BULLETIN AMPTHILL•FLITWICK•WESTONING•HARLINGTON•TODDINGTON
MARCH 2017
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BUILDING BRIDGES
Most of those who visit the village of Cardington little realise that they cross an engineering landmark when they come from the a421. For the small, five-arched, humped bridge that crosses Cardington Brook was designed and engineered by John smeaton (1724 – 1792) in 1778. Known as the ‘Father of Civil engineering’, he is best known for the design and construction of the eddystone Lighthouse. Often when i drive over the bridge, i reflect on the nature of bridge building. smeaton’s bridge serves as a symbol of that relationship building that is so important for nurturing strong, inclusive community. Last month the bridge in tadcaster near York was re-opened, having been rebuilt
BRINGING BACK EYES AND EARS
“having been your Police and Crime Commissioner since May last year, i am delighted to announce the best news i feel i could give to the residents of Bedfordshire. the Chief Constable, Jon Boutcher, and i are in the process of rolling out an uplift of virtually 10% in our Frontline and are bringing Community Policing – the eyes and ears of policing – back to the county. During my administration we recruited 96 police officers over the last financial year and are recruiting 100 more right now, in six intakes from July this year. even when retirements and leavers are taken into account, we expect our Frontline to increase from 1026 officers to 1126 paid for by a combination of our existing Government funds, council tax and internal savings. Good housekeeping and diligent use
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View from the Rt Revd
Richard Atkinson
The Bishop of Bedford
after it was swept away in the floods at the end of 2015. suddenly what had been divided was reconnected; the gulf that is the river was once again bridged. all too often in our lives and in our world there are those rivers of divide which separate peoples and nations; divisions that more often than not are only healed by patient mediation and bridge building. it is the work of places like Corrymeela in Northern ireland who for years have persistently worked at reconciliation between
Update from the
Police & Crime Commissioner by Kathryn Holloway
of the budget means i have £720,000 more to spend on your policing in the coming financial year. since taking over the role of PCC, my absolute priority has been increasing the visibility of the Force and your access to officers. You may have seen that, on Monday February 13 2016, i held a public meeting at ampthill, with senior officers and the local dedicated PC, aaron Dagley, to confirm that a police presence is coming back to the town - after its police
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
the Catholic and Protestant communities. it is the counsellors, mediators and reconcilers in our world who patiently rebuild bridges between those who are estranged.
this is no easy task. One of the quotations i recall is that ‘the problem with being a bridge is that people walk over you from both sides’. George Mitchell, the american senator, who negotiated much of the Good Friday agreement in Northern ireland, remarked on how, at any one time, either the Catholics or the Protestants would be absent from the room. Yet he persisted and helped build the bridge. as a Christian, bridge building – being a reconciler – is at the heart of what God desires of me; the God who in Jesus knew the cost of seeking to reconcile humankind with their heavenly Father. Whatever our beliefs, that call to be bridge builders is before us all. Where in your life, your community, can you build bridges? station closed – who will be based, as i promised, alongside their fire service colleagues at the fire station. PC Dagley will be joined by the head of the Watches, PCsO Juliet Wright and her visiting colleagues from Neighbourhood Watch, speedwatch, streetwatch etc. and an inspector and sergeant who work on collaboration with the fire service will hot-desk from there, backed by a community team, based at Biggleswade. this latest “Community hub” adds to those already announced for Leighton Buzzard, Luton, Bedford, Biggleswade, Dunstable and houghton regis.
sadly, none of this work can be recognised by our police watchdog – her Majesty’s inspectorate of Constabulary (hMiC) – who can only take it into account once completed and bedded in to show that it is making a difference. Please be reassured that, in the meantime, the Chief Constable and i are doing everything possible to strengthen policing of your communities.”
Charities benefit from Community Awards
Charities across Luton and Bedfordshire have been invited to apply for a cash boost from this year’s Community awards. Over the last seven years the awards have recognised and rewarded the magnificent teams and people who make up the vibrant, multicultural community across Luton and Bedfordshire. in that time, a host of charities have benefited from a combined total of £100,000, including the Luton & Dunstable hospital and Level trust to name just two. the money comes from donations from sponsors as well as fundraising on the night of the award presentations. Mostaque Koyes, the awards’ organiser, said: “this year, for the process of applying for what is likely first time, we are formalising the to be a substantial amount of money.
“it is possible that we could have a pot of around £20,000 and we want
to make sure it reaches the causes that best reflect the community aims and objectives of the awards.” a new form, available from Mostaque, asks for information on the aims and objectives of the charities, their approximate fundraising income and details how the charity applicant helps to benefit the local community in and around Luton and Bedfordshire. “We will also want to know how being the Community awards chosen charity for 2017 will benefit the charity and the people they seek to help so our committee can come to a decision.” For details of the Community awards visit www.communitycommunications.co.uk/awards
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Information evening for would-be volunteers Charges for
BeDFOrDshire Police is hosting an information evening for would-be special Constables.
the force’s next information evening will take place at Police headquarters in Woburn road, Kempston, on Monday 6 March from 7.30pm. the evening is a chance for members of the public interested in volunteering with the force to hear more about the special Constabulary from serving specials, as well as more about the application process. the special Constabulary is the UK’s volunteer police force. specials work closely with full time Police Officers and Police Community support Officers (PCsO’s) both to patrol Bedfordshire’s rural and urban communities, and volunteer in specialist units like the roads Policing . after completing their initial training and once they have taken their oaths, specials have a further two years of on the job tuition and support from experienced colleagues before they become independent. Wayne humberstone, special Constabulary Chief Officer, said: “Our special Constabulary does a fantastic job, working hard to support their colleagues on the front line in protecting people, fighting crime and keeping Bedfordshire safe. Now we are looking to expand our numbers, and intend to host regular information evenings throughout the year so
lock ins and lock outs
Specials Chief Officer - Wayne Humberstone
the public can find out more about what it takes to be a special.” special Constables must be over 18 and able to commit a minimum of 16 hours a month to the role, although
Bedfordshire’s specials volunteer an average of 28 hours a month. to register for the information evening on 6 March, call: 07590465193.
BeDFOrDshire Fire and rescue service is now charging to attend nonemergency calls to release people from lifts, lock outs and lock ins. Group Commander steve allen explained: “Over the past five years Bedfordshire Fire and rescue service has been called to more than 1,700 people stuck in lifts and locked in and locked out of premises. Many of these turn out to be non-emergencies. this constitutes a potential cost to local taxpayers in the region of half a million pounds over the period. it also means Firefighters are not available to deal with other genuine emergencies. “anyone dialling 999 requesting Fire service assistance for a person stuck in a lift or locked in or out of their homes or car, where there is no immediate threat to life, threat of injury or a medical emergency, will be informed that they will be expected to cover the costs of call-out and attendance. “trained Operators in Fire Control will determine if the incident is an emergency, if so appropriate crews will be mobilised. if the situation is not an emergency the caller will be reassured and advised on how they can resolve the problem and if necessary provided with telephone numbers for organisations who can arrange a local locksmith or contractors.”
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MID BEDS BULLETIN MARCH 2017 — 5
Last nut tightened on skills centre
CeNtraL Bedfordshire College’s construction and engineering students proudly tightened the last nut on the steel frame for the College’s new skills and technology Centre currently being built in Chartmoor road in Leighton Buzzard. the event marked a key milestone in the construction of the site which is due for completion in July and will be opening its doors to students in september 2017. Key stakeholders turned out in the cold, to demonstrate their support for the project which is designed to support the growing skills needs of the area; this is also at a time when there is significant population and economic growth forecast for the region. the right honourable andrew selous MP, who is a champion for skills development, attended the event alongside Captains of industry from British aerospace engineering, hone – all Precision and ashe Construction. Commenting on the progress made to date, he said: “i’m delighted to see Leighton Buzzard and Linslade’s new engineering and Construction skills Centre going up, to be ready for students this september. it’s a much needed facility for students and businesses locally, and i am delighted to see
taking shape.” Principal ali hadawi CBe said: “it was great to have our students involved in this event today as they are the engineers and technicians of the future who will benefit from this high-tech centre where they will gain advanced technical skills.” he continued: “the close involvement from industry means our students will gain industry relevant skills that they can take forward to university
or employment in any number of companies in the local area.” hilary Chipping, Deputy Chief executive of seMLeP, said: “this fabulous new facility represents a great opportunity for young people to develop their skills and prepare for the world of work. equipping our future workforce with the skills they need to access jobs locally is a perfect example of how Local Growth Deal funding can help to improve
productivity and make a long-lasting difference to our communities.” the £2.5 million centre which is a joint venture between Central Bedfordshire College and seMLeP, will house professionally equipped state-of-the-art workshops for the engineering, construction, motor vehicle and aerospace industries. applications are open for courses starting in september 2017 – visit centralbeds.ac.uk/courses to apply.
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TEL: 07724 905406
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Fidelity Design and Print has expanded to a larger print centre near Bedford company as they can now provide same day and next services across all print services. Their new print centre is open from 9-5 Monday - Friday for walk-in bureau services including plan printing, quick print and copy services and instant photo printing. There is plenty of parking, a comfortable waiting area with coffee bar and future developments will see the space become a ‘print knowledge centre’ for clients wanting to learn more about print. You can keep up to date with developments by following Fidelity on Facebook or joining their enewsletter at www.fidelityprint.co.uk
FIDELITY has been hoping to expand their Ampthill based business for a couple of years but suitable office space has been elusive. Fidelity MD Louise Hodge says “I set myself a New Year target to move in 2017 and already achieved my largest goal. Our new print centre in Wilstead Industrial Park is more accessible and gives us space to expand the creative design and digital print services we offer in house”. Fidelity’s move follows recent investment in the latest HP latex large-format printer which allows fast in-house production of outdoor banners, roller banners and wallpapers as well as small and internal signage. This is big step for the
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THE UK’s largest independent brewer, Charles Wells, ended its 140th year since the brewery opened, on a high announcing increased profits. Chief Executive of Charles Wells, Justin Phillimore, (pictured) said: “We had a great year celebrating our 140th year of brewing beer! “Highlights included Estrella Damm extended their distribution contract with us for a further five years, excellent profit growth across our managed houses in the UK and France, the launch of Charlie Wells Triple Hopped IPA and Bombardier Pale Ale, and ongoing investment in our leased and tenanted pubs to the tune of £3.7m, all equating to an increase in turnover across the business of £4.8m.
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Anti-social behaviour prompts closure notice at former pub
tODDiNGtON residents will be happy to hear that Op sentinel carried out yet another successful closure order. Officers attended a derelict public house known as Bedford arms in the village following a number of complaints from the residents about anti-social behaviour. those residing in the closed premises were reported to cause nuisance to the neighbourhood through loud noise and littering in the area. after police officers escorted the people present in the address, the building was secured and the site handed over to the lawful owner. inspector Jim Goldsmith from the Community team said: “Op sentinel continues to close properties used for criminal and anti-social behaviour and Bedford arms is now another one on the list of the successful actions of Bedfordshire Police. “We are dedicated to protecting our communities and we treat all
MID BEDS BULLETIN MARCH 2017 — 7
reports of crime seriously. We want to encourage our residents to come forward with information on the issues in their neighbourhood. as these actions have shown that we act on the intelligence submitted by the public.”
Op sentinel is a dedicated team which tackled antisocial behaviour related crimes including on and off street drug dealing and prostitution, street drinking and nuisance behaviour. if you wish to raise issues in your neighbourhood to our attention you can email us on Opsentinel@bedfordshire.pnn.p olice.uk or if you are a resident of central Bedfordshire on OpsentinelCentral@bedfordshire.p nn.police.uk .
remember that if you wish to record a crime always call 101 or 999 in case of emergency or if the crime is still in progress. You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
1991-2016 – 25 YEARS OF SWIMMING
this was the year that the Flitwick Dolphins swimming Club celebrated its silver anniversary and as ever, it was a packed year full of many competitions, special events and activities for each and every swimmer and club member, no matter what their age or ability. the ‘Gallery’ section on the club website is a pictorial journey of the year with fantastic photography capturing the essence of each and every moment and event. www.flitwickdolphins.org.uk
throughout the year there have also been a number of newly qualified asa technical officials and new volunteers to the existing team of volunteers and qualified officials. the club is very fortunate to have such a large contingent of parents that are prepared to give up their time to take up qualifications and also volunteering for non-technical roles. Without them the swimmers would not be able to compete and excel in what they do or have the opportunity to be able to reach their full potential. these volunteers are a highly valued section of the club, they are a very
large part of why the club is so special and why the swimmers are able to enjoy the sport as much as they do. the volunteers are just one part of the jigsaw that fit together with the other elements of the club that help make the Flitwick Dolphin swimming Club be so well organised and create an atmosphere in which everyone , swimmers and all club members thrive. here’s just a few comments and thoughts from some of the clubs swimmers: alexa Johnson – Flippers squad and now moving into Fins squad. “i really like swimming for Flitwick Dolphins, everyone is so friendly and i do work hard but really enjoy it. i had my first club champs last year and tried my best, i didn’t win a medal but the evening was so much fun and i cheered on my Flipper friends. i am making sure i attend all the sessions so i can win a medal soon. i’m moving up a group so will keep training hard as i have my first gala soon which is nerve wracking but exciting too”
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James handler – joined the club in 2016. “everyone at the club has helped me so much after my long break from swimming. i was worried that i could never get back into the sport, but all of the coaches and other members of Dolphins make me realise otherwise. after only five months at the club, i was invited to go on the camp to Crystal Palace, which massively improved my swimming, and opened my eyes to 50m pool. also, being given the chance to swim competitively, is another point that makes Flitwick such a great club to be a member of. a huge thanks to Nigel in particular for being such a motivational coach, and for inviting me into the senior squad at Flitwick straight away. he has made me realise my full potential as a swimmer, especially in the Butterfly and backstroke events, and for that, and for everything else the club has done for all of us, i am massively grateful” Liz Woolner
Masters Swimmer says this about the club
tWO things i really, really like about Flitwick Dolphins: Support for all – i feel that FDsC is a very inclusive, friendly and supportive club. i am very happy that the Masters section of the club has grown significantly over the past few years (11 swimmers at the regional championships and 5 in the Bedfordshire team at the intercounty masters in 2016). i am sure this is because FDsC is such a friendly club that supports swimmers of all ages and abilities. i have
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always felt to be part of the team even when i am the oldest (sometimes by many years!) training in the lane or in a competition. i also think FDsC does a fantastic job with its officials. the club supports them through their training and does all it can to provide the mentoring opportunities that are required to reach the next level. Celebrating success – i like the way FDsC celebrates success. Of course there is the fantastic awards evening where nearly everyone gets some sort of award and those that don’t can see what they need to aspire too. there is also the swimmer and coach of the month and all the wonderful press coverage that FDsC receives as a result of the clubs willingness to promote the success of its swimmers. there are also are the regular mails that share the results of each meet that FDsC swimmers have competed in with a list of PBs, records and medals so success is shared with everyone in the club. it’s nice when the club captains send out notes. and the Facebook page too… Over the 25years that the club has been running there has been an emphasis on ‘team spirit’. as well as nurturing individual successes for swimmers both at open meets and at county and regional swimming, the club fosters a strong support and encouragement network with the senior swimmers often encouraging and supporting the younger swimmers, especially at the younger swimmers’ first competitions. senior swimmers, over the years, have gone on to take courses in teaching and coaching as well as becoming asa qualified officials and this has greatly enriched the club and continued to make the club successful at all levels. the club is looking forward to the next 25 years of swimming, it’s an interesting thought to imagine that those swimmers who may become a part of the club in the future may not yet be born and, some, already in the club, may go on to become Masters swimmers, coaches, officials or parents of swimmers!
MID BEDS BULLETIN MARCH 2017 — 9
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TEL: 07724 905406
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Flitwick Beaver Scouts are friendly
BeaVers (boys and girls age 6 to 8) from Flitwick scout Group are working towards their animal Friend badge. One of the criteria for earning the badge included, ‘telling others about the animal.’ Jake Fensom decided he didn’t just want to tell other people how he looked after his pet, so he took it along so that other members of the Group could see and touch the animal. and the animal was… his pet snake! several of the children took a
step back when they saw it! Jake said: “i really like looking after my snake so it was great to be able to show it to some of my friends.” adult volunteer Louise rutt said, “scouting gives young people the opportunity to do lots of different activities and ‘getting up close and personal with a snake’ is one of them!” Plans for the Beavers for the next few months include working towards their disability awareness
badge, cooking and visiting Manor Park. the Cub scouts (boys and girls aged 8 to 10½) have recently made contact with a scout Group in spain and have been recording what they like about Cub scouting in Flitwick, ready to share with the Group in spain. they will be putting together a ‘pack’ of items to send to the spanish Group which will include a recipe for a Bedfordshire Clanger, a Flitwick Group neckerchief, a video
recording of pancake making, maps and information leaflets of the surrounding area. the Cubs are looking forward to receiving similar information from the spanish Group, as this will help them gain their international badge. the scouts (boys and girls aged 10½ to 14) will be doing some cooking, learning new skills, and working towards their emergency aid badge in the next few months. the Group have just revealed their census figures. they now have 197 young people aged between 6 and 14 in the Group which is an increase of almost 5% on last year. the Group has several young leaders (boys and girls aged 14 to 18) and they get the opportunity to develop leadership skills, help to plan the programme and run activities for the section they support. they are currently pro-actively looking at setting up an associated explorer Unit for boys and girls aged 14 to 18. For further information about Flitwick scout Group, please visit www.flitwickscoutgroup.org.uk
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MID BEDS BULLETIN MARCH 2017 — 11
FLITWICK BUSINESS BUZZ LAUNCHED The Mayor of Flitwick, Cllr. Phillip Thompson, opened the proceedings at the Swan, Flitwick in January. The next meeting is on Friday March 31st. For more details contact Ann Little: flitwick@business-buzz.org or 0333 355 0174 contained over 160 job vacancies. We also run a weekly drop in coffee stop at the Strudwicks Coffee Bar at the Milton Keynes Christian Conference Centre, on Strudwick Drive, Oldbrook, at 11am until 1pm on a Thursday 50 weeks a year (Closed on Christmas and New Year). This is to provide a more social type meeting getting people away from their computers and job search for an hour or two’s company of other members. Wednesday training sessions are held at Milton Keynes College, Bletchley Campus, usually in Room 232 and starts at 6.30pm during term time.
New healing retreat in Trinidad Ray Wilson, founder of Gentle Touch Healing, based in Silsoe, recently went out to Trinidad to open a healing retreat in the northern mountain area. He had been out six years ago to survey the land for the right energies for healing. He then helped with the design of the pyramid shaped roof to bring the building energy in line with Sacred Geometry and The Golden Ratio creating a ‘Golden Pyramid.’ Ray has plans of his own to build a Holistic Healing Centre in Bedfordshire based on the same principles.
Currently Gentle Touch Healing is a healing charity based at Wrest Park, which offers a free healing service. Healing is available each day of the week and at weekends. Please see their opening times at www.gentletouchhealing.org.uk
Local business - Bakeit freefrom Bakeit freefrom is based in Ampthill, and is an online business selling allergen free home baking kits. Business owner, Maggie Nicholls comments: “These are a unique concept as they are free from all 14 European Union listed food allergens and with every ingredient included to enable even the most amateur of cooks to easily produce the cake of choice.”
Bakeit freefrom is very much a new micro business, which having only launched in July 2015 has
just had some fantastic news their ginger cake kit has been shortlisted for an award in the National Free From Food Awards 2017. We will keep you posted as to whether Maggie has attained any further award, either ‘highly commended’ or even a ‘win’! www.bakeitfreefrom.com 07722 704752
Careers-Action for professionals, managers and newly qualified graduates Careers-Action is a Milton Keynes based charity whose objectives are to help professionals, managers and newly qualified graduates into work or get them to start their own business. Careers-Action started life in 2011 as a Community Interest Company which is a not for profit organisation. However, we realised it was very difficult to get grants to run the organisation as a CIC, Charity status being more appropriate. So after over a year forming a charity we became registered in early 2016. The organisation was set up by Melvin Hurley, somebody who had been made redundant a number of times and realised there was little professional help out there. The
way in which we help is to provide professional led support training to mid/senior managers and business professionals who are actively seeking work or facing redundancy or unemployment. Milton Keynes Council then asked us to assist newly qualified graduates as well. About 80 business professionals from around Milton Keynes and a few from much wider area help us to put on courses for members on a Wednesday Evening. The Business Professionals include accountants, networkers, HR Managers, Employment Agents, Interim Specialists etc.Membership is free as we are part of the Milton Keynes Council’s Neighbourhood Employment Programme. Occasionally we run day or half day sessions on subjects like the use of Linked In for job seeking and also for business start-ups or on interviews practice. 1-2-1 are sometimes held and occasionally more direct assistance for those who have particular needs. A weekly newsletter is sent out via email with news of things going on including details of the programme and a second email contains job adverts for members. The job advert email last Sunday
Being a small business doesn’t have to mean a small business Two part-time, Four full-time. One successful business. ICR Leasing is the perfect example to all those small businesses hoping to become a large profitable business without incurring high staffing costs. In 2011 ICR leasing found a unique gap in the market and decided to model a vehicle leasing company around helping other ‘smaller’ businesses. Their unique approach enabled them to specialise in looking after new start-ups, companies registered outside the UK and those with adverse balance sheets. Tired of hearing how entrepreneurs were being rejected on finance for not having historical accounts the Milton Keynes based Vehicle Leasing company created their own criteria. They call it the ‘sensibility factor’. Managing Director Stephen Holmes said: “We know that you don’t need to have a been trading for twelve months or more to be a successful business.” He then went on to say how ICR look for two key factors, ‘affordability and sustainability.’ In an ever-changing environment, with stricter rules constantly becoming common practice a refreshing approach to funding stands out from the crowd. ICR’s young, up and coming sales team, Will Chapman and Tom Ryan show a fantastically unique approach to growing business and relay on networking and referrals. This approach alone has helped grow the fleet size to over 500 vehicles. Another fantastic example of how ‘small’ business with big ideas can compete with the largest organisations. Being small in numbers really doesn’t mean small in size.
12 — MID BEDS BULLETIN MARCH 2017
TEL: 07724 905406
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Harlington Upper School news
We have had a great autumn term this year, and we definitely finished on a high with our sell-out musical production of Footloose. the excellent cast, supported by a superb school band, acted, danced and sang in what was a most enjoyable show. at the end of December, a team of sixth form students won the prestigious Cranfield Business Challenge coming top out of all the schools in Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes. Our Year 11 boys’ football team continued their successful run in the Fa schools’ National Cup by beating rickmansworth school, hertfordshire, 2-1, to progress to the last 16 out of 537 schools. We also received the great news that we are officially world class! the school was selected by the Dfe to participate in the international trends in international Mathematics and science study (tiMss). the good news is that our students compare well with students anywhere in the world. if harlington was a country we would be ranked 2nd overall in the world with only singapore doing better. in maths we would be ranked sixth of the 40 counties included in the study – the five countries ahead of us are all in the Far east. supporting Gifted and talented students has been a feature this term with visits to the Brilliant Club at Oxford University where our students received their graduation certificates for their work on the scholars Programme, together with trips to lectures at the Natural history Museum
and an art day to learn new skills in oil painting. the students continue to raise significant sums of money for charity through the house system. this year they are supporting Keech hospice Care, the teenage Cancer trust, Cancer research, alzheimer’s society, action for Children and the Make a Wish Foundation in December we were delighted to welcome local residents to a tea party hosted by our sixth
Form students. everyone had a good time and we are looking forward to getting together again soon. it is also time to say goodbye to two members of staff. Miss atkins, head of sixth Form, is leaving to take up an assistant headship after ten years at harlington. Miss rolph, Pastoral support assistant, is also leaving the europa/theseus house team to embark on a year of travelling. We wish both departing colleagues
best wishes and good luck for the future. Much more has happened than we have space to report here, but we are trying to capture and share the many events at harlington through twitter. We also tweet important notices, so please follow us: @harlingtonUpper. Our Facebook page can be found at www.facebook.com/harlingtonUpper school/ Shawn Fell – Headteacher
An amazing amount! Birding in Bedfordshire at this time of year, when the weather can vary from hour to hour, the easy option is to sit watching television or reading a book. these can both be very enjoyable pursuits but they can’t replace the pleasure that can be gained from being outside and experiencing the natural world for yourself. Going for a walk with a pair of binoculars in hand can be a wonderful distraction from a busy life or give a new interest that can last a lifetime. this is a good time to get out and about whilst we still have many winter visi-
the Big Cheque made its appearance again last month when Poplars Chairman John Little proudly presented it to irene Chadwick from the toddington branch of the NsPCC. each year, £1 from every entry to santa’s Grotto at Poplars is donated to this wonderful charity and this year, Poplars were extremely proud to be able to make the cheque out for the grand sum of £2,010! hundreds of children visit the Grotto at Poplars every year and it seems very fitting that those lucky children who get to see santa, with the
help of their families, help to raise money for children who may never get to see santa or have never had a proper Christmas. Donating just £2/month will help the NsPCC Childline counsellors be there 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to listen when a child finds the courage to call or £5/month will help give a child in distress or danger a place to turn. so with these statistics in mind, the fantastic amount of money raised by Poplars and their wonderful customers will make a huge difference to many children’s lives indeed.
tors such as Fieldfare, redwing and maybe even Waxwing if you are lucky. Birds can be easier to see when the trees are bare and the grass and crops are quite short. Before long our summer visitors will arrive and the best time to see these is in early spring while they are singing for mates and nest building. in our county we have a friendly local rsPB group based in Bedford who meet at least once a month. More details can be found at www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford
Circus celebrations for ‘Thinking Day’
ON sunday February 20, Linleighbridge District Girl Guides celebrated World thinking Day in Leighton Buzzard. Celebrated since 1926, World thinking Day, on February 22nd, is a day of international friendship, speaking out on issues that affect girls and young women, and fundraising for 10 million Girl Guides and Girl scouts around the world. Over 100 girls and 30 leaders attended the circus themed event which saw the girls making lots of fantastic arts & crafts, practising
their juggling skills and putting on a mini show!
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MID BEDS BULLETIN MARCH 2017 — 13
out & about chance to WiN! Poptastic smash hit stage show solid Gold 70s is coming to Dunstable win a pair of tickets to see this hit-packed spectacular. simply answer the questions to the groovy solid Gold 70s pop quiz below to be in with a chance of seeing the show of the year for free.
Win a pair of tickets to the Solid Gold 70s Grove Theatre, Dunstable 8pm Saturday April 8
reviving the golden age of pop, the brand new stage show features a multi-talented cast performing glamrock greats, disco hits, power ballads and party anthems from sweet, t rex, Queen, elton John, 10CC, David essex, suzi Quatro, David Cassidy, eLO, Osmonds, Bay City rollers and more. Backed by a band whose members have performed with Mike Oldfield, asia and Ultravox, solid Gold 70s boasts a superb musical pedigree, says show producer Michael taylor. “take a step back to a time when 7.30pm on a thursday night could mean only one thing – tVs tuned into BBC1 and families gathered together to watch top of the Pops” says Michael. each week
Free Easter Egg Trail John Bunyan Museum Saturday 1st to Saturday 22nd April.
Bring your children to the Museum for some free and easy easter fun. hunt the coloured cardboard eggs among the displays, rearrange the letters on them to find the mystery word or phrase, and win a chocolate egg and sticker. Quotes from children who have done the easter egg trail in the past include: ‘i liked going into the pulpit to see if an egg was there’ and ‘it was fun and the museum wasn’t too big’.
the bands and singers appearing on this most iconic show of the 70s played out a not-to-be missed battle to be the week’s most outrageously dressed guest, presenting the most outlandishly choreographed performance and presenting themselves as the most swooninducing heartthrob. Michael, whose other hit touring shows include the Magic of Motown and thank You for the Music, says that solid Gold 70s is the most fun
the Museum’s free easter egg hunt runs from saturday 1st to saturday 22nd april. the Museum is open from 11am to 4pm, tuesday to saturday (closed on Good Friday). there are lots of other quizzes for children to do too. Just ask the friendly steward on duty. the John Bunyan Museum is open tuesday to saturday from 11am – 4pm until the end of October (closed on Good Friday). admission is free. For more details contact the Curator, Nicola sherhod, on 01234 270303 or e-mail curator@bunyanmeeting.co.uk. www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk/museum
production on his company’s 20show roster. “if, like me, you have fond memories of Pans People and eurovision, Luke skywalker and saturday Night Fever, Danny and sandy… Dastardly and Muttley, this is the show for you.” audiences are invited to dress the part – platforms, flares, cat suits, tank tops and boob tubes. air guitars are welcome and there is plenty of room for Choppers and space hoppers in the car park. Now is your
harLiNGtON PerFOrMs, aMateUr DraMatiCs sOCietY
Clobber Cancer Cabaret Harlington Village Hall Saturday March 25th 2.00pm and 7.30p.m.
there will be a variety of singing from soloists, duets and choirs. Dunstable Ladies Choir will be coming to sing in the matinee. there will be dancing. there will be instrumentalists. there is a comedy poet! there are comic and dramatic sketches.
Complete the following TV advert slogans: 1) _____ click every trip 2) Cookability, that’s the beauty of ___ 3) _____, for men who don’t have to try too hard 4) Fry’s turkish Delight ____ of eastern promise 5) ______, it’s frothy man 6) Make someone happy with a _____ ____ send your answers by email to pat@rosettapublishing.com Closing date: Friday 24 March 2017. tickets can be purchased at £22.50 with discount for concessions from the Box Office on 01582 60 20 80 or visit www.grovetheatre.co.uk
there will be a couple of monologues. Cast members range from 6-13 year olds doing extracts from ‘Oliver!’, our award winning teenage Drama group stagefright, aged 14-18, performing sketches and our ‘older’ members singing, acting etc. two ex members are coming from Wales to perform a couple of songs. the show is suitable for all ages to see. the cost is £9 for adults and £7 concessions. apart from paying for the hire of the village hall, all money will go to the chemo unit of the L&D. Box office 01525 758874.
14 — MID BEDS BULLETIN MARCH 2017
Mid Beds Art Society
We started well in 2017 with an inspiring Watercolour portrait demonstration by Glynis BarnesMellish and another excellent workshop with Jonathan Newey. the latter focused on creating a snowy landscape using acrylics and a limited palette of colours. after our aGM on Wednesday 15 March, the workshop programme continues:
Launch of children’s Writing Competition
announcing the launch of John Bunyan Museum’s annual competition for school-age children and young people, ‘sincerely, elizabeth Bunyan.’ We are asking you to imagine you are elizabeth Bunyan: your husband John has just been imprisoned for his beliefs. You have been left to look after the children, and must be strong and fight for his freedom. as elizabeth, write a 500 word letter to the powerful Judge hale, to plead and argue for his pardon and release. Curator Nicola sherhod says: “elizabeth Bunyan is a forgotten heroine: she was brave and courageous. she tried over and again
saturday 18 March 10am-4pm, ‘Landscape for all seasons’: a watercolour workshop with Paul Fullstone saturday 8 april, 10am-4pm, ‘animals in pastel’: a workshop with Cate Weatherall Wednesday 19 april, 7.15-9.30 pm, another acrylics demo with hashim akib – always very popular. expect to be amazed! For more info about workshops, call 01525 712735 or email vivianne.callow@hotmail.co.uk www.midbedsart.co.uk
to be heard by the Judges, and threw a letter into the coach of one of them as he passed, as well as visiting the swan hotel to plead in front of an intimidating group of Judges, Justices and gentry.” there are four age groups: school years 1-3, 4-6, 7-9, and 1013, with a first, second, and third prize in each of the categories. Closing date for the competition is 5th June 2017, the winners will be announced prior to a presentation evening on tuesday 4th July 2017. the John Bunyan Museum is open tuesday to saturday from 11am – 4pm (closed on Good Friday). admission is free. For more details contact the Curator, Nicola sherhod, on 01234 270303 or e-mail curator@bunyanmeeting.co.uk www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk/museum
TEL: 07724 905406
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Danesborough Chorus spring concert – Rare Jewels
Beat the winter blues by looking forward to some rare jewels in the Danesborough Chorus spring concert on Saturday 25 March in Woburn Parish Church at 7.30 pm. the choir will perform Duruflé’s requiem and hummel’s Mass in B flat. the programme will also include Gustav holst’s charming st Paul’s suite. the soloists will be Lilly Papaioannou (mezzo-soprano) and Chris Williams (baritone), and the choir will be accompanied by the Milton Keynes City Orchestra. Musical Director, ian smith, says: “this is a rare opportunity to hear the hummel Mass, a lesserknown gem in the choral repertoire, and the more frequently heard Duruflé requiem, both performed in the wonderful acoustic of Woburn Parish Church. Composed in contrasting styles, both works provide expressive insight into the matching of words and music, brought to life through the choir’s enthusiasm and expertise.”
Wam Bam Cabaret Grove Theatre Friday 31 March 8pm
a decadent cocktail of burlesque, circus, comedy, magic and music explodes on to stage. after 10 years of performances at London’s most iconic venues, 2017 sees the start of their sensational new UK theatre tour – Wam Bam Cabaret. Director of the Wam Bam Club and host, Lady alex, explains: “We’ve often been asked by our audiences if we could consider a tour. Following our recent 10th anniversary performance at the opulent royal albert hall, we’re looking forward to bringing our exciting new show to a limited number of theatres outside of London for one night only.
Born in 1902, Maurice Duruflé became chorister at the rouen Cathedral Choir school, where he studied piano and organ. he was always highly self-critical and spent much time reworking his compositions, so his output totalled just 14 published works. his requiem is undoubtedly the best known and was first performed in 1947. Based largely on Gregorian plainchant themes, Duruflé’s requiem embodies the same sense of tranquillity and peace found in the Fauré requiem. By contrast, austro-hungarian Johann Nepomuk hummel was an infant prodigy who became a prolific composer, as famous as his friend and rival Beethoven and his mentor Mozart. he made his first concert appearance at the age of nine at one of Mozart’s concerts. sadly, his music fell out of fashion until his wonderful trumpet Concerto was rediscovered in 1958. the Mass in B flat demonstrates his exhilarating choral writing, superb orchestration, and gift for memorable melodies. tickets for this concert are £20, £15 (reserved) and £10 (concession tickets of £5 are available for under18s). Please telephone 01908 583460 for tickets or visit our www.danesborough.org.uk “the tour provides a unique opportunity for regional audiences to enjoy an ultimate evening of lavish entertainment, Wam Bam style. “Lady alex continues, “a modern burlesque night should be a challenge to the status quo as well as fun and unpredictable – there’s nothing typical in a night with the Wam Bam Club.” a spectacular evening of glitz and glamour is guaranteed as the Wam Bam Belles and Buff Boys take the audience on a rollercoaster ride through cabaret, with a chocolate box selection of the finest international acts.
GD1 Auditions Grove Theatre, Dunstable Mon 20 & Tues 21 March
Calling all dancers! the spectacular dance showcase of GD1 is back by popular demand, and auditions are fast approaching at the Grove theatre, Dunstable. the theatre is looking for talented artists to perform in an evening that celebrates all things dance, from solo numbers to whole group pieces in a whole range of dance styles. so prepare your most outstanding routines and apply to audition! auditions will be held on Monday 20 March and tuesday 21 March, with audition slots being allocated upon application by Friday 3 March. For your chance to be in this year’s show, contact Karen Windley by emailing Groveeducation2@1Life.co.uk
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MID BEDS BULLETIN MARCH 2017 — 15 BeDFOrD LOCaL GrOUP OF the WiLDLiFe trUst Wednesday 8th March Meeting 7.30pm
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BEDFORD HOSPITALS CHARITY PRIMROSE CARS APPEAL
BEDFORD ORGAN & KEYBOARD CLUB THE ADDISON CENTRE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
SATURDAY MARCH 18th at 7.30pm Concert of songs and scenes from Gilbert and Sullivan Comic Operas by
The Wandering Minstrels
A CONCERT BY
ABDREW NIX WEDNESDAY 22 MARCH 7.30 – 10.00pm –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Members £5 PAY AT Non-Members £6 DOOR –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Contact: 01234 344423 www/Organfax/clubs/Bedford
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at the Howard Hall, Bedford Modern School, Manton Lane, Bedford Two hours of Savoy favourites, combining the biting wit of W.S. Gilbert and the enchanting music of Sir Arthur Sullivan Tickets £12.50 each including interval drink available at www.bedfordhospitalcharity.org.uk or call (01234) 781200
Forthcoming illustrated talks 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 1917-1939 Speaker: Marian McDowell
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AMPTHILL & DISTRICT ARCHAEOLOGICAL & LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Monday 3rd April
AGM
Followed by
Talks from Society Members
with updates of work carried out during the year VISITORS ARE VERY WELCOME
Lecture Theatre, Flitwick Library, Coniston Road, MK45 1QJ 7.30 for 7.45pm £2.00 for members & £3.00 for visitors is payable on the door For further details contact: clive.makin@ntlworld.com Tel: 01582 655785 www.adalhs.org.uk
FLOWER ARRANGING EVENING with Neil Gurney
Tuesday 28th March at 7.30pm
NESTING
an illustrated talk by Peter Holden MBE. Peter, a well known naturalist, will reveal the strategies and structures birds use to protect their eggs and young. 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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BEDFORD SINFONIA CONCERT
St. Peter’s Church, Bedford - Saturday 25 March 2017, at 7.30pm Conductor: Michael rose soloist: James Jarvis (Cello) the orchestra presents a concert of two halves - the first featuring four short works for strings, and the second a great work for wind. Mendelssohn - string symphony no. 4 sibelius - romance r strauss - romance for Cello and Orchestra Dvorak - Nocturne Mozart - Gran Partita for Wind K361 tickets: adults £12, Concessions £10, Children/students £5. Please call 01234 718044 or go to www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk For further details visit www.bedfordsymphony.com BeDFOrD rsPB LOCaL GrOUP Meet at ara club Manton Lane Bedford MK41 7PF. Thursday 16Th March 7.30pm Steve Lovell presents
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BRITISH BIRDS OF PREY
the past, present and future of these magnificent birds. entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 annual group membership £5
Join us for an evening of Flower arranging with demonstrations from the very talented Neil Gurney.
One woman show by an established actress who researches and writes all her own material
Contact Cheryl for more details on 01525 715092.
written and performed by alison Neil Friday 17th March at Parkside Hall, Ampthill Bar opens 7.30 pm. performance 8.00pm tickets £7 from Country Properties 01525 403033 Or 01525 751629
The Rufus Centre, Flitwick
tickets are £10 each and all proceeds go to the inner Wheel of Flitwick Vale charities.
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‘MRS BEETON, MY SISTER’
7:30pm Wednesday 8th March Illustrated talk:
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A BEDFORDSHIRE BOBBY GOES TO WAR
MUSIC ON THURSDAYS
Clive Emsley (Emeritus Professor of History, Open University)
Putnoe Heights Church & Community Centre, Bedford MK41 8EB Non-members welcome - £2-00 entry enquiries (01234) 365095 www.baalhs.org.uk
BeDFOrD MUsiC CLUB
Kitty Whately, mezzo soprano, William Vann, piano songs by Purcell, Mahler,schubert, Barber, horovitz, Dove, sondheim 7.45pm Thursday 30 March Bedford Girls’ School tickets £18, students (18-25) £5, Under 18 £2 on the door or from 01234 261811 www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk
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