequences to your health. The Bedfordshire Local Resilience Forum is keen for you to know the risks and how to prepare yourself. Here are some simple precautions you can take to make sure you can enjoy the weather rather than suffer the consequences of it: n Check the weather forecast for peak temperatures n Stay out of the direct sun between 11.00 am and 3.00 pm n Wear loose-fitting clothing, a wide brimmed hat and use a high factor sunscreen n Avoid strenuous exercise like jogging n Keep your house cool by opening windows and using fans n Move into cool rooms, draw curtains and use fans to cool down n Drink plenty of water or fruit juice but not alcohol, tea and coffee n Eat normally, but eat foods containing more water such as salads and fruit n Take a lukewarm shower or bath or sponge yourself regularly with cold water n If you have older relatives and neighbours, check that they are aware and know what actions to take How do you know when you’re starting to suffer from the sun? Heat exhaustion occurs when our body temperature rises above 37°C (98.6°F). Be aware of signs of dizziness, nausea, muscle weakness or cramps and a high temperature. If someone suffers these symptoms, take them to a cool place, give them plenty of cool water or fruit juice to drink, not tea, coffee or alcohol, and remove any excess clothing. If they don’t feel better within half an hour, dial 999 for an
ambulance. While waiting, continue to try to keep them cool by fanning them. If they’re conscious, give them cool, but not cold, water to drink. If heat exhaustion is not treated early enough, it could develop into heat stroke which is much more serious and life-threatening. Someone might have heat stroke if they are experiencing headaches, nausea, intense thirst, rapid breathing, sleepiness, hot, red and dry skin and a sudden rise in temperature. They may also be experiencing confusion, be aggressive, have convulsions and partial or full loss of consciousness. Immediately dial 999 for an ambulance. While waiting, if you are able, move them to a cool place, remove excess clothing and fan them. If they are conscious, give them cool, but not cold, water to drink. How to be prepared in Bedfordshire Find out more about preventing heat stroke and heat exhaustion at: bit.ly/1NsU4Xa Follow the Met Office blog for more details on the summer weather: http://bit.ly/27OrGdZ Visit the BLRF website: bllrf.org.uk Find us on Facebook: facebook.com/whatwouldyoudoif Follow us on Twitter: @what_would
ed and is available to anyone who meets the criteria.
you will be paid £2,000 for each year of the course, up to a maximum of £4,000. in each year of the two year course, payment will be made as follows: 1st November: £500 1st January: £500 1st March: £500 1st May: £500 The money will be paid directly into your bank account by BACs, so if you do not already have a bank account you will need to set one up.
HOW IT WORKS
you do not need to apply for the Bursary. When you come to enrol and bring your exam results in, you will be advised if you are eligible and, if so, asked to complete a contract form.
HOW DO I APPLY?
you will have to sign a ‘contract’ with us to confirm that you will attend all lessons regularly and punctually, work hard towards your qualifications, complete all your assignments on time and behave in accordance with The Bedford sixth form code of conduct. Available to home fee status students only.
ANYTHING ELSE?
No more throwing a ‘sicky’
PCC Kathryn holloway says the UK’s first live trial on video is the way ahead to bringing criminals to justice who have previously tried to evade the courts. her comments came after farouk Kootbaully, 71, of Luton, was sentenced to ten years in prison for sexually abusing a child over several years. Kootbaully was the first defendant in the UK to face examination via a video link from his home, having claimed ill health prevented him from attending a court trial. he faced eight charges of indecent assault on a child between April 1988 and August 2001, starting when the girl was just eight-years-old. “This conviction is a tribute to the relentless dedication of the investigating officer dC sharon ellis who would not take no for an answer when it came to bringing this man to trial, in view of his sickening predatory behaviour towards this child, which has hung over her for more than 15 years. “Bedfordshire Police used the video link from the defendant’s home to bring his testimony before the judge and jury and it paid off in what is a legal first in the UK. This also shows abusers of children from some years ago
that there is nowhere to run to – you will be held to account and the excuses of the past will not prevent you from being punished for that past anymore,” said Commissioner holloway. Kootbaully, who had pleaded not guilty for the offences, was found guilty by a jury in unanimous verdicts on all eight counts. he will now serve sentences concurrently on all eight charges, totalling ten years behind bars. he was also made subject of a sexual harm Prevention order and restraining order. dC ellis described the precedent set by the case saying: “This is the first time in the whole of the UK that Assistive Technology has been used to enable a defendant to attend trial via his home address.” The court had provided temporary internet access to his home and fitted a live-link facility from his bed to enable Kootbaully to give evidence. “Just because time has passed does not mean the original crime has diminished or does not deserve punishment. This child, now a woman, deserved justice even if she had to wait for new technology to allow her to see it being done,” said Commissioner holloway.
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