Mid Beds Bulletin – 2022

YOUR FREE COPY

ISSN 2634-453X

We won!

2021 ESTATE AGENT IN BEDFORD

BEDFORDSHIRE EDITION

MAY 2022

Talk to us...

Sandy and Beeston lose a long-time stalwart of the community It is with the deepest regret we have to announce that our dear friend and colleague, Cllr Max Hill sadly passed away on Friday, April 1, 2022.

Cllr Hill became a member of Sandy Town Council in 2015 to represent Ivel Ward but his service to the community stretched back 30 years when, with his family, he came to live in Beeston and Max took up the position of Headteacher at Sandy Upper School.

Long before becoming a member of Sandy Town Council, Max had involved himself closely with many groups and organisations including

The Twinning Association, forging a new link with Skarszewy in Poland, with the Sandy Sports and Leisure Association and also became a keen supporter of events including the annual Carnival and the Christmas Lights Switch on.

Max was instrumental in the compiling of the Sandy and Beeston Town Plan, 2011 – 2020 which he worked hard with others to update in 2017.

At the time of his passing, Cllr. Hill was Chairman of the Town Council’s Human Resources Committee. It was a role which Max found particularly

fulfilling and his support and encouragement was hugely appreciated by the present team members and by our former Clerk who left us recently.

In addition, Cllr Hill was also a member of the Community Services and Environment and the Policy, Finance and Resources Committees and in all he did for the people of Sandy Cllr Hill acted with dedication, humility and kindness.

Somehow in his busy life Max also found also time for angling and playing cricket, which he did for the Bedfordshire over 70’s until quite recently.

Reacting to the news, the Mayor of Sandy Town Council, Cllr Martin Pettitt said, “This is a time for deep sadness; to reflect and to recall our memories of Max who I was pleased and proud to have known. I considered Max to have been a personal friend, a confidante and colleague for whom I had the greatest regard and respect. At this time especially, all our thoughts, support and love go out to Max’s wife Ros and to their two daughters, grandchildren and extended family, from everyone, not only at Sandy Town Council, but all those who knew Max in Sandy and beyond.”

NOT ALL PLAIN SAILING FOR SWINGERS’ CLUB A BEDFORDSHIRE venue popular with swingers should be barred from allowing under 21s on the premises, according to a local councillor.

by Euan Duncan – Local Democracy Reporter

A request to review the premises licence of The Anchor Lodge at Tempsford has been made by Central Bedfordshire Independent Potton Cllr Tracey Wye.

Events are arranged by an adult members-only club, The Vanilla Alternative, which describes the hotel as “a 16th Century building with a charm and character all of its own, as well as some very personal quirks and oddities”.

Cllr Wye has asked the local authority “to look at modifying the licence so that under 21s aren’t allowed on the premises at any time, given it’s a

swingers/sex club which promotes public/private sexual liaisons”.

The Anchor Lodge is just off the A1 Great North Road, a short distance from the Black Cat roundabout.

In January, it became the registered office address for The Vanilla Alternative Limited, which was promoting itself on social media as the UK’s number one swinging venue, although the most recent post was in 2018.

It proudly refers to “our own hotel and huge hot tub! We host various events every weekend.”

In an email to CBC’s licensing compliance officer Nicola O’Donnell, Cllr Wye said: “One look at the website is enough, I believe, to prevent under 21s at any time.

“Not only from the communal areas, but also from the hotel rooms under the licensing objectives of protection of children from harm, and prevention of crime and disorder.”

Cllr Wye explained in her email:”I’m not casting any aspersions on how the club is run. But I want the sub-committee to consider whether the current licence was issued when The Anchor was an ordinary pub. If so, would the under 16s condition be allowed had the licence been applied for today?

“The website of The Vanilla Alternative suggests a minimum age on the premises of 21 years through its membership scheme.

“I would like the council to support this age minimum throughout the whole premises by changing the licence for the avoidance of confusion, should there be a question about the age of attendees in the future.

“I’ve been asked if there’s a need for this change to the licence based on the age of consent. Should this be brought up, I will argue the age of consent isn’t a suitable discussion on this occasion because of the nature of the activities promoted by the club.”

MEMBERSHIP SCHEME

ODELL’S SHOES 8 St Cuthberts St, Bedford MK40 3JB

01234 358979

SALES & TRADITIONAL REPAIR SERVICE

2

— MAY 2022

TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

Double yellow line reprieve for Sandy residents DOUBLE yellow lines on two local streets would surround a Sandy resident’s house and leave her friends and visitors nowhere to park, a meeting heard.

Residents complained parking was causing issues near Sandy Secondary School especially at pick up and drop off times, according to a report to a Central Bedfordshire Council traffic management meeting.

‘No waiting at any time’ restrictions were planned for the southern section of Medusa Way and in Shannon Close.

“The double yellow lines are intended to prevent obstructive parking and ease the flow of traffic,” said the report.

“This would also address indiscrimi-

by Euan Duncan – Local Democracy Reporter nate parking near the school to improve the safety of pupils travelling to and from the premises.

“The proposal is to upgrade the 8am to 9am and 3pm to 4pm limited parking In Medusa Way to ‘No waiting at any time’, and putting in double yellow lines in Shannon Close at its junction with Medusa Way.” While supportive of the Medusa Way extension of parking restrictions, Sandy Town Council felt the issues locally “wouldn’t be addressed” by similar measures in Shannon Close.

In an email to CBC from town clerk

Chris Robson, it suggested “a scheme focused on limiting traffic at specific times, such as the one in Dapifer Drive where the road is closed to all but residential vehicles at peak periods”.

Local resident Judith Hicks said: “It’s my property that the yellow lines are going all the way round. I can’t understand why we’ve come to this situation.

“Yes, we did have a problem because the two schools amalgamated, Sandye Place Academy in Park Road and Sandy Secondary School.

“So we had this accumulation of cars coming round into Shannon Close. After

Covid everything is fine now. They park outside the Toybox Day Nursery.

“I can’t see there’s a big issue. It’s going right round my house, with yellow lines all around my boundaries.

“What happens with visitors and anyone coming to do work in my house?” she asked. “You’re really just blocking me in and I can’t understand why.”

Principal highways officer Lisa Wright explained: “Concerns have been raised by local residents that parking is causing an issue near the schools.

“Sandy Town Council isn’t supportive of the yellow lines at Shannon Close.

There were four other responses, with two more objections to this part of the scheme.

One step away from a ‘vigilante’ force

SANDY TOWN COUNCIL Councillor Surgeries

during 2022. All Sandy Town Council will be holding a number of Councillor Surgeries and raise any members of the public are welcome to attend, to meet with a Councillor below. queries or concerns. Surgeries will run from 10am - 12 noon on the dates Square Saturday 28th May at the Community Stand, Market Friday 24th June at the Community Stand, Market Square Saturday 20th August at the Community Stand, Market Square Saturday 24th September at the Community Stand, Market Square Saturday 22nd October in the Council Chamber, 10 Cambridge Road

Councillors’ contact details

BEESTON WARD Cllr M P Scott The Gowans Seddington Nursery Great North Road Seddington Sandy SG19 1NZ 01767 680983 (Option 1) scott729@btinternet.com FALLOWFIELD WARD Cllr P Sharman 3 Swallow Crest Sandy SG19 2SN 07889 599556 Cllr Dr N Thompson 46 Kestrel Way Sandy SG19 2TE 01767 683137 Cllr L Ivanciu-Wilkinson C/o Sandy Town Council 10 Cambridge Road Sandy SG19 1JE C/o 01767 681491

IVEL WARD Cllr P Blaine 19 Poplar Close Sandy SG19 1HH 01767 692619 peterblaine.blaine@gmail.com

PINNACLE WARD Cllr P N Aldis 7 Mayfield Court Sandy SG19 1NF 01767 691333 nigel.aldis1@gmail.com

Cllr W Jackson 14 Westfield Gardens Sandy SG19 1HF 01767 682549 will.jackson662@btinternet.com

Cllr C Osborne M.B.E., J.P.Summercourt 2 Leeds Smith Drive Sandy SG19 1LU 01767 682032 Cllr T Knagg 3 Jubilee Close Sandy SG19 1RR 01767 223165 b.knagg2584@outlook.com

Cllr M J Pettitt 42 Swansholme Gardens Sandy SG19 1HL 01767 680082 Cllr A Gibson martin.pettitt@virginmedia.com 1 Allhallows , Sandy SG19 1HS 01767 699517 Cllr S Sutton amandafage@hotmail.com C/o Sandy Town Council 10 Cambridge Road Cllr J Hewitt Sandy Clock Tower Cottage SG19 1JE Hazells Hall, Everton Road 01767 227589 Sandy SG19 2DD 01767 512002 cllr@hewitt10.co.uk

by Euan Duncan – Local Democracy Reporter

Platinum Jubilee Celebration Sandy Town Council is wo rking with Central Bedfordshire Co uncil to secure use of the grounds of Sa ndye Place for a Platinum Jubilee Celebration which will run from 1pm - 9:30pm on Thursday 2nd June 202 2.

Plans are well underway for which will include live mu the event sic, food and drink, and Sandy’s part in the national beacon lighting which will mark this historic occasi on.

Look out for more details soon on the Council’s website and Fac ebook page.

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 9th May 2022 Development Scrutiny Community Services & Environment Monday 16th May 2022 Policy, Finance & Resources 7pm Wednesday 18th May 2022 Annual Town Meeting Sandy Secondary School’s Theatre Hall Monday 23rd May 2022 Development Scrutiny Town Council Annual Meeting See our website for details.

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

FARMERS using third party security companies to patrol their land is a “failure in policing” and “one step away from vigilantism,” a Bedfordshire councillor has claimed.

Freya Morgan, vice-chair NFU Bedfordshire and Huntingdonshire, told the Bedfordshire Police and Crime Panel held on Tuesday, April 5, that some rural communities are using private security patrols.

She said: “In Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire there is a private group, who a lot of us subscribe to, who cover our rural areas at night because we’re not getting that coverage from the police.

“And it’s not just farmers, it’s people in small villages; households and businesses.

“At the moment our crime rates seem to have gone down, and this is purely because we’ve had somebody else helping to do that, and to help the police,” she said.

Cllr Gareth Mackey (Central Bedfordshire) said: “My heart fell to the pit of my stomach when I heard that farmers have got to have third-party security firms effectively patrolling their land because of the failure in the policing.

“This is so disheartening to anyone, and what makes me sort of more concerned about it is that it is one step away from vigilantism.”

Bedfordshire’s police and crime commissioner, Festus Akinbusoye, replied: “I would not want to be saying that we have seen a failure of policing here, without an appreciation of the wider picture of our funding situation.”

“So I would not want to go to the extent that we have seen a failure of policing given the fact that we’ve got such a large rural area, and the police resource and the level of demand when mapped against each other.

“So I think it would be worthwhile caveating your comment there, even though I totally understand exactly where you are coming from,” he said.

Cllr Mackay said: “It is a failure of policing and I’m gobsmacked that the commissioner that doesn’t acknowledge that.

“That’s not to say that there is not work happening, that’s not to say it’s directly Bedfordshire Police’s fault because the commissioner knows I’m a big supporter of the police.

“Whether the blame lies with various governments retrenching the policing over the years, that’s irrelevant at the moment.

“We need to get to the bottom of why people we are responsible for feel the need to go to a third party and quite frankly to not acknowledge that as a failure is quite unforgivable.”

The PCC said he understood the strength of councillor Mackey’s feelings: “To say what you said without acknowledging the fact that per capita, we are one of the least funded police forces in England and Wales with one of the highest risk exposures in the country in some crime areas.

“I think I’ll give it to others to decide for themselves.

“Of course. I would like police officers to be able to attend every single crime, I would want all crimes to be adequately addressed, but we can’t just create enough police officers out of thin air.”

The Beds Bulletin and Kempston Calling are independent publications part of Rosetta Publishing Ltd. Published by ©2022 Rosetta Publishing Limited 30 Radwell Road, Milton Ernest, Bedford MK44 1SH Tel: 07894 935952 Editorial: editorial@rosettapublishing.com Advertising: advertising@rosettapublishing.com Printed by: Iliffe Print Cambridge Ltd. Winship Road, Milton, Cambridge CB24 6PP Regulated by IMPRESS: The Independent Monitor for the Press CIC IMPRESS. 16-18 New Bridge Street, London, EC4V 6AG

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

T 020 3325 4288 E complaints@impress.org.uk w impress.press To view our complaints policy, please visit our website www.rosettapublishing.com

MID BEDS BULLETIN

Cllr R Lock 2 Havelock Close Sandy SG19 1TE sandye.lock767@googlemail.com

We suggest the restrictions aren’t installed there at this time.”

Conservative Arlesey councillor Ian Dalgarno, who chairs the meeting, said: “The recommendation is we implement the double yellow lines in the southern section of Medusa Way as advertised.

“The issue is the proposed double yellow lines in Shannon Close. After the consultation process, the suggestion from highways officers is that we don’t put yellow lines there.

“We’ve listened and I’m pleased to say we won’t be putting yellow lines outside your home,” Councillor Dalgarno, the executive member for community services, told the resident.

MAY 2022 —

EDITORIAL: 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

3

Biggleswade teenage East West Rail invite you girl lived in fear of her to ‘drop in’ to have a chat! drug taking boyfriend THE East West Rail company (EWR) have sent out an open invitation to go along to a public ‘drop in’ to find out more about their plans for the linking of Oxford, Bedford and Cambridge by rail.

The meeting will take place at: 2pm-8pm on Wednesday May 18, at Wyboston Lakes Resort Conference Centre, Great North Road, Wyboston MK44 3AL In a statement EWR said: “The event will provide local residents with an opportunity to understand the project development process and anticipated timescales, and speak face-to-face with members of the team.

“The events will be drop-in style sessions, open to all, and tailored to provide information about the EWR project specific to the local community.

“The events will also provide an opportunity to look at what we consulted on last year – as we are still reviewing the 9,000 responses received during the 2021 consultation and considering how the feedback is used to inform plans for the railway.

“These events will sit outside of the formal consultation process providing an additional

opportunity for residents to talk to members of the EWR Co team present at the event.

“We will use display boards, plans and other materials to help explain and provide information on our proposals and our planned next steps.

“Having reviewed several event spaces in the area, we believe the Wyboston Lakes Resort provides the best option for the community here.

“It sits within the area covered by the Bedfordshire Group, with ample parking and access to local transport. The venue is fully accessible allowing a wide range of participants to engage fully with the event and has rooms of a size that can be scaled up to accommodate the anticipated number of attendees. We feel it is important that residents and businesses potentially directly affected by our proposals have the opportunity to speak to us.

“We want to make sure as many people as possible have an opportunity to come and talk to us at a time that suits them.

“We are planning for the events to run from 2pm-8pm.”

A BIGGLESWADE man who threw and pushed his teenage girlfriend around and whipped her with a wet towel was jailed for 22 months on Wednesday, April 14, 2022 Daniel Page, now 27, began a relationship with the girl in September 2020 when she was just 15.

Prosecutor Neil King told Luton Crown Court that when Page had been drinking or taking drugs he would become violent and controlling towards. her until his arrest in January this year.

He said Page isolated the victim from her family and friends. In Christmas 2020 he turned up at drunk at her front door telling her father: “I am in love with your daughter. Let me be with your daughter.”

Mr King said there were incidents when he threw her around, pushed her and whipped her with a wet towel.

On one occasion, when she had seen an exboyfriend, he smashed her head onto the dashboard of his car.

Page sent threatening messages to the teenager and her father and threatened to pour acid or boiling water over the father. Once he boiled a kettle when he was there.

Cutting the cost of your motoring te Please quno’ when eti ‘Beds Bulling for book

10% T DISCOUN

In a victim personal statement the teenager said: “I am terrified he is going to hurt me again. I am on anti-depressants. I feel I am not safe anywhere.”

She said since knowing Page she had lost self confidence. “He constantly said my family did not love me.

“He told me how ugly and unattractive I am one minute and attractive the next.”

Page of The Dells, Biggleswade appeared for sentence having pleaded guilty to engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour between September 2020 and January this year.

He had nine convictions for 11 offences, including offences relating to two other partners.

Defending, Elizabeth Cobb said: “He appreciates it was not a happy relationship and it was not a way to behave.

“She said he had been held in prison on remand and now felt clean from substance abuse.

Judge Steven Evans said: “He was 25 and she was a child when he first met her. He was the dominating partner. It was behaviour over a prolonged period.”

He made a restraining order banning Page from contacting the teenager or her father for 10 years.

Servicing for all makes and models of vehicle – service, repair and MOT MOT standalone cost £45, if booked with a scheduled service MOT is £30 Free collection and delivery in 15 mile radius Free service wash and vacuum

RGR Garages Cranfield – a family run FORD dealership for over 50 years www.rgr-garages.co.uk MD BEDS BULLETIN

Tel: 01234 750207 High Street, Cranfield MK43 0DG

4

— MAY 2022

TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

Bedford’s leading mobility specialist

STAIR LIFTS FREE H O SURVE ME Y

Walk in nd showers a ed pli baths sup and fitted BRITISH MADE ADJUSTABLE BEDS

GREAT RANGE OF SCOOTERS Over 50 scooters on display

FROM ONLY

£699

FROM ONLY

£595 WHEEL CHAIRS IN STOCK FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY

GREAT RANGE OF FIRESIDE CHAIRS FROM ONLY

£299

KINGSLEY COMPACT RISE/RECLINER CHAIR, DUAL MOTOR

20 RISER RECLINER CHAIRS ON SHOW

£899 Available for next day delivery in a range of fabrics

EX DEMO AND EX HIRE RISER RECLINERS FROM

£250

Visit our showroom or if you are housebound we can offer a home visit to discuss your needs.

THREE AND FOUR WHEELED WALKERS FROM ONLY

£59

————————————————WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU SOON —————————————————

BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

01234 273 172

SALES • HIRE • SERVICING • REPAIR • SPARES Telephone: 7 Brunel Road Open: (off Barkers Lane) Monday to Friday Bedford MK41 9TG 9.30am to 5pm www.angliamobility.co.uk

MAY 2022 —

TEL: 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

Scouting is great for learning life skills ALL the young people at Flitwick Scout Group have been busy this half term, taking part in a fantastic range of activities; having fun, working together and learning skills for life.

Squirrel Scouts (boys and girls aged 4 & 5) were ‘Invested’ into the Group and have been building models and dens, hunting Easter eggs, and crafting a flower for Mothers day. They have also played lots of games, heard lots of stories, and sung lots of songs.

Beaver Scouts (boys and girls aged 6 & 7) also crafted flowers for Mother’s day and have built a water filter while learning about the problems some people have finding safe drinking water.

Beavers have also played games and worked together as a team.

Cub Scouts (boys and girls aged 8 to 10) have worked together to learn how to read a map to find where they are and where they’re going, and have explored the local area. Cubs also collected a lot of items for a food bank and learnt where in the world their food comes from, and made a mozaic coaster for Mothers day.

Scouts (boys and girls aged 10 to 13) have cooked, carved chip forks out of wood, learnt how to safely use an axe and a saw and have also brushed up on their navigation skills. These came in handy at the end of term when some of the Scouts hiked over 11 KM from Cranfield to Bromham where they set up their tents, cooked their tea and camped overnight. For some Scouts, this was their first time camping with the group for over two of years, or their first Scout camp altogether.

Harry Woolgar, one of the Scouts camping said: “my favourite part was making the fires – we cooked on it and later on toasted marshmallows for s’mores”.

Among all these activities, some young people in the group have achieved the top awards for their section. There were multiple evenings this term where Chief Scout Bronze and Silver awards, the top awards in Beavers and Cubs, were presented by Darren Reeve, lead volunteer for the group, who said “It is fantastic to be giving out these awards that represent all the hard work the young people have done. It is great that Flitwick Scouts have continued to achieve them despite the disruption over the past two years”.

To find out more, visit www.flitwickscoutgroup.org.uk/

View from the pulpit Rt Revd Richard Atkinson – Bishop of Bedford A Suff’rer and a Healer I would like to think that by the time you read this the situation in Ukraine has improved. That our prayers for peace have been answered. Sadly, I fear this is unlikely to be case.

If anything, more and more people will be caught up in the suffering of that awful conflict.

Night by night we will hear more testimony from those whose communities have been devastated, whose loved ones have been assaulted and killed, whose lives have been torn apart.

For some that will proof of the irrelevance of God. How can a loving God allow such misery? For others it will, surprisingly maybe, be a time of deeper encounter with the God who far from being remote from the world and its pain, is there in its midst.

The Christian God who was crucified and hung there on the cross.

One of the notable theological developments in the twentieth century, especially in the light of two world wars, was an emphasis not on the power of God but on the suffering of God. An early exponent of this was Revd Geoffrey Studdert Kennedy, better known as Woodbine Willie, a much-loved chaplain to the men in the trenches of the First World War. Pondering

the scandal of a God remote from the world impervious to human suffering, he wrote a poem called ‘The Suffering God’. A key verse draws this out this theme of the God who suffers: Father, if He, the Christ were they Revealer, Truly the first begotten of the Lord, Then must Thou be a Suff’rer and a Healer Pierced to the heart by the sorrow of the sword.

God, far from being remote is with us in our pain, suffering with us.

It is that reality that often those who I meet for Confirmation, or to talk about their faith, are people experiencing deep challenges in their lives. I still hold in my prayers the father whose twelve-year-old daughter died suddenly.

Awful as it was, he spoke of finding God present in that moment of loss. And he is not alone.

When my Uncle, a Methodist preacher, was dying my cousin, placed into his hands a small holding cross. A photo of this was included in his funeral service order.

It spoke profoundly of God’s presence in that darkness of the end of life; of the God who is indeed a suff’rer and a healer.

DAVID J FRAS PLUMBING & HEATING LTD FRIENDLY, RELIABLE SERVICE EVERY TIME — NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL l l l l

Boiler services and repairs Boiler replacements Heating system upgrades Radiators and towel radiators

l l l l

Powerflushing Underfloor heating Wireless controls Cylinder replacements

l Bathroom & wetroom installations l Taps, showers, ball valves l All general plumbing & heating

maintenance

Mob: 07866 926433 567084

Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Saturday 8am-1pm

Featured Brands:

Call or visit for all your electrical supplies

Trade & Public Welcome Your local LED lighting specialist

+ LOADS MORE

BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

Tel: 01234 857800 2a Howard Street, Kempston MK42 8EA elliottelectricalsuppliesltd@hotmail.co.uk

Visit our website or find us on Facebook

www.elliottelectricalsupplies.co.uk

5

18 ST MARTINS WAY, BEDFORD, MK42 0LF

01234 216720

TUE - FRI: 9 - 5 / SAT: 10 - 4 • WWW.QPINTERIORS.CO.UK

6

— MAY 2022

TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

Planting a new 38-hectare Community Woodland as part of The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee A NEW 38-hectare woodland on a Community Forest in an historic Bedfordshire setting has been renamed “Queens Wood” and will help to serve as a fitting tribute for Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee.

Teams from the Forest of Marston Vale Trust and the Woodland Trust were joined by HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Helen Nellis at a naming event on Wednesday, April 20, to mark the launch of the new Queens Wood Community Woodland as part of the Forest of Marston Vale, a Community Forest stretching between Bedford and Milton Keynes.

The site on the Ampthill and Houghton Conquest border has been planted with more than 35,000 native trees and shrubs in the past two years, and another 13,000 will go in the ground next winter to complete planting.

The name “Queens Wood” was first suggested by local residents as part of the public consultation process in 2019, to reflect the area’s historic connection to Catherine of Aragon and its location adjacent to Kings Wood ancient woodland and site of special scientific interest (SSSI).

With support from HM LordLieutenant of Bedfordshire Helen Nellis, the partnership has been granted permission to use the protected title “Queens Wood” by the Sovereign, acting on behalf of Her Ministers.

The new woodland is part of the Woodland Trust Platinum Jubilee

Bancroft said: “At a time where urgent action is needed to start reversing the current twinned climate and nature crisis is, the role of trees and woods has never been so important, whilst also providing huge benefits for our health and well-being.

“The Woodland Trust and the

Forest of Marston Vale have a long history of working in partnership with each other, and Queens Wood is a great example of this, creating a new native woodland for both people and wildlife.

“It’s fantastic that Queens Wood has been recognised as part of The Queens Green Canopy project.”

National first for two Directors

Woods project to plant up to 70 woods of 70 acres UK-wide as a living tribute to Her Majesty, as part of the wider Queen’s Green Canopy initiative – a unique tree-planting initiative which is inviting people from across the UK to ‘Plant a Tree for the Jubilee’.

James Russell, Forest Director at the Forest of Marston Vale Trust, said: “This has been a fantastic site to work on and we’re proud to establish Queens Wood as part of the Community Forest.

“The historic significance of the land was taken into consideration when we planned the site, and the scheme was designed to be sensitive to the area as well as providing huge environmental and social benefit to local people. It’s fantastic to have this reflected in its new name.”

The land for Queens Wood was acquired by the Woodland Trust, with incredible help and support

from The David Webster Charitable Trust, and is being planted and controlled via a 999-year lease to the Forest of Marston Vale Trust.

HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Helen Nellis said: “The people of Bedfordshire have been very active and enthusiastic in planting thousands of trees in every parish to celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee and to show their faith in the future.

“The planting of Queens Wood in such an historic site of the county is a great way to pay tribute to Her Majesty’s 70 years of dedicated service and as a Community Woodland, it will be enjoyed by many for years to come.”

The new planting will see a combination of species including oak, hornbeam, wild cherry and alder. They were specifically chosen for their ability to tolerate and address increasing temperatures in the face of climate change and

provide a resource for local people to enjoy by foot, bike or horse for generations to come.

The project is being delivered by the Forest of Marston Vale as part of their ‘Trees for Climate’ woodland creation programme, part of the Government-led Nature for Climate fund. The planting at Queens Wood has also been made possible with a generous donation from the Robert Steel Memorial Grant from The Steel Charitable Trust.

James Russell added: “We know that only 7% of our native woodlands are in good condition in the UK. Over time, the wildlife currently confined to the ancient woodland will be able to expand out and take up residence in the new woodland, helping improve the resilience of our woodlands and their wildlife to the impacts of climate change.”

Woodland Trust Regional Director for Central England Toby

TWO Directors of The Bedford College Group have been chosen to be among the first ‘Research Further’ scholars.

In October 2021, The Association of Colleges and NCFE joined forces to launch Research Further – a scholarship programme supporting further education practitioners to carry out Masters or doctorate level study.

Only 11 scholars from across AoC member colleges in the UK were chosen by Research Further’s high calibre advisory board. The scholars will now undertake funded research into areas of post-16 teaching practice and policy.

Topics to be researched are wide-ranging and will cover finance, inequalities, regional outcomes and culture and best practice. Colleges have confirmed that their Research Further scholars will be given one day per week of remission to carry out the work.

They will be supported by the advisory board, consisting of representatives from government, awarding organisations, funders,

and sector leaders from across the UK, and will soon start to support each other and the wider research community in FE through a series of written pieces and webinars.

Pat Jones, Executive Director of Finance, The Bedford College Group – whose research will look at achieving sustainable financial health for the FE sector.

Catherine Lloyd, Director of Land Based Studies, Shuttleworth College (The Bedford College Group) – who will research the delivery of courses at a time of significant change in the wider agricultural sector.

The Will Writing Company

www.thewillwritingco.co.uk

Contact us now for a free care assessme nt

01234 481360

• Alzheimer's & Dementia care • Meal Preparation • Medication Support

• Washing & Dressing • Hospital to Home • Respite & Holiday care

Our wide range of services support people to continue living happily and independently at home.

Mayfair House 11 Lurke Street, Bedford MK40 3HZ Tel: 01234 964911

Free Will & Testament

The Will Writing Company is celebrating its 25th Year in business and is offering a free Will & Testament (joint or single) to all readers. If you have been meaning to make a Will, now is your chance to take advantage of this exclusive offer and give you and your loved ones peace of mind. By making a Will, you decide who takes care of your children and who inherits your estate. Storage facility optional.

To take advantage of this offer and book an appointment or for further information please call our offices on the above number between the hours of 9:00am-5:30pm Monday to Friday.

OFFER ENDS 31st May 2022

FREE WILL VOUCHER

This voucher entitles you to a FREE Mirror Will (normal cost £125) or a FREE Single Will (normal cost £85) Valid until 31st May 2022

01234 481360 bedford@rightathome.co.uk www.rightathome.co.uk/bedford

The Will Writing Company Mayfair House, 11 Lurke Street, Bedford, Beds, MK40 3HZ Tel 01234 964911 Email enquiries@thewillwritingco.co.uk Terms and Conditions. Office appointments only. This voucher can not be exchanged for cash.

The voucher must be produced at your appointment.

MID BEDS BULLETIN

8

— MAY 2022

TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

College powered up for Pearson awards THE Motor Vehicle team at The Bedford College Group have been short-listed in the prestigious Pearson National Teaching Awards.

Led by Head of Department, James Woolley, they spend the past 12 months transforming a former College engineering site in Brunel Road, into a stateof-the-art facility for electric vehicle training.

The new Advanced Automotive Technology Centre was not part of the Group’s original capital project plans, so Head of Motor Vehicle, James Woolley pitched his redevelopment ideas to the senior leadership team and managed the project himself.

The overriding objective was to ensure the College could lead the way, offering cutting-edge training in electric vehicle maintenance.

James said: “By 2030 the sale of new petrol or diesel vehicles in England will be prohibited – that’s only eight years away. Last year 10% of the new car market was electric and hybrid, that will only increase. We want to be at the forefront of the motor vehicle training – no other college in the region is currently running these courses and of the hundreds of local garages and repairs shops locally only a handful are qualified – others are turning away work on electric vehicles.”

The team have ensured that the new Centre has the latest modern equipment and its own hybrid vehicle to train technicians and give them the knowledge and skills required to work safely on electric and hybrid vehicles whilst carrying out routine maintenance and repair activities. They have designed the facility with a specific workshop for each course level, each with its own repair bays, engines and specific tooling equipment. The body repair area has a paint mixer and spray rooms.

The Level 4 area has a specialist hybrid bay with brand new Bosch diagnostics equipment which were purchased with a 50% discount that James negotiated.

The Bosch team also arranged to give Motor Vehicle staff a full day’s training. James was able to arrange more savings with Farecla, an international bodywork company, after some of the department’s students won their UK bonnet painting competition. Farecla gave the team free sanding and painting equipment in addition to tooling and polishing tools.

In his plans, James included a giant balcony over the workshops, areas for staff to sit and relax at lunchtime and student areas with sofas, chairs, table tennis and a canteen. Even details such as housing the giant compressor outside the workshop was based on the team’s past experience of noisy workshops and ensured that the new Centre was much quieter.

All classrooms in the Centre have giant Samsung

BOSCH EQUIPMENT

Bedford Vehicle Servicing & Tyres Using Technology that YOU can depend on!

• Batteries • Brakes • Clutches • Cooling Systems • Diagnostics Tuning • Exhausts • Oil Change • Rotating Electrics • Steering & Suspension

01234 216662 56 College Street Kempston MK42 8LU MON-FRI 8am-5.30pm SAT 8am-1pm

BEDFORD residents are invited to a new and exciting exhibition, curated by Caroline Wendling as part of the Take Part Queen’s Park project, at The Higgins Bedford until 12 June 2022.

Archipelago, will be on display at The Higgins, and it will celebrate the vibrancy of Queen’s Park using film, embroidery and clay.

The film was shot in Queen’s Park with contributions from Queen’s Park residents.

Elaine Midgley, Bedford Creative Arts’ Director, said: “Take Part Queen’s Park is an art project both inspired by and created with members of the community of Queen’s Park in Bedford. Caroline

SAVE £5 Tel: 01234 823033

While stocks last with this voucher

MILTON ERNEST GARDEN CENTRE Radwell Road (just off the A6) Milton Ernest MK44 1SH

MERCEDES LINKS

has been working in Queen’s Park since 2020, exploring the area with walks, and holding workshops at Queen’s Park Academy, the community centre and Presentation House (Stonewater - Independent Living Accommodation for elders).

“Caroline has engaged residents of all ages with the creative arts through this project and has invited participants to share their sense of place and community with the wider residents of Bedford through this exhibition.”

Caroline is one of three resident artists who has been working in Queen’s Park to explore the culture, talents and memories of residents and present their stories through new works of art.

Caroline’s work is about ideas of place and the feeling of belonging. She explores history, local myths and invites people to reimagine local sites. She put those feelings into material form, via the clay pots and embroidery that make up part of the Archipelago exhibition.

Caroline said: “Queen’s Park is like an archipelago [a group of islands]– a place where people who each have their own cultures and traditions come together to form one unique, vibrant and unified community.”Residents who took part in the workshops said: l “I had no idea I would enjoy doing embroidery so much, my mother would have been really impressed.” l “I really enjoyed the embroidery workshop my daughters loved being taught by you.” l “It was so relaxing and calming I will do more embroidery at home.” l “Manipulating the clay reminded me of my childhood living near the river in Bangladesh, as kids we would always make things out of clay.”

To find out more and to book your free entry please visit https://www.thehigginsbedford.org. uk/Exhibitions/Archipelago_Take_ Part_Queen’s_Park.aspx

BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

www.miltonernestgardencentre.co.uk

The links that the team have with the motor vehicle industry are exceptional. James has arranged for three students to gain work experience with Mercedes. In addition, Mercedes have agreed to come in to train Level 3 students on the new electric E-class Mercedes have developed, ensuring all students gain exposure to one of the top-end electric cars that has so far been launched on the market.

What’s more, the team have been chosen to teach the body paint workers from Fairline Yachts, one of the world’s leading luxury yacht companies, in September. They are exceptionally proud to have been selected and have no doubt that their state-of-the-art new facilities and equipment have a large part to play in Fairline Yacht’s decision.

Jo Baxter, Director of Science and Technology said: “The Motor Vehicle team here at The Bedford College Group have been an inspiration to other areas of the College over the past two years. They have worked tirelessly to improve the facilities for learners and provide a cutting-edge learning environment. The introduction of new vehicle technologies in electric and hybrid have given learners the opportunity to explore modern methods of working. The team have also forged some strong links with industry partners such as the Founders Group to help support learners in their development whilst studying at the College.”

Take part Queen’s Park Community Exhibition

GARDEN HOSES WITH THIS VOUCHER when you buy any GARDEN HOSE or HOSE AND TROLLEY

TVs on the wall and every Motor Vehicle tutor has a hybrid laptop / tablet that automatically pairs with the screens when they walk into the classroom.

The team gave up their summers to help finish off the renovations and ensure that the 54 students who had already enrolled on courses were able to start in September 2021.

The new, expanded facility has already enable the Motor Vehicle Team to grow the number of students which have increased by 15% from 130 students in 2020 to 150 students in 2021 and the team are currently working with Bedford Borough Council to train their vehicle technicians. In previous years there were three Level 1 cohorts, whereas this year there were four. In addition, the team have launched a new course in Automotive Studies Advanced, Level 4 and the new Level 3 Electric/Hybrid Vehicle System Repair and Replacement course.

Alistair McCrindle CAE MIMI, External Quality Assurer – South Region said: “‘The new Centre James and his staff designed, project managed and built, is a credit to themselves. The facilities, and student experience they have created, is purpose built for the modern Motor Industry and a credit to Bedford College.”

MAY 2022 —

TEL: 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

Millbrook golfers raise tee-rific £11,788 GENEROUS golfers from The Millbrook Golf Club near Ampthill swung into action to raise thousands of pounds for Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice.

The club has raised a total of £11,788 for the Bedfordshire hospice, which cares for local people with life-limiting conditions.

Led by Danny Lang, the club’s Captain for 2020-2021, the golfers teed off their fundraising with a Captain’s Drive In day in early 2020.

Then, when the coronavirus pandemic began and the first national lockdown put their fundraising plans on pause, they set up a JustGiving page appealing for donations.

In summer 2021, as pandemic restrictions eased, the club’s

members were finally able to come together for a successful Captain’s Charity Day on August 21.

Around 130 people enjoyed a fun-filled day with activities such as a putting course competition, a beat the pro competition with the Club Professional Andrew Coleman and a barbecue. There was also a raffle and an auction with prizes such as luxury golfing holidays, memorabilia from the London 2012 Summer Olympics, and a Christmas dinner.

The Captain’s Charity Day raised £9,029 for Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice, bringing the club’s overall total raised to £11,788.

Danny Lang, The Millbrook Golf Club Captain for 2020-2021, said: “A huge thank you to everyone at the club for their help and support with fundraising – it was a

Lady Jane is the new High Sheriff of Bedfordshire

BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

THE new High Sheriff of Bedfordshire for 2022/2023 was installed on Sunday, April 3, 2022.

Lady Jane Clifford, who succeeded Eric Masih, was sworn in at a ceremony at Elstow Abbey.

Lady Clifford was born in Tanzania where her father, Sir George Paterson, was Attorney General. She was brought up in Sierra Leone, Ghana and Zambia as her family moved around with her father’s work, latterly as Chief Justice. One of her earliest memories was accompanying her parents to the Assizes in a huge dug out canoe crossing the Zambezi River as there were no roads or bridges.

In Ghana, Sir George worked with Kwame Nkrumah to ensure the smooth transition to independence.

Jane finished her education in Dorset before moving to London to read Art History at the Courtauld Institute, London University. It was during this time that she met her future husband, Timothy.

Jane started out as a lecturer for the Workers’ Educational Association in Manchester before becoming the art critic of the Daily Telegraph. At the same time, she began closely assisting Laura Ashley, finding and copying antique wallpaper and textile designs and writing books about furnishing and decorating houses for the company. After Laura’s tragic death, Jane moved to Zoffany, another wallpaper and fabric manufacturer.

While her husband was directing the Manchester City Art Galleries, Jane set up and ran the events for the Friends. When Timothy moved to direct the National Galleries of Scotland, Jane performed a similar role for the Patrons. Supporting her husband’s role took up a lot of her time and her career was put on hold.

Timothy was knighted by Her Majesty in 2002.

After their retirement in 2010 the Cliffords moved to Bedfordshire to be nearer London and their only daughter and grandson.

Jane has helped various charities to organise large scale events, including Help the Aged, Save the Children and the NSPCC. She is a keen bridge player and founded a book club which is still going strong after 30 years. They own a small house in Umbria in Italy; Jane speaks Italian and is a great Italophile.

Jane feels very honoured to have been nominated as High Sheriff for Bedfordshire for 202223 and will endeavour to serve the county to the best of her ability.

real team effort. I am really proud of what we have achieved, especially as we fundraised over two disrupted years because of the pandemic.

“Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice is a great local charity and I decided I was going to help them in any way I could. My wife has family friends who have been cared for at the hospice. We also keep bees, and Ian, our beekeeping mentor who taught us how to look after them, was cared for at the hospice at the end of his life.

Fundraising was a way of being able to give back.

“The Captain’s Charity Day was a brilliant day, organised by the members. Everyone pulled together and wanted to help – from flipping burgers and sponsoring holes to generously donating prizes

and food. I hope our fundraising might inspire others to give it a go.”

Live well, way,

your

with care at home Your home is where you feel the most comfortable and the happiest. It is the place you know the best. If you want to stay living comfortably at home, Home Instead ® can help make that possible.

Call 01234 868820 or visit

www.homeinstead.co.uk/bedford Each Home Instead franchise is independently owned and operated. Copyright © Home Instead® 2021.

Proud sponsors of

9

12

CHAMPIONS

— MAY 2022

TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

New forest in the making for Shackleton Primary

PUPILS at Shackleton Primary School, off Elstow Road in central Bedford, have planted a new forest with more than 400 saplings alongside volunteers from the local housing association and community.

The children planted 10 different species of trees, donated by the Woodland Trust, which will create a special area on their school grounds to explore and enjoy for future generations.

Andy George, Head of Shackleton Primary School, said planting the new trees would, in time, “create an illusion of being lost in the woods”. The school, which is part of HEART Academies Trust, has run Forest School activities for several years.

“Experiential learning opportunities are one of the most important aspects of the education we provide at Shackleton, and across HEART Academies Trust,” Andy said.

“It’s vital that, from an early age, children are immersed in language, imagination and creativity as much as possible. In years to come, children will walk our daily mile track through a forest and discover all the wonderful sights and sounds along the way. Engaging children in stories and language is key to developing a love of read-

ing. Bringing to life tales like Little Red Riding Hood or The Gruffalo.

Let’s hope they are brave enough to go in to the deep, dark woods!”

Jim Playle, Community Engagement Officer at bpha, a community housing association in Bedford, said the project was a particular favourite with his organisation’s volunteers.

“Not only does it fit perfectly with our aims to support the local community and the environment, but everyone had a fun time and all the volunteers enjoyed engaging with the children who were a delight to work with,” he said.

The school recently welcomed Bedford MP, Mohammad Yasin, Bedford Mayor Dave Hodgson and local councillors Abu Sultan and Fouzia Zamir Atiq to see the newly-planted trees.

Meanwhile, at Cauldwell Primary School, on Edward Road in Bedford, which is also part of HEART Academies Trust, pupils have been celebrating the arrival of a new hedgerow, kindly donated by the Woodland Trust.

They have planted flowers and shrubs to encourage new wildlife to the area and to create a natural border for Cauldwell’s Forest School area.

Connor Tomlinson shows his determination against

Drew Richardson uses his head against St Neots in 1-1 draw

Craig Mackail-Smith looking for options against St Neots in 1-1 draw Photography courtesy of Adrian Brown

Lewis Miccio wins the header in 2-0 win against AFC Dunstable

TEL: 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

MAY 2022 —

On the road with the Eagles who win their league and are promoted to the Southern League Central Premier Division

AFC Dunstable in 2-0 win for Eagles

Ralph Allen, Chairman, collects Team of the Month Award

Hugh Alban-Jones gets a toe-in against St Neots in 1-1 draw

Renee Howe is stuck in against Wantage Town in 7-0 win

Drew Richardson mixes it with the goalkeeper in Bedford win over Aylesbury United in 2-1 win

13

14

— MAY 2022

LAWN DOCTOR

THIS month, I continue to look at how relatively inexpensive and commonplace household materials can be used in the garden as non-chemical controls for weeds etc. Following winter’s mixed bag of weather, it seems a number of you are concerned about the rampant growth of moss on drives and other hard standing areas.

To some, it is merely unsightly but to many it is a potentially dangerous, slippery hazard. Although these days, there are many products promising its straight forward removal, many contain harsh chemicals that may damage other areas.

One cheap and reasonably safe alternative is the use of soda crystals also known as washing soda. Firstly, the area to be treated needs to be damp.

Then, simply scatter the crystals liberally and wait. In a couple of days, the moss and algae will change colour becoming golden brown. Then, using a stiff garden broom, simply brush and collect the debris.

Carefully using a hoe may shift particularly stubborn areas but take care not to damage the hard standing material underneath. And there you have it!

This time every year, I get a number of people rendered incredulous by an ugly and according to some, environmentally damaging occurrence that suddenly seems to appear.

They all want to know what on earth has happened to the base of the lamp posts, road signs, trees and other obstacles as the grass looks to be bleached or dying off? In short, your beloved council have once again been around with their dreaded weed killer and literally wiped out everything that grows in these areas.

Why? So that they do not have to strim it is the answer. Obviously,

this is a policy underpinned by financial concerns but I implore any of you that feel strongly about it, either for aesthetic or environmental reasons, to contact Bedford Borough Council via: Telephone: 01234 718 099 or Email: customerservices@bedford.gov.u k, or Central Bedfordshire Council via: Telephone: 0300 300 8302 or Email: customers@central bedfordshire.gov.uk .

An area of horticulture that I have previously not said too much about relates to those plants that are grown indoors.

A regular contributor has come to the rescue and suggested that now is a good time to move houseplants into larger pots with fresh compost as all plants, whether in pots or in the ground, need root space to enable growth.

If you have a problem with weeds in your garden, chances are you do not have enough plants to fill the space.

As we all know, nature abhors a vacuum so fill your beds and borders with what you want to see or else, you will get what you don’t want to see!

The answer to last month’s ‘just for fun’ quiz question is, Ffion has, in recent times become a popular girl’s name, what plant is Ffion the Welsh word for? Answer, the foxglove.

From Welsh to Irish, this month’s question, what very prevalent plant is known in Northern Ireland by the highly appropriate nickname, Garden Plague? 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 you may have at: lawndocgardens@aol.com or tel: 01767 627 581 or 07796 328 855.

TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

Uniformed organisations are growing steadily

UNIFORMED organisations across Bedfordshire are looking for volunteers to help run their Groups and Units. At a recent meeting of Bedfordshire Youth United, Karen Keeling, lead volunteer for Bedfordshire Girlguiding detailed they had

approximately one thousand girls on their waiting list.

Many of the uniformed organisations will be attending town carnivals and festivals over the next few months to try and recruit some more volunteers.

Nigel Taylor, Chairman of

Bedfordshire Youth United said, “During the pandemic, all our organisations lost some members.

However, with the lifting of restrictions, we have seen the numbers of children and young people wanting to join rise and we are looking for volunteers to give these young people opportunities to grow and develop.”

Nigel added, “There are great opportunities to work with young children from age four and upwards or to work with teenagers.

What we can guarantee is that you will have a great deal of fun as a

volunteer and you will be proud seeing those young people develop new skills.”

The ten uniformed organisations are Air Cadets, Army Cadets, Boys Brigade, Fire and Rescue Cadets, Girlguiding, Girls Brigade, Police Cadets, Scouts, Sea Cadets and St John Ambulance.

If you are interested in becoming an adult volunteer with any of the uniformed organisations please visit https://forms.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/officeforms/Volunteer _form_for_bedfordshire_ organisations.ofml

Member of Parliament for North East Bedfordshire

ADVICE SURGERIES

AROUND THE CLUBS BIGGLESWADE IVEL TOWNSWOMEN’S GUILD

Chairman, Ann Taylor welcomed members to the Biggleswade Ivel Townswomen’s Guild meeting on Monday, April 11. Birthday greetings were given to Alison Careless, Yvonne Crane, Chris Davies and Pam Peacock.

Since the last meeting the walking group met at Priory Marina Bedford followed by lunch at Blossom Café, Willington. Ann Taylor represented the guild at the town civic service at St Andrew’s Church on Sunday, March 20. An outing has been arranged to the flower festival at Long Sutton followed by a visit to Springfields on Tuesday, May 3.

Ann presented 50 year long service awards to Yvonne Crane and Gill Hibbert. Joint competition winners for the past year, Alison Careless and Pauline Dover had a trophy to share for six months each.

Ann gave a report on the final meeting of the Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire federation, when it was decided, due to lack of support, the federation would close.

Trevor Gunton, who worked at the RSPB for 30 years, was the speaker for the afternoon with a talk entitled “finding out more about birds”. He and his wife started by showing a number of bird photos and tea towels and asked members to identify the birds. In

the UK the annual purchase of bird seed amounts to 150 tons costing £250 millions pounds. Surprisingly the commonest breeding bird in Britain is the wren followed by the robin. Fifty million birds have disappeared in the last 15 years. The chaffinch and greenfinches are in decline, whilst there is a rise in the numbers of jackdaws, goldfinches and long tailed tits.

Mr Gunton then moved on to his involvement with the friends of Paxton Pits nature reserve.

Biodiversity is the key to this year’s projects which are to create artificial nests for sand martins; insect hotels; installing rafts to create a safe nesting site for terns and moth trapping. The pits cover 193 acres and are open all the year. It was a very entertaining and informative talk.

The competition for something beginning with W was won by Chris Davies with a mini wheelie bin, 2nd Liz Stirratt, washing machine cleaner and 3rd Sheila Mills, wine glass with small bottle of wine.

The next meeting is Monday, May 9 when the speaker will be Lyn Croot talking about scuba diving in Tobago.

The guild meets on the second Monday of the month pm at the Orchard Community Centre, Sullivan Court, Biggleswade new members and visitors are very welcome to join us.

Richard holds regular surgeries across North East Bedfordshire.

If you would like to book an appointment, please call 01767 313385

MID BEDS BULLETIN

MAY 2022 —

TEL: 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

diary Bedford Folk & Acoustic Club: Every Thursday 8:30pm -

11pm, 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. Find us on facebook, or come and meet us at the Bowls Pavilion. Contact:

Bedford RSPB: Sunday 1st May, Dawn Chorus. Meet 5am in the Priory Country Park, Barkers Lane, Bedford MK41 9DJ (TL 072 493. Followed by breakfast in the local Toby Carvery. Joint event with Beds Bird Club Indoor Meeting & AGM. Meet at ARA club, Manton Lane Bedford MK41 7PF. Thursday 19th May. Meeting 7.30pm aiming to finish by 9.30pm. Ouse Fen: ‘Creating the wetlands of the future’. Presentation

by Chris Hudson. Chris is ‘Senior Sites Manager Fen Drayton Lakes and Ouse Fen’ and is actively involved in the restoration of the Fens. Suitable for Experts and Novices, RSPB membership not essential. Entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 annual group membership £5 under 18s enter free.

Contact: 07905 199769 www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford Evening walk. Thursday 26th May at Stewartby Lake. Meet at 7pm in the old A421 lay-by eastern end of Marston Moretaine, near MK43 0LE (TL 002 426) Bedford Art Society: 6th

May Friday 2022. meeting, 7.15 for 7.30 start, at Putnoe Heights Church, Bedford, MK418EB Keith Hornblower paints architecture in watercolour. His approach is dynamic, applying paint at speed creating a spontaneous effect.

His subject this evening is Venice.

Entry is free for members, £5 for visitors. Contact: Jean Paterson 01234 307210 or www.bedsartsociety.co.uk for information.

GARY BERRIDGE

Plastering and general maintenance INCLUDING:

● UPVC doors and windows ● Facias and guttering ● Tiling ● Free estimates ● Painting & decorating

Tel: 01767 316485 07582 485155

15

Ink or toner low? Think...

Bedford National Trust Association: The next meeting

will be our AGM at the Addison Centre in Kempston at 2.30 on June 21st There will be the AGM, refreshments and a speaker for 30 minutes. Mike Muncaster will talk on “Gone for a Burton”.

He has come as our speaker in the past and we always enjoy his talks.

There is no admission charge for the AGM. Everyone is welcome. There is plenty of parking. For further information Contact: Robin Salter on 01234 261897

Biddenham Gardeners Association: Tuesday 17th

May 2020 at 7.30. Biddenham Village Hall “Have Garden – Will travel” By Steffie Shields.

Visitors very welcome Admission £5 per meeting for non members – includes Raffle & Refreshments Tuesday 21st June 2020 at 7.30, Biddenham Village Hall. “A portrait of a Victorian Garden” By Russell Bowes.

Visitors very welcome Admission £5 per meeting for non members – includes Raffle & Refreshments www.biddenhamgardeners association.org.uk Contact:

Car Boot Sale: Milton Ernest

Garden Centre, Radwell Road, Milton Ernest MK44 1SH, Cars £5, vans £10. Sellers setup 9am, Buyers 10am-2pm.

Sundays May 1, June 12, July 3, August 7, September 4, October 2 No need to book a stall, bring your own table Horticultural Show Bank Holiday August 29

Family Fun Day and Dog Show Sunday September 11 Contact: (01234) 823033 or enquiries@miltonernestgarden centre.co.uk

To advertise your club, group or society in these columns please email your copy to: advertising@ rosettapublishing.com Please include a contact telephone number. These columns are for non-profit making organisations

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.

Sandy Branch of The Leprosy Mission: Friday

May 6th, a Concert by the renowned Sandy Ukulele Band in the Sandy Baptist Church Hall at 7pm.

Tickets at £6 each are available from Colin Osborne.

Contact: 01767 682032).

In aid of The Leprosy Mission.”

10% Discount Voucher Use this discount voucher to receive 10% off anything in-store, or use voucher code ‘NEWS6’ to get 10% off online.

Offer expires on 30th September 2022. Only one voucher to be used per customer & per transaction. This Voucher cannot be used in conjunctionwith any other offer or with a Cartridge Depot Discount Card. ©2022 Cartridge Depot.

All rights reserved. Terms & conditions apply.

One of Bedfords largest stockists of printer FREE cartridges including DELIVERY original, compatible AVAILABLE Please ask! & remanufactured ink & toner cartridges.

Cartridge Depot 30 St. Loyes Street, Bedford MK40 1EP E-Mail: info@cartridge-depot.co.uk Tel: 01234 910908 www.cartridge-depot.co.uk

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.

Tudor Reeds Folk Dance Club: Barn dance group meets

every other Wednesday 8-10pm, St Mark’s Church Hall, Brickhill. £2 inc refreshments Contact: Jenny 01234 217621

8pm Sunday 1st May, At the Five Bells in Henlow Village, a Fun Charity Quiz evening in aid of SERV (Service by Emergency Response Volunteers) who provide emergency blood-running and human milk deliveries to hospitals etc in the Herts and Beds area.

Teams of up to 6 members are invited with entry £2.50 per person.

Prizes for first and last places, together with spot prizes and a raffle.

Further contact: John at quizzesforcharity@outlook.com or 07511 631045.

Fun Charity Quiz Night:

YOUR LOCAL CLEANING COMPANY

HOMEBRIGHT Fully vetted and insured cleaners at affordable rates

Boarding Kenn e s i r Sun4 Great North Road, Chawston, els Bedford MK44 3BD

BOARDING KENNELS ■ Weekly house cleans ■ One off spring cleans ■ Ironing service

The Kennels are situated in a rural environment, yet with easy access from A1 (Black Cat Roundabout). Fully insulated and heated kennels with spacious outer run.

Dogs walked three times a day, inspection welcome.

Contact:

01480 215900

Call Angela for a FREE quote

Visit: www.sunriseboardingkennels.com

Office 01767 222141 Mob 07807 452974

ROOFING

www.homebrightcleaners.co.uk BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

To advertise here call 07894 935952

• Tiles • Slates • Guttering • Facias (uPVC) • Lead work

J Swaine ESTABLISHED 40 YEARS

Office (9-5): 07508 639951 Evenings: 07963 556946

16

— MAY 2022

TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

A warehouse full of all the things you need for your next art and craft project Colemans Craft Warehouse is an Aladdin’s Cave of Art, Craft and Hobby products, which is open to the public seven days a week.

With over 15,000 products in stock covering papercraft, home décor, haberdashery, floral craft, fine art, jewellery making and so much more, if you love crafting then you will be sure to fall in love with this place.

They also have a full workshop programme with courses in everything from crochet to cardmaking and felting to fine art.

There is free parking right outside and the store is fully accessible for wheelchairs.

There is also a lovely café serving tea, coffee and cake.

You can get a delicious Cream Tea for just £3!

On the first Saturday of each month they have fantastic event days.

Entry is free and you’ll get

to experience live demonstrations, incredible offers and you can even have a go at some crafting yourself!

Head down to Colemans Craft Warehouse on 7th May for a fun filled ‘Art For All’ day.

They will be running Watercolour For Beginners classes with the wonderful Melanie Henson.

Give them a call on 01933 355530 to book your spot on either the morning (10am12pm) or afternoon (1pm3pm) session. The class will cost just £15 and all your materials will be included.

They are located just two minutes from Rushden Lakes on Brindley Close which is opposite Lidl, and next door to Screwfix.

You’ll be greeted by a friendly team who are on hand to give expert help and advice with any projects that you might be working on.

gardening Celebrating the 70 years of Queen Elizabeth’s reign

by Maureen Catlin

T

with Milton Ernest Garden Centre

he Queen’s Green Canopy Initiative is a concept inviting people in the UK to plant trees as a lasting legacy to honour The Queen’s leadership and service to the nation for the last 70 years.

The aim is to help the environment by planting trees during her Platinum Jubilee Year. Planting more trees is our most powerful weapon in the fight against climate change.

Trees are the ultimate carbon capture and storage machines.

Like great carbon sinks, woods and forests absorb atmospheric carbon and lock it up for centuries through photosynthesis.

The entire woodland ecosystem plays a huge role in locking up carbon, including the living wood, roots, leaves, deadwood, surrounding soils and its associated vegetation.

It will create a green legacy of its own, with every tree planted bringing benefits for people, wildlife and climate, now and for the future.

The Queen and The Prince of Wales planted the first Jubilee tree, a Verdun Oak, in the grounds of Windsor Castle earlier this year. Verdun Oaks were first planted in the UK as memorials following World War I. The acorns were collected at the battlefield of Verdun and grown into young trees. The Prince of Wales describes tree planting as a “statement of hope and faith in the future”.

The Queen has been planting trees since she acceded to the throne in 1952. During her reign she has planted more than 1,500 trees worldwide.

If you do not have space to plant your own tree contribute to a local ‘The Queen’s Green Canopy’ project to create a network of individual trees, avenues, copses and whole woodlands in honour of Our Queen.

We can also celebrate by using the national colours of the Union Jack Red, White and Blue for the summer flower schemes in our tubs hanging baskets and borders.

Unless you have already grown your plants from seed these are now ready to buy from the Garden Centre. May is when most risk of damaging early morning frost is very low so you can confidently plant with just one eye on early morning temperatures. If cold is forecast just cover with fleece the night before.

If you are reusing tubs and baskets from last year first empty completely, remove the drainage crocks, and moss and liners from baskets. Soak in a solution of one part household bleach and nine parts water for 10 minutes then thoroughly rinse in clean water and allow to dry otherwise things get very messy especially if you have a little helper.

If you are planting tubs whether plastic, stone, reconstituted materials or old galvanised baths make sure there are drainage holes in the base and a good layer of drainage crock, even broken up polystyrene packing, before adding any compost. This avoids the compost compacting.

The composts we recommend contain little or no peat (the ultimate carbon store) which has been replaced by coir and wood fibre substitutes both waste products.

Westland New Horizon which is completely peat free claims to now produce better root growth than most other composts. Terry and I are trialling it this year so I will report our findings at a later date.

Meanwhile you can always rely on Jacks Magic.

BEDFORDSHIRE BULLETIN

TEL: 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

The same composts can be used for planting hanging baskets. These can be lined with moss and synthetic moss type products but these should be replaced every year to avoid any carry over of pests and disease from a previous season. It is a good idea to include water retaining crystals and slow release feed after a couple of handfuls

of compost have been added.

So which plants shall we select?

Here are just a few possible combinations.

If you have lots of tubs or hanging baskets its effective to choose a variety like Petunias which come in so many colours and plant a single colour per tub so one Red one

w

White One Blue. Petunias are available as upright or trailing plants with single or double flowers which are often highly perfumed and like sunny patios.

Verbena is more discreet and also available as upright and trailing vari-

MAY 2022 —

eties in red white and blue.

Other schemes for sunny aspects can include Red Geraniums, Senecio with silvery white foliage and White or Blue Lobelia all of which can be upright and trailing. If you are planting a shady place substitute Red Fuchsias for Geraniums and Impatien White Beacon for Senecio.

Sweet Pea Royal Mixed is a mix of Sweet Peas seeds in red white blue and royal purple. Plant directly into a large pot with an obelisk to support these highly perfumed much loved climbing cottage garden plants.

The Platinum Jubilee Rose has large double vibrant pink flowers with an incredibly strong sweet fragrance that will linger in the breeze.. This compact shrub variety is ideal for beds and borders or even grown as low hedging.

It is also good in large tubs especially on terraces and porches where the fabulous scent can be admired by everyone. We must find a place to plant this rose.

17

TIME TO PLANT HANGING BASKETS 6 HANGING BASKET PLANTS

£8

www.miltonernestgardencentre.co.uk

MILT ON ERNEST GARDEN CENTRE Tel: 01234 823033

Radwell Road (just off the A6) Milton Ernest MK44 1SH

THE FISH SHACK &P The one stop shop for SHIRES FARMSHOP your next garden room at Milton Ernest Garden Centre

NOW OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Fresh Grimsby fish supplied daily, comprehensive range of fish to suit all tastes.

And now fresh fruit and vegetables, bread and meat from the Shires Farmshop Why not phone your order through or come and see us at Milton Ernest Garden Centre and pick our brains – we are here to help.

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY

To order call: 07563 581483 docklandsfish@gmail.com @docklandsgrimsbyfish

GBS

GARDEN BUILDING SERVICES LIMITED

• Sheds • Greenhouses • Summerhouses • Home offices • Workshops • Installation • Base laying service • Building disposal • Free site visits

Milton Ernest Garden Centre Radwell Road, Milton Ernest MK441SH

01234 851081 info@gardenbuildingservices.co.uk www.gardenbuildingservices.co.uk

18

— MAY 2022

TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

music Danni is headlining at the Stables Local award nominated singer songwriter Danni Nicholls can finally hit the road for her thrice rescheduled Hear Your Voice Tour.

On May 14, she and her stellar band will be appearing in the Jim Marshall auditorium at the beloved Stables, Milton Keynes.

Danni says: “I grew up visiting this amazing venue to hear world class music and was inspired by that experience to follow the calling of a life in music. I still pinch myself that I get to sing on that big ole stage. It’s gonna be a night to remember.”

Performing songs from across her catalogue which span the ‘Americana’ genre, there are songs to make you move, smile and weep, all pulled together with the strong, soulful, character of Danni’s remarkable voice.

Danni’s vibrant, spell binding performances are guaranteed to melt your heart into the soles of your

boots. Her passionate delivery, captivating vocals and charmingly engaging between-song banter will compel you to fall under her spell.

“I absolutely love the elegance and beauty of her music” Bob Harris, BBC Radio 2 “Smokey soul, folk-pop and heart-wrenching altcountry, all in a rich voice” Q Magazine “Sumptuous” UNCUT “An artist full of soul and wisdom” Maverick Music Magazine Special guest Charlotte Carpenter will open the show armed with her effortless cool and electric guitar.

Acclaimed by Best Fit, NME, Clash, Classic Rock as well as BBC Introducing, 2 & 6 Music, Charlotte has brought herself to the forefront of alternative singer/songwriters.

Tickets: www.danninicholls.com/shows

Fake Music Festival is back

by Tony Hendrix

MID BD BEDS BULLETIN

For many the thought of seeing live rock performances from legendary acts like Oasis, Queen, Guns n Roses and other iconic 90s rock bands in Bedfordshire and under one roof would be unheard of and branded impossible.

Well look no further Bedford Fake Festivals is a tribute-based music event which comes to Bedford on Saturday, June 18, 2022, these promoter’s will be bringing to town an amazing selection of the world’s best Tribute Bands.

Six amazing ‘Tribute bands’ will take to the stage at various times throughout the day at Bedford Park.

I have had the pleasure in listening to two of these tribute bands, if you closed your eyes you would believe you were listen to the original artists.

They look, sound and move like the real rock-stars you really have to see them to believe it!

The artists lined up for appearances in the Park in the order of scheduled stage appearances are: The Jam’d at 12.45pm, The Stereotonics at 2.30pm, Blondied at 4.15 pm, P!nk at 6.00pm, Guns 2 Roses at 7.45pm and finally Oasish at 9.45pm.

These festivals are backed by a very good safety record, secure, accessible and friendly, with an environment that caters for all ages.

The bands will perform in a giant

marquee ensuring a warm, lively, in door atmosphere.

There will also be a large well stocked licensed bar inside the marquee, drink tokens will be available from a token desk near the bar where you can exchange tokens at the bar for one bar (alcoholic) drink or two soft drinks, food traders will also be on site providing a range of food.

Weather permitting there will be a variety of of stalls, children’s rides/inflatables and face painting.

This live music event is just one in many credible festivals to be put on in Bedford Park and as always demands your support, tickets are available from fake tickets.co.uk Now here’s a date for the diary if you’re a soul music lover.

In my opinion one of the best soul artists to grace the UK Kenny Thomas will be making an appearance in Wyboston on Saturday, June 4, at The Ride Centre Wyboston Lakes.

Kenny will be joined on the night by ex American Drifters singer Randy Corwood who will be belting out some classic soull gems too.

This will be a phenomenal show not to be missed. Kenny will undoubtedly be rocking the venue with many of his top 20 hits, Outstanding, The Best of You, Thinking about your love to name a few alongside some of his more recent attributes.

Tickets for this event will cost £27.95, the show starts at 7pm till 11.30pm, tickets to this event are available from Ticket master.

MAY 2022 —

TEL: 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

comedy

Castle Comedy has two brilliant shows in May

19

A career that makes a

difference

Lisa worked in retail over Christmas, she once had a role as a barista and spent some time as a nanny. All of that experience has led her to a rewarding role she feels comfortable with and thoroughly enjoys.

Join our team Call 01234 868820 or visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/bedford Each Home Instead franchise is independently owned and operated. Copyright © Home Instead® 2021.

Thursday, May 12, The Gordon Arms, Bedford Castle Comedy is back at the Gordon Arms Ent Shed. The show will be a classic mixed bill of TV names and rising stars in an intimate environment. There is also an exclusive Pre-Show meal offer so you can enjoy a delicious dinner beforehand.

AHIR SHAH – Double Edinburgh Comedy Award ‘Best Show’ nominee Ahir Shah is one of the fastest-rising comedians of his generation and is known for his sharp, intellectual brand of standup featuring a blend of philosophical inquiry, political vigour, and sweet gags.

Ahir is a regular on television and radio and has performed stand-up on Live At The Apollo, The Now Show and Stand Up Central. Outside of stand up, Ahir has been seen on shows including Have I Got News For You, Frankie Boyle’s New World Order, Mock the Week, The Mash Report/Late Night Mash, Guessable, Rob Beckett’s Undeniable and Catastrophe.

HHHHH “Intricately crafted, profoundly moving, howlingly funny” – The Daily Telegraph EDD HEDDGES – is taking the comedy scene by storm after winning the prestigious So You Think You’re Funny Competition in 2013. He was invited to perform at the Adelaide Fringe in 2018 as part

of their UK All Star show. He is young, funny and set to be a major star!

‘Edd Hedges is a joy to watch.’

– The Scotsman Wednesday, May 25, The Crooked Crow Bar, Leighton Buzzard A brilliant independent music and event venue hosts a classic mixed bill of comedy!

ANDREW BIRD – (below) is a top headline act up and down the UK as well as performing around the world from Dublin to Doha. He has just appeared on Sky 1’s The Russell Howard Hour performing a brilliant routine. He has supported Rhod Gilbert, Rob Bryden and Michael McIntyre on tour.

“Birdie supported me on my arena tour and made me laugh every night. Truly an excellent comedian” – Michael McIntyre MAD RON – The Third Hardest Man in Uxbridge, is a comedy creation of Steve Lee, first appearing on the comedy circuit back in December 2015. Since then Mad Ron has gone on to win multiple awards… were threats made? Who can say!

All shows feature full support from top UK comedians and Paul Revill will host the shows!

Doors 7pm, shows start 8pm, show finish 10.45pm To book www.castlecomedy.co.uk

“…competitive prices and friendly advice” ● ● ● ● ●

Timber & Building Materials Kitchen & Bathroom Showroom Landscaping & Paving Displays Fixing & Tool Supplies Window & Door centre

Opening Times

w

Monday–Friday Saturday

01767 312800

7.30am–5.00pm 8.00am–12.00pm

sales@henlowbuidlingsupplies.co.uk www.henlowbuildingsupplies.co.uk 3a Pegasus Drive, Stratton Business Park, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire SG18 8QA

POINTS MAKE POUNDS EARN DOUBLE LOYALTY POINTS WHEN YOU BUY ANY

GARDEN FURNITURE WITH OUR VALUE PLUS CARD MID BEDS BULLETIN

Tel: 01234 823033

MILTON ERNEST GARDEN CENTRE Radwell Road (just off the A6) Milton Ernest MK44 1SH

20 —

MAY 2022

TEL: 07894 935952 EDITORIAL: editorial@rosettapublishing.com

sport

Roller coaster of a season

FOOTBALL – WADERS ROUNDUP BY MIKE DRAXLER

BIGGLESWADE TOWN .........1 STOURBRIDGE .......................3

Saturday March 26 In our current position three points would have been great, but Stourbridge have always been the team we would love to beat, which has in my memory never happened.

The match for the first 12 minutes never got going with injuries on both sides that needed attention. On 13 after a save from Josh Hill, the corner came in and Lathaniel Rowe-Turner waiting at the back stick headed home.

Biggleswade picked up the pace with Harry Lodovica gaining ground on his markers.

On 23 Lodovica it was who put the cross into the area for the excellent Liam Smyth to steal in and level the score. More injuries made the rest of the half a disjointed affair, with possibly the physical play of Stourbridge edging the possession.

After the break, Stourbridge pressed and prevented the Waders flowing style from gaining momentum and opportunities.

On 54 a loose ball went to Darryl Knights who hooked the ball back past the diving Josh Hill. Despite efforts from Robbie Parker and Enoch Andoh the score remained the same.

On 74 Knights it was again who lobbed the advancing Hill to make the score 1-3. Lodovica and Smyth endeavoured but not a Wader day.

PETERBORO’ SPORTS.......3 BIGGLESWADE TOWN......0 Saturday April 9 Always going to be a difficult task playing second in the league Peterborough Sports who by their standards had a poor first 45.

Harry Lodovica tormented the home defence with his tricky footwork but the only real opening was for Dean Parrott to fire over from the edge of the box.

The only chance from the home side which looked a certain goal before Kane Farrell headed the ball away. At half time 0-0 looking good for the Waders but needed to up the attack to get anything from this game.

Out for the second period and Peterborough changed tactics harnessing Lodovica, who was unable to break free from his markers.

The surprise being that it took till 65 in before Ryan Fryatt headed home from a free kick wide on the right. Five onwards, a solo run from Dion Sembie Ferris saw his power shot squeeze between keeper and post.

Another 10 and Dan Jarvis picked up a loose ball which should have been cleared, with a shot between bar and post. At 30 it was all over.

BIGGLESWADE TOWN......2 COALVILLE TOWN ............2 Tuesday April 12 The Waders left it late last night with a stirring effort to give the home side a much-needed point and destiny still in our own hands.

The match started well enough with the Waders showing some fine attacking movements.

Bringing out a classy save from visiting keeper Tiernan Brooks the resulting corner saw the Waders hit the bar and post in a many seconds as it took to write this. But when your luck is ugly and facing the incoming tide of relegation, you can’t expect too many favours from lady luck.

The play on occasions was inspired with Coalville just playing the “bit” part not troubling Josh Hill unduly. At the turnaround it was looking good at 0-0 with the huge separation in league position not apparent.

Out for the second period, disaster as the Waders did not defend the back post for Thomas McGlinchey to steal in and give the visitors the lead on 46.

Biggleswade did not respond and appeared content to defend and let Coalville come on to them.

And come on they did as Timothy Berridge scored again on 77 after a cross was not cut out. Roll your sleeves up time boys, and so Biggleswade did as they pressed forward.

Max Granville caught the Coalville defence napping as his shot hit the back of the net on 80.

Now inspired and believing, the Waders through Lodovica, Smyth and Andoh went searching for that one opening.

As the clock ticked down and four minutes over played, Harry Lodovica bundled the ball over the line to the elation of the home

Good start to Tuck’s second GT3 season

fans and dismay in the Coalville ranks.

Overall, a fair result over the 90 minutes and a lifeline but it won’t be easy.

BIGGLESWADE TOWN......0 HEDNESFORD......................2 Saturday April 16 This was definitely a ‘must win’ game because we are now relying on other results.

The Waders with a seriously depleted squad due to injuries and players not available did not get to the task and two first half goals by the visitors, the first a penalty on 29 minutes had to be taken twice due to Josh Hill moving before the ball was struck.

The original kick hit the post.

Reece Flanagan made no mistake with the re-take. Leroy Lita added to the home team’s misery on 36 when the home defence did not cut out a cross and Lita had no difficulty scoring.

ROYSTON TOWN ................3 BIGGLESWADE TOWN......0 Monday April 18

Royston were ahead inside 10 minutes with a header from Daniel Newton at the back stick. Devonte Aransibia doubled the lead on 34 with another header and Brandon Adams completed the first half misery with yet another header on 40. At half time and a huge deficit it looked like the game was all over.

Biggleswade put their backs into the game after the break, with Liam Smyth coming on gave the game a more competitive feel.

THE first race of the Nurburgring Langstrecken Serie has already thrown up plenty of challenges during the three years BRDC SuperStar GT driver, Ben Tuck has been racing there, with one race delayed by fog, one moved to later in the year due to Covid restrictions and last year cancelled entirely. This time around Bem starts with a new car and new crew.

In another packed year, Ben will again tackle the eight race Nurburging Langstrecken Serie (NLS) with Walkenhorst Motorsport, along with the fearsome 24 Hours of Nurburgring, one of the world’s toughest endurance races, and is relishing the challenge.

“It’s really great to have the consistency of remaining with Walkenhorst for another year.

We’ve built up a great relationship over the last few seasons and last year we all worked hard together and showed that we were a strong team. This year we can build even more on that in the new BMW M4 GT3” he said before the race.

Ben’s crew are BMW ex-works driver, Jörg Müller and experienced Walkenhorst GT3 driver Mario Von Bohlen. The trio are competing in the distinctive grey and red Alpecin livery of the #35 Walkenhorst BMW M4 GT3.

Ultimately, the final result of round 1 masked the capability Ben and his team see in the car. With a

difficult qualifying session and pace still to be unlocked, GT veteran team Walkenhorst Motorsport are optimistic of future success.

The first qualifying session got underway in a frenzy of activity with cars fighting to get out on track to take advantage of the early good conditions. The result was that Ben was among a gaggle of cars looking to make the best of the fresh tyres and low fuel and he endured a frustrating few laps trying to find some free space the stretch the legs of his new BMW M4 GT3, eventually posting a lap time that was short of the expected capabilities. Despite this, it was the fastest time for the car as his crew mates did not improve on it and the crew of the #35 BMW claimed an out of position grid slot at P18.

The team elected to start the race with Ben’s highly experienced teammate, ex-BMW works driver Jörg Müller, with Ben to take over the middle stint and Mario von Bohlen as the third driver to finish.

As planned, Tuck took over the car six laps into the race from 12th position around two minutes behind the leaders. After a solid eight lap stint, Ben recovered the car to the pits halfway through the race in 6th position a little over 30 seconds behind the leaders, to hand over to their third driver for the remainder of the race, who brought the car home in 13th position.

PROBLEM DRIVEWAY? SPRING We’ve got SALE % it covered 20OFF

Call: 01767 360076 FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION

QUOTE BULLETIN

Tel: 01767 360076 or 0800 781 6343 Mob: 07428 511932

LC Driveway Solutions Ltd Long Lake Meadow, High Road, Seddington, Sandy SG19 1NU

www.lcdrivewaysolutions.co.uk

MID BEDS BULLETIN

• Resin Bonded • Block paving • Patio slabs • Tarmacadam • Fencing • Turfing • Brickwork • Graveling • Landscaping and much more