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FREE AMPTHILL•FLITWICK•WESTONING•HARLINGTON•TODDINGTON NOVEMBER 2017
Ampthill Scout’s hut is in need of major refurbishment – can you help?
LOCAL NEWS magazine
2 — MID BEDS BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2017
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AMPTHILL GETS SWITCHED ON – SUNDAY NOVEMBER 19
AMPTHILL will be buzzing on Sunday November 19th with many attractions on the Market Square and in the town centre car park. From early afternoon everyone can enjoy the fun fair, music, refreshments, stalls, a special Lights raffle featuring a major prize kindly donated by The White Hart Hotel, Ampthill, and visits to see Father Christmas before the grand switch-on at 4.45pm.
Who will press the plunger to light up the town? Pupils attending Russell Lower School, The Firs Lower School and two pre-schools will receive entry forms and details about their return along with the request for a £1 donation. All completed forms will then be put in a raffle drum and the winner will be notified before Switch-on Sunday. Entertainment and the big count-
down will be hosted by the ever popular Maurice Kachuk as Dame Hettie Quette accompanied by special guests Betty Bluebird and May Blossom together with the cast of Ampthill’s pantomime ‘Puss in Boots’. McColls newsagents and convenience store in Church Street will be hosting a fun-day and Bonfire in Woburn Street will be raising funds for Keech Hospice Care on Switch-on Sunday.
New Christmas lights for Ampthill
This year is the last time you will see the multicoloured lights - the ones that zig-zag across the street. Phase 1 (2017) is the introductory phase when new white icicle lights will be introduced to the Market square shops and the Christmas tree will also have new matching lights. The old, multi-coloured zig-zag lights will also be above the streets as usual. so a mix of old and new this year. Both the market square shop owners and
Ampthill Business Chamber have massively contributed to phase 1 together with The Friends Of Ampthill’s Christmas Lights, and all are convinced that when the scheme is completed Ampthill will look stunning and magical at Christmas. Phase 2: Christmas 2018 – will involve all shops/businesses on both sides of Bedford street up to Waitrose, Church street up to The Cottage Bakery, and Dunstable street up
to Bedroom Acoustics. The last phase for Christmas 2019 will see the transformation completed when all shops/businesses on both sides of Woburn street up to the Queens head are fitted with icicle lights. Both The Friends Of Ampthill’s Christmas Lights and Ampthill Business Chamber are very happy with this important joint venture and look forward to again working closely together.
Helen Driver (Ampthill Business Chamber) and Richard Holden (The Friends Of Ampthill’s Christmas Lights) who have spearheaded the new lights initiative.
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The Bulletin series are independent magazines with no affiliation to any other organisation. ©2017 Rosetta Publishing Ltd. 30 Radwell Road, Milton Ernest MK44 1sh. Tel: 07894 935952 or 07724 905406. Email: editorial@rosettapublishing.com or advertising@rosettapublishing.com Printed by: Mortons Print Limited. Newspaper house, Morton Way, Boston Road, horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 6JR
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New 2017 Friends of Ampthill’s Christmas Lights Quiz champions crowned
FOuRTEEN teams of four quizzers packed The Cross Keys, Pulloxhill on Friday October 6, in an attempt to emerge as the 2017 champions.
With rounds as diverse as, history, Russia, anagrams of irish counties, and pot luck it was surprising that just two points separated the top three teams at half time. Following an outstanding choice of freshly prepared hot suppers, the questions continued and the scores totted up. Team Rainbow Warriors: comprising Nicola Ryan-Raine,Bruce Masters, Colin Raine and Paul Lovett, topped the list scoring 71 points and included four perfect rounds, but the pack were not far behind with two teams each scoring 65 points. No team scored below 46 points. Question master was Philip hines, scorer sandy hines, and other duties were covered by Carolyn Chappell, Rose holden and John Bingham. The raffle had some super
prizes and was very well supported. Debbie Bushman chose the bottle of Prosecco and box of Belgian chocolates kindly donated by Waitrose, Ampthill, Rachael Garman won the £20 voucher to spend at Tesco, Flitwick, while Jason Boyle (£20) and Valerie Bates (£10) received the moneyoff vouchers given by The White hart, Ampthill. At the end of a very enjoyable evening it was announced that the splendid amount of £460-78 had been raised before a most generous quizzer added another £50 boosting the total to an impressive £510-78. Our next quiz will be held in the spring of 2018 and will be announced in The Bulletin. Richard Holden – Fundraiser for The Friends Of Ampthill’s Christmas Lights.
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CAN YOU HELP? AMPTHILL Scout Hut needs a £300k refurbishment and if enough money is not raised, there are fears it will have to close down. The hut on Station Road in Ampthill was first built in 1970 and since then, hundreds of children have enjoyed attending scouts and Girl Guide groups at it. But the hut is now in desperate need of repair. A local surveyor has estimated it will cost £300k for a major refurb and additional space to be added. Together, the scouting volunteers in Ampthill have already raised £16,000 with a series of fund raising events as well as kind help from the Ampthill Flexi Rotary, Ampthill Festival and Ampthill Fireworks. Last month, Group Scout Leader, Karen Blomfield, 43, decided to go one step further and cut out alcohol for the month of October to raise money. “I would be so touched if everyone in Ampthill can get behind this project,” says Karen. “What a great life experience Scouting and Girl Guiding is.” If you would like to donate to the refurb, please go to: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/karen-blomfieldampthillscouts or you can get in touch at groupscoutleader@ampthillscouts.org
Karen with her two children, Tom and Elizabeth.
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tree grower pines for Downing Street £1.4m worth AChristmas BEDFORDshiRE Christmas five categories: pine, fir, spruce, tree grower hoped to reap the top container growth and wreaths. of bikes prize in a national tree competition Each finalist could submit two of last month but unfortunately was any one species per category and recovered so pipped to the post. all trees entered must be 1.4m to Badger hill Christmas Tree 2.2m in height. The judges scored far in 2017 Farm, along with other members the trees on their foliage, colour,
AS THE traditional motor bike riding season comes to an end, the team behind motorcycle tracking device, BikeTrac, has reported their busiest summer of recoveries since inception, with over 240 machines stolen year to date and over 55 machines recovered in the summer period alone*.
Recovering on average four BikeTrac equipped machines per week during the summer, the team has been kept busy, maintaining an impressive recovery rate of over 90% thanks to the systems technology and the firm’s dedicated 24/7 Secure Operating Centre.
of the British Christmas Tree Growers Association (BCTGA) took part in the Annual BCTGA Tree Competition at Beacon hill Farm, Woolley Edge Wakefield in October. Competing for the title of Champion Christmas Tree Grower 2017, Badger hill Christmas Tree Farm of Maulden, submitted their best trees for judging. The grower who claims the title of Champion Christmas Tree Grower will have the honour of delivering a real tree to stand outside 10 Downing street in London this December. The competition is divided into
shape and marketability to determine the overall winner. in addition, the winner of the Champion Wreath accolade will see their decorated wreath take up prime position on the iconic black door at Number 10 throughout the festive season. The BCTGA was established in 1979 to provide a quality standard for Christmas tree growers in the uK and champions the purchase of real sustainable Christmas trees. For more information about the BCTGA, visit www.bctga.co.uk or Tel: 01473 785100. Mike Humphries with his entry.
Double 50th year celebrations
ON Monday 2nd October 1967 the 12th Dunstable Brownie unit was opened at the Dunstable Methodist Church by the then 17 year old Leader Anthea York. On Monday 2nd October 2017, the Brownies celebrated their semicentennial year by welcoming Anthea back to her unit, now at the Dunstable salvation Army, half a century after she first “While our statistics are opened it. unique to what we sell and it was also a celebration for protect, we’ve seen a trend current unit leader Janet Rhodes moving slightly towards who was also celebrating her smaller machines this sumsemicentennial year within Guiding and has run the 12th mer. We’ve recovered more Dunstable Brownies for 20 years. bikes, but in actual fact the The 2017 Brownies celebrated total value of bikes recovby going back in time and ered has dropped, mainly taking part in lots of fun activities down to us recovering smallthat girls their age would er, less valuable machines have taken part in when the unit first opened in 1967. too now.” Anthea said: “it was wonderful to return to my original unit after so many years and see it thriving. it is also great to see that the core basics of Guiding are still here Fully computerised data despatch system today and have simply been adapt4-8 seater – Contracts welcome ed to fit into our modern lives.” Janet said: “it was amazing to meet Anthea and welcome her BikeTrac’s Bill Taylor explained, “Naturally summer is our busiest period because more bikes are on the road, but what this summer showed us is that bike theft is rife and thieves are starting to target a wider range of machines.
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back to the unit. The girls were very excited to meet her and it was fantastic that she was able to attend.’ Janet added, ‘i am in no doubt that the 12th Dunstable Brownies will still be here in another 50 years time and will continue to offer girls amazing experiences and a chance to be themselves!”
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Cartridge Depot are finalists at the National Business Awards
As winners at their local Bedfordshire sME Business Awards 2017 in the Green Award, Cartridge Depot have now made it through to the sME National Business Awards 2017 in the Green Award category alongside other national businesses s which have successfully reached the finals.
Cartridge Depot have worked hard in trying to stop as many cartridges from going into landfill as possible, and to date have stopped over 22400 cartridges going into landfill and being recycled. Cartridge Depot are already a multi award winning company which began trading in 2012 and have gone from strength to strength trading from there store in Bedford Town Centre. Cartridge Depot is a local independently family run business specialising in suppling original, compatible and remanufactured printer cartridges to commercial and domestic customers. They aim to help anyone looking to save money on their printer running costs. They urge anyone interested in recycling their empty printer cartridges to contact them on 01234 910908 or pop into their shop based at 30 st. Loyes street, Bedford MK40 1EP. Business Partner Guy Ciampa says: ‘Reaching the finals of a local awards ceremony is amazing in its self, but to be able to be part of a national final is beyond belief, we would have never thought that we would be able to compete against the big companies out there. Fingers crossed we may be able to get another award, not just for us but for Bedford too!’ Business Partner Vincenza Ciampa says: “We are so proud and thankful! We would like to thank everyone that has supported us since we began trading, as without them we would not be here! Our work along with our customers and the local community is what has made all this possible so we all deserve a well done!”
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Nationwide tour
A DREAM role playing Donkey in shrek in a nationwide touring musical has been won by Bedford actor and singer Marcus Ayton. Marcus, 28, will be in theatres f r o m December 14th 2017, with, for those who don’t know the story, a giant puppet dragon as his love interest. “it really is my dream role since seeing it on stage i always wanted this great part,” said Marcus who studied performing arts at Bedford College (2006- 2008) before going on to the university of Central Lancashire (uclan) and the London school of Musical Theatre.
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Flitwick Beavers and Cubs are flying!
BEAVER scouts (boys and girls aged 6 to 8) and Cub scouts (8 to 10 ½) from Flitwick have been treated to a flying display from Birds of Prey from the English school of Falconry. An Eagle, Kestrel and Owl flew around in their scout hQ. some of the children were asked to become “trees” whilst the birds flew just above their heads. They were all given the opportunity to get very close to the birds. Most took the opportunity to have one of the birds perch on their arm. Finlay hannam aged 9 said: “i didn’t think the Eagle would be that heavy!” some of the Cubs and scouts (boys and girls aged 10 ½ to 14) spent a day experiencing five different water activities. hosted by 1st Luton sea scouts, the children tried canoeing, kayaking, rafting, rowing and sailing at Luton hoo. some of the adults couldn’t resist the opportunity to try out some of the activities either. The Beavers have spent an The Cubs have recently been and apple crumble which they evening on a bouldering wall and also trying to get round an adventure working towards their Chef badge. then ate. They have also made They made spaghetti bolognaise cardboard boats and were rather trail in the quickest possible time.
surprised when they all floated. scouts have been working towards their Digital Citizen badge and have been learning survival skills. After half term they will be making tin-top pancakes and then using some more conventional methods for their cooking badge. Jonathan smith, lead volunteer for the Group said: “scouting provides great opportunities not only for young people but for adults as well. We are currently in the process of looking for some adults to help out with our scouts that meet on a Friday. All training for the role is provided and you can commit as much or as little time as you feel you can give to the scouts. We can guarantee you an enormous amount of fun and you will get the opportunity to learn and/or develop skills as well as helping young people learn life skills. if you would be interested, or know someone who might be interested in getting involved, please get in contact with us.” For further information about Flitwick scout Group, please visit www.flitwickscoutgroup.org.uk
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Dolphin’s Club Championships
ThE Flitwick Dolphins Club Championships this year saw another hugely successful event held by our club. Beginning on the 8th september with the Female 400m individual Medley and Male 1500m Freestyle, it became clear that all of the swimmers’ training leading up to the Championships had paid off. Most exciting howev-
er, are always the main weekend sessions held at Flitwick Leisure Centre. This year, the weekend sessions were held on the 16th-17th september, and 30th september 1st October. smiles were seen on everyone’s faces as the 100m freestyle signalled the start of the weekend sessions. The most pleas-
Well done Charlotte!
ChARLOTTE Joyce had two amazing weekends of swimming taking part in two very different events. The first event took place on 10th of september and was the Fritton Lake Big swim open water . First up was the 5k in a time of 1.28.18 . The second swim was a 3k which Charlotte completed in 55.29. The final swim in this triple swim event was the 1500m in a time of 28.32. This is the first time Charlotte has raced these distances with all different ages both male and female . Charlotte completed the triple swim in a time of 2.52.14 coming eighth out of 14 swimmers . This is an amazing achievement by Charlotte and the pictures show the Medals that she deservedly won. The second weekend of the 30.9.17 and 1.10.17 was the Lowestoft and Oulton Broad open meet . Charlotte swam in five different events and achieved gold in the 50 backstroke, silver for the 50
freestyle , in the 50 Breaststoke she won silver as was the case with the 50 fly with bronze for the 100 freestyle. Well done to Charlotte for yet another impressive medal haul .
ing aspect of the whole event, is certainly seeing all of the squads interacting and socialising together on poolside. This is an atmosphere that really is central to the overall positivity of The Dolphins’ Championships each year. Everyone swam incredibly well over all of the events, and a huge congratulations must go to everyone who achieved a new Personal Best, or any medals! Our Championships are a great opportunity to improve times, and therefore hopefully qualify for more of the various open meets throughout the year. Flitwick Dolphins swimmers certainly demonstrated this during the Championships, due to swimmers across all of the squads consistently improving their times. Finally, on behalf of everyone at the club: a huge well done to anyone who swam competitively for the first time at this year’s Club Championships. Also, thank you to all of the technical and non-technical volunteers who gave up their time to ensure that the Club Championships could go ahead smoothly. Flitwick Dolphins Club Championships 2017 was yet again an event enjoyed by all, and everyone at the club will certainly be very much looking forward to next year’s. in January 2018 the club will have our presentation evening where awards will be handed out to swimmers following their achievements at club champs. James Handler Press Officer & Club Captain
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What are the big issues in Bedfordshire?
A NEW ‘Vital signs’ report commissioned by the Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation (BLCF) has shown the key priorities for our communities revolve around safety, housing and deprivation. The inaugural report for the county shines a light on community need with residents articulating a range of issues which they feel are challenging the well-being of their area. The report focuses attention on what needs to be done and how it can be achieved. Findings include the fact that 84% of residents felt that there wasn’t enough affordable housing in Bedfordshire and one in four children in Luton live in poverty. More encouragingly, 85% of people surveyed would recommend moving to Bedfordshire if a friend was considering it. The report recognises and celebrates the groups and activities already in operation which are responding to the demonstrable local need. however, greater funding is required to continue this valuable work and to support organisations. Fozia irfan, Chief Executive of BLCF, comments: “The findings of the Vital signs report provide pause for thought and offer a clear indication of the issues our community is facing. it shines a light on the concerns and fears that require attention and provides an impetus for action. While wonderful work by a host of community organisations is underway, there is a tremendous need in our area which we have only seen grow in recent years. Therefore, we want to engage the wider community – individuals and businesses - to work with us and be a part of the solution that answers the call in today’s Vital signs report. Community philanthropy is important and can change our communities for the better.” Nick hurd MP, Minister for Civil society, said: “Vital signs encourages giving and helps to ensure that donations target the most pressing issues a community is facing. i wish community foundations every success.” BLCF is a grant making charity which has distributed over £6.2 million since it began in 2001, working with over 600 donors and supporting over 18,000 groups.
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St John Organ Donor award ceremony
ON Monday 9 October, hM The Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, helen Nellis, attended the Order of st John Organ Donor Award Ceremony which was held by kind permission of the Duke and Duchess of Bedford at The sculpture Gallery, Woburn. The ceremony was organised by Anthony Duggan OBE, the County Priory Group Chairman of st John Bedfordshire in conjunction with the Nhs. The awards ceremony was the fourth of its kind held in Bedfordshire and the award is given to the families of deceased organ donors to recognise their generosity in giving others a chance of life and to inspire other families who are facing this difficult decision to donate their loved ones organs.
Families of organ donors were presented with badges and certificates and thanked by the LordLieutenant for the gift of life that they had given by carrying out their loved ones final wishes. Also supporting this ceremony was Professor Gurch Randhawa DL, who delivered a speech on his international research in organ donation. Professor Randhawa has been working in several countries across Europe, and also supporting countries such as india and Qatar to make the topic of organ donation more visible. Professor Randhawa has enabled many Governments to provide a focus on the recognition of the difference that organ donation makes to other people’s lives. speaking after the Donor Awards Ceremony, the LordLieutenant said, “it is an honour to recognise the life-saving actions made by organ donors.” Professor Randhawa said “it is enormously humbling to attend such an event where we thank people who have found the strength to think beyond themselves, and say ‘yes’ to organ donation”. Anthony Duggan said “The donors and their families throughout the country have carried out an inspirational act to help others to save lives”
RESEARCH
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£10,000 grant from sporting legend
A ChEQuE for £10,000 to support disabled sports was handed over at the Bedford international Athletic stadium from a legacy left by a sporting legend in Bedford.
Professor Margaret Whitehead, President of Bedford Physical Education Old students Association presented the money to Bedford and County Athletic Club to establish a new section for disabled people of all ages. The grant was awarded from the Eileen Alexander Legacy Fund and will be specifically used to purchase three racing wheelchairs and associated equipment. Receiving the cheque was 12year-old Varun Bandi from Flitwick. Varun has helped promote the annual Wheelchair Legacy Relay held at the Bedford international Athletic stadium. The sixth was held on sunday 8th October and raising further funds to add to the £30,000 already collected for the development of sport for young disabled people. The Push4it event attracted 25 teams, each tackling a 4 x 50 metre relay course, as well as nearly 20 individuals racing over one lap of the track (400 metres). At the end of the day which had witnessed some fast times, the overall winners were Kachow (Bedford Modern school) in a time of 1min 16 secs, with three teams finishing in the same time of 1min 21 secs were Biggleswade Air Cadets, teams 1 and 2 and hot Wheels (Bedford Modern school) The first family team to finish were Arriba (1 min. 26 secs.), the senior team, all over 65, were ivel Rotators in 1min. 52 secs, followed by sandy Paralytics, 2 mins 12 secs. Organised by Rotarians in the area, the event was supported by Alistair Burt MP for North East Bedfordshire, Nick Kier, Deputy Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, and invictus Games bronze medallist and captain of the British wheelchair basketball team, Craig
Winspear. Anybody requiring further information should contact howard Darbon, the initiator of the Wheelchair Legacy Relay at hdarbon@ntlworld.com.
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45th anniversary In September, Mid-Bedfordshire Flower Club (Home Counties) celebrated its 45th anniversary. An excellent demonstration by Anna Steven, entitled ‘Celebration’, was a fitting treat for the members and visitors from Bedford Floral Arts Society, and Clophill Flower Club. The photograph shows the Chairman, Mrs Pauline Manning, and the Committee around a cake designed for the occasion, which was cut by founder member, Mrs Alison Farrow. The club meets on the second Thursday of the month in Flitwick Village Hall. Visitors are welcome, for more details, please see www.midbedsflowerclub.org.uk
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Four local charities share a £50k donation
FOuR Bedfordshire based charities were the lucky recipients of £50,000, which was part of a ‘£3m Give Away’ by English Freemasons to celebrate their 300th Birthday. The Bedfordshire and Northants Multiple sclerosis Therapy Centre, received £25,000. Dr Kay Taylor (Chair of the Trustees) told us: “On behalf of all of us who use the Centre i would like to thank Bedfordshire Freemasons for their generous support. We will use this incredible donation to upgrade our hydrotherapy pool that enables exercise and increased mobility to many of our clients.” The Elisabeth Curtis Riding Centre for the Disabled received £15,000. Victoria Liston (Chair of the charity) told us: “We will use the £15,000 to buy anther two ponies, additional tack, renew/repair the fencing around our paddocks and some additional safety equipment. This generous donation from the Masons will help to keep the smiles on many young people who face difficult challenges.” stephen Murphy the search Manager at The Midshires search and Rescue Organisation, who received £6,000 told us: “We operate 24/7, 365 days a year, so we need to be prepared for all types of weather. The £6,000 given to us by Beds Freemasons will be used to purchase water safety clothing and equipment.” Paula Grayson (Chair of the Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity) told us: “The £4,000 we received from the Freemasons, will help fund our ‘Bridge Project’. This project helps people in Luton who have had support or treatment for alcohol and/or drug use to integrate back into society”. The Charity within Bedfordshire that received the most votes was the Bedfordshire and Northants Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre, who received £25,000. Dr Kay Taylor (Chair of the Trustees) told us “The Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Therapy Centre provides therapies and support for people living with MS. Our aim is to help people with MS to selfmanage their condition and live life as fully as possible. On behalf of all of us who use the Centre I would like to thank Bedfordshire Freemasons for their generous support. We will use this incredible donation to upgrade our hydrotherapy pool that enables exercise and increased mobility to many of our clients”.
Representatives from the four charities receiving their Donations at the Elisabeth Curtis Riding Centre for the Disabled.
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hM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, helen Nellis, recently appointed her cadets for 2017/2018 at a ceremony held at Bedford Modern school, Manton Lane, Bedford. The role of Lord-Lieutenant’s cadets is to support the LordLieutenant in carrying out her duties and their selection and appointment acknowledges their outstanding contribution to their cadet service and to the community. This year’s cadets are Fire Cadet Charlie Beresford (Bedfordshire Fire & Rescue service), Cadet Warrant Officer Lewis Jobbling (Cranfied Air Training Corps), Cadet sergeant Honor Marshall (Beds & herts Army Cadet Force), Police Cadet Natasha Newton (Bedfordshire Police Cadets), Leading Cadet Katharine Potter (Flitwick & Ampthill sea Cadets) and Cadet sergeant Adam Wu (Bedford Modern school Combined Cadet Force). The Lord-Lieutenant’s cadets are the finest of the many talented young people in the cadet forces within Bedfordshire. They are excellent leaders and a credit to
Photography: Keith Mayhew.
HM Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadets ready for service
HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Helen Nellis, and her Cadets for 2017/2018: (l-r) Cadet Sergeant Honor Marshall, Fire Cadet Charlie Beresford, Cadet Sergeant Adam Wu, HM Lord-Lieutenant Helen Nellis, Cadet Warrant Officer Lewis Jobbling, Police Cadet Natasha Newton and Leading Cadet Katharine Potter.
their organisations and to the ing the Lord-Lieutenant said, “i am know that they will all rise to the county. looking forward to working with occasion and will be great role speaking after the commission- these excellent young people. i models for their peers.”
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WASPI message for all women born in the 1950s
WOMEN Against state Pension inequality (WAsPi) is a national campaign aiming to get justice for women affected by the decision to raise the women’s state pension age from 60 to 66. These women, who were born in the 1950s, have had their retirement plans shattered because successive Governments failed to inform them of the rise in women’s state pension age in time, in order for them to make alternative plans for their retirement. Letters to individuals did not start going out until 2009 so women, who had expected to retire at 60, had little or no notice to prepare. Then, to add insult to injury, in 2011 the Government decided to speed up the changes, leaving many with a further 18 months to wait, so they can’t receive their state pension now until they are 66. The unfair way these changes have been implemented have left many thousands of women both angry and upset and many are now facing huge financial difficulties, often suffering ill health, as they wait to reach the age when they can properly retire. in Bedfordshire alone this has affected 48,000 women. in 2015, five women decided to fight back and so formed WAsPi to campaign against the way the changes have been brought in. WAsPi is NOT opposed to equalising state pension age with men and they are NOT calling for women’s state pension age to return to 60. What they are demanding is a fair transitional arrangement for women born in the 1950s and most affected by the changes to the pension law, by way of a ‘bridging state pension’ to cover the gap from 60 to when they reach state pension age, that is NOT means tested and with compensation for losses for those who have already reached their state pension age. There are now over 70,000 WAsPi women in over 140 branches united in fighting this injustice. here in Bedfordshire we are a newly formed branch and we are working to ensure that all women that are affected by these changes are aware of WAsPi and the work they are doing. We are also trying to ensure that all women know where they
can find out how these changes will impact on them personally, by requesting a ‘pension statement’ from the DWP. They can do this by either requesting form BR19 to complete and return by post, by going on-line and accessing www.dwp.gov.uk or calling The Pension service on 0345 3000 168.
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if you would like to find out more about Bedford WAsPi Group then email us on waspibedford@outlook.com Finally, WAsPi is asking everyone to urgently sign the WAsPi petition https:// petition.parliament.uk/petitions/200088 in order to trigger a debate in Parliament.
New opening hours for Central Bedfordshire Libraries now in operation
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 LiBRARiEs across Central Bedfordshire Council are getting set to change their opening hours. Following a consultation last year, the council has responded to residents’ views, and has realigned opening hours across its libraries.
Cllr ian Dalgarno, Executive Member for Community services at Central Bedfordshire Council, said: “Culture and the arts are one of the ways we can make Central Bedfordshire a great place to live and work. i’m pleased to say that our Library service is doing just that. Despite having to work with reduced funding, we are bucking
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the national trend by ensuring all of our libraries remain open, and some will have longer opening hours. “For example, all of the 12 libraries in Central Bedfordshire will now be conveniently open from 9-4 every saturday, which means that more people will be able to use them on the weekend. in an increasingly digital world, we see the role of libraries as community and cultural centers. Libraries are now places where individuals gather to explore, interact, and imagine. so, as well the traditional borrowing of
NOVEMBER 2017 MID BEDS BULLETIN — 17
books, we also arrange events at Area Libraries (Biggleswade, our libraries: last year 65,000 peoFlitwick, Houghton Regis, ple attended these, up from 58,000 Sandy, Shefford) in 2015.” Tuesday – Friday 9am – 6pm Central Bedfordshire Council saturday 9am – 4pm libraries are now placed into three Main Libraries (Dunstable and categories, with consistent openLeighton Buzzard) ing hours within each category, as Tuesday – Friday 9am – 6pm follows: saturday 9am – 4pm Community Libraries For more information on your (Ampthill, Barton, Potton, local library, go to: www. Stotfold and Toddington) centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/leisure Tuesday 9am-1pm /libraries/overview.aspx Wednesday 2pm – 6pm Thursday 9am – 1pm Friday 9am-1pm and 2pm – 6pm saturday 9am – 4pm
Fly tippers caught in the act by CCTV
TWO fly tippers have been fined over £2,600 after both were caught on Central Bedfordshire Council’s Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras. Both offenders were caught in separate incidents involving fly tipping at the now closed recycling area off of houghton Regis high street; despite there being two signs at the location stating fly tipping is an offence and that CCTV was in operation. Both offenders attended Luton Magistrates Court earlier this week and both pleaded guilty to fly-tipping. Michal Zareba, of 3 Alsop Close, houghton Regis, was caught fly tipping rubble, boxes and bags on Tuesday 2nd May 2017. he was fined £740, ordered to pay full prosecution costs of £1059.00 and a victim’s surcharge of £74, totalling nearly £1,900. On sunday 11th June 2017, Amy Parker of 36 union street, Dunstable and her vehicle passenger were caught throwing items, including a TV, from her car onto the floor. Parker was fined £723, ordered to pay £100 towards prosecution costs and £38 victim surcharge, totalling £861. Councillor Budge Wells, Executive Member for Corporate Resources, said: “These cases are a great result. They demonstrate the value of our investment in CCTV and how these cameras help reduce crime, nuisance and anti-social behaviour, and assist in securing arrests and prosecutions. “Our CCTV cameras assist with our zero-tolerance attitude toward fly-tipping in Central Bedfordshire. Our Environmental Protection, CCTV, Waste and Legal teams work relentlessly to ensure fly tippers are brought to justice.” incidents of fly-tipping should be reported to customer services on 0300 300 8302 or by email at customers@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
18 — MID BEDS BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2017
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What a summer it has been for our
ThE summer of 2017 marked a monumental time for the Flitwick Dolphins, and more importantly the selected swimmers who participated in swimming across the English Channel. The event has so far raised over £12,000 for charities selected by the swimmers, many of these charities being close to the swimmers’ hearts. The idea for a channel swim was thought of a considerable time ago. senior swimmer James McFarland recalls: “i remember Tyler (Watson) asking me if i would be part of a Channel Relay team back in June 2016, and i thought ‘Yes, i can do that’. i couldn’t imagine what may be involved, but i still thought that it would be a cool thing to do!” From that point onwards the idea began to grow into a reality, and once the Events & Fundraising Officer Michelle Watson got involved, the plan for a Channel swim began to take shape. Master swimmer Alistair shaw expands on how the club continued to show interest in the charity fundraising event, and how he became involved: “i was approached by (coach) Judy Thompson and Michelle Watson in November 2016 on a rainy Wednesday night training session to see whether i may be interested in taking part in the cross Channel swim. having only been a member of the club for 10 months at that stage and having never done any open water swimming, i was initially reluctant to commit to taking part.
After further consideration, i realised that i hadn’t challenged myself or taken part in any significant Charity Challenge since completing the Great North Run in 2011. i felt it would be a great opportunity to take part in, a great team event and allow me to raise more money for a charity held very close to my heart, Great Ormond street Children’s hospital.” Great Ormond street hospital is only one of the charities that the Channel swim supported. The other charities selected by the swimmers are: Guide Dogs uK,save the Children, World Vision, Mind uK and Vasculitis uK. Many of the swimmers, including Alistair, had not been involved
A CHALLENGE
in any form of open water swimming. This is one of the reasons for the intense three months of training that the Flitwick Dolphins Channel Relay Team underwent. The lake at Box End, Kempston was visited by the swimmers in order to get some experience in open water swimming. head coach, Nigel halford also runs training sessions there for any other swimmers who wish to experience swimming in a lake. Alistair outlined his feelings about the first time he embarked on open water training: “My first open water experience was in the lake at Box End on the 20th May 2017. The water temperature was 14 degrees and consequently, on immediately entering the water, i felt it may be my first and last five minutes of open water swimming! Once i got used to the cold i actually quiet enjoyed the experience of open water swimming and haven’t looked back, despite the fact i was a cold, shivering wreck for about 45 minutes after that first swim.” The next challenge presented to the Channel Relay swimmers, was completing their two hour assessment swims in the sea at Dover. The first of the group to pass the assessment swim was Club Captain Katie Tompkins. This involved swimming in sub 16 degree water, for the full two hours. James McFarland reflected on his assessment swim, which he completed two weeks after Katie: “i was still in the middle of my GCsEs but i felt that i needed to go to Dover much earlier than i planned because the sea temperature was rising rapidly. That saturday morning swim was undoubtedly the hardest part of this whole challenge. it became really difficult. i carried on until about 1 hour 45 minutes and then was ready to give up. Thankfully isaac was cheering me on from the beach, and Alistair encouraged me by joining me for the last few minutes! The swimmers spent whole weekends training in Dover, the first of which was the 3rd/4th June. This was a great opportunity for the relay team to gain an understanding for what swimming the channel would involve. in addition to the 15 degree water temperatures proving a struggle for the swimmers, in the words of Alistair
shaw “The boredom was also a big factor to deal with. There are only so many songs you can sing to yourself!” After all of the training and anticipation for when the channel swim may be taking place, the weather added another obstacle for the whole team to overcome. Rough tides, and stormy conditions meant that the pilot had to continuously postpone the relay. until spontaneously on the 24th of July, the go ahead was communicated to members of the Relay Team. The relay took place on the 25th July 2017, not giving the team members much time for preparation!
senior swimmer Tyler Watson (13) outlines the events of the beginning of the crossing, and his experience while swimming the channel. “At 8:54 Alistair set off. The swim had started and after that i had a 5 hour wait until my turn to swim. i was worrying a bit, because there was a big chance that i could be sea sick. After four hours and 50 minutes i got my stuff ready and went to the side of the boat. At 1:54 i heard the horn and jumped in and swam around isaac… my hour had started. During my hour i got stung a few times but other than that not much happened. i carried on swimming until Eloisa got in. i felt, as we all still do, really proud and happy. All of the training paid off and we swam to France in 12 hours and four minutes!” Eloisa Miller had this to say about her experien: “When i got asked if i wanted to swim the channel i immediately said yes. i really wanted to take on the open water challenge and it would be a really good achievement. At the time i felt that it was going to be easy and that i would be able to last for ages in the sea. i didn’t think about the coldness or how it was going to taste or how long i would have to stay in the water. “My first training session in the sea was nothing like i expected it to be. it was a lot colder than i thought and it was choppy. i still went in and tried. i went around the harbour once and as i was coming round, i felt freezing. i wanted to carry on but i couldn’t. i kept trying, i knew i couldn’t let
CHANNEL SWIMMER
anyone down. When i didn’t make the 2 hours it made me more determined to try. When i finally made the two hours i was so happy, i couldn’t believe what i had done. “My part of the channel was probably the disgusting part but however it was i enjoyed every single part of it. My part was in the middle of the channel so i got most of the jellyfish and part of the sewage. i jumped in straight away. i couldn’t waste any time. it was like an ice cube when i jumped in but that didn’t bother me, what bothered me was the jellyfish. Now, in training i hadn’t been stung and i didn’t know what it was like. When you look down you see a dark blue turning into black so you couldn’t see what was underneath you. As soon as it had started i saw a small brown jellyfish underneath me. it scared the life out of me and i went faster. suddenly, i started seeing more and more. They were all different colours and sizes. some were brown, white, and purple while others were black blue and clear. They were scary at first but then they became cool to look at with so many of them. i tried to dodge them but it didn’t quite work. Then i swam into a massive one and found out i didn’t like jellyfish anymore. sadly, my swim came to an end and i had to climb out onto the boat. “When we finished the channel we were so happy and thankful that no one had messed it up. i felt so special and now i can say that i have taken on the ultimate open water challenge – swimming the channel. it was a really good achievement to have accomplished and i will remember this for the rest of my life. Although i only swam for 1 hour i`m glad that i was in a team with really good swimmers. i wonder what my next big challenge will be.”
Another relay swimmer, isaac Moon said that he really enjoyed the swim. “The most challenging bit was finishing on the rocks in France as we had to clamber out and stand behind the water line which was very rocky. i found the training that we did helped me to get used to the cold water, salt water and jellyfish. i am proud of my achievement and the money raised - i would like to raise more so we can help the charities. i’m
FRENCH ROCKS!
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local swimmers
now looking for my next challenge with the team!” Club Captain, Katie Tompkins described the challenge as ‘amazing’ and something that she would consider taking part in again. These sentiments were echoed by Emma Boost who reiterated that it was a real challenge but something that she thoroughly enjoyed. One of the team members was unable to take part in the relay team in July and so Chloe’s attempt at the English Channel Relay team swim was set to take place in september. This was a very different challenge for Chloe because she had not trained with the rest of her relay team, and she had not even met them before she arrived at Dover in the early hours of the morning on the 26th of september. The pilot boat was called ‘Optimist’ which is a fitting name for someone taking on this challenge with an unknown team. Chloe’s describes her experience:“3 Jellyfish and a Dolphin Jenny started our swim from the beach at 2:41am Katy was next to go and then it was me followed by sam. i got my lights attached and my grease on. The reality of the swim became real when i jumped into the cold dark water with only the light on the boat to guide me. After hesitation, i found my stroke and continued for the hour. What seemed like no time at all i was getting ready for my second swim which was a lot more enjoyable as the sun was rising and i was able to see in front of me. My third swim was a lot harder as unfortunately i injured my shoulder, but with a lot of determination and support from my team and crew i
NOVEMBER 2017 MID BEDS BULLETIN — 19
Hat-trick at World Skills
ThREE talented young people will be representing The Bedford College Group in the forthcoming World skills show event in the NEC Birmingham. There they will be competing against the best in the uK. Two computing students from the riverside Cauldwell Campus in Bedford will be taking part: uways Eid, of Luton, was ranked second in the regional competitions for the Network infrastruture Technicians. he is now studying at university. Collette White, also of Luton, was fourth among the same wide area competitions in the iT support Technician category. Of being a student at Bedford College she said: “it’s great to get some real work experience under your belt as part of the extra curricula opportunities offered by the team here.” head of computing Paula hobday said: “We have a great track record of our computing students getting through to the final competitive stages of the World
skills events and have high hopes for 2017.” The third student off to Birmingham is plumber Jonathan Archer, aged 24, of st Neots. Jonathan works for Wintle heating in Northampton and having qualified at the Bedford College Plumbing Technology Centre in Kempston, is now undertaking a Foundation Degree in Building services and sustainability - with a view to moving up the management ladder. Jonathan is a third generation plumber who recognises the advantages that higher Education via Bedford College can offer. “i enjoy my work but may not want to be working hands-on when i am older. in the meantime i am looking forward to the competition.” Bedford College has appeared regularly at the World skills event, being a past sponsor and having students taking part in computing and construction categories.
got through the waves. Once i got out of the sea i was greeted with a cup of tea made by Paul the pilot. The tides started to turn and the waves where against us. A couple of hours of holding on to our bags and thanks to incredible swims from Jenny and Katy it was finally time for the last swim of the relay swam by me. i swam for about 20 minutes with the boat next to me and then “i was told to carry on alone and just head for the shore. swimming alone with no one around me was daunting at first but France was in sight and i knew my team wouldn’t be too far behind. Being able to land the swim was an incredible feeling but being able to finish on a French beach was even more special. A feeling i will never forget”. As the swimmers have neatly summarised, their channel swim was a huge success. The club would like to thank Michelle Watson for putting in such great Collette White. effort, and to all of the coaches for giving up their time during training. Lastly, a huge well done and congratulations must go to the swimmers for taking part in something that is an impossibility for many people! The channel swim team for the ■ Plumbing ■ Carpentry ■ Insurance work two separate and successful attempts consisted of: Tyler ■ Tiling ■ Alterations ■ Free estimates Watson, Alistair shaw, Katie ■ Plastering ■ Kitchens ■ Free call out Tompkins, Eloisa Miller, Chloe ■ Painting & decorating ■ Bathrooms ■ Free advice Ford, isaac Moon, James McFarland and Emma Boost, with Nigel halford and ian Murray as their coaches and Demi Narang YOUR LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS taking part in the training . Tel: 01767 314445 / 07802 530951 James Handler Email: dayalan60@googlemail.com Press Officer, FDSC
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A. J. DAY
20 — MID BEDS BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2017
TO WHOM THE LIGHT SHINES THROUGH
All saints’ Day (1st November) is a very special day for me. This festival of the church when we celebrate all God’s saints, living and departed, was the dedication of two churches that have played an important part in my life. i grew up worshipping at All saints’, Ealing Common which was built as a memorial to spencer Perceval the Prime Minister who was assassinated in 1812. Later i was Vicar of All saints’, Rotherham, a wonderful sixteenth century minster church in the centre of the town. At both places the marking of All saints’ Day was special, especially the joyful singing of ‘For all the saints’. For all the saints who from their labours rest, Who Thee by faith before the world confess, Thy name, O Jesus, be forever blest, Alleluia! Alleluia!
HELP STAMP OUT HATE CRIME
“i’ve been delighted to lend my support to National hate Crime Awareness Week (14 – 21 October) led by the charity, stop hate uK. “i have been only too pleased to quite literally sign up to Bedfordshire Police’s campaign, in which the public put their names to campaign posters, signing to state clearly that there is no place for prejudice in this county as it can be devastating to be picked on because of your faith, race, gender, sexuality or as a result of a disability. “sadly, hate Crime is one of easiest crimes to commit because it can be as simple as shouting foul abuse. however, it can cause a deep wound that not only terrifies the victim, but divides and builds walls of suspicion between communities. “As PCC, i’m delighted to confirm that i encounter examples, almost daily, of our communities living in a tolerant and harmonious way together. unfortunately, there is a small minority
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View from the Rt Revd
Richard Atkinson
The Bishop of Bedford
But who are these saints? The definition i like best comes as a story. A school class are being shown round the local parish church. The Vicar is pointing out the various parts of the church and its furnishings. he talks about the altar, the pulpit, and much else besides. Finally he comes to the great east window which is filled with impressions of the apostles and other holy people. it is a bright sunny day and the light is streaming through the window. Later that day one of the children
Update from the
Police & Crime Commissioner by Kathryn Holloway
whose prejudice and bigotry are voiced through abuse which amounts to hate Crime. “Bedfordshire Police has zero tolerance of such behaviour, which is why it has a dedicated sergeant to lead on the subject of hate crime. sergeant James hart works closely with councils, local charities, business and faith organisations to raise awareness and educate people to better understand the impact of hate crime on victims. “One of these charities is the Anne Frank Trust. The Trust works closely with schools
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tells her mother about the visit to the church and says to her: ‘i know who the saints are’. ‘Oh, yes’ replies her mother, ‘who are they?’ The girl responds, ‘They are those whom the light shines through’. it is easy to think that the saints are the great and the good holy people down the ages; that the saints are the twelve apostles and others canonised by the church. They are important, not least as compelling examples of faithfulness to God. however, they are not the whole story for God’s saints are all those, living and departed, through whom the light of Christ shines. They are those who are loved by God and know God’s love in their lives. st Paul writing to the church in Rome writes, To all in Rome, who are loved by God and called to be saints. This All saints’ Day let us celebrate the light in other people, and ask that God’s light may shine through us. across Bedfordshire, as well as the rest of the uK, to teach pupils the story of Anne Frank and her murder in a Nazi death camp and demonstrate through Anne’s tragedy how devastating hate directed towards a single group can become. “i decided to fund the charity’s work because hate crime is a problem not just in our county, but nationally. Young people are our future and we pass the baton on to them to change the world – which is why it is so important they learn of Anne Frank and the message to challenge prejudice. “During hate Crime Awareness Week, members of my office and representatives of Bedfordshire Police were privileged to hear from Eva Clarke, who was born in a concentration camp during World War Two. The camps claimed most of her family and she was never able to meet her father as he was murdered before she was born. hate crime doesn’t just cause offence, it robs people of the chance of a life away from fear. it is a battle we must win, but we need everyone in Bedfordshire to challenge prejudice all day, every day until we do.
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New Houghton Hall visitor centre opens
A BRAND new Visitor Centre at houghton hall Park in houghton Regis has opened its doors thanks to a £2.1m National Lottery grant from the heritage Lottery Fund (hLF) and the Big Lottery Fund, together with funding from Central Bedfordshire Council and houghton Regis Town Council. The brand new visitor centre is situated in the historic eighteenth century parkland of houghton hall. The fully accessible centre is home to two meeting rooms, a discovery and learning corner, as well as a fully equipped café offering a wide range of drinks, light bites and meals to cater for all tastes. The centre forms part of the wider houghton hall Park Renaissance and Renewal Project. The project has also restored the formal garden adjacent to houghton hall, reinstated the kitchen garden, provided easy-access paths and installed innovative natural play equipment around the park, making houghton hall Park a great destination for all of the family. Councillor ian Dalgarno, Executive Member for Community services, said: “it has been a real team effort with lots of challenges. it’s down to the hard work, creativity, and the help of some fantastic people that we have this beautiful visitor centre. We are looking forward to holding a large family event in May as a celebration for the full project when the planting is starting to bloom, but we didn’t want to delay the opportunity for the local community to enjoy the visitor facilities.” Winter opening hours are now in operation: 10:00am – 3:00pm on weekdays, and 9:00am – 3:00pm on weekends. JuNiOR section at Flitwick Boys looked forward to seeing some of part of the Churches anniversary Brigade have continued to tick off them in the council chamber in Celebrations. They welcome their 100 challenges for the cente- years to come. James Charlesworth & Co from LOCAL PEOPLE nary of the age group. They have Competition wise Juniors have the midlands who have a range of learned about BB across the had football and Company and musical styles from Rock to i AM Natalie, i have been a world, and how to say hello in seniors National 10 pin Bowling – Reggae and including some Folk. qualified beauty therapist for 22 more than 10 different languages but no trophies won yet this ses- Concert is FREE but there will be a collection for Children in Need. years. i have worked in various and tried some home cooked sion. To keep in touch with all news so why not come along to Flitwick 5H health farms, country Chinese Food. manors and health spas. i proCloser to home they have been about Flitwick Boys Brigade Methodist Church on saturday vide quality tailored treatments thinking about the local area and please like us on Facebook or fol- 18th November from 7pm for an evening of live music. in the comfort of your own welcomed the Mayor of Flitwick low us on twitter. For information on joining home. Cllr Gareth Mackay one evening Then on sunday, 19 November i pride myself making my to find out more about being please call 01525 720506 at 10:30 am celebrations will conclients feel pampered, relaxed Mayor. tinue with All Age Worship led by Church Anniversary and rejuvenated using only the Mr Michael Carr and again at 6:00 The boys were fascinated with highest quality products. pm when our own minister Rev the chain worn by the Mayor and Celebrations What better way to unwind Cllr Mackay encouraged the boys FLiTWiCK Methodist and Graham Claydon-Knights conafter a hard day’s work than to play their part in the community Flitwick Boys Brigade together cludes our weekend of celebragoing home and having your as they got older and said he are hosting a Gospel Concert as tions. own personal therapist come to the house and pamper you? Or why not have a girls’ night in and have a group of you pampered and polished over a few glasses of wine? All you need to provide is yourself – the rest will To find out more visit: www.rosettapublishing.com be taken care of by Natalie’s or call 07724 905406 Beauty Therapy 07507 988094
Boys’ Brigade welcomes Mayor
– Natalie Roskilly
The Bulletin series reaches over 25,000 homes and businesses across central Bedfordshire
22 — MID BEDS BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2017
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Celebrating county’s foster carers
A CELEBRATiON and awards event has taken place to highlight the work and achievements of Central Bedfordshire Council’s foster carers. The Celebration of Fostering event was held at Woburn safari Park on sunday, 24 september and saw 70 foster carers and their families come together with council staff and elected members to celebrate the valuable work they do. Long-service awards were presented to 15 foster carers and couples who have clocked up an amazing 120 years’ service between them. There were also five individual awards handed out to those who have gone above and beyond for the children they have welcomed into their homes. The Outstanding Contribution to Fostering Award went to Kay Mills Above (left to right): Richard Carr, Chief Executive at CBC; Diane and Tony Wesley, of Luton who Humberstone; Richard Bollen; Cllr Carole Hegley, Executive Member received five separate nominations. for Social Care & Housing. Kay and Tony were praised for the way they help children to develop – with the Fabulous Foster Carers went to Brenda Drummond, of Luton even when they have left their care to Award for the work they have done who cared for a teenager with return to their birth families. One with their two foster children over Asperger syndrome and communinominee said: “They encompass the past 15 months. in that time the cation difficulties for over three everything that foster carers can be. children’s health, confidence and years. During that time Brenda They provide exemplary care for the education have improved. They have helped the teenager secure excellent children in their care, enjoying and also helped the children celebrate grades in her GCsEs, attend sixthembracing their individuality and the their heritage and supported them to form college and successfully gain a significance of their birth family.” remain in contact with their birth place at university. university student Ryan savic, of families. The long-service awards saw Leighton Buzzard received the The Brilliant Family and Friends nine five-year awards, four ten-year special sons and Daughters Award Foster Carers Award winners awards, a 15-year award and a 20for helping and supporting his moth- Tonicha and Louis Gunnell, of Kings year award presented. some of the er during a difficult year and for Lynn, won their award for the way recipients were: warmly welcoming the girl they are they always put their two foster chil- 20-year award: Liz Stone (Milton fostering into the family. Keynes) dren first and focus on their needs. The Outstanding Contribution to 15-year award: Linda and David Diane humberstone and Richard Foster (Luton) Bollen, of stotfold were presented Children with Disabilities Award
Ten-year award: Gill and Mick Hall (Luton) Sarah Hill (Milton Keynes) Hayley and Chris Lane (Dunstable) Five-year award: Tina and Carl Rowlands (Rushden) Heidi and Jason Livings (sandy) Bobbie and Jonathan Goodson (Dunstable) Angela and Simon Ellis (Leighton Buzzard) Katrina and Richard Armstrong (Ampthill) Councillor Carole hegley, Executive Member for social Care and housing, was among those to present the awards. she said: “We had an amazing 41 nominations for awards this year and it wasn’t an easy job to pick a winner in each category. “All of our foster carers deserve massive thanks and praise for the work which they do with the children in their care. These are children who, for whatever reason, haven’t had the easiest start in life but we have had just a few examples of how our foster carers’ amazing work and dedication help these children to go on and accomplish so much. “if that has inspired you and you feel you could help to give a child or children a second chance in life then please get in touch with our fostering team, as they’d love to hear from you.” if you would like more information or an informal chat about fostering, call the Central Bedfordshire Fostering team on 0300 300 8181 or email fostering@centralbedford shire.gov.uk
The more you know the more you see
sAFEGuARDiNG professionals joined together to attend the first-ever Bedfordshire Against CsE conference on child sexual exploitation which particularly focused on how to protect young people from online grooming. The one-day conference was an initiative between Bedford Borough Council, Luton Borough Council, Central Bedfordshire Council, Bedfordshire Police and Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire and Luton safeguarding Children’s Boards – as part of the ongoing county-wide campaign ‘The More You Know, The More You see’, which launched in 2015. The conference’s hosts for the day were David Moss, a member of Luton’s care leavers’ information panel and Lisa Robinson, CsE Coordinator for Bedfordshire. speakers on the day included sammy Woodhouse, survivor of the Rotherham abuse scandal, who advised delegates that there was
The conference’s hosts David Moss and Lisa Robinson, standing alongside Sammy Woodhouse (centre).
too much victim blaming and that survivors of abuse should be treated as individuals. Lorin La Fave, mother of Breck Bedner, who was groomed via the internet and murdered by someone he met online. Lorin talked about the importance of teaching young people to look out for the signs of exploitation and grooming. Richard Denton, Children and Young
Persons Development Co-ordinator for Bedfordshire Police, gave an input on how to keep children safe online, and the university of Bedfordshire delivered a session on how to improve the way in which police and partner agencies engage with young people. Detective superintendent Nick Bellingham, from the Bedfordshire Police Public Protection unit, said: “Child sexual exploitation is a very real issue and it’s happening in Bedfordshire. it’s important that we work together to help tackle it and events such as this are a fantastic way of raising awareness and educating each other so that we can better protect the young people of Bedfordshire. “The conference was a very impactful and insightful, and an important step forward in our fight against CsE.” Anyone with any concerns for a young person’s safety or who would like any general advice on the topic of child sexual exploitation, please visit: www.bedfordshireagainstcse.org
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NOVEMBER IN THE GARDEN – by Maureen Catlin
Berried treasure
N OuR gardens we can surely find some berried treasures. Plants that produce berries in the autumn are so valuable for us and wildlife and autumn is a really good time to plant these in your garden. some can be grown in tubs but many are better grown in the border or veg patch to achieve maximum crops. The birds will also eat the berries that we find so tasty. if you are growing any soft berry fruits it is vital that you provide some protection. A fruit cage is the ideal solution which allows easy maintenance of the crops and easy picking at harvest. support this with a ground irrigation system like Drip or seeper hose and you will get amazing crops of vitamin rich berries to eat fresh or freeze to use in winter. This initial outlay will pay for itself time and again. For example you should expect at least 0.5 to 1 kg of fruit per raspberry cane per year. i have seen raspberries in the supermarkets priced £1.99 for 20 berries! so raspberries are really worth growing. For early and midseason varieties i like Glen Proven and Tulleman and for autumn fruiting Joan J or Autumn Bliss. But wait there’s a new kid on the block, Ruby Beauty is the world’s first compact variety. it is summer fruiting, the canes are short and stout so no need for support wires. it will even grow in a large pot. late summer and autumn. Blueberries are another very productive berry. Trees like Cotoneaster hybridus Pendula it is recommended that you plant 3 plants have pillar box red berries and Cotoneaster together to get good pollination and large Exburiensis has bunches of creamy yellow yields. Grow in lime free compost and feed berries. Malus have small orange, red and with ericaceous feed as they like acidic soil. Blueberries grow very well in containers. Chandler and sunshine Blue are both recommended varieties. Blackcurrants, Ben sarek and Ben Lomond thornless blackberries, Loch Tay and Karaka Blue are easy to grow and have very heavy yields.
I
Another new introduction is Justaberry. it is a cross between blackcurrant and gooseberry with black shiny sweet fruits the size of gooseberries. Lots of decorative plants produce berries in the autumn and are a great source of winter food for our feathered friends. The flowers that produce the berries are also a great source of pollen and nectar for pollinating insects in
yellow apple like fruits. in the hedge rows we find hawthorn, Crataegus, and Elderberry, sambucus but there are more decorative varieties to plant in our gardens. Crataegus Crimson Cloud has bright pink flowers with a white centre and red berries while sambucus Black Beauty has deep purple foliage, pink flowers and shiny black berries and looks great planted with yellow the foliage of Choisya sundance. sorbus Aucuparia, Mountain Ash, has glistening red berries like redcurrants while other varieties like sorbus Pink Pergola and sorbus Discolor have pink and cream berries accordingly. Euonymus Red Cascade has very interesting clusters of pinky red fruits which open exposing the
creamy yellow seeds. Morus Niger, the Mulberry Tree has sweet black berries that are enjoyed by us and the birds. it also grows into an interesting gnarled shaped small tree. Pyracantha is a shrub covered in either red orange or yellow berries from september. it makes a very good security hedge or wall shrub. Rosa Moyesii Geranium produces deep red and orange heps which contain the seeds, hypericum Magical White is a low growing shrub with glistening white berries while hypericum Rheingold’s are orange pink and red. Callicarpa is another small shrub with amazing light purple berries. Viburnum and Mahonia have blue black berries. Two plants that hold their berries very late into winter are holly and ivy. ilex J. C. Van Tol is a variety of holly that will berry if planted alone. ivy is a great source of late pollen and nectar and has black berries. so take a look around your garden, find those berried treasures and bury a few more for extra colour in the latter part of the gardening year.
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TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
out & about the grove theatre A Celebration of John Denver On 12 October 1997, the world of country music was rocked by the death of one of the greatest writers and performers to ever grace a stage with just a microphone and a guitar. Now is your chance to relive the legend in A Celebration of John Denver at the Grove Theatre, Dunstable on Friday 10 November at 7.30pm. John Denver was just 53 years old when his twin-engine plane plunged into the sea of the Californian coast. While most know some of his wonderful uplifting
7.30pm Friday Nov 10
Danesborough Chorus
Danesborough Chorus starts its 43rd season with a collection of classics in a joint concert with the Milton Keynes Chorale at Milton Keynes Theatre, on sunday 19th November at 7.30 pm, when the choirs will perform Brahms’ German Requiem Ein deutsches Requiem. The programme will also include Mahler’s Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen and Grieg’s Peer Gynt suite No 1. “Containing some of the most expressive music in the whole choral repertoire, the Brahms Requiem is
BEDFORD ORGAN & KEYBOARD CLUB THE ADDISON CENTRE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
CHRIS POWELL IN CONCERT
WEDS 29 NOVEMBER 7.30 – 10.00pm –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Members £5 PAY AT Non-Members £6 DOOR –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Contact: 01234 344423 www/Organfax/clubs/Bedford
music, fewer know the full extent of his humanitarian activities that encompassed ending hunger, supporting human rights and creating a healthy, sustainable environment. But his music is the sound of legacy. Wayne Denton as John Denver transports an audience back to a time of innocence and fun when country music filled the airwaves of every radio station around the globe. Wayne has stated, “despite being an entertainer and winning New Faces as a vocalist in my own right, it was always the music of Denver which was my first passion and i think it’s fair to say he was a hugely influencing factor on my career”. Country Roads: A Celebration of John Denver consists of Wayne
an inspiring mix of rich harmonies and flowing tunes” says conductor ian smith. “it is also unusual in taking its texts from the German Luther Bible as scriptural passages instead of the traditional Latin Mass. The choirs will need their customary vocal stamina, and also an ability to express the gentleness of some of the thought-provoking movements.” Brahms started composing his German Requiem in 1865, although the final seven-movement work did not have its first performance until 1869 in Leipzig. in contrast to the Roman Catholic Mass which begins with prayers for the dead (“Grant them eternal rest, O Lord”), Brahms’ German Requiem focuses on the living, beginning with the text “Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted” from the Beatitudes in st Matthew’s gospel. The concert will be conducted by ian smith and accompanied by the Milton Keynes City Orchestra. The soloists are internationallyacclaimed soprano Carolyn sampson and leading opera baritone Marcus Farnsworth who will sing Mahler’s beautiful song-cycle Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen (songs of a Wayfarer). The ever-popular Peer Gynt suite No 1 has been used in many TV adverts, from the opening movement, ‘Morning’, to ‘in the hall of the Mountain King’, which is remembered by many as the Alton Towers theme tune.
Box Office: 01582 60 20 80 (opt 7) Book Online: www.grovetheatre.co.uk
Denton performing as John Denver; backed by Phil Walker playing guitar, percussion and harmony vocals and ian Kimber playing piano, keyboards and percussion; enhanced with video footage throughout the performance. This tribute show traces the early and late music of Denver including the legendary hits, Country Roads, Annie’s song, Grandma’s Feather Bed and Leaving on a Jet Plane to name but a few.
Feeling Good: A Celebration of the Music of Michael Bublé Whether his charming tone serenades you throughout the year, or his Christmas album is the sound of your festive season, Michael Bublé is sure to have graced your ears and soothed your soul at some point. Now it’s your time to celebrate one of the most important and successful male artists of recent decades, with Feeling Good: A Celebration of the Music of Michael Bublé at the Grove Theatre, Dunstable on Thursday 23 November at 7.30pm.
7.30pm Thurs Nov 23
Mitchell Rutter, one of the uK’s premiere Michael Bublé impersonators, is taking you on a musical journey from Michael’s beginnings, to hitting the big time. The show features hits including home, haven’t Met You Yet, The Way You Look Tonight, Come Fly With Me, Cry Me A River, save The Last Dance, and of course, Feeling Good.
T∗Rextasy T.Rextasy, presented by sweeney Entertainments, has been performing all over the world for 25 years, a career that ironically out-lives Marc’s very own T.Rex. in 2017, the band returns to venues across the uK to transport audiences back to the 70s for the Marc Bolan 40th commemorative anniversary tour.
7.30pm Fri November 17
Marc Bolan, with his band T.Rex, was one of the most flamboyant and charismatic stars of the original glam rock era. With Bolan’s special ingredient of Rocka-Boogie songs throughout the 1970s including ‘Telegram sam’ and ‘Jeepster’ he was able to obtain what would be yet another Top 20 record in 1976 that has since become one of the most memorable and everlasting signature tunes, ‘i Love to Boogie’. Accepted as the world’s only official live tribute band dedicated to Marc Bolan & T.Rex, and the only band endorsed and approved by Marc Bolan’s family, estate, original ex-members of T.Rex, and Bolan’s catalogue management, T.Rextasy have been described by many as ‘beyond the boundaries of tribute’. The skilled musicianship of Danielz (Vocals & Lead Guitar), Neil Cross (Rhythm Guitars, Backing Vocals), Rob Butterfield (Bass Guitar, Backing Vocals) and John skelton (Drums) lets the timeless music and legacy of Marc Bolan and T.Rex live on, performing everything from 20th Century Boy to Children of the Revolution and Telegraph sam to hot Love with superb authenticity.
The Illegal Eagles Often acclaimed as the world’s official no.1 Eagles tribute, The illegal Eagles return to the stage celebrating their own incredible 20 years of uK & international touring! They’ll Take it to the Limit at Grove Theatre, Dunstable on Friday 24 November at 7.30pm. This seasoned group of talented musicians are true Eagles fans at heart. Members Phil Aldridge, Al Vosper, Trevor Newnham, Garreth hicklin, Greg Webb, and latest addition Christian Phillips’ impressive mastery of the Eagles distinctive sound has made them one of the most sought after shows of their kind in the world. For their special 20th Anniversary Tour, The illegal Eagles bring you their strongest and most popular show to date. Performing all the classic Eagles hits including hotel California, Take it Easy, Lyin’ Eyes, Take it to the Limit, Life in the Fast Lane, Desperado and many more!
7.30pm Friday Nov 24
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
Alice in the Cuckoo’s Nest Central Bedfordshire libraries are delighted to welcome back the professional and highly innovative Librarian Theatre with their new production, Alice in the Cuckoo’s Nest. The play, written by Tom Cuthbertson, is inspired by Lewis Carroll’s classic novel Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and explores the theme of psychosis in the world of Alice’s library. This highly physical production
Librarian Theatre tour
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will have a dynamic cast of four portraying all of the characters, and a minimal set design allowing the show to be performed among the library bookshelves. As with all Librarian Theatre productions this play is familyfriendly. however it is not a children’s show and will explore adult themes of mental health. Children aged 8 and over are welcome to attend the performance if accompanied by an adult. Alice in the Cuckoo’s Nest will be performed in the following libraries: • Tuesday 21 November at Biggleswade Library • Wednesday 22 November at
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Toddington Library • Thursday 23 November at Dunstable Library • Friday 24 November at Flitwick Library • saturday 10 February 2018 at shefford Library The performance will start at 7.30pm. Doors open at 7.15pm. The
show last one hour and there is no interval but refreshments will be available at the library after the performance. Tickets cost: adults £7.50, concessions £6.50. Tickets can be bought in the host libraries or via the Librarian Theatre website at www.librariantheatre.com
26 — MID BEDS BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2017
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
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28 — MID BEDS BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2017
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com
Caritas Harmony Choir Presents
A CHRISTMAS GALA CONCERT 6pm Sunday 10 December 2017 St Mary’s R.C. Church West Street, Dunstable, LU6 1NY This concert is given in support of The Dunstable Mayor’s Charities for 2017-2018 Adults £10 at GET TICKETS www.caritasharmony.co.uk or from Jackie Howe on 01582 599520 Refreshments available from 5pm
FLOOTES 18 Market Place Woburn MK17 9PZ
Champagne Gosset Tasting Tuesday 14th November from 7.00pm to 10.00pm Pre-booked ticketing only: £20 per person
After the success of last years tasting we are giving you the chance to once again experience the magnificence of Gosset. If you were unable to attend last time now is your chance to sample the range and discover the subtle variations and winemaking skills that marque out a great Champagne house. If you attended last year, there will be some examples that were not shown previously! Call 01525 290042, email info@flootes.com or call in-store to book
Christmas Fair British Red Cross Bedfordshire,
Saturday 25thth November 2017, 10.00am – 4pm,
Entry Fee £4 Programme will include demonstrations, tastings & book signings. Full details will be publicised closer to the event date. Live performances by Local School Choirs. Stalls selling superb, quality items & many handmade gifts & products. Homemade cakes, refreshments, raffle, tombola & much more.
The Great Hall, Bedford Boys School, Burnaby Road, off De Parys Ave., Bedford, MK40 2TU. Parking/disabled parking available.
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30 — MID BEDS BULLETIN NOVEMBER 2017
TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952
–––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––– MiD BEDs ART sOCiETY MUSIC ON THURSDAYS THE AUTUMN Júlia Pusker violin and Renáta Konyicska piano EXHIBITION
starts the month’s activities on the weekend of 4/5 November Maulden Village Hall. The evening meeting features another demo by charcoal portrait artist stan hurr, and our saturday session is an untutored Painting day. Visitors are very welcome at all these events and details of dates, times, venues are given below. NOVEMBER 4/5 AuTuMN ExhiBiTiON Maulden Village hall, 10-4 pm each day NOVEMBER 15 A charcoal Portraits demo with stan hurr followed by a xmas social NOVEMBER 18 Painting-in day - any medium, any subject, no tuition DEMONsTRATiON st Nicholas Church hall Church Road, Barton-le-Clay, 7.15pm - 9.30pm. Visitors £5 at the door. PAiNTiNG iN DAY Village hall, hexton Road, Bartonle-Clay, from 10 am-4 pm. Visitors £8. Pre-booking essential; please contact vivianne.callow@hotmail.co.uk or call 01525 712735. FuRThER iNFORMATiON is available on our website at www.midbedsart.co.uk BEDFORDshiRE FAMiLY hisTORY sOCiETY Friday 3rd November 7.15p.m.
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INTERESTED IN FAMILY HISTORY?
Then come along to the next monthly talk on ‘Bedford’s Architectural Heritage – Lost & Saved By David Fowler held in the Drama Hall of Mark Rutherford School, Wentworth Drive, Bedford MK41 8PX Members free, visitors £1. www.bfhs.org.uk
7.45pm, Thursday 16 November Bedford School Music Recital Hall Tickets £18, students 18-24 £5, under 18 £2 on the door or from 01234 261811 www.bedfordmusicclub.co.uk ThE FRiENDs OF sT MARY’s ChuRCh MAuLDEN present
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BEDFORD TOWN CONCERT BRASS BAND 7.30pm Saturday 2 December Tickets are £10 including first glass of wine. There will be an excellent raffle and you will be entertained with songs from films, musicals and popular band tunes - the second half of the evening songs to get everyone in the Christmas spirit - including audience participation! We are a registered charity who maintain the fabric of this beautiful building (Reg. No. 296924)
Do come and join us for a great way to begin your Christmas season. Ring 01525 840200 or 01525 403551 or email: wilsons_64@btinternet.com.
–––––––––––––––––––––––– GENTLE TOUCH HEALING We are holding an Open Day to celebrate our 20th Anniversary. Sunday 19th November Event based at our Healing Centre at the Wrest Park Enterprise House, Wrest Park, Silsoe MK45 4HS From 11:00 am to 4:00 pm Free admission - all are welcome Free healing from our team of healers Free holistic Therapy advice Refreshments will be provided BEDFORD NATiONAL TRusT AssOCiATiON November meeting 28th November at 2.00 for 2.30 Addison Centre, Kempston
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a talk by Paul Nicholson There will be a small entry fee. Tea and biscuits from 2.00 Everyone welcome For further information contact Betty Thomas on 01480 860 421 or go to the web site www.bedfordnt.org.uk
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‘STATUES IN BEDFORD’
BEDFORD LOCAL GROuP OF ThE WiLDLiFE TRusT Wednesday 8th November 2017 Meeting 7-15 for 7-30pm
BEDFORD RsPB LOCAL GROuP Meet at ARA club, Manton Lane Bedford MK41 7PF. 7.30pm Thursday November 16 Jo Thomas presents
at Westoning Village hall Saturday 11th November from 10:30am to 3:30pm. Variety of craft stalls, Grand Draw, Light Lunches, Cakes etc. FREE ENTRY
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An illustrated talk about this new reserve and development by katie King, a Wildlife Trust staff member Priory Methodist Church Hall, Newnham Avenue, Bedford MK41 9QJ All welcome, no charge but voluntary contributions are appreciated. Further details available under Events on www.wildlifebcn.org or at 01234 266057
‘RUSHDEN LAKES’
Jo runs the travel company ‘Wild about Travel’ and has a vast & interesting knowledge of india’s spectacular wildlife. suitable for Experts and Novices, RsPB membership not essential. Entrance fee, group members £1 Guest £2 Annual group membership £5 www.rspb.org.uk/groups/bedford
‘BIRDS OF INDIA’
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