Mid Beds Bulletin March 2022

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Nuisance pigeons on the menu at council meeting 2021

ESTATE AGENT IN BEDFORD

MID BEDS EDITION

by Euan Duncan – Local Democracy Reporter

PIGEONS are set to be culled in Biggleswade, as the feathered flocks are causing a nuisance in the town centre.

A plot has been hatched by the town council to remove the birds sensitively using bait containers.

The pigeons will then be humanely shot, a meeting of the council’s town centre management committee heard.

The council’s head of governance and strategic partnerships Karim Hosseini said: “We went to the Market Square with the pest control expert to progress the option of a pilot scheme for live capture, with bait boxes to be deployed over a five-week period.

“Unfortunately, the pest controller informed us it wouldn’t be possible to place their live capture

boxes on the pitched roofs, as it requires a flat surface.

“The area in question with the pigeon issue is all completely pitched. So we visited at least six different premises in the vicinity and requested access, only to be turned down at five of those locations.

“However, one said they’re doing some corrective work to their flat roof which will take another couple of weeks. And they will grant us access in March to deploy the live capture bait boxes.”

Deputy mayor Grant Fage asked: “We wouldn’t have to use the flat roof of a shop, would we?

“As we have a flat roof ourselves on the storage unit near the town centre. Could that be used? It’s our asset.”

Town councillor Mark Knight, who chairs the committee, replied: “So I think you’re referring to the container at Century House.”

Councillor Fage inquired: “Would that be an option?

The reason I say that is because I presume we’re getting near the season where eggs get laid and more pigeons arrive.”

Sandy Skatepark project design and funding update

MID BEDS BULLEINT

ON February 9, Sandy Town Council held its third design consultation session for the new skatepark to be built at Sunderland Road Recreation Ground.

At this session, a designer from Maverick Skateparks, the Council’s appointed contractor, shared concept images for a new design with skaters and scooter riders. Attendees responded very positively to the new design, and requested one minor change to a grind rail, which has been implemented by the Maverick team.

Following a good amount of engagement from the roller sport community during the design process, the Council has shared the final design for Sandy’s new skatepark. The design, developed by listening to feedback from residents through online and in-person consultations, combines 18 features to create an interesting and varied facility, with opportunities and challenges for people of all abilities.

In further news, last month, local housing provider Grand Union Housing Group awarded a £4,500 grant to the Sandy Skatepark Project.

This builds on works Grand Union has recently undertaken alongside Central Bedfordshire Council to improve other public spaces in Sandy, through the creation of new parking spaces and improving planting in residential areas.

Karen Nicholson, Community Investment Manager at Grand Union said: “As a member of the Community Investment team, the varied nature of our day jobs is a real perk of what we do. It’s been a privilege to support Central Bedfordshire Council on this project.”

The current total of funds raised, through a variety of grants, local business donations and developer contributions, stands at approximately £115,000.

Fundraising is ongoing and the Project anticipates an additional award of £32,000 shortly.

If you or your business are interested in sponsoring this important community asset, please contact Sandy Town Council at admin@sandytowncouncil.gov.uk or on 01767 681491. www.facebook.com/SandySkateparkProject.

MARCH 2022

Councillor Knight said: “We looked at our shipping container and indeed tried to gain access to the roof to consider the problem for the pitched roofs areas.

“The pest controller told us he was unable to use that roof on the shipping container.”

Mayor Madeline Russell wondered what happens to the pigeons when collected alive.

“I know already in the fields around the town there are flocks of a couple of dozen pigeons at a time, in various locations,” she said.

“Where are we putting these pigeons when we collect them?”

Councillor Knight explained: “My understanding is the proposal is to capture them in a humane way and then shoot them.

“I did take a few photos of the pigeons the other day just after they’d landed on one of the roofs and taken off.

“There are too many to count unless you get them in

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a picture. I counted more than 50 pigeons, and I think there are at least two flocks.

“So there’s been considerable growth in the size of the flocks during the year we’ve been reviewing this.

“There’s some urgency, and it’s certainly true pigeons breed all year. We’re approaching peak breeding season.

“It does sound like there’s a plan to hopefully start the activities in March.”

Town councillor Michael North referred to a suggestion from a member of the public for “a pigeon roast”, with a barbecue set up in Market Square because “they’re edible, aren’t they?”

Councillor Knight quipped: “Would anyone like to second that proposal? You can eat wood pigeon.

“But my understanding is these are a different type of pigeon and they’re less appetising.”

“Oh, right,” replied councillor North. “So that’s a non-starter then.”

Councillor Knight added: “Hopefully by the next meeting we’ll have started proceedings.”

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TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

£13m pot to mend holes!

SERVICE efficiencies should ensure a near £13m budget spend on highways in Central Bedfordshire mends holes in the road, without leaving too big a hole in your pocket, a meeting heard.

The money, which also helps fix street lights, clear gulleys and pay for road signs, is part of Central Bedfordshire Council’s capital programme for 2022/23.

The local authority is trialling new equipment as part of its savings plans, which reduces the impact on the service it provides residents, an executive meeting was told.

Presenting the budget for the next financial year, Conservative Arlesey Cllr and executive member for corporate resources David Shelvey said: “We’ve included almost £13m in our capital expenditure for highways.

“Our investment in this area is substantially more than many of our neighbouring authorities.

“It was also suggested there should be extra spending on automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras. This is our intention and is already built into this budget.”

Conservative Dunstable Central Cllr Carole Hegley asked for clarity over whether there would be ANPR cameras in vehicles, as well as static ones, because of “an expectation in the town” for both.

Conservative Arlesey Cllr Ian Dalgarno said: “ANPR cameras have a number of uses.

“They can be used for goods vehicle weight limits,” he explained. “We also have ANPR vehicles which we’ve got on order.

So we’ll be looking to roll out schemes on both of those across the coming years.

“I appreciate councillors always want extra money spent on roads and pavements. In the national surveys, our highways in the east of England are in the top quartile.

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BEDFORD BOROUGH EDITION

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Charity benefits from big donations BEDFORD Hospital Charity & Friends launched a £1 million fundraising appeal just over a year ago to enhance the A&E provision at Bedford Hospital by installing a new dedicated Paediatric A&E department.

A trip to A&E can be especially frightening for children, and this new facility will offer dedicated resources for younger patients, in a much more child friendly environment.

The Charity recently received a donation of £20,000 from the Bedfordshire Freemasons and the central Freemasons Charity, the MCF, which has provided a great boost to the project’s fundraising.

Work commenced last year for the paediatric A&E department and it is already in use with various special additions being installed as time allows in the very busy department.

Deborah Inskip OBE DL, Chairman of Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends welcomed this generous donation: “We are delighted to accept this most generous donation to help us fund the improvements to the A&E department at Bedford Hospital.

“The new Paediatric A&E and the CT scanner will make a huge

difference to how care can be provided in our emergency department. Such wonderful support for these important developments is greatly appreciated”.

Tony Henderson, the head of Bedfordshire Freemasons added: “There are few of us that haven’t

had to take our children or grandchildren to A&E at some point, and we all aware of how scary that can be.

“We are very pleased to have been able to contribute to making this wonderful new facility a reality.”

A NEW partnership between The Harpur Trust and the Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends (BHC&F) has been announced.

The partnership will be supporting the hospital charity’s latest fund raising appeal – ‘£1m for Bedford A&E’.

Recognising that there would not be much opportunity to hold fundraising events for the appeal, the Charity approached The Harpur Trust early on in the appeal to ask for their support.

Not only did the Trust wish to support the Charity by funding a back-lit picture for the ceiling of the new paediatric A&E unit but also to set up a joint working group to give ‘match funding’ up to an amount of £30,000.

This matched funding arrangement has been running since October 2021 and has included all community events since then.

Covid has meant that the official announcement of the support was held off until today (February 10, 2022).

At the unveiling ceremony of the new ceiling, Lucy Bardner of The Harpur Trust commented: “The pandemic has underlined the Harpur Trust’s belief that the people of Bedford all have a part to play in

improving life for all our residents, and a desire to do so.

“We hope this match funding scheme encourages people to realise that when we all get together, we can make a massive difference, starting with the amazing hospital we all rely on. We’ll even match contributions made by our staff through our GAYE scheme!”

Ken Williams of The Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends went on to say: “This ground breaking partnership means that for each £1 raised by the Charity the Harpur Trust will contribute the same

amount towards the ‘£1m for Bedford A&E’ appeal. It is very exciting news that our two long established organisations have come together to help provide an outstanding A&E department for the people of Bedford and surrounding communities.

David Carter, CEO of the Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are so very grateful to these two excellent local charities who have joined forces to support Bedford Hospital and the community we serve. Our sincere thanks to you both.”

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Potton’s schools to be merged A REVIEW is to be by Euan Duncan – Local Democracy Reporter held of a planned shake-up of school pro- primary and secondary model of which hasn’t followed a pattern vision in the Biggles- schooling to raise educational stan- with the consultations we’ve done dards is being rolled out in phases before in other clusters. wade area to ensure the by the local authority.

“There was a relatively low As part of the area’s proposals, response rate with 353 received. local education bluetowards a new secondary We need to consider these and print remains ‘viable £14m school for Biggleswade has been review our proposals for and fit for purpose’. secured from the housing infras- Biggleswade further against the This analysis will consider the outcome of work by external consultant Edge, around forecast growth for Central Bedfordshire, a meeting heard.

One of the aims is to establish the impact on Central Bedfordshire Council’s Schools for the Future programme, according to a report to its executive.

It will also evaluate the feedback from a consultation for the Biggleswade cluster and feasibility study conclusions, said the report.

The move towards a two-tier

tructure fund (HIF).

Deputy council leader and Conservative Cranfield and Marston Moretaine Cllr Sue Clark told the executive: “The consultation ran for 14 weeks from late June.

“Overall there was support for a long-term plan and a move to a two-tier education system,” she said.

“But the reaction for individual schools was particularly varied,

LONG TERM PLAN

projected growth and the replies received.

“One part where we do need to progress immediately is to merge Potton Lower and Potton Middle to become a primary school by September 2023.

“The reason for this is we’re experiencing falling pupil numbers in years seven and eight at Potton Middle School, which is affecting its viability because nearby clusters have changed their age ranges already.

“It’s important we move for-

ward and combine those two schools,” added councillor Clark, who’s also the executive member for families, education and children.

Conservative Heath and Reach councillor Mark Versallion said: “There was a strong collaboration across this cluster for the changes, the senior officers revealed. That should be highlighted to parents.

“It’s not always the case with academies and maintained schools.

There’s quite often fragmentation, as we experienced a decade ago.”

The executive agreed to authorise the move to statutory notice for the closure of Potton Middle, and a change of age range for Potton Lower to become a primary school for September 2023.

Consultation feedback showed strong support for the long-term plan with 96 per cent support, and

CLOSURE

for the schools to work together to coordinate change at 87 per cent, added the report to councillors.

“But individual school proposals need to be reviewed in greater details against all available information, including forecast growth, consultation responses, feasibilities and viability of proposals against the budget.

“It’s planned to progress with some discrete elements of the cluster, based on feedback, and bring back a further paper for consideration of the remainder of the Biggleswade area.

“Caldecote CofE Academy, St Andrew’s CofE Lower School West, St Andrew’s CofE Lower School East and Northill CofE Academy all received 80 per cent plus support.”

The largest number of responses were over Dunton CofE Lower and Wrestlingworth CofE Lower with 91 per cent support for them to convert to separate primary schools, rather than amalgamate on the Dunton site (four per cent) or relocate to land east of Biggleswade (five per cent).

Biggleswade cluster was viewed originally as an area of high projected growth, with a need to consider both the current educational landscape and future needs, as part of CBC’s plans.

CBC’s plan for 3,600 homes

A DEVELOPMENT brief for part of a site earmarked for 3,600 homes and nearly 20 acres of employment land just outside Luton is being recommended to be endorsed by councillors.

The land between Luton Road and the M1 motorway at Chalton is an allocated site in Central Bedfordshire Council’s Local Plan, which was adopted last year.

Located in Toddington ward, the site is separate from the majority of the north of Luton allocation within the local plan.

Applicant ig9 has submitted a development brief for the commercial section of the site, according to a report to CBC’s development management committee.

“It’s surrounded by development on all sides, and separated by Luton Road,” explained the report.

“The submitted document is for the employment uses only, located to the western side of this mixed use allocation. This overall site is intended for 3,600 homes and 17.3 acres of employment land.

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Parish councillors labelled ‘doughnuts’

A PANEL of Cllrs were surprised at colleagues’ lack of knowledge of the council’s planning system, and some parish council representatives were referred to as “doughnuts”.

As part of the review of the Planning Service at the council, a six-week consultation was carried out amongst all the elected members and parish councils in the borough.

At the Wednesday, February 9 meeting of the Environment Task & Finish Group it was asked to note the anonymised responses and agree that they will be used to inform the Planning Review.

Although as well as noting them, some feedback on the answers was also given.

The comment was made as the group considered the parish council responses to the question ‘How do you usually contact the Bedford Borough Council Planning Department if you need further information?’

Cllr Stephen Moon (Conservative, Great Barford Ward), who was chairing the meeting, said: “This is very similar to the profile of the elected members’ responses, one or two doughnuts and the rest have got it sorted.”

“You’re not asking for them to be identified are you?” asked Cllr Kay Burley (Labour, Kempston Central & East Ward.

“How are you spelling doughnuts, Jeremy, just for the minutes,” Jon Shortland, chief officer for planning and highways, asked.

The first points the group

by John Guinn – Local Democracy Reporter

looked at were Cllr views on contacting the planning department and the appropriate person.

Mr Shortland said officers do not disclose their telephone numbers as they would be “snowed under” with calls while trying to work on something else.

“The preferred method is for the contact to speak to the help desk who will send an email to that case officer saying’ please ring this person back at your convenience’,” he said.

Cllr Moon said: “I’m talking about for elected members, I’m thinking less to do with telephone calls because the Help Desk isn’t always prompt, to put it mildly, to respond.

Mr Shortland said emails to planning enquiries will get passed on to the right person.

Cllr Moon said: “Well there’s the question of identifying the person first and I’m surprised they find it difficult to find the [officer] because, yes, applications have the officer in the information box.”

“They do yes, I’m not sure why they’re finding that difficult,” Mr Shortland replied.

Cllr Moon said: “That, and a number of other areas, indicate to me that there’s some useful training, not just for planning committee members, but for members accessing planning.

“Even it was just in writing as a

SLOW HELP DESK

guide, because failure to identify the officer seems a very strange error for an experienced Cllr to make.

“So we’ve identified that as a particular problem, so there are certainly a significant minority of members who find it difficult a) to identify the planning officer, and b) to work out how to approach him.

“Which is a puzzle to me but never mind.”

While progressing through the responses, Cllr Moon said it appears that some members don’t seem to know about the weekly planning alert.

“I don’t know some of these responses, I don’t fully understand and it might indicate the need for there to be training, not just for members of the planning committee, but for members using the planning service,” he said.

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Queens Park drugs raid A CANNABIS factory that could grow more than half a million pounds’ worth of the drug a year was uncovered in a raid in Bedford.

Officers entered an address in Cutcliffe Grove, Bedford on Wednesday, February 16, as part of a preplanned operation following intelligence that the it was being used to grow and distribute cannabis.

After gaining entry to the building at around 6am, investigators uncovered dozens of cannabis plants in three rooms across the property, with no one inside.

Beds police say early estimates suggest the location could be used to grow some £570,000 worth of cannabis every year.

Investigation Officer Sarah Thacker said: “Although cannabis can sometimes be seen as a substance which causes less harm than other illegal drugs, we know that it can be highly profitable for organised criminal groups who look to exploit young and vulnerable people for their own gain.

“We also know that cannabis is no different to other drugs in that it is intrinsically linked to much of the violence we see in Bedfordshire. We regularly find

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accept it as well,” he said.

“We’re doing a bit of a study at the moment looking at different options of how we can actually still maintain the parks and cutting around trees and other obstacles.

“We only tend to use spot spraying where we absolutely need to, the guys don’t go out there and spray everything and it’s only certain types of chemicals that we use that are the most effective and efficient.”

Mr Pace said that the council gets marked on chemical use when being assessed for Green Flag Award status.

Guidance from the Green Flag Award scheme says that pesticides should not be used, or their use should at least be reduced to a minimum as part of an integrated pest management approach, on any Green Flag Award sites.

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the restriction was originally imposed.

The letter claimed that it is now “critical for the future viability of the site” to extend the hours of operation of the auction facility and transport movements.

BCA’s application is to vary this condition to extend the hours and days of operation to 6am to midnight, seven days a week.

The company’s website says that only one of its 28 sites across the UK is currently open on Sundays (Blackbushe, Camberley – 9am to 5pm).

It also lists the Kempston Hardwick site as being open from 9am until 6pm Monday to Friday, and between 9am and 5pm on Saturdays.

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New pavement cleaning regime

A COUNCIL’S new pavement cleaning machine may help to reduce the use of harmful chemicals in the borough’s green spaces.

The Beds and Bugs Project update presented to the Climate Change Committee on Monday, February 7, said that Bedford Borough Council has committed to reducing the amount of chemical usage in Addison Howard Park and Bedford Park.

This led Cllr Sue Oliver (Labour, Kempston North Ward) to ask what is happening with chemical use in other green spaces in the borough.

Paul Pace, chief officer for environment at the council, said that the council is trying to reduce the use of chemicals where it can.

“We’ve decided to take those parks and other parks as trials to see how we get on, to see how the public

that drugs are behind criminal activity such as county lines drug running, modern slavery and human trafficking, and that’s why we will continue to pursue those involved in this criminal world.

“Our operation has dismantled a cannabis factory on a nice, suburban street. These factories for organised criminal activity could pop up anywhere, so please get in touch with us if you have concerns or suspicions that this is taking place near where you live.”

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Car auction wants to go 24/7 A CAR auction centre has submitted an application so it can open until midnight seven days a week.

BCA has submitted the planning application to remove a planning condition to its site at Kempston Hardwick, Bedford.

Full planning permission for the construction of the auction centre was granted in November 2003.

But a planning condition limits the hours of operation of the auction facility to between the hours of 10am and 9pm inclusive on Mondays to Saturdays, and not at all on Sundays or on Christmas Day, Boxing Day or Good Friday or any other Bank Holiday.

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TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

Climate Plan dismissed Building on bricklaying skills as ‘desktop research’ AN assessment of Bedford Borough Council’s climate action plan scored it two out of five for measuring and setting emissions targets.

The Council Climate Plan Scorecards were dismissed by a senior councillor as “desktop research” – but when asked about a report stating that the Bugs and Bees Project had reduced and offset carbon emissions, a council spokesperson said it “didn’t have a figure”.

The Green Business Network said if the council didn’t have the numbers to back up its claims, it isn’t “doing it properly”.

Climate Emergency UK (CE UK) used 28 questions to assess the climate action plans published online by UK councils to give each authority a score so residents can see how well their council compares with others.

Bedford Borough Council received a total score of 57 per cent, just below Central Bedfordshire Council’s score of 63 per cent.

The average score for singletier councils was 50 per cent. Luton Borough Council scored 19 per cent.

Grace McMeekin, from CE UK, said: “It has been an important exercise to understand what makes a good council climate action plan and we hope that it will help councils learn from each other and up their game.

“A good plan will help a local

ACTION PLANS

by John Guinn – Local Democracy Reporter authority deliver effective actions, as well as enabling local residents to know what their council has committed to and so hold the council to account.”

In response to councillor Ben Foley’s (Green, Castle Ward) question about the scorecards at the full council meeting last month (February 2), Cllr Henry Vann (LibDems, De Parys Ward) the portfolio holder for town centres and planning, told the council: “It [the scorecards] was a desktop piece of research based on documents and actually we’re taking real action.”

But Jane Varley, Green Business Network manager, said while the council can claim it is taking “real action”, this will be based on the council’s own desktop research.

“Once the baseline figures are calculated, a plan sets out how the organisation will reach net zero carbon (or at least reduce carbon) and approximate milestones and targets.

“The proof is in the year on year reduction against the original figures and the future targets.”

The council’s Liberal Democrat Group was asked what the difference was between the paperwork exercise to rate the plan, and the paperwork completed to put the plan together.

Its spokesperson did not respond directly to the question, but said that since mayor Dave

Hodgson was elected the council has taken “real action” on tackling the climate emergency.

An example of action taken by the council is the Bugs and Bees project.

An update on this was presented to last month’s (Monday, February 7) Climate Change Committee. The report said the changes to the council’s maintenance operations as part of the project will help the council to offset carbon emissions to help in reducing the effects of climate change.

The council was asked for a figure for this reduction.

A borough council spokesperson said: “While we do not have a figure of the level of carbon reduced/offset by the Bugs and Bees project, the early stages of this project have shown really exciting developments in making Bedford Borough a greener, more wildlife-friendly place.

“For example, by reducing grass cutting in certain areas we are saving emissions by using less fuel for vehicles, and allowing wildflowers to grow, creating better habitats for local insects, and a more sustainable natural environment.”

Ms Varley said: “If the council is making claims, it should have the figures to substantiate them. If it can’t, then it isn’t doing it properly.”

EXCITING

THE Bedford College Group is supporting pioneering professional training for those wanting to be the bricklayers of the future.

Full-time students have been benefitting from industry-recognised Association of Brickwork Contractors (ABC) courses in modern masonry techniques.

The ABC Assessment Centre is the first training provider to offer Construction Industry Training Board (CITB)-approved accreditation in relation to ancillary bricklaying processes. The courses include practical and theoretical experience in brick-slip systems, fire barriers, brick soffits, windpost installation and masonry support angles. Delivered by experts with decades of brickwork experience, trainees will, on competition of their course, have certification providing visible proof of their new-found expertise.

Simon Livett, Centre Manager at the ABC Assessment Centre, said: “The training programme is our response to industry demand for more, betterskilled operatives in the brickwork sector. Over the years, manufacturers have developed many fantastic aids for bricklayers, particularly in the commercial building sector with regards to the creation of brick-slip façade cladding systems and the like.

“But there’s a growing feeling that onsite, the level of workmanship has not necessarily kept pace with the evolution of new products and bricklaying techniques.

Therefore, in conjunction with the ABC membership, we’ve devised a comprehensive suite of training courses delivered by experts in a range of modern brickwork installations, as well as covering a variety of core competencies.”

David Wilkins Director of Construction and Building Service said: “This is a great partnership between the ABC (Association of Brickwork Contractors) and the Group, to deliver a programme of modules to full-time student bricklayers to demonstrate various modern techniques. This is being undertaken in several colleges across the UK and we are delighted to part of that pioneering activity.” https://bricktraining.co.uk/portfolio/video-seriesaddresses-uk-construction-skills-shortage/ The Bedford College Group is involved with multiple employer, training and government advisory groups which combine to identify the skills which are necessary to support the UK construction industry in coming decades. Sixteen to 60-year-olds receive training in the most relevant techniques to ensure they can meet the demands of the modern and fast changing industry.

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AROUND THE CLUBS BIGGLESWADE IVEL TOWNSWOMEN’S GUILD

Chairman Ann Taylor welcomed members to the meeting on Monday, February 14. Birthday greetings were given to Glynis Costin.

Since the last meeting a number of members had attended the thanksgiving and memorial service for Rosie Body. The walking group met at Sandy for a lovely walk through the RSPB lodge followed by lunch at the Guinea at Moggerhanger. It was a pleasure to see so many snowdrops blooming, perhaps a sign that spring is on its way.

Ahead of the annual general meeting next month, an appeal was made for volunteers to be on the committee next year.

The speaker for the afternoon was Wally Thrale who gave a very interesting and informative illustrated talk about beekeeping.

His presentation took us from the very beginning of life in a bee colony to the final product of honey. There are 19 different

species of bumble bees.

A queen will lay her eggs which are smaller than a grain of rice, the hive will contain 20-30 thousand bees, comprising the queen, drones, female workers each with a specific task including some who will guard the hive from intruders.

Following the presentation members were able to buy honey and honey marmalade.

The monthly competition, something beginning with the letter V, was won by Pauline Dover with a vinyl record, 2nd Chris Davies with a toy van and 3rd Sheila Mills with a vase.

The next meeting will be the Annual General Meeting on Monday, March 14. The guild meets on the second Monday of the month 2pm at the Orchard Community Centre, Sullivan Court, Biggleswade new member and visitors are very welcome.

The Sandy Guild is a group of local people offering friendship, support and fundraising within Sandy and the local community.

THE SANDY GUILD

Squirrels are growing in Flitwick OVER 40 Squirrels (boys and girls aged 4 and 5) were invested as members of Flitwick Scout Group last week. The investitures on Thursday afternoon were attended by Flitwick Town Council Mayor Andy Snape.

The investitures on Saturday morning were attended by Vice Lord Lieutenant Chris Sharwood Smith and Flitwick Town Councillor Clare Thompson.

Darren Reeve, Lead Volunteer for Flitwick Scout Group said, “We’ve been blown away by the number of children who’ve wanted to join Squirrels. We started both Dreys in early November and within a matter of days we had nearly 40 children joining” them.

It’s been great that some of the parents of the children have stepped forward to be volunteers with the Group.

Oscar Kitteridge said, “I love coming to Squirrels, we do fun activities, play games, have a story and sing a song. It’s a great way to start my day.” Oscar’s father Matt said, “Squirrels has been really good for Oscar. He has gained in confidence being around children he didn’t previously know. He is so proud of the items he makes and brings home and he is always talking about Squirrels.

The Group are the only one in the County that have Squirrels and they are getting enquiries to join

from across the County and from neighbouring Counties.

Trustee Nigel Taylor said, “When I looked at our wating list in October I saw the opportunity to set up two Dreys, one on a Thursday afternoon and the other on a Saturday morning. We contacted all of the parents of the children on our waiting list and we used social media and word of mouth to get the message out to others.

The children love coming down and the volunteers always ensure there is a packed programme.

Activities we’ve run include making fruit kebabs, toasting marshmallows, trying new activities and growing cress. The smile on their faces when they are awarded a badge is a sight to behold.”

The Group currently have 45 Squirrels, 70 Beaver Scouts (boys and girls aged 6 to 8) 82 Cub Scouts (boys and girls aged 8 to 10), 51 Scouts (boys and girls aged 10 to 14). There are also 27 Explorer Scouts (boys and girls aged 14 to 17) in an associated Explorer Unit. They have also manged to recruit several new volunteers recently to help with the number of children joining and remaining with the Group.

For further information about Flitwick Scouts please visit www.flitwickscoutgroup.org.uk

MARCH 2022 —

We are organising talks and demonstration evenings to be held every other month. During lockdown did you wish there was a skill you could learn, if so these talks could be the opportunity you are looking for.

Our next event is Cupcake decorating by Jennie’s Cakes & Catering. The event is being held at Sandy Village Hall on Thursday 24th March, 7.30 pm Jennie will demonstrate and talk about how to decorate Cupcakes. There will be an opportunity afterwards for you to decorate x 6 Cupcakes to take home with you.

Tickets cost £15.00 each and can be booked by emailing sandyguild2019@gmail.com via our Facebook, page or by calling 07500 907715. All profits will go to our chosen charity, which this year is St John’s Hospice, Moggerhanger.

A productive Zoom meeting of the Association was held in January.

Discussion about Malaunay took up the large part of the meeting. In respect of Skarszewy :no real decisions to take ‘though we might consider inviting a small delegation for Remembrance weekend in November if circumstances permit. Summer schools cancelled before Christmas and it is uncertain whether either secondary school will want to take this up again.

Inter-club activities inevitably on hold.

As for Malaunay all those present at the meeting were unanimous that at this point in time it is pointless to consider any kind of visit for May 2022. Visits can only be restarted when the pandemic has subsided to a degree which permits a return to relative normality and when costs and travel restrictions can be fully assessed.

This being the case we can, at this time, only suggest the following for 2022: • Acknowledge the 40th by trying to reciprocate the Malaunay gesture of a commemorative album of photos and news items etc. All members to be invited to search through their files and look out personal photos covering the past 40 years.

• Over the May Bank Holiday weekend, which was originally earmarked for the 40th visit, invite the jumelage to take part in a zoom meeting with us. To be conducted in English and French and consist

SANDY TWINNING ASSOCIATION

7

largely of greetings and personal exchanges.

• Organise a Sunday walk, perhaps with picnic, as an opportunity to try and recruit new members.

Emphasis on ‘gentle walk’!

• Possibility of a ‘small’ visit being organised in the autumn depending entirely on the progress of the pandemic. By this time we should have a reasonable idea as to what might be possible in 2023.

Social events were also agreed for this year: • Sunday May 8th walk and picnic. Advertised to encourage new members.

• Sunday September 25th Late summer barbecue.

• Friday November 25th. Roundabout Club? Quiz night.

For information about any of the Association’s activities please contact Martin Pettitt on 680082 (martin.pettitt@virginmedia.com) or Max Hill on 681469 (amaxhill@outlook.com) Friends of Sandy Christmas Lights (FOSCL) has yet to meet in 2022 but it is expected that the next Lights switch-on will take place on Sunday November 27th. Feedback on the last event has been very positive. Everyone seems agreed that Sandy’s town centre and tree looked very much more festive than those of other local towns.

Furthermore one brightly illuminated road on the Fallowfield estate was even featured on Look East.

Well done to all the residents there!

SANDY TOWN COUNCIL Mayor ’s Commmunity Awards Nominations for the Mayor of Sandy’s Community Awards are now open. The done awards recognise the people who have r resiothe for or unity comm the the most for dents in Sandy and Beeston. ens The three categories of awards are Citiz Award, Young Persons Award and Community Group Award. think If there is a person or group who you us deserves to be recognised, please tell about them using the forms that are avail 10 s at able from Sandy Town Council’s office on Cambridge Road, Sandy, SG19 1JE and

ov.uk. the website: www.sandytowncouncil.g good a be ly simp A nominated person could t neighbour who helps others in their stree or , tasks r othe or g enin gard , ping with shop the someone who has worked hard over or to years for the benefit of the community g. serve a group or club to which they belon ty Previous recipients have included a chari r of Chai fundraiser, Cub Pack leaders and the a pensioners’ group. , As we start to emerge from the pandemic now is the time to recognise those who went stepped forward and who you believe

Council sets Precept fo r coming year Sandy Town Council set the budget and its

precept for the year ending control. The areas that acc ount for a growth Ma in the budget include incr Full Council meeting on Mo rch 31, 2023 at a eased costs for nday, January 24, 2022. utilities, business rates, lega l costs, staffing, leases, and agreements to The agreed 2022/23 budget which the Council is and precept request obligated. A larg will result in an increase of e part of the increase was £5.6 due to a rise of up to 130% in pence a week for the averag 2 a year, or 10.8 the cost of electricity, e (Band D) which is impacting service taxpayer in Sandy. Band D providers and households will pay households across the cou £154.86 in 2022-23 for all ntry. The Council the services Sandy was able to negotiate a best pos Town Council provides. sible cost with a new provider following the As with other financial yea collapse of its rs all aspects of the pre vio us elec tricity supplier.

Council’s budget were scru tinised and The Council was able to ma evaluated to reduce costs ke and make efficiency administration costs, specific reductions in savings where possible wh ally its ile ensuring that its printing/stationery, copier core functions are adequa and IT budget costs, tely resourced. The along with savings in serv Council started its budget ice provision and rev September and the Policy, iew process in property maintenance.

Finance and Resources Committee form The Town Council recogni ally ses the importance of budget at four public meetin reviewed the providing a best value serv ice and keeping a recommendation to the gs prior to making costs down. As such, serv Town Council. ice providers and In total, the Council made con tracts are continually review app ed to ensure £8,869 in budget reduction roximately best value and the Council s, and an overall actively applies for increased income of £2,475 add itio nal support funding wh set against required budget increases of approx to help alleviate the burden erever possible imately £39,500. on Over the last 12 months the the Precept.

It has been necessary for Council the successfully obtained app an increase in this year's bud Council to agree roximately £130,000 get , prim aril y due in external and grant fundin to increased contract and g to support utility costs outside of projects and activities.

Sandy Easter Market MID BEDS BULLETIN

4pm to explore a fun Come to Sandy Market Square on Sunday 10th April between 10am & businesses. A local 20 from stalls perusing while music Easter Market. Visitors will enjoy live home décor, plants, wonderful variety of goods will be on offer, including handmade crafts, art, Facebook page or bath products, food and drinks, clothing, jewellery and more. See the Council’s ements. website for stall announc

the extra mile to serve our community . during the struggles of the last two years the by ved recei be ld Nomination forms shou 2022.

Town Council no later than 1st April also Additional statements or evidence may the for inees Nom . wish you if be submitted Young Persons’ Award should not have ng passed their 18th birthday by the closi date.

Council Nominations will be considered by a Committee and the winners will be d presented with their awards at an awar ceremony later this year.

Platinum Jubilee Celebrations

rking with Sandy Town Council is wo il to secure use unc Co re shi ford Bed tral Cen Place for a big of the grounds of Sandye n on atio ebr cel Platinum Jubilee 2.

Thursday 2nd June 202 for the event which Plans are well underway d and drink, and foo sic, mu live e lud inc will con lighting bea al ion nat the our part in c occasion. tori his this which will mark n on the soo ails det re Look out for mo ebook page.

Council’s website and Fac

Council meetings All meetings commence at 7.30pm except Development Scrutiny Committee (Planning), which starts at 6.45pm in the Council Chamber, 10 Cambridge Road, Sandy, SG19 1JE (unless otherwise stated on the Agenda).

Monday 7th March 2022 Development Scrutiny Town Council Monday 14th March 2022 Community Services & Environment Monday 28th March 2022 Development Scrutiny Policy, Finance & Resources Monday 4th April 2022 Human Resources See our website for details.

ALL MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC AND PRESS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND.

10 Cambridge Road, Sandy SG19 1JE Tel: 01767 681491 Fax: 01767 692527 admin@sandytowncouncil.gov.uk www.sandytowncouncil.gov.uk

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— MARCH 2022

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Tractor run raises thousands

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It has been announced that £6,476.20 has been raised for Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice from the tractor run. The club has also held additional events over previous months raising other donations for the Moggerhanger hospice, which cares for families across Bedfordshire.

The Young Farmers are currently supporting the hospice as their chosen charity, and plan to donate the total raised at the end of their fundraising activities later this year.

Rosie Billington, a member of the Bedford and District Young Farmers Club, said: “It was a brilliant day and we want to say a big thank you to everyone involved for their generous support. Thank you to everyone who took part in our tractor run, including from our club and from Bedfordshire Young Farmers.

THE days are getting longer, the temperature is warming up, daffodils are beginning to herald what for many, is the start of the gardening year, although regular readers will know that I debunk such a suggestion, so grab your new coat and shiney new tools and put them through their paces! And see if they are as good as their manufacturers tell you they are!

Around a month ago, in a garden surrounded by farmer’s fields, I became very aware of the new shoots of daffodils liberally scattering the areas where they had been planted and with a perfect circular hole around an inch (2.5cm) close by. The culprit? I was convinced it was a squirrel. Other signs around the garden confirmed this. Then, early one morning, while still dark, I suddenly became aware of something moving on top of a planter filled with wallflowers, daffs. and tulips.

It was a mouse! In many ways, I marvelled as I watched him/her diving head first into the compost, nibbling at the new young growth emerging from the bulb and then discarding the tougher, older material on top.

Although truly fascinating to witness it was also, in equal measure, extremely annoying; given the expense and time taken to plant hundreds of bulbs to see them destroyed like this just at the time they were starting to show was heart breaking to put it mildly but as I always say, all animals have to eat; they all have their role to play in the great chain of being will call the natural world and I will just have to devise a way of keeping them away next year as for me, killing them is absolutely not an option.

As always, an interesting response to last month’s alternative to Glyphosate ‘recipe’ came from one reader who got in touch to recommend a book that some of you might find of interest.

Unambiguously entitled, Toxic Legacy: How The Weedkiller Glyphosate Is Destroying Our Health And The Environment, it is written by the MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), researcher, Dr. Stephanie Seneff. The central thesis of the work is described by its author ‘[that there is] mounting evidence that the world’s most commonly used weedkiller is the root cause for our epidemic of debilitating chronic diseases’.

If you do get yourself a copy, please let me know what you make of it.

A number of people have asked when the Garden Waste Bin Collection will resume after last year’s unpredictable and somewhat inept ‘service’, (term used in its loosest possible sense). Unfortunately, the only information to date is that it will once again start in ‘spring’ which narrows it down nicely!

If and when Central Bedfordshire Council provide a date, I will try and

publicise it here. At least one of us is also waiting to hear when we are to be reimbursed after, in essence, paying for a service that was not provided. Probably best not to hold my breath waiting for that one!

For those of you who wondered where the ‘just for fun’ quiz question was last month, it’s back!

The term, vulgaris, regularly appears in the botanical names of plants eg. Primula vulgaris; what does it mean? Answer next month.

As usual, many thanks to all of you for contributing to this column, keep them coming, and please contact me with any gardening tasks or queries, email: lawndocgardens@ aol.com or tel: 01767 627 581 or 07796 328 855.

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A PROCESSION of more than 100 tractors has raised £6,476.20 for charity, in loving memory of a member of the Bedfordshire farming community.

Tractors of all shapes and sizes came together for the Bedford and District Young Farmers Club annual tractor run at the end of December.

Travelling in a convoy, the tractors took a route through Wootton and surrounding villages including Turvey, Carlton and Harrold.

The rain didn’t dampen spirits and members of the public lined the streets to cheer them on as they passed by.

This was especially dedicated to the loving memory of Jane Helliwell, who was strongly involved with the club and was also the Bedfordshire Young Farmers’ County Organiser for thirteen years.

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Helping pupils to aspire

Left to right: Paula Page; Head Teacher, Ruth Wilkes and Emma Semi.

Borough councillors urged to freeze their allowances

BEDFORD Borough councillors are to be asked to keep their allowances at the same level for another year.

As elected volunteers and not employed, councillors do not receive a salary. However, they are paid an allowance in recognition of the time, work and costs involved in representing the people of their wards and the borough.

And to help make sure residents can be confident of independence, openness and accountability, the process of making and reviewing allowance schemes is regulated.

At the heart of this is the creation of an independent remuneration panel (IRP) – whose views must be considered before members’ allowances schemes are made or changed.

At last months full council meeting councillors were asked to receive a report by the interim chief officer of the legal & monitoring officer to consider and agree the process for the selection and appointment of an IRP. The councillors were also asked to agree that the Members Allowances’ Scheme should remain the same for 2022/23.

The current basic allowance of £10,425 was set in 2016, although Conservative Cllrs Coombes, Moon and Rigby are listed as remaining on the previous basic allowance of £10,322.04.

There are also allowances paid to councillors who hold a position of special responsibility in relation to the authority, for example chairing a committee.

The latest breakdown of councillor allowances on the council’s website is for 2020/21.

This list showed that the range of the allowances paid to members

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ASPIRATION is an important part of learning at Castle Newnham so the school was delighted to invite Paula Page and Emma Semi of the Aspire Higher team at the University of Bedfordshire to open the new Careers Hub at the school.

The Hub will be used to give pupils one to one advice about their future careers and post 16 choices.

The school works closely with Aspire Higher to give pupils opportunities to work with the University on all sorts of exciting projects such as subject specific visits, and guest speakers from the University.

Year 9 pupils are invited to visit the university for a day to experience life as a student.

Alison Boston, Assistant Principal for Aspiration & Achievement said, “We value the

partnership that we have with Aspire Higher at the University of Bedfordshire as it gives our pupils opportunities to think about life after school and consider subjects that they could study and careers that they could pursue.”

Paula Page, Collaborative Project Manager said, “Aspire Higher has been working in partnership with Castle Newnham School since 2017 on a range of inspirational educational projects.

This has ranged from mentoring for their EAL students, a university taster day, residential summer schools, engineering after school club, sports projects and many more.

“We were so pleased to be part of the opening of the Aspire Higher space at Castle Newnham and look forward to working with students in this dedicated space.”

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Bedford Mayor, Dave Hodgson, does not receive a basic allowance, but data for 2020/21 showed that he did receive a special allowance of £62,551.80.

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TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

gardening

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It’s March in the garden M

our carbon footprint. There is a tree for every garden no matter how large or small. Some can even grow in large pots and now is the ideal time to plant. It can be ornamental, evergreen, topiary or a fruit tree. Come and talk to Terry or Stewart who are very happy to advise you the best variety to grow depending on your soil and position.

With the higher light levels the Lawn should now start growing. When there is a dry period

by Maureen Catlin

ARCH the first month of spring and our gardens are waking from winter.

The spring bulbs are in full bloom and early flowering shrubs and herbaceous are delighting us with their colour and scent.

Crocus, Daffodils, Narcissus and Tulips can be complemented with Snakes Head Fritillary, Dog Tooth Violets, Alliums and Anemone Blanda. Leave the bulbs undisturbed after flowering and they will reward us by increasing in numbers and vigour every year. Snowdrops however benefit if lifted and divided while in

leaf to successfully increase their numbers.

As the weather gets warmer it is time to plant summer and autumn flowering bulbs and tubers like Dahlia, Gladioli and Lilies. These are best planted in pots and kept in a light frost free place to start growing until all risk of frost has gone before planting in the garden. They are great showy garden plants that like sunny sheltered places. Lilies look fantastic in summer borders many are tall and often scented. They also make good patio plants in pots.

March 24, a programme of trios by Haydn and Beethoven, together with a recent work they commissioned from local composer Cherlyl Frances-Hoad.

April 28 with a brilliant young quintet, Connaught Brass, who took first prize in the inaugural Philip Jones International Brass Competition in 2019. Contact: www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk

Bedford Music Club:

Sandy Women’s Institute: Meets on the third

Tuesday of every month (except August) at Sandy Conservative Club, Bedford Road, Sandy. New members are always very welcome. Visitors are charged a small fee of £4. For further information contact: Ann Patterson 01767 680644.

Cowper and Newton Museum: Orchard Side, Market The early flowering herbaceous Pulmonaria and Brunnera associate well with spring flowering bulbs as does the perennial Wallflower Erysium and Euphorbia. We should not forget the mini perennials that we also call Alpines.

Many are traditional cottage garden plants like Aubretia, Sedums and Armeria but a good addition is the perennial Viola Columbine, V. Etaine and V. Molly Sanderson. They flower their hearts out from March until November and are very easy to grow in the garden and in tubs.

It is the ideal time to add or completely replant borders with Shrubs Roses Climbers and Herbaceous plants.

It allows the plants to establish before the drier summer weather when regular watering is vital. New varieties of Shrub roses look great in mixed borders and will flower from June to September. If you are adding new permanent plants think about their value to wildlife as well as the size structure and form. Buddleia and Hebes are great for butterflies while Philadelphus and Lavender are loved by bees.

Evergreens make great bird habitat especially in winter if planted against a wall or fence. Do not collect the leaves shed by deciduous plants in autumn, these will provide cover for many insects newts and frogs.

March is a suitable time to prune many types of shrubs. Cornus the Dogwood that have given us brightly coloured lime green, cream, orange or bright red bare stems during the winter months should be cut back to almost ground level now so that we get another crop of stems with the brightly coloured bark next winter. Use the cut stems to support tall herbaceous plants.

In March shrubs that are grown permanently in pots should have the top 30cms of soil removed and replaced with fresh compost and a slow release general or ericaceous feed and then coloured chippings placed on top to reduce water loss in hot weather.

Planting trees is a brilliant way for reducing

Place, Olney, Bucks. MK46 4AJ 1st - 30th March: Don’t miss 'Bringing Up Baby', a display of historic infant clothes, in our Three Hares Gallery. Contact: 01234 711516

Bedford Local Wildlife Trust: Wednesday March 9,

of a few days without overnight frosts give the grass a trim with the mower blades set high. It will probably still be too cool for grass seed to germinate but it is fine to lay turf. If you are repairing damaged areas dig a shallow area to accommodate the new turf.

Sprinkle the soil with Growmore or Fish Blood and Bone, lay the turf and tread to firm.

Keep watered. Treat any weeds with a lawn weed killer and feed the entire lawn with a good lawn feed to improve the root structure which helps the grass to grow stronger absorbing more water and resisting disease.

Next month we are planting seeds and discovering new varieties.

GROW YOUR OWN FRESH HERBS

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Priory Methodist Church Hall, Newnam Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ. ‘Fenland – that sinking feeling’ – an illustrated talk by Dr Pat Doody. Plenty of parking available, All welcome, no charge but voluntary contributions are appreciated.

Further details contact under Events on www.wildlifebcn.org or 01234 266057

Antiques & Collectables Fair: ERTA Stall Saturday

March 5, 10am – 3:30pm. St. Paul’s Church, St. Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SQ. Admission £1 Please visit the ERTA stall & show your support. Contact:

Sandy Historical Research Group: 7.30pm

Tuesday, March 8, Beeston Methodist Church Hall, The Baulk, Beeston, SG19 1NR. A talk

by Debbie Land of The Shuttleworth Collection entitled “Secret War – The Lysander, RAF Tempsford, and the SOE” (Special Operations Executive). Entry for non-members £3.50. Contact:

Bedford Folk & Acoustic Club: Acoustic and folk music round-the-room, every Thursday evening from 8:30pm at the Bowls Pavilion of Kempston Hammers Club, MK42 7BN. Musicians, singers and poets all welcome, at every level. Contact: us on facebook, or come and meet us at the Bowls Pavilion.

Yoga: Priory Methodist Church, Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ. 2pm Mondays Contact: June for details: juandhannigan@yahoo.co.uk

Kempston Senior Citizens Club:

DANCING, WHIST, BINGO. Meets Wednesday 10am-12noon Friday 10am-4.00pm, CENTENARY HALL, behind Kempston Town Hall, for further information contact: Sheila Cobban, on 01234 347306.

Bedford National Trust Association: Addison Centre,

Kempston, MK42 8PN. 2.15pm Tuesday, March 15. The speaker is James Higgs. "35 Years as a T.V.Quizzer" James has been on many different quiz shows, including: 'Tell the Truth', 'No Win - No Fee, '15 to One', 'The Weakest Link, and 'Eggheads' "James will bring a tear to your eye and a lump to your throat". And he will certainly make us laugh. There will be a small admission fee. Everyone welcome.

No need to book. Plenty of parking space. For further information Contact: Garry Telling on 01480 819 625

Friday March 4, 7.15 for 7.30 start, at Putnoe Heights Church Bedford, MK41 8EB. Stephie Butler is going to show us how to use liquid charcoal in conjunction with watercolour to create exciting works of art. Entry is free for members, £5 for visitors.

Contact Jean Paterson 01234 307210 or www.bedsartsociety.co.uk

Bedford Art Society:

New and Pre-Loved Sale: Saturday March 12, 10am-

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Recently I visited a friend who very sadly has a degenerative disease. It is taking its inevitable toll on her body.

She is increasingly using a wheelchair. Reflecting on this developing disability, her husband said: “I now get lots of people talking to me about how she is.”

In other words, talking over her, not talking to her.

It is that ‘does he take sugar’ experience that was the title of a BBC Radio 4 programme that up until the late 1990’s explored different aspects of disability and focused attention on the priority of engaging with people who are disabled as one would with someone who is so-called ‘able’ bodied.

My friend is quite clear – there is nothing wrong with her mind. It is her body that is letting her down.

But even for the person with learning disability it is no different.

Each individual is to be seen as a person in their own right.

Hearing their ‘voice’, not just about whether they take sugar, but deciding on key life choices.

This month I visited the headquarters of Mencap in London to discover more about their significant contribution to the flourishing of those with learning disabilities.

What I heard was both

inspiring, but also challenging – not least in regard to the need for more generous funding of social care.

Mencap takes very seriously the valuing and supporting of people with a learning disability.

At the heart of this is enabling their voice to be heard, but Mencap recognise they can do better.

If you Google images of their HQ in central London, you will see the strap line ‘The voice of learning disability’ on their frontage.

However, this is being removed. As their Chief Executive says, it is the people who are the voice not Mencap.

Jesus in the Gospels makes a priority of hearing the voices of those who would otherwise be excluded. He gives priority to the leper, the possessed and the disabled.

He goes to the pool at Bethesda where ‘a great number of disabled people used to lie’ (John 5:3).

It is the outworking of that great image of the Body described in the first letter to the Corinthians with its emphasis on the indispensability of what appear to be the weakest parts.

Who do we need to hear?

Where are we in danger of speaking over someone?

How do we give voice and value to all?

Increase in Council Tax below 2%

COUNCIL tax payers in Central Bedfordshire face a 0.95 per cent increase in the local authority’s share of the bill, as well as one per cent for adult social care, subject to final approval.

The figures were confirmed at an executive meeting “at a time of unprecedented uncertainty and risk”, warned a report to the committee.

A Band D increase of £16.37 is proposed, with the extra help to fund adult social care costs meaning the Central Bedfordshire Council band D council tax for 2022/23 will be £1,669.02, said the report.

Town and parish precepts, as well as those for the county’s police force and fire and rescue service also have to be added.

Presenting the revenue budget report, Conservative Arlesey Cllr David Shelvey explained: “One of the extra payments is £2m in our social care grant, which is now £6.8m.

w

“This has enabled us to increase the amount we pay for care fees to providers by 6.5 per cent, which is really good news.

“The result of this is to change both the pressures and the efficiencies shown in the draft budget for 2022/23 by £2m. So the efficiencies have now increased from £10m to £12m.

“The net pressures remain the same at £10m as does the net revenue budget at £240m, which is £14m up from the current (financial) year.

“As we get no grant funding, this is all raised from council tax and non-domestic rates.”

With inflation at five per cent and likely to increase this will put pressure on CBC’s finances, he explained.

“There remain so many uncertainties and therefore risks to our budget with the effects of Covid still unknown.

Most, if not all, of the nearly £17m of

PRESSURE ON FINANCES

Covid grants this year will be used.

“Income from services remains below the forecasts. With cost increases in adult social care and children’s services, because of inflationary pressures and demand, we may find we need to use contingency and some reserves.”

A fairer funding settlement for local authorities is on the way, with changes to business rate retention also likely.

Both of those are expected to be detrimental to Central Bedfordshire, according to Cllr Shelvey, who’s the executive member for corporate resources.

He described the response to last month’s budget consultation as “disappointing with only 1,100 responses”, saying: “We had 1,500 last year and 2,300 the year before, with a population approaching 300,000.

“Unfortunately, we still need a small increase to continue to provide services to our residents without making cuts.”

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TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

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by Tony Hendrix Those of you who remember spending time stomping at the local college student nights back in the 90s, I'm sure will remember one of the biggest Indie anthems of all time ‘Unbelievable’ by EMF, well you now have the chance to dance alongside EMF live at Bedford Esquires on Sunday, April 10, 2022 EMF, the band responsible for the chart topping smash hit ‘Unbelievable’, are back with their first album of all-new material since 1995 called GO GO Sapiens, this is the anticipated album that fans have been patiently waiting for. It begins a fresh new era for EMF. Funded by and created for these dedicated fans of the band, the new album reinvents the classic

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The album features 11 tracks written and recorded during the summer of 2021. The lead single from the album will be the blistering rock track called “Sister Sandinista.” EMF are excited to showcase their new material, and are planning to conduct a small UK tour in April of 2022 bringing the show to Bedford for their very first visit to the venue on Sunday 10th April Tickets for all shows are now on sale at Esquires.

The Team at Bedford Park Concerts have now confirmed their headline acts for Bedford’s most popular family event on Sunday, July 31, 2022 when Bedford parks Proms celebrates its 25th anniversary which is undoubtedly the biggest family yearly event to be held in the county.

Opera Star and BBC Radio presenter Wynne Evans will headline along with Broadway and West End sensation Marisha Wallace.Opera. Wynne Evans made himself a household name as the spoof opera star Gio Compario. in the Go Compare insurance adverts, Singer and actor Marisha Wallace is a Broadway and West End sensation, best known for starring in Something Rotten, Dreamgirls, Waitress and more The soloists will be accompanied by the

London Gala Orchestra conducted by the enigmatic Stephen Bell, with support from The Bedford Choral Society.

Bedford Park Proms has one of the best laser shows in the country and a firework spectacular to finish the evening. It’s the only show that you can bring your own drinks and picnics too and its suitable for all ages.

Tickets are £25 for adults, Children Tickets - £5 and under 5s go free. www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk/ev ents/bedford-park-proms-2022tickets/

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performing a storming set at the Hackney Empire, alongside a stellar line-up from the worlds of comedy and music.

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Saturday March 5 The Rufus Centre, Flitwick Headlining the show is HAL CRUTTENDEN. He is one of the top comedians working in the UK today, as well as being a highly accomplished writer and actor. He has hosted Live at the Apollo!

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HHHHDaily Mirror CHRISTIAN REILLY will open the show in style. He is a Perrier Award-winner and former partner of gruff American mainstay of comedy Rich Hall! Christian’s career has taken him around the world many times. On his way, he received accolades at international festivals and numerous network TV credits.

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Christmas Treecycling scheme raises tree-mendous £8,864 for Sue Ryder hospice

SUE Ryder St John’s Hospice has thanked the local community for going green and supporting its Christmas Treecycling service, which raised thousands of pounds for families needing its compassionate care.

The hospice’s scheme, which took place last month, saw 662 real Christmas trees collected from people’s homes in and around Bedford and Biggleswade after the festivities had ended.

Residents made donations in return for their trees being collected, chipped into mulch and recycled.

In total, £8,864 was raised to help Sue Ryder continue to offer its expert care and bereavement support to local families.

Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice worked in partnership with Just Helping. A whole host of local people and organisations rallied round to support the festive initiative.

The trees were collected from residents’ homes by big-hearted businesses and volun-

teers who donated their time and vehicles.

This included Brightman Brothers Tree Care, Green Thumb Lawn Care, Cople Tree Care, J & R Tree Services and volunteer Stefan Herceg.

The trees were then chipped down into mulch by the teams at Brightman Brothers Tree Care, Cople Tree Care, Shire Trees Ltd and J & R Tree Services.

The mulch will be reused on land locally, for example by being spread over the gardens of Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice to help plants and flowers thrive.

Nick Burr at Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice, said: “Christmas Treecycling is a green and practical solution to the problem of what to do with a real tree once the festivities are over. We want to say a very special thank you to the local community for supporting our scheme. By recycling your nolonger needed trees and making kind donations, you have helped to reduce landfill

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and raised a tree-mendous £8,864 for our hospice. This will help us to continue providing our expert care and filling families’ final days with love.

“We also want to say a big thank you to Just Helping, Brightman Brothers Tree Care, J & R Tree Services, Cople Tree Care, Shire Trees Ltd, Green Thumb Lawn Care, The Blakemore Foundation and our wonderful volunteers for donating their time and for their incredible efforts and hard work – we really appreciate it.”

The team at Shire Trees Ltd added: “The Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice Christmas Treecycling is a great idea and we would happily support the event again next year."

Sue Ryder organises a wide range of regional and national events throughout the year to raise crucial funds and provide more care for more people. To see the full event calendar and find your next challenge, visit: sueryder.org/events

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sport

Sandy Cricket Club

Depleted squad stood firm

FOOTBALL – WADERS ROUNDUP BY MIKE DRAXLER

LEISTON.......................................1 BIGGLESWADE TOWN ............0 Tuesday January 25?

Report by a very proud secretary

YOU may not appreciate the waves the resignation of Chris Nunn created, other clubs move in for players and manager applicants by the score.

As it happens Russell Short and Joe Howe caretaker managers took the very depleted squad, down to 12, with the inclusion of two under 18s who had not appeared in the first team.

Various reasons for absence from Covid to not being able to get to Leiston. In the dressing room before the match Chairman Maurice Dorrington gave a Churchillian speech ending in a round of applause.

Josh Hill, Robbie Parker, Kane Farrell, James Peters, Mat Hall, Joe Howe, Blake D'Arcy, Sam Squire, Joe Neal, Ben Stevens, Tom Garrett and Hayden Baker have my full admiration and respect for the way they stood so tall against Leiston.

They gave their all, every sinew stretched as they matched Leiston blow for blow. Joe Neal had chances but was thwarted on a couple of occasions by ex-Wader Sam Donkin, in goal for the home side. After the match James Peters told me that they had runout of steam as the 90th minute winner broke the Wader resolve when Finlay Barnes netted.

BARWELL....................................1 BIGGLESWADE TOWN ............0 Saturday January 29 The outstanding efforts of Tuesday at Leiston came to nothing as the Waders retired back into their shell.

As the score line reflects the defensive line stood tall, James Peters and

Robbie Parker pushed the younger players onwards. But and as you know there always is a BUT, we have forgotten how to put the ball in the net.

I am sure Barwell would agree we had the better chances, just not taken.

The only goal of the game came on 33 as Max Brogan's speculative shot through a crowd of players gave the home side revenge for the mauling we dished out back in October.

With the new manager, Robbie O'Keefe taking over, we are certainly expecting an improvement, miracles take a little longer.

BANBURY UNITED ....................4 BIGGLESWADE TOWN ............0 Tuesday February 1 Being a hefty 50 points ahead of the Waders, it was never going to be easy.

Robbie O'Keefe was there to observe and take stock of the current Wader's team.

Banbury are good, very good and their skill on the ball and understanding between the players is 1st class.

From the off and on the offensive despite a double save from Josh Hill, Benjamin Acquaye opened the scoring on six minutes with a shot from a tight angle.

Biggleswade had their moments, belief has been a constant word through my reports of late, some of the play was good and matching Banbury but we just lacked that certain something. Banbury went further ahead on 40 when a Wader attack broke down and Morgan Roberts ran nearly the length of the pitch to score. At the break 2-0 Out for the second period, with just seven minutes gone Chris Wreh's power shot from just outside the box ended the evening for Biggleswade

as Banbury increased their lead. For the next half hour there was some great football played by both teams but you just got the feeling that the home side had taken their foot off the gas.

A late penalty taken by Wheh was blasted over, but Banbury had another penalty given taken this time by Giogio Rasulo who made no mistake on 90.

STRATFORD TOWN ..................3 BIGGLESWADE TOWN ............3 Saturday February 5 Entering the dressing room on Saturday, I was greeted by the Waders squad plus one new face, Max Granville on work experience from Stevenage.

Same players different line up working on a diamond formation of 1-2-3-3-2 for new manager Robbie O'Keefe's first game in charge.

It worked so well, only a fine save from Stratford keeper Liam O'Brien prevented Biggleswade going ahead in the first 60 seconds.

Settling into this new formation the Waders passed the ball with some quality.

New boy Max Granville running in front of the back line wanted, no, demanded the ball.

When in his possession his ability to spray the ball around with accuracy was a joy to watch and put Biggleswade very much in charge as Stratford backed off.

Robbie Parker had his best game for the boys in green with a tenacious 90 minutes. Joe Neal, the pick of the day, netted after 13 minutes when free in the box his crisp shot beat all.

Five minutes on and a trip on Enoch Andoh gave Joe a second chance as he netted from the penalty

spot. Biggleswade completed the half in the new formation going in two to the good.

After the break, Stratford came out with a new purpose, Shane Bush and Matt Hall both just back from injury were feeling the pace as were other players after giving so much in the first half.

Stratford got a strangle hold on the game as Will Grocott scored from the penalty spot on 60. Tails up Stratford pushed on and equalised on 71 as substitute Owen James Netted from close in.

The pressure kept building and another sub Jack Storer gave the home side the lead on 86. Not to be beaten Biggleswade upped the pace and went searching.

Close to the end Joe Neal secured his hattrick on 90 to give us a point to travel home with.

A fascinating game to watch as both sides looked to steal the advantage.

The artificial all-weather cricket wicket at Sunderland Road Recreation Ground has now been replaced in readiness for the 2022 season. Sandy Cricket Club acquired funding for the project, and the work was undertaken by Durant Cricket.

The artificial wicket will allow better facilities for coaching and junior matches, and is also available to be hired free of charge by all members of the local community. Please contact either Sandy Cricket Club or Sandy Town Council.

NEW ARTIFICIAL ALL-WEATHER WICKET

Following on from the sold-out Comedy Night, Sandy Cricket Club will be hosting a Race Night on Saturday 2nd April 2022. The Race Night is an event for all the family and takes place at Sandy Conservative Club, Bedford Road. For more info please email: cricketclubsandy@gmail.com

RACE NIGHT

Sandy Cricket Club is continuing to offer Walking Cricket sessions on a regular basis. We have male & female participants of all abilities. If you would be interested in having a go, please come along to the sessions on Saturday mornings at Sandy Secondary Schools Sports Hall, 10-11am. All equipment will be provided, so just bring yourselves and get active. No previous experience required.

WALKING CRICKET

Sandy CC Junior Indoor Cricket Sessions continue every Saturday morning at Sandy Secondary School Sports Hall from 9-10am. All new players very welcome to come along and join in. No pre-booking is required, and sessions are open to all local juniors.

JUNIOR INDOOR TRAINING

Sandy CC senior indoor cricket nets & practice take place Sunday afternoons from 2-4pm @ Sandy Secondary Sports Hall. All new players most welcome. First XI will be playing in the Hunts County League whilst the Second XI play in the Beds Invitational Saturday League.

ADULT INDOOR NETS

Sandy Cricket Club is endeavouring to provide ever more cricket opportunities for all members of the local community. If you would like to support us in achieving these aims, please see the many sponsorship opportunities online at our club page via SNAP Sponsorship. Alternatively contact the club via email (cricketclubsandy@gmail.com) or its website to discuss the various sponsorship options (including individual player sponsorships, match ball, etc).

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

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Monthly draws have prizes of £100, £50 & 2 x £25; the December draw has prizes of £300, £130, £100, £75, £50 & £25. For further information, please email: cricketclubsandy@gmail.com Come and support one of your local sports clubs.

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